Many economists today think it's a bad thing when companies cut costs to increase profits. But this is a good thing that limits wasteful spending while setting the stage for more investment elsewhere.
Government institutions, including central banks, have long been responsible for increases in the cost of living. But the burden often falls most on those who are just starting out in their adult lives.
The Greeks haven't saved or produced enough to justify their high standard of living compared to other countries of the world. This is a fragile bubble economy made possible by European central bankers.
The various levels of government in Canada have responded to the coronavirus pandemic. Their ill-advised solutions are to inflict economic hardship and withdraw civil liberties. The longer these authoritarian policies persist, the greater the risk to the social fabric.
David Gordon is not convinced by the usual arguments claiming property owners ought to be forced to sell their property for an arbitrarily determined "market price."
The US and the world will rise from this crisis. What the government has to do is allow it. The government is there to facilitate, not to pick winners and losers.
The idea that a free and mostly privatized society would let pandemics rage unchecked is based on a crude caricature. The truth is that a free society offers flexibility and resilience that a centralized system lacks.
Bernie Sanders wants a tax on financial transactions so that every trade brings a penalty. While this most directly affects big traders, regular people will not be immune to the effects.
Anti-price gouging laws mean that those who really end up getting the short end of the stick are those who don't have the time or the means to beat the crowds to the store. Worse off are those of lesser means who rely on public transportation or walking to transport groceries home.
Taiwan's response to COVID-19 mostly means self-imposed quarantines and more transparency. It's basically the opposite of what Europe is doing.
