Banks responded to questions the Kansas City Fed asked about regulatory compliance, staffing needs, competitions and more.

Global factors, such as droughts tightening food supplies and the weak dollar making U.S. goods more affordable overseas, mean prosperity for farmers. Historically, a bust followed times like these.

Merger booms have reduced the number of small banks, causing many to worry. Research shows the banks may end up stronger while maintaining customer relationships.

Efforts include free materials, tools and other resources for teachers, students and families.

Each state has a portfolio with a varying assortment of revenue sources, such as income tax and sales tax, which are affected by the health of the economy. In down times, services get cut or taxes are raised.

As housing prices climbed, many people complained that homes had become unaffordable to middle-income Americans. Research shows that homeowners are actually better off today than decades ago.

Looking back at the sector's boom-bust nearly two decades ago offers insight into today's situation.

The cost of Medicare benefits will soon exceed the program's available funds, and its financial woes will far surpass Social Security's as healthcare costs continue to rise faster than economic growth.