Economics
Making History: Coronavirus and Negative Oil Prices
Since the beginning of the Coronavirus pandemic, there has been a loss of 1/3rd global demand – more than 30 million barrels per day (BPD). The virus instilled a level of uncertainty for oil traders, but the catalyst for the initial drop in price can be attributed to the escalating price war between Russia and Saudi for market share, eventually leading Saudi to flood the market with oil.
COVID-19: China’s e-commerce
All markets and industries have struggled under the strain of coronavirus and the measures implemented to combat it. Firms and individuals alike have sought out ways of mobilising solutions in response to the challenges COVID-19 presents.
US: Inflationary pressures are highly unlikely
As a response to the Covid-19 outbreak, the United States unveiled a $2 trillion package in March – the largest of its kind. Aside from the expansion of debt, potential inflation has been a cause for concern. But several factors ensure that broad inflationary pressures will almost certainly be absent during the lockdown, and, likely, in the immediate period after.
Price War: OPEC+
After OPEC ally Russia refused to cut production, Saudi Arabia launched a price war, sending global oil prices to as low as $32 a barrel on March 9th.
Zimbabwe’s President Mnangagwa: One Year Later
Following the ousting of late President Robert Mugabe, Zimbabweans hoped for a real change. One year into the administration of his successor Emmerson Mnangagwa, there are mixed emotions.
EU-Mercosur FTA: Threats and Challenges
When the European Commission announced the signing of the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement, it sounded like a done deal. However, the provisional text must be ratified by all the parliaments of adhering countries, including the European Parliament and Council.
ECB: Systemic problems and future headwinds
At the next European Central Bank policy meeting in September, it is expected to gently lower interest rates to ease the burden on a stagnant Eurozone economy.
Ethiopia’s critical juncture: Ethnic tensions and liberal transition
After a failed coup in June, ethnic violence and repression are on the rise in Ethiopia.
Tariffs bite in North Kosovo, but how badly?
On 21st November 2018 Kosovo imposed 100% tariffs on goods from Serbia. On 1st July 2019, businesses in the Serb-dominated north Kosovo shut their doors and protested against the policy.
Pressure Mounting on China’s Services Sector
China’s services sector has been instrumental in maintaining its economic growth as its low quality manufacturing advantages erode. Even so, signs of mounting pressure on the sector are becoming apparent.
