How Does Globalization Affect Small Businesses and Local Industries?
The word “business” encompasses a stunningly diverse span of entities. On one end of the spectrum are the continent-straddling multinational enterprises moving raw commodities, semiconductor chips, or physical goods that power the modern world. Their names are globally known and recognized. On the other end of the spectrum are the classic ‘Mom and Pop’ shops, […]
What Role Do Fiscal Policies Play in Reducing Income Inequality and Supporting Social Welfare Programs?
Imagine a perfect set of fiscal levers. When pulled, each would produce a desired effect directly related to its use. The economic stimulus would reliably lead to economic growth. Targeted job creation initiatives would lead to increased employment. Lower borrowing costs would create a corresponding and predictable increase in private sector investment in productive capacity. […]
The Future of Retirement: Navigating an Aging Population and Declining Birth Rates
Some assumptions are so core to our worldview that they never need to be explicitly stated. To say it out loud can seem strange. Here’s one example: “Populations grow.” But what if that ceases to be true? What if the centuries-long trend of population growth is stalling? Or, in some nations, even reversing? This simple […]
How do Trade Wars and Protectionist Policies Influence the Global Economy?
In the decades after World War II, there was an accepted international consensus regarding cross-border trade: it was desirable. It wasn’t without contention, particularly regarding agricultural products, but the trend was clear. The governments of most nations, in partnership with institutions like the World Trade Organization (WTO), collectively strove to lower trade barriers and increase […]
How Does Globalization Affect Income Inequality within and Between Countries?
The rise of globalization brought many questions and, at times, even protests. More recently, that noise has faded. The increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and populations has become a defining feature of contemporary society. But questions are being asked again. Globalization has once again emerged as a lightning rod for criticism. This has been particularly […]
What are the Differences Between Fiscal and Monetary Policies in Managing Economic Growth?
Economic statistics matter. They are the metric by which we measure our progress as a society. If that seems a stretch, consider the following. Economic growth might seem like an abstract concept sometimes. However, it is a vital indicator of a nation’s prosperity and stability. It tells us about the increase in the production of […]