Economic Policy

4 articles

Small business owner overwhelmed by credit card receipts, symbolizing the burden of swipe fees and the debate over reform.

Swipe fees burden small businesses. Proposed reform sparks debate.

The average American family already pays over $1,200 more annually due to rising credit card swipe fees, a financial drain impacting household budgets nationwide.

Marco Alvarez·September 1, 2026

An empty, dimly lit independent restaurant interior with rain on the window, symbolizing resilience after a disaster.

Food & Drink

Independent Restaurants Need More Than Philanthropy to Survive.

This year, the IRC and Chase Disaster Relief Fund will award $3 million in grants to independently owned restaurants recovering from natural disasters.

Sophie Nguyen·August 15, 2026

A small bookstore with a closed sign, juxtaposed against a glowing online shopping interface, symbolizing the clash between local business struggles and consumer e-commerce habits.

Business Spotlights

Small Business Struggle: Consumer Habits Clash with Economic Policy

Last year, consumers spent $14.

Marco Alvarez·June 27, 2026

A dynamic cityscape representing Nevada's booming entrepreneurial sector, with elements suggesting both growth and potential underlying economic fragility.

Business Spotlights

Nevada's Entrepreneurial Boom Faces Hidden Risks, Threatening Economic Health

Forty percent of all businesses currently operating in Nevada were created after the onset of COVID-19, marking an unprecedented entrepreneurial boom.

Marco Alvarez·April 14, 2026