The global economy thrives on globalization and the increasing interdependence of finance, production, consumption and trade. Such integration has reduced poverty, yet varying national policies along with ever-increasing speed of transactions and market news have also contributed to imbalances, both among nations and within. Regulations often do not keep pace in managing cross-border debt, foreign direct investment, corporate practices, tax codes or economic bubbles. The eurozone crisis and the US subprime mortgage crisis have demonstrated that one nation’s problems and panic can spread like wildfire. Nations must combine a competitive spirit with cooperation to achieve stable economic growth and sustainable prosperity.

Beyond Oil: Reappraising the Gulf States

Oil-rich nations must prepare now for the day when natural resources run dry
Kito de Boer
January 31, 2007

China’s Poison for the Planet

China’s cheap consumer goods and economic boom come with heavy health and environmental costs
Andreas Lorenz
February 2, 2007

Climate Panel Issues Urgent Warning to Curb Gases

An overheated planet requires that humans take immediate action
Elisabeth Rosenthal
February 2, 2007

Everybody Wants One Now

Television news channels, many subsidized by governments, seek the right equation for English-language broadcasts
December 12, 2006

“Fair Trade” Lifts the Wrong Boats

Protectionism is a dangerous double-edged sword that only toughens the competition
Rick Newman
December 12, 2006