High inflation or ... high inflation?
Summary
Marketplace examines the "psychological tax" on middle-class consumers who are shifting spending toward discount retailers and experiences while cutting home expenses. The episode explores how falling oil prices and sluggish wage growth influence inflation expectations and Federal Reserve policy. Additionally, it covers the difficulty of securing mortgages for homes under $100,000, the rise of affordable domestic travel, and the struggles of sustainable direct-to-consumer brands adapting to changing consumer priorities and tariff costs.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Even Realities and Odoo
Consumer sentiment and middle-class spending habits
Oil prices, inflation, and interest rate expectations
The difficulty of getting mortgages for homes under $100k
Budget-conscious travel trends and domestic tourism
Market numbers and mortgage lender stocks
Sponsors: Fundrise, WISE, and Dell
Sustainable DTC brands and shifting consumer messaging
My Economy: Beekeeping business and interest rates
Credits and donation appeal
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