Basically Economics is guff! Don’t like it, then change the rules. Trump takes these measures to extremes, even changing the law to suit himself. However he is, like all egoists – so sure of his own ability that he will accept no criticism. The USA has been the foremost world super power for the last 75 years. With a couple of blips its military has ruled the world, its companies have dominated trade, its largesse has given it a controlling power in the IMF, World Bank, WHO and even the UN. Hollywood and Google/Facebook ensured that American culture ruled. Military might was matched with soft power. Russias influence waned after the collapse of the USSR. China has been extending its influence for the last 20 years, especially in Africa.
Trumps abrupt end to much USA Aid was met with shock and horror. But the real cost will come as the vacuum is filled, mainly by China. He who pays the piper calls the tune! The latest shock to American hegemony was the reveal of a Chinese competitor in the AI market. Chinese EV’s are begining to impact the world market.
Much is reported about a stagnant EU economy, but the very nature of the EU will ensure that sustainability is a key factor. Its key markets are internal and thus less likely to suffer from fluctuations in demand and profits. The UK should note – reliance on US products is harmful to our economy! Breakfast cereals, burgers and wings, etc. should not dominate the marketplace.
Taking back control was a mantra of Brexit – my targets would be the tech behemoths and MLC companies.
OMG – I should like Trump! Aaaargggh. But NO – not fair! We should grow more, develop quality, support international charities, promote equality amongst all citizens.
Something different – NHS. This government has admitted that it cannot be fixed in a way commensurate with its creation. I still lack understanding. I am sure there are many inefficiencies in the NHS – its overall structure seems a little top heavy – but I know nothing. However I have noticed Nat.Ins. going up. I thought this was nominally for the NHS? It is not tax deductible, or avoidable?. So make this the funding for the NHS exclusively. It would make it clear that the NHS comes at a price worth paying. Similar schemes should ring fence and openly display spending. Education, Prisons, Police, etc. At the moment government at all levels hides spending in accounts with vague figures or sums too large to comprehend.