A fast food canary in the coal mine

Published: July 29, 2024, 11:18 p.m.

McDonald’s reported weak sales in its second quarter. A slowdown in restaurant spending \u2014 if that’s what’s happening \u2014 may signal an economic downturn is brewing. Or, are the chain’s underwhelming results a byproduct of pandemic spending trends or rising wages? Also in this episode: Being a firstborn kid has its economic advantages and three major central banks are meeting this week. Plus, we’ll explain how maximum employment is measured.