North America
US-Cuba thaw has a long road ahead
President Obama’s decision to re-establish relations with Cuba this week will yield a short-term uptick in bilateral trade, but realization of long-term investment opportunities remain some ways off. Wednesday’s bombshell that
Will low oil prices affect the US Fed’s decisions?
Falling oil prices are the newest wrench in the Fed’s decision making, but the effect might seem counter-intuitive. Since the Fed’s last meeting in October, oil prices have fallen 25%. With
Four consequences of Obama’s immigration action
The rift between Republican and Democratic characterizations of President Obama’s executive order on undocumented immigrants could hardly be wider. The actions, which were carefully announced after the midterm elections but
Are low interest rates deflationary?
The benefits of any activity should outweigh the costs. Risk should be commensurate with return. In fact and theory, risk and return are inseparable. Analysts say the relationship between risk
What to look for in the bond market in 2015
Investors are nervous about the state of the US bond market in the face of recent yield drop-offs. Here are some expectations for the bond market in 2015. The day after midterm
Will US shale oil undermine its own success?
The US shale revolution has remarkably influenced global energy markets over the past five years. Can falling oil prices tarnish the extraordinary success of hydraulic fracturing in the US and
Midterm Series: What will it mean for energy markets?
Results of the midterm elections and local state races and the ensuing hydraulic fracturing and coal policies will affect international energy markets. Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, with strong ties
Headwinds for the US and UK economies
Economies in the UK and US are bright spots in the developed world, but not quite bright enough to instill confidence. If there has been one trend across the developed
Midterm Series: How the elections will affect US trade policies
A Republican Senate could drag out negotiations between the United States and EU, and between the United States and Pacific Rim countries, for at least the next 2 years. This
Mexico’s security situation worsens
Despite significant efforts by the Nieto government, Mexico has been unable to curb the influence of organised crime and establish security across the country. The disappearance of 43 students is
