Dick Young

1 week ago | youngresearch.com | Dick Young

The White House reports that President Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill” promises the largest tax cut in US history, aiming to boost wages, take-home pay, and economic growth for working- and middle-class Americans. A Council of Economic Advisers state-by-state analysis shows potential long-term wage gains from $4,300 to $14,800 and take-home pay increases from $6,000 to $16,500, depending on the state.

1 week ago | youngresearch.com | Dick Young

In April, job openings and hiring rates increased in four U.S. states, while separations rose in two states and fell in one, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nationally, job openings, hires, and separation rates showed little change. Notable increases in job openings were seen in West Virginia, Louisiana, and North Carolina, while New York led in overall job openings and separations. Layoffs rose in 5 states, including Florida and New York, but decreased in Texas and Montana.

1 week ago | youngresearch.com | Dick Young

The US Energy Information Administration forecasts a drop in U.S. ethane exports by 80,000 b/d in 2025 and 177,000 b/d in 2026 due to new export license requirements for shipments to China. China, which accounted for 47% of U.S. ethane exports in 2024, has seen shipments stall after the U.S. labeled exports a military risk. At least seven large ethane carriers are currently stranded off the US Gulf Coast.

1 week ago | youngresearch.com | Dick Young

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that US import prices were unchanged in May 2025 as higher nonfuel costs offset a 4.0% drop in fuel prices, while export prices fell 0.9%—the sharpest monthly decline since October 2023—driven by lower nonagricultural goods. Despite the dip, export prices rose 1.7% year-over-year. Agricultural exports edged up, and import airfares jumped 7.3%, while export airfares dropped 1.9%.

1 week ago | youngresearch.com | Dick Young

Sam Meredith of CNBC News reports that some shipowners are beginning to avoid the Strait of Hormuz due to rising tensions stemming from the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, according to the global shipping association Bimco. The strategic waterway, crucial for global oil and container trade, has seen a “modest drop” in ship traffic as security concerns mount.