Economics
The geopolitical implications of North Korean mineral reserves
The recent discovery of rare earth mineral reserves in North Korea has the potential to redefine the country’s long-term prospects and radically alter geopolitics within the region. Thinking about the North
US Cities Series: Pittsburgh makes its mark as an international city
A model of economic transformation, Pittsburgh today is known for its innovation, energy, and as a center for education and healthcare. But is the Steel City on track to become
US “Alliance for Prosperity” program could deepen troubles in Central America
The recent U.S. Alliance for Prosperity program seems to offer new solutions in alleviating the underlying problems in Central and Latin America. However, the program seems to be a déjà vu
Brazilian exporters seek boost after Petrobras scandal
The economical and political tsunami that struck the Brazilian economy after the Petrobras scandal might be starting to lose strength with the tight new measures that Dilma Rousseff’s administration is
US Cities Series: Competitive clusters drive sustainable growth in Seattle
Seattle seeks to utilise its past reputation for innovation and frontier spirit to stay ahead competitively, while implementing welfare policies that buck the national trend. The city of Seattle has
Political risk looms over Russian IT sector
Information technology is a rare example of a globally competitive, non-natural resources sector in the Russian economy. Yet, government attention to this industry has led to clumsy regulations and higher political
US Cities Series: Innovation, growth, and ambition in Kansas City
Usually, the Midwest is not known for technological innovation. Kansas City is rapidly changing that. Those residing outside of the Kansas City metropolitan area could be forgiven for associating the
US Cities Series: Minneapolis excels with public investment philosophy
Having avoided a race-to-the-bottom of tax breaks to lure businesses, Minneapolis-St. Paul’s long-term approach to public investments is key to its economic success. For the coldest metropolitan area in the
Why does everybody love Chile?
Replacing Brazil as a potential regional leader and as a viable destination for successful businesses, the Andean country has become the go-to-market of Latin America. However, with recent political scandals many
Weekly Risk Outlook
Metals companies meet to discuss mineral markets. US Senate prepares to vote on several bills and nominations. World Bank and IMF release bellwether economic data. Bank of Japan releases monetary

