Business
How grain has gone from famine to feast
Grain prices have plummeted to a five-year low, signaling a shift from scarcity to abundance. This drop marks a significant transition from past famine conditions to a current state of plentiful supply.
Meet Donald Trump’s aid agency
No, it is not a sovereign wealth fund. The proposal suggests using Trump’s private business assets to fund government operations, distinct from state-owned investment vehicles.
Why American bondholders are jumpy about inflation
U.S. bond investors fear inflation as the Fed prepares to cut rates. This move occurs amidst a complex economic landscape, creating anxiety among holders worried about rising prices eroding returns.
Europe’s economy at last shows signs of a recovery
Europe’s economy finally shows recovery signs, though numerous threats remain that could still derail the trend.
Chinese trade is thriving despite America’s attacks
Global partners embrace Chinese trade despite US pressure, accepting terms some view as unfair.
What if the AI stockmarket blows up?
The potential cost of an AI stock market crash has escalated to a deeply concerning level, signaling severe financial risks.
What if artificial intelligence is just a “normal” technology?
AI’s emergence may mirror past technological shifts, suggesting it will eventually become a "normal" technology rather than a disruptive anomaly.
Bond vigilantes take aim at France
Market watchdogs target France, hoping this confrontation forces political leaders to pay attention.
The hard right’s plans for Europe’s economy
Despite a softened stance, the hard right lacks a credible blueprint for growth-enhancing economic reforms in Europe.
Why supply shocks are a trap for commodity investors
Supply shocks often trap commodity investors by creating temporary price spikes that mask long-term oversupply. This "lithium illusion" highlights the risks of chasing short-term volatility without considering fundamental demand shifts.
China turns crypto-curious
China’s crypto curiosity masks a deeper skepticism about stablecoins. Leadership likely opposes their widespread adoption despite current interest.
America is escaping its office crisis
The US is escaping its commercial real estate slump, as pandemic distress and high borrowing costs appear to have passed.
The threat of deflation stalks Asia’s economies
Asia faces deflation risks driven by China’s slowdown, falling commodity prices, and weak regional growth.
Trump’s interest-rate crusade will be self-defeating
Trump’s push to lower rates undermines central bank credibility, making his strategy self-defeating. Research shows trust in institutions is vital for economic stability.
Gambling or investing? In America, the line is increasingly blurred
A sports-betting company and futures exchange now operate a prediction market for stock performance, blurring the line between gambling and investing in America.
How Trump’s war on the Federal Reserve could do serious damage
Trump’s attacks on the Federal Reserve risk severe economic damage, particularly if inflation rises. Undermining the central bank’s independence could destabilize financial markets and worsen economic conditions.
Assessing the case against Lisa Cook
The case against Lisa Cook relies on tenuous connections to defunct entities, lacking compelling proof of wrongdoing. Even if true, the allegations would likely result in minor sanctions rather than severe consequences.
Why you should buy your employer’s shares
The article argues for buying employer stock, despite contradicting standard financial advice.
The Economist’s finance and economics internship
The Economist seeks candidates for the Marjorie Deane finance and economics internship.
Even as China’s economy suffers, stocks soar. What’s going on?
China’s stock market rallies despite economic struggles, driven by government stimulus and investor speculation rather than fundamental growth.