Latest Insights
The Great Firewall takes on VPNs
China’s Security Council seems bent on expanding internet restrictions nationwide. Following new legislation in June this year, the crackdown has been swift: even major firms such as Apple and Whatsapp are on the chopping block. The recent banning of VPN services has huge implications for multinationals and the foreign employees that they hire.
The Week Ahead
Countries move to deescalate tensions between North Korea and the United States. UK may further signal its Brexit intentions with Ireland amid customs position papers. EBRD and Egypt to sign
Three problems facing Spain’s government today
The medium term outlook in Spain is under pressure from three issues. Its politicians will have to act judiciously to avoid a constitutional crisis.
Under the Radar: Doklam standoff highlights India and China’s ‘Great Game’ over Bhutan
There is far more at stake than 34 square kilometers of desolate, windswept rocks. Doklam shows that old habits die hard, and Bhutan is stuck in the middle.
Italy’s banking dilemma: Improving, but still needing help
Italy’s banking industry has gone through a recent rough period. But with an infusion of new funds and a call for much needed reforms, there may be a chance that there will be improvement.
The growing water crisis in China
The reverberations of China’s water security crisis have already had global implications, notably encouraging the Arab Spring.
Algeria’s battle against terror
The Islamic State in Algeria has faced a pushback as the local authorities are no strangers to counterterrorism.
Significant Barriers Remain for Asia’s RCEP deal
India’s commerce secretary claims “enough political will [exists] to expedite the conclusion” of RCEP. Yet many barriers, both economic & political remain.
Activist investors: More harm than good
The role of activist investors in American boardrooms has grown in recent years. But the dilemma is whether they make a positive impact on a company or do more harm than good.
Trump’s burn book: NAFTA negotiations will only extend Chinese influence in the Americas
Trump once labelled NAFTA, “the worst trade deal maybe ever signed anywhere”. This month, he unveiled the NAFTA negotiating agenda, providing a template for trade negotiations yet to occur with other countries – such as China, Germany, and Japan. With an emphasis on tackling tax systems and removing barriers to the US agriculture and manufacturing industries, Asian negotiators will be watching closely.
