I am a social media expert who has worked for Voice Of America. I managed the outreach and engagement for Africa 54 and Straight Talk Africa. In addition, I helped plan and set up the social media outlets for a new show called "Our Voices"

The Surprising New Player in Crypto Regulation Revealed

27 Nov 2024  |  Bitcoin Perfect  |  English  |  U.S. Government Policy

The U.S. government is considering a shift in cryptocurrency regulation, potentially elevating the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) as the primary authority over digital assets, moving away from the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) enforcement-driven approach. This change aims to provide a more structured regulatory framework, fostering innovation while ensuring protection against fraud. The global perspective on crypto regulation varies, with the European Union working on harmonized rules and China maintaining a restrictive stance. The evolving regulatory landscape presents both opportunities and challenges, impacting individuals and institutions differently, and sparking debates on the balance between security and innovation.

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Global Financial Systems U.S. Government Policy Cryptocurrency Regulation

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Mario Andree is a journalist based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Shares crash to 3-week low

15 Jan 2024  |  ceylontoday.lk  |  English  |  Financial Crisis

Credit to the Government of Sri Lanka and public corporations has overshadowed private sector credit for the seventh consecutive month as of February 2022, a trend last seen in 1989. Central Bank of Sri Lanka data shows that credit to the government and public corporations was Rs 7,331 billion, compared to Rs 7,051 billion for the private sector. This trend has been consistent since August 2021. Historical parallels are drawn to the period from January to October 1989, marked by significant political events including the election of President Ranasinghe Premadasa and conflicts involving the IPKF, LTTE, and JVP.

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Economic Policy Financial Crisis

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Jose Bautista is a journalist based in Brisbane City, Australia. He has worked as journalist and foreign correspondent for Spanish news agency EFE, Agence France Presse (AFP), Chinese news agency Xinhua, Spanish news agency Europa Press (EP) and Deutsche Presse Agentur (DPA) in Colombia, Venezuela ...

Acapulco: The Trusts and the Government in the Face of Tragedy

06 Nov 2023  |  elheraldodesaltillo.mx  |  Spanish  |  Government Policy

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador proposed reallocating 15 billion pesos from the Judicial Branch's trusts to aid those affected by Hurricane Otis in Guerrero. The proposal includes forming a committee to oversee fund distribution. Minister Norma Piña responded positively, awaiting institutional channels to formalize the agreement. The Chamber of Deputies is also working on a committee to monitor fund allocation. However, a provisional suspension by Judge Juan Fernando Luevano has delayed the fund transfer. López Obrador assured that resources are available to support the victims regardless of the trust funds' status.

Tags:

Financial Aid Government Policy Natural Disasters

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Center-Left

Political View

Soumik Dutta is a journalist based in Bengaluru, India.

The Sikkim Disaster: A Tale of Corruption and Neglect in India's Power Sector

10 Dec 2023  |  EastMojo  |  English  |  Hydropower Policy Violations

The article discusses the aftermath of a disaster in Sikkim, India, and the decades of planning and violations that led to it. It highlights the Sikkim government's hydropower policy and the memorandum of understanding with Teesta Urja Limited, which set a precedent for agreements with other independent power producers. The article reveals various violations, including unauthorized share dilutions and the government's failure to receive its share of equity. It also details the influx of foreign direct investment from tax havens into private companies in Sikkim's power sector. The article names several companies and investors involved in these transactions, including Athena Projects Private Limited, Asian GencoPvt Ltd, and Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners. It also mentions the involvement of politicians and bureaucrats in these irregularities and the lack of action despite the Comptroller and Auditor General's reports highlighting illegalities. The article concludes by reflecting on the disaster's impact and the state's missed opportunities for revenue and power generation due to corruption.

Tags:

Financial Irregularities Hydropower Policy Violations Government Corruption Environmental Impact Infrastructure Development

Umar Farooq is a multimedia journalist based in Peshawar, Pakistan. He has extensive experience working in conflict zones. He has expertise in reporting on Pakistan-Afghan-US affairs and militancy۔

Taming Runaway Electricity Prices In Pakistan

21 Apr 2024  |  The Friday Times  |  English  |  Financial Crisis

The government plans to raise electricity rates by Rs2.94 per unit to avoid financial default, but this move is criticized for lacking long-term solutions. High electricity rates are affecting household affordability and industrial competitiveness. The power sector's inefficiencies have led to significant financial losses and circular debt. The article suggests that the government should address supply-side inefficiencies and secure revenue bases while pausing aggressive Net Metering promotions. Comprehensive reforms in the power sector are deemed necessary for long-term stability.

Tags:

Government Policy Financial Crisis Electricity Prices

Interpretive

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Center-Left

Political View

Tais Gadea Lara is an independent environmental journalist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She writes about sustainability (economic, environmental and social aspects), climate change, and the role of women in social change.

From Rio to Baku: Financing as a Central Discussion for Climate Action

19 Nov 2024  |  infoamazonia.org  |  Portuguese  |  Financial Policy

The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro concluded with a declaration emphasizing climate action, financial reform, and addressing inequality. The declaration's impact resonated at COP29 in Baku, where discussions focused on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) for climate financing. The G20, responsible for 75% of global emissions, committed to supporting developing countries through financial reforms. Key issues include the scale of financial mobilization and the sources of funding, with debates on whether developed countries should bear the primary responsibility. The conference highlighted the need for substantial financial commitments to prevent catastrophic climate outcomes, with the COP29 negotiations expected to extend as countries seek consensus.

Tags:

Financial Policy Climate Change International Relations

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Center-Left

Political View

Alberto Grisoni is a journalist based in Milan, Italy. He's been editor in chief at the technology and banking magazine AziendaBanca since 2013.

He mainly covers banking, finance, technology, travel and any topic related to digital transformation in business and society.

Bitcoin withholding at 42%? The Italian crypto sector in alarm

16 Oct 2024  |  www.aziendabanca.it  |  Italian  |  Italian Financial Policy

The Italian government is considering increasing the tax on Bitcoin capital gains from 26% to 42% starting in 2025, causing alarm in the Italian crypto industry. Critics, including ItaliaFintech and industry leaders, argue that the tax could drive capital and talent abroad, stifling innovation and growth in the sector. The proposed tax is seen as one of the highest in Europe, potentially leading to market distortions and capital flight. Concerns are raised about the impact on small investors and the broader financial ecosystem, with some fearing it could deter foreign investment.

Tags:

Italian Financial Policy Cryptocurrency Taxation

Interpretive

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Center-Left

Political View

Israr Khan is a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan. He has more than 17-year experience in reporting and writing with Pakistan’s leading English language newspapers and international media and has enough skills in development sector research.
Currently, Mr. Khan is working as an Economic and ...

Rs301bn over four months takes circular debt to Rs2.61tr

31 Oct 2023  |  www.thenews.com.pk  |  English  |  Financial Crisis

The circular debt in Pakistan's power sector has surged to Rs2.611 trillion by October 2023, driven by inefficiencies in power generation, distribution, and dues collection. Despite government measures like raising electricity prices under IMF pressure, the debt continues to grow, exacerbated by issues with K-Electric, subsidy disputes, and delayed tariff adjustments. The financial burden on consumers remains high, with significant losses and under-recoveries reported by distribution companies.

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Government Policy Financial Crisis Energy Sector

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I am a finance journalist and editor, with almost 4 years' experience across full-time and freelance roles, based in London, United Kingdom. I've written about equitiies, commodities, finance, investing and emerging markets extensively. 

Currently, I'm a business reporter at Euronews. I've ...

Markets' week ahead: Lagarde speech and OPEC+ meeting in focus

27 Nov 2023  |  www.euronews.com  |  English  |  Financial Markets

European stocks fell on Monday due to declining energy prices and sluggish industrial profits in China. The market is anticipating ECB President Christine Lagarde's speech for insights on monetary policy. Gold prices surged, driven by a weaker dollar and expectations of the US Federal Reserve ending its monetary tightening. Pharmaceuticals and steel stocks performed well, with Sanofi and ArcelorMittal seeing gains, while banking stocks like BNP Paribas and Société Générale declined. Key economic indicators to watch this week include consumer confidence indexes from Germany, France, Turkey, and Italy, as well as inflation and retail sales reports from Spain and Germany.

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Monetary Policy Financial Markets Energy Prices

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I’m Anh Le, I have more than 10 years experience in video production. Let me support you.
I am willing to participate in nonprofit projects for the community.

Financial Impacts of Foreign Digital Money

06 Dec 2023  |  www.imf.org  |  English  |  Financial Policy

A two-country New Keynesian model with endogenous currency substitution and financial frictions is developed to examine the impact of a stablecoin issued in a large foreign economy on a small developing economy. The introduction of the stablecoin amplifies currency substitution, reduces bank intermediation, weakens monetary policy transmission, worsens the impacts of recessionary shocks, and increases banking sector stress. Capital controls can inadvertently raise stablecoin adoption, increasing exposure to foreign shocks. Unlike a domestic CBDC, banning stablecoin payments can mitigate these negative effects.

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Financial Policy Economics Digital Currency

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Tim Leffel is a journalist and travel writer based in Tampa, FL, United States.

Mexican Residency Requirements Updates for 2025

10 Feb 2025  |  www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com  |  English  |  Immigration Policy

In 2025, Mexico's residency requirements have increased, with temporary residency requiring a monthly income of at least $4,185 or savings of $69,750. The requirements are tied to the Mexican minimum wage and fluctuate with exchange rates. Permanent residency demands higher income or savings, with options to bypass temporary residency for those meeting specific criteria. The article highlights the challenges of meeting these financial thresholds, especially for retirees, and suggests strategies for qualifying. It also discusses the alternative of using a tourist visa for extended stays, noting the inconsistencies in enforcement during the pandemic but a return to normalcy by 2022.

Tags:

Financial Requirements Immigration Policy Mexican Residency

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Multimedia journalist based in Erbil covering Iraq and Syria.

Turkey reports account surplus amid fiscal policy changes

01 Nov 2023  |  Al-Monitor: Independent, trusted coverage of the Middle East  |  English  |  Economic Policy

Turkey's current account recorded a $1.9 billion surplus in September, surpassing the median forecast of $1.4 billion. This development, reported by Bloomberg and based on data from the Turkish Central Bank, suggests that Ankara's return to economic orthodoxy is yielding positive results. The August deficit was revised to $357 million, down from $619 million, indicating a significant improvement from the $5.5 billion deficit in July.

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Financial Markets Economic Policy

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Maya Misikir is a freelance journalist based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She has experience working for print as well as broadcast, radio and TV. She mostly covers current affairs for VOA but also writes in-depth analysis for other publications.

Ethiopia’s attempt to broaden tax base through VAT law faces pushback

04 Jul 2024  |  The Africa Report.com  |  English  |  Financial Services

Ethiopia's new VAT law, effective from July 2024, faces criticism for its lack of clarity and potential negative impact on the insurance sector, which was previously exempt. The law imposes a 15% VAT on general insurance plans, affecting over 90% of policies, and raises concerns about industry growth and legal liabilities. Experts argue that the law does not adequately capture the value-added element in insurance transactions. The VAT extension to other sectors, like water, electricity, and cotton, could disrupt supply chains and increase costs, prompting calls for clarity and uniformity in its application.

Tags:

Economic Policy Financial Services Taxation

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Ibrahim NTOUTOUM’OBIANG-ENDAMA is a journalist based in Libreville, Gabon.
I am an Image Reporter Journalist and freelancer. I make several trips to other provinces of the country, in order to produce video, paper and audio reports.

CEMAC: sustainably protecting the community against exogenous shocks

17 Dec 2024  |  AGP Gabon  |  French  |  Economic Policy

The extraordinary session of the CEMAC Heads of State Conference in Yaoundé focused on reinforcing community solidarity against external shocks to maintain financial sector viability and strengthen CEMAC's external position. Leaders committed to fully implementing foreign exchange regulations, including the repatriation of currencies by economic operators and signing escrow account agreements for site restoration funds by extractive companies by April 2025. The conference sought support from the IMF, World Bank, and other central bank partners in repatriating and domiciling oil revenues. Collective efforts are needed to improve the sub-region's macroeconomic framework, accelerate economic diversification, and consolidate public finances amid declining foreign exchange reserves and unfavorable commodity and trade outlooks.

Tags:

Financial Stability Economic Policy Regional Cooperation

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Felix Onuah is a journalist based in Abuja, Nigeria.

Nigeria unveils revamped economic management structure amid rising hardship

27 Mar 2024  |  Y100 WNCY | Your Home For Country & Fun | Green Bay, WI  |  English  |  Financial Hardship

President Bola Tinubu announced a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s economic governance to address financial hardship and enhance productivity. The new structure includes the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC) and the Economic Management Team Emergency Taskforce (EET), aimed at immediate and long-term economic challenges. The PECC, chaired by Tinubu, includes key cabinet ministers, the central bank governor, and prominent business leaders. The EET, led by Finance Minister Wale Edun, is tasked with developing a six-month emergency economic plan. Existing economic teams will be integrated into the new framework to ensure coordinated efforts.

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Government Policy Financial Hardship Economic Reform

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Jing Ren is a video journalist based in Los Angeles,United States of America. Good at storytelling,creating and shooting all kinds of topics that can go viral in news, and documentary films.

The Week Ahead – Santa Rally

23 Dec 2023  |  xyforex.com  |  English  |  Financial Markets

The euro is recovering on expectations that the Federal Reserve may ease monetary policy before the European Central Bank, with potential rate cuts by the Fed as early as March and the ECB possibly waiting until summer. The US dollar hit a five-month low against the Swiss franc as the Fed signals an end to aggressive tightening, while the Swiss National Bank may maintain higher rates longer. Brent crude faces pressure from a weak demand outlook and US sanctions on Russian oil, despite Middle East tensions. The S&P 500 reached a two-year high due to a 'Santa' rally, with speculation on the Federal Reserve's rate cuts and the US economy's performance. Orbex is mentioned as a platform for testing forex and CFD trading strategies.

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Monetary Policy Financial Markets Forex Trading

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While I was studying Atatürk University, Faculty of Communication, Department of Journalism, I did an internship at Bianet and BirGün Daily Newspaper (print). I have been working as a full-time reporter in BirGün Daily Newspaper (print) since 2016. My articles have been published in many magazines ...

Turkey is expected to be removed from the gray list

27 Jun 2024  |  www.dw.com  |  Turkish  |  Financial Regulation

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is expected to announce Turkey's removal from its gray list, which includes countries under increased monitoring for financial crimes. This follows Turkey's recent legislative reforms, including cryptocurrency regulations. Being on the gray list has negatively impacted Turkey's international financial relations and investment climate. While removal from the list is anticipated to have limited economic impact, it may be used for domestic political gains. The article highlights the importance of compliance with FATF standards and the potential political and economic implications for Turkey.

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Economic Policy Financial Regulation International Relations

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V K Sharma is a journalist based in Kolkata, India.He is an Editor of Johar Calcutta News,a Digital News Media run in West Bengal and other parts of India.He has done B Sc, M Sc, B Ed, D El.Ed ,PGDJMC.He is the Founder of Feed India Movement Association  and National Human Rights and Corruption ...

FIIs dump Dalal Street for Shanghai

07 Oct 2024  |  Financialexpress  |  English  |  Financial Markets

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) have shifted their focus from India's Dalal Street to China's stock markets, driven by China's recent monetary easing and regulatory adjustments. Despite India's robust economy, factors like declining PMI figures and lower GST collections have prompted this shift. China's markets have seen a significant rally, but challenges remain in boosting domestic consumption. Meanwhile, India is implementing measures to enhance market safety for small traders. The Nifty index has shown technical weakness, indicating potential volatility and bearish trends in the market.

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China's Economic Policy Financial Markets Foreign Investment

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Salman Siddiqui is an experienced journalist based in Berlin, Germany.

As an experienced English news/content editor, writer, and podcaster, he has over a decade of experience in the journalism industry. He lived and worked in various countries including Germany, Turkey, Cyprus, Qatar, Pakistan ...

SBP unveils fourth strategic plan

18 Nov 2023  |  tribune.com.pk  |  English  |  Economic Policy

The State Bank of Pakistan launched 'SBP Vision 2028', a strategic plan for 2023-28 focusing on financial stability and sustainable economic growth. It addresses challenges such as climate change, digital innovations, and cyber security threats. The plan sets six goals, including inflation control, financial system efficiency, inclusive financial services, Shariah-compliant banking, digital financial services ecosystem, and transforming SBP into a high-tech organization. It emphasizes strategic communication, climate change, innovation, diversity, and competitiveness. SBP Governor Jameel Ahmed highlighted price stability as a priority. The plan aims to increase bank account coverage to 75% of adults and leverage digital technology for financial inclusion. It also discusses the impact of political volatility on economic policies and the importance of consensus among political stakeholders.

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Financial Stability Economic Policy Banking

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Elliot Smith is a British multimedia journalist with eight years' domestic and international experience covering geopolitics, economics, business and sport, most recently working as a full-time Correspondent for CNBC in London.

Having recently relocated to Copenhagen, he will now be available to ...

Stock and bond markets will see a ‘year for non-consensus' in 2024, technical strategist says

02 Jan 2024  |  www.nbcconnecticut.com  |  English  |  Financial Markets

Ron William, market strategist and founder of RW Advisory, predicts a challenging year for stocks and a rise in the U.S. 10-year Treasury yield above 5% in 2024, which he calls a 'year for non-consensus.' Despite market expectations of multiple rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, William foresees a 'structural higher for longer trend with rolling waves of volatility.' He highlights the market's dependence on growth numbers and warns of fragility due to 'extreme overbought conditions' and speculative investment in lower quality stocks. Gold is expected to continue its strong performance amid geopolitical tensions, potentially breaking out above $2,700 per ounce by year-end.

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Federal Reserve Policy Financial Markets Economic Forecast

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Jeff Stein has covered the spy agencies, military affairs and foreign policy in Washington for nearly 40 years. From 2013 to 2019, he was Newsweek's national security correspondent and SpyTalk columnist. His SpyTalk column originated in 2005 at Congressional Quarterly, where in 2003 he was the ...

GOP plan to fund Israel aid with IRS cuts would cost $90 billion, tax chief says

01 Nov 2023  |  Washington Post  |  English  |  Financial Policy

House Republicans propose funding $14 billion in emergency aid to Israel by cutting the IRS budget, a move projected to increase the deficit by $90 billion over 10 years according to IRS chief Daniel Werfel. The GOP bill, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, aims to cut $14 billion from the IRS expansion funds approved under the Inflation Reduction Act. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the bill would add $12.5 billion to the deficit and result in $26.8 billion in lost tax revenue. The proposal faces criticism from within the GOP and is seen as a strategy to unify Republican support before negotiating with the Senate and White House.

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Financial Policy US Politics International Aid

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Center-Right

Political View

I'm a journalist based in Bogotá, Colombia with three years of experience in broadcast and investigative journalism. You can watch some of my TV pieces on these links: 

1. Regresaron a la zona de tragedia - ****

2. Fiscal de fiscales en aprietos por correos agresivos a columnista - ****

3. ...

About the problems of IESS: 'They have been around for 14 years'

18 Sept 2024  |  gk.city  |  Spanish  |  Financial Issues

The article examines the longstanding issues faced by the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute (IESS), highlighting critical areas such as financial instability, inadequate legal frameworks, and inefficient institutional management. It underscores the lack of transparency and political will in addressing these challenges, with specific reference to the need for comprehensive reforms in social security law. The text also discusses potential solutions, including increased transparency, updated actuarial studies, and the importance of political commitment to implement necessary changes. The role of various government bodies, including the Ministry of Health and the National Assembly, is critiqued for their insufficient action in resolving these systemic issues.

Tags:

Public Policy Financial Issues Social Security

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Center-Left

Political View