Business - Centralmaine.com

Rents spike as big-pocketed investors buy mobile home parks

by MICHAEL CASEY and CAROLYN THOMPSON Associated Press July 25, 2022July 25, 2022

The purchases – and the ensuing rent increases – are putting residents in a bind, since most mobile homes – despite the name – cannot be moved easily or cheaply.

Business, Nation & World

Fed set to impose another big rate hike to fight inflation

by CHRISTOPHER RUGABER Associated Press July 25, 2022July 25, 2022

Despite conflicting signs, for now the Federal Reserve is focused squarely on its inflation fight, and this week it’s set to announce another hefty hike in its benchmark interest rate.

Business, Nation & World

Russia’s Gazprom to cut gas flow to Europe to 20% of capacity

by Associated Press July 25, 2022July 25, 2022

Concerns are rising about a possible recession if Europe does not save enough gas and rationing is required to get through the cold months.

Business, Nation & World

Average gas price falls 32 cents to $4.54 per gallon

by Associated Press July 24, 2022July 25, 2022

But it’s $1.32 higher than it was one year ago.

Business

Yellen downplays U.S. recession as wave of economic data looms

by CHRISTOPHER RUGABER Associated Press July 24, 2022July 24, 2022

Yellen argues that much of the economy remains healthy: Consumer spending is growing, Americans’ finances are solid and the economy has added more than 400,000 jobs a month this year.

Business, Food & Dining, Maine

Maine’s organic grain producers see increasing consumer demand. Can supply keep pace?

by Tim Cebula July 24, 2022July 24, 2022

Circumstances like the pandemic and weather gave the state’s organic grain businesses a boost in recent years. But the dwindling number of organic grain farmers means the future of Maine’s grains economy is unclear.