Author: Ed Lotterman

Oligopolists lose at “follow the leader”

It’s April and spring, and it seems that crocuses and examples of oligopolistic behavior are busting out all over. Last week’s example was Iraq announcing a 30-day suspension of oil sales. This week’s example was Continental Airlines announcing a fare…

California ban on pulling weeds tugs at larger issues

California may ban pulling weeds by hand. Don’t worry. People pulling crabgrass out of their rose bushes aren’t going to be handcuffed and strip-searched. But the proposed law would ban hand weeding of most vegetable crops by hired farm workers.…

Similar industries–different views of imports

A major paper manufacturer said last week that it would close a long-established mill in north central Minnesota. Coming after the controversy about President Bush’s imposition of new tariffs on many steel imports, the announced closing of a paper mill…