The fog of war and geopolitics makes initial responses to the attack on Russian and Syrian forces recently difficult to assess. Russian President Vladimir Putin's response seemed timid and was at odds with statements from his Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and more recent statements from Russia's Foreign Ministry. Putin backed off on explicitly blaming Israel … Continue reading Decoding Putin’s Response to Attack in Syria
Politics
Bill Browder Strikes Back in Europe
"I am altering the deal. Pray I don't alter it any further." — The Empire Strikes Back Since Vladimir Putin brought up Bill Browder’s name in Helsinki events have escalated to a fever pitch. Russia is under extreme attack the U.S./European financial and political establishment. And part of that push is coming from Browder himself. … Continue reading Bill Browder Strikes Back in Europe
Private Blog — Market Report 9-16-2018
I have a new Private Blog Market Report up for Patrons over at Patreon. This weekend we look at the situation in the S&P 500, Gold and Bitcoin as well as discuss the EU's descent into barbarism via the outrageous use of Article 7. These reports are exclusively for Patrons. You can gain access to … Continue reading Private Blog — Market Report 9-16-2018
Stakes Rise in Browder-Gate – EU Threatens Cyprus with Article 7
It's been quite a week for Article 7 of the Lisbon Treaty. First Hungary and now Cyprus. And all because of some guy named Bill Browder? Despite numerous warnings and obstacles, Cyprus continues to assist Russia in investigating the finances of Bill Browder. This has resulted in letters of warning to Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades … Continue reading Stakes Rise in Browder-Gate – EU Threatens Cyprus with Article 7
Russia Raises Rates to Raise Stability
2018 has not been kind to the Russian Ruble. Despite a improving macroeconomic statistics and a widening positive balance of trade the Ruble has lost more than 10% versus the dollar so far this year. So, the recent decision by the Bank of Russia to surprise everyone and raise interest rates 0.25% seems like a … Continue reading Russia Raises Rates to Raise Stability
Never Go Nuclear — The EU Goes After Hungary
If there is one thing people with power always do when confronted with intransigence it is they always go nuclear. As a parent we've all been there. That moment when your child calls your bluff on a particular thing you've been arguing over and you're left with no other option than to go through with … Continue reading Never Go Nuclear — The EU Goes After Hungary
Private Blog – Market Report 9-12: Article 7 and the Rise in Oil
I have a new Private Blog post up on Patreon for patrons discussing Article 7 proceedings against Hungary as well as what's happening in the Far East. Also a long-term look at oil prices. If you are interested in what these market reports look like there are a few of them available publicly on YouTube … Continue reading Private Blog – Market Report 9-12: Article 7 and the Rise in Oil
The Fate of Syria Lies in Trump’s Hands
Everything is pointing to a real confrontation between the U.S. and Russia over the retaking of Idlib in Syria. And when everything is pointing one direction, I always like to look at the other way to see what might really be going on. My latest article at Strategic Culture Foundation lays out the argument … Continue reading The Fate of Syria Lies in Trump’s Hands