Category: Income Inequality

Wealthy Americans Are Spending. People With Less Are Struggling.

Data show a resilient economy. But that largely reflects spending by the rich, while others pull back amid high prices and a weakening labor market.
Black Unemployment Is Surging Again. This Time Is Different.

Federal layoffs and an end to diversity initiatives have weakened a historically strong labor market for Black workers.
‘Tax the Rich,’ French Protesters Cry, as the Wealthy Push Back on Paying More

With a budget crisis looming, a proposal for a tax on ultrahigh-wealth individuals has grass-roots support, but it adds conflict to an already fragmented political landscape.
With a Hashtag, Young Chinese Are Mourning the ‘Beauty of the Boom Years’

Nostalgia for the fashion and culture of the years after the millennium, when the future held promise for many, is a commentary on today’s mood.
Americans’ Most Valuable Asset Isn’t Stocks or a Home. It’s Social Security.

For the vast majority of people, the stream of promised retirement checks is worth more than anything else, our columnist says.
New York Needs More Millionaires, Fiscal Watchdog Says

A report by the nonpartisan Citizens Budget Commission comes at a time when income inequality and affordability have been the most prominent themes in the race for New York City mayor.
The Complexities of Portraying the Black Elite, From ‘The Gilded Age’ to Ralph Lauren

Recent portrayals of the Black elite have shown the complexities that can come with representing class.
The 6 Social Security Myths That Won’t Go Away

The program gave birth to the idea of retirement and covers nearly all Americans — but now it faces major financial and customer service challenges.
Trade Fueled Inequality. Can Trump’s Tariffs Reduce It?

The president has pitched his trade policies at workers who feel left behind by globalization. But that doesn’t mean trade barriers will revive factories and close income gaps.
Poorest Americans Would Be Hurt By Trump’s Big Bill

Small improvements in taxes are overshadowed by cuts to health insurance and other federal aid, resulting in a package favoring the wealthy.
Ford Foundation’s New Leader Is From Yale Law School

Heather K. Gerken, the dean of the law school, will run the powerful philanthropy, known for pushing for social justice.
Gen Z, It Turns Out, Is Great at Saving for Retirement

They are contributing to their 401(k)s much earlier than millennials did, reports show, and young women in particular are being aggressive about saving.