As rising prices continue to strain household budgets around the world, understanding who is most affected by inflation has become more urgent than ever. Researchers found that the cost-of-living crisis hit middle- and upper-income households harder than the poorest. A recent study challenges the reliability of traditional inflation measures like the Consumer Price Index and offers fresh insights for designing smarter, more targeted relief policies.

China’s “double reduction” policy, launched in 2021, seeks to ease student stress by limiting homework and curbing off-campus tutoring. Early results show reduced anxiety and greater parent satisfaction, yet challenges remain. Teacher workloads have increased, resource gaps persist in rural schools, and underground tutoring continues. Sustained progress will require systemic reforms and collaboration among schools, families, and policymakers to ensure balanced, high-quality education for all.