
Dan Steinbock
Founder, Difference Group
Jun 05, 2015
Despite obstacles, the White House continues to push preferential trade deals in Asia and Europe. But neither can reverse the erosion of U.S. innovation and in Asia Pacific the proposed pact is more likely to divide than unify the region.
May 12, 2015
China and India are ready for breakthrough diplomacy that has the potential to reorder the face of Asia, while supporting global growth prospects. Of course, there is also concern on both Chinese and Indian sides, due to the lingering border disputes, the shadow of the 1962 war, and the pivot of multiple powers to Asia.
Apr 13, 2015
Over the past two years, Washington has lobbied against the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. Now, nearly 50 countries have joined or applied to become prospective founding members. Dan Steinbock argues that the U.S. opposition is a reflection, not the cause, of a deeper challenge – that of adjusting American exceptionalism into the era of multipolar world economy.
Mar 09, 2015
The controversial issue of “currency manipulation” has resurfaced. However, Washington and Beijing have very different perceptions about the identity of the “currency manipulator.” The net effect is currency friction that is likely to prevail until the 2020s.
Jan 29, 2015
President Obama’s sixth State of the Union (SOTU) address was heavy on domestic policy and light on foreign policy. The president did not talk much about recent progress in the US-Chinese relations. Instead, he focused on the urgency to complete the U.S.-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement – without China. There is a reason to the omission and the focus: the Obama White House is increasingly concerned over its legacy.
Jan 16, 2015
In 2013, the Sino-US relations ended with concern over strategic mistrust. In 2014, bilateral relations were characterized by a sense of optimism. While bilateral trust may endure through the Obama era, challenges will ensue thereafter.
Nov 05, 2014
Dan Steinbock discusses the history of Asian-Pacific regional trade zones, and the U.S.’s geopolitical trade concerns with APEC. For the U.S. to see greater economic cooperation with China, it should consider the more inclusive FTAAP proposal.
Oct 22, 2014
The proposed Asian infrastructure bank could galvanize growth in emerging Asia and boost lingering global recovery.
Sep 29, 2014
Washington has launched still another “war against terror” in the Middle East and beyond. It is the kind of escalation that the Islamic State has hoped. In contrast, Beijing is likely to stick to cautious engagement.
Sep 01, 2014
The Russia sanctions are likely to have an adverse impact on Russian, U.S. and Chinese economy and could push Europe to a triple-dip recession. A diplomatic solution could deter diminished global prospects.