Iran
Column Published in syndication March 04, 2026The ongoing military action in Iran involves myriad complex issues, with economic, political, social, and other costs and risks that bear careful watching. It is much too early to know or appreciate the full panoply, but some initial thoughts are in order. Let's look briefly at energy markets.
- Tags:
- Iran,
- oil and gas
A Little Progress
Column Published in syndication February 25, 2026The overall education level of Americans is rising according to new data from the US Census Bureau, and Texas has seen some encouraging gains. While the state still has some catching up to do, the situation has improved notably over the past decade.
1,072 New Texans Every Day
Column Published in syndication February 18, 2026New population estimates were recently released by the US Census Bureau, and the results indicate that the pace of growth has slowed significantly, driven (not surprisingly) primarily by a drop in international migration. For the United States, population grew by 1.8 million (0.5%) between July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025, with international migration dropping to 1.3 million from 2.7 million in the prior year.
- Tags:
- population,
- Texas
Venezuela
Column Published in syndication February 11, 2026Despite a wealth of natural resources, Venezuela has been facing prolonged upheaval, punctuated by hyperinflation, corruption, and a resultant humanitarian crisis. Recent developments, including the US removal of Nicolas Maduro, offer hope for meaningful improvement, though the situation is still evolving. Given the country's vast oil reserves, the changing dynamics have also naturally raised questions related to the implications for global energy markets.
- Tags:
- Venezuela,
- oil and gas
Middle Class Movement
Column Published in syndication February 04, 2026Understanding how things are going for families of various earnings levels is an important undertaking, because trends in financial security across the income spectrum have notable implications for public policy and perceptions of the economy. A recent study offers a new perspective and food for thought about the middle class, essentially shifting from a "relative" definition (looking at how families at different income levels are doing compared to each other) to an "absolute" one (focusing on how purchasing power has changed over time).
- Tags:
- earnings,
- middle class
Slowing the Flow
Column Published in syndication January 28, 2026The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently released projections indicating little or no growth in US oil production for 2026. While still near 2025's record level of 13.6 million barrels per day (b/d), it's a notable shift from the expansionary pattern of the past few years. For 2027, a slight decrease is expected. The Permian Basin, Alaska, and offshore production in the Gulf may increase slightly, but these gains are projected to be offset by decreases in other areas.
- Tags:
- outlook,
- oil and gas
Gone to Texas
Column Published in syndication January 21, 2026Since at least the Panic of 1819 more than two centuries ago, "Gone to Texas" has been linked with those coming to make a fresh start (at that point, Texas was a part of Mexico). Some things never change!
Independence
Column Published in syndication January 14, 2026An independent US monetary authority is imperative for economic growth, prosperity, stability, and -- indeed -- sustainability! Period!
- Tags:
- Federal Reserve,
- independence
The Year Ahead
Column Published in syndication January 07, 2026Although only a few days into 2026, we've already seen notable events, some of which have the potential to profoundly affect long-term patterns. Our latest projections indicate expansion during the year, but there are a lot of things that bear watching.
- Tags:
- economic outlook,
- 2026
What A Year
Column Published in syndication December 31, 2025The end of one year and beginning of another is a natural time of reflection and assessment. As far as 2025 goes, all I can say is - WHAT A YEAR! Economic changes occur constantly, but 2025 saw several large-scale shifts that will reverberate for years to come. As we wrap up 2025, let's look back at some of the most notable economic highlights (and lowlights).