Archive
Billions at stake for U.S. retailers in online sales tax debate
Lobbying efforts by brick-and-mortar stores to charge online sales tax could be a big blow to the e-retailer Amazon. One of the key advantages of Amazon.com’s business model is being
Debunking US unemployment numbers
Do not mistake a rosy Bureau of Labor Statistics report for something that it is not. The unemployment rate did decrease in April, but only because 800,000 people exited the labour
Burundi’s new tax system improves investment transparency
Intense efforts at reforming the income tax system have paid off. Investors in East-Africa can rejoice as the playing field for businesses in Burundi is stabilized. An autonomous government agency has overhauled
Sanctions hurt Russian credit rating, energy firms
With the situation in Ukraine entering its most difficult pre-election stage, the growing rift between Russia and the West is starting to affect everyday business. Following the ineffective Geneva Agreement
California cap-and-trade takes carbon market to new heights
While far from perfect, cap-and-trade emissions trading looks to be the future of combating climate change. California, a new entrant to the scene, is already making a big splash in
After IMF inequality report, what’s next for US tax policy?
The IMF has joined in on the income inequality debate, arguing that rising inequality is depressing economic growth and fueling political instability. Although the issue remains polarizing in the United
Protests in Maan raise tensions in Jordan
While Jordan has managed to avoid the upheaval and violence experienced by other Middles Eastern nations in the wake of the Arab Spring, recent events in Maan are a red
Russia faces expanding regional debt crisis
Recent data released by Russia’s Court of Accounts indicates that the country’s regional governments are facing crisis situations with regional debts. In the past year, the level of total regional
Sanctions on Russia also hit foreign investment
On 28 April 2014, the U.S. launched its third round of sanctions on Russia, aimed at President Vladimir Putin’s cronies and their businesses. As the situation continues to deteriorate, investors
IMF oks Ukraine support plan, but risks could derail it
The $17 billion package will support fiscal adjustment and increased competitiveness. But the threat of losing control of Eastern Ukraine and risks in implementation make stability far from certain. The
