BUSINESS AND MONEY
The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the US inched down in May
The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the US ticked down by 0.1% in May 2025 to 99.0 (2016=100), after declining by 1.4% in April (revised downward from –1.0% originally reported). The LEI has fallen by 2.7% in the six-month period ending May 2025, a much faster rate of decline than the 1.4% contraction over the previous six months.
“The LEI for the US fell again in May, but only marginally,” said Justyna Zabinska-La Monica, Senior Manager, Business Cycle Indicators, at The Conference Board. “The recovery of stock prices after the April drop was the main positive contributor to the Index. However, consumers’ pessimism, persistently weak new orders in manufacturing, a second consecutive month of rising initial claims for unemployment insurance, and a decline in housing permits weighed on the Index, leading to May’s overall decline. With the substantial negatively revised drop in April and the further downtick in May, the six-month growth rate of the Index has become more negative, triggering the recession signal. The Conference Board does not anticipate recession, but we do expect a significant slowdown in economic growth in 2025 compared to 2024, with real GDP growing at 1.6% this year and persistent tariff effects potentially leading to further deceleration in 2026.”
The Conference Board Coincident Economic Index® (CEI) for the US inched up by 0.1% in May 2025 to 115.1 (2016=100), after a 0.2% increase in April. The CEI rose by 1.3% over the six-month period between November 2024 and May 2025, more than twice as fast as its 0.5% growth over the previous six months. The CEI’s four component indicators—payroll employment, personal income less transfer payments, manufacturing and trade…
CURRENT EDITION
WEATHER
TODAY
RH
WASHINGTON BUREAU
Air Dominance, Disaster Response Top Western Hemisphere Security Talks
Air force leaders from more than 20 countries gathered for the Conference of American Air
NATO Leaders Pledge to Increase Defense Spending
During a press briefing on the last day of the NATO Summit in The Hague,
Boeing Leads Defense Sector Rally; Ramdedovic Discusses Investment Implications
Respected across the financial sector for his precise, disciplined investment philosophy, the man behind some of the most talked-about tech and energy calls of the last decade has again turned heads. Known for his conservative yet consistently profitable strategies, Ramdedovic, whom we had the opportunity to interview earlier this…
Best Trust Companies 2025: Ken Lako’s Data Driven Approach to Humanizing Wealth Management
At Members Trust Company (MTC), President and CEO Ken Lako has cultivated a distinctive approach to wealth management that balances sophisticated data analysis with genuine human connection. This methodology has earned MTC recognition as one of America’s Most Advisor Friendly Trust Companies for 2025, positioning the organization as…
Americans Face Financial Risks as Lifespans Increase: Urgent Need for Better Retirement Planning
As the U.S. Census Bureau projects that the number of Americans reaching the age of 100 is set to quadruple by 2054, new research reveals a concerning gap in financial planning amidst this surge in longevity. According to a recent study conducted by the Nationwide Retirement Institute…
Northern Cyprus Emerges as Prime Mediterranean Destination for Real Estate Investment
Northern Cyprus is quickly gaining attention as one of the Mediterranean’s most promising destinations for real estate investment. With its combination of natural beauty, strategic location, and investor-friendly environment, the region offers an exceptional opportunity for those looking to grow capital or secure a home by the sea.
Over the…
Financial Inclusion: The Hidden Key to Economic Mobility With Insights From Adrien Matray
James lives in a working-class neighborhood in Cleveland. Despite holding a steady job for years, he’s never had a bank account. Like many Americans in similar situations, James cashes his paychecks at a local check-cashing outlet, paying a 2% fee each time. He keeps his savings in cash at…
Sanctioning Iran’s “Shadow Banking” network of money launderers and illicit oil traders
The United States government announced on Friday the imposition of sanctions on over 35 individuals and entities associated with a sophisticated money laundering network that supports the Iranian regime. This action targets a network believed to have laundered billions through various exchange houses in Iran as well as foreign front companies, enabling Tehran to fuel campaigns that threaten international peace and further enrich regime elites.
Among those sanctioned are the Zarringhalam brothers, who, along with their associates, have utilized numerous companies based in the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong. These businesses are accused of assisting designated Iranian individuals in generating revenue from the sale of petroleum and other goods that are under U.S. sanctions.
This sanctions announcement marks the first significant action against Iran’s shadow banking system since President Biden signed the National Security Presidential Memorandum on February 4, which aims to increase pressure on the Iranian regime.
In tandem with the sanctions, the Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) released an updated advisory. This advisory is designed to aid U.S. and international financial institutions in identifying and reporting suspicious financial activities related to Iran’s illicit operations. It outlines various forms of illegal financing as well as red…
Turning intellectual property into a competitive advantage
In a rapidly digitizing world, intellectual property (IP) law stands at a critical crossroads. As technology transforms how products are developed, marketed, and consumed, legal systems are under increasing pressure to keep pace. Whether it’s protecting software code, securing global trademarks, or managing digital rights for creative content, the complexity of safeguarding IP has grown exponentially.
The digital age has given rise to new forms of innovation—and new threats. Artificial intelligence, blockchain, and virtual goods present unprecedented questions for IP ownership and enforcement. At the same time, traditional concerns like patent infringement and copyright violations persist, now magnified by the speed and reach of digital distribution.
Rethinking IP in a Digital-First Economy
“We’re seeing a fundamental shift in how IP assets are created and valued,” says Feras Mousilli, an intellectual property attorney and former legal counsel at major tech firms including Apple and Dell. “Companies must think beyond registration and build dynamic strategies that adapt to rapidly evolving technologies and markets.”
Mousilli brings a unique perspective to the conversation, having worked on both litigation and in-house strategy across some of the world’s most IP-rich industries. With a background in biomedical engineering, computer science, and law, he understands the challenges that arise…
Tax Filing Expert Jennifer O’Neill of IRS HELP Talks About Filing in a Complex Regulatory Climate
Buffalo, NY – Jennifer O’Neill of IRS HELP is featured in the latest edition of HelloNation, where she offers expert advice on navigating tax season with clarity and confidence. Her article, Navigate Taxes with a Professional Guide, addresses the growing question many taxpayers ask each year: Should I…
The New Perks of Work: How Employers Are Rethinking Benefits to Keep Teams Happy and Whole
Companies are no longer competing on salary or job titles in a work landscape that’s been flipped, stretched, and redefined since 2020. You’ve probably noticed that the script has changed. Employees aren’t just looking for a paycheck—they want meaning, flexibility, and wellness that goes beyond the occasional pizza Friday…
David Hao on Building Inclusive Global Teams From the Ground Up
Inclusive global teams are a cornerstone of success in today’s interconnected world. Organizations with diverse talent pools outperform their competitors, foster innovation, and better address the needs of a global customer base. However, creating these teams requires more than simply hiring people from different countries. It demands intentionality, clear…
S&P Dow Jones Indices Reports U.S. Common Indicated Dividend Payments Increase of $15.3 Billion in Q1 2025 as Dividend Growth Continues to Slow
S&P Dow Jones Indices announced the indicated dividend net changes (increases less decreases) for U.S. domestic common stocks increased $15.3 billion during Q1 2025, compared to the $11.7 billion increase in Q4 2024 and the $16.0 billion increase in Q1 2024. Increases were $19.5 billion versus $14.2 billion for…
Revolutionizing Board Recruitment: Boardsi’s Role in Democratizing Access to Leadership
Board recruitment has traditionally been an exclusive process, favoring well-connected individuals within select networks. This approach has limited diversity and innovation, preventing fresh perspectives from shaping governance. Boardsi is challenging this outdated model by broadening access to leadership roles. By emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility, Boardsi is redefining board…
Austin, Texas ranks first with the lowest rent-to-income ratio and a booming tech scene
By Sandy Di Angelis / Associate WriterAmid the hustle and bustle of graduation season, Realtor.com has announced its highly anticipated list of the Top Rental Markets for Recent College Graduates in 2025. This year’s rankings highlight cities that not only offer affordable housing options but also promise vibrant job markets and a lively social scene suitable for new degree holders seeking their footing in the professional world.
Leading the pack is Austin, Texas, a city known for its dynamic culture and booming tech sector. “This year’s rankings reflect a rental landscape shaped by falling rents and shifting job markets,” said Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com. “Young people can launch their careers here without sacrificing their lifestyles. These markets offer energy, opportunity, and community—all essential for recent grads.”
The top three cities, which include Raleigh, North Carolina, and Overland Park, Kansas, were chosen based on an array of factors relevant to recent graduates. The rankings considered rent affordability, job availability, commute times, social amenities, and the local share of recent college graduates.
Budget-Friendly Living
For cash-strapped graduates, the news is especially encouraging. Austin boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in the rankings at 18.9%. This figure reflects the percentage of gross income typically spent on housing, and a lower number indicates more disposable income for all those post-graduation celebrations—think late-night tacos or pizza. Following close behind, Minneapolis, Minnesota (19.7%) and Raleigh, North Carolina (20.0%) also provide affordable housing options, with the average graduate in the top 10 markets spending only 21.5% of their income on rent—well below the national average.
Strong Job Prospects
In addition to…
MORE ARTICLES
Matthew H. Fleeger’s Strategic Innovation at Gulf Coast Western Reshapes Oil Exploration
Qatar Airways Makes Aviation History With Record-Breaking Order for 210 Boeing Jets
Goldstone Contracting Inc. Helping Homeowners in Maryland With Free Roof Inspections and Insurance-Paid Roof Replacements
For many homeowners, roof maintenance often takes a backseat—until an issue arises. However, neglecting regular roof inspections can lead to costly repairs or even a full roof replacement. Recognizing this, Goldstone Contracting Inc., a veteran-owned and family-operated roofing company, is stepping up to assist Maryland homeowners with free roof…
Veregy Approved as Participating Contractor in NY-Sun Incentive Program
Veregy, a leading decarbonization company, has proudly announced its approval as a participating contractor in the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority’s (NYSERDA) NY-Sun Incentive Program. This significant endorsement allows Veregy to provide enhanced solar solutions through both the Residential & Nonresidential and Commercial & Industrial…
U.S. Auto Sales to Reach 1.23 Million Units in February 2025, Indicating Mild Recovery Amid Economic Uncertainty
With volume for the month projected at 1.23 million units, February 2025 U.S. auto sales are estimated to translate to an estimated sales pace of 16.1 million units (seasonally adjusted annual rate: SAAR). This would be a step up from the 15.6 million unit pace of January 2025 and…
In an industry known for volatility and unpredictability, Matthew H. Fleeger has established Gulf Coast Western as a model of stability and growth through strategic innovation and thoughtful partnership development. As President and CEO, Fleeger has implemented a distinctive business approach that has enabled the company to thrive even during challenging market conditions.
When Matthew H. Fleeger returned to lead Gulf Coast Western in 2007 after his father’s retirement, the oil and gas industry faced significant headwinds. Rather than maintaining the status quo, Fleeger initiated a comprehensive transformation of the company’s business model and operational strategy.
Joint Venture Partnerships: The Cornerstone of Growth
At the heart of Gulf Coast Western’s business model under Matthew H. Fleeger’s leadership is a focus on joint venture partnerships. As the managing venturer of oil and gas general partnerships, the company organizes and leads ventures for the exploration, development, and acquisition of domestic oil and gas reserves.
This approach allows Gulf Coast Western to tackle larger projects and distribute risk effectively. Fleeger has been particularly selective about potential partners, implementing rigorous vetting procedures to ensure investment integrity. According to company materials, investors must possess a basic understanding of oil and gas exploration, maintain a net worth of…
EDITOR'S
CHOICE
Qatar Airways Makes Aviation History With Record-Breaking Order for 210 Boeing Jets
U.S. Home Prices Show Steady Gains in December 2024
S&P Dow Jones Indices (S&P DJI) announced the latest results for the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Indices, revealing a 3.9% annual gain in U.S. home prices for December 2024. This marks a slight uptick from the previous month’s 3.7% annual increase, indicating a consistent upward trend in the housing…
Corporate Philanthropy Sees Shift in Strategy Amid Political Landscape Changes
In a dramatic response to recent shifts in the U.S. policy landscape, corporate philanthropy leaders are reevaluating their strategies for the upcoming year, prioritizing economic opportunity and education while scaling back initiatives focused on racial and gender equality. This trend emerges from a recent survey conducted by The Conference…
Land and Lot Supply Healthiest in Years as Market Sees Mixed Growth Trends Across Major Metropolitan Areas
The New Home Lot Supply Index (LSI – single-family vacant developed lots reflecting rate absorption via housing starts) for 4Q24 loosened quarter-over-quarter for the second quarter, while lot supply tightened year-over-year.
“Land and lot supply is at the healthiest levels we’ve seen in years,” said Ali Wolf, chief economist…