In the economy we hear about business cycles (the risk of a recession), wages, inflation and other macro topics we've mentioned in this module. Read some news articles, look up data in FRED as needed, as explain one of these elements as it is occurring in our economy currently/in the past year. I am guessing not everyone will select the same element. looking at a different country throughout the semester, so if you'd like to do this based on that country it's fine.
Just as an example, for business cycles you may want to look at where we are in this business cycle or timely situations contributing to wage or price stickiness, etc.
To get you thinking: If you are able to access the WSJ, follow this link so you can watch the video there as wellLinks to an external site.. Otherwise, here's the article: WSJ Here's Why the Economy Seems Weird The article is from last year, but it is still just as relevant.
Note that there is no problem set for this module and that this discussion post is worth more points than usual, so be sure to put time and thought into it.
Also... I didn't know where else to put this to make sure everyone sees it, but an article came out from the WSJ that I'd like people to read. It is related to consumer sentiment, which we have briefly looked at and economists like to use as a predictor (though in my opinion they shouldn't because people don't seem to act based on sentiment), and also is related to people's confusion about the economy. WSJ What's Wrong with the Economy? It's You, Not the Data. 4 April 2024