Exploring the New Global Safe Haven
The search for a new global safe haven intensifies with the erosion of the convenience premium in the US. Switzerland emerges as a major safe haven, while the UK and Germany face challenges. Global uncertainty fuels the trend to seek safe-haven assets. The US must consolidate its debt and reduce its fiscal burden.
Nepal Chooses Its First Female Prime Minister on Discord: What It Reveals About Social Media and Democracy
Nepal elected Sushila Karki as prime minister through Discord during protests in 2025, due to the lack of institutional channels and dependence on digital platforms in the political crisis. Social media fragments public conversation, favoring polarization and misinformation. The use of Discord allowed for Karki’s legitimate election. Economic digitization in Nepal responds to the lack of diversification and dependence on remittances. The blocking of social media triggered youth protests, turning Discord into the main space for deliberation and election.
TikTok Could Change Ownership, But Privacy Concerns Remain
President Trump signed an executive order to allow TikTok to remain available in the U.S. under a $14 billion deal, transferring the American operation to international investors, raising concerns about privacy and government intervention. Trump led negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping for the handover, leaving U.S. and other investors with majority control. The move raises uncertainties about user data protection, free speech, and government surveillance.
Trump and Netanyahu: The Gaza Peace Plan in 20 Points
Trump and Netanyahu present a 20-point peace plan for Gaza, urging Hamas to release hostages and end the conflict. The plan includes an immediate ceasefire, release of hostages, humanitarian aid, disarmament of Hamas, and a transition of government in Gaza supervised by an international authority. Netanyahu accepts the plan, subject to approval by Israel and Hamas, and Trump supports stabilization with an international force in Gaza. However, Hamas claims not to have received the plan and there are internal tensions in Israel over the agreement.
Coffee and Chocolate Enthusiasts: Act Now for EU Deforestation Rules
The EU must implement rules against deforestation to protect coffee and chocolate. The European Commission proposed postponing the regulation by 12 months due to technical issues, but this will ban imports from deforested lands after December 31, 2020. A risk-free category for deforestation-free products is being debated. A second postponement could harm forests, as the EU consumes 15% of global deforestation.