Category Archives: Economy

Economic Impact: Consumer confidence is running high

Posted on September 5, 2018 by matt ohern

Consumer confidence was higher in August than it has been since October 2000. The Conference Board’s index, which is published monthly, reflects consumers’ perception of business health, employment and income for the current month as well as six months into … Continue reading →

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The Impact of Defense Contracts on Virginia

Posted on June 13, 2018 by matt ohern

Virginia’s dependence on defense contracts puts it in both an enviable and awkward position. It is enviable because firms in the state received more revenue from defense contracts performed than any other state in the nation in the federal fiscal … Continue reading →

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Politicians Must Consider Unintended Consequences

Posted on May 25, 2018 by matt ohern

It’s become a recurring, frustrating pattern, as legislators and regulators ignore the immutable laws of unintended consequences, to drive political agendas or aid favored constituencies, while harming others. A good example is corporate average fuel economy (CAFÉ) standards on vehicles. … Continue reading →

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A Lurking Recession or Continued Economic Growth?

Posted on May 16, 2018 by matt ohern

The U.S. economy has expanded for 107 months as of this month, making it the second longest expansion on record. The big question is whether economic growth will last 15 more months to hit record territory in July 2019 when … Continue reading →

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The “Gig Economy” or “Sharing Economy” is Growing Rapidly

Posted on April 18, 2018 by matt ohern

The proliferation of smartphones and online platforms have lowered the barrier for suppliers to provide on demand services, making it easier for more individuals to complete some small jobs and participate in the new gig economy. It is also called … Continue reading →

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