Posts From David Wille

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Middle East/North Africa Security

Dead or alive ISIS is a threat to Jordan

While regional instability has negatively impacted Jordan’s economy, paradoxically the potential defeat of ISIS, also increases Jordan’s short-term political risks. Earlier this month, Jordan revealed that a gunmen opened fire

Finance International

A primer on political risk insurance

The political risk insurance industry is a $2 trillion industry. What does it do, who are the major players, and how is the industry responding to a looming global economic

Economics Middle East/North Africa

Xi Jinping’s visit to the Middle East: what’s in store for Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iran?

The Chinese president’s visits to Riyadh, Cairo, and Tehran signal an expanding role for China in the Middle East. But China’s uncertain economic prospects and antagonism toward Western dominance mean

Middle East/North Africa Politics

Does a New Parliament Signal a Shift for Egypt?

Last Sunday, Egypt’s newly-elected parliament held its first meeting since the 2012 expulsion of former President Mohammed Morsi. But the new class of legislators have little chance of serving as

Europe Politics

Three reasons why Europe should welcome migrants

European economies could experience a significant long-term boost from accepting more refugees from war-torn countries like Syria and Iraq. But high short-term costs and inflexible labor markets could limit the

Middle East/North Africa Natural resources and energy Politics

“Supergiant” gas field could transform Egypt’s energy industry

The discovery of a massive natural gas field could take pressure off of Egyptians suffering from a historic energy crisis. But the find throws into question a pending deal with

Middle East/North Africa Natural resources and energy

The China slowdown: Who loses in the Middle East?

Recent volatility in China’s stock market signals investors’ general skepticism about the economy’s prospects. However, Middle East oil exporters may stand to lose the most if the growth of Chinese

Economics Middle East/North Africa

Suez Canal expansion informs investors about Egypt’s other mega-projects

The brand-new expansion of Egypt’s Suez Canal was meant to be a symbol of the country’s return to stability. But Egypt’s questionable history with mega-projects, and the persistence of more

Middle East/North Africa Politics

The roots of Iraq’s coming financial crisis

Low oil prices and the battle against Islamic State (IS) are pushing Iraq toward a financial crisis. Only fundamental reforms, especially decentralization of power, can resolve the challenges facing Iraq

Economics Middle East/North Africa

Will Sisi succeed in taking on Egypt’s subsidies?

To make Egypt a more attractive home for investment, President Sisi made tackling unsustainable food and energy subsidies a top priority. A year later, it is still unclear whether Sisi’s