Over the past six years, COVID, two wars and Donald Trump’s tariffs have shaken world trade. With globalization already stalling, is this a temporary shock or the start of a great reversal?
Trucks, farms and industry are powered with diesel. Now prices are soaring due to refinery disruptions, supply shortages and geopolitical tensions. A potential US export ban could make Europe’s diesel crunch even worse.
Beijing is locking the gates to stop expertise and capital in strategic industries from fleeing. The country accused of industrial-scale intellectual property theft now fears the West will take its own.
Germany’s gas storage sites are far less full than in recent years. Officials say supplies are secure, but analysts warn that a cold winter or import disruptions could push prices higher. So how secure is the supply?
German carmakers want employees to work 40 hours instead of the current 35 without extra pay, arguing it would improve competitiveness. Unions strongly oppose the proposal and view it as an attack on workers’ rights.
The rapid shift to electric vehicles in Germany is cutting fuel tax revenue for the government. As EV sales surge, policymakers face growing pressure to find new ways to fund roads and transportation infrastructure.
Two decades of progress toward gender parity is at risk as women’s political representation declines, according to a new World Economic Forum report. At the current pace, the remaining gap could take 120 years to close.
US debt has topped $40 trillion. How risky is the growing debt burden, and will investors keep funding Washington’s deficits?
Could artificial intelligence pose an existential threat to humanity? Some leading researchers are warning against an unregulated race toward AI superintelligence.
Iran is shifting trade toward northern ports and land routes as its southern shipping faces a US blockade. Analysts say the corridors can keep essential goods moving, but cannot replace maritime trade.