Economic Perspective

Buying a home may be the biggest purchase someone will make, but some seem to be forgoing that in favor of renting. Does this mean owning a home is no longer a good investment?

The nominations for two vacancies in the Federal Reserve are forthcoming. Why is this important, and what kind of policy debates can spring up from this?

Consumer spending accounts of 70 percent of total economic activity in the country. Is it currently part of the problem or solution for the slow rate of economic growth?

Is there a link between school quality and home values? NC State University economist Mike Walden presents a few studies on the matter.

This week, NC State University economist Mike Walden looks at retirees, and the pros and cons for them living in a college town.

NC State University economist Mike Walden breaks down some of the data looking at the economy in the first quarter of 2017.

A recent study ranked college majors when taking the pay a student will earn upon graduation and combining it with the costs of that major. Mike Walden unpacks the study results.

One of the elements of the unveiled tax plan is moving from taxing business revenues on a global business to taxing them on a territorial basis. What does this mean and why should the average person care?”

Consumer preferences and restrictions on smoking have combined to reduce tobacco use in recent years. Does this mean tobacco has become unprofitable?

Graduation happens at the end of every school year. How do factors like transferring universities or being a part-time student affect tracking graduation numbers? NC State University economist Mike Walden explains.