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Guest: Lisette IJssel de Schepper | Chief Economist at the Bureau for Economic Research Africa Melane speaks to Lisette IJssel de Schepper, Chief Economist at the Bureau for Economic Research, about South Africa’s Fitch credit rating upgrade, what has driven the improvement in fiscal credibility, and what still needs to happen for the country to move the remaining two notches toward investment grade amid weak growth and global economic uncertainty. Early Breakfast with Africa Melane is 702’s and CapeTalk’s early morning talk show. Experienced broadcaster Africa Melane brings you the early morning news, sports, business, and interviews politicians and analysts to help make sense of the world. He also enjoys chatting to guests in the lifestyle sphere and the Arts. All the interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen.Thank you for listening to this podcast from Early Breakfast with Africa Melane For more about the show click https://buff.ly/XHry7eQ and find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/XJ10LBUListen live on weekdays between 04:00 and 06:00 (SA Time) to the Early Breakfast with Africa Melane broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3NSubscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetcFollow us on social media:702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalkCapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalkCapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While guest hosting Mundo in the Morning on KCMO Talk Radio, Patrick Tuohey is joined by Elias Tsapelas, Director of State Budget and Fiscal Policy at the Show-Me Institute, to discuss the Missouri legislature's effort to begin the process of eliminating the income tax. They break down why Missouri's tax climate is holding back economic and population growth, how a gradual phase-out could work, and why concerns about sales tax rates may be overblown. Listen to the full show: https://www.kcmotalkradio.com/shows/mundo-in-the-morning-2/
Mother Horse Eyes Part 2 - Flesh Portal Nightmare Continues | Nephilim Death Squad PodcastDavid Lee Corbo (The Raven), Top Lobsta, and Mattt return for the unhinged continuation of the Mother Horse Eyes saga in this wild Nephilim Death Squad episode. Dive deep into the grotesque flesh interface horrors: Iwo Jima's volcanic nightmares, the Manson Family desert pussy portal, Michael Jackson's propofol-fueled REM suppression, North Korean whale frequency experiments in underground facilities, and the tree of life revelation that changes everything.Plus chaotic banter on boomer life in The Villages, Owen Benjamin's savage Baby Boomerville song, Peter Thiel and Silicon Valley “Christians,” the Book of Revelation, Antichrist tech, biblical prophecy, Neil deGrasse Tyson memes, and nonstop roast sessions. If you love conspiracy horror, creepypasta, anomalous phenomena, biblical deep dives, and no-filter podcast chaos — this is your episode.Like if the flesh portal stories broke your brain Subscribe and hit the bell for more Nephilim Death Squad madness Support the show & get early/ad-free episodes + private communities: patreon.com/NephilimDeathSquadMerch & discount codes: TopLobsta.com0:00 – Intro, Ancient Ones Quote & Welcome Back3:50 – Patreon Plug, Merch, Discord & Community Reminder8:15 – Twitter Ban Story + Craig's Dead Mom Roast Session13:40 – Tucker Carlson Nephilim Episode + Timothy Alberino Suggestion19:05 – Nancy Banter (“Mother” Jokes & Violence Scale)24:30 – Mother Horse Eyes Part 2 Begins – Iwo Jima Recap30:10 – Michael Jackson Propofol & REM Suppression Story37:45 – Reaction to MJ + Kanye Nitrous / Whippets Tangent46:20 – Owen Benjamin “Baby Boomerville” Song (Full Play & Breakdown)55:40 – Boomer Villages Deep Dive + “World's Ending When I Die”1:07:25 – Fiscal Policy, Great Reset & Boomer Money Talk1:16:50 – Mother Horse Eyes – Manson Family Desert Flesh Portal (Pussy in the Arroyo)1:26:10 – Duncan Trussell / Peter Thiel / Book of Revelation Clip1:33:40 – Antichrist Tech, Elon Musk, Prophecy & Judgment Discussion1:42:15 – Mother Horse Eyes – North Korea Whale Frequency Facility1:48:50 – Final Thoughts, Tree of Life Reveal & Outro Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nephilim-death-squad--6389018/support.☠️ Nephilim Death Squad — New episodes 5x/week.Join our Patreon for early access, bonus shows & the private Telegram hive.Subscribe on YouTube & Rumble, follow @NephilimDSquad on X/Instagram, grab merch at toplobsta.com. Questions/bookings: chroniclesnds@gmail.com — Stay dangerous.
President Donald Trump will host a cabinet meeting at the White House on Wednesday, after first announcing that the meeting would take place at Camp David. The president on Tuesday postponed the cabinet meeting at Camp David based on possible bad weather conditions.An American journalist and the son of a Texas Republican politician has been charged with acting as a Chinese agent. Court records show Thomas Pauken II was allegedly paid at least $100,000 for selling intelligence to the Chinese Communist Party.Vice President JD Vance hosts a roundtable with state attorneys general on anti-fraud efforts. Kurt Couchman, senior fellow in Fiscal Policy at Americans for Prosperity, joins NTD to discuss.
05-26-2026 David Walker Learn more about the interview and get additional links here: https://usabusinessradio.com/leading-fiscal-policy-expert-provides-us-economy-a-physical/ Subscribe to the best of our content here: https://priceofbusiness.substack.com/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCywgbHv7dpiBG2Qswr_ceEQ
Jason Mercier of Mountain States Policy Center compares Washington's weakening job growth and expanding regulatory burden against Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming — states that rank among the nation's lowest for taxes and regulation. Former Democratic Governor Chris Gregoire's warning about overspending adds sharp bipartisan weight to the contrast. https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/opinion/opinion-state-policies-matter-for-taxpayers-and-the-business-climate/ #FiscalPolicy #WashingtonState #BusinessClimate #TaxBurden #MountainStatesPolicyCenter #IdahoEconomy #MontanaEconomy #Opinion #Columns #ClarkCountyToday
If you want to get the skinny on anything related to financial markets or the financial system, then you need to talk with Samim Ghamami, Chief Economist of the New York state Insurance Fund. That's what Mark and Cris do on this podcast. The conversation begins with the outlook for interest rates, turns to a perspective on a popular AI narrative that artificial intelligence will push rates up further by spurring investment and reducing household savings, and closes with a timely look at private credit and the risks it may pose to the broader financial system. Check out the report mentioned in this episode titled, "Private Credit & Systemic Risk" by Samim Ghamani, Damien Moore, Antonio Weiss, Martin Wurm, and Mark Zandi: Click Here. Questions or Comments, please email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Liz Ann Sonders and Collin Martin discuss hotter-than-expected inflation data, with volatile energy prices playing a central role. Because the Fed can't directly influence oil prices, inflation staying above target likely keeps policy on hold, with rate cuts off the table for now and even the possibility of hikes if core inflation or labor strength accelerates. They also explore how consumers feel inflation differently than economists measure it, contributing to weak sentiment despite still-positive economic growth. Real incomes are slipping, but spending remains supported, helped in part by strong AI-driven business investment. Then, Liz Ann and Collin cover the growing dominance of AI: it's propping up GDP, earnings expectations, and capital spending, but also introducing concentration risks and shifting corporate financing toward debt. In the bond market, strong demand has kept credit spreads tight, though potential risks include oversupply and uncertain long-term returns on AI investments. Collin Martin also highlights rising Treasury yields, especially the 10-year, and the role of the “term premium” in a more uncertain, higher-inflation world. This shift is contributing to a negative correlation between stocks and bonds, which is a dynamic more reminiscent of earlier, more volatile inflation regimes. Finally, Collin and Liz Ann look ahead to next week's upcoming macroeconomic indicators and key data releases. On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important Disclosures This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The securities, investment products and investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy. Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors. Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk. Currencies are speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors. All names and market data shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data. The policy analysis provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party. Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see schwab.com/indexdefinitions Negative correlation refers to investments that tend to move in opposite directions: when one rises, the other falls. (0526-GWPD) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Daniel Peter Al-Naddaf, Co-Chair at the Budget Justice Coalition spoke to Clarence Ford on their warning of a fiscal policy failure as unemployment worsens. Views and News with Clarence Ford is the mid-morning show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour long programme shares and reflects a broad array of perspectives. It is inspirational, passionate and positive. Host Clarence Ford’s gentle curiosity and dapper demeanour leave listeners feeling motivated and empowered. Known for his love of jazz and golf, Clarrie covers a range of themes including relationships, heritage and philosophy. Popular segments include Barbs’ Wire at 9:30am (Mon-Thurs) and The Naked Scientist at 9:30 on Fridays. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Views & News with Clarence Ford Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 09:00 and 12:00 (SA Time) to Views and News with Clarence Ford broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/erjiQj2 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BdpaXRn Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In hour 2, Sue hosts, "Sue's News" where she discusses the latest trending entertainment news, this day in history, the random fact of the day and more. Mark is then joined by Elias Tsapelas, the Director of State Budget and Fiscal Policy at the Show Me Institute. He shares his take on phasing out the state income tax as well as some potential carve outs.
In hour 1 of The Mark Reardon Show, Mark is joined by Scott Morefield, a Writer & Opinion Columnist for Town Hall. They discuss their frustrations with President Trump's handling of the Iran conflict and how it's strongly increased gas prices throughout America. He's later joined by Scott Faughn, the Host of “This Week in Missouri”. They discuss what is left to get done in the final week of Missouri's legislative session. In hour 2, Sue hosts, "Sue's News" where she discusses the latest trending entertainment news, this day in history, the random fact of the day and more. Mark is then joined by Elias Tsapelas, the Director of State Budget and Fiscal Policy at the Show Me Institute. He shares his take on phasing out the state income tax as well as some potential carve outs. In hour 3, Mark is joined by Andrew Harding, a National Security and Indo-Pacific Affairs Analyst at The Heritage Foundation. Harding defines what could be the best and worst outcomes of the Trump-XI Summit and more. He's later joined by George Rosenthal, a Co-Owner of Throttlenet for Tech Talk Tuesday. Rosenthal discusses the texting "Green Bubble" security revolution, the "Keyboard PC" renaissance and more.
In this segment, Mark is joined by Elias Tsapelas, the Director of State Budget and Fiscal Policy at the Show Me Institute. He shares his take on phasing out the state income tax as well as some potential carve outs.
Inflation, interest rates, AI, tariffs, the dollar…Most people treat them as separate stories but actually, they're not.Former Council of Economic Advisers Chair Jason Furman explains how these forces are all connected - and why most people are missing the bigger picture.What's really driving inflation, why the dollar's power may be slipping, and why the biggest risk isn't what most people are watching.A conversation about the hidden forces shaping the economy - and what comes next.
Mandy Wiener speaks to SALGA’s Portfolio Head for Municipal Finance and Fiscal Policy, Lerato Phasha about SIU findings pointing to widespread procurement irregularities, corruption and weak oversight in municipalities. The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener is 702 and CapeTalk’s flagship news show, your hour of essential news radio. The show is podcasted every weekday, allowing you to catch up with a 60-minute weekday wrap of the day's main news. It's packed with fast-paced interviews with the day’s newsmakers, as well as those who can make sense of the news and explain what's happening in your world. All the interviews are podcasted for you to catch up and listen to. Thank you for listening to this podcast of The Midday Report Listen live on weekdays between 12:00 and 13:00 (SA Time) to The Midday Report broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from The Midday Report go to https://buff.ly/BTGmL9H and find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/LcbDdFI Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A major geopolitical shakeup is unfolding as war tensions, oil production shifts, and currency questions collide—raising one explosive question: is the global energy order starting to fracture?
The U.S. national debt has surpassed $39 trillion, raising new concerns about government spending and long-term economic stability. This episode breaks down what's driving the increase and what it could mean for the future. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed with the latest news from a leading Black-owned & controlled media company: https://aurn.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Bitcoin is up 19% from the February lows, but Mike argues this still looks more like a bear market bounce than a true bottom. He and Ryan break down why weak ETF flows, soft onchain activity, fading risk appetite, and rolling liquidity still do not look like the kind of setup that usually marks a durable low. They also map out the key BTC levels that would force a change in view, and what real capitulation tends to look like when the cycle finally turns.----
The week on Facing the Future, former Senator Rob Portman and Concord Coalition Executive Director Carolyn Bourdeaux lay out the opportunities for impactful legislation to bring the debt under control. Alex Brill, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, moderates the discussion.
The week on Facing the Future, former Senator Rob Portman and Concord Coalition Executive Director Carolyn Bourdeaux lay out the opportunities for impactful legislation to bring the debt under control. Alex Brill, Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, moderates the discussion.
The Inside Economics crew (minus Dr. DeAntonio) parses the March jobs report, which came in surprisingly strong. They all agree that the headline number is deceptive and the labor market is actually quite weak and poised to weaken further in the wake of the conflict in the Middle East. Mark unveils his new take on the Sahm Rule indicator, which points to a surprising conclusion. The stats game is back (and not going anywhere), and the team takes several good listener questions. Email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com for more info about the Moody's Summit '26 Conference in San Diego Hosts: Mark Zandi – Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, Cris deRitis – Deputy Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, and Marisa DiNatale – Senior Director - Head of Global Forecasting, Moody's Analytics Follow Mark Zandi on 'X' and BlueSky @MarkZandi, Cris deRitis on LinkedIn, and Marisa DiNatale on LinkedIn Questions or Comments, please email us at InsideEconomics@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
On this episode of Stanford Legal, host Professor Richard Thompson Ford talks taxes with Darien Shanske, JD '06, a UC Davis law professor and visiting professor at Stanford Law, who helped draft California's proposed Billionaire Tax Act, which supporters hope to place on the November 2026 ballot. Shanske explains why he believes critics have often attacked a distorted version of the proposal, not the measure itself: a one-time 5% tax on net worth above $1 billion, payable over five years, aimed at helping California respond to widening wealth inequality and cuts to the social safety net. The conversation explores the legal design of the measure, the politics surrounding it, and the larger questions it raises about tax fairness, concentrated wealth, and what tools states should have when public needs are acute. Links: Darien Shanske >>> Stanford Law page Connect: Episode Transcripts >>> Stanford Legal Podcast Website Stanford Legal Podcast >>> LinkedIn Page Rich Ford >>> Twitter/X Pam Karlan >>> Stanford Law School Page Stanford Law School >>> Twitter/X Stanford Lawyer Magazine >>> Twitter/X (00:00:32) Origins of the Billionaire Tax (00:05:28) Why a Wealth Tax? (00:12:07) Will Billionaires Flee? (00:19:06) Legal Challenges, Residency, and Retroactivity (00:26:48) The National Picture Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
A new scenario-based outlook on South Africa’s economic future paints a stark picture of the choices facing the country over the next five years, with outcomes ranging from continued stagnation to a potential surge in growth and job creation. Speaking to Lester Kiewit, Roy Havemann, Head of the Impumelelo Growth Lab at the Bureau for Economic Research, explains that while there are early signs of improved sentiment driven by fiscal discipline and reform efforts, these have yet to translate into the kind of fixed investment needed for sustained growth. The report outlines three possible trajectories, a “muddling through” path of modest growth, a worst-case scenario marked by institutional decline and rising poverty, and a high-growth path driven by rapid, credible reform and strengthened public-private partnerships. Havemann emphasises that South Africa’s biggest constraint is not external shocks but its own ability to implement reforms effectively and quickly, particularly in areas like infrastructure, energy, logistics, and the rule of law. With the potential to create millions of jobs and shift the country onto a more stable economic footing, he warns that the window for decisive action is narrow, and that implementation, not policy intent, will ultimately determine whether South Africa can unlock a more prosperous future. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is a podcast of the CapeTalk breakfast show. This programme is your authentic Cape Town wake-up call. Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit is informative, enlightening and accessible. The team’s ability to spot & share relevant and unusual stories make the programme inclusive and thought-provoking. Don’t miss the popular World View feature at 7:45am daily. Listen out for #LesterInYourLounge which is an outside broadcast – from the home of a listener in a different part of Cape Town - on the first Wednesday of every month. This show introduces you to interesting Capetonians as well as their favourite communities, habits, local personalities and neighbourhood news. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Good Morning Cape Town with Lester Kiewit. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays between 06:00 and 09:00 (SA Time) to Good Morning CapeTalk with Lester Kiewit broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/xGkqLbT or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/f9Eeb7i Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk5See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today Jason welcomes Lyn Alden. Lyn provides tens of thousands of investors per month with research, information, and tools to help them build wealth and reach financial freedom. Some of her content is aimed at new investors, while the most of her topical articles are aimed at more experienced investors. Her research services cater to institutional investors and sophisticated retail investors. Visit LynAlden.com to view some of her core articles, in various sections: Building Wealth (Beginner) Investing Basics (Beginner) Investing Strategy (Intermediate) Global Macro Topics (Experienced) Key Takeaways: 0:56 Welcome Lyn Alden 1:44 A shift towards structural inflation 4:41 Charts: A Century of US Debt as a % of GDP and A Century of US Monetary and Fiscal Policy 9:00 War spending or real spending building the country and people 11:58 Investing during the covid era 14:24 Actions steps for investors to thrive in this environment 19:12 The issue with buy backs 21:29 Money safety in the banks and creating entities for asset protection 24:55 The linear and cyclical housing markets 25:49 Chart: Number of mortgages by interest rate 27:55 A soft economy and sensitive sectors like tech 29:05 Overfunded companies and the burden of reality and the classic bad investment cycle 32:15 Shadow inflation, undercharging and the realignment of the markets 35:53 Prepare for another round of inflation Follow Jason on TWITTER, INSTAGRAM & LINKEDIN Twitter.com/JasonHartmanROI Instagram.com/jasonhartman1/ Linkedin.com/in/jasonhartmaninvestor/ Call our Investment Counselors at: 1-800-HARTMAN (US) or visit: https://www.jasonhartman.com/ Free Class: Easily get up to $250,000 in funding for real estate, business or anything else: http://JasonHartman.com/Fund CYA Protect Your Assets, Save Taxes & Estate Planning: http://JasonHartman.com/Protect Get wholesale real estate deals for investment or build a great business – Free Course: https://www.jasonhartman.com/deals Special Offer from Ron LeGrand: https://JasonHartman.com/Ron Free Mini-Book on Pandemic Investing: https://www.PandemicInvesting.com Join our FREE MASTERCLASS every second Wednesday of the month. JasonHartman.com/Wednesday
In this episode, Kelly Hancock, Acting Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, breaks down what the Comptroller's office actually does—and what the latest numbers say about the Texas economy. Hancock discusses revenue estimating, procurement, contracts, and why sales tax trends matter so much to the state budget. He also explains how Texas is tracking key indicators like manufacturing, construction, and the impact of major projects such as data centers, plus how the state is making more economic data accessible to the public through Texas Comptroller “TexStats.” The conversation also covers the rollout of Texas Education Freedom Accounts (education savings accounts)—including registration numbers, program priorities, and the office's focus on customer-service speed and transparency. Finally, Hancock addresses procurement policy changes tied to DEI-era frameworks, what “leveling the playing field” means in practice, and why he wants stronger auditing authority to protect taxpayer dollars. Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@TexasTalks
Chuck Collins is the Director of the Program on Inequality and the Common Good at the Institute for Policy Studies, where he co-edits Inequality.org. His newest book is “Burned By Billionaires: How Concentrated Wealth and Power Ae Ruining Our Lives and Planet” Inequality is a major problem . Humans daily lives are being disrupted by people with immense power in the areas of health, wellbeing, environment, housing costs, and democracy The Second Gilded Age and Robber Barons perpetuate the myth of the Trickle-Down Theory. The middle Class is shrinking, and Project 2025 wants to gut labor unions, eliminate child labor laws, and decimate workplace safety. Big money robs Americans of their vote and voice. The UN can play a critical role in convening its members to develop standards to limit corruption, money laundering, and offshore banking, along with the G-20 countries moving forward more rapidly with their Global Wealth Tax.
The Treasurer says it’s not his fault. The Reserve Bank has been caught napping. But it’s clear we are spending too much and going too slow on housing - and that’s why the RBA’s under huge pressure to lift the cash rate today. Economics editor Matthew Cranston is here with some straight talk. View an edited transcript of this episode, plus photos, videos and additional reporting, on the website or on The Australian’s app. Read more about this story at theaustralian.com.au and see the video by subscribing to our YouTube channel. This episode of The Front is presented and produced by Claire Harvey with assistance from Lia Tsamoglou and edited by Jasper Leak. Our team includes Kristen Amiet, Tiffany Dimmack and Joshua Burton. Jasper Leak also composed our theme.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second of their two-part roundtable, Seth Carpenter and Morgan Stanley's top economists break down the forces influencing growth across different regions.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Seth Carpenter: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Seth Carpenter, Morgan Stanley's Global Chief Economist and Head of Macro Research. And yesterday I sat down with my colleagues, Michael Gapen, our Chief U.S. Economist, Chetan Ahya, our Chief Asia Economist, and Jen Eisenschmidt, our Chief Europe Economist. And we spent a lot of time talking about monetary policy around the world. Today, let's go back to them, talk about the real side of the economy. It's Friday, January 23rd at 10am in New York. Jens Eisenschmidt: And 4pm in Frankfurt. Chetan Ahya: And 9pm in Hong Kong. Seth Carpenter: Michael, let me start with you, back on the U.S. And when I think about the U.S. economy, we have to start by talking about the U.S. consumer. Walk us through what investors need to understand about consumer spending in the U.S. What's driving it, what's going to hold it up, and where are the risks? Michael Gapen: I think the primary thing to remember here is that the upper income consumer drives about 40 percent or more of total spending. So, there can be higher inflation that eats into real labor market income growth. There can be inflation dispersion, which hits lower income households more than upper income households. We can have tariffs that get applied to goods and lower- and middle-income households buy goods more than upper income households. But when asset markets continue to appreciate, when home prices hold on to their prior gains, sometimes that doesn't matter in the aggregate statistics because that upper income household keeps spending.I do think that's a lot of what happened in 2025. So, there is a K-shaped economy. I think one of the main risks about the U.S. is that its expansion is narrowly driven. We think that will broaden out in 2026. If we're right, that inflation comes down and we're past, kind of, the peak effect of tariffs, then we think that lower- and middle-income household can have a little more residual spending power. And you might get the consumer operating on two fronts, rather than one. Seth Carpenter: Another part of domestic spending that gets a lot of attention is business investment spending, CapEx spending. First would you agree with that statement that CapEx spending last year was characterized by AI CapEx spending? Second, should we feel confident that that underlying sort of momentum in CapEx spending should continue for this year? And then third, what's it going to take for there to be a broadening out, maybe like what you said about consumers, but a broadening out of investment spending so that it's not just the AI story that's driving CapEx. Michael Gapen: I do agree that the primary, almost exclusive story in 2025 for business spending was AI. So, when you look at residential and non-residential spending, unrelated to AI, that I think did feel the effects of policy uncertainty in a changing environment. what keeps kind of sustainability around business spending? Obviously, it's a multi-year investment story around AI. There's a level versus growth rate argument here where you can have a heck of a lot of CapEx spending. May not always show up in GDP because some of it is intermediate goods, some of it is imported. But that doesn't diminish, I think, the quality of the overall story. What gets business spending to broaden out, I do think is related to whether consumer spending broadens out. Most business spending kind of follows demand with a lag. So, AI is a different story, but there's a cyclical component to business spending. There could be a housing related component, if mortgage rates come down and stimulate at least a little more turnover in the housing market. So, if the recovery does broaden out, we see greater real income growth in low- and middle-income households. The labor market stabilizes. Maybe mortgage rates come down a little bit, then I think you could get carry through momentum to non-AI related business spending. That would look more like a cyclical upswing for the economy. May be a heavy lift, but that's what I think it would take to get there. Seth Carpenter: So, Jens, let me come to you. We talked yesterday about the ECB possibly easing more on disinflation. But when I think of disinflation, I think of a weak economy. And that's maybe not really the case. So, I guess the first question to you would you characterize euro area economic growth as strong, or a little bit more complicated? Jens Eisenschmidt: A little bit more complicated. And that's always the right answer for an economist – I think it depends. Well, it is strong in some quarters. And these quarters will change from where it has been in the past.So concretely, we think the German economy has most potential to catch up and actually accelerate, and that's due to fiscal stimulus mainly. While we have other quarters, the French and the Italian one, which will be below potential and so weak – each of them for their own reason. And then we have the Spanish economy, which performs exceptionally and is really strong, but it's only a small part of the euro area economy. If we had everything together, I think the outlook is an economy that's accelerating mildly and only towards the end of our projection horizon, which is [20]27. So, in say two years, hits growth rates that are above potential. Here we are really talking about quarterly increments above 0.3. So, we are currently between 0.1 and 0.2. So, you sort of get the picture of a mildly accelerating economy that goes from 0.15 to 0.035 say in the span of two years. Seth Carpenter: One of the key narratives in markets is about fiscal policy in Germany, potentially driving growth. I know in equity markets it's been a key investing theme. So how excited should people be about the possibility of fiscal policy in Germany driving a resilient European economy? Jens Eisenschmidt: Pretty excited, I would say, in a sense that the positioning of the German government for its economy is actually exceptional in terms of the amount of fiscal space that exists and that has been made available. It's just that, of course, the connection of that sort of abstract excitement that we economists have to what actually happens in markets is sometimes a little bit loose; in the sense that equity [markets would like to see everything coming online tomorrow, and that's going to be a more drawn-out process. So, to my point before, it will take some time. We do have implementation lags. We do have lags in say, for instance, on defense procurement. There is maybe not as much capacity in the economy to deliver into everything. But the direction of travel is clear and up. So, from that perspective, I have no doubts that the future is better for the German economy over the medium term for all the reasons mentioned, but it won't be immediate. And we have just seen in recent headlines, Germany is the most trade exposed European economy. If we get more friction in global trade, that's not great. So, you could even have short term, more negative news on GDP than positive ones. Seth Carpenter: Chetan, I'm going to turn to you. Yesterday when we talked about Asia, we focused on Japan. But, of course, when it comes to the real side of the economy, the big mover in Asia is China.So, let's talk a little bit about how you see China evolving. What the key themes are for China. Last year in particular, we talked a lot about the deflationary cycle in China and how it was protracted. It wasn't going away. That policy was not sufficient to drive a huge surge in demand to push things away. Are we in the same place for China in 2026? What kind of growth should we expect and what sort of policy reactions should we be expecting from China? Chetan Ahya: Well, I think the macro backdrop for China we think will still be challenging in 2026. But at the same time, we expect the micro positives to continue. Now on the macro backdrop, when I say it's going to remain challenging because the number one issue that we are focused on from a macro perspective in China is deflation. Now we do expect some easing of deflationary pressures, but [the] economy will still stay in deflation in 2026. And on the micro front what we've seen is that China is emerging from a situation where it is making inroads into advanced manufacturing, and that's enabling it to increase market share in global goods exports. And it's also one of the reasons why when you see the numbers coming out from China on exports, they seem to be outperforming. Even just the latest month number as we saw, China's exports were surprising on the upside relative to market expectations. And that's the micro story – that you'll see China continuing to gain market share in global goods export. And that supports the corporate micro positive story. Seth Carpenter: We know collectively that export is a key part of China's economy. The productive capacity, as you point out, important for China. When you think about exports from China, the currency has to come in. And recently the renminbi has been appreciating. Lots of questions from clients here or there. How important is the renminbi in reflating or rebalancing the China economy? Can you walk us through a little bit some of these considerations about the role that the currency is playing now and over the next few quarters for China and its economic outlook. Chetan Ahya: Yeah, that's right, Seth. Actually, I've been getting a number of clients calling me and asking whether PBOC is going to allow a significant appreciation in RNB. We've seen it appreciate quite a lot in the last few days. And then whether this will mean China's economy will rebalance faster towards consumption. Look, on the first point, we don't think PBOC will allow a significant currency appreciation because, as I just mentioned earlier, the deflation problem is still there. It's not gone. While we see reduced deflationary pressures, as long as the economy is in deflation, it'll be very difficult for PBOC to allow significant currency appreciation. And what we are also watching on RMB is to see what is happening to the trade weighted RMB. The RMB basket, if you were to call it. That interestingly has been in a stable range since 2016, and we don't think that changes. We've learned from Japan's experience in the nineties that if you have deflation problem, you shouldn't be taking up currency appreciation. And we think PBOC pretty much follows that rule book. On the rebalancing part, look, I think when you have deflation and if currency appreciation is going to add to deflation pressures, that will mean corporate sector revenue suffers. They will actually be cutting wage growth and therefore that has a negative impact on consumption. And so, in our view, instead of helping rebalancing currency appreciation with China's current macro backdrop, we'll actually be making rebalancing more difficult. Seth Carpenter: And of course, we're used to China being a key driver of the economy, not just in Asia, but around the world. But if we think about then broadening out from China, what should we be expecting in terms of growth for the other economies in Asia? Chetan Ahya: For the other economies in the region, I think the most important driver will be what happens to exports more broadly. In 2025, Asia did benefit from better tech exports, but because of tariffs and also what was happening in the U.S. in terms of its own domestic demand, we'd seen that there was significant weakness in non-tech exports. So, from an outlook perspective in 2026, we think that that non-tech export story turns around and that will help the recovery in the region to broaden out from it just being tech exports to non-tech exports, to improvement in CapEx, job growth and consumption. So, I think that the whole region is going to see the benefit from this turnaround. But particularly the non-China part of the region will be seeing a meaningful improvement in their export growth, real GDP growth and normal GDP growth in 2026. Seth Carpenter: I'm getting ready to wrap things up. But before I do, I'm going to ask each of the three of you, one last rapid-fire question. Michael, I'm going to start with you. AI is on everyone's lips. If we were to see a rapid adoption of AI technology across all the economies. What would it mean for the Fed? Michael Gapen: Well, I think that would mean a substantial uptick in productivity growth. Maybe closer to 3 percent like we saw in the tech boom in the nineties. So faster real growth. But probably still disinflation. You can argue the Fed could even lower rates in that environment. It may take them a while to figure it out [be]cause they'd be balancing incoming data that shows a lot of strong growth. But probably further evidence that inflation's coming down. So, if it's supply side driven, then I think you could still probably get some rate cuts out of the Fed to normalize policy as inflation comes down. But I'd be thinking those cuts could even come much later. Seth Carpenter: Okay, Jens to you, a lot of discussion in the news about possible additional tariffs from the U.S. on Europe in some of the negotiations. Suppose some of the announcements, 10 percent tariffs rising to 25 percent tariffs later. Suppose those were actually put in place. What does that mean for European growth? Jens Eisenschmidt: So, I would say 10 percent additional tariffs, we have a framework for that. Pointing to drag on GDP growth somewhere between 30 and 60 basis points. So roughly half of what we think 2026 will bring in growth. Now, for sure the answer is additional tariffs are not great for growth. Big question mark here is though whether we get any retaliation from the European side, which we think this time around if we get additional tariffs from the U.S. side is more likely. And that would just increase the downside risk for Europe here from that additional round of trade or tariff uncertainty. Seth Carpenter: Chetan, I'm going to end up with you. When we think about China, when we think about policy, what do you think it would take for there to be a fundamental shift in policy out of Beijing to get a real full blown, demand driven fiscal stimulus? Or is that just not in the cards whatsoever? Chetan Ahya: Well, in our base case, we don't think that's likely to happen in our forecast horizon. But if we do get a big social stability challenge emerging in China, then we could get that big pivot from [a] policy response perspective, where policy makers move towards consumption. And our recommendation there is to boost social welfare spending, particularly targeted towards migrant workers, which could be taken up if you get that social stability risk event materializing. Seth Carpenter: Mike, Chetan, Jens, thank you so much for joining today. And for the listener, thank you for joining us. If you enjoy this show, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or a colleague today.
Markets and institutions often force adjustments only when political entities are unwilling to do so voluntarily. Dismantling this misconception is the true mandate of economic leadership. Without addressing it, even the strongest economies risk gradual decline, while the weakest are left waiting for the next crisis to accomplish what politics has failed to achieve.
Veronique de Rugy is the George Gibbs Chair in Political Economy and a Senior Research Fellow at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. In Veronique's first appearance on Macro Musings she discusses her career as a think tanker's think tanker, what the difference is between classical liberals and libertarians, how America's mindset has shifted on trade and immigration, the fiscal health of the United States, the US's impending debt crises, solutions for fixing the fiscal health of the United States, and much more. Check out the transcript for this week's episode, now with links. Recorded on November 18th, 2025 Subscribe to David's Substack: Macroeconomic Policy Nexus Follow David Beckworth on X: @DavidBeckworth Follow Veronique on X: @VerodeRugy Follow the show on X: @Macro_Musings Check out our Macro Musings merch! Subscribe to David's new BTS YouTube Channel Timestamps 00:00:00 - Intro 00:01:18 - Vero's Career 00:17:35 - Vero's Career 00:24:32 - Fiscal Policy at Mercatus 00:40:59 - Steps Toward a Sustainable Fiscal Path 00:48:34 - Flattening the Debt Curve 00:59:13- Outro
Guest Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow of Fiscal Policy with Americans for Prosperity, joins to discuss his latest testimony in Congress on a balanced budget bill. Could we work towards cutting federal spending and balancing the federal budget? Discussion of tariff revenue, federal income tax, and wasteful spending in Government. Mayor Elect Mamdani of NYC looks to end cleaning up homeless camps in New York. Are we about to see a repeat of LA with tent cities? Discussion of policy changes from Trump vs Mamdani. Pearl Harbor remembrance weekend, and remembering the war against socialism, fascism, and tyranny.
In this episode of the Mic On Podcast, Seun Okinbaloye speaks with Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, who explains Nigeria's new tax laws and why they aim to fix multiple outdated taxes rather than increase burdens.He says most Nigerians will pay less from 2026, with clear exemptions for low-income earners, students, and retirees. Oyedele stresses fairness in capturing all economic activity and insists the reforms will lower costs for key sectors while improving transparency.Dismissing claims of overtaxation, he argues that Nigeria's real challenge is low productivity and poor data, not tax rates. He urges support for reforms to avoid repeating past policy failures.Guest:Taiwo Oyedele(Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy & Tax Reform)
Europe's macro outlook is shifting. After years of fiscal restraint and fragmented policy, the region is entering a new chapter one centered on pro-growth fiscal policy, energy security, and capital-market reform. For investors, this transformation signals the potential for renewed momentum in European equities and fixed income.In this episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido speaks with Helen Jewell, Chief Investment Officer for EMEA Fundamental Equities, and Roelof Salomons, Chief Investment Strategist for Northern Europe at the BlackRock Investment Institute, about how Europe's evolving macro and investing environment is creating new opportunities across sectors.They explore how fiscal flexibility is enabling investment in productivity and innovation, how energy transition and AI demand are reshaping infrastructure and power markets, and why European banks, defense companies, and energy-efficiency leaders have emerged as standouts. The conversation also looks at the valuation gap between Europe and the U.S., the implications of potential ECB rate cuts, and what reforms could drive a broader, more durable resurgence.Key Takeaways:· Europe's shift toward fiscal flexibility marks its first explicitly pro-growth stance in over a decade.· The intersection of energy transition and AI is driving infrastructure and power investment.· Banks, defense, and efficiency-focused industrials remain strong performers.· Europe still trades at a discount to the U.S., offering selective opportunity.· Integration of capital markets could unlock long-term competitiveness.Key moments in this episode:00:00 Introduction: Europe's Economic Challenges and Optimism01:10 Meet the Experts: Helen Jewell and Roelof Salomons02:17 Historical Context: Europe's Economic Journey03:51 Current Barriers and Progress in Europe05:40 Sector Focus: Defense, Banks, and Energy08:49 Fiscal Policy and Unified European Growth10:33 Energy and AI: The Long-Term Investment Landscape14:30 Valuation and Market Opportunities in Europe17:17 Conclusion: Path to a Broad Resurgence in Europe19:21 Closing Remarks and Future OutlookEurope investing; Europe macro; European equities; investing in Europe; capital-markets union; energy transition Europe; European fiscal policy; European banks; AI power demand; ECB rate cuts; BlackRock Investment Institute; European defense; valuation gap; competitiveness in EuropeSources: “What's needed for an investment renaissance in Europe?”, BlackRock Investment Institute, October 2025; NATO, August 2025; BlackRock Fundamental Equities analysis, September 2025; “Entering The Age of Electricity”, IEA Electricity Demand 2025;This content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to any company or investment strategy mentioned is for illustrative purposes only and not investment advice. In the UK and Non-EEA countries, this is authorized and regulated by the FCA. In the EEA, it is authorized and regulated by the AFM. For full disclosures, visit blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosures.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode of Business Coaching Secrets, hosts Karl Bryan and Rode Dog dive into the realities behind the trending 50-year mortgage, strategies for raising client prices, and the powerful concept of creating lasting value rather than selling on features alone. They discuss generational financial policy, entrepreneurship advice for young business owners, and how the mindset around risk, investing, and habits shapes long-term success for coaches and their clients. Key Topics Covered The Truth About 50-Year Mortgages Karl Bryan breaks down why 50-year mortgages may be psychologically appealing but are often a disaster for long-term wealth. He reveals how fiscal policies typically benefit older asset holders, not young families, and explains actionable strategies for managing mortgage debt wisely (hint: double principal payments to cut interest costs). Debt, Fiscal Policy, and Asset Ownership A candid discussion about government incentives, student loans, movement, and the marketing of debt programs. The hosts explain how national debts, stock market, and real estate policy affect everyday entrepreneurs. Dave Ramsey's Approach vs. Entrepreneurial Investing Karl Bryan shares why Dave Ramsey's advice, though solid for most, isn't tailored to business owners and can actually hinder entrepreneurial growth. Coaches need to help clients recognize where profit really comes from—often through strategic hiring rather than traditional assets. Advice for Young Entrepreneurs For a 21-year-old approaching seven figures in business, Karl shares direct "notes to his younger self": Prioritize learning and history over hype Avoid gambling culture Understand the dangers of chasing status Find mentors closest to your goals Success follows through other people—cultivate loyalty Real success takes five years—play the long game How to Raise Client Prices and Increase Profitability Karl reveals a "scaling" pricing model to onboard high-ticket clients incrementally and why innovation and value creation are the keys to charging more. He provides a three-prong value breakdown—practical, inherent, and social—and explains how to move clients from being compared "apples to apples" to "apples to oranges" in their market. Group Coaching and Retention Leverage Retaining clients and boosting perceived value through live events and group coaching is explored. Karl draws direct connections between authority, events, and pricing power. Moment of Zen Inspiration from sports, family holidays, and leadership culture. Karl shares the magic of "Mickey Points" for family bonding and how elite athletes prime themselves for risk and resilience. The lesson: unlearning old habits is often the hardest—and most valuable—growth. Notable Quotes "Owning a home is as much psychological as it is an investment—it's security for your family." — Karl Bryan "Motivation is great, but a successful life is about avoiding stupid—capitalize, underline, and italicize 'stupid'!" — Karl Bryan "Raising prices is more complicated than just slapping on 10%—innovation and adding value are the keys to creating profitable clients." — Karl Bryan "Don't ask people close to you, ask people closest to your goal. If you want a great marriage, talk to someone with a 50-year marriage." — Karl Bryan "The higher-level question is: How can we increase profits 100% and keep clients happy?" — Karl Bryan Actionable Takeaways Be Critical of Debt Offers: Young families should double down on principal payments if stuck with a longer-term mortgage and avoid upgrading lifestyle unnecessarily. Invest in People Before Assets: Entrepreneurs get the highest ROI by investing in team and systems before stocks or real estate. Leverage Group and Live Events: Group coaching and live events increase perceived value, retention, and pricing power. Innovate to Escape Commodity Pricing: Break out from "apples to apples" pricing by amplifying practical, inherent, and social value—be different, not cheaper. Avoid Your Worst Activity: Personal and client progress accelerates by cutting the most counterproductive habits first, not just starting new ones. Play the Long Game: Real business and personal success takes at least five years—commit, persist, and learn continuously. Resources Mentioned Profit Acceleration Software — Created by Karl Bryan; helps coaches instantly demonstrate ROI and identify profit opportunities. Jumpstart 1212 — The structured operating system referenced by Karl Bryan to optimize businesses before scaling marketing/ad budgets. Letters to Shareholders — Study these documents for real-world business wisdom; better than chasing social media hype or new books. Focused.com — For accessing Biz Coaching tools and Karl's daily emails. The Six-Figure Coach Magazine — Free subscription for actionable business coaching tips: https://thesixfigurecoach.com/get-it Networking events and group coaching frameworks — Boost authority and client retention. Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe for future insights, share with a coach friend, and leave a review! Catch more strategies for business coaches every week on Business Coaching Secrets. Want to grow your coaching business and attract high-end clients? Get a demo of Profit Acceleration Software™ at Focused.com and join our thriving community.
As the U.S. economy buckles under the weight of unprecedented spending, Tara breaks down how reckless fiscal policy, runaway printing, and political infighting have driven the average homebuyer's age to 59. From the proposed 50-year mortgage to Elon Musk's warnings about national debt, Tara exposes the ripple effects on young Americans, the housing market, and the job economy. Plus, she tackles Trump's missteps—from H-1B visa policies to a shocking White House meeting that left veterans outraged. A raw, unfiltered look at the cost of ignoring fiscal reality. When Washington spends, America pays the price. Tara takes listeners deep into the economic fallout of unchecked government spending and the “big beautiful bill” that promised prosperity but delivered pain. With young Americans priced out of homeownership and the average homebuyer nearing retirement, she highlights how federal overspending has consumed the real estate industry. Tara examines Trump's failure to push through spending cuts, the visa policies undercutting American engineers, and the ripple effects now hitting the job market. The episode culminates in a powerful critique of recent White House optics involving an Al Qaeda-linked figure, emphasizing the disconnect between political ambitions and national priorities. Tara calls for a refocus on America first — fiscal sanity, accountability, and leadership that remembers who pays the bill. Economy, Real Estate Crisis, Fiscal Policy, Trump Administration, Federal Spending, 50-Year Mortgage, Gen Z Homebuyers, Housing Market, National Debt, H1B Visas, Inflation, Immigration, Political Accountability, Veterans, Al Qaeda Controversy
Guest Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow of Fiscal Policy with Americans for Prosperity, joins to discuss ongoing government shutdown. When could we see the government open again? Discussion of the Democrat push for universal healthcare, the CR and budget process, government spending, and more. New York is weeks away from potentially electing a socialist...really? Discussion of latest NYC mayor debate, the growing movement of socialism around the nation, and focus on educating the next generation.
This week, Kevin Gordon fills in for Kathy Jones. Liz Ann Sonders and Kevin discuss the recent NABE conference and the current state of the markets in light of the government shutdown and recent tariff announcements. They explore the implications for earnings season, the potential impact of AI on productivity, and the challenges facing the labor market. They also cover the importance of upcoming economic data releases and how relying on alternative data could have potential effects on market trends and monetary policy.Then, Liz Ann is joined by Patrick Harker, former president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. Harker discusses several economic challenges facing the U.S., including the impact of the government shutdown on economic data, the independence of the Federal Reserve, and the complexities of fiscal policy. He shares his thoughts on the need for better data collection and the role of private-sector data sources, while also addressing the labor market dynamics influenced by immigration policy. Harker reflects on his tenure at the Philadelphia Fed and shares insights on the importance of pragmatic policymaking.Finally, Liz Ann and Kevin take a look ahead at upcoming economic indicators and how the government shutdown could affect future data releases.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(1025-WE69) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller speaks with Bloomberg's Tom Keene at the Council on Foreign Relations about Fed communication and dissents, the central bank's rate path, the state of the US labor market and unemployment, US fiscal policy, and more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are markets completely disconnected from economic reality? In this exclusive conversation, Lance Roberts of RIA Advisors sits down with Daniel LaCalle, Chief Economist at Tressis and author of Freedom or Equality, to examine the illusion of wealth, sovereign-debt bubbles, and why the next global crisis may already be forming beneath the surface.
Gold prices are soaring, private equity is unraveling, and data centers have become the next speculative frontier. Beneath all of it lies a simple question: what happens when faith in liquidity, stability, and infinite growth begins to fray? From central banks hoarding bullion to insurers gambling on AI infrastructure, the same story unfolds—risk disguised as resilience. And somewhere between coffee tariffs and capital flows, you can glimpse the new shape of a global economy learning to live without certainty.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:03) - Catch-Up and Current Events(02:09) - Gold Market Analysis(08:40) - Global Currency Dynamics(17:42) - US Gold Reserves and Fiscal Policy(25:24) - Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement(26:25) - Urgent Financial News: Private Equity and Insurance Capital(27:57) - Private Equity's Desperation for Retail Investors(28:33) - The Volatility Spiral and Liquidity Crisis(31:43) - Private Equity's Leverage on Captive Insurance(32:48) - The Data Center Investment Bubble(41:23) - AI Demand and Data Center Overcapacity(48:52) - The Future of Energy Prices and AI(50:45) - Rising Coffee Prices and Tariff Impacts(57:19) - The Global Trade System and Commodity Markets(01:00:05) - Conclusion: The State of Global Markets--Referenced in the Show:--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today's volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp
In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, host Stewart Alsop speaks with Paul Sztorc, CEO of Layer2 Labs, about Bitcoin's evolution, the limitations of the Lightning Network, and how his ideas for drivechains and merge-mined sidechains could transform scalability and privacy on the Bitcoin network. They cover everything from Zcash's zero-knowledge proofs and “moon math” to the block size wars, sound money, and the economic realities behind crypto hype cycles. Paul also explains his projects like Zside and Thunder, which aim to bring features like Zcash-style privacy and high-speed transactions to Bitcoin. Listeners can try Layer2 Labs' software or learn more at layer2labs.com/download.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversationTimestamps00:00 Stewart Alsop opens with Paul Sztorc from Layer2 Labs, discussing the connection between Bitcoin and Zcash and how privacy could be added through zero-knowledge proofs.05:00 Paul critiques early Layer 2s like Rootstock and Lightning, calling many “not real” or custodial, and compares the current scene to the .com bubble.10:00 They explore media hype, Silicon Valley culture, and crypto's cycles of optimism and collapse, mentioning Theranos, FTX, and fake-it-till-you-make-it culture.15:00 Conversation shifts to sound money, government spending, and how Bitcoin could improve fiscal responsibility, referencing Milton Friedman's ideas.20:00 Paul questions Bitcoin treasury companies like MicroStrategy, explaining flawed incentives and better direct ownership logic.25:00 They move into geopolitics and The Sovereign Individual, discussing borders, state control, and the future of digital sovereignty.30:00 Paul explains zero-knowledge proofs, Zcash's “moon math,” and the evolution from sapling to Halo 2 for better privacy.35:00 The topic turns to drivechains, BIP300, and Layer2 Labs' projects like Zside and Thunder, built for real Bitcoin scalability.40:00 Paul explains why Lightning fails, liquidity limits, and why true scaling requires optional L2s with large block capacity.45:00 They discuss the block size war, merge mining, and how miners and nodes interact in Bitcoin's structure.50:00 Paul breaks down the Merkle tree, block headers, and SHA-256 puzzles miners race to solve for proof-of-work.55:00 The episode closes with how L1–L2 coordination works, the mechanics of slow withdrawals, and secondary markets in drivechains.Key InsightsBitcoin's privacy gap and Zcash's influence: Paul Sztorc begins by explaining how Bitcoin lacks true privacy since senders, receivers, and amounts are visible on-chain. He describes Zcash as a model for achieving anonymity through zero-knowledge proofs and explains how Layer2 Labs aims to bring that same level of privacy to Bitcoin without introducing a new altcoin or token.The failure of current Layer 2 solutions: Paul argues that existing Bitcoin Layer 2s like Lightning and Rootstock are flawed—either custodial, inefficient, or deceptive. He compares today's crypto landscape to the dot-com bubble, full of overhyped projects and scams that will collapse before the genuine solutions survive.Sound money and political accountability: The discussion expands beyond technology to economics, as Paul highlights how unsustainable government debt and spending distort incentives. He believes Bitcoin could restore discipline to fiscal systems by forcing real accounting and limiting the political capacity to inflate or borrow endlessly.Corporate Bitcoin strategies are often misguided: Paul criticizes companies like MicroStrategy for treating Bitcoin as a speculative treasury asset instead of using it for real utility. He argues that investors should just buy Bitcoin directly rather than buy shares in companies that hold it, since intermediaries introduce unnecessary risk, fees, and opacity.Drivechains as Bitcoin's missing scalability link: Sztorc presents drivechains, outlined in his proposal BIP300, as the practical way to scale Bitcoin. Drivechains allow multiple Layer 2s to exist simultaneously, each optimized for specific features like privacy, larger blocks, or smart contracts, all while using the same 21 million BTC.Lightning Network's structural limitations: Paul dismantles Lightning's core assumptions, pointing out that it cannot scale globally because each channel requires on-chain transactions and constant liquidity maintenance. He calls Lightning a “Theranos of Bitcoin,” arguing that it distracts the community from genuine, scalable innovation.Merge mining and the path to Bitcoin's future: The episode concludes with Paul describing merge mining as the mechanism that unites L1 and L2 securely, letting miners earn more revenue without extra work. He envisions a Bitcoin ecosystem where optional, diverse L2s provide privacy, speed, and flexibility—anchored by a lean, reliable L1 base.
Despite uncertainty around the US government shutdown and signs of economic weakness, equities have rallied, though tech stocks paused as AI enthusiasm met valuation concerns. With non-farm payroll data delayed, investors are turning to private sector indicators for labour market insights. Meanwhile, in Japan, Sanae Takaichi's surprise win as Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) leader signals a potential return to expansionary “Sanaenomics”, a policy stance reminiscent of Abenomics, boosting equities and pressuring the yen. Tune in for a deep dive into the macro shifts shaping markets this week.This episode is presented by Magdalene Teo, Head of Fixed Income Research Asia, Julius Baer.
The Japanese economy was once the envy of the world. By the 1980s, it looked set to surpass the United States in size. Real estate prices were high, the stock market was booming—the entire world was asking if Japan had found a superior model of economic growth and recovery after World War II, one grounded in industrial policy.However, the bubble burst in the early 1990s, and what followed was not a quick recession and rebound as we have often seen in the U.S., but decades of stagnation. Near-zero deflation became entrenched, and the banking system turned into a drug of cheap borrowing rather than an engine for recovery, with the Bank of Japan pioneering quantitative easing by pushing interest rates to zero long before the U.S. Federal Reserve considered such steps in the wake of the 2007 financial crisis. Japan has never since returned to sustainable growth, and this matters for the world at large. A significant creditor to other countries, shifts in Japan's economic policy and fluctuations in its currency ripple across global interest rates, tightening or loosening financial conditions worldwide. Japan also remains a critical node in global supply chains (including for semiconductor chips and electronics), a major importer of energy, and not for nothing, its cultural exports continue to conquer the world.What lessons can Japan's lost decades of economic stagnation and missed opportunities offer the U.S. and other developed economies? Bethany and Luigi are joined by Takeo Hoshi, professor of economics at the University of Tokyo and a leading expert on Japan's financial system and economic stagnation. Together, they discuss Japan's idiosyncrasies—from demographic decline to economic policy mismanagement—and the interplay of global factors such as populism, nativism, and dissatisfaction with capitalism. If the U.S. is indeed on the cusp of its own economic bubble driven by oversized capital investments in artificial intelligence and technology rather than consumer spending and wage growth, does it have the institutions and flexibility to avoid Japan's fate? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Welcome back to the show! In this week's episode, I sit down with Doug Elmendorf, former director of the Congressional Budget Office, to talk about the impact of government shutdowns, the challenges of fiscal sustainability, and the importance of independent statistical agencies. We discuss how shutdowns ripple through the economy and people's lives, the tough choices facing policymakers on entitlements and deficits, and why compromise is vital to our democracy. Doug also shares his perspective on the independence of federal statistical agencies, the role of private sector data, and the optimism he sees in today's policy students. It's a wide-ranging conversation about economics, governance, and the future of public service.Subscribe to the PolicyViz Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.Become a patron of the PolicyViz Podcast for as little as a buck a monthFollow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, Twitter, Website, YouTubeEmail: jon@policyviz.com
What are the tax solutions to Reeves's budget crisis? What tax changes would encourage growth? Can she afford to scrap the two-child benefit cap? Steph and Robert speak to former Director of Fiscal Policy at the Treasury and current Chief Executive of the Resolution Foundation Ruth Curtice. For investing, savings, and pensions, the smart money's with Wealthify. Open your account today at https://www.wealthify.com Wealthify is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. With investing, your capital is at risk. Tax treatments depend on individual circumstances and may change in future. Email: restismoney@gmail.com X: @TheRestIsMoney Instagram: @TheRestIsMoney TikTok: @RestIsMoney https://goalhanger.com Assistant Producer: India Dunkley, Alice Horrell Producer: Ross Buchanan Head of Content: Tom Whiter Exec Producers: Tony Pastor + Jack Davenport Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders look at the state of the markets a week after the quarter-point Fed rate cut. They also discuss the implications of the lower rate for the broader market, the particular dynamics of the Federal Reserve's economic projections, and the current state of the labor market. Next, Kathy speaks with Robin Brooks, senior fellow in the Global Economy and Development Program at the Brookings Institution. They discuss the current state of central bank policies, focusing on the recent Fed meeting and its implications for the dollar and global markets. They explore the complexities of market reactions to Fed easing, the long-term outlook for the dollar, and the importance of institutional integrity in maintaining the dollar's status as a reserve currency. Finally, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss which key economic data to watch in the coming weeks.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Currency trading is speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(0925-KKW0) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Today's guest is David Ditch, Senior Analyst in Fiscal Policy at the Economic Policy Innovation Center (EPIC). With over a decade of experience examining the federal budget, David has worked at the Senate Budget Committee and at The Heritage Foundation, where he helped launch the Grover M. Hermann Center for the Federal Budget. His work has been published in outlets like FoxNews.com, the Los Angeles Times, and the Chicago Tribune.David's reputation is clear: he cuts through Washington spin with data-driven analysis, showing how Congress, bureaucrats, and special interests have fueled a debt crisis that threatens the future. In our conversation, we dive into the national debt as a failure of elites, the false fights over discretionary vs. mandatory spending, and what Washington could learn from low-tax, low-spend states. We also cover the gimmicks that dominate appropriations and the challenge of making fiscal responsibility popular again.For more insights, visit vanceginn.com. You can also get even greater value by subscribing to my Substack newsletter at vanceginn.substack.com. Please share with your friends, family, and broader social media network.
The Inside Economics team gets together in person at All Hands Day. It is a short podcast, with more than the typical amount of chit-chat (as we are in person). But it is an action-packed conversation on the Fed's rate decision (see if we got it right), our proposal to unlock the housing market, and, of course, the statistics game!Explore the risks and realities shaping the economy in our new webinar, now streaming for free: U.S. Economic Outlook: Under Unprecedented UncertaintyWatch here: https://events.moodys.com/mc68453-wbn-2025-mau25777-us-macro-outlook-precipice-recession?mkt_tok=OT…Hosts: Mark Zandi – Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, Cris deRitis – Deputy Chief Economist, Moody's Analytics, and Marisa DiNatale – Senior Director - Head of Global Forecasting, Moody's AnalyticsFollow Mark Zandi on 'X' and BlueSky @MarkZandi, Cris deRitis on LinkedIn, and Marisa DiNatale on LinkedInQuestions or Comments, please email us at helpeconomy@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. Questions or Comments, please email us at helpeconomy@moodys.com. We would love to hear from you. To stay informed and follow the insights of Moody's Analytics economists, visit Economic View. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Norbert Michel and Dominic Lett square off over whether fiscal or monetary policy is the bigger mess. Lett highlights how entitlement programs like Social Security and Medicare are driving unsustainable debt levels, while Michel explains how post-2008 Federal Reserve changes have created risks of “fiscal dominance,” where monetary policy is increasingly shaped by government borrowing needs. Both stress that without structural reforms and political restraint, the U.S. faces uncertain and potentially catastrophic economic consequences.Show Notes:https://www.cato.org/policy-analysis/comprehensive-evaluation-policy-rate-feedback-rules#https://www.cato.org/books/crushing-capitalismhttps://www.cato.org/blog/medicaid-driving-deficits-republicans-are-scarcely-tapping-brakeshttps://www.cato.org/news-releases/senate-bill-could-increase-debt-6-trillion-cato-analysis# Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this BONUS hour of The Sean Hannity Show, Sean sits down with Kurt Couchman, Senior Fellow in Fiscal Policy at Americans for Prosperity, to dismantle three persistent myths about the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” With facts and fiscal clarity, Couchman sets the record straight: Myth #1: “Only the wealthy benefited from the Trump tax cuts.”FACT: The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act delivered across-the-board tax relief—from doubling the standard deduction to lowering rates at every income level. Myth #2: “The bill cuts Medicaid for those who depend on it.”FACT: Reforms focus on efficiency and restoring Medicaid’s intended mission—not slashing support for vulnerable populations. Myth #3: “This bill explodes the deficit.”FACT: The real culprit is out-of-control spending—not tax cuts. Federal spending has tripled since 2001, while the 2017 cuts spurred growth, boosted incomes, and actually helped revenue. Growth, Couchman argues, is the antidote to deficits. A must-listen for anyone debating tax policy, entitlement reform, and fiscal responsibility. Please follow The Sean Hannity Show wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Sean and Our Guests on Social Media: Sean Hannity: Facebook: facebook.com/SeanHannity X (Twitter): x.com/seanhannity Truth Social: truthsocial.com/@SeanHannity Kurt Couchman: X (Twitter): https://x.com/KurtCouchman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.