Economics
Political risk to watch in 2014
Turkey, China and Brazil face a difficult year ahead in more ways than one: economic growth forecasts, political stability and foreign direct investment prospects are likely to take a hit.
Offshore Act aims to tackle tax fraud in Bulgaria
On December 20th, Bulgaria’s Parliament passed a law banning offshore companies from 28 key economic sectors, from banking to insurance funds and media ownership. Although this act is likely to further
Tokyo is passing its first TPP test with agricultural reform
The recent break by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party from the traditional partner, the agricultural lobby, and following announcements of a new agricultural policy heighten hope for the Trans-Pacific Partnership and
Central banks rely on forward guidance
As interest rates remain low among developed economies, shaping expectations through communication is proving to be an effective monetary tool. Communicating the taper At its last monetary policy meeting, the
One year in, is the honeymoon over for Abenomics?
Shinzo Abe celebrated his first year as Japanese Prime Minister in December, which also marked one year with Abenomics. For many, this will be a dismal anniversary, as the latest
Sochi Winter Olympics are the costliest Games ever
The Sochi Olympics, due to be held next February, will be the biggest international event hosted by Russia since the fall of the Soviet Union. While the event aims to
What to watch for in the TPP trade negotiations
An ambitious free trade agreement between twelve Pacific Rim countries could mirror NAFTA negotiations, with added wrinkles from China and new technologies. U.S. trade delegations are currently reaching across both
The Ukraine-Russian trade deal puts Kiev firmly in the hands of Moscow
On December 17, 2013, Russia agreed to give US$15 billion in economic aid to Ukraine and significantly cut the price on natural gas exported to Ukraine. The deal will have
Fed mulls taper, possible changes in guidance
A strong December U.S. jobs report has fueled speculation on the possibility of a taper of asset purchases in December or January. However, job numbers are not clear-cut for a
Is Germany’s proposed minimum a Euro-zone win-win?
Germany is about to set a statutory minimum wage as Angela Merkel gave in to the demands of the Social Democrats in an attempt to form a coalition government. Can
