Experts Matter. Find Yours.

An Underwhelming October: The Latest Jobs Report

October brought disappointing news in the most recent U.S. jobs report. In the last jobs report before the U.S. presidential election, only 12,000 jobs were added. This is significantly lower than the expected number of 100,000, marking the slowest hiring month in years. This jobs report is reflective of the multiple hurricanes that ravaged the country this month and the ongoing Boeing strike. Dr. Jared Pincin, economic expert and associate professor at Cedarville University, has provided insight into the current economy of the U.S. and how announcements like this could affect the future.  Here are three key takeaways from Pincin's recent interview: The October jobs report may have been skewed by the two major hurricanes and the Boeing strike that have hindered Americans from working temporarily. How will the Federal Reserve view this report as they consider future rate cuts? The stock market can have strong reactions to announcements such as this. What will the market do with these numbers that are unexpected but potentially untrustworthy? This jobs report is the last key piece of economic data to come out before the presidential election on November 5. Is there any chance that voters change their minds based on this news? If you are covering the recent jobs report or the U.S. economy and need to know more, let us help with your questions and stories. Dr. Jared Pincin is an expert on economics and is available to speak to media regarding the job market, inflation, and what this means for families in the United States – simply click on his icon or email mweinstein@cedarville.edu to arrange an interview.

#ExpertSpotlight - Remembering the invasion of Grenada

The U.S. invasion of Grenada in 1983 stands as a key moment in Cold War history, reflecting the complex dynamics of American foreign policy in the Caribbean. Known as Operation Urgent Fury, this military action was a response to political instability on the island and perceived threats to U.S. citizens and interests. The invasion not only shaped Grenada’s future but also influenced global perceptions of U.S. interventionism, raising questions about sovereignty, international law, and regional geopolitics. The significance of this event continues to resonate, offering numerous story angles for journalists. Key sub-topics include: Cold War Geopolitics and U.S. Foreign Policy: Exploring the broader Cold War context, the U.S.’s strategic interests in the Caribbean, and how the invasion shaped subsequent American foreign policy decisions. Debates on Sovereignty and International Law: Investigating the legal and ethical implications of the invasion, including debates about military intervention, national sovereignty, and international diplomacy. Impact on Grenada’s Political and Social Landscape: Examining the long-term effects of the invasion on Grenada’s political stability, economy, and society, and how the event is remembered locally. Media Coverage and Public Opinion: Analyzing how the invasion was covered by the media at the time, the public’s reaction in the U.S. and globally, and how it shaped perceptions of U.S. military power. The Role of Regional Powers and Alliances: Looking at the involvement of regional organizations like the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and how the invasion impacted relationships between the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. Lessons for Modern U.S. Military Interventions: Reflecting on the invasion’s legacy and what it teaches about the risks, justifications, and consequences of U.S. military interventions in other nations. As the anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Grenada approaches, this event offers an opportunity to revisit critical discussions on international intervention, geopolitical strategy, and the balance between national interests and global governance. Connect with an expert about the 1983  U.S. invasion of Grenada : To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com Photo credit: Encyclopedia Britannica

Falling Flat: The Consumer Price Index

Following a surprising jobs report, inflation didn't ease as much as anticipated. The Consumer Price Index fell to 2.4% year over year last month. Although this was not the desired number, inflation is still declining towards the Fed's target of 2%. What do these numbers mean for the upcoming election and future of the U.S. economy?  Dr. Jeff Haymond, economic expert and dean of the Robert W. Plaster School of Business at Cedarville University, has provided insight on recent U.S. economy updates in a recent interview: The consumer price index was higher than expected in September, but the recent interest rate cut and a hopeful jobs report still provide some good news for the economy. Will inflation continue to ease in the right direction? Experts, such as Haymond, acknowledge that the recent interest rate cut by the Fed was a political move. The cost of living is a crucial issue for U.S. voters as they prepare for the election and hope for eased inflation. How will this and other economic updates affect the decisions of voters as the elections draws near?  If you are covering the U.S. economy and need to know more, let us help with your questions and stories. Dr. Jeff Haymond is an expert on this subject and is available to speak to media regarding the U.S. economy and what recent news means for families in the United States – simply click on his icon or email mweinstein@cedarville.edu to arrange an interview.

Surprising Jobs Report: What It Means for the U.S. Economy

In news that far surpassed expectations, the U.S. added 254,000 jobs in September. The unemployement rate is also heading in the right direction with a slight dip this past month, resulting in a rate of 4.1%. This update comes after an agressive rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Economic expert, Jared Pincin, has pointed out the motivation behind the rate cut and the possible outcomes. Here are some key points and connections to the September job report from an article he was recently featured in: The rate cut was a signal that the Federal Reserve is now prioritizing the job market rather than inflation and it could be a sign that the ecomony is slowing. However, after the latest job report that blew expectations out of the water, could the ecomony be headed in a better direction? After this job report that added almost double the jobs projected, will the Federal Reserve continue to focus on employment rather than inflation? The Federal Reserve will meet again in November to discuss rate cuts. Will this strong jobs report give them flexibility as they gather to make decisons right after the U.S. election? If you are covering the recent jobs report or the U.S. economy and need to know more, let us help with your questions and stories. Dr. Jared Pincin is an expert on this subject and is available to speak to media regarding the job market and what this means for families in the United States – simply click on his icon or email mweinstein@cedarville.edu to arrange an interview.

With dockworkers on the picket line - what can consumers expect as shipping dries up?

As port workers strike across the country, the shutdown at ports could have reverberating effects on consumers, the economy, and businesses. With consumers already facing higher prices, the strikes will likely cause more supply chain delays and price increases that will be passed on to consumers. There will be a lot of media attention surrounding the looming shortages, the implications for the economy, and how retailers will recover as workers and companies attempt to reach a negotiation. Steven Carnovale, Ph.D., associate professor of supply chain management and David Menachof, Ph.D., associate professor of supply chains and operations management, have the expertise in supply chain, global sourcing and production networks, logistics, and transportation to help reporters make sense of the various impacts this will have. Both experts are ready to help with your stories and contribute to your coverage. To connect with Steven Carnovale and David Menachof - click on their icons below. Photo credit: New York Times

ExpertSpotlight: US ports are on strike and shutdown for the first time in 50 years

Thousands of dock workers are on the picket line and 14 major US ports have closed and the havoc to the supply chain and the ripples across the American economy are already starting to show. This strike will be dominating the news cycle and its impacts will be felt in almost every community in one way or another across the country. And if you're covering we have supply chain and labor experts who are here to help with your stories, questions and ongoing coverage. Connect with an expert about the dockworker's strike: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

ExpertSpotlight: The History of Haiti

Haiti is prominent in the news cycle - let our experts give you some perspective on the island's history and background Haiti's rich history and its ongoing refugee crisis remain critical topics in global conversations about human rights, migration, and international aid. As the first independent Black republic, Haiti's historical significance is profound, but the nation continues to face complex political, economic, and environmental challenges that have contributed to the displacement of its citizens. For journalists, understanding Haiti's past and present is essential for shedding light on issues such as migration policies, international support, and the lived experiences of Haitian refugees. Here are several story angles that offer deeper insights into Haiti's enduring struggles and global connections: Haiti’s fight for independence and its global impact: Explore how Haiti's revolution shaped the political landscape of the Western Hemisphere and its lasting influence on anti-colonial movements worldwide. The root causes of Haiti's refugee crisis: Investigate the political instability, natural disasters, and economic challenges driving the exodus of Haitian citizens and the broader migration dynamics in the region. International responses to Haitian refugees: Examine the policies of neighboring countries, including the U.S., and international organizations in addressing the influx of Haitian migrants and their treatment in host nations. Diaspora communities and cultural resilience: Highlight the Haitian diaspora’s contributions to culture, economy, and politics in countries where they have resettled, as well as their role in supporting those still in Haiti. Humanitarian aid and development in Haiti: Assess the effectiveness of international aid programs in addressing the country's crises, and explore innovative approaches to sustainable development in the region. Environmental degradation and its link to migration: Analyze how deforestation, climate change, and natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes are exacerbating Haiti’s humanitarian challenges and forcing people to flee. Connect with an expert about the the History of Haiti: To search our full list of experts visit www.expertfile.com

With Russia’s War in Ukraine, Aeroflot Faces Unfriendly Skies

As Russia’s resurgent global influence grows—from social media influencing to anti-Western alliances—Steven E. Harris’s expertise in modern Russian and European history has become increasingly sought-after. Harris provides expert analysis on Russia’s political economy during its war of aggression against Ukraine and how the country seeks to reshape geopolitics and achieve expansionist goals. Focusing on Russian aviation, Harris explains how Putin’s regime has adapted to Western sanctions and how Russia’s airlines and aerospace industry are evolving in an era of global economic nationalism. Below are two important pieces authored by Harris that were posted by the Jordan Center for the Advanced Study of Russia at NYU. This blog post reflects on the historical significance of the sudden rupture in global aviation that took place after Russia invaded Ukraine, focusing on Russia and the US in particular.... Yesterday's post addressed the new cold war in the skies, which has divided the West from Russia as a consequence of Russia's aggression in Ukraine. Sanctions against Russia’s aviation sector... As the war between Russia and Ukraine stretches toward its third year - there are more and more angles and narratives to cover. And if you're a journalist looking to know more or have questions for a story - experts like Steven. E. Harris are here to help. He's available to speak with reporters - simply click on his icon now to arrange an interview today.

Covering the Fed's Interest Rate Decision? Our Expert can Help

The Federal Open Market Committee has three meetings left in 2024 and markets expect interest rates to be cut. This could have a serious impact on the economy as inflation trends downward and restrictive monetary policies are now ready to be loosened. There will be a lot of media attention and speculation around the September 18 decision and its anticipated effects on the global economy.  It's why experts like Florida Atlantic's William Luther are ready to help with any questions or coverage. William J. Luther, Ph.D., is an associate professor of economics at Florida Atlantic University, director of the American Institute for Economic Research’s Sound Money Project, and an adjunct scholar with the Cato Institute’s Center for Monetary and Financial Alternatives. The Social Science Research Network currently ranks him in the top five percent of business authors. *** Recent Media: Fox News: GOBankingRates: Newsweek: William Luther, Ph.D., an assistant professor in FAU’s Economics Department, has expertise in economic growth, monetary policies, business cycles and cryptocurrencies. Luther’s research has obtained media interest across the nation, including recent coverage by The Wall Street Journal, Politico and Florida Trend. If you're looking to know more - let us help.   Simply click on William's icon now to set up an interview today.

Five ways going green can improve your bottom line: A guide for West Midlands SMEs

As sustainability becomes a central focus for businesses across the globe, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands are uniquely positioned to benefit from going green. Whether you're running a corner shop, a hairdressing salon, a manufacturing operation, or any other type of small business, sustainable practices can significantly enhance your bottom line. Here are five key ways that adopting green strategies can lead to financial gains. Reduced operational costs One of the most immediate and tangible benefits of going green is the reduction in operational costs. Energy efficiency, waste reduction, and resource conservation are all areas where small changes can lead to significant savings. For instance, simply switching to energy-efficient lighting can reduce electricity bills by up to 75 per cent—a substantial saving for any business, particularly for small retailers or service providers where margins can be tight. Additionally, the UK government offers incentives to help businesses transition to more energy-efficient operations, making it easier for SMEs to invest in these changes. Join Aston University’s workshop on 18 September and take advantage of a free energy assessment for your business. Learn practical steps to audit your energy use and uncover cost-saving opportunities tailored to your specific industry needs. Access to new markets and opportunities As the UK government and local authorities push for a greener economy, there are growing opportunities for businesses that align with these goals. SMEs that adopt sustainable practices may qualify for grants, tax reliefs, and other incentives designed to support green initiatives. For example, local councils in the West Midlands have programmes such as ‘BEAS and Decarbonisation Net Zero’ aimed at helping small businesses reduce their carbon footprint, which can be especially beneficial for almost all sectors where environmental impact is a growing concern. At the workshop, we’ll delve into the funding options and partnerships available to West Midlands SMEs committed to sustainability, helping you unlock new growth opportunities. Increased marketability Consumers are increasingly favouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. According to a study by Nielsen, 66 per cent of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable goods, and this trend is evident in the UK as well. By adopting green practices, SMEs in the West Midlands can enhance their brand reputation. This can translate to increased sales, customer loyalty, and even the ability to charge premium prices for sustainable products or services. In a competitive market, your environmental credentials can be a powerful differentiator. Attend Aston University’s workshop to learn from real-life success stories and see how businesses are already turning sustainability into a competitive advantage. Long-term resilience and competitiveness Sustainability isn’t just about immediate financial gains; it’s also about future-proofing your business. As regulations around carbon emissions and environmental impact become stricter, businesses that have already integrated green practices will find it easier to comply, avoiding potential fines and disruptions. For SMEs in sectors like manufacturing, where regulatory pressures are particularly high, adopting sustainable practices now can help ensure long-term competitiveness and resilience. A prime example of this shift is the NHS, which is actively working towards a Net Zero supply chain by 2045. The NHS is urging its suppliers to adopt sustainable practices, with a strong focus on reducing carbon emissions. Businesses that fail to align with these expectations risk losing contracts and falling behind competitors who are meeting these sustainability criteria. At the workshop, you'll learn more about sustainability strategy that can keep your business competitive and resilient in an ever-changing market. Enhanced employee engagement and productivity Increasingly, employees are seeking to work for companies that align with their personal values, including a commitment to sustainability. While this trend is more pronounced among larger companies, it’s also becoming relevant for small businesses, particularly those in industries where attracting and retaining talent is competitive. According to research, 74 per cent of employees feel more fulfilled when they work for a company that is making a positive impact on the environment. For small businesses, fostering a sustainable workplace can enhance employee morale, attract top talent, and reduce turnover rates. However, the degree to which this resonates can depend on your specific workforce. In sectors like tech, professional services, or among younger employees, sustainability is often a key consideration. On the other hand, in some more traditional industries, other factors like job security and compensation might be more important, though sustainability still adds value. Sign up for our workshop to discover how your small or medium business—regardless of sector—can implement effective sustainability practices and energy efficiency strategies to drive growth. This event is open to all SMEs across the West Midlands! Click here to register now. You'll also have the opportunity to book a free energy assessment on the spot and apply for match funding of up to £100,000 to make your business more energy efficient.