Cost of Living

Couche-Tard is bidding to take over the global convenience store giant, 7-Eleven. It's the kind of big swing we rarely see from corporate Canada. So, what are the chances it will succeed? Plus, why the cost of AC is about to go up faster than temperatures in July. And, how much would you pay to have brunch with your favorite reality TV star? 

More businesses are using biometrics to clock in their workers, so what does that mean for privacy and security? Also, surprise! The banks just lowered the limit on your credit card. Find out why. Plus, the former head of Research in Motion explains why Canada is falling behind in the knowledge economy. 

Five pounds of onions for 50 cents??!! We explain how independent grocers are able to sell produce at such low prices. Also, why it's become trendy to barter instead of pay cash and — the mystery and history of Visa.

Paul Haavardsrud talks to an economist about why it's not time to party, quite yet. Plus, how more Gen Z's are "loud budgeting" and what it means for competition and democracy after a judge ruled it illegal for Google to pay Apple to be their default browser. 

Matt Stoller has been raising the alarm about corporate monopolies for years. Following this week's antitrust ruling against Google, the research director at the American Economic Liberties Project talks to Paul Haavardsrud about why this may spell the beginning of the end for Big Tech's wild west era. 

We explore what the rise of AI could mean for global power. Also, why more companies are getting new ideas for products from customers and why Big Grocer is watching you.

Canadians under 65 are now more likely to experience poverty than seniors, so is it time to throw some discounts their way? Also, why Reddit is eclipsing Facebook and X and how the economics of today's music industry force musicians to squeeze their superfans.

Do you know where all your money is? With $2 billion in unclaimed cash in Canada, we'll tell you how to figure out if some of it's yours. Also, Mandy Rennehan (the blue-collar CEO) explains how a shortage of tradespeople costs us all and we explore why Canada becoming poorer than many of its friends. 

J.Crew, Aldo and Modrobes are making a comeback — we explain why they're worth resurrecting. Also, how malls are designed to keep you feeling lost, happy and shopping. Plus, the real life Succession story of the Rogers family. (Originally aired March 17, 2024)

More places — arenas, concert halls, amusement parks — are saying no to cash. But should it be illegal to refuse legal tender? Also, why are some kitchen gadgets a hit (hello, air fryer!) and others miss? Plus, how to score cheap concert tickets by playing the waiting game.

Shein has risen to the top with ultra-low prices — but at what cost? Plus, how tipping has pushed some customers to the tipping point. And remember when musicians selling out was a bad thing? Well, those days are over.

After years of vehicle shortages and high prices, car deals are back, baby! Also, how job seekers are beating HR screening bots at their own game by using AI to write their resumes. Plus, why people pay for a brush with celebrity...even if that celeb is a D-lister.

Ever notice how everything from SUVs to condos are a version of gray or white? We explore why dusty rose and avocado have given way to the age of greige. Also, how nostalgia is turning Pokémon cards into big business and why more companies are moving into coworking spaces.

As Huy Fong sriracha halts production again, we explore whether its most loyal fans will keep rallying for the iconic rooster. Also, how to play the currency game when you're planning a vacation and why we're always so ready to believe in the "Next Big Thing."

The Bank of Canada may finally lower the interest rate this week, but is that a good thing? Also, why it's become trendy to barter instead of pay cash. Swap your breadmaker for banana bread? Plus, what the rise of AI could mean for global power. 

Whether it's a loan or co-signing a mortgage, more adult kids are getting help from their parents. So, what should you know before mixing love and money? Also, why more companies are tapping their customers for inspiration. And — to pay or not to pay? — what companies are faced with when cyber criminals come after their data. 

Do boycotts work and why does it seem that escalators and elevators are always out of order? Also, why is gas more expensive in summer than winter and will the new capital gains tax increase hurt innovation?

The federal government is under a lot of pressure to bring grocery prices down. One idea? Create more competition — but how do we do that? Also, a formula to figure out whether you're getting value from your wardrobe. Plus, how the economics of today's music industry force musicians to squeeze their superfans.

As banks crack down on money laundering in real estate, ordinary people are having to jump through more hoops to get a mortgage. We'll also explain "The Great Exhaustion" and the origin story behind the game of Monopoly.