Freeport senior Lizalyn Boudreau, center, helps her coach by counting players during Friday’s practice at the high school in Freeport. Boudreau is the flyer on the Falcons’ penalty corner defense. (Daryn Slover/Staff Photographer)
consumer spending
Tariffs on Canadian goods have increased to 35%. How will Maine be affected?
A pact between the U.S., Canada and Mexico exempts the vast majority of imports from the new tax. But the changes will still hurt Maine’s people and businesses, according to the state chamber of commerce.
Bills targeting grocery price gouging fail to win lawmakers’ support
A legislative committee agreed with business advocates who say the bills are unnecessary and will make it impossible for businesses to manage risk.
American shoppers forgo faster shipping to stretch budgets
Demand for expedited shipping has fallen every year since 2021.
US inflation reaches lowest point in 3 years, though some price pressures remain
Inflation in the United States dropped last month to its lowest point since it first began surging more than three years ago, adding to a spate of encouraging economic news in the closing weeks of the presidential race.
Higher for longer rates mean no escape from the debt squeeze
Even where consumer spending looks solid, it’s often being funded by borrowing.
More people make ‘no-buy year’ pledges as overspending or climate worries catch up with them
Many are using the challenge to dig out of debt, while others seek to shore up their financial future.
Some Americans are saddled with credit card debt as rent and everyday prices remain high
Noticeable pockets of Americans – renters, and lower- and middle-income borrowers – are running up their credit cards balances, and increasing numbers are falling behind on their debts.
Americans spent more during the holidays despite some financial anxiety
This year’s sales are in line with what is typical during the holiday season.
Good news: Maine heating prices stable heading into the winter
Oil and propane currently cost less than the record highs in 2022, but world conflicts could affect prices after the first of the year, experts say.