The Federal Reserve is the ethereal force that silently guides the economy, influencing prices, employment, and ultimately, our lives. Using the powerful tool of monetary policy, the Fed can steer interest rates on a calculated path, deftly influencing the economic landscape.

As consumers increasingly seek out convenience and personalization, retailers must stay abreast of changing spending habits and respond in kind. By monitoring changes in consumer behavior and spending trends, retailers can ensure they remain competitive.

When the markets are volatile and an economic slowdown is on the horizon, it's important to be aware of the warning signs. Keeping an eye out for key indicators of a recession can help you stay on top of potential risks.

Economic forecasting can be intimidating, but analyzing leading indicators -- such as consumer sentiment, corporate earnings, housing starts, and employment numbers -- can help you better predict the future.

As climate change continues to impact the world's economies and societies, governments and businesses must adapt to the economic costs of a changing environment. The key will be to find an effective balance between providing for the present and preparing for the future.

As nations seek to recover from the blows inflicted by the economic downturns of the past, one of the most important lessons to be learned is the importance of preparedness. With economic recessions often predicted in advance, countries must be able to decide upon, and implement, strategies to soften the impact of the downturn.

As global trade tensions mount, governments and markets around the world face a period of unprecedented volatility and anxiety. What will be the implications of these tit-for-tat trade wars, and how will economies adapt?

The economic gap between the rich and the poor is wider than ever. As wealth continues to be concentrated into the hands of an elite few, the majority of the population remains stagnant. With income inequality only growing, the need for economic equity is stronger than ever.

The rise of the gig economy has drastically changed the way we think about labor and income. Gone are the days of set salaries and secretive working practices, as more and more freelance and contract work become the rule rather than the exception.

As prices rise, the purchasing power of consumers is negatively affected by inflation, while deflation encourages increased consumer demand by lowering prices and creating a buying opportunity. Learn how to manage your finances in the face of changing prices.