Here’s an interesting Crain’s New York Business article that illustrates the “Law of Unintended Consequences.” Residents and politicians on the Upper West Side of Manhattan are trying to protect small businesses and mom and pop shops, and prevent big box … read more >

Regarding energy policy….. “I prefer the “old” approach to emerging technology: We adopt new technology when it is better and cheaper than the old technology, not when it is worse and more expensive, forced to convert over by a government … read more >

NEW YORK (Reuters) – “Collapsing natural gas prices have yielded an unexpected boon for North Dakota’s shale oil bonanza, easing a shortage of fracking crews that had tempered the biggest U.S. oil boom in a generation.  Energy companies in the … read more >

1. MLIVE — “Michigan home sales surged 14% in February compared to one year earlier, while the average sale price dropped nearly 3%, according to data from the Michigan Association of Realtors (MAR).  An improved economy and low interest rates … read more >

From the Weekly Standard: “Cato has aided me with almost everything I’ve written about politics. Maybe saying so will lower the institution’s prestige enough that the Koch brothers will leave it alone. If they prevail they’ll lose Cato’s H.L. Mencken … read more >

From Floyd Norris in the NY Times last Friday: “Have you been eating more at restaurants with waiters rather than fast-food joints? If so, you are not alone, and that in fact is an indication that the American economy is … read more >

The ChicagoFederal Reserve reported today that its Midwest Manufacturing Index (CFMMI) increased 1.3% in January, to a seasonally adjusted level of 90.1 (2007 = 100).  Here are some highlights of manufacturing activity in the 7th Federal Reserve district that covers … read more >