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Jobs in transition: Energy sector employment fell about 1% nationwide and in Louisiana from 2024 to 2025, with Louisiana losing 1,131 jobs to reach roughly 160,000 workers. The decline was driven largely by automation, policy changes affecting renewable energy, and shifting economics, while traditional energy industries such as coal and nuclear saw job growth. Despite the losses, the Department of Energy expects demand for energy workers to rise as electricity use and data centers expand, with technology creating a smaller, more highly paid workforce. The Center Square has the full story.
Optimism wanes: U.S. small business confidence slipped in August, with the NFIB optimism index falling 1.1 points to 98.7, though it remained above its long-term average. Uncertainty stayed elevated as sales weakened, inflation concerns rose and expectations for improved business conditions dropped. Hiring plans also softened, with 17% of owners planning to add jobs over the next three months, down three points from July. The Wall Street Journal has the full story.
Threats to trade: Global maritime authorities warned that growing “parallel systems” and diverging trade rules are fragmenting international shipping, raising costs and undermining safety and trust. Geopolitical conflicts, sanctions evasion and an expanding shadow fleet are worsening disruptions and turning key shipping routes into sources of leverage and risk. The Consultative Shipping Group urged countries to strengthen enforcement of international rules and cooperation to preserve a stable, open global trading system. CNBC has the full story.
