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The Indicator from Planet Money

The Indicator from Planet Money

A bite-sized show about big ideas. From the people who make Planet Money, The Indicator helps you make sense of what's happening in today's economy. It's a quick hit of insight into money, work, and business. Monday through Friday, in 10 minutes or less.LIVE TOUR & BOOK INFO: planetmoneybook.com 

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Episodes

Corporate landlords aren't the real villain

So you want to buy a house. You MIGHT notice that the owner isn?t a neighbor in your town, but a large corporation. A recent housing bill that passed the Senate wants to change that. This bill would restrict large institutional investors from owning too many single family homes. The hope is to improve affordability. But what?s the real connection between housing affordability and corporate landlords? We look at the evidence. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

The Indicator has a weekly newsletter! Be among the first and sign-up now: npr.org/indicatornewsletter 

Related episodes: 
Is the YIMBY movement doomed? 
How to fix a housing shortage 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-21
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Is anyone gonna do anything about these Iran War trades?

Traders have made millions betting on the Iran War. They are also suspiciously timed. No public information, then boom: a Truth Social post from President Trump. Cue fat windfalls for the traders. It?s starting to look a lot like insider trading. 

On today?s show, suspicious bets on the Iran War. And are federal regulators or prosecutors looking into these trades ? is anyone?

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes: 
Did Trump enable insider trading?
Do traders who place big bets make big money?
How much is the Iran war costing us?

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-20
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Fed chair, health care, and AI shoe repair

It?s Indicators of the Week. Our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: the drama behind the Fed Chair nominee?s wealth; the shoe company Allbirds is becoming an AI firm; and a drop in how many people are paying for their Affordable Care Act plans.

The Indicator is launching a newsletter! Be among the first and sign-up now: npr.org/indicatornewsletter

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes: 
One Fed battle after another
The ghosts of Obamacare past, present and future
Allbirds: Tim Brown & Joey Zwillinger

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-17
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Fixing the oil crisis might not fix the Persian Gulf

If the Strait of Hormuz completely reopens, it still might not be enough to restart the economies in the Persian Gulf. Many countries there have been hammered by the oil crisis. And although allowing ships through would stanch the immediate bloodletting in the energy sector, other sectors might not spring back so quickly. Tourists are visiting less. Property markets are at risk. 

On today?s show, we survey the economic damage to countries in the Gulf. And try to get a sense of the long-term economic implications. 

The Indicator is launching a newsletter! The very first email goes out this Friday. Be among the first and sign-up now: npr.org/newsletter/indicator 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes: 
Think the oil shock is bad in the US? Look here
How are drivers riding out the gas crisis? 
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-16
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Think the oil shock is bad in the US? Look here

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is pretty slow right now. A once steady stream of global oil has been severed, and oil prices have shot into the stratosphere. Countries across the world are trying to stop the bleeding. One is counting down the days until it runs out of oil. Another is ? just fine.

On today?s show, we take stock of how three countries, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, and China, are navigating the oil crisis.

The Indicator is launching a newsletter! The very first email goes out this Friday. Be among the first and sign-up now: npr.org/indicatornewsletter 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes: 
How are drivers riding out the gas crisis?
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-15
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How the workplace helps you win Survivor

With the 50th season of Survivor underway, three former Survivor winners tell us how some of the skills they learned in their careers helped them win the show. 

There?s game theory, social engineering, and learning how to get along with a group of castaways who have a $1 million incentive to vote you off the island. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! Twelve cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes: 
Teamwork actually does make the dream work 
The game theory that led to nuclear standoffs

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-14
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Can you really do what you love?

They say do what you love and you?ll never work a day in your life. But c?mon. Is that possible in this day and age? On today?s show, we speak to a tech investor who tells us the ingredients he believes are needed to make passion pay. And we hear from an economist who?s run the numbers on luck. 

Bill Gurley?s book is Runnin? Down a Dream: How to Thrive in a Career You Actually Love.  

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour 

Related episodes: 
Teamwork actually does make the dream work  
Why women make great bosses  

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-13
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Class myths, an influx of e-ships, and pricey Olympics tix!

It?s Indicators of the Week, our weekly look at some of the most fascinating numbers from the news. (Now on YouTube!) 

On today?s episode: Is the middle class actually hollowing out? Are more e-ships powered by batteries on the horizon? And how much are the first batch of L.A. Olympics tickets going for??? 

Related episodes: 
Why the Olympics cost so much 
The Indicator Takes On Batteries 
Are the Simpsons still middle class? 
For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez, Julia Ritchey and Vito Emanuel. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-10
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Where AI data centers are reducing power bills

Over the last half decade, wholesale electricity prices have increased 267% in places close to data centers. That?s contributed to a backlash against new ones. 

But some experts believe data centers are a scapegoat for long-term issues with an aging U.S. grid. Today on the show, we ask who is responsible for rising electricity prices and whether the U.S. can handle a new era of grid growth. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com/#tour

Related episodes:
All these data centers are gonna fry my electric bill ? right?
What AI data centers are doing to your electric bill 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-09
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How are drivers riding out the gas crisis?

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com 

If you?re a commuter, gas prices may not be your friend right now. The average cost of a gallon is more than $4 across the country. California?s average is close to $6. So how are drivers around the country responding? Today on the show, we hear how they?re adapting to higher prices and how much this gas price increase could cost Americans over the year. 

Related episodes: 
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?
Breaking down the price of gasoline

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-08
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Why infinite scroll's inventor wants to kill his creation

We practically live on our phones these days. Scrolling and scrolling, endlessly. Entrepreneur Aza Raskin is responsible for creating this infinite scroll. He also testified against Meta, who have been under fire ? and in court ? charged with making their apps addictive to children.  

On today?s show: Raskin tells us about the changes he thinks platforms should make to help people take their attention back. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com 

Related episodes: The Social Media Crisis 
How algorithms are changing the way we speak 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Cooper Katz McKim. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-07
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Is the economy red, orange, yellow or green?

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com 

It?s not often you get to talk to a regional Fed president, let alone two at the same time!

Today on the show, we take the temperature of the economy with regional Fed presidents Austan Goolsbee and Beth Hammack.

Related episodes: 
One Fed battle after another
America's next top Fed Chair

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-06
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Jobs that new college grads are and are not landing

Come see Planet Money live on stage! 12 cities. Details and tix here: planetmoneybook.com

Economists have described the state of the jobs market as ?low hire, low fire.? That means employers are not cutting many jobs, but they're also not adding much either, a dismal prospect for many new college grads. On this edition of Jobs Friday, we go to Howard University in Washington, D.C. to see how graduating seniors are faring. 

Related episodes: 
Just how bad are these jobs numbers? 
Do I need a four-year degree?  

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-03
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Greetings from: Our favorite public goods

Freedom of the Seas. GPS. The Large Hadron Collider. These are all public goods that make our world more prosperous, accurate, and knowledgeable. But we don?t always give them the attention they deserve. 

Today on the show, the Planet Money book?s main author Alex Mayyasi joins us to take an audio world tour of spectacular public goods, one whimsical postcard at a time. 

These postcards are gorgeously illustrated in the Planet Money book

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
Lighthouses, Autopsies And The Federal Budget 
The highs and lows of US rents 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-02
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Why Pokémon cards are growing faster than your retirement account

Pokémon cards are scorching hot right now. An index tracking the thousands of rare cards shows that valuations have increased 170% in the last year alone. Growth like that really makes you wish you hadn?t given away all your childhood cards years ago.

Today on the show, we cover three things that are contributing to the rapid growth of shiny cards produced by the world?s highest-grossing media franchise.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
The secret to Nintendo's success
The curious rise of novelty popcorn buckets

The Curse Of The Black Lotus (Update)
For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-04-01
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Who's afraid of private credit?

There is a $3 trillion dollar black box at the center of the economy. It?s called private credit. These are direct loans from private investors to private companies. They?re often riskier, less regulated than traditional bank loans ? and far less transparent. Spooked investors are scrambling to cash out, and some funds aren?t letting them. It?s all fueling fears of another financial crisis.

On today?s show, the private credit exodus. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
What could break next? 
Who?s financing Meta?s massive AI data center?

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-31
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Do school lunches really need an overhaul?

School lunch has been revamped a ton over the last two decades. Now, the Trump administration wants to rejigger the menu once more to align with its Make America Healthy Again agenda. That means more meat. More dairy. But do schools really need another menu overhaul? And could they even afford it?

On today?s show, we join a school lunch line in South Carolina to find out what kids are actually eating.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! Twelve cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
A food fight over free school lunch
How beef climbed to the top of the food pyramid

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-30
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The US loses tech hires, sayonora to Sora, and Afroman's win

It?s Indicators of the Week (now on YouTube!). It?s our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: The US ain?t doing too hot in attracting European tech workers; OpenAI takes its video generator Sora behind the barn; and a rapper, pound cake, and the police. 

Related episodes: 
OpenAI's deals are looking a little frothy 
We're about to lose a lot of foreign STEM workers 
For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Julia Ritchey and Vito Emanuel. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-27
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Tracing the tax that's supposed to fund TSA

Every time you buy a ticket that leaves a U.S. airport, you pay a fee that?s supposed to help fund the TSA. So why have TSA workers been working without pay? Today on the show, we explore the history behind an earmarked tax and its very personal impacts.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes:
Your next flight doesn't have to be so expensive. Here's why 
How flying got so bad (or did it?) 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-26
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Your next flight doesn't have to be so expensive. Here's why

Why are flight tickets so expensive right now? Increased oil prices seems like it?d be the obvious answer. That?s mostly right. Airlines used to do some financial magic to help keep airfare down as oil prices increased, a strategy called ?fuel hedging.? But they stopped. And now fliers are on the hook for a lot of the difference. 

On today?s show, the lost art of fuel hedging. How it worked, plus why airlines stopped doing it.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
A lot of gas trapped, oil reserves tapped, and Live Nation gets a (tiny) cap
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?
Listener Questions: Airline tickets, grocery pricing and the Fed

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-25
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Why hasn't the Russian economy collapsed?

How has Russia?s economy not completely collapsed after four years of war, sanctions and billions in debt? One economist says it is the war that has been propping up Russia's economy, not the other way around. He calls it smertonomika or death economics.

On today?s show, six reasons why Russia?s economy is still chugging along despite burning money by the billions waging war on Ukraine.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
How your favorite fish sticks might be funding Russia's war
Who?s propping up Russian oil?

The economic war against Russia, a year later
For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-24
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The multimillion dollar Saturday Night Live UK gamble

Live from London, it?s Saturday Night? Saturday Night Live made its UK debut over the weekend after a well-hyped promotional campaign. Will this all-American sketch show translate to British audiences? We examine SNL?s multi-million dollar gamble. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
Why Paramount went looney tunes for Warner Bros.  

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-23
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Trump and truckers, Poland prospers, and a booming ant biz

It?s Indicators of the Week (now on YouTube!). It?s our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: The Trump administration cracks down on immigrant truck drivers, Poland becomes a top-twenty economy, and the booming business of ? ant smuggling? 

Related episodes: 
A trucker, a farmer, and an entrepreneur walk into a global supply shock 
You Could Always Go To Poland 
The little pet fish that saved a town in the Amazon 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Julia Ritchey and Vito Emanuel. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-20
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How Iran is wasting American resources

Iran is using an affordable strategy to even the playing field in the war with the U.S. It?s using drones that cost in the thousands of dollars to combat American missiles that cost several million. Military analysts have already signaled concern about the U.S. producing enough munitions, and this isn?t helping. Today on the show, why the U.S. spends so much on munitions and what it?s learning from Iran. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes:
Are we overpaying for military equipment?
Can Just-In-Time handle a new era of war? 
A trucker, a farmer, and an entrepreneur walk into a global supply shock 
Are we overpaying for military equipment?

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  


See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-19
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How much is the Iran war costing us?

It?s really hard to estimate the total cost of war in the middle of one. Over the first six days of the Iran war, an estimated $11.3 billion was charged to the public purse. But long-term costs take years to manifest. Even daily costs are fuzzy. Take munitions: the Department of Defense hasn?t budgeted for  many of the bombs it's dropping. One more time. The bombs ? the bombs! ? are not totally priced in.

On today?s show, estimating the cost of the Iran war right now. And how healthcare, disability benefits, environmental costs and interest payments could add to its future price tag.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! Twelve cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
A trucker, a farmer, and an entrepreneur walk into a global supply shock
A lot of gas trapped, oil reserves tapped, and Live Nation gets a (tiny) cap

Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?
For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-18
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A trucker, a farmer, and an entrepreneur walk into a global supply shock

The U.S. and Israel war with Iran is causing a shock to the economic system. Gas prices are higher, diesel too, and even fertilizer is being affected. Today on the show, we speak to three people about the economic ripple effects of the conflict: a truck driver, an Iowa corn farmer, and a manufacturer of an alternative to plastics.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes:
A lot of gas trapped, oil reserves tapped, and Live Nation gets a (tiny) cap
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work? 
How Iran?s flagging economy inflamed its protests 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-17
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Can anything save the news biz?

If you were in the business of making a bunch of money in 2026, you probably wouldn?t pick journalism. From social media to AI, the attention economy has upended the economic calculus for delivering news. But some entrepreneurs are looking to buck the trend.

Today on the show, we examine what the success of two startups could mean for the future of journalism.

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
A brief history of NPR funding 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-16
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A lot of gas trapped, oil reserves tapped, and Live Nation gets a (tiny) cap

It?s  Indicators of the Week (now on YouTube!), our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: How big is this gas crisis  and could releasing oil reserves help? Also, Live Nation gets a deal from the government.  

Related episodes: 
Are concert tickets UNDER priced? 
Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work? 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Julia Ritchey and Corey Bridges. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-13
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Should colleges accept money from bad people?

At a dinner in 2010, physicist Sean Carroll is handed a phone. On the other end: A wealthy patron looking to potentially fund his research. Months later came an invite to a conference. It would take place on an island. The caller was Jeffrey Epstein. Sean declined. Many others didn?t.

On today?s show, why did so many academics say yes to Epstein?s invites and money? And what Epstein?s ability to ingratiate himself with them reveals about how science research is funded.  

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! Twelve cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

Related episodes: 
What an Epstein recording reveals about how elites get jobs
American science brain drain

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

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2026-03-12
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The shadowy world of merchant cash advances

During the pandemic, mostly unregulated lenders went after struggling restaurants and music venues, charging at times sky high rates. Now, they?ve found a new market: small businesses that desperately need cash to pay tariffs.

Today on the show, the story of a financial lifeline that can turn into a financial choke hold.

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Three ways companies are getting around tariffs 

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2026-03-11
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Will Trump?s shipping insurance plan work?

More than a thousand ships are stranded outside the Strait of Hormuz, bobbing in the water. A big reason? Insurance. War insurance premiums have skyrocketed since the war with Iran began. It?s an add-on that covers things regular insurance doesn?t, like missile strikes. And shippers don?t want to foot the bill or put their crews at risk. Cue the traffic jam. 

On today?s show, how a critical trade chokepoint became the parking lot of the sea. And taking stock of President Trump?s plan to offer reinsurance to get these ships sailing again.

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2026-03-10
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No healthcare premiums? In this economy?! Here's how.

It turns out healthcare in America CAN be cheaper. If your employer wants it to be. Today on the show, we speak with a Canadian-founded startup that has unusually generous benefits for their employees. 

Come see Planet Money live on stage in April! 12 cities. Details and tix here: https://tix.to/pm-book-tour

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Health care costs are soaring. Blame insurers, drug companies ? and your employer
The hidden costs of healthcare churn

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2026-03-09
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Why are fewer Americans working the night shift?

The night shift isn?t for everyone, but it often means a boost in pay and a foot in the door. Yet a smaller share of Americans are working the graveyard shift than in decades past. Today on the show, where did all the third shift workers go? 

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2026-03-06
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Want a 2.5% mortgage? Buy it.

Remember those juicy mortgage rates from back in 2021? You don?t actually need a time machine to get one today. You just need to find someone willing to sell their house AND their mortgage to you. Called ?assumable mortgages,? they take a long time to get, and you?ll probably need a fat wad of cash.

On today?s show, how to buy your way into a cheap mortgage rate.

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How mortgage interest rates work (and why they're currently out of whack)

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2026-03-05
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The anxiety rattling China?s youth

China will soon unveil its economic blueprint for the next five years, including a target for economic growth. This comes as consumption is down, wages aren?t rising, and property prices continue to drop. So what?s the plan? Today, we hear from NPR?s China correspondent Jennifer Pak about the challenges facing China?s economic policymakers.

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com.

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What might save China?s economy
China?s luxury liquor indicator

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2026-03-04
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Why Paramount went looney tunes for Warner Bros.

Paramount Skydance is making a $110 billion play for Warner Bros. Discovery, and with it intellectual property like Harry Potter, Batman, and subsidiaries HBO and CNN. On today?s show, who is the man behind the deal? Does he really want to make movies? Will any regulators try to stop it? 

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com.

Related: 
The Warner Bros. curse (newsletter) 
Coyote vs. Warner Bros. 

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2026-03-03
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Should the families of organ donors be compensated?

Two economists get into the business?and stakes?of organ donation, and they argue why the government should financially compensate their families.

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com.

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Too many subscriptions, not enough organs 
Your Organs, Please 

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2026-03-02
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ICE is bad for business, heat is bad for coffee, and sci-fi is bad for markets

It?s ? Indicators of the Week (now on YouTube!), our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: How Minnesota workers were affected by Operation Metro Surge, why coffee?s getting more expensive, and what happens when a sci-fi AI scenario meets the stock market

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How ICE crackdowns are affecting the workforce

Why this rural town wants an ICE facility 

For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Julia Ritchey and Vito Emanuel. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

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2026-02-27
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How your favorite fish sticks might be funding Russia's war

Russia exports billions of dollars worth of fish a year across the world. But after the invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. banned imports of Russian fish. It turns out those bans are only so effective. Today on the show, how Russia has dodged import bans to keep selling billions of dollars worth of seafood every year, and how the U.S. has struggled to stop it.  

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com.

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How Russia?s shadow fleet is sailing around oil sanctions

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2026-02-26
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What an Epstein recording reveals about how elites get jobs

What do the latest batch of documents tell us about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and elite networking? Quite a bit. Today on the show, we analyze one exchange between Epstein and a former world leader to find out how the revolving door works for the rich and powerful.

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited-edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com

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Gilded Age 2.0?  
How close is the US to crony capitalism? 

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2026-02-25
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Do traders who place big bets make big money?

We?re going whale watching today. No, not orcas or great blues, but financial traders that place big bets on something called options. On today?s show, who are these option whales and do their bets always pay off? 

FYI, we are going on a book tour! Planet Money?s first ever book comes out in April. We?ll be celebrating in about a dozen cities. There?s a limited edition tote bag included with your ticket, while supplies last. Details, dates and how to get your ticket at planetmoneybook.com.  Related episodes: Invest like a Congress member  For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.

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2026-02-24
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Why there are roving rotisserie chicken mobs

You asked, we answered. 

On today?s show, we tackle questions from our dear listeners on whether AI interviewers are biased, what the heck M2 money supply is, and what?s up with the frenzied mobs fighting for rotisserie chickens at the grocery store. 

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Retirement luck, Hassett hassles the Fed, and boneless chicken in ... court? 
Behind the Tiny Desk and other listener questions 

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Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  

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2026-02-23
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Can I get my tariff money back now?

The Supreme Court struck down a bunch of President Trump?s tariffs yesterday. The Trump administration originally used an emergency economic powers law to justify the tariffs. And the court said: No! You can?t do that! Bad Trump, bad! This is despite the U.S. having raked in over a hundred billion dollars in import taxes already.

On today?s show, unpacking the Supreme Court?s blockbuster tariffs decision. What?s next for tariffs? And ? are we getting tariff refunds? Asking for a friend.

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2026-02-21
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Retirement luck, Hassett hassles the Fed, and boneless chicken in ... court?

It?s ? Indicators of the Week! Our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: Why you better hope you retire at juuuust the right time, why the researchers at the Federal Reserve are being scolded by a White House economic advisor, and taking boneless chicken to court. 

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Chicken meat, Gulf of Mexico lawsuit and Social Security beyond the grave 

Davos drama, credit card caps and tariff truths 

What would it take to fix retirement? 

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2026-02-20
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Why this rural town wants an ICE facility

The Trump administration is planning to pour more than $38 billion into warehouses for mass immigrant detention. While some communities are starting to push back, one rural town has agreed to expand its detention facility. On today?s show, we visit a small town in Georgia to learn about the trade-offs of becoming a detention town. 

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How ICE crackdowns are affecting the workforce 

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2026-02-19
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How well are ICE's 12,000 new officers being trained?

The Department of Homeland Security says it has more than doubled the workforce of Immigration and Customs Enforcement under President Trump. Yet videos of immigration officers killing two U.S. citizens and using aggressive arrest tactics have left some politicians and community leaders rethinking the agency?s approach. On today?s show, law enforcement experts assess the training and culture at DHS.  

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2026-02-18
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How Iran's flagging economy inflamed its protests

Editor's note: The United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran early Saturday, Feb. 28. For current coverage click here. For background context, the story below was published on Feb. 17, 2026.

According to activists, Iran has killed over 7,000 people as part of a crackdown on protesters. Why did protests engulf Iran in the first place? A big contributor: Its flagging economy, which has been in a tailspin for years. It?s a tinderbox.

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The Lost Plane

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2026-02-17
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Jobs numbers, immigrants in healthcare, and ... Jesus Christ?

It?s time for ? Indicators of the Week! Our weekly look at some of the most fascinating economic numbers from the news. 

On today?s episode: Analyzing the new jobs numbers, how letting in more immigrants could reduce elder mortality, and betting on the return of ? Jesus Christ. 

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Just how bad are these job numbers? 

A market to bet on the future 

Who's gonna take care of grandma?

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2026-02-13
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What it costs to be an elite figure skater like the 'Quad God'

Behind every Ilia Malinin or Alysa Liu, there is an army of elite figure skating coaches and choreographers who have been with them from the beginning. On today?s show, how much does it cost to achieve Olympic glory and why is it so expensive? 

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2026-02-12
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What is going on with gold and silver?

The prices of gold and silver are on rollercoaster rides; Gold has been rising over the last few years, silver shot up like a skyrocket in January ? but then both plunged in price and sputtered around the end of the month. 

It raises the question: What is going on? 

Today on the show, we talk with some traders about what this volatility of gold and silver is saying about the state of the world. 

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Why is everyone buying gold? 

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2026-02-11
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