Fearless commentary on finance, economics, politics and power

The scientific, health, and political debate over the true cost of ultra–processed has just gone mainstream….which is late.

Much higher interest rates – due to Western central banks – damage developing nations via prolonged debt distress and stagnation.

On the history of the Alevi sect in Turkiye, particularly its political and social standing.

~ Today’s Water Cooler: Besides Covid and Political coverage, Boeing, spooks and gaming, TikTok, and the Water Cooler fundraiser ~

Some ruminations on the role of the CIA, particularly its relationship to Presidents.

“We feel compelled to conclude that the MHRA has indeed become an enabler for the pharmaceutical industry, with patient safety no longer being its primary concern.”

A careful reading of a sighting in what may be a new campaign to shore up Western hopes in the light of Russia’s military outproduction.

Looking at how Trump current rhetoric contrasts with his past actions, and why those actions are likely a better predictor.

~ Today’s Water Cooler ~

Tax havens not only facilitate tax evasion and corruption in ‘normal times’, they also harbour funds during economic crises, slowing down recovery.

Foreign Affiars recycles a 75-year-old strategy from George Kennan that no longer fits the geopolitical realities of the world in 2024.

High interest rates for Israeli bond offerings, plus mumble-shuffle by manager Goldman and the SEC, confirm investor doubts about its prospects

Michael Hudson in a bracing talk, including history of crises, the role of debt, and how ancient Greek and Roman law promoted inequality