22 July 2018 President Trump has taken aim at Europe. In reality, however, most of his ire has been directed at Germany. The President objects to America's $66bn bilateral trade deficit (the fourth largest amongst US trading partners), as well as Germany's failure to meet its NATO spending commitment. During his recent European trip, he … Continue reading Germany: It’s Time to Act Boldly!
24 June 2018 Even in comparison with the recent deterioration in diplomatic norms, the breakdown of the recent Group of 7 meeting was breath-taking. The long-planned gathering, cut short by US President Trump's early departure for his hastily planned Singapore summit with North Korea, began with Donald Trump's advocacy to include Russia in future occasions. … Continue reading USA and European Union: With Friends Like These…..
18 May 2018 Despite frenetic diplomatic efforts, including the evident bonhomie between Presidents Macron and Trump, the United States has withdrawn from the Iran Nuclear Deal (JCPOA). The world awaits details of America's new approach to confronting Iran's nuclear ambitions and its aggressive regional political behaviour. The Trump Administration has announced already its intention to … Continue reading Iran Sanctions: JCPOA RIP?
13 February 2018 In my 2018 Investment Strategy blog entitled "Aging Rally or More to Play For?", I indicated that while the US (and global) equity market rally was aging in calendar terms, the factors traditionally signalling the end of the cycle were not yet evident. Nevertheless, I suggested that the US market would experience … Continue reading S&P 500: Tipping Point?