Missouri

Theme Parks, Like Worlds of Fun, Face Changes

Theme parks, such as Kansas City's Worlds of Fun, will not be be running in business-as-usual mode when they start to re-open, due to social distancing requirements that will change the capacities of rides. For its part, Worlds of Fun… more

GSEs Change Standards for Mortgage Borrowers

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are offering new deferral options for mortgage payments. The deferral option starts on July 1, reports the American Bankers Association. Borrowers will reportedly have a variety of mortgage-payment options, says the American Bankers Association. Read… more

SBA Loans Scrutinized

The Small Business Administration is scrutinizing PPP loans that were administered. "Those loans—which have been marked by SBA as being in “research” status—must be reviewed for accuracy and completeness. A lender should verify the borrower’s name, EIN or Social Security… more

Slow Awakening From COVID-19 Lockdowns

April was a peak for China’s coronavirus lockdowns, not just in the US, but also worldwide. With lockdowns somewhat easing in May, a limited rebound is already underway. However. it will be at least another week or two before we… more

KC CRE Investment Has Dropped Slightly

During the first quarter, investment activity in commercial real estate decreased by 2.6 percent, though that slide is expected to decrease. Capitalization rates have dropped 47 basis points year over year, and multifamily and office transactions accounted for more than… more

KC Southern Gets Positive Analyst Ratings

While most companies across the metro area are facing tough times, there is some bright news for railroad company Kansas City Southern. The firm apparently has a 13.1-percent upside in income, according to analyst ratings, with 18 analysts considering the… more

COVID-19 Testing Improves in Missouri

COVID-19 testing is increasing in Missouri, according to Missouri Gov. Mike Parson. About 60,000 tests could be performed in Missouri each week if needed, now, he said in his daily news brief. “One of our primary focuses during this pandemic… more

Sporting KC Testing Players, Staff

Preparing for the Major League Soccer season having a reboot, Sporting KC is starting to test players and staff for COVID-19. "All of our players and staff will be taking tests to see if they actually have the virus," said… more

Another 3 Million File for Unemployment

The unemployment picture doesn't seem like it will change in a significant way any time soon. For the week ended May 9, just under three million filed for unemployment insurance, reported the U.S. Department of Labor, following the prior week's… more

KCMO Budget Holding Up…For Now

Kansas City's budget situation is currently holding up despite challenges from COVID-19, but council members are preparing for a scenario that could get worse. So far, there have been no layoffs or furloughs of city employees and a $1.7-billion budget… more