Published in syndication May 25, 2020

This is NOT the 1980s

Oil production costs are down sharply in Texas in recent years, but they are not yet at a level to maintain viability given current prices and uncertainty. As a result, significant disruptions in oil production areas are occurring. The industry initiated a rapid shutdown of drilling activity, which rippled through an enormous supply chain and supporting retail and service enterprises in the affected communities and the entire state. Banks with large energy loan portfolios are being strained, and mid-stream and downstream investments are being deferred. Although concentrated in a few areas, the fallout permeates all regions of Texas.

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Published in syndication May 18, 2020

Unemployment

The latest job loss numbers are tragic, but not unexpected considering the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to control its spread. Total nonfarm payroll employment fell by 20.5 million in April, with losses across all major sectors. The unemployment rate rose to 14.7%, a 10.3 percentage point increase over March. It’s the highest rate and the largest increase in the history of the series and will likely get worse.

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Released on May 15, 2020

Keeping it Together

The Permian Basin is among the most important oil-producing regions in the world. Drilling and production and the necessary supporting industries generate business activity not only in the region, but across the state and the nation. In order to be in a position to fully take advantage of future opportunities, it is imperative that the underlying capabilities remain in place - the workforce, the infrastructure, the supply chain, the equipment, and the community support systems. Given the current situation, maintaining this viability requires immediate action from governments at all levels and the private sector.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 14, 2020

What is included in the latest proposed coronavirus stimulus package?

Congressional Democrats have proposed another stimulus package. Dr. Perryman breaks down some of the aspects included.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 13, 2020

How will the national debt change with the COVID-19 pandemic?

Dr. Perryman explains why the government will take on more debt to keep the economy's structure in place.

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Published in syndication May 11, 2020

Inspiration

Bad news abounds these days, yet we’ve also seen some amazing acts of courage, kindness, and generosity.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 11, 2020

What does the April job report look like?

COVID-19 has led to massive job losses, as evidenced through the April numbers.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 08, 2020

What does the Neiman Marcus bankruptcy filing mean?

Dr. Perryman describes the cause and effects of bankruptcy for the Texas legend.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 07, 2020

What is the Fed able to do and what are they doing to help with coronavirus relief?

The Federal Reserve Bank has many ways to help the economy during the pandemic. Dr. Perryman describes what these are and how they are carried out.

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Broadcast via Texas State Networks on May 06, 2020

What did Texas do in relation to oil production amidst a disparity in oil supply and demand?

Dr. Perryman explains the Railroad Commission's decision to avoid cutting production, and why this was the correct choice. 

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