By Matthew Hayward The Unseen Consequences of the Minimum Wage As an advocate for limited government and free markets, I've often found myself in debates over the minimum wage. It's a contentious issue, with well-meaning proponents arguing that it's necessary to ensure workers can afford basic necessities. However, the minimum wage, while well-intentioned, often does more harm than good. A recent article even suggests that minimum wage laws may contribute to homelessness. The Free Market and the Value of Labor In a genuinely free market, the value of labor is determined by supply and demand. If no one is willing to work for less than a specific wage to roof a house, then the market has found its minimum wage. Conversely, a maximum wage is found if an employer is unwilling to pay more than a certain amount. Pay should be determined based on the value of labor and the willingness to provide that labor. The Unseen Job Loss When a potential job exists but is worth less to the e...

By Matthew Hayward  In recent years, the global economic landscape has seen a significant shift as countries look beyond traditional alliances and forge new partnerships. These partnerships have had far-reaching implications, with some suggesting that they could signal the beginning of a new world order. One such partnership that has caught the attention of many is the recent collaboration between China and France. According to reports, companies from both countries have completed the first cross-border yuan settlement of an LNG trade. This move is significant because it signifies the growing importance of China's currency, the yuan, in global trade. Another significant development in the world of international trade is the recent agreement between Brazil and China to ditch the US dollar in their trade deals. This agreement marks a major shift from the US dollar as the dominant currency in global trade. These developments are not limited to China and its partners. Saudi Arabia and ...