Discussing the people, ideas, and companies that redefine capitalism and inspire positive change
Urban Partnership Bank, the reincarnation of pioneer CDFI ShoreBank Corp, cut its workforce by 20% last week. Is this a necessary evil to continue a good banking mission? ShoreBank, the Chicago-based community bank that since 1973 was a leader in the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) industry, was seized by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) on [...]
The New York Times is reporting that major multinational banks are growing weary of delivering debt to industrial extraction projects, such as mountaintop removal coal mining in West Virginia. The piece looks at a recent policy shift by Wells Fargo in providing financing for coal projects: “In the most recent example, the banking giant Wells [...]
Two decades have past since a solar thermal power plant has been approved in California and on Wednesday, the California Energy Commission approved a 250 mega-watt solar thermal plant. The Beacon Solar Energy Project will be a step forward for California coming closer to the law that was set out for investor-owned utility companies to [...]
As the saying goes, “Laughter is the best medicine.” So with this little nugget in mind, every Sunday at The Inspired Economist, we will post a satirical cartoon or an item that’s just plain silly. Here’s to starting off your week with a provocative thought and a smile… Created by David Horsey, political cartoonist Let’s [...]
With corporate hiring returning to a deep freeze and the Dow hanging north of 10,000 by its fingertips, CSR programs focused on eco-efficiencies — LED lighting in…um…the freezer section — remain priorities for the retail market. This is particularly the case when companies open or renovate new facilities. A Sunday Chicago Tribune Business feature by [...]
