South & Southeast Asia
The unprecedented election of Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad leaves open several big questions. The election could make way for a new political order, after throwing out the coalition that had ruled Malaysia since independence. Meanwhile, the opposition is embroiled in a heated debate over its own identity. Beyond the country’s borders, the new government’s approaches to neighbors like China and Singapore are already making waves.
European Union
The European Union’s ambitious attempt to re-regulate the financial industry (MiFID II) took effect this year. Companies are struggling to meet its complex disclosure requirements, which can only be met by powerful and costly IT solutions. Early experience suggests MiFID II is so unworkable that it may soon have to be replaced; but the bigger worry is that it may be the precursor of a real-time, global surveillance apparatus.
North America
The United States is increasing its engagement with the Western Balkans on issues including security, energy and good governance. The administration is trying to reduce instability in the region, improve economic development and counter outside influence from countries like Russia and China. If these efforts are successful, U.S. capital investment will increase and the Balkans will move closer toward NATO membership.
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