Yearly Archives: 2023

Links 11/17/2023

Oh, the Irony: IMF Chief Touts Benefits of Cashless Future In Singapore, Just Weeks After a Major Payments Outage

“This is not the time to turn back on central bank digital currencies,” Kirstalina Georgieva said. At the same time, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is advising the public to “carry some cash” as a contingency for further outages.

Has the Energy Transition Hit a Wall?

The much-touted green transition is flagging due to rising materials costs.

2:00PM Water Cooler 11/16/2023

~ Today’s Water Cooler ~

Quelle Surprise! Fast Fashion Exploits Poor Workers; Industry Engages in Empty Virtue-Signalling

Don’t believe the fashion industry’s stated commitment to support a living wage for Bangladesh’s garment workers.

Links 11/16/2023

Biden Administration’s Limit on Drug Industry Middlemen Backfires, Pharmacists Say

“Biden Administration initiative backfires” is almost a default title. But here, the consequences for pharmacies and patients are significant

Risks of Fracking Are “Real and Growing,” Report Warns

More evidence that fracking is not good for humans and other living things.

Why Protectionists Sometimes Win: The Narrative Power of Economic Nationalism

An economist admits nationalists and protectionists can have clout, but does not go far in conceding that they can also have valid issues.

2:00PM Water Cooler 11/15/2023

~ Today’s Water Cooler ~

Moshe Dayan: ‘What Cause Have We to Complain About Their Hatred of Us?’

Dayan described how ethnic cleansing of Palestinians was an inherent element of Israel’s plans. But that may be hitting its limits. What now?

Links 11/15/2023

Qatar’s Careful Balancing Act In Energy And Geopolitics

Simon Watkins contends that the Biden Administration regards Qatar as an ally, despite its sponsorship of Hamas.