globalEDGE Blog - Page 16

On August 30, 2023, a swift and unexpected coup d'état shook the foundations of Gabon’s political landscape. While the coup’s duration was short-lived, its repercussions have profoundly impacted the country’s business environment. The ramifications of this event have created a ripple effect across the business sector, introducing an atmosphere of unpredictability and risk that companies operating in Gabon must now confront.

Shrinkflation has infiltrated our shopping experiences in more ways than one. From supermarket aisles to the realm of services, it’s a phenomenon leaving consumers both puzzled and frustrated. A variety of companies worldwide are using this cost-saving technique. Companies are reducing the size or quantity of a product while keeping its price the same or even increasing it. In other words, less products cost more.

Welcome back to the globalEDGE blog! The globalEDGE team of talented student writers is thrilled to resume our regular Monday through Thursday blog schedule.

This week marks the end of the Michigan State University Spring 2023 semester, which also closes another school year in the books for the globalEDGE blog team. globalEDGE Blogs will take a break from its regular schedule throughout the summer months, anticipating returning in September 2023.

Cryptocurrencies have been gaining popularity and attention over the past few years, with more and more people investing in them to diversify their portfolios. Some trending names you may have heard of include Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Tether. As the industry expands, so do concerns about illegal activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing. The European Union (EU) parliament recently approved the world’s first comprehensive cryptocurrency regulation to address these concerns. The name of the law is Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA). This landmark decision has significant implications for businesses operating in the crypto industry.

The two leading generals of the third largest country in Africa have clashed over the country’s vast economic and political power. So, what is happening on the global economic stage in the face of this conflict? 

One of the most iconic home brands that has been in business for the last 70 years, Tupperware, is in jeopardy of not being able to “contain” its losses. With operations in over 100 countries and over 10,000 employees, Tupperware has a large international presence, and its products are used by thousands of people every day.

After last month’s largest banking crisis in the United States at Silicon Valley Bank, the stock market faces repercussions. The bank withheld long-term debt that had declined in market value as the Fed raised interest rates to fight inflation. As a result of this, the bank collapsed. Market watchers said that many investors have appeared more fearful of a potential downturn and are concerned about a possible rescission.

The 87th edition of the Masters concluded two weeks ago. The Masters is one of four major golf tournaments each year and is known as one of the most prestigious tournaments in golf. The tournament started in 1934 and saw its 23rd international winner this year, with John Rahm from Spain receiving his first green jacket. Rahm is the first Spanish player to win the Masters since Sergio Garcia won in 2017. This Masters win is John Rahm’s second major and first major win since his 2021 win in the US Open. The total winnings purse from the masters was 18 million dollars this year, and with first place, John Rahm took home 3.24 million dollars with his masters win.

Formula One, also known as F1, is one of the world’s most popular and prestigious motorsport events. The adrenaline-pumping races, cutting-edge technology, and glamorous lifestyle associated with F1 have captivated audiences worldwide for decades. But did you know from the logistics to hosting races to the development of the race cars, Formula 1 is one of the most financially impactful sports.