latest news in economy
The Artificial Intelligence Boom Drives a Surge in Skilled Trade Job Growth
New York, Wednesday, 20 May 2026.
Artificial intelligence is unexpectedly rewriting the labor market, displacing entry-level college graduates while creating a critical shortage of skilled tradespeople needed to build physical infrastructure.
Strong Corporate Profits Outshine Geopolitical Risks in May 2026
New York, Wednesday, 20 May 2026.
Despite rising oil prices and escalating conflict in Iran, robust corporate earnings in late May 2026 are overpowering global economic pressures, proving the surprising resilience of current stock markets.
AI Data Center Growth Could Spike Power Bills by 57%, Prompting New US Legislation
Washington, D.C., Tuesday, 19 May 2026.
As AI data centers threaten to drive regional electricity costs up 57% by 2030, newly introduced US legislation demands tech companies fully finance their required grid infrastructure upgrades.
Alaska Oil Production Rebounds as New Arctic Projects Begin Operations
Anchorage, Tuesday, 19 May 2026.
After plummeting to one-fifth of its 1988 peak, Alaska’s oil production is finally rebounding. Newly activated projects will significantly boost U.S. domestic energy supply, reversing decades of decline.
Student Loan Defaults Hit a Record $171 Billion as Financial Strain Shifts to 40-Year-Olds
Washington D.C., Monday, 18 May 2026.
Federal student loan defaults surged to a record $171.4 billion in early 2026. Strikingly, the average defaulting borrower is now 40 years old, signaling broader consumer financial distress.