Daily News 10/29/14

October 29, 2014

Wednesday – October 29

The big foreclosure problems that occurred after the Great Recession seem to be easing in the past few years as the housing sector continues on its road to recovery. Leading global property information, analytics and data-enabled services provider CoreLogic reported today that completed foreclosures in September totaled 46,000, down nearly 33% from the 68,000 completed in September 2013. In addition, completed foreclosures are down a whopping 61% from the peak in 2010.

A recent poll conducted this month by CNN/ORC International found that 38% of Americans feel that the economy is in good shape, which is down from 42% in September. The survey revealed 62% view economic conditions as somewhat poor or very poor. There was somewhat of a disconnect – 43% of urban Americans say it’s in good shape compared to 39% of those surveyed in suburban areas and 31% in rural areas. Rounding out the poll, 52% feel the economy will be in good shape a year from now, while 46% say it will be in poor shape.

In keeping with its values, CostCo announced today that it will be closed on Thanksgiving, bucking the trend of many retailers who have chosen to open on the great American holiday. CostCo said that its employees work very hard during the holiday season and CostCo feels that employees “deserve the opportunity to spend Thanksgiving with their families.” One complaint from Wall Street about CostCo is how well it pays its employees. The company’s hourly wage is around $20.89, which is well above the minimum wage. In addition, the company offers low premium health insurance, and matching and profit sharing in their 401(k) plans.