Despite hopeful outlooks and talks of growth, the U.S. economy is floundering. Winter activity was strong, but as the weather warmed, consumers cut back on their spending while export demand fell as well. Gas prices rose, while businesses minimized their employment plans and investments. The situation remains at a relative standstill as individuals and companies… Continue Reading
Economists were pleasantly surprised last week when July’s data showed an improvement in employment and a significant reduction in the number of Americans filing applications for unemployment benefits. Observers hope this is a sign that the economy will continue to grow as the labor market grows. According to Labor Department statistics the number of jobless… Continue Reading
In an effort to provide a much-needed service to small businesses, PCWorld.com recently listed the top five social media management tools in the sector. Choosing only those suitable for smaller companies, every social media outlet listed meets criteria such as affordability; scalability; support for Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter; and update posting assistance. Each tool is… Continue Reading
Legal & General Group, a UK insurance company, recently stated that although further crises are expected on a global macroeconomic level, their company will persevere. In fact, Tim Breedon’s replacement Mr. Nigel Wilson, chief executive, has plans to further expand the businesses through bolt-on acquisitions. The first half of 2012 saw revenue grow from GBP493… Continue Reading
Are you too busy to send flowers; write a poem; or even wait on hold? Ted Roden, the founder of Fancy Hands personal assistant service management might be just the thing you need to get your life back under control and concentrate on the important things you need to get done. When Roden was in… Continue Reading
Throughout the economic concerns and debt crises, Germany has always managed to keep its head above water, and sometimes thrive, despite the area’s hardships. Not anymore. In 2011, German exports increased dramatically while employment levels improved, wages rose and real estate climbed to altogether new heights. Near-balance of the federal budget and other positive signs… Continue Reading
163,000 jobs were added in the United States this past month, a hopeful figure despite the creeping unemployment rates across the country. The largest climb since February, the development fuels the political debate about the nation’s economy. Mark Zandi of Moody’s Analytics said “I was relieved. After three months of very weak job growth, I… Continue Reading
Former Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors under President Nixon and economic advisor to other presidents, Paul W McCracken died at the age of 96 in Ann Arbor, Michigan last Friday. McCracken’s death was announced on the website of the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan where he was professor emeritus… Continue Reading
Struggling businesses and shaky unemployment rates have sent the nation into a well-controlled panic. However, some areas are still seeing signs of growth. Richmond, for example, is thrilled by the new ‘Hiring’ sign that hangs at a formerly-vacant warehouse on West Cutting Boulevard. Placed there by the “superfood” importer and marketer Nutiva, the message brings… Continue Reading
Former U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln, Democrat of Arkansas says she shares a deep concern for the welfare of the middle class with President Obama. But she asks the President to tone down his rhetoric which has sounded lately like he is against small business. “The president suggested earlier this month that government plays a bigger… Continue Reading