The Biggest Tax Season Threat Isn’t an IRS Audit

 

Tax season for 2024 has begun and while many people worry about IRS audits, a bigger risk is tax-identity theft. Scammers are targeting personal information and it has been recorded that recent data breach has exposed 2.9 billion records including Social Security numbers. With more than 140 million individuals filing for tax, nearly 40% of taxpayers relying on refunds to make ends meet. This threat is a serious economic concern. Fraudulent activities could potentially decrease total tax revenue or cause individuals who rely on refunds to incur extra debt while working to resolve these issues.

To protect yourself, it is important to file your tax return early and consider using an IRS identity protection PIN. Filing early can help prevent fraudsters from using your Social Security number to file a fake return. If you decide to work with a tax professional, make sure they use secure online processes rather than email to share sensitive information. Check that your tax preparer signs your tax returns with a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and use trusted directories like the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers to verify their credentials.

Staying alert to scams is also essential. The IRS typically communicates by mail and does not send initial messages via email or text. So if you receive an unexpected message claiming to be from the IRS and asking for personal or financial details, do not click on any links or provide your information. Scammers may promise large refunds, credits, or even pandemic-related payments as a trick.   Understanding these risks is important because identity theft can lead to significant financial problems.  

source 

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/07/its-tax-season-prepare-for-fake-irs-emails-texts-scams.html

 

Rising Tensions Regarding the Panama Canal

    In recent years, the cost of using the Panama Canal has risen. The rising fees were not much of a concern until President Trump asserted the rise had been "excessive," accusing the canal operators of overcharging American shipping companies. Additionally, there has been fear among politicians concerning the potential control China may have over the canal since China recently funded its infrastructure; additionally, a company based in Hong Kong is responsible for the canal operation on both sides, thus creating fear among politicians about China's control over the canal.     Although the canal's revenues have risen faster than traffic, the President of Panama has claimed that the increased prices are due to the country's issues with droughts and their investments in upgrades and general maintenance to keep the canal in smooth operating condition. In the 12 months through September, tools and service fees were calculated to be 62% higher than five years earlier; passages rose only 2% during that period. Although there is an additional fee placed on the products imported through the canal, the cost is more minor compared to the expectations of some consumers, such as an extra $11 for a French door refrigerator that sells for over $1,000 and 10 cents for a $40 coffee maker. However, if Trump were to get lower tool fees as he demands, the average American consumer's savings would be minuscule due to a decreased tool.     As a result of increased prices and security concerns, President Trump threatened to reclaim the Panama Canal and stated that "military force is not out of the question" when speaking to reporters. The President of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, addressed Trump's threats and asserted that "there is no question that Panama operates the canal and will continue to be so." With the introduction of tariffs against Canada and Mexico and now growing tensions between Trump and the President of Panama, there are increasing concerns for the imports and exports of the U.S. economy in the upcoming months. The canal is crucial for the U.S. economy, as it permits a shorter route between the East Coast and Asia than traveling across the Atlantic. Additionally, 40% of U.S. container traffic and energy exports travel through the canal, and damaged relations with Panama would result in more expensive imports if the situation were to escalate. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/03/business/economy/panama-canal-fees.html

DeepSeek causes a Deep Sink in the US Stock Market

DeepSeek recently released globally, and the US Stock Market took a massive hit. DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company, produced a chatbot that runs on significantly cheaper equipment than that of Open AI, Google, Microsoft, etc. It initially was said to produced and trained for about $5.6M.

NVIDIA, who had been a force in the market during 2024, took a $560B market cap hit - and the market was down 600 points during the day. 

As the week has gone on, more and more people have looked into DeepSeek, and how it was even possible that it was produced for that cheap. After some investigation, multiple experts are estimating DeepSeek actually costed about $1B to produce. While still significantly cheaper than development costs for other US AI's, the alarm bells may not be as bad as initially anticipated.

NVIDIA has responded while posting a relatively strong week, up 3%. While still not to the levels it was before DeepSeek was released, it is a good sign for the US Stock Market and AI alike. The market has stabilized after its free fall on the 27th of January.

The jury is still out on what the implications of DeepSeek will be. The US Government is pushing to get it banned from government devices, but we will wait and see if it can beat the AI giants of the US, or if it will be another failed attempt to disrupt the industry.

https://www.visualcapitalist.com/deepseek-tanks-stock-market-nvidia/

https://www.afr.com/markets/equity-markets/us5-6m-probably-100-times-that-says-fundie-of-deepseek-price-tag-20250131-p5l8mj

Economy Bessent says Trump is focused on the 10-year Treasury yield and won’t push the Fed to cut rates

 President Trump wants to lower rates, Bessent says he will do so by using the 10-year treasury bond, not the federal funds rate. In September, the Fed used a rare-cutting cycle to lower the fed funds rate by 100 basis points. Trump believes that if they deregulate the economy, the rates will take care of themselves. The 10-year last traded at 4.45%. Trump not commanding the Fed to lower rates could ease tension between the two.

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/06/bessent-says-trump-is-focused-on-the-10-year-yield-wont-push-fed-to-cut-rates.html

Trump’s Foreign Aid Freeze and Its Impact on Haiti

President Trump has implemented a 90-day freeze on all foreign aid, raising concerns beyond the implications for the Ukraine war. Many countries that the U.S. has been assisting are now facing significant challenges, particularly Haiti. There, a U.N.-backed mission aimed at combating gang violence in the capital was impacted. While the mission relies mainly on volunteer assistance, support from the U.S. and Kenya has been crucial. With the aid freeze, $13.3 million in funds is now unavailable, threatening the effectiveness of forces on the ground. Gangs already control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, and without the necessary funding, the situation could deteriorate further. 

Additionally, the aid freeze affects humanitarian efforts. U.S. support for health and social programs, including child care, food assistance, and medical treatments, has all come to a halt, jeopardizing vital initiatives. Some argue this might push Haiti’s government to take more responsibility, but given the country's systemic instability, international support remains essential. This crisis highlights the dangers of heavy reliance on U.S. aid and raises discussions on sustainable development and alternative global partnerships. 

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has proposed a waiver for life-saving programs, but there is confusion regarding qualifications for exemptions from the stop-work orders. This situation exemplifies the dependence some countries have on foreign aid. While U.S. assistance has been critical in Haiti, experts argue that the country must focus on governance reforms and economic self-sufficiency to reduce reliance on external support. 

I believe that some countries do need foreign aid to help combat national problems; however, the issue arises when they become dependent on that aid. The moment the aid is withdrawn, the country is left struggling. I think more stable nations should establish guidelines to provide aid through structured programs for struggling nations. However, they cannot take the lead on these efforts; countries must also take action alongside this aid to start building a stable foundation. This way, when the aid is no longer available, they are not left vulnerable. Haiti is a prime example: its long-term stability requires both internal reforms and diversified international support. We must learn to approach these situations differently to prevent countries from becoming reliant on foreign aid.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/haiti-un-us-halt-aid-trump-e32763c0446b268b421f3b409c4dc147

The Future that Amazon sees in Ohio

 The Future that Amazon sees in Ohio

    Recently, Amazon has spent over $100 million to purchase land for data centers in Fayette County right next to Honda and LG’S battery plant, and this isn’t the only sizable piece of land they have bought in this area. By 2030, Fayette County expects to see $5 billion spent on construction for the new data centers. These data centers are physical facilities that store the hardware and equipment that powers Amazon's cloud computing services. This new center will be the company’s first data center outside of central Ohio, and is projected to create more than 100 Amazon jobs and support others throughout the supply chain. According to the company, they plan to expand their statewide footprint in up to eight new locations. This influx of data centers around the greater Columbus area is expected to eat up so much energy that demand for power in the region will be similar to all of Manhattan by 2030. According to American Electric Power, their transmission system in central Ohio was serving about 600 megawatts from data centers which is enough to power 250,000 homes. 

    I think that the industrial developments around central Ohio show definite promise for a great future, but I worry that too much development could drive people away from the area in the future. I just always think of the guy who cut down all the trees in the Lorax, causing all the little bears to leave their home. Luckily we have government policies that would hopefully stop any sort of situation like that from happening, but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen to a certain extent. I know Intel is building two semiconductor chip factories in New Albany which will also be great for employment, but I wonder what the impact on other things like the environment this will have on the surrounding area. For right now, Columbus shows lots of promise as a place to find a job and make a decent living. I think it will be interesting to hee how sustainable some of these new factories are in retaining the growth and prosperity that we see within Columbus today.    

Can Money Fix a Season? Manchester City's $223 Million Gamble

Manchester City's January Spending Spree: Economic Implications for Football

    The 2025 Premier League January transfer window ran from January 1 to February 3. One club in particular, Manchester City, took advantage of the window by using a different strategy than the club typically has used in the past. The reigning champions, who are pursuing their fifth consecutive Premier League title, spent near-record amounts during this transfer period. This bold move offers insights into football economics and the financial operations of top clubs. City's unusual January activity comes from a challenging season, as they trail Liverpool by 15 points and face the risk of an early Champions League exit. Their actions demonstrate how on-field performance can drive significant financial decisions, even for a club accustomed to success.

    City bought Omar Marmoush (£60m), Abdukodir Khusanov (£40m), and Vitor Reis (£30m), aiming to address both current needs and long-term plans. This spending was largely funded through player sales, including Julián Álvarez's £81m move to Atletico Madrid and the sale of academy graduates. Notably, the club has generated significant profit from academy sales, potentially totaling £276m in the past five years. This strategy highlights the value of developing and selling players to stay financially flexible under league rules, with academy sales counted as pure profit in terms of Profit and Sustainability (PSR) rules.

    City's spending makes up nearly half of the Premier League's January transfers. While the other 19 clubs spent £270 million combined, City alone spent £223 million, with £130 million going to just three players. This large investment can affect player values and transfer fees across football, showing how one club's decisions can impact the whole market.

Read more about Manchester City's transfer strategy here

    As football evolves, money management is becoming important for success on the field. It'll be interesting to see if City's big spending can save their season. Other clubs, like Chelsea in 2023, have tried this with mixed results. The next few months will show if City's huge investment pays off or becomes another warning story in football economics.

Extreme Concern Regarding Tariffs Within Wall Street

On Monday, Wall Street visibly showed their concerns for President Trump’s tariffs, as stock prices declined sharply in U.S stock markets. S&P 500 dropped by 0.8%, Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped .28% and Nasdaq by 1.2%. The main concern was that the tariffs could lead to higher prices for goods like groceries and electronics, ultimately raising inflation and halting the Federal Reserve's efforts to lower interest rates. Tech companies were hit the hardest however, as those who are sensitive to higher rates fear the negative effects global trade could have on corporate profit. 

Stocks were able to recover after Mexico announced its one month delay on tariffs following discussions with Trump. This indicated some optimism that tariffs could potentially be a negotiation strategy rather than a permanent policy. Some industries are very reliant on Canada’s crude oil for example, which causes panic and a widespread concern when the topic of tariffs is mentioned.

Monday’s  market activity highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the tariffs and their economic consequences. Global markets also saw losses, with significant declines in Europe and Asia. The upcoming week will feature crucial economic reports and earnings reports from major companies, which will likely further influence the attitude of the market.

Link : https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/02/02/wall-street-falls-following-trumps-tariffs-but-not-as-badly-as-feared-in-the-morning/ 

China factory activity growth slows again as Trump tariffs loom

China’s factory growth slowed down in January with the Caixin PMI dropping slightly to 50.1. It’s still growing, but just barely. A big reason for this slowdown is trade uncertainty, which has led to the biggest drop in factory jobs in almost five years. Some companies are stockpiling products because they’re worried about possible U.S. tariffs, but at the same time export orders are shrinking, and manufacturers are being forced to lower prices to stay competitive. It’s clear China’s manufacturing sector is feeling the pressure, and if they want to stay strong, they’ll need to adapt and this could maybe be done by trading with more countries, investing in new technology, or focusing more on selling within China instead of relying so much on exports.

 https://finance.yahoo.com/news/china-factory-activity-growth-slows-015509187.html

Ontario to remove U.S. alcohol from shelves after Trump’s tariffs announcement

President Trump has always emphasized to keep our country American named and American owned. Recently he enacted the "America First" agenda putting tariffs on our top trade partners. Ever since he signed for this executive decision there has been a great amount of backlash. Specifically one of our highest Alcohol trade partners, The Liquor Control Board of Ontario, has announced they move to pull all American alcohol from their shelves and will take American products out of their catalogue so no retailers can restock. Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced this after the Prime Minister requested 25% of all U.S. goods. Ford states that "Every year, LCBO sells nearly $1 billion worth of American wine, beer, spirts and seltzers." The LBCO is Americas second main expert in Canada with a 25.9 million trade value. This move from the LBCO has influenced other Canadian Premier's to retaliate against Trumps tariffs. Premier Tim Houston directing the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation is removing all American alcohol from their shelves. Also, actions have came arise in other areas as well. British Columbian David Eby of  BC Liquor Distribution took perhaps a more fair action and announced that they plan to "immediately stop buying American liquor from "red states' and removes the top-selling "red-state" brands from the shelves.

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/02/02/ontario-to-remove-us-alcohol-from-shelves-after-trumps-tariffs-announcement.html

Trump’s 2017 tax cuts expire soon − study shows they made income inequality worse and especially hurt Black Americans

             The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, signed by Donald Trump in 2017, is set to expire on December 31, 2024. While it was the most extensive tax overhaul since Reagan's administration, it primarily favored corporations, wealthy individuals, and tax partnerships, with over 80% of the cuts directed to these groups. Despite promises of middle-class relief, the advantages were modest, and the law added $1.9 trillion to the national deficit. Its helpful impact on Black, middle-income, and low-income taxpayers was particularly limited, exacerbating existing economic inequalities. As Republicans negotiate new tax policies in 2025, lessons from the 2017 reforms remain critical. Trump's tax cuts deepened racial income and wealth disparities, as the corporate tax savings primarily benefited wealthy shareholders rather than the broader population. In the U.S., most shareholders are corporations, pension funds, and wealthy individuals, which are predominantly composed of white Americans. Trump's tax cuts required the IRS to calculate inflation adjustments using the Chained CPI. Many consumers had to switch to cheaper alternatives as prices rose. For instance, it assumed shoppers would buy pork instead of beef as they tried to minimize the perceived impact of inflation. In addition, this approach resulted in smaller inflation adjustments, disproportionately affecting low-income communities with limited access to budget-friendly alternatives. Since Black Americans are more likely than low-income white Americans to live in underserved neighborhoods, they have been more severely impacted by rising prices. Finally, with the Trump tax cuts set to expire, Congress can reassess their impact and address the inequalities they worsened. By crafting policies that promote fairness, lawmakers should work toward a tax system that supports all Americans more effectively. 

Link To Article:

https://theconversation.com/trumps-2017-tax-cuts-expire-soon-study-shows-they-made-income-inequality-worse-and-especially-hurt-black-americans-233758

Norway plans to virtually erase gasoline and diesel cars from its streets

By the end of 2025, Norwegian officials believe that 95 to 100% of cars on their roads will be electric vehicles. Data published by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration found that EVs accounted for more than 96% of new cars sold in the first few weeks of this year, an astonishing number. Norway has long been recognized as an advocate of sustainable transportation and a leader in clean energy with almost all of its electricity coming from renewable resources and its new car sales solidify its citizens involvement in helping the country uphold these goals. Norway's success with transitioning to EVs comes even without a federal mandate that its citizens must switch to them, but rather long term and consistent policies that have supported the uptake in EVs. Some policies applied to their EV owners include discounts on road parking taxes. Norway is a definitive leader is clean energy and is an excellent model for many other countries to follow. 

These astounding numbers from Norway also come in light of newly elected President Trumps recent withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Trumps decision to withdraw has been heavily criticized by many advocates of clean and renewable energy. Will Norway's push to use clean and renewable energy be enough to help our planet or will it at least promote the use of clean energy in other countries? Although Norway has posted very impressive numbers, I believe it will take more than a few countries to promote clean energy usage to actually have a significant impact on the planet as a whole in the long run.

Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/28/norway-set-to-be-the-first-to-fully-transition-to-electric-vehicles.html

Study reveals flaws in Ohio's retail electricity marketplace

 A very timely report by a group of OSU researchers on the state of the retail electricity market in Ohio. This ties very closely to our discussion of perfect markets and what the necessary conditions are for markets to be efficient. This is a clear case where deregulation of the market was supposed to create fierce competition and a more efficient allocation of electricity. It turns out that consumers lack the necessary information to make decisions and what we end up with is called a market failure....we will cover this later in the week. 

You can listen to the report instead of reading the article...just under 5 minutes.

Arabica Coffee Prices Hit New High on U.S., Colombia Tariff Spat

 Link: https://www.wsj.com/economy/trade/arabica-coffee-prices-hit-new-high-on-u-s-colombia-tariff-spat-582446fe?mod=economy_lead_story

President Trump’s imposition of tariffs, or the threat of tariffs, has already proven to be a powerful bargaining tool when it comes to trade. President Trump had threatened to impose tariffs on Colombia up to 25% in retaliation for the Colombian government refusing two planes with migrants to land. The article doesn’t elaborate on the plane fiasco, but does say that the two countries came to a resolution as the tariffs would be “held in reserve” unless Colombia breaks their end of the deal. The consequence of the tariffs led to a 40% increase in price for the coffee (the US imports about 30% of its coffee from Colombia). 

The tariffs help shed some light on potential issues that could be looming over commodity markets in Canada, Mexico and China. Potential tariffs on imports from these countries is likely to lead to increased volatility around trade in the coming weeks. With Mexico and Canada being the US’s biggest trading partners this could lead to major disruptions in markets that are already experiencing heightened prices.

The main reason why this article caught my attention is because I am still very curious about how tariffs will affect the US and the rest of the world in the coming years. It has already proven to have great effects but there are differing opinions on whether or not the effects are positive or negative and just how far will it be used simply as a threat?

Connecting the World's Grids for Cheaper and Greener Energy

Less than 3% of all power crosses a border, leading to high prices and inefficiencies worldwide. Energy prices in Norway have been spiking as of late as the normally windy North Sea has turned calm, resulting in their reliance on wind power to come back to haunt them. Politicians are proposing the idea of connecting international cables to curb problems like this.

The idea is that when there is a windy day in Norway and they have an excess amount of power, they can send it to another country where whatever renewable source they use is not in excess. In simplified terms, power can flow from where it is cheap to where it is costlier. This would allow for cheaper energy on both sides of the cable and help in cutting greenhouse gas emissions. 

Norway does have state-owned power plants unlike the United States whose energy giants would never allow an efficient service like this. An additional worry is the potential for sabotaging the lines due to political differences like the Taiwanese subsea communication link that may have been this month.  

https://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/01/23/to-make-electricity-cheaper-and-greener-connect-the-worlds-grids

New Orleans Super Bowl Implications

 The Super Bowl is one of the most watched sporting events in the world, and this year, it's being held in the Big Easy. New Orleans, already a bustling tourist destination, will host the biggest sporting event in the United States. Last year, the Super Bowl generated $480M in economic impact. The estimations for this year are nearing $600M. The Super Bowl falls right in the middle of "Mardi Gras season", New Orleans's busiest time of year. Restaurants, bars, gift shops, and everything in between will see a massive revenue boost with the increased number of people. More shifts will be worked, more foot traffic and many more drunkards will be recklessly spending their money - all boosting the economy! New Orleans also recently hosted the Sugar Bowl - with Notre Dame and Georgia facing off in a battle on January 2nd.

I had the chance to speak with some business owners in New Orleans, and they mentioned this time of year is huge for them usually from Mardi Gras, but with the Super Bowl added on top, they are expecting to do very well over the coming weeks.

The Super Bowl will be a fantastic mood lifter for New Orleans after the tragic terrorist attack on New Year's Day in the French Quarter. 

Source: How New Orleans is transforming Super Bowl 2025

After the wildfires: What a long rebuilding process will look like for Los Angeles homeowners

 The rebuilding process in Los Angeles following the wildfires will likely focus on integrating fire-resistant building techniques, implementing stricter zoning laws to limit construction in high-risk areas, and providing financial aid to homeowners through state relief packages. With around 12,000 buildings destroyed and damaged, which is estimated to be around 40 billion dollars' worth of damage. "“Rebuilding the homes themselves actually is the easy part,” said Tom Grable, division president, Orange County-Los Angeles, for Nevada-based Tri Pointe Homes. “The much harder part is what it’s going to take to bring those lots back to buildable form,”. In order to get to accelerate the cleanup and rebuilding processes, Mayor Karen Bass has issued executive orders like, California Environmental Quality Act and the California Coastal Act. Homeowner are using the California FAIR Plan "“the FAIR Plan had just $377 million available to pay claims and has $5.75 billion in reinsurance available,”. Overall, the process of getting new houses up will take a long time but eventually they will get the land back with houses and buildings back up as soon at the land is cured. 

Article - How Los Angeles will rebuild homes after the wildfires

How Disagreements Between The US and Columbia Over Immigration Policy Can Impact US Consumers

 President Trump has said that the US will impose retaliatory measures against Columbia in response to their blocking of two migrant deportation flights being carried out by the US military. The measures include a 25% tariff on all Columbian goods entering the US, which would increase to 50% after one week, a travel ban and visa revocations against Columbian officials, as well as emergency treasury, banking and financial sanctions.

These actions would be taken against the US’ third largest trading partner in Latin America. The US and Columbia share a 2006 trade agreement, in 2023, there was $33.8 billion worth of two-way trade between the two countries, including a $1.6 billion US trade surplus. The biggest imports from Columbia to the US include crude oil, gold, coffee, and cut roses.

Columbia’s resistance to US migrant deportations are an example of growing discontent amongst the rest of Latin America to US immigration policy. Along with condemnation and resistance from Columbia’s President, Brazil’s foreign ministry spoke out against the policy, calling it “degrading treatment”. Additionally, Mexico refused a request allowing a US military aircraft carrying migrants to land, though President Trump has not taken action against them, the US’ largest trading partner.

It will be interesting to watch how the US will respond to Latin American resistance to its immigration policies, especially against countries that conduct significant trade with the US. Tariffs on products such as coffee and crude oil could have inflationary effects, resulting in US consumers seeing higher prices at both the grocery store and gas pump.

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/26/colombia-turns-away-military-deportation-flights-from-us-officials-say.html

 

Zanzibar to generate 200 megawatts of wind power

 In a major move toward renewable energy, Zanzibar has announced plans to generate 200 megawatts of wind power, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to adopt sustainable energy solutions. According to The Citizen, the project will involve the construction of wind farms in key locations, providing clean and reliable energy for both residential and industrial use.

This initiative is critical in reducing Zanzibar’s reliance on fossil fuels, which currently dominate the energy sector. The shift to wind power will help combat climate change and improve energy security and stability across the region. With global energy prices fluctuating, tapping into renewable resources offers a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

Once operational, the wind farms are expected to have far-reaching benefits. For households, this means more affordable electricity and fewer power outages. For businesses, reliable energy can increase productivity and reduce operational costs. The project is also anticipated to create hundreds of jobs during the construction and maintenance phases, offering opportunities for local communities to benefit economically.

Experts believe this project could position Zanzibar as a renewable energy leader in East Africa. By prioritizing clean energy, the region has the potential to attract foreign investment, boost its economy, and inspire neighboring countries to follow suit. However, successful implementation will require careful planning, efficient execution, and long-term maintenance to ensure the project achieves its goals.

Zanzibar’s ambitious wind power initiative is a beacon of hope for sustainable development in the region. As the world continues to embrace renewable energy, projects like this highlight the importance of transitioning to cleaner, greener alternatives. With the right policies and partnerships in place, Zanzibar is poised to set a powerful example for other nations in the fight against climate change.

https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/zanzibar/zanzibar-to-generate-200-megawatts-of-wind-power-4900352

Trump issuing ‘emergency 25% tariffs’ against Colombia after country turned back deportation flights

After the president of Columbia blocked a US military plane from landing, Trump threatened retaliatory tariffs on them. He said they would start at 25% and then be raised to 50% in the country. He also noted that there may be a travel ban to the country. I wonder if he would actually do this to a specific country and what the implications would be for the economies of both countries.

Trump's Second Term Tarrifs

     A large part of President Trump's campaign platform was his emphasis on reshoring American manufacturing, including the promise of a 10 to 20% charge on imported goods. However, as he entered office, aggressive as many of his first actions were, he took a surprisingly slow approach to tariffs. Instead of the broad and universal tariffs of the caimpaigns, he has been using them as "negotiation tools" or threats, aiming to get other countries in line with his own foreign policy and trade goals. He has threatened Russia in order to secure a ceasefire with Ukraine, and planned tarrifs for Canada and Mexico, whihc can be used as leverage to ensure Trump's border goals.  There are signs, such as feaseability assessments, which point to the Trump administration exercising previosuly unseen caution in pursing their economic agenda (at least in this area). This caution may be due to internal skepticism of the viability and harm of tarrifs by senior officials, as well as corporate executives in Trump's circle. 

According to Trump's nominee for Secreatry of the Treasury, Scott Bessent, one of the other goals of tarrifs- besides acting as an effective threat- is still to bring manufacturing back to America. The simple and repeated economic arguement is that making foreign goods more expensive would encourage state side production, and bring back American jobs. Trump in the past had critized other efforts to bring American manufacturing to the forefront again, such as the CHIPS act of the Biden administration, believing that tarriffs were cheaper and more effective. However it seems that in office, Trump will likely keep funding rolling for the act, which has broad bipartisan support. 

    There is hope that these actions point to Trump pursuing a less aggressive tarriff policy and perhaps continuing to use tarrifs mostly as threats. The article in the Times predicts that if enacted tarrifs start to encurr the negative effects economics predict, such as higher prices and inflation, this means he will likely pull back. If this is the case however, the administration will have to find other ways to fund its massive tax cuts, and may mean proposing cuts to massively popular programs like Medicaid. 

NYT "Why Tarrifs Are Different"  

TSMC is confident its CHIPS Act funding will continue under Trump, says CFO Wendell Huang

Trump Discusses the Future of FEMA

    FEMA, otherwise known as the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has been responsible for supporting state and local officials in instances of disaster relief, however, under the Trump administration that may change. Recently reelected President Donald Trump suggested that the services provided by FEMA should be shuttered and the states should be responsible for their disaster relief policies and programs. Trump believes that the states would outperform FEMA, FEMA should be terminated and direct funding for disaster relief should directly be provided for the states.

    Luckily congressional action would have to be taken for FEMA to be dismantled. Historically FEMA has been a very reliable backstop for disaster relief since 1979 and is supported by Democrats and Republicans alike so the future of FEMA may still be up for debate. However, many FEMA managers have been advocating for FEMA reforms since the agency's resources have been so extended. Many arguing the issue of FEMA strain is a result of the state's lack of disaster relief programs and policies, while others debate that FEMA is applying its already strained resources on projects that should be covered by other agencies, projects such as managing the federal government’s response to the pandemic under the Trump administration or helping shelter unaccompanied minors at the southern border. As a result of growing tensions regarding FEMA and its overloaded workers, we are likely to see reforms to this agency or its destruction. 

 

Trump routinely calls economic data ‘fake.’ Here’s why that’s dangerous

Federal economic data is at greater risk as federal statistical agencies face mounting challenges under a potentially more austere environment, driven in part by President Trump’s criticism of government data and the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency’s efforts to streamline operations. Experts like former BLS commissioners Erica Groshen and William Beach warn that reduced funding, declining response rates to surveys, and heightened political scrutiny threaten the accuracy and consistency of federal statistics. This data—often called a form of national infrastructure—guides policymaking, business decisions, and public advocacy; without it, both government and private entities risk making uninformed choices. Meanwhile, broader cuts to discretionary spending could further endanger essential data-collection programs, with potential fallout including the erasure of information on already marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ+ communities. Advocates emphasize that robust, reliable federal data is crucial for identifying economic inequities and crafting solutions; to this end, some organizations are archiving government websites and pushing for legislation to preserve statistical agencies. Suggestions include consolidating these agencies under an independent office led by a chief statistician, modernizing survey methodologies, and exploring partnerships with universities to keep critical data flowing.

Link: 

https://tinyurl.com/v3cp9wbz

AI in 2025

     One of the most successful investment banks, Goldman Sachs, is thinking ahead to the future at where they want to be at with Artificial Intelligence. Their Chief Information Officer has declared that in 2025 he is will implement Large Language Models(LLMs). This type of Intelligence is a model that uses deep learning to process natural language and used to generate, translate, and answer questions. This gives AI the abilities of a human worker. So what does that mean for actual human workers? 

    There is talk of hybrid workforce. AI will be treated more like employees and will work in a team with human workers. This brings a whole different side to a business. You will need people educated in AI in order to manage human and AI collaborations. Another aspect is Human Resources. Will there be HR for AI? If a Intelligence system is underperforming they might get removed or replaced with better AI and you need someone educated in AI to test this. 

77% of companies are either using AI or exploring AI. How will this look on the economy?  In the book the Work of the Future, the authors main point they argue is the AI will reduce middle skilled jobs. This is going to leave a lot of workers left behind. But they specify that we need to be ready for that and have better job direction for these kind of workers. 

    There is no question AI will take some jobs in the Labor Force. It will shift the demand for jobs and may potentially increase inequality. But it will give arise to a whole new swarm of AI related jobs and take over routine repetitive jobs. It will make industries more efficient and hopefully create new industries that may spur economic growth.

https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262547307/the-work-of-the-future/

https://www.goldmansachs.com/insights/articles/what-to-expect-from-ai-in-2025-hybrid-workers-robotics-expert-models

U.S. Home Sales Hit Their Lowest Level in Nearly 30 Years

   In 2024, U.S. home sales fell to their lowest level since 1995, with only 4.06 million existing homes, including single-family houses, condos, and townhouses sold, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Experts attribute this slowdown to persistently high mortgage rates and a limited housing inventory, both of which have contributed to record-high home prices. The median home price reached $407,500 in 2024, further straining affordability, especially for millennials who are entering their prime home-buying years.

    Despite the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates three times last year and planning two additional cuts in 2025, mortgage rates have remained stubbornly high, averaging around 7% for a 30-year loan. Many homeowners who secured much lower rates of 2-3% before 2022 are reluctant to sell, further limiting the supply of available homes. Experts suggest this lack of movement in the market has created a situation where supply is unable to meet demand, describing it as a "market failure."

    By the end of 2024, total housing inventory rose to 1.15 million units, a 16% increase from the previous year. However, the market still falls short by approximately 3 million units needed to achieve a balanced, healthy market. Analysts warn that sluggish home sales will likely persist in the coming year with interest rates expected to stay elevated and builders hesitant to invest in new developments due to affordability concerns. Builders remain cautious, as high costs and low affordability deter potential buyers from entering the market despite strong demand.

    Experts anticipate that the housing market will continue facing challenges unless there is significant intervention, such as more aggressive interest rate cuts or policy changes to incentivize new construction and improve affordability.

Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/01/24/housing-market-2024/

 The Rise of AI: How Companies Are Adapting to the New Wave of Technology

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept—it's here, and it’s transforming how businesses operate. From automating tasks to improving decision-making, AI is shaping the modern workplace. But for many companies, integrating AI into their operations comes with tough decisions and challenges.

The Big Question: Upskill or Outsource?

With AI capabilities expanding rapidly, companies are asking themselves: should they train their current employees or hire external experts? According to Hakan Kardes from Alignment Health, hiring external consultants can accelerate AI projects by bringing in specialized expertise. However, relying too much on outside help could create long-term dependency.

Why AI Is Exciting (and Challenging)

The integration of AI doesn’t just bring technical results—it energizes teams. Engineers at Bitsight found themselves inspired by the chance to work on cutting-edge projects. But as exciting as AI can be, companies must approach it cautiously. Governance and risk management are critical, ensuring data is secure and AI tools don’t produce misleading or incorrect information.

The Hybrid Approach: A Practical Solution

For businesses that lack internal expertise, a hybrid model can be the answer. This means combining external consultants' expertise with internal staff's efforts to build a strong foundation for AI initiatives.

My Take on the Rise of AI in the Workplace

Artificial Intelligence is undoubtedly reshaping the way businesses operate, but it’s not without its complexities. I believe the real challenge lies in finding a balance between innovation and practicality. Companies must carefully decide whether to invest in their current workforce or bring in external experts, and the answer might not be the same for everyone.

While hiring external consultants can accelerate the adoption of AI, I think upskilling internal teams is a more sustainable option in the long run. It not only builds a strong foundation of in-house expertise but also fosters creativity and motivation among employees. 

That said, I also understand that not every company has the luxury of time or resources to develop internal expertise from scratch. For them, a hybrid approach—combining the speed of external consultants with the stability of an internal team—might be the best solution.

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/09/12/ai-forcing-companies-to-make-difficult-costly-hiring-decisions.html

Store Closures Hit New High , Who’s Affected?

 

The number of stores closing in 2025 shows that the retail market is evolving. According to Coresight Research, about 15,000 stores are expected to close this year. That is more than double the number of closures in 2024 at 7,325. Surprisingly, that’s the highest number since the covid pandemic when nearly 10,000 stores ceased operations. The top five retailers that have announced the most closures this year are Party City, Big Lots, Walgreens Boots Alliance,7-Eleven, and Macy’s respectively. What’s remarkable is these lapses aren’t happening because people are spending less money. In fact, consumer spending went up last year by 4% with holiday sales hitting almost $1 trillion. The issue is retail giants like Walmart, Amazon, and Costco are drastically growing their market share by offering unbeatable convenience and lower prices. This has left smaller chains and specialty stores unable to compete. As John Mercer from Coresight pointed out, it’s clear that competitive dynamics, rather than demand, are driving this trend.

 It’s interesting to see how connected everything is and how the actions of one entity can impact the other. For example, when a large retailer like Macy’s shuts down at a mall, the smaller stores around it can’t survive because there’s a loss of foot traffic. This means smaller retailers will face a decline in sales which translates to them struggling to cover their cost of operations and then eventually being forced to close permanently. Macy’s plans to close 150 stores by 2027, with about 50 projected to shut down yearly since 2024. The abandoned spaces get renovated into gyms, clinics, or even apartments instead of new stores. On the brighter side, it’s encouraging to see that 5800 new stores are projected to open this year. Chains like Aldi, JD Sports, Pandora, and Barnes & Noble are expanding which shows that retailers who adapt to shifting consumer preferences can thrive. This indicates that while the retail industry is shrinking, new models and measures can still be established to ensure survival and growth.

source :  

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/23/store-closures-rise-led-by-party-city-big-lots-walgreens.html  

Healthcare Jobs are high in demand

Healthcare jobs are expected to be in high demand and a great option for people who are interested in healthcare for 2025. Healthcare jobs make up for six out of the top twenty five jobs for 2025. This was found through a ranking from indeed. The healthcare field has been expanding a lot, adding 902,000 healthcare and social assistance jobs in 2024 alone. Over the next decade healthcare jobs are actually projected to grow much faster than average. The salaries for these jobs are also pretty high compared to other fields. Radiologists for example earn a median annual salary of $385,000, while physicians make around $225,000 which is higher than the average salaries for most other jobs. Even for registered nurses, they are also high in demand and making a lot of money right now. However, entering the healthcare field typically requires a significant amount of education and training which is something everyone can't and is not willing to do. Politcial changes in the country are also thought tohave a potential effect on the healthcare field. Trump and his fellow republicans are potentially going to cut federal spending on medicaid or allow affordable care act subsidies to expire and this could lower the demand for healthcare. 

Source:https://www.nbcnews.com/business/economy/health-care-jobs-are-demand-2025-one-top-roles-can-pay-385000-rcna187613

Trump's Threat to Putin to Resolve the Russo-Ukrainian War

    President Donald Trump took to the social media outlet Truth Social, a media site ran by Trump Media & Technology Group, to threaten Russia and President Vladimir Putin regarding ending the war between Russia and Ukraine. President Trump stated he would enforce "high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States" if a deal is not made to end the fighting and to come to a peaceful resolution soon. Nonetheless, no specific details were discussed in this threat from one president to another, just the general warning. On the campaign trail ahead of the 2024 election, Trump promised to end the Russo-Ukrainian War within 24 hours of taking office if elected—already falling short of his own timeline.

    Trump, who was critical of the support towards Ukraine from the Biden Administration during his time out of office, is now appearing to look to have a change of opinion and looks to end the war soon but from a different approach than the previous administration. During Biden's presidency, numerous different sanctions were placed against Russian companies, imports, and differing institutions. Although the sanctions placed caused Russia's economy to take a significant hit, it did little to slow their war efforts after receiving aid from their allies. Due to the unknown logistics of this threat, it makes much less practical sense to impose more sanctions and tariffs than it would have in previous years. Since the war started trade with Russia has already significantly decreased, so it would be interesting to see what these potential tariffs and sanctions would do to both economies. 

    The Russo-Ukrainian War formally began in February 2014 over Russia's economic interests, but heavily ramped up in February 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine and have been fighting there since. Hundreds of thousands of civilians and soldiers have passed away since the war began. While a peaceful resolution remains the ultimate goal, the war has already caused irreversible damage to both nations, making the road to recovery complex and questionable.

Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/22/trump-threatens-russia-with-sanctions-tariffs-if-putin-doesnt-end-ukraine-war.html

The Federal Reserve Leaves the NGFS

The Federal Reserve recently announced its decision to exit the Network of Central Banks and Supervisors for Greening the Financial System (NGFS). This global organization comprises banks and financial institutions focused on integrating climate concerns into their policies. The United States joined the NGFS in 2020; however, with the transition to a new presidential administration, the Fed has chosen to sever its ties with this organization. 

This decision has brought forth a range of reactions. Rep. Andy Barr, a strong supporter of the move, argues that it prioritizes American interests over global climate issues. Some analysts believe that the Fed's focus on climate risks has distracted from its traditional responsibilities, pointing to the Silicon Valley Bank failure in 2023 as an example of insufficient oversight. This withdrawal highlights a broader shift towards prioritizing domestic financial stability over international climate commitments. Jerome Powell, the chair of the Fed, stated that central banks should not become climate policymakers. Conversely, individuals like Ben Cushing express concerns that this move could further isolate the U.S. on the global stage. Many believe the timing aligns with President Trump's agenda to reduce U.S. involvement in international matters and global commitments. Trump has also already announced plans to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accord, which he previously labeled as detrimental to the economy. Officials argue that this isolating approach may weaken the United States’ influence globally. 

While I believe it is essential for our central banks to concentrate on their traditional roles—especially with events like the Silicon Valley Bank failure—I also think we must not completely ignore the global issue of climate change. The Federal Reserve should consider ecological decisions, but they should not dominate our policies. This balanced approach can prevent our economy from suffering due to a narrow focus on domestic issues. As a nation, we sometimes tend to concentrate solely on our internal challenges. However, we may be able to solve many of our problems by adopting effective global frameworks or policies. We may not be the best in every area, but we are not confined to our own knowledge and resources. This is the advantage of being part of global organizations which we are currently jeopardizing.

Article: https://www.theepochtimes.com/business/federal-reserve-withdraws-from-global-climate-group-as-trump-set-to-assume-power-5794554

Who is this new U.S. Treasury pick?

Trump's Immigration Plan on the US

I really do not think Trump's plan will affect the job market as much as we think.  We have 47.8 million immigrants with about 12 million of them in the category that Trump's party wants to deport.  He wants to deport the immigrants who have temporary visas that expire during his term (about 40% of the 12 million)  and "illegal" immigrants. Some in this “illegal” category came into the states lawfully under a plan Biden made but Trump's party says it is unlawful. 

Let’s also mention how slow the deportation process is. There is one deportation officer for every 7,000 cases.  If we take a look during Trump's first term, there were about 1.2 million immigrants deported.  Interestingly, during Obama's first term he deported 2.9 million and his second term he deported 1.9 million.  This leads to the question and makes me wonder how many immigrants is it possible for Trump's party to deport in this next term.  

Finally, I found this paper called “The Cost of Illegal Immigration to Taxpayers.”  I could get more in depth about the paper with things like 59% of illegal immigrant households use welfare programs compared to 39% of US born households.  This could be good for the economy because we can have more money to help US born citizens.  I am no expert and I am sure I am missing something so let me know if I overlooked something.  

https://cis.org/Testimony/Cost-Illegal-Immigration-Taxpayers?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAqL28BhCrARIsACYJvkfaYOXcjjBbYHfBuYiBaphn5zZY4AZ-gZIu4tFyB02waDVH7ZcGT8AaAuhFEALw_wcB  

Sources

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/01/17/us/immigrants-trump-deportations.html 

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/quickly-trump-will-able-carry-mass-deportation-plan-depends-factors-rcna188064 

Trump's 25% Tariff Plan: Economic Implications

President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he will impose 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada starting February 1, 2025. This move, part of his "America First trade policy," represents an escalation from his earlier 10% proposal during the campaign. 

Economists project these tariffs will increase consumer prices. Goldman Sachs estimates a 0.1% price rise for every 1% tariff increase, while the Peterson Institute for International Economics forecasts an annual $1,700 cost for middle-class households. Moody's predicts potential job losses of 675,000 and a 0.4% unemployment rate increase. 

The tariffs will affect various imports, including Canadian crude oil and Mexican cars, car parts, and electronics. While Trump has announced plans for Canada and Mexico, he hasn't confirmed universal tariffs on all imported goods.

These tariffs could impact the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), potentially disrupting established North American supply chains. As the February implementation date approaches, businesses, policymakers, and consumers are closely watching the potential economic effects of this policy shift.

The Biden administration had largely maintained Trump-era tariffs, highlighting the complex political nature of trade policies.

Article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alisondurkee/2025/01/21/will-trumps-tariffs-raise-prices-what-to-know-as-he-threatens-goods-from-canada-and-mexico-starting-feb-1/

Home Insurance Difficulties During Natural Disasters

As Southern California has recently dealt with extreme hardships due to the recent wildfires, homeowners insurance has become much more costly and unattainable to residents. For those who live in areas with the largest expected loss, premiums increased nearly 82% more than those in low risk areas. This creates an even larger challenge for the 180,000 residents who have been displaced due to the fires. 

While this topic has been brought to attention due to the raging California wildfires, this has been occurring for quite some time now. Other recent disasters, such as hurricanes in the Southeast and severe storms in the Midwest, have also created significant challenges for Americans. One may wonder, how does this affect the long term wellbeing of those affected? According to CNBC, non-renewal rates in these high risk areas are 80% higher than the national average. Insurers in these areas also typically paid claims up to $5,000 more than low risk regions. 

The Treasury Department released this information to the public on January 17th, with just three days before the change in administration. Officials are hopeful that the administration under President Trump can use this information to spring a plan into action that makes insurance affordable for those affected by natural disasters. 

Link : https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/16/home-insurance-costs-soar-as-climate-events-surge-treasury-dept-says.html 

Australian's are Struggling to Make Ends Meet Under Their Current Economy

 Australia’s economy was the envy of the world. Now it’s falling behind. 

Australia has recorded an impressive 28 straight years of steady economic growth since 1992 until the 2020 pandemic. Since then citizens of the country are finding it harder to support themselves with the rising inflation. I thought it was interesting to note that Australia has an interesting background in recessions. After the Great Depression, Australia was one of the only major developing economies that experienced a relatively short recession before getting back on their feet in little time, and they did pretty well during the 2008 housing crisis because of their strong banking regulations. Now, they seem to be in a hard position because their economy is growing at its slowest pace since the 90s. 

The first three quarters of 2024 the United States experienced an expansion of 3.1 percent, but Australia’s GDP only grew by 0.8 percent. I also thought it was interesting to note that if it wasn't for the immigration-driven population they would actually be in a recession since their per capita growth has been negative for seven straight quarters. Meaning if you factor out the population growth driven by immigration then Australia’s economy is shrinking on a per individual basis. Australia experienced a 7.8 percent peak in inflation and stagnant wages during the pandemic and they are still seeing lingering effects from this today. For many residents, they are finding it hard to build up savings because of this slow growth causing many to find any sort of housing too expensive. 

One of the main causes of the slowdown have to do with the high interest rate. During the pandemic the RBA (Reserve Bank of Australia) lowered the benchmark rate to almost zero, and then raised them later to 4.35 percent to try and tame inflation, but many claim it was actually the cause of it. With a federal election next year, both major parties are looking at reducing the migration as a way to ease the cost of living. While it was stated earlier that if it wasn’t for their immigration Australia would be in a recession, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the migration was beneficial for the economy. This influx of individuals put pressure on housing and strained infrastructure which is why many native Australians do not expect to be homeowners under the current economic conditions unless something is done. 

Trump says He Will Declare National Energy Emergency

In his inaugural address, Trump said he will declare a national energy emergency with the goal of fighting inflation. With this action, he is aiming to increase fossil fuel production and ultimately withdraw the United States from international commitments to combat climate change. In combination, Trump also promised to revoke what he described as the "electric vehicle mandate." Trump is also citing the AI race with China and the need to stay at the forefront of global technology as a reason for the declaration of a national emergency.

With this promise of a declaration of a national energy emergency, many questions remain unanswered. The Trump Administration has promised to cut energy costs in half within the first year of his administration, which sounds like a large task to undertake. It will be interesting to see if Trump has these capabilities along with what possible repercussions there could be for the global climate in the short run and in the very long run.

Link: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/20/trump-to-declare-national-energy-emergency-expanding-his-legal-options-to-address-high-costs.html

Trump's Mass Deportations Effect the Job Market

As President-Elect Donald Trump is set to be inaugurated this January, his promises of mass deportation loom large. President Trump said that this is priority one and that immigrants in America could see themselves deported as early as day one in office. While Trump voters may have supported this on the surface, they may not have seen the underlying economic ramifications that certain economists have brought to life.

Experts are saying that mass deportations would not only put a large hole in the job market, but would also carry large job losses for American citizens. A 2023 study shows that 44,000 US born workers could lose their job for every 500,000 immigrants. Additionally, stories from all over America are popping up about companies, big and small, who are reliant on the immigrant workforce to support their companies.

https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/11/trumps-mass-deportation-plan-could-have-a-big-effect-on-inflation.html

Here’s why inflation may look like it’s easing but is still a huge problem

The Federal Reserve may be nearing its inflation goal, but challenges remain as high prices continue to strain the U.S. economy. Key highlights include recent reports suggesting inflation over the past year is approaching the Fed's 2% target and predictions of upcoming data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis that might show an inflation rate close enough to round down to 2%. The broader cost of living challenges persist, even as inflation trends align more closely with the central bank's objectives. These dynamics underscore the complex balance the Federal Reserve must strike between achieving inflation goals and addressing the lingering impacts of high prices on the economy. In the article, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, President Mary Daly’s anecdote illustrates the nuanced challenges the Fed faces in balancing inflation and interest rates. The Fed’s half-point rate reduction aimed to align interest rates with moderating inflation, which is well below its mid-2022 peak. This highlights the Fed’s challenge of navigating a delicate economic environment, ensuring inflation remains contained while supporting overall economic stability. 

Link to article: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/10/19/why-inflation-may-look-like-its-easing-but-is-still-a-huge-problem.html

SpaceX Starship Breaks During Test Flight

 

Link:https://www.nbcnews.com/science/space/spacex-lost-starship-rocket-debris-videos-rcna188078

This past Thursday, SpaceX tested the Starship which is “the most powerful rocket ever developed” and measures at “400 feet tall.” During the flight mission the ship broke up and bits of it have disintegrated over the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. 

Despite its failure, the system is expected to play a crucial part in NASA’s plan to return to the moon which is scheduled to happen in 2027 on the Artemis III mission. More than that however, the Starship could possibly even take astronauts to Mars. 

For me, reading this article made me realize how close “science fiction” really is. I can’t help but wonder what space exploration will bring in terms of policy which is inextricably connected to economics. Will space exploration mean planetary expansion? Will it be something we get to see in our lifetime? Space colonies?