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By Rhod Mackenzie
The concentration of production of critical minerals (nickel, copper, lithium, etc.) in a small number of countries and the imposition of export restrictions by the 2030s could create serious problems for high-tech industries around the world. This is the conclusion reached by ana...

By Rhod Mackenzie

In 2024 Russia produced record levels of alcohol including wine,beer and spririts although alcohol consumption and exports rose. Rhod Mackenzie looks at the sector and what is behind the increase in the volume of production.

In 2024, Russia set a new record for alcohol producti...

By Rhod Mackenzie

The global financial system is no longer exclusively a matter for the West. The decision by the Chinese agency CCXI to assign a BBB+g credit rating to Russia is not merely a technical assessment; it is a symbol of a global turning point. It is evident that Fitch, Standard and Poo...

By Rhod Mackenzie

According to S&P Global, seaborne exports of Russian crude oil increased by more than 50% in April, reaching a 13-month high. In particular, oil tankers from G7 countries have been actively involved in transportation. Lets explore the reasons behind Western ships' increased invol...

By Rhod Mackenzie

As Russia and Ukraine begin their first talks in three years, the European Union has decided to tighten its sanctions against Moscow. Brussels is now threatening to impose significant restrictions on Russian oil, gas and financial sectors. Plus, the EU is contemplating the implem...

By Rhod Mackenzie

Recently, the Estonian Navy, with the support of NATO aircraft, attempted to detain the tanker named the Jaguar which sails under the Gabonese flag in international waters. The vessel had left the Indian port of Sikka and was heading to the Russian Primorsk, not far from St. Pete...