News

Recession Briefing 4.7

What you need to know today to survive and thrive in the recession.

Americans’ confidence in the economy jumped from 15% in January to 39% who felt more optimistic — even while 70% of respondents worried that someone in their household would lose their job, 40% had cut spending on luxuries and 10 percent had cut back on necessities. (New York Times)

Growing economic optimism and a strengthening U.S. dollar is impacting the price of gold, which fell 2.7% after the G-20 meeting. (Wall Street Journal)

First quarter corporate earnings reports are expected to be grim and investors are bracing themselves for the reports, which kick off today with Alcoa. (CNNMoney)

The Obama administration’s plan for a sweeping expansion of financial regulations could have unintended consequences that increase the very hazards that these changes are meant to prevent. (Washington Post)

The auto industry’s turnaround relies on customers to buy the fuel-efficient cars their mandated to produce to receive government funds. These 10 cars could put Detroit on the road to recovery. (Forbes)

The recession has hit hard in Spain, where 20% of its GDP came from real estate and construction. The unemployment rate now stands at 16% and the economy is expected to contract by 3% this year. (Business Week)

The world faces a permanent food crisis and global instability unless countries act now to feed a surging population by doubling agricultural output, a report drafted for ministers of the Group of Eight nations warned. (Financial Times)

Those who had planned to retire soon may have to reconsider in the face of nest eggs clobbered by the market. (Money)

Providing for the grandchildren they raise is becoming more difficult as older workers who are laid off find it harder to re-enter the workforce. (New York Times)

Working from home? Tips for optimizing your workspace, from ambient light, reduced clutter, and making it really comfortable. (Lifehacker)

If you come across a good article or blog post about the recession pass it on.

Tags: auto industry, Cars, economy, gold, Spain, working at home