business

Upjohn Institute for Employment Research Economist Susan Houseman says the idea that trade is not responsible for a decline in manufacturing jobs has taken hold with economists and the media. But Houseman who is the institute’s Vice President and Director of Research says the data shows trade is at least one cause of fewer manufacturing jobs.

The “Dark store theory” may be a misnomer, but its impact is felt by local governments. A recent court ruling may impact how the tax appeals are determined in the future.

Western Michigan University Professor Alan Rea says businesses are in a cybersecurity “arms race.” He says there’s more electronic information, and people are constantly online make it easier for attackers. 

If you wanted to buy a car - say a Ford Focus, which is made in Michigan - you could go to an auto dealer. But even if you went to the Ford assembly plant - you couldn’t buy a Focus directly from Ford. It’s illegal for vehicle manufacturers to sell to consumers in the state. That’s causing trouble for popular electric car maker Tesla - and a small startup in Kalamazoo.