Why gold is having its best year since 1979 The price of gold hit $4,000 per ounce for the first time ever. It's a bad sign for the U.S. economy Maria Aspan
Plan a safe, adventurous trip with these budget travel tips People get a lot wrong when it comes to paying for vacation, say travel experts, and that can cost serious cash. Here’s how to plan a trip that’s safe, adventurous and under budget.
What the H1B visa application fee hike could mean for the U.S. economy An economist explains the impact the H-1B visa program has had on the U.S. economy and native-born workers. And what the new hundred thousand dollar fee could mean for the future of the program. Wailin Wong
Shutdown has already delayed the jobs report. More critical reports could be held up The government's monthly jobs report was not published Friday as a result of the federal shutdown. That's left businesses and policymakers in the dark about the strength of the U.S. job market. Scott Horsley
Central banks globally have faced political pressure. Here's what happened there President Trump is continuing his push for more control of the Federal Reserve. The Planet Money team looked into what has happened globally when central banks face political pressure. Mary Childs
Government shutdown delays release of monthly jobs report Typically, the first Friday of the month is when the Labor Department releases its report on jobs and unemployment. But because of the government shutdown, that report is delayed. Scott Horsley
How is the economy doing during the government shutdown? An economist weighs in NPR's Steve Inskeep speaks with Moody's Chief Economist Mark Zandi about the strength of the economy during the government shutdown. Steve Inskeep
Washington’s minimum wage to top $17 in 2026 Washington state’s minimum wage will surpass $17 per hour in 2026. Jake Goldstein-Street/Washington State Standard
Trump's controversial nominee drops bid to head vital data-gathering agency Trump's pick to lead the agency tracking unemployment and inflation has withdrawn after withering criticism from across the political spectrum. The White House says a new nominee will be named soon. Scott Horsley
Supreme Court says Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook can stay -- for now The Supreme Court has temporarily blocked President Trump's attempt to fire Federal Reserve governor Lisa Cook, a move that critics say would have compromised the central bank's independence Scott Horsley