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International Special Reports Technology and infrastructure

Special Report: Cryptocurrency’s future may depend on cybersecurity

Despite the excitement around all things crypto, the proliferation of cryptocurrency ventures is generating new cybersecurity risks. How governments and industry manage those risks may determine the future of the crypto market.

Latin America Natural resources and energy

Pre-salt reserves make Brazil ripe for investment, but risk remains

On October 27, 2017, new auction rounds for the eight pre-salt blocks in Brazil were launched. As the Brazilian government approved a new regulatory framework for the bidding process to allow more investors, 14 foreign companies and two Brazilian entities were qualified to participate in the auction.

International Politics The Week Ahead

The Week Ahead: 30 April – 6 May 2018

The EU releases budget as it struggles with Brexit reality. Lebanon votes in parliamentary elections. Korea negotiations face skepticism. All in The Week Ahead. 

Asia Pacific Security

Australia wary of China’s growing stake in the South Pacific

China’s growing interest in the South Pacific will have alerted key Australian political and defence officials. Should Beijing eventually opt to establish a military base in this region, Canberra will have a firm action plan in place designed to counter China’s influence and reinforce Australia’s regional preeminence.

International Natural resources and energy

The Energy Briefing: Oil market implications of re-imposing sanctions on Iran

The looming threat of renewed US sanctions on Iran’s oil and gas sector could pull hundreds of thousands of barrels off the market, tightening demand balances and throwing off investment plans.

Middle East/North Africa Security

All sides deepen the conflict in Yemen

Over the past three years, the civil war in Yemen has expanded internationally. Most recently, the Houthis have increased missile attacks against Saudi Arabia, and though Saudi air defenses have neutralized these launches, they propagate further escalation of the conflict in Yemen.

Europe Politics

The “Velvet Revolution” in Armenia: Cosmetic change or potential for democratic development?

On the 23rd of April, Armenian Prime Minister and ex-President Serzh Sargsyan unexpectedly resigned his post after almost two weeks of mass protests. People in the streets celebrated the change, but where will Armenia go from here?

Politics The Week Ahead

The Week Ahead: 22-29 April 2018

Legislative elections in Gabon provide an opportunity to register discontent with the Bongo Regime. Faroe Islands Constitutional referendum could reshape relations with Denmark and EU. Brexit faces further delays in implementation. All in the Week Ahead.

Economics Latin America

Ratings upgrade puts pressure on next government to maintain Brazil’s economic recovery

Amidst political chaos and uncertainty, Brazil’s economy continues on its path to recovery receiving a vote of confidence by ratings agency Moody’s. There is hope Brazil will be able to continue the necessary economic reforms once a new President takes office next year.

Latin America Politics

Colombia presidential elections: the rise of right-wing candidate Iván Duque

Colombian presidential elections will be held on 27 May. Among its candidates, a new-born star is rising with the right-wing candidate Iván Duque, a strong opponent to the peace agreement.