Publications

• All Publications, A-Z
• Books and Booklets
• About the Fed
• Economic Research and Data
• Community Development
• Banking
• Education
• Consumer Information

publications

The Regional Economist

April 2005

The Real Population Problem: Too Few Working, Too Many Retired

It's not the total number of people that should be causing worry, but the number of retired people relative to those still working.  Across the world, the ranks of retirees are swelling as the ranks of those working—and paying taxes to support retirees—are not keeping up.  Something—or someone—has got to give.

So Much for That Merit Raise: The Link between Wages and Appearance

If you think that your career advancement is based solely on your productivity, think again.  As hard as it may be for Horatio Alger fans to accept, workers who are taller, thinner or better looking than the rest of us can have an edge.

Basel II Will Trickle Down to Community Bankers, Consumers

Initially, Basel II will affect only the world's largest banking organizations.  Eventually, the impact will trickle down to others.  Some regional and community bankers, for example, might find it more difficult to survive.  Consumers, on the other hand, could wind up with lower rates on home mortgages.

President's Message: Basel II—Good for Banks, Good for Financial Stability

Community Profile: Charging Onward—MasterCard, WingHaven Fuel Growth Spurt for O'Fallon, Mo.

District Overview: Employment Trends Vary in Three of Missouri's Metro Areas

District Overview: Service Industries Keep Employment Steady in Arkansas’ Capital

National Overview: Economy's Expansion Puts Down Roots