China coronavirus

Given all this, Americans are driving less and thus using less gas, not more. So why are prices rising? It comes down to one thing: hope. And that’s why, despite the impact on your wallet, there’s reason to be glad about the rising price at the pump. … [Read more...] about Why are gas prices rising? Here’s the weird but simple reason you’re paying more right now

In a recent update, the Small Business Administration has provided additional details about the “targeted” advances that are part of the new round of COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans, or EIDL. Unlike the previous advances—which any small business could theoretically snag, even if it wasn’t approved for the loan—the new program will be eligible only to businesses located in low-income communities that can demonstrate “more than 30% reduction in revenue during an 8-week period beginning on March 2, 2020, or later.” … [Read more...] about SBA targeted advance: What small businesses need to know about the disaster loan program for 2021

The pandemic has also offered workers a lesson on flexible work hours. Perhaps you’ve taken time later in the morning to help your child with their algebra coursework, only to look up and notice you’ve missed lunch. Or maybe you’ve gotten an early start on the day so you could go for a jog with your running group. This flexibility in hours is another productive way to think about how your work fits into your life. … [Read more...] about 5 ways to ask your boss for more flexibility at work

The role of asset managers The zeitgeist may be slowly shifting, but change won’t happen without the group controlling the purse strings of the capital — asset managers.  They are critical players in the flow of enormous amounts of capital to companies. The largest asset managers, State Street, Vanguard, BlackRrock, and Fidelity, combined have an immense influence, collectively holding nearly 40% of all US publicly-listed asset ownership and a full 1/5 of the total S&P500, across active and passive client accounts. … [Read more...] about ‘ESG’ isn’t just about feel-good investing. It can be a framework for global accountability