Labor Force Participation
Column Published in syndication September 30, 2026The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) is a closely watched indicator of the level of engagement of people in the workforce, whether employed or seeking a job. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks the measure, which has recently fallen to levels not seen since the mid-1970s (excluding the pandemic). While notable, the implications of the decline are somewhat nuanced.
Making Ends Meet
Column Published in syndication September 23, 2026Recent data from the Census Bureau indicates that US real median household income reached $87,460 last year. It's a record high dating back to when the series began in 1967. The fact that it's "real" means that it is adjusted for inflation, and the "median" describes the level at which half fall above and half below. Clearly, it's nice to see some progress in this overall measure, but there are notable caveats that should be examined.
- Tags:
- median household income
Educational Evolution
Column Published in syndication September 16, 2026Notable shifts with profound implications are underway in higher education and other post-secondary training across the country. More students are choosing less time-consuming (and, hence, less expensive) options, demographic trends are decreasing the numbers of potential students in many regions, and international enrollment is falling precipitously. Institutions are facing myriad pressures, and some will no doubt need to adapt to remain viable. Let's explore the big-picture trends.
- Tags:
- education
The Short‑Term Economic Forecast for Texas Metropolitan Areas
Column Published in syndication September 09, 2026Texas and its metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) and metropolitan divisions (MDs) are projected to see notable economic expansion from 2025 to 2030 despite national and global uncertainties and significant headwinds. The pace will be uneven and likely backloaded to the later segments of the projection period, but gains are expected over the five-year horizon. Let's review some highlights from our most recent forecasts.
- Tags:
- Texas,
- economic forecast
LNG
Column Published in syndication September 02, 2026The process of compressing natural gas into a liquefied form and transporting it around the world has been a true game changer. Previously constrained by pipeline routes, the natural gas market had been largely regional and domestic. Now, areas with abundant supplies can access areas an ocean away, thus creating a functioning global market.
Affordability
Column Published in syndication August 26, 2026Over the past few years, costs of living have increased significantly faster than wages, thus creating a major affordability problem for millions of Americans. It is a hot-button campaign topic at present, but the real issue is much more visceral. It is multifaceted, and solutions won't be simple. Let's briefly explore how we arrived at this point.
Omnipresent Oil
Column Published in syndication August 19, 2026The United States remained the world's largest crude oil producer in 2025, continuing a trend that began in 2018 and reflects a remarkable turnaround from past decades. With a record high 13.6 million barrels per day (bpd), the US led Russia (9.9 million bpd), Saudi Arabia (9.6 million bpd), and Canada (5.0 million bpd) by a wide margin.
- Tags:
- oil,
- production,
- United States
Making Stuff
Column Published in syndication August 12, 2026One of the most important economic sectors to long-term growth is manufacturing, which is the process of making stuff. Manufacturing is what economists call a "basic" (or export) industry, meaning that it is one that creates value and incomes in an area rather than supporting a population and using that income. It also leads to some of the largest dynamic or "ripple" effects through the economy, thus generating additional business activity.
- Tags:
- manufacturing
What did the June Personal Consumption Expenditures Index show?
Column Published in syndication August 12, 2026Dr. Perryman discusses the June Personal Consumption Expenditures Index.
- Tags:
- inflation
Some Work to Do
Column Published in syndication August 05, 2026We are accustomed to Texas topping virtually every ranking relating to the economy--most major corporate locations and expansions, top CEO perceptions, highest investment, and many others. By one measure, however, the results are more of a mixed bag. The list of top states for business compiled annually by CNBC, takes a broader perspective across multiple dimensions. Viewed through this comprehensive lens, the news is not all good.