Since the Congressional Budget Office last released its long-term outlook for the federal deficit and strength of the U.S. economy, things have become a teeny bit better. Why? The CBO points to increased immigration and last year’s spending deal struck between Congress and President Joe Biden. And, we’ll get into the looming commercial real-estate reckoning. Plus, we’ll weigh in on tote bags, Free Blockbuster libraries and more in a round of Half Full/Half Empty!

Here’s everything we talked about today:

“PRP Pays $323M For Market Square, D.C.’s Largest Sale In 18 Months” from Bisnow

“Budget Office report credits immigration and spending deals with improved outlook despite huge debt” from AP News

“The Long-Term Budget Outlook: 2024 to 2054” from the CBO

“How the tote bag became the hottest fashion accessory around” from Marketplace

“Tired of Streaming? Free Blockbuster Libraries Offer an Alternative.” from The New York Times

“Encyclopædia Britannica is eyeing a $1 billion valuation in its IPO, report says” from Quartz

“I Pizza A | Voodoo Ranger” from Voodoo Ranger

“Walmart Is Luring Wealthy Shoppers With Blazers and Duck Breast” from Bloomberg

Help us meet our spring fundraiser goal and get your throwback Marketplace swag today!

Immigration and U.S. economic growth 24:50 Share

Make Me Smart

Shownotes Transcript

Immigration and U.S. economic growth