Tuesday's Assorted Links

Ringtones, coffee prices, potato cartel, gift giving, and returns

Hi y’all! Here are five stories from this week that contained some neat applications of economic principles or are related to teaching:

1. Ringtones are still a multi-million dollar industry [Sherwood News]

2. Poor growing weather in Brazil and Vietnam, the leading suppliers of arabica and robusta beans, respectively, has caused coffee futures to hit their highest level since 1977 [Semafor]

3. A new lawsuit claims that a ‘potato cartel’ conspired to make your frozen fries 47% more expensive [Fortune]

4. Research from psychology, behavior, and decision-making reveals gift-giving tips and mistakes [Science News]

5. Returns in 2024 are projected to make up ~17% of all merchandise sales — totaling $890 billion [CNBC]

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Are people born wicked, or do they have wickedness thrust upon them? Wicked’s Glinda and Elphaba might offer an answer. Their journey as roommates at Shiz University doesn’t just tell a magical story—it mirrors real-world economic research into peer effects. Who we live with can shape our achievements, from academics to personal growth.

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