The hottest Economic Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top World Politics Topics

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the boys and men party

Of Boys and Men • 465 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Governors are starting to focus on the challenges young men face today. They are discussing issues like housing and education that especially impact young men.
  2. Gretchen Whitmer highlighted specific gender gaps in home buying and education in her recent speech. She plans to take action to help increase men's participation in higher education.
  3. This is a significant move from a female leader known for advocating women's rights. It shows that improving opportunities for both genders is important and not a competition.

Free Money

Points And Figures • 799 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Many people wrongly believe that money from the government is free and doesn't have really costs associated with it. Government money actually comes from taxpayers, and there's no such thing as a free lunch.
  2. Loans and financial incentives, like student loan forgiveness, can create bad economic expectations and lead to bigger problems down the road. When the government gives money without a clear plan to pay it back, it burdens future generations.
  3. There are better solutions for improving education and the economy, like school choice and reducing government involvement in funding. Allowing the market to dictate provides more opportunities and encourages personal responsibility.

ResiDay 2025

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 63 implied HN points • 14 Nov 25
💼 Business Economic Policy
  1. Home prices naturally stay stable unless there's a major supply crisis. In supply-constrained markets, like big cities, families end up paying more to avoid moving away.
  2. Cities facing housing shortages have been made worse by things like a lending clampdown and recent pandemic supply issues. This has raised rents everywhere, especially in poorer neighborhoods.
  3. The current housing situation might lead to a never-ending construction boom, which could help lower prices over time. However, this will create both opportunities and challenges for investors.

⚔ The AI Revolution vs. chaotic US economic policy

Faster, Please! • 182 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The US is experiencing a slowdown in job growth and economic stability, which is causing concern among experts. People are worried about the impact of politics on the economy.
  2. AI technology is becoming a major driver of economic growth, outpacing traditional consumer spending. There is a belief that AI could lead to significant productivity improvements.
  3. Just minimizing regulations may not be enough for the economy to grow. A more supportive environment for technology and innovation is needed to truly benefit from advancements like AI.

⚡ What will power the future US economy?

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Encouraging clean energy is important for the future economy. A good way to support this is through a carbon tax and removing unnecessary regulations.
  2. There's a proposal to end some subsidies for alternative fuels, while introducing a carbon tax that would go up over time. This could help make cleaner energy more competitive.
  3. It's tough to predict the best mix of energy sources years into the future. Relying on experts to decide specific energy goals may not be the best approach.
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✨ Daron Acemoglu: too much faith in government, too little in markets (and AI)

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Daron Acemoglu identified three major challenges for the American economy: aging population, artificial intelligence, and deglobalization. These issues can disrupt the job market and create labor shortages.
  2. Investing in worker skills and adaptability is crucial to meet these challenges. This includes better training and support for all workers, not just focusing on traditional manufacturing jobs.
  3. Acemoglu suggests that the government should promote technologies that help workers rather than just automate jobs. This involves creating new federal programs to enhance worker productivity and prepare for future labor needs.

On Insurance

Something to Consider • 59 implied HN points • 03 Jun 24
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Moral hazard happens when people take more risks because they have insurance, like thinking they can be careless if they have fire insurance. This means insurance can't cover every behavior to keep premiums fair.
  2. A better way to provide insurance is to focus on events that you can't control, like natural disasters, rather than paying out for specific losses. This keeps people motivated to protect their property since their actions impact their safety.
  3. Government assistance can be more effective if it's tied to things outside a person's control, like race or family status, rather than just income. This way, people are still encouraged to work hard because their benefits don’t change based on their work efforts.

Top Links 631 US labour market churn in historical perspective. The decline of retail jobs. Writhing Leviathans & the business of deportation.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The US labor market has seen a lot of changes over time, with many people switching jobs frequently.
  2. Retail jobs are declining, which impacts many workers and the economy.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the business of deportation, highlighting important social issues.

The Beveridge curve and cultural evolution

America in Crisis • 99 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Beveridge curves show the relationship between job vacancies and unemployment rates, highlighting changes in the labor market over time.
  2. Economic policies, such as tax laws and deficit spending, can impact factors like wages and inflation, influencing the overall economic environment.
  3. Cultural evolution in business practices is influenced by economic conditions and government policies, shaping the economy and labor market dynamics.

knowledge for college

bad cattitude • 145 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Subsidizing higher education leads to more debt and inflated costs. When the government gives easier access to loans, colleges raise their prices, making education more expensive for everyone.
  2. Many borrowers don't understand how loans and interest work, leading to financial trouble. It's important for students to learn about money management before taking on debt.
  3. Universities have become less about education and more about ideology. The focus should shift back to critical thinking and quality education rather than just increasing enrollment and funding.

Chindia Ruins Russia

Diane Francis • 679 implied HN points • 23 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Russia's economy is suffering due to price caps on its oil, leading to a big financial gain for China and India, who buy oil at lower prices.
  2. China and India are increasing their energy imports from Russia while maintaining a neutral stance on the war in Ukraine, which is helping reshape global power dynamics.
  3. Despite being rivals, China and India are benefiting from Russia's struggles, showing a stark contrast between their economic growth and Russia's shrinking economy.

No, this isn't normal

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 463 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Many people argue that housing costs have always been high, but this isn't accurate. In the past, housing prices were much more stable compared to the rapid increases we've seen in the last few decades.
  2. High housing costs today are not just due to demand. There's a complex web of factors that includes limited housing supply and economic changes, which makes it harder for people, especially those with lower incomes, to afford homes.
  3. The impact of rising rent prices isn't felt equally. While wealthier areas may see rents that align with income growth, poorer communities face much higher rent increases, making it challenging for families to maintain their living situations.

Top Links 652 China's manufacturing dominance. The rouble running riot. How PM2.5 kills & the politics of the Rebecca riots.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. China has a huge impact on global manufacturing, producing about one-third of the world's goods. This shows how essential China is in many important production areas.
  2. The rouble is experiencing significant fluctuations, which could affect the economy and trade. These changes can create challenges for Russia and its partners.
  3. PM2.5 pollution is harmful to health and has led to serious political issues in some areas. Understanding its effects can help address public health and environmental concerns.

Ukraine's Zelensky sends love letter to US corporations, promising 'big business' for Wall Street

Geopolitical Economy Report • 438 implied HN points • 25 Jan 23
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Ukrainian president Zelensky is actively seeking investment from US corporations like BlackRock, JP Morgan, and Goldman Sachs, encouraging them to do business in Ukraine.
  2. Zelensky's government has implemented aggressive anti-worker policies, limiting union rights and encouraging a pro-corporate environment.
  3. Western governments and corporations are planning aggressive neoliberal reforms for Ukraine, aiming to privatize and deregulate industries with the help of powerful entities like BlackRock.

Updates To SLP’s Monetary Policy!

The Lunacian • 1426 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🔮 Crypto Economic Policy
  1. SLP supply is capped at 44 billion with a buyback fund for every 10 SLP burned.
  2. The monetary policy aims for 2% deflation targeting compared to traditional 2% inflation.
  3. The distinction between reward currencies like SLP and value accrual tokens like AXS and RON is vital for digital economies.

⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #22

Faster, Please! • 639 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. A semiconductor plant in Arizona is performing better than one in Taiwan, which is good news for US manufacturing growth. This means the US is making strides in producing important tech products domestically.
  2. Construction productivity is struggling, showing negative growth for decades. Long approval times and strict regulations are hurting the industry's efficiency.
  3. More Democrats are starting to support nuclear power as a cleaner energy source. This shift is important for addressing climate change and meeting energy demands, as even major tech companies back nuclear projects.

Poof! Trump Is Bush! Just a thief in the night.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 18 implied HN points • 03 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. US leaders are using a Bush-era 'kidnap the leader' playbook to try to remove Venezuela's president, pushing risky regime-change tactics despite broad public opposition.
  2. The United States faces serious economic and military limits — collapsing recruitment and unsustainably high borrowing costs — that make a prolonged ground invasion or occupation economically and politically ruinous.
  3. Venezuelan officials and the military still control the country’s land and air, so the U.S. move looks like a failed nighttime grab rather than a successful takeover.

Not a Lehman Moment

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) wasn't as dramatic as Lehman Brothers in 2008, but it did show flaws in the banking system. Unlike Lehman, SVB's issues came from poor management rather than widespread systemic problems.
  2. Government reactions were swift this time, which helped contain the fallout. They extended deposit insurance to all SVB depositors to prevent panic, but this crisis highlighted the need for stricter banking regulations.
  3. The financial market is in turmoil again, and more banks might struggle due to rising interest rates. While this isn't a repeat of 2008, it serves as a reminder that there need to be safeguards in place to protect the economy.

Top Links 630 Flexible exchange rates, fear of floating, Goldfinger & the reality of the global exchange rate system.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Flexible exchange rates can cause uncertainty, which some countries try to avoid, leading to a 'fear of floating'.
  2. The discussion around the realities of the global exchange rate system helps us understand how it impacts economies worldwide.
  3. Lessons from past conferences on floating exchange rates are valuable for grasping their long-term effects and challenges.

Green Shoots

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 189 implied HN points • 29 Jun 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Some cities are starting to show improvement in housing, like Austin, Nashville, and Bozeman. These places are seeing good building activity and new homes.
  2. Housing prices in Austin are beginning to stabilize, which may help reduce rental costs as new homes become available. This trend is also seen to some extent in Nashville and Bozeman.
  3. There have been challenges in housing construction since COVID, but cities that allow more building will benefit from new homes. It's a sign that there might be positive changes coming in the housing market.

Discounting the Future: Financial Markets, Memory, & the Mirage of ‘Normal’

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 192 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Financial markets are uncertain right now, with discount rates showing anxiety about growth and policy directions. It's a confusing time that could lead to either growth or recession.
  2. The Federal Reserve is divided on its future rates, indicating a cautious approach as they wait for more data. Mixed opinions exist about how to respond to inflation and economic conditions.
  3. The concept of a 'normal' economy has changed significantly since the 1990s. Today, interest rates and inflation are at levels that do not align with past expectations, leading to a new financial landscape.

We’re Approaching The “Blame the Consumer” Stage

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 43 implied HN points • 26 Nov 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. As the economy struggles, blame is shifting towards consumers for saving money rather than spending. This narrative implies that saving is harmful, even though saving is essential for a stable economy.
  2. Media and experts often argue that consumers are damaging the economy by not buying new products. However, this overlooks the idea that saving can lead to future investment and economic growth.
  3. The belief that saving money hurts the economy is misguided. In reality, individuals and the economy as a whole benefit from saving, especially during tough economic times.

Friday Macro Sitch Watching: The Grit from the Sandstorm Is Fierce!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. In uncertain times, it's wise to be cautious and build safety instead of taking big risks. Waiting and watching can help us avoid bad decisions when the future is unclear.
  2. The economy is facing challenges like stagflation, which means slow growth and high prices. It's hard to tell if we're headed for a recession or if things will get better soon.
  3. Some people still have hope for a positive change, similar to past economic recoveries. They believe that chaos could lead to new growth opportunities, but there's a lot of uncertainty about what will happen next.

Top links 609 Deindustrialization as historic trend. Why CHIPS investments go to places with the right workforce. Falling birth rates and the Trieste model of mental health.

Chartbook • 443 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Deindustrialization is a major trend in history, affecting many regions and economies. This means industries are moving or shutting down, which changes job markets and communities.
  2. The success of CHIPS investments relies on having the right kind of workforce in specific areas. This highlights the importance of education and skill development for economic growth.
  3. Falling birth rates are a growing concern, and the Trieste model is an interesting approach to mental health. It shows that innovative practices can impact social issues positively.

G2 World: West and China

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 03 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. China is becoming more influential in the world by forming new diplomatic relationships, especially in Central Asia and the Middle East. This shift helps China secure resources and trade routes.
  2. The conflict in Ukraine has weakened Russia's global standing, allowing countries like China and India to gain access to Russian resources at lower prices. As a result, China's influence continues to grow while Russia struggles economically.
  3. The global landscape is evolving into a bipolar world with the West and China as the main players. Both sides focus on economic stability and infrastructure development to support their interests.

Why is JD Vance obsessed with your uterus?

Men Yell at Me • 632 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. There is a concern among conservatives about the changing family structure in America. They believe that fewer children and more single-parent households are big problems.
  2. Some policies being pushed seem to aim to bring women back into traditional roles and out of the workforce. This includes things like restrictions on abortion and cuts to benefits.
  3. Forcing women to have children or marry doesn't actually solve family issues. It can lead to more problems like domestic violence and child poverty instead.

Xi Jinping Seeks To Ban “Socialism with Japanese and Singaporean characteristics,” Part I

Japan Economy Watch • 319 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Deng Xiaoping sought advice from Japan and Singapore to help China's economic miracle by focusing on export-led industrialization and attracting foreign companies for modern industries.
  2. Japan demonstrated the effectiveness of industrial policy to upgrade industries quickly and the importance of combining state action with market discipline to avoid economic pitfalls.
  3. China leveraged exports and foreign companies, following the examples of Singapore and Japan, to grow its economy, create higher-tech exports, and improve living standards.

CROSSPOST: VIKTOR SHVETZ: Why Investors Shouldn’t Worry Too Much about the AI Bubble

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 161 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Investors might overreact to the AI hype, but history shows that bubbles usually come with technological progress. It's important to invest wisely but not to fear investing in useful innovations.
  2. Every major technological revolution has been linked to speculative bubbles, leading to both chaos and creativity. After the chaos, societies often adjust and see growth and improvement.
  3. AI is set to change the job landscape significantly. While some jobs may disappear, others will emerge, and productivity is expected to increase, though not without initial challenges.

The Bonds And The Stock Market

Points And Figures • 586 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. The stock market has experienced various crashes in the past, but today there are better systems in place to prevent a major crash like in 1987. It's still possible to see market dips, but the overall structure is stronger now.
  2. Interest rates on government bonds are rising, which could impact the stock market negatively if rates reach certain levels. Keeping an eye on these rates is important for understanding market trends.
  3. Government spending is a concern, and both political parties aren't talking about reducing it. If spending continues unchecked, it could lead to serious economic issues in the future.

What Trump gets wrong about US power

Nonzero Newsletter • 384 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Trump's approach to tariffs risks damaging long-term US power. Countries are already looking to trade more with others instead of relying solely on the US.
  2. The era of American economic dominance is fading as other nations form stronger trade ties. This change means the US may lose influence if it doesn't adapt.
  3. Competition between AI companies may lead to less thorough testing of new models. This rush could create safety issues with powerful AI technologies becoming available too quickly.

Kemi Badenoch’s Fight for the UK—and the West

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 459 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Kemi Badenoch made history as the first black woman to lead the UK's Conservative Party, showcasing her unique background and experiences.
  2. Growing up in Nigeria during tough economic times helped shape her views on wealth, community, and the importance of hard work to maintain society's values.
  3. Badenoch's journey to conservatism was influenced by her early jobs and educational experiences, fueling her desire to promote ambition and potential in others.

Blame the Right-Wing Noise Machine, Not the Facts on the Ground, for Voters' Dismay About the Economy

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 338 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Voters are unhappy about the economy, but it's mainly because they are influenced by misinformation from certain media sources. The reality of the economy isn't as bad as many believe.
  2. The official statistics show a certain level of unemployment and underemployment, but this has always been a part of the economic landscape. People misunderstand these numbers and feel worse than the data suggests.
  3. Many believe the economy is struggling due to flawed statistics, but this misunderstanding has been constant. The data doesn't paint a complete picture of people's real experiences in the job market.

Are Sanctions Working?

Diane Francis • 579 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Sanctions against Russia have hurt its economy but not enough to stop its war efforts. Russia's GDP might even be doing okay compared to countries that imposed the sanctions.
  2. Many Russian individuals and companies have found ways to dodge sanctions. While some assets are frozen, actual confiscations that would hurt the oligarchs have been limited.
  3. Energy sanctions are starting to take effect, with Russia's oil revenues dropping significantly. If these trends continue, it could weaken Russia's ability to sustain its war efforts.

How Trump’s Big Bad Bill Will Kill Americans

Can We Still Govern? • 139 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Americans have a lower life expectancy compared to other wealthy countries, largely due to health policy and social inequalities. This means many people suffer from poor health and die younger than they should.
  2. The Big Bad Bill will cut essential health coverage for millions of Americans, leading to increased deaths and worsening health for those most in need. It will mainly impact low-income individuals and rural communities who rely on Medicaid and food assistance.
  3. Emergency services and community health care will be strained as funding is reduced. This will make it harder for people to access care, leading to worse health outcomes for everyone.

The Money Market Blindspot: Part II

Concoda • 313 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. A debt ceiling issue is causing uncertainty in money markets, which could lead to financial instability. This situation means the government is trying to work around limits, but it won't last long.
  2. With the government's checking account set to change drastically soon, we might see a mix of cash coming in from taxes and cash going out from spending. This could make the borrowing costs change a lot.
  3. As the Fed keeps trying to manage its balance, any unexpected spikes in interest rates could disrupt their plans. This means traders should be ready for some unexpected events in the money market.

Trump Transition Issues

In My Tribe • 425 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Trump's appointees may struggle because they lack management experience and don't bring their own teams. This can make it hard for them to effectively lead their agencies right away.
  2. Scott Bessent has clear goals for economic growth and budget management. His plan might help improve the economy if implemented well.
  3. There's a debate about government efficiency. Some think we should reward agencies for being cheap and effective, but others believe we need to challenge the way many agencies operate instead.

ONE YEAR (& SIXTEEN YEARS) AGO ON GRASPING REALITY: The Panic of 1825

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 169 implied HN points • 29 May 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. The 1825 Panic marked a key moment in the development of modern central banking. It showed how banks can turn to a central authority for help during financial crises.
  2. The Bank of England stepped in during the 1825 financial turmoil to prevent a collapse of the banking system. This was a major shift, highlighting the importance of central banks in managing economic stability.
  3. The actions taken during the panic helped restore confidence in the financial system. When people began to trust that banks were safe again, the economy slowly recovered.

How Many Homes Do We Need?

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 358 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. There is a huge underestimation of the housing shortage in the U.S. Many professionals are saying we need less housing than we actually do.
  2. Current data shows there are about 15 million vacant homes, but many more are needed due to population growth. Estimates suggest a shortage of at least 15 to 20 million units.
  3. Building more homes can help lower rents and make housing more affordable, but there's a risk that new constructions may only be rented out at higher prices, especially if ownership becomes less accessible.