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The Great Decoupling Myth: Rethinking the Productivity-Wage Gap
Recent economic analysis challenges the popular narrative of a widening gap between worker productivity and compensation since the 1970s. The data reveals that when including total compensation and using consistent inflation measures, productivity and worker earnings have grown in tandem over the past 75 years.
U.S. Homelessness Crisis Deepens: 18% Surge Marks Historic High in 2024
Federal data reveals an alarming spike in homelessness, with over 771,800 Americans experiencing housing insecurity - the highest level in recent years. Rising housing costs, migrant influxes, and natural disasters contribute to the crisis, though veteran homelessness shows improvement.
Beyond Retirement: Why Baby Boomers Are Choosing Work Over Leisure
A growing wave of Americans over 65 are redefining retirement by staying employed, not from financial necessity but for fulfillment. With 20% of seniors now working - double from 35 years ago - companies are adapting to retain experienced talent amid skilled labor shortages.
Holiday Spending Hangover: Americans Face Record Credit Card Debt in 2024
A LendingTree survey reveals 36% of Americans accumulated holiday debt averaging $1,181 in 2023, with millennials and parents most affected. Financial experts offer strategic approaches to tackle post-holiday credit card bills through balance transfers, debt repayment methods, and smart savings tactics.
Wage Theft Crisis: Over $1.5 Billion Recovered for US Workers in Recent Crackdown
Federal and state authorities have recovered more than $1.5 billion in stolen wages between 2021-2023, exposing widespread wage violations across industries. Despite this progress, experts warn that billions remain unrecovered as many workers face barriers to claiming their rightfully earned pay.
Major U.S. Retailers Announce Historic Wave of Store Closures Amid Digital Shift
Over 7,100 retail locations are set to close in 2024, marking a 69% increase from the previous year and the largest surge since the pandemic. Family Dollar, CVS, Big Lots, and Walgreens lead the closures as traditional retailers struggle against online competition.
Youth Minimum Wage Gap: Balancing Fair Pay with Employment Protection
Young workers globally face structured minimum wage policies that result in lower pay compared to older counterparts doing similar work. While meant to protect youth employment opportunities, there's a gradual policy shift toward age equity in minimum wages.
Starbucks Baristas Launch Nationwide Holiday Strike Over Wage Disputes
Starbucks Workers United initiates a five-day strike across major US cities, with plans to expand nationwide through Christmas Eve. The action comes after failed contract negotiations, with workers demanding higher wages while the company maintains its current compensation package is competitive.
Historic Senate Vote Expands Social Security Benefits for Public Service Workers
The U.S. Senate passed groundbreaking legislation expanding Social Security benefits to nearly 3 million public service workers by eliminating restrictive pension policies. The bipartisan-supported Social Security Fairness Act, which adds $195 billion to federal deficits, now awaits President Biden's signature.
