Economy

Inflation is so low that it's nearly nonexistent now. But it most certainly wasn't always that way. The Planet Money team tells the story of former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker's wild fight against inflation, his radical idea, and how the U.S. tamed inflation — maybe for good.

The council on Monday passed a first-of-its-kind ordinance that makes it possible for drivers with ride-hailing companies, such as Uber, to unionize and collectively bargain for better pay.

Many construction companies are still recovering from the housing crash, and while buyers don't seem pressured by a looming Federal Reserve decision, higher rates would make mortgages less affordable.

The Federal Reserve has held interest rates at super low levels for years in an effort to bolster the economy, but it is expected to raise rates for the first time in seven years this week.

Utah has reduced its chronically homeless population by 91 percent since 2005. But like many places, it lacks affordable housing, leaving more than 14,000 people in the state homeless this year.

Canada's potentially lucrative oil sands business faces serious economic challenges. It has some concerned about its future as environmental critics look for ways to keep the oil in the ground.

Increased electric car sales are good for a country with a big pollution problem. Until recently only a few clean cars were on the road. The sales are also a bright spot for China's economy.