Trends in annual sales, prices of cigarettes in US
Total US cigarette retail sales declined significantly, with a -12.8% decrease in annual sales from 2015 to 2021. Cigarette prices also decreased, with a average annual price drop of $0.75 per pack.
Economic Growth
Articles tagged with Economic Growth
Albert Winsemius and Singapore
A team of NTU Singapore economists compiled a detailed study of Albert Winsemius' influence on Singapore's early economic development, analyzing his affinity with Singapore and his contributions to the country's economic growth. The book examines his synergy with pioneering leaders like Lee Kuan Yew and Dr Goh Keng Swee.
How to avoid eating the world
A new study suggests that a transformative shift in the global food system, focusing on efficiency and reducing animal products, could significantly decrease emissions. However, such changes might lead to increased food prices, affecting vulnerable populations.
Identifying global poverty from space
Researchers have identified over 2.4 million households in 49 countries as being below a certain economic threshold, based on the percentage of unlit settlements detected using nighttime light satellite images. The study found a clear association between increasing percentages of unlit communities and decreasing economic wellbeing levels.
The shape of things to come: tropical birds are changing because of us
Human activity on Hainan Island is causing changes in the body shapes and diets of tropical birds, resulting in biotic homogenisation. Despite efforts to protect biodiversity, the island's unique ecosystem is being affected by large-scale economic and land-use changes.
New project investigates links between precarious work and authoritarian politics in Global South
A new project led by Dr Rosana Pinheiro Machado will investigate the links between precarious work and authoritarian politics in Brazil, India, and the Philippines. The research aims to understand how economic growth has fueled the rise of aspirational classes and growing work precariousness.
Innovation flows across regions and sectors in complex ways, study shows
A new study analyzes knowledge transfers across 853 US counties in five manufacturing industries, revealing the importance of local environment, university research, and industry structure for innovation. The findings provide insights into inter- and intra-regional flows, as well as the role of external factors in knowledge output.
Study finds reducing carbon emissions won’t hurt economic growth
The study explores how countries can reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 with continued economic growth through 2100. The results suggest that stringent public policies and rapid deployment of low-carbon technologies are necessary to achieve this goal, with the global economy projected to be five times its size in 2100.
Stock market returns track the strength of the dollar
Researchers found that an appreciation of the US dollar leads to higher stock returns, while a decline in local currency stock returns accompanies a weaker dollar. Emerging market economy stocks with high dollar beta tend to have higher average returns.
Scientists characterize fertilizer uptake by maize in unprecedented detail, opening doors to improved yields
Researchers used single cell RNA-sequencing to identify specific cells and genes in maize roots responsible for nitrate uptake. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing root nutrient uptake ability in crops.
"Advanced" countries’ wealth depends on the appropriation of resources and labour from the global South
A study by Jason Hickel reveals that the global North appropriates vast resources and labor from the global South through price differentials in international trade, resulting in a net drain of $10.8 trillion in 2015. This unsustainable practice perpetuates global inequality and ecological breakdown.
Precious metal commodities can enhance investment portfolio performance, say Pusan National University researchers
A study published in Applied Economics analyzed the relationship between precious metal commodities and equity markets, revealing that gold and aluminum are the most desirable metals for investment. The research also found that copper and zinc have the largest spillovers on global equity indices.
£5 million innovation deal boosts healthy longevity business
A £5.6m joint investment will drive cutting-edge research into smart homes, connected devices, remote monitoring, and health models for older adults to live independently. The deal aims to create new jobs, skills, and tech start-ups in the region.
New study shows benefits of ammonium for pine root growth
Researchers at the University of Malaga found that conifers are tolerant to excessive amounts of ammonium, which can cause toxicity in other plants. The study used state-of-the-art techniques to identify molecular mechanisms involved in ammonium's effects on pine roots.
Slowing ahead
Researchers warn of a potential long-term economic slowdown in developed democracies, driven by factors such as aging populations, shifts to services, and debt. The team proposes a 'guided civic revival' approach to address this challenge, combining grassroots forces with government participation to promote social solidarity and unity.
Why it’s time to stop defining a nation’s success through economic growth
A new paper cautions that slow economic growth may bring challenges, particularly in multicultural democracies like the US, affecting social solidarity, opportunity, inequality, and trust in government. The authors propose a 'guided civic revival' to address these challenges by strengthening democratic institutions, increasing social i...
Measuring financial and digital literacy in vulnerable populations
A new approach to measuring financial and digital literacy is proposed by a team of researchers led by Angela Lyons. The study finds that while promoting literacy is important, it may not be enough to ensure resilience, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women and those living in poverty.
Road impacts on ecosystems in sub-Saharan Africa
A new study reveals that road development in sub-Saharan Africa has negative impacts on biodiversity, both inside and outside protected areas. The researchers found that roads act as barriers to movement, facilitate access to previously inaccessible land, and contribute to urbanization, logging, and cropland expansion.
Air pollution caused 1.1 million deaths across Africa in 2019, new study finds
A new study finds that air pollution is responsible for 1.1 million deaths across Africa in 2019, with household air pollution accounting for 700,000 fatalities. The study also reveals that air pollution is costing African countries billions in gross domestic product and hindering the intellectual development of children.
WVU researchers hope to open an ocean of opportunities for the underserved
West Virginia University researchers aim to create better connections with underserved populations to the blue economy, which defines sustainable use of ocean resources. They will analyze data and explore ways to package it in a way that encourages these traditionally underserved groups to utilize the blue economy.
Future prosperity in China is unlikely to be hindered by population aging
A new study published in PNAS suggests that China's declining birth rate and aging population may not negatively impact future prosperity. The researchers found that higher education levels among women can lead to increased labor force participation, potentially offsetting the negative effects of population aging.
In hot weather, outdoor laborers work less - when economy is growing
Analysis shows US workers in weather-exposed industries work fewer hours on hot days during economic growth, but not during recession. The study predicts $80 billion in lost wages by 2090 due to high-heat labor conditions.
Far out: Why political parties go to extremes
A recent study modelled social, economic, and personal factors influencing voters and parties to identify four key levers that tip the balance towards political extremes. Social contagion and macro-economic factors such as employment and economic growth play a significant role in driving polarization.
Covid-19 pandemic: Number of people unemployed across the EU remained “remarkably” stable
The Covid-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the EU labour market, with some countries experiencing significant increases in unemployment and inactivity rates. Notably, the Baltic States saw substantial growth in inactive citizens, while Poland was a 'unique case' where both unemployment and inactivity fell slightly.
Why lockdown in Africa does not work as a first COVID-19 pandemic response
The poor are unlikely to obey strict lockdowns due to lack of nutrition, economic opportunities, and infrastructure. African policymakers need to prioritize social and economic measures over stringent lockdowns to slow the spread of COVID-19 and future pandemics.
For women workers in India, direct deposit is 'digital empowerment'
A Yale University study found that direct deposit of wages into female-owned bank accounts increased labor force participation and earnings among Indian women. The intervention also liberalized their personal beliefs about working women, reducing social stigma associated with working outside the home.
Post-pandemic rehabilitation
A Russian study forecasts that economic growth will be driven by improved efficiency in the mining complex (EMC) and capital formation. The EMC is expected to play a key role in driving growth, particularly through increased investment in natural resource extraction and export activities.
The price is right: Modeling economic growth in a zero-emission society
A study by Tokyo University of Science researchers analyzed the relationship between economic growth and environmental preservation. The model indicates that achieving a 'zero-emission society' is compatible with economic growth, but only if GDP is above a certain level and pollution reduction allocation is flexible.
Freeports: innovative trading hubs or centres for money laundering and tax evasion?
A new study from the University of Portsmouth highlights the attractive trading advantages offered by freeports but also raises concerns about their potential misuse for money-laundering and tax-evasion purposes. The researchers advocate for stronger regulation to prevent these zones from being exploited.
Energy transition is dominated by myths arising from beliefs in continuous economic growth
A study reveals that the Finnish energy transition is shaped by mental models drawing from competition, hierarchy, and continuous economic growth. These myths, such as The Rock Solid and Big Brother, have roots in shared deep beliefs about reality construction and shape the energy marketing system.
New paper shows how disease can affect economies for generations
A new study reveals that disease can alter social networks and economic growth for generations, with high diffusion networks promoting growth in low-disease countries but hindering it in high-disease environments. Small initial differences in epidemiological environment can trigger large and persistent differences in network structure,...
An agile superpower -- China's various roles in Africa and the Arctic
China seeks to maintain economic growth by increasing its global presence, investing in infrastructure, and securing trade routes. In Africa, China has established itself as the largest trading partner, while in the Arctic, it is expanding its military presence and securing resources.
Satellite data reveals bonds between emissions, pollution and economy
A new analysis of nearly two decades of satellite data shows that economic development, fossil-fuel combustion, and air quality are closely linked on a continental and national scale. However, under favorable policies, these factors can be decoupled.
Lack of managers keeps India's businesses small
A new study by Yale University economists finds that the absence of professional management hinders India's business growth, constraining innovation and economic growth. The study suggests that if Indian businesses adopted management practices common in developed countries, they would expand and boost productivity.
Terms in Seattle-area rental ads reinforce neighborhood segregation
A University of Washington study found that rental ads in Seattle's predominantly white neighborhoods often emphasize 'vintage charm' and history, while neighborhoods with more people of color focus on safety and security. The study suggests that these linguistic patterns can influence housing choices and perpetuate racial segregation.
Harvard research identifies business travel as driver of economic growth
New Harvard research reveals a direct link between incoming business travel and economic growth, ranking countries by knowhow flow. The study raises concerns about the consequences of international travel restrictions on global GDP, suggesting a potential double-digit loss if business travel were to halt completely.
How creating an "empathy lens" makes P2P marketing communications more effective
Researchers from The Ohio State University found that provider-focused marketing communications, which use an 'empathy lens,' increase consumers' likelihood of purchase and willingness to pay. This approach can drive important brand outcomes for P2P brands, particularly start-up companies.
The Lancet: World population likely to shrink after mid-century, forecasting major shifts in global population and economic power
The world population is projected to peak at 9.7 billion in 2064 and decline to 8.8 billion by 2100 due to low fertility rates. Liberal immigration policies are necessary to maintain population size and economic growth, with the US workforce forecasted to be sustained through large net immigration.
Global threats: How lessons from COVID-19 can prevent environmental meltdown
The article highlights the similarities between COVID-19 and environmental threats, emphasizing the need for early intervention to mitigate catastrophic effects. Delayed action will lead to increased mortality rates, climate risks, and species losses.
Learn from the pandemic to prevent environmental catastrophe, scientists argue
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic shares similarities with global heating and species extinction, highlighting the need for early intervention and collective action. Researchers argue that delays in addressing these crises have devastating consequences, including loss of life and economic damage.
Overconsumption and growth economy key drivers of environmental crises
A review by researchers identifies the link between wealth, economy, and environmental impacts, highlighting the need for structural change to address affluence. Lifestyle changes are crucial, but also, broader economic paradigm shifts are necessary to manage economies in a way that protects climate and natural resources.
Ancient societies hold lessons for modern cities
A study published in Science Advances finds that as ancient Pueblo villages grew in size, their residents' per capita production of food and goods increased. This suggests that busy streets may lead to better-off citizens. The research provides a lesson for modern cities on the benefits of social connection and urbanization.
UK firms 'jumping before they're pushed' in £10bn export switch to non-EU markets
A new study by Aston University reveals UK small and micro-exporters are switching €10 billion annually in exports from EU to Commonwealth and other developed economies. This defies conventional trade gravity models, suggesting the firms' 'jumping before they're pushed', driven by uncertainty over Brexit trade talks.
Learn from past to protect oceans
Historical examples of sustainable and unsustainable fishing practices reveal common 'recipes for failure' that offer warnings for modern-day ocean management. Successful societies achieved balance between economic growth, social equity, and sustainability by managing resources fairly and responding to change.
Economic growth is incompatible with biodiversity conservation
The article concludes that economic growth is not compatible with biodiversity conservation and proposes seven alternative proposals to ensure prosperity beyond growth. The studies outlines actions such as limiting commercialization of resources, restricting extractive industries, and promoting agro-ecological development.
The physics that drives periodic economic downturns
Professor Adrian Bejan explains how the physics of spreading and growth can lead to economic downturns, but also highlights the potential for innovation and creativity to drive new growth and prosperity.
'Rosetta stone' for urban scaling makes sense of how cities change across time and space
Researchers have created a 'Rosetta stone' for urban scaling, mapping out common ground between cross-sectional and temporal approaches to study city growth. The framework reveals new insights about a city's behavior, including superlinear growth in socioeconomic properties.
Climate costs smallest if warming is limited to 2°C
Researchers found that limiting temperature increase to 2°C yields economically optimal results; climate policies can balance damages and mitigation costs. The study tested various uncertainties and confirmed the 2°C limit is cost-efficient across different climate sensitivities.
Drivers of CO2 emissions in China
Economic growth and population expansion were major contributors to China's energy-related CO2 emissions increase between 1978 and 2023. Carbon and energy intensity have slowed the growth rate of CO2 emissions, suggesting a low growth rate for future increases.
Study: US takes 'low road' to growth with adverse impact on wellbeing, future prosperity
A new study published in the Cambridge Journal of Economics finds that countries taking the 'low road' to growth, like the US, experience adverse effects on wellbeing and future prosperity. In contrast, Scandinavian countries that take the 'high road' by investing in social reproduction see positive effects on human welfare.
Achieving a safe and just future for the ocean economy
A team of international researchers recommends establishing a global coordinating body to develop international guidelines and promoting equitable sharing of benefits in the Blue Economy. This will help ensure sustainable and inclusive development, mitigating potential harms on marine environments and human well-being.
Environmental pollution in China begins decreasing
A recent international research study published in Science Advances journal shows that environmental awareness and investments in China over the past decade have led to a weakening of the connection between economic growth and pollution. Despite this progress, major challenges remain, including increasing greenhouse gas emissions.
New method of analyzing networks reveals hidden patterns in data
Researchers at Penn State developed a new method to measure network changes over time, revealing key insights into the world economy's response to the 2008-2009 financial crisis. The study found significant rewiring in the global economy during this period, and its impact on countries' economic growth rates.
Renewable and nonrenewable energy in Myanmar's economic growth
A mathematical model confirms that renewable energy accelerates economic growth in Myanmar, while non-renewable energy has a minimal impact. The study suggests increasing green energy use can lead to economic growth of up to 0.3 units per unit increase.
Strongman leaders make for weak economies, study finds
A study of dictators over 150 years shows they rarely promote strong economies and often weaken them. Autocratic leaders are found to have little influence in driving economic growth, but can significantly reduce it after taking power.
Wood products mitigate less than 1% of global carbon emissions
Research finds that wood products globally mitigate only 1% of annual carbon emissions, but countries with large timber industries like Sweden can offset up to 9%. Wood product carbon sequestration is sensitive to economic conditions, and the current UN guidelines create a gap in accounting for uncounted carbon.
Big city growth escalates the urban-rural divide
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that cities grow in parallel, revealing a widening urban-rural divide and increased regional inequality. The research uses Swedish population registers to analyze city growth trajectories, finding that smaller cities face significant economic shocks and structural changes.
Augmenting microgrid technology: A new way for reliable power
A new microgrid system designed by American and Chinese researchers promises improved stability, safety, and resilience in delivering energy. The system aligns several energy sources in parallel and uses a decentralized control algorithm to overcome the burdens of system overload and shutdown.
Mangroves and storm protection
A study analyzed data on 2,000 coastal communities in 23 countries with substantial mangrove areas, finding that even modest coverage can protect economic activity from cyclones. The analysis estimated a permanent loss of 5.4-6.7 months' worth of economic activity for communities with minimal mangrove coverage.
Human capital benefits of military boost economy by billions
A recent study by North Carolina State University estimates that US government spending on military personnel improves the American workforce, with a positive impact of $89.8 billion on the economy in 2019. This improvement is attributed to human capital investments made by the military through personnel training and education efforts.