World Perspectives

Denuded Logic; Tax Consequences

Denuded Logic A key argument by some Europeans in both opposing palm oil imports, voting against a trade agreement with Brazil, and seeking self-sufficiency in plant proteins is deforestation. Politicians are reminded that Brazil’s rainforests are the earth’s “lungs” and Southeast Asia is worsening climate change by burning down its trees to plant palm plantations. But the data appears to tell a different story.  While Brazil’s forested area declined by 9.9 percent since 1990, the EU’s tree covered land mass has declined by 14 percent. Granted, most member states have increased forested area but some like Greece pull down the average. Indonesia has had a larger decline in rainforests but Malaysia f...

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WPI Grain Transportation Report

Dry bulk freight rates cratered this week as China started its Golden Week holiday, which blanketed markets with calm and quiet. Pacific markets were especially dull and weaker, especially amid doubts about how China’s grain demand will play out after the holiday. China still has not book...

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Mercosur Regional Analysis

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From WPI Consulting

Weighing in on strategic realignment

WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.

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