It's use-it-or-lose-it season in Washington

Sep 18, 2018
Every year at this time, federal agencies scramble to spend down their budgets.
It's September, spendathon time in Washington, D.C.
NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images

Students want upscale dorm accommodations; retailers take note

Aug 24, 2018
Gone are the days when a faded comforter from childhood was suitable for students.
An independent survey from consulting firm Deloitte estimates parents will spend $25.5 billion on back-to-college purchases in 2018. Above, a residential hall at the University of Central Florida.
Renata Sago/Marketplace

Consumer spending lags confidence

Mar 27, 2018
Americans say they’re optimistic about the economy. But stores aren’t seeing it in sales numbers, yet. Click the audio player above to hear the full story. 

Data shows drug prices spiked seven percent last year

Oct 18, 2016
While consumer spending grew 1.5 percent last year, drug prices rose dramatically.
JEAN-CHRISTOPHE VERHAEGEN/AFP/Getty Images

The candidates agree: time to spend on infrastructure

Aug 2, 2016
Japan just announced a big infrastructure spending plan to kick-start its economy.
The iconic 6th Street Bridge over the 101 freeway that connects downtown Los Angeles with its eastern disticts is seen after the start of demolition. The bridge was demolished due to safety concerns after its concrete has become weakened by a rare chemical reaction.
MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images

Retail sales beat expectations, but so what?

Feb 12, 2016
Not bad, but not outstanding either.
According to a new report, retail spending numbers aren't bad — they aren't great either.
Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images

We're spending a lot more on gifts this year

Dec 11, 2015
According to Gallup, the average cost has gone up.

For public good, not for profit.

Your Wallet: Hacking the grocery store

What are your favorite ways to save money at the grocery store?

The best days of the week to shop

May 30, 2014
Forget the weekends. Spend your money mid-week in order to get the best deals.