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The Regional Economist

July 2011

Commodity Price Gains: Speculation vs. Fundamentals

Commodities of all sorts have risen in price over the past few years.  Some say that the prices reflect a bubble, driven by low interest rates and excessive speculation.  Others say the price gains can be fully explained by supply and demand. 

The Mismatch between Job Openings and Job Seekers

Today's high unemployment rate is often linked to a structural imbalance—a mismatch between the skills and location required to fill vacant jobs and the skills and geographical preferences of the unemployed.  But the evidence downplays the role of this mismatch.

The Foreclosure Crisis in 2008: Predatory Lending or Household Overreaching?

At least early in the financial crisis, the high rate of foreclosures seemed to be due more to households' overreaching than to predatory lending.  A disproportionate number of those being foreclosed on were well-educated, well-off and relatively young people.

President's Message: The Effectiveness of QE2

A Closer Look at House Price Indexes

Black/White Segregation in the Eighth District: A Look at the Dynamics

Community Profile: Du Quoin Strives To Diversify Beyond State Fair

National Overview: Recovery Continues despite New Risks, Old Problems

District Overview: Hispanics Play Different Role in District's Growth than in Nation's

Reader Exchange