Business and Economic News

Farmers are still reeling months after Hurricane Helene ravaged crops across the South
Farmers in Georgia are still reeling more than two months after Hurricane Helene blew away cotton, destroyed ripened squash and cucumbers and uprooted pecan trees and timber. Agribusinesses in other Southern states saw costly damage as well. 
November proves strong month for Minnesota job market despite slight unemployment uptick
Four supersectors gained jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis, led by strong gains in construction. That’s according to new monthly jobs numbers released by the Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Arctic Cat to cease operations at Thief River Falls, St. Cloud plants
The iconic Minnesota maker of snowmobiles and other outdoor vehicles, says it will suspend manufacturing at its facilities in Thief River Falls and St. Cloud next year. A company spokesperson said the actions are difficult but necessary to reduce costs, due to challenging business conditions in the powersports industry.
Federal Reserve cuts its key rate by a quarter-point but envisions fewer reductions next year
The Federal Reserve cut its key interest rate by a quarter-point — its third cut this year — but also signaled that it expects to reduce rates more slowly next year than it previously envisioned, largely because of still-elevated inflation.
In last-ditch effort, Democrats push to get Julie Su confirmed as labor secretary
Acting Secretary Julie Su has led the Labor Department for nearly two years, despite never getting a Senate confirmation vote. With time running out, her staunchest supporters haven't given up.
Coffee prices are higher than ever. Here’s what it means for your cup
Droughts in top coffee-growing countries have shrunk the supply of beans. Supermarket brands like Nescafé and Folgers have already raised prices — but the world keeps drinking more and more coffee.