Claims that our current inflation is due to government spending are nonsensical. There is a mantra which goes: if the economy is expanding, cut back public spending; if the economy is contracting, cut back public spending; if the economy is inflating, cut back public spending; if the economy is deflating, cut back public spending. Recognise a pattern?
Read MoreOne side says we should cut taxes but does not mention the implications for public spending; the other says we should increase public spending, but does not mention the implication for taxes.
Read MoreWhat do economic events since the Russian invasion of Ukraine tell us about globalisation?
Read MoreThey can justly reply that at least they know the difference. It matters a lot for those involved in the housing and investment markets.
Read MoreThe world’s united response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is giving Vladimir Putin pause and resetting geo-political calculations… not just in Moscow, but closer to home as well
Read MoreTerrified of being unable to cope with the world they look inward. The National Library seems to join them.
Read MoreShould the Children’s Commissioner be an officer of parliament?
Read MoreThe protest at Parliament reveals something of the gap between our laws’ thought and expression. And it requires a decision as to how far we will accommodate those who stand outside our world.
Read MoreNew Zealand’s approach to Covid can be boiled down to: Buy time. And it’s worked. But now it’s time to change tactics and execute the plan much, much better
Read MoreA Projection Suggests that in 2050 New Zealand will be a very different place.
Read MoreThe ‘Budget Policy Statement’ may reveal what the government really thinks.
Read MoreThe government’s proposed income insurance scheme is being described as a “social insurance” scheme. What does that mean, and why is the characterisation important for how you think about the scheme and how it could be funded?
Read MoreThere are quality economic forecasts and there are entertaining ones.
Read MoreThe World Happiness Project has some answers.
Read MoreIf China’s second largest property developer implodes, the Chinese financial system may be compromised, while the booming property market is so central to the Chinese economy, its staggering would impact internationally, including on New Zealand.
Read MoreLoud and angry protests against vaccine ‘mandates’, lockdowns and other Covid-restrictions continue here in New Zealand and around the world. It’s framed as a fight for freedom. It’s not. Rather, it’s a battle against consequences. So here’s my response to the ‘freedom fighters’, anti-vaxxers and all those nervous about the loss of freedoms during this pandemic
Read MoreMichael Lewis The Premonition: A Pandemic Story is another cracker to add to his other books such as ‘Liar's Poker’, ‘The Big Short’ and ‘The Undoing Project’.
Read MoreIt is the time of the year for reflection so let me share with you a problem which is puzzling me.
Read MoreArchbishop Desmond Tutu was one of my heroes. Here’s why
Read MoreWe are reminded by a turbulent year and Ayesha Verrall of the importance of an effective health system.
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