Economy
Will Tweaking Windows 8 Be Enough To Revive The PC?
When Microsoft introduced Windows 8 last year, the software giant billed the new operating system as one of the most critical releases in its history. The system would bridge the gap between personal computers and the fast-growing mobile world of tablets and smartphones. But this week, the company sent signals that it might soon alter Windows 8 to address some early criticism.
Furloughs Only The Latest Blow To Federal Worker Morale
Government work was once synonymous with job security and stability. But these days furloughs, pay freezes and threats of further cuts are fomenting discontent. Some federal employees also say that public criticism of the federal government is also taking a toll.
Nearly Three Years After Dodd-Frank, Reforms Happen Slowly
The Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act was a sweeping legislative package designed to prevent another financial collapse. Journalist Gary Rivlin says passing the bill was just a first step in a long road to real reform, and the financial system is as vulnerable to disaster it was in 2008.
High Point Residents Invited to Dream Big
Residents of High Point are being asked to dream big for the future, starting with a series of discussions this week.
Portugal Struggles To Avoid 2nd Bailout
Portugal's creditors are evaluating the country's latest austerity package, which includes 30,000 public sector layoffs, to determine whether Lisbon might need a second international bailout. The Portuguese government is raising the retirement age and lengthening work weeks to try to squeeze out more revenue, and repay its bailout loans.
Some Net Retailers Aren't Buying Online Sales Tax Proposal
Proponents of the bill, currently before Congress, say collecting taxes from online sales should be relatively simple for retailers. But with close to 10,000 tax jurisdictions around the country, some online businesses say collecting the taxes and navigating potential problems will be a costly burden.
Chicago's Famed Field Museum Struggles To Dig Out Of A Hole
The museum, already hard-hit by the economic crash, didn't meet projected fundraising and attendance numbers, and now must make up a $5 million budget deficit. The shortfall forced it to sell some items in its renowned collection.
More Jobs, But Wait: They May Not Pay Much
While the economy added 165,000 jobs in April, a closer look shows that the biggest gains were in lower-paying fields like hospitality and temp agencies. And there's some question as to whether there will be enough jobs for students once the school year ends.
Obama Encourages U.S., Mexico To Focus On Economic Relations
President Barack Obama is in Mexico for talks with President Enrique Pena Nieto and a speech to young people. His trip aims to highlight the strong ties between the neighbors as well as the need for continuing cooperation on security and immigration matters.