Mike Walden
Local economist and commentator
Latest stories
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Mike Walden: Should young workers be angry about the economy?
Perhaps ironically, a recent study showed Gen Z is saving more as a percentage of their paychecks than any other generation.
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Mike Walden: 'Wait and see' on big financial decisions in coming months
The NCSU INDEX OF NORTH CAROLINA LEADING ECONOMIC INDICATORS (the “Index”), an indicator of the direction of the state economy, declined slightly in August, the latest month with available data.
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Mike Walden: Is that debt worth it? Here are two ways to decide
Borrowing is a tactic that can be best be justified when the spending is used for something that provides value and use over time.
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Mike Walden: Is the housing market improving for buyers?
If you’re in the market to buy a home, continue to watch trends in construction and prices. There may be some good news ahead.
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Mike Walden: NC economic outlook steady amid uncertainty
Economist Mike Walden offers insights into North Carolina's steady economic outlook despite global uncertainties.
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Mike Walden: Can we make sense and cents about the federal debt?
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) aims to tackle the federal debt by reducing federal spending, yet faces challenges in attaining clarity amidst complex economic terminology and public confusion.
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Mike Walden: Why is the "r word" back?
While there’s no firm evidence we are currently in a recession, there are enough worries about the economy that the question cannot be discarded.
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Mike Walden: What egg prices teach us about the economy
Soaring egg prices offer a lesson in economic principles, especially the balance of supply and demand.
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Mike Walden: Expect AI to transform NC's economic powerhouses of tobacco, textiles, technology
North Carolina's economy has undergone significant transformations, from its agrarian roots to a manufacturing powerhouse, and now to a hub for technology and pharmaceuticals. As AI technologies advance, economist Mike Walden explores whether these innovations will trigger another economic shift.
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Mike Walden: What is the status of manufacturing in North Carolina?
The sector has rebounded post-pandemic, yet trails behind national growth. Walden discusses the potential impact of emerging technologies, including AI, on revitalizing North Carolina's manufacturing scene.
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Mike Walden: What does it take to get ahead?
People define success individually. But, in the view of many, a core part of success is earning enough to be financially independent and able to afford the necessities of life.
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Mike Walden: Are tariffs the answer?
Tariff talk has increased in recent months, and the talk will likely continue into next year. Watch for the details and attempt to read the nuances so you can decide where you stand on this long-used and debated economic tactic.
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NC drivers to spend more on gas in 2023 under new tax rate
The new year means new tax rates. For North Carolina drivers, that will mean higher gas prices.
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NC State economist predicts we'll have to 'tighten our belts' for inflation
Two new reports tracking inflation in the U.S. are due Wednesday morning.
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NCSU professor predicts weaker job growth for June report
NC State economics professor Mike Walden gives his thoughts on what the June jobs report will reveal when it comes out on Friday morning.
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NCSU Index shows economic pullback in North Carolina
All economic indicators tracked in a monthly index that forecasts the future of North Carolina's economy experienced a pullback in May 2022.
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NC economist 'optimistic' gas prices will keep falling
There's been a 30-cent drop in gas prices across the country since last month, according to GasBuddy.com.
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Economist: Apple campus will attract more companies to Triangle
N.C. State University's Dr. Michael L. Walden talks about how Monday's big Apple news is just the beginning for the Triangle.
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Report has NC best in South for business, No. 6 in the nation
According to a new report, North Carolina is an attractive place for business.
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Tariffs on Mexican imports will touch food, autos, homes in NC
Unless negotiators can come to a deal over the weekend, a 5 percent tariff on goods imported from Mexico will take effect Monday.
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Editorial: Trump's tariffs yield truth deficit
Tuesday, May 21, 2019 -- China does not pay a penny in tariffs. Tariffs are paid by companies in the United States that import goods and products FROM China. Those importers pass those costs, in the form of higher prices for goods and products, to the American businesses and consumers that buy them. Who's hurt by tariffs? North Carolina farmers, investors, retailers and consumers.
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Mike Walden: Will Trump lower prices?
Information about Mike Walden: Will Trump lower prices?
