Explore the economic challenges as UK workers in traditional energy sectors consider strikes amid the green transition. Delve into Portland's economic struggles with population decline and job losses, raising concerns of an 'urban doom loop.' Plus, the IMF's call for aggressive rate cuts in Thailand and Europe's need to redefine its global role as America shifts focus. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the economic and geopolitical shifts shaping our world.

Sources:

https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2025/feb/21/uk-record-january-budget-surplus-tax-take-retail-sales-economy-business-live-news

https://www.kgw.com/article/news/local/the-story/portland-state-of-economy-urban-doom-loop-population-income-loss/283-b7bde05a-9d3d-4a61-9a18-870d63849f0f

https://www.kaohooninternational.com/economics/552981

https://www.economist.com/podcasts/2025/02/21/europe-has-no-choice-but-to-step-up-as-america-steps-elsewhere

Outline:

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:00:42) UK firms slash jobs as stagflation fears grow

(00:03:35) Portland still losing residents and jobs, signs of a looming 'urban doom loop'

(00:06:45) IMF Urges More Aggressive Rate Cuts in Thailand amid Economic Challenges

(00:10:11) Europe has no choice but to step up as America steps elsewhere