Morning Business Report: Cracker Barrel logo backlash, immigration drop, car loans

Cracker Barrel apologized for confusion over its new logo.

(LILAMAX)- Cracker Barrel apologized for confusion over its new logo, admitting the restaurant chain “could’ve done a better job sharing who we are and who we’ll always be.”

The Lebanon, Tennessee-based company emphasized that its core values — hard work, family, and scratch-cooked food made with care — have not and will never change.  Despite some customer backlash, Cracker Barrel said research shows 87% of respondents either liked or loved the new logo.

In the broader economy, a historic drop in immigration is reshaping the job market. While lower labor demand typically affects unemployment rates, analysts say the current slump may not push joblessness higher. The last time net immigration was this low was in the 1960s, when baby boomers entering the workforce helped power the economy.

Stock markets slid across the board after Friday’s big interest rate cut rally. Investors are now focused on upcoming events, including NVIDIA’s earnings report and an inflation number due this Friday.

On the consumer side, seven-year car loans are becoming increasingly common, accounting for 22% of all new-vehicle financing in the second quarter of 2025. Longer-term loans can make monthly payments more affordable, but buyers often end up paying more in interest. Eight-year car loans are also on the rise.

Housing affordability remains a pressing concern. A survey commissioned by BUILT and conducted by Talker Research found that more than half of Americans feel they spend too much on housing, with the average person devoting 42% of annual income to home-related costs. More than 40% of parents said they either don’t believe or aren’t sure their children will be able to afford living in the same neighborhood they grew up in.