Marketplace Morning Report

We’ve been deluged with the annual economic and market forecasts that traditionally mark the turn of a new year. Is it worth paying attention to these forecasts, or are they a waste of time? Maybe a little bit of both? Today, we're joined by Marketplace senior economics contributor Chris Farrell to assess their worth. But first, we'll discuss some of the forecasts and market conditions the Federal Reserve has in mind at this week's meeting. And, Boeing’s revenue is up, as are its airplane delivery numbers.

There's a chance that the federal government will shut down late this week over reform and funding for the Department of Homeland Security, which also includes ICE. We'll break down the likelihood of a shutdown, demands of Senate Democrats, and potential impacts to ICE. Plus, the Fed likely won't cut interest rates today. And the 2026 World Cup is expected to draw millions of foreign visitors. Will U.S. authorities let them in?

From the BBC World Service: One of the world’s leading technology bosses has warned there could be “carnage" if a bubble in AI share prices bursts. The chief executive of Cisco, Chuck Robbins, has told the BBC that while some companies won’t survive, artificial intelligence will be “bigger than the internet.” Plus, we take you to Saudi Arabia, where the construction of a huge skyscraper — 20 times the size of the Empire State Building — has been suspended.

President Donald Trump is rolling out plans to make housing more affordable. He's ordered Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase $200 billion in mortgage bonds, proposed a ban on private equity purchasing single-family homes, and floated the idea of 50-year mortgages — all while continuing his pressure campaign on the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates. Will they work? Also, tech earnings this week will offer investors a window into the AI boom, and what we’re watching as the Fed meets.

Freezing temperatures and ice over the past weekend have impacted agricultural industries across the U.S. This morning, we'll learn about its effects on timber, sugar cane, crawfish, cattle, and more. But first, major U.S. insurance companies are down in premarket trading after a small projected rate increase for privatized Medicare Advantage plans. And, from Marketplace’s "Make Me Smart," federal student loan borrowers in default won't experience wage or tax garnishment — yet.