October retail sales spark optimism for the economy - November 16, 2021

President Joe Biden signed the $1 trillion infrastructure bill Monday afternoon. The bill, cut down from its original price tag of $2.3 trillion after months of debate, includes funding for broadband expansion, environmental projects and improvements for transportation infrastructure among other initiatives. Biden’s reliance on I.R.S. enforcement to pay for $1.85 trillion bill hits a snag. - The New York Times Students are still struggling to get internet. The infrastructure law could help - NPR Biden’s infrastructure bill includes $50 billion to fight climate change disasters - CNBC October retail surged 1.7% compared to September’s 0.7% due to early holiday shopping and high gas prices. October’s rise in retail sales signaled the third month of growth in a row. Economist Michael Gapen with Barclay argued that strong retail sales represent a positive sign that the U.S. economy is “back on track.” After rally in U.S. retailers, investors eye upcoming reports - Reuters Consumers rushing to complete holiday shopping due to supply chain concerns - WHSV Supply Chain Challenges Won’t Ruin the Holidays—but They Will Change the Retail Industry - Adweek Recent survey data highlighted a reduction in working hours as the preferred solution to employee burnout with 83% of survey participants saying a reduced workweek would help them tackle burnout in their jobs. Advocates of the 4-day workweek have argued a reduction in work hours may help employers deal with the effects of the Great Resignation, particularly when it comes to attracting new talent. U.S. Faces Crisis of Burned-Out Health Care Workers - U.S. News & World Report 6 Strategies to Boost Retention Through the Great Resignation - Harvard Business Review Robots Filling Vacant Jobs Amid Ongoing 'Great Resignation' - International Business Times Senate Banking Chairman Sherrod Brown said the Biden administration is expected to announce its selection for the chair of the Federal Reserve soon, with a choice forecasted for before the Thanksgiving holiday.