Economics
The Next Big Player in the Global Economy Is Christian Lindner
Three Germans are running to replace Angela Merkel—but it's someone else who might end up with the most influence.
Separate the Iran Deal From Regional Security Negotiations
U.S. allies have already taken the initiative on regional issues. Insisting on a package deal could permanently derail nuclear talks.
Europe Is Fighting Over Its Fiscal Future
France and Italy want to fend off the frugals and make COVID-19-era budget flexibility a feature, not a bug.
China Wants to Join the Trade Pact Once Designed to Counter It
Beijing filed its formal application to join the CPTPP.
El Salvador’s Bitcoin Law Is a Farce
The system doesn’t work, the currency crashed, and the public hates it.
China’s Social Credit System Is Actually Quite Boring
A supposedly Orwellian system is fragmented, localized, and mostly targeted at businesses.
Portugal’s Sardine Capitalism Is a Model for the World
Lisbon’s macroeconomic model could show other small countries the path to recovery.
U.S. Congress Weighs Sanctions on Myanmar’s Oil and Gas
The legislation could also force a ruling on whether the military junta committed genocide against the Rohingya.
Poor People Weren’t Part of the Plan for Abuja
In Nigeria’s carefully designed capital, urban enforcers harass ordinary citizens.
Afghanistan’s Money Exchangers Are the Economy’s Last Best Hope
As many banks are forced to close, an informal network of money exchangers provides an indispensable service.
U.N. Return to Afghanistan: ‘This Is Completely Insane’
A month ago, the United Nations was pulling its staff out of Afghanistan. Now, it’s headed back in to avert a major humanitarian crisis.
Afghanistan Was a Ponzi Scheme Sold to the American Public
When a scam falls apart, it collapses fast.
Biden’s Conundrum: How to Pressure the Taliban Without Hurting Afghans
After 20 years of building up Afghanistan, can the United States really cut the country off now?
What Diversity Means for the Taliban
The new Afghan government will likely include ethnicities other than the Taliban’s own. But women are probably out of luck.
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