Author Archives: Yves Smith

Economists Wake Up to West’s Trade and Technology Dependence on China

Useful data on and discussion of China’s dominance of inputs and technologies essential to the West.

Wall Street Journal Describes How AI Will Eat McKinsey’s Lunch

What a large series of scandals could not do to McKinsey might finally be accomplished by AI: cut the firm down to size.

Former Ambassador M. K. Bhadrakumar Throws Cold Water on the Idea That India Is Keen About BRICS

Bhadrakumar explains why India does not think all that highly of BRICS.

Links 8/2/2025

Michael Hudson: From Babylon to Wall Street – How Bankers Make You Poor

A wide-ranging historical discussion with Michael Hudson, tracing the destructive rise the power of lenders from ancient times to today.

The Hidden Ways Heat Threatens Pets, Children, and Older Adults

Heat risks are rising along with global temperatures. Some warning signs in vulnerable groups, including those who take certain medications

As Tariffs Bite and Jobs Stall, New Interactive Tool Tracks How Much Trump and GOP Are Raising the Cost of Living

As Trump’s new tariffs are about to squeeze American wallets even harder, a new tool helps keep track of the damage.

Chronically Ill? In RFK Jr.’s View, It Might Be Your Own Fault

RFK, Jr.’s policy views confirm that he hates the poors.

Trump Is Hellbent on Derailing India’s Rise as a Great Power

Is there some logic to Trump’s 25% tariff threat against India, or is this just more pique over his limited influence?

Unexpected China Factory Contraction Confirms Deflationary Headwinds, Overcapacity

China’s leaders admit to widespread overcapacity, such as in EVs and solar panels. Faillure to solve it could generate Japan-style deflation

Consumers Are Footing the Bill for AI’s Insatiable Appetite for Energy

The energy cost of AI is probaby vastly higher than you realized, and will be showing up soon in your power bills.

Long-COVID, Viruses and ‘Zombie’ Cells: New Research Looks for Links to Chronic Fatigue and Brain Fog

A theory of what might cause the many symptoms of Long Covid, which if proven further, should help in developing treatments

South America’s Sovereignty Is Being Lost in Big Tech’s Clouds

How South America and the Global South generally are selling out their automony and the promise of multipolarity for Big Tech convenience

Links 7/30/2025