Articles by Oliver Hartwich

New Zealand’s government claims credit for recent interest rate cuts, but the Reserve Bank cites economic struggles. Rising public debt, inflated welfare costs and declining productivity present major fiscal challenges ahead.

The Western order is quietly disintegrating. Business leaders must adopt a long-term vision to restore this order’s Enlightenment foundations.

The meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska symbolised a shift in power dynamics, undermining European security and enabling Russia’s aggressive ambitions while leaving Ukraine vulnerable.

Seemingly disjointed political conversations may actually be strategic signaling among leaders, as demonstrated in the Interislander ferries saga.

The latest poll indicates Prime Minister Luxon faces a potential hung parliament, struggling with a low favourability rating and communication missteps, amid waning public support.

The recent EU-US trade deal reveals Europe’s strategic surrender, imposing tariffs on EU goods while offering limited benefits, raising concerns over economic impact and climate policy.

The shift in Europe’s ESG framework integrates energy, security, and defense, reflecting geopolitical realities amid ongoing conflicts and energy vulnerabilities, impacting global investment strategies.

The New Zealand Initiative delegation discovered during their Amsterdam visit that the Dutch successfully reduced regulatory burdens without political controversy, contrasting New Zealand’s contentious regulatory reform environment driven by emotional concerns.