#economic-policy

#economic-policy

Ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global markets and oil prices, adding a persistent layer of uncertainty for UK firms. This geopolitical instability is driving higher cost pressures and intensifying concerns around supply chains and energy security, all of which are critical factors in strategic business decision making.

"Donald Trump's idiotic war with Iran cheered on by Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage is making it far more expensive for people to get around. Families are paying more at the pump because of a war they didn't start and don't support."

The orthodoxy across much of the world has been that only markets should decide what things cost, as argued by influential economists like Friedrich Hayek.

"Under President Trump's leadership, we are on a path toward unprecedented economic growth, lasting dollar dominance, and fiscal strength and stability," Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement announcing the decision.

The Malaysian government plans to slash the number of foreign workers to encourage local hiring and raise incomes, with significant changes to visa regulations coming in June.

"The historical evidence reveals a striking pattern: government bonds have repeatedly generated substantial real losses during these extreme episodes. They have even underperformed equities and real estates which are traditionally regarded as risky assets."

Caleb Moss's workday starts early on Tuesdays and Thursdays, before the sun comes up. At 4:30 a.m., he reports to his post in tool and die at Virco Manufacturing. Under the guidance of a mentor, he turns steel into high-precision tools and molds used throughout the plant. At 9:00 a.m., Moss leaves the plant and heads to Pulaski Technical College in North Little Rock, Ark., for a full day of instruction, beginning with math class and moving on to hands-on training on machines similar to those Moss uses on the job.

And some of the jobs we're creating and protecting are right here at Verst Logistics. So, let me call up your outstanding CEO, Paul, come on up, real fast, Paul. Come on. Paul Verst. Come on up here, Paul. Let's go. Do it fast, Paul! They don't wanna to hear from you.

A friend remarked to me over the weekend about the apocalyptic scenes of fire raging in Tehran. The strike on an oil depot has sent plumes of smoke across Iran's capital. An environmental catastrophe is unfolding, with reports of rain turning black and increasing respiratory problems.