Portland State Economics Professor Shares Expertise on Holiday Economics and Regional Economic Challenges

Over the past eight months, Professor Rajiv Sharma has brought economic expertise to regional and national media conversations on pressing financial issues affecting Oregon families and businesses. From holiday shopping trends and inflation's impact on consumer behavior to health care affordability and major workforce disruptions, the professor's commentary has appeared across leading local and national outlets.

Recent appearances have focused on timely economic concerns shaping household budgets this season. In late November, Professor Sharma discussed how economic uncertainty influences consumer spending patterns during the crucial holiday shopping period, noting the outsized role of high-income earners in driving holiday sales. Earlier in the month, analysis of rising health insurance premiums and expiring enhanced tax credits under the Affordable Care Act highlighted the sticker shock many middle-income families face in 2025.

Broader economic challenges have also received attention, including coverage of Intel's significant workforce reductions and their implications for the greater Portland area, as well as discussion of how tariff policies may affect local businesses and consumers.