Wisconsin DWD launches extended unemployment benefits program

The application process will be available to those who have exhausted their regular unemployment insurance benefits and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Benefits.

Work in paradise: Hawaii offering incentives to remote workers who move to state

Hawaii’s new Movers and Shakas program hopes to attract talented individuals to the islands to work remotely, forging an economy resilient to economic downturns like the one triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dow, S&P 500 head for best November since 1928

A big portion of the push for U.S. stocks in recent weeks, one economist said, is optimism for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Black Friday crowds thin amid surging COVID-19 pandemic as retailers push online sales

In normal times, Black Friday is the busiest shopping day of the year, drawing millions of shoppers eager to get started on their holiday spending. But these are not normal times.

Online shopping hits new record, topping $5B, Adobe Analytics says

Shoppers flocked online on Thanksgiving in record numbers, spending an unmatched $5.1 billion even as concerns regarding a prolonged economic downturn prompted by rising COVID-19 cases looms.

Small Business Saturday more critical this holiday season amid coronavirus pandemic

Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday, a national initiative to shop local and break away from large box stores. However, this year shoppers will notice a few changes because of COVID-19.

US economy sprints toward normal in 2021 but with coronavirus scars

With the help of COVID-19 vaccines and, possibly, more government relief, the U.S. economy may return to normal by the second half of next year.

Absent new stimulus, wealthy pay off credit cards, while others dive deeper into debt

Credit cards reveal yet another example of the “K-shaped recovery” wherein high earners are recuperating, or even increasing their wealth during the economic downturn, and lower income earners are flailing.

Unemployment claims rise to 778,000 as COVID-19 pandemic worsens

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits rose last week to 778,000, evidence that the U.S. economy and job market remain under strain as coronavirus cases surge and colder weather heighten the risks.

Economists urge Congress to send out second round of $1,200 stimulus checks

A group of more than 125 economists is calling on Congress to send out more direct cash payments to American families to help them weather the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent economic downturn.

UK signs trade deal with Canada to prepare for Brexit

The U.K. has signed an interim trade deal with Canada to give the government more time to negotiate future trading rules as it prepares the country for business life outside the European Union.

Unemployment claims increase to 742,000 as COVID-19 cases surge

The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid rose last week to 742,000, the first increase in five weeks and a sign that the resurgent viral outbreak is likely slowing the economy and forcing more companies to cut jobs.

Student loan payments set to resume Jan. 1, 2021 — here’s what you need to know

For millions of student loan borrowers who have benefited from payment relief during the coronavirus pandemic, the payments will resume beginning Jan. 1, 2021.

St. Pete man struggling to care for family wins $1 million on scratch-off ticket

A 67-year-old St. Pete man says he was struggling to take care of his family when he received an early Christmas present: a winning $1 million scratch-off ticket he purchased from Publix.

Biden vows to strengthen economy despite exploding COVID-19 pandemic

President-elect Joe Biden on Monday outlined his plans to boost the U.S. economy but said any structural reforms depend first on reining in the COVID-19 pandemic.