How can we fix the labor market?
Total jobs in North Carolina are actually 6% higher today than immediately before the pandemic, but are 25% less than the state’s economic expansion. There are two job openings for every unemployed person. Read More
NC SPIN Posts by Michael Walden
50,000 could lose jobs in a 2023 recession
Inflation will moderate to around 4 percent by year's end, however the Fed's continued interest rate increases will bring a mild recession. Read More
A little good news from North Carolina's leading economic index
A seasoned North Carolina economist says our economy is slowing down, however if there is a recession next year it will likely be mild. Read More
Can economics help you survive 2023?
Some real ways to help you through the coming year. You choose the options best for you and your family. Read More
Will 2023 be naughty or nice?
2022 has been a rough year. Even though the supply chain is improving, the Fed still thinks consumer spending is running too hot. But is a recession in our future? Read More
Is economics about more than inflation and jobs?
Some psychologists say humans are naturally wired to focus more on potential bad outcomes than on good ones, which explains the current concerns about inflation and recession. Read More
If inflation subsides does that mean everything is ok?
Lowering inflation does not mean that prices will be lowered. What matters for your standard of living is the purchasing power of your salary. Read More
Can we cut back?
What can we do if there are further strains on the economy? Read More
Is manufacturing making a comeback?
In the late 70s manufacturing accounted for almost 33 percent of the economic output in our state. Today it is about 16 percent but there is evidence it is having a resurgence. Read More
Do we need more economic "pain" in order to achieve economic "gain?"
The WIN campaign in the 1970s demonstrated how difficult it is to motivate a majority of people to change their behaviors on their own without strong incentives. Read More
