2013 July 16 « Dr Alf's Blog

‘The ‘Foreign Policy of the EU’ Panel Discussion at Brookings, Panelists, 8. 4. 2010 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This is an excellent MUST READ ARTICLE, published in June 2012. Check it out!

via 12 Signs of the Europocalypse – By Douglas Rediker and David Gordon | Foreign Policy.

The article is very easy to read and very stark in terms of identifying the risks. Since 2012, stock markets have continued to rise but many of the underlying issues are still lurking close to the surface.

It’s interesting to reflect on how effectively risks have been removed in the last twelve months?

I wonder if our political leaders and central bankers have an effective risk mitigation strategy?

Any thoughts?

European flag outside the Commission (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

English: Olives in olive oil. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

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This is an interesting story from the BBC which is RECOMMENDED READING, in my view. Check it out!

via BBC News – India’s plan to become a leading olive oil producer.

My mind drifted to Southern Europe, the traditional home of olive oil production. Sadly, because of distorted policies like the Common Agricultural Policy which favors France and excessive focus on austerity, Southern Europe’s traditional industries seem to be dying, strangled for cash for working capital and investment.

This article should be a wake-up call to the European Commission but I fear that the Mediterranean olive groves will wither first.

Any thoughts?