Tag: economy
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China’s Tech Boom Meets Worker Reality
China’s technology sector is expanding rapidly, with new companies, innovations, and government support driving impressive growth. But behind the excitement, many economic indicators tell a more complicated story. While tech firms celebrate progress, young workers face high unemployment, slowing wages, and shrinking opportunities. This material explores why China’s tech success and its broader economic struggles…
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Why the U.S. Government Invested in Intel
In recent years, computer chips have become one of the most important resources in the global economy. They power everything from cars and smartphones to advanced weapons systems. The United States government recently made an unusual move: it bought a major stake in Intel, America’s largest chipmaker. This decision highlights the growing competition with countries…
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Why Aren’t Car Prices Skyrocketing Despite Tariffs?
Automakers are facing billions in tariff costs on imported steel, aluminum, and car parts. Yet, surprisingly, car prices have remained relatively steady. In this lesson, learners will explore how global trade policy, corporate strategy, and economic pressures interact. Using an NPR report as a foundation, this lesson is ideal for advanced English learners interested in…
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Is the Dollar Losing Its Power? Investors Rethink U.S. Financial Dominance
This lesson looks at the recent decline of the U.S. dollar and what it might mean for America’s financial influence. Students will explore investor behavior, global economic trends, and long-term concerns about U.S. debt and political instability. The discussion also touches on how currencies are often seen as symbols of national strength. This resource is…
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Steady for Now: The Fed Faces Inflation, Politics, and Pressure
What does it mean when the world’s most powerful central bank decides to “stand pat”? In this lesson, we examine the Federal Reserve’s recent decision to hold interest rates steady while signaling possible cuts later in the year. Learners will explore how economic policy, political pressure, and global uncertainty interact. This lesson is ideal for…
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Racing Against Tariffs: How Chinese Exporters Are Navigating Trade Uncertainty
Despite the pause on high tariffs, Chinese factories still face high uncertainty Warm-up question: Have you ever had to prepare for something uncertain—like a delay, a price increase, or a new rule? What did you do to get ready? Listen: Link to audio [HERE] Read: A MARTÍNEZ, HOST: Just a few weeks ago, goods from…
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Made In… Where? Understanding the Complex World of Product Origins
Have you ever wondered where the products you use every day actually come from? It’s not always as straightforward as you might think. In today’s global economy, a single product can involve raw materials from one country, assembly in another, and finishing touches in yet another. This lesson explores the complex world of country of…
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Tariffs and Turmoil: How Trump’s Trade Policies Are Shaking Global Markets
President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs have sent shockwaves through global financial markets, triggering a steep sell-off and raising fears of a looming recession. As Asian and European indexes tumble and U.S. markets enter bear territory, economists and Wall Street leaders are sounding the alarm. Despite widespread warnings—from billionaire investors to top analysts—the administration appears unfazed,…
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Can We Trust Government Economic Data? Concerns Over Accuracy and Political Influence
Economic data drives major decisions—from business investments to government policies—but what happens when the accuracy of that data comes into question? Under the Trump administration, experts have raised concerns about potential political interference in key statistics like GDP, inflation, and unemployment rates. Budget cuts, staffing losses, and suggestions to change how data is calculated have…
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Why Are CEOs Optimistic About the U.S. Economy Despite Market Uncertainty?
Tariffs, market fluctuations, and shifting government policies often create uncertainty in the business world. However, recent surveys show that CEO confidence in the U.S. economy is at a three-year high. While concerns over tariffs remain, many business leaders are more focused on deregulation, tax policies, and economic growth agendas that they believe will benefit their…
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