Current Event Analysis

Associated Press: “California Winemakers Squeezed by U.S.-China Trade War”

Veronica Horton
11 March 2020

This video explores the impact of the U.S. trade war with China on California’s winemakers. In response to tariffs imposed by the United States, China levied a series of tariffs on wine imported from California, pushing the price of California wines to as much as 60 percent more than the price prior to the tariffs. For California’s winemakers, the situation is becoming dire.

BBC News: “Coronavirus: South Africa’s economic victims”

Veronica Horton
11 March 2020

This video explores the impact of the novel coronavirus on South Africa’s lobster industry. Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19 in China, South Africa exported 80 to 90 percent of its lobster to China. Following the health crisis and the mandatory quarantine of so many people in China, demand for lobster has all but stopped, putting extreme pressure on South Africa’s fishing industry.

Paid in Full? The Student Loan Crisis

Audrieanna Burgin
6 March 2020

Student loan debt is a universal crisis in our nation that is transcending race, age, and gender groups. A CNBC report illustrates that while student loan debt has slowed in its rapid growth, a looming crisis remains. The current total…

In Vino Veritas…Ceteris Paribus

Michael Coon
26 February 2020

Prices for California wines are expected to drop to the lowest they have been in the past five years. Wine consumption in the US has consistently grown over the past 25 years. In preparation for continued growth, vineyards in Northern…

Organic Dairy Farmers in Decline

Michael Coon
22 February 2020

Sales of organic products in the US exceeded $50 billion in revenue for the first time ever in 2018. Organic sales have more than doubled since 2010. Despite this tremendous growth, small organic farmers are struggling, with market pressures coming…

Price Increases at The Happiest Place on Earth

Michael Coon
20 February 2020

In the wake of opening new Star Wars themed attractions in their parks, Disneyland and Walt Disney World recently announced a price increase on tickets to visit their theme parks. The price increase ranges from $5-$20, depending on the type…

Coronavirus Outbreak Could Have Major Economic Impact

David Switzer
6 February 2020

Last week, the world learned that a deadly, fast-moving disease called the coronavirus had appeared in several Chinese cities. The mysterious illness has already killed more than a hundred people and infected thousands more, leading the World Health Organization to declare the coronavirus a global health emergency. Despite its potentially worldwide implications, though, right now the disease is primarily localized in China. Along with placing entire cities on quarantine, Chinese authorities have also extended the annual Lunar New Year holiday so that businesses will remain closed until at least next week.

LAist: “Kobe Bryant Sneakers Are Worth Big Bucks: But Not Everybody’s Cashing In”

David Switzer
5 February 2020

The tragic and unexpected death of Kobe Bryant has caused a large spike in demand for his autographed and game-worn memorabilia. Some collectors are choosing to hold on to their merchandise, while others are cashing out now and even trying to buy more so they can sell it at a higher price in the near future. This article explores the personal and economic incentives for holding on to rare memorabilia in a case like this.

Small Potatoes

Michael Coon
17 January 2020

In early December 2019, media outlets across the US warned of a potential French fry shortage in 2020. These warnings came after the US Department of Agriculture estimated that the total US potato output in 2019 would be 6.1 percent…

Chicken Little is an Increasingly Rare Bird

EVs: Driving Change at Convenience Stores

Who’s In The Driver’s Seat: The Changing Dynamics of Auto Production

China’s Population is Declining – Too hot, too cold, or just nice for its Economic Development?

The Externalities Effect of Child Firearm Fatalities in the States

Why is Everything Getting So Expensive?

Understanding the U.S. Labor Market – A January 2023 Snapshot

The New Economics of Car Production

Looming Water Crisis – What can YOU do to Conserve Water?

U.K. Economy Three Years after Brexit