Central bank independence, a totem of economic respectability, is being challenged in some key emerging markets as the Covid-19 pandemic rages toward its second anniversary.
Autonomy in setting interest rates has become almost holy writ the past few decades. Countries whose policymakers can act without political encroachment are widely considered to be better managed, with superior long-term growth and inflation that’s under control. The idea is that central bankers can act in a nation’s long-term interest without deference to government leaders; the latter by instinct tend to shy away from tough decisions.
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The Word That Went Unsaid at Davos
The outlook among global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in mid-January ranged from cautiously optimistic to unapologetically positive. Attendees interviewed by Bloomberg News during the proceedings talked about the reopening of China, the warmer-than-expected winter, which has helped keep energy prices down, and the expected surge in other commodity prices that hasn't occurred.
Monster Truck
Mercedes makes the G-Wagen bigger, badder and in a way I didn't think possible better.
A Natural Touch For Jewelry
Collectors clamor for Emmanuel Tarpin’s one-of-a-kind pieces.
These Watches Are Not for You
Max Büsser and his band of revolutionaries made products they themselves wanted-and built a huge fandom on the way.
INDEPENDENTS DAY
Small watchmakers are soaring thanks to a boom in timepiece: collecting and a supply crunch among the most famous Swiss brands.
FOREVER 18?
Middle-aged tech centimillionaire Bryan Johnson and his team of 30 doctors say they have a plan to reboot his body
Big Brother at Bargain
NSO Group and its rivals have made military-grade surveillance software shockingly affordable. The way it was used against the real-life hero of Hotel Rwanda might finally force lawmakers' hands
Trolling While on Autopilot
Amid falling demand and sudden price cuts, Elon Musk seems determined to take a blowtorch to his car company’s brand
Tackling Textile Waste
A machine that sorts unwearable clothing is helping divert items away from landfill
Faulty Towers
Wind turbine breakdowns have bedeviled manufacturers in the US and Europe
Across the Pond
Overseas adventure camping gear shouldn't weigh you down
Unnecessarily Fast, or Unnecessarily Dangerous?
“The bigger they are, the harder they fall.” This truism comes from boxing, but applies to all walks of life. Innovative MotoGP superstar Marc Marquez, however, adds a new twist.
I Am Coconut … A Killer Nut? Not Even Close
The FOOD ON YOUR PLATE
THE KRIS-ENING OF RAYA AND THE RUSSIAN RAID
When you think about society’s need for Asian female heroes who can influence Asian-American women of all ages to stand up for themselves and fight for justice in their communities, Raya and the Last Dragon could not have come at a better time.
Readers Choice: Best Destinations For Photography
Species diversity, ideal in-water conditions and weird wonders earn these destinations top honors
VOTING DAY around the World
When it comes to elections in the United States, it’s pretty certain that most people will be voting on a Tuesday. The custom of voting on a Tuesday in November was established when many Americans were farmers. By November, the growing and harvesting seasons were over making it easier for farmers to leave their work and go vote.
One Child Fund
Indonesia Children’s Home
TRAVEL TIPS: INDONESIA
Get the most out of your next dive trip
Voyaging Skills
Two sailors with a thirst for voyaging
Into the Wild
Connect with Borneo’s orangutans and the people dedicated to conserving them and their habitat.