This episode of The Indicator, a news/current affairs panel podcast, recaps top economic news. The hosts discuss the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady, focusing on the removal of the phrase "has made progress" from their statement on inflation, suggesting a less optimistic outlook. They then analyze the projected $26.9 billion cost of the Trump administration's proposed mass deportations, a figure significantly higher than previously reported, highlighting the potential strain on the DHS budget. Finally, the panel discusses the concerningly low math proficiency rates among 8th graders (28%), its potential impact on future earnings ($20,000 loss per student), and the need for improved math education, using Alabama's improved scores as a potential model.
