Taking stock of 2011 provides a looking glass into what will shape 2012. The Epoch Times recaps pivotal moments and movements around the globe that are sure to make the headlines again in the coming year.
CANADA: Conservative Banking Gains Currency  Canada weathered the great recession better than other developed nations, giving the country’s financial leaders, particularly Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, greater international influence. Carney was appointed head of the Financial Stability Board for a three-year term starting in November. Canada’s economic resilience rests in its tightly regulated and conservative financial sector, though Carney’s foresight in keeping interests rates low and committing to do so for a year, as well as providing additional liquidity to the financial system, have been widely lauded. |
MEXICO: Oil, Economy, and Security  Entering 2012 Mexico will continue to face significant security challenges throughout the country from drug cartel violence and military abuses. Recent declines in oil production in Mexico’s national oil industry has hit the economy hard; the government relies on tax revenue from oil producer Pemex for 30 to 40 percent of its budget. Despite oil’s role as the national inheritance, Mexico may be forced to open the gates to foreign investment in domestic oil to encourage exploratory drilling and boost production. |
BRAZIL: Playing Host Can Bring Host of Problems  |
