Econ Blog

your daily dose of economic commentary

Clean energy is surging despite political attacks. But a slowdown may be looming

1581. Clean energy is surging despite political attacks. But a slowdown may be looming

A forecast indicates a significant reduction in renewable energy growth in the U.S. amid increasing electricity demand, highlighting potential challenges ahead.

Jimmy Kimmel jokes about fascism in an 'alternative Christmas message' for Britain

1582. Jimmy Kimmel jokes about fascism in an 'alternative Christmas message' for Britain

The post discusses Jimmy Kimmel's humorous take on fascism in his alternative Christmas message to British viewers, highlighting a troubling year for the U.S.

A Holiday Memo: NBER BCDC and Alternative Indicators

1583. A Holiday Memo: NBER BCDC and Alternative Indicators

An argument that alternative economic indicators provide valuable insights beyond GDP, emphasizing employment and production metrics to assess economic conditions.

1584. Charles Dickens on Seeing Poverty

The post reflects on Dickens' observations of poverty in Victorian England, critiquing the detachment of economists from the human suffering associated with it.

More on the GDP Release: Compare against “Core GDP” and GDO

1585. More on the GDP Release: Compare against “Core GDP” and GDO

An argument that compares GDP with "core GDP" and GDO, highlighting differences in growth estimates and their implications for economic momentum.

1586. Economics of the Attention Economy

Timothy Taylor discusses how attention has become a valuable economic resource, influencing consumer behavior and the dynamics of the modern economy.

Two Ways to See Abadie-Imbens Bias Correction (And Why It Might Matter)

1587. Two Ways to See Abadie-Imbens Bias Correction (And Why It Might Matter)

Scott Cunningham discusses two representations of Abadie-Imbens bias correction in nearest neighbor matching and their implications for regression analysis.

Merry Christmas

1588. Merry Christmas

Paul Krugman shares his Christmas Eve plans and reflections, blending personal anecdotes with a light-hearted commentary on social media interactions.

Question #9 for 2026: What will happen with house prices in 2026?

1589. Question #9 for 2026: What will happen with house prices in 2026?

Bill McBride analyzes predictions for house prices in 2026, referencing economic indicators and trends from previous years.

Why Europe should resist the Second China Shock

1590. Why Europe should resist the Second China Shock

An argument that Europe faces economic challenges from a surge in Chinese high-tech exports, which could undermine local industries and trade balance.

Existence Of A Cost-Minimizing Solution In A Model With Extensive And Intensive Rent

1591. Existence Of A Cost-Minimizing Solution In A Model With Extensive And Intensive Rent

Robert Vienneau explores a novel economic model that combines extensive and intensive rent, focusing on production processes and their efficiencies in agriculture.

MBA: Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

1592. MBA: Mortgage Applications Decrease in Latest Weekly Survey

Bill McBride discusses a decrease in mortgage applications according to the MBA's latest survey, highlighting trends in refinancing and home purchases.

Year end CWT retrospective episode with Jeff Holmes

1593. Year end CWT retrospective episode with Jeff Holmes

The discussion reflects on personal experiences of humor and emotional responses, emphasizing a steady disposition towards pleasure and displeasure rather than extreme reactions.

Good news from the GDP report

1594. Good news from the GDP report

James Hamilton discusses the recent U.S. GDP growth, indicating a positive economic outlook despite some concerns in the labor market.

Closing out some tabs before Xmas

1595. Closing out some tabs before Xmas

The author shares personal reflections on family, music, and various academic studies, intertwining thoughts on happiness and historical figures while preparing for Christmas.

Election betting on prediction markets apps is set to boom ahead of midterms

1596. Election betting on prediction markets apps is set to boom ahead of midterms

Bobby Allyn discusses the rise of election betting on prediction markets apps amid scrutiny and concerns about election interference ahead of the midterms.

How Does Japan Sustain Such High Government Debt?

1597. How Does Japan Sustain Such High Government Debt?

Timothy Taylor discusses Japan's high government debt and explains how its consolidated debt is much lower than gross debt due to unique financial structures and low interest rates.

Tuesday's Assorted Links

1598. Tuesday's Assorted Links

The post highlights holiday-related stories that illustrate economic principles, including rising prices, consumer spending, and the prevalence of holiday bonuses across different industries.

ICE First Look at Mortgage Performance: Seasonal and Calendar Factors Drive Rise in November Delinquencies

1599. ICE First Look at Mortgage Performance: Seasonal and Calendar Factors Drive Rise in November Delinquencies

The post analyzes November's mortgage delinquency trends, attributing increases to seasonal factors and historical patterns, while noting significant shifts in prepayment and foreclosure activity.

Student loan borrowers in default may soon see their wages garnished

1600. Student loan borrowers in default may soon see their wages garnished

An argument that millions of borrowers in default may soon face wage garnishment after a pandemic-related pause ends.