Is China's Central Bank Gold-Buying Spree a Precursor for War? Part II of II
The idea of a nation acquiring large gold reserves in preparation for military endeavors is not without historical precedent. Prior to World War I, European powers increased their gold reserves, and a century later, Russia's central bank doubled its gold holdings in the years before its invasion of Ukraine. This same strategic stockpiling of gold could be inferred from China and its pre-war positioning for a Taiwan incursion.
May 06, 2024 04:17 PM EDT
Is China's Central Bank Gold-Buying Spree A Precursor for War? Part I of II
Since 2009, China has more than doubled its gold reserves. In wartime, particularly in wars perpetrated in violation of international law, the resulting international sanctions can force an invader state to rely on its gold reserves. Thus if a country is preparing to go to war and incur sanctions, it will ensure it has an ample reserve of gold.
Costco's Gold Bars Part II: From Africa to the Alps to You
So where exactly does that shiny new "999.9 fine gold minted" bar from Costco come from? Under that "Essayeur Fondeur" Swiss authenticity stamp lies a long, bloody trail of death and tears.
A Modern Neo-Feudal State, The Tech Lords Ushering in a Return to the Medieval
If ever such tech lords decide that their will should supplant that of the majority's, or that through their influence they might alter the course of history by sustaining one country's war of aggression on another or by manipulating the political landscape, democracy will be the casualty - in America and throughout the world.
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5 key economic trends to watch in 2016
Economists and analysts foresee the five key factors that would influence the global economy significantly in 2016. The major aspects such as industrial production, consumer spending, international trade, currency trends and inflation will influence the global economy. The lower energy costs will propel consumer spending upwards, while resulting in inflation rise.
Jan 04, 2016 10:21 PM EST
‘Latte Macchiato’: ‘Starbucks’ Hits New Caffeine Beverage
Latte Macchiato, combination of espresso and milk, is going to be served by Starbucks, the Seattle based Café Chain. The popular Australian drink is being introduced to the Americans by Angus Maxwell, certified barista serving the coffee chain. The new beverage joins the Starbucks menu and is believed to be a stepping stone between a cappuccino or flat white and an Americano among those desiring to change the taste bud.
Jan 04, 2016 10:55 PM EST
Philippine Follows Vietnam in Protesting China’s Proclamation Over Spratly Islands
After Vietnam, Philippines, a close US ally, has described China’s efforts as acts against its sovereignty. All the three neighboring countries contend for the ownership of the probably oil/ gas enriched Spratly Islands. Not only the hidden mineral resources but also the geographic location of the islands, has led the neighboring countries to dominate one of the busiest naval routes.
Jan 04, 2016 10:23 PM EST
Oil Price is Slightly Rising Amidst Tension Between Saudi and Iran
Oil price is rising amidst tension between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The oil price started the first day of trading in 2016 at the price of $38 a barrel before reduced to $37 in the afternoon trading.
Jan 04, 2016 10:21 PM EST
Researchers in Taiwan Fly a Drone Using Body Movement
Researcher in Taiwan invented a way to fly a drone using body movement. It utilized the motion sensor in AppleWatch to control and pilot a drone.
Jan 04, 2016 04:39 AM EST
Sydney home prices drop for the second month
Sydney home prices fell for the second-consecutive month. The market also recorded its worst quarter in four years as a regulatory crackdown pushed up mortgage rates causing weak demand in the housing sector.
Jan 04, 2016 06:09 AM EST
2016 Will Be Grim for Asian Ship Builders Due to Low Oil Price
Asian ship building industries will face a bleak year in 2016 due to low oil price. As a result, shipyards receive less orders for offshore rigs project. Korean, Singaporean, Chinese and Japanese as the main shipyard owners in Asia are preparing necessary measures to manage the crisis.
Jan 04, 2016 05:32 AM EST
Artificially Intelligent Jarvis: Zuckerberg’s Paternity Inflicted Goal for 2016
Mark Zuckerberg, the Facebook founder is also familiar for revealing his annual goal and eventual consecutive relevant successes. Getting inspired with the digital butler Jarvis, featured in Iron Man’, he plans to build a robot with artificial intelligence to assist in household works. Birth of a baby daughter and insecurity obsessions there to, may have possibly led him to adopt the goal.
Jan 04, 2016 04:06 AM EST
Yen Goes Strong As Saudi and Iran Heated Tension Started The Year 2016
Yen started 2016 with a two-month high in trading, while Saudi and Iran cuts diplomatic ties.
Jan 04, 2016 04:44 AM EST
Larger McDonald's Closes, 'The Ever Largest Era' Awaits
McDonald’s Florida chapter has shut down operations of the foods and entertainment chain on Wednesday. But closure has not turned an end to larger McDonald’s era, but appears to reborn with ‘the ever largest’ title. The largest burger corner is all set to start journey from early February in its renovated state of the art establishment measuring 19,000 square feet, some 7,000 square feet larger than the existing ‘French Fries Box’ structure.
Jan 02, 2016 07:48 PM EST
Now, Chinese couples can have two kids legally
Ending the one-child regime, the Chinese government has decided to allow married couples to have two children. The new law is effective from 1 January 2016 and China will have three million extra babies every year for next five years owing to new law. It'll take the labor force up by 30 million by 2050.
Jan 01, 2016 08:39 PM EST
South Korean exports drop for 12 months
The world's sixth largest exporter South Korea suffered drop in exports throughout 2015. The exports fell 13.8 percent in December 2015 against the forecast of 11.7 percent. South Korea's trade surplus eased down to $7.2 billion in December 2015 from $10.32 billion from the previous month.
Jan 01, 2016 08:37 PM EST