Thomas McCorry

  Economics is often described as the study of numbers—prices, profits, productivity. Yet beneath the graphs and equations lies something more elusive: stories. Narratives shape how we interpret data, how we act in markets, and how we move as societies. Nobel laureate Robert Shiller coined the term narrative economics to capture this truth: that stories, not just statistics, drive economic behavior. In a world where information spreads instantly, narratives are not just background noise—they are the currents that move markets and the sparks that ignite movements. The Power of Story in Economics Stories are how humans make sense of complexity. Numbers may tell us what is happening, but narratives tell us why it matters. A rising stock price becomes a story of innovation. A falling currency becomes a story of decline. A new technology becomes a story of disruption. These stories are contagious. They spread through media, boardrooms, and social networks. They shape expectations...

 How to Bring Clarity to Choices Big and Small Every day, we make hundreds of decisions—what to eat, which emails to answer first, whether to take on a new project, or how to spend our free time. Some choices are small, others carry long-term consequences. Yet in a world of endless options and constant information, decision fatigue is real. The good news? You don’t need to rely on gut instinct alone. By applying simple, structured frameworks, you can transform decision-making from a stressful guessing game into a process that brings clarity, confidence, and consistency. Let’s explore practical tools you can use to navigate choices in both personal and professional life. The Power of Frameworks Frameworks are structured ways of thinking. They don’t make decisions for you, but they help organize information, weigh trade-offs, and reveal hidden priorities. Think of them as lenses: each one highlights different aspects of a choice, allowing you to see more clearly before acting. ...

Consumer confidence has long served as a leading indicator of economic health. But in 2025, the relationship between sentiment and spending is becoming more complex. While some households remain resilient, others are pulling back — not just because of financial constraints, but because of fear, uncertainty, and shifting cultural dynamics. For business leaders , understanding these behavioral shifts is essential to navigating demand, pricing, and messaging in a volatile landscape. I. The Confidence Index: A Warning Signal The Conference Board’s Expectations Index — a key measure of consumer outlook — has remained below the recession threshold of 80 for nine consecutive months. This sustained pessimism reflects concerns about inflation, immigration enforcement, political instability, and global conflict. While the Present Situation Index remains relatively stable, the forward-looking sentiment is deteriorating. Key indicators : Holiday spending is projected to decline by 3.9% year-...

Halloween may be rooted in ancient traditions, but its modern incarnation is a masterclass in consumer behavior and seasonal marketing. What began as a night of costumes and candy has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar economic engine — one that reveals as much about inflation, supply chains, and generational spending habits as it does about ghosts and goblins. In 2025, Americans are expected to spend a record-breaking $13.1 billion on Halloween — a 13% increase from last year. But this surge isn’t just about buying more. It’s about paying more for the same things, thanks to rising costs, tariff pressures, and evolving consumer priorities. 🛍️ Consumer Behavior: Joyful Indulgence Meets Strategic Spending Despite inflation fatigue and economic uncertainty, nearly 78% of U.S. adults plan to celebrate Halloween this year. That’s a testament to the holiday’s emotional resilience — people are willing to spend, but they’re doing so with intention. Average spend per celebrant: $...

Utility costs have been rising well ahead of general inflation .  Saving energy at home is not only good for the environment but also helps reduce your utility bills. Whether you own a large house or a small apartment, there are many ways to cut energy consumption effectively. This article covers a wide range of energy-saving strategies, from major upgrades to simple daily habits. 1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances One of the biggest energy drains in any home comes from old or inefficient appliances. Consider replacing refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and HVAC systems with ENERGY STAR-rated models. These appliances use advanced technology to consume less electricity while maintaining performance. 2. Improve Home Insulation Proper insulation keeps your home warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning. Check your attic, walls, floors, and basement for insulation quality. Adding or upgrading insulation can significantly low...

Explore the economics behind grocery stores—from razor-thin margins and supply chain pressures to consumer behavior and pricing strategies. Learn how retailers stay competitive in a volatile market. Slug: grocery-store-economics-profit-pricing-strategy 🛒 Introduction: The Hidden Complexity Behind Your Grocery Cart Grocery stores may seem like straightforward businesses—buy food, stock shelves, sell to customers—but beneath the surface lies a complex economic ecosystem. From managing razor-thin profit margins to navigating global supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences, grocery retailers must constantly adapt to survive and thrive. This article unpacks the key economic forces shaping grocery stores today, offering insights into pricing strategies, labor dynamics, and the evolving role of technology in food retail. 📉 Thin Margins, Big Stakes: The Financial Reality of Grocery Retail Unlike luxury goods or tech products, groceries operate on notoriously sli...