Hong Kong's Status as an International Financial Center at Crossroads
Hong Kong lost its status as a global financial hub amidst shifting rankings and regulatory hurdles. Read the implications of China's tightening grip and cross-border capital flow uncertainties.
May 15, 2024 11:59 PM EDT
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.
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.
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