Economy
China’s Belt and Road Runs Aground in the Philippines
Lacking the mega-projects seen in mainland Southeast Asia, Beijing’s infrastructure plans in the Philippines have been noticeably smaller in scale and focused more on local connectivity.
Stakes High as Emerging Markets Await Fed Taper Plans
Capital flight, inflation, and debt shocks are the risks facing emerging markets as the Federal Reserve plots a course out of monetary stimulus.
Sudan: Post-Revolution Political Order under Strain
An apparent coup attempt illustrates ongoing challenges faced by the civilian-military transitional order in realizing the promise of Sudan’s 2019 revolution.
Is the Post-COVID Party Over for Iron Ore Prices?
Iron ore prices are now down approximately 57% from their May highs, with the sell-off accelerating heading out of the weekend. At one point on Monday, prices had shed another 11.5% in Singapore trading…
Afghanistan’s Fate Will Be Shaped by Geoeconomics
Three geoeconomic factors will determine the future of Taliban-controlled Afghanistan: opium, natural resources, and regional trade networks.
Global Forecast (9-20-2021)
France withdraws ambassadors over AUKUS, Canada heads to the polls, and the Federal Reserve prepares to show its hand on bond tapering.
Timeline: The Downward Spiral of China-Australia Relations
Chronicling the events that led to the present low point in China-Australia relations.
Europe’s Energy Crisis Goes from Bad to Worse
Record-high natural gas prices have European consumers hoping for a mild winter.
Evergrande: China’s Property Goliath Teeters on the Brink
What does too-big-to-fail with Chinese characteristics look like? Evergrande could be just that.
Global Forecast (9-13-2021)
Russian elections, a US angle on the Guinean coup, and a financial crisis in Sri Lanka.