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1. Uncertainty Takes Its Toll The rapid changes in U.S. policy announced since the new administration took office in January are beginning to affect consumers, according to preliminary survey results for March. The University of Michigan’s Index of Consumer Sentiment stood at 57.9 in the latest release, a decline of 22% from December 2024. The forward-looking component of the index, which measures consumer expectations, dropped even more sharply, falling 26% to 54.2. This decline follows weeks of dramatic developments, including the inconsistent imposition of extensive tariffs, a significant deterioration in the stability of the transatlantic alliance, and a narrowly averted government shutdown. Equity markets were initially expected to benefit from the administration's business-friendly stance, but volatility has ensued; on March 13, the S&P 500 index entered correction territory (defined as a drop of 10% or more from its most recent high) before recovering slightly after th...

  The cost that its migrant workers bear is a negative aspect of the UAE's prosperity.  A look at the dark side of the UAE's progress: the country thrives on migrant labor, but its workers live in despair.  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is well-known for its rapid economic expansion, advanced infrastructure, effective systems, and impressive innovations, including luxury developments and transportation networks. The country's glistening skyscrapers, pristine beaches, and a sense of freedom that inspires individuals to pursue diverse career paths and form meaningful connections frequently captivate visitors. However, beneath the polished surface lies a more complicated reality.  During my trip to the UAE in 2022, I became acutely aware of the difficulties that a lot of expatriates face, especially with the time-consuming process of renewing their visas. Expats do not receive Emirati citizenship despite living in the UAE for ten or even fifteen years. Reactions to the...

  Punjab's Chief Minister ought to champion human capital development, emphasizing education to promote economic growth . Punjab's greatest resource is not its coastline, hydropower, or population, greater than that of over 70 nations, but rather its human capital.  The strategic development of human capital is essential for unlocking the province's long-term economic potential in the face of Pakistan's ongoing development challenges.  Punjab must make significant investments in the growth of its people if it is to break the cycle of poverty, establish a sustainable economy, and raise the standard of living for its citizens.  The economies of countries like South Korea, Vietnam, China, Thailand, and Indonesia that have placed a high value on the growth of their human capital have undergone remarkable transformations over time.  Through targeted investments in education, healthcare, and child development over the past three decades, these nations have lifted mill...