Last month’s job growth helped shrink the unemployment rate to 3.6%, just above the half-century low of 3.5% that was reached 2 years ago.
Business
Local, state and national business news from the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
Are the whales leaving? Gulf of Maine research raises questions about new lobstering rules
The endangered North Atlantic right whale’s preferred food source is moving north, out of Maine waters. Lobstermen say the change warrants a second look at new fishing restrictions set to take effect May 1.
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Posted inBusiness, Nation & World
Fights over illegal fishing worldwide lead to armed conflict, deaths
An Associated Press review of conflict databases found in the past 5 years more than 360 instances of state authorities ramming or shooting at foreign fishing boats, sometimes leading to deaths.
Posted inBusiness, Nation & World
Stocks end lower, ending market’s worst quarter in two years
Wall Street’s downbeat finish to March comes as investors try to navigate the market risks amid surging inflation and geopolitical instability.
Posted inBusiness, Nation & World
Got a dime? Businesses seek U.S. Treasury’s help with coin shortage
A group of trade associations that represent individual businesses including banks, retail outlets, truck stops, grocery stores and more wants assistance convincing Americans to get coins back in circulation.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State, Nation & World
Seafood industry braces for losses of jobs, fish due to sanctions on Russia
In Maine, more than $50 million in seafood products from Russia passed through Portland in 2021, according to federal statistics.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
President of workforce builder FocusMaine stepping down
Kimberly Hamilton, the organization’s inaugural president, is slated to leave her position on July 1.
Posted inBusiness, Local & State
State launches $16 million grant program for seafood dealers, processors
The program is a component of the governor’s Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan, investing federal American Rescue Plan Act funds in Maine people and businesses.
Posted inBusiness, Nation & World
Putin demands payment in rubles for Russia’s gas, but leaves a loophole
European leaders insist payment will remain in euros and dollars and want to see the fine print of how the decree will be implemented.
Posted inBusiness, Nation & World
OPEC sticks to modest boost in oil despite war jitters
The alliance, which includes Russia, has been unmoved by pleas from oil-consuming countries to pump more oil as energy prices soar.