Latest Insights
California cap-and-trade takes carbon market to new heights
While far from perfect, cap-and-trade emissions trading looks to be the future of combating climate change. California, a new entrant to the scene, is already making a big splash in
After IMF inequality report, what’s next for US tax policy?
The IMF has joined in on the income inequality debate, arguing that rising inequality is depressing economic growth and fueling political instability. Although the issue remains polarizing in the United
Protests in Maan raise tensions in Jordan
While Jordan has managed to avoid the upheaval and violence experienced by other Middles Eastern nations in the wake of the Arab Spring, recent events in Maan are a red
Russia faces expanding regional debt crisis
Recent data released by Russia’s Court of Accounts indicates that the country’s regional governments are facing crisis situations with regional debts. In the past year, the level of total regional
Sanctions on Russia also hit foreign investment
On 28 April 2014, the U.S. launched its third round of sanctions on Russia, aimed at President Vladimir Putin’s cronies and their businesses. As the situation continues to deteriorate, investors
IMF oks Ukraine support plan, but risks could derail it
The $17 billion package will support fiscal adjustment and increased competitiveness. But the threat of losing control of Eastern Ukraine and risks in implementation make stability far from certain. The
New government in the Maldives gets a shaky start
Despite surprising election results, a fractious political landscape will remain a challenge for the Maldives as the country tackles effects of climate change and growing international attention. Following Abdulla Yameen’s surprising victory
With falling commodity prices, Colombia and Peru must focus on industry
Industrial policy remains a secondary issue for policymakers in Colombia and Peru, two Andean countries that strongly benefited from the 2000s commodity boom. They need to revise that prioritization. Academics
Is South Sudan a game-changer in China’s foreign policy?
China’s active bid for South Sudan’s peace deal may mark a shift away from its traditional ‘non-interference’ foreign policy towards a more proactive role in global politics. Despite China’s unprecedented rise
Iran-U.S. relations improving despite nomination setback
Iran-U.S. relations turned especially reactive in April 2014. But buried beneath the tough rhetoric and diplomatic posturing are indications of long-term potential for improved relations. After this tumultuous month of diplomacy,
