China: Beggar-thy-Neighbor Policy Creates Risks

30 January 2026 Even if one doesn't trust China's data, there's no doubt the economy has proved surprisingly resilient, despite the Trump 2.0 tariffs. And, the outcome of recent Sino-US trade negotiations indicate they enjoy considerable leverage in future talks, given America's current dependence on Chinese rare earth materials. As the Year of the Horse … Continue reading China: Beggar-thy-Neighbor Policy Creates Risks

Strategy 2026: Smooth Sailing?

18 January 2026 I have returned recently from a lovely Christmas holiday in the USA. Indeed, I'm happy to report that despite America's political turmoil and divisiveness, families can still celebrate together (with minor exceptions)!! Regarding the US financial market outlook, I was struck by the universal sense of optimism. The consensus is the bull … Continue reading Strategy 2026: Smooth Sailing?

COP 30: The Planet Doesn’t Do Politics

23 November 2025 The COP 30 summit in Belem Brasil now has concluded. Let's face it, progress on climate change has lost momentum. Not only has Potus 47 ditched America's Net Zero commitment, but leaders from key polluting nations China, India, Russia, and the USA did not attend the conference. In line with the 2015 … Continue reading COP 30: The Planet Doesn’t Do Politics

Emerging Markets: Coping with Trump 2.0

2 November 2025 Potus 47 now has returned from his Asian visit: unsurprisingly using superlatives to describe the trade agreements reached with Japan, Korea, and China. Upon taking office, Mr. Trump pledged to impose high tariffs against countries with large bilateral trade imbalances, espcially those conducting "unfair" trade practices with the USA. Potus 47 now … Continue reading Emerging Markets: Coping with Trump 2.0