Indonesia is a long standing member of OPEC and a very Muslim country. You draw the conclusion that you care to, but Algeria comes quickly to mind.
Korea is already, preparing for some tough times as was imtimated by the new Prez. He figures 20% unemployed this year, which is about 1,000,000. Couple that with N. Korea and it's not a pretty picture.
Japan, is Japan. They have had to been careful with the US over trade. However the dollar has gained significantly vis-a-vis the yen.
Thailand, Malaysia and P.I. are area's that could errupt into chaos. Mass amounts of unemployment could casue problems.
India has been spared, for now. It, too, is a potential problem. Anger someone in government and you are charged with corruption. Big customer of the world bank..
Going further East, the Middle East; never know about them and all that oil.
Europe is big into Asia as far as trade. You could impact the growth that they have had.
South America, could get hammered by the very speculation that hemmoraged Asia. Venezuela, was banking on higher oil prices and now they are tanking, closing below $16 bopd for a four year low. This could also hurt Colombia as they are a net exporter, as well as Mexico.
USof A. Political turmoil and now the media is whispering resignation. Possible new Prez that will be lame duck and a frisky Congress of the opposition that will raise the bar of tax cuts and program cuts. A strengthening dollar and economy and stock market that has been largely fueled by an administration that has pushed exporting very hard. Businesses that have thrived, in part by, export growth due to weak dollar and government approval, may be hinder by frisky Congress or new Prez.
The falling oil prices, the strenghtening dollar and the possible abrupt change in administration, could bode ill for the short term (next six month's). Having a little put insurance is wise for the short term and some fresh powder to invest is not unwise.
Just my two cents................ |
