Latest Insights
US sanctions on Venezuela may strengthen Maduro regime
The US decision to impose sanctions on seven Venezuelan officials earlier this month seems innocuous enough. But the language accompanying the imposition does little to help US objectives, and may
Will Germany build the next Silicon Valley?
While Germany has the economic and human capital to rival Silicon Valley, it is hindered by its laws and staid investment culture – yet changes are afoot. German Silicon Valley
Sweden-Saudi Arabia diplomatic row intensifies
Saudi Arabia reacted sharply after Sweden’s foreign minister criticised the imprisonment of activist Raif Badawi and the overall human rights situation in the country. Riyadh withdrew its ambassador and cancelled
Solar gas promises to upset energy politics
Solar gas technology is the product of formidable innovations and research in the field of emissions-free technologies. This fairly new source of energy presents governments and private enterprises with the
The Opportunities of China’s “One Belt One Road”
China is stepping up efforts to establish two transcontinental New Silk Roads that connect Asia, Europe, and Africa in trade, development, and culture. While promising economic gains, this new framework
Is Japans structural reform blocked by vested interests?
Abe’s recent re-election will bring continued commitment to reform and economic restructuring. However, domestic interest groups and economic stagnation continues to pose serious challenges. Japan is the world’s third largest
Weekly Risk Outlook
Germany and Greece leaders meet to talk about economic concerns. Singapore hosts summit on rubber prices. Brazil waits to hear central bank address. The French far right hope for strong
Egypt Economic Development Conference ignores underlying issues
The Egypt Economic Development Conference this past weekend drew 1,700 investors and government leaders from 90 countries to Egypt’s resort town of Sharm El-Sheikh. The conference brought Egypt’s struggling economy
EU-Russia energy relations at lowest point since Cold War
It has been one year since the controversial referendum on Crimean independency took place under the protection of Russian arms and the factual annexation of the strategically important peninsula in
Environmental protests challenge Algeria fracking
Algeria is home to world’s third largest shale deposits behind China and Afghanistan. If exploited, shale gas could provide an important boost to its energy exports. A new project to
