A peculiar and troubled beginning marks Russia in the year 2013.
Cracks are appearing in the concrete cover at Chernobyl. In addition, meteors have fallen, causing harm to six cities, injuring over a thousand individuals, and damaging more than three thousand homes. The financial impact is estimated in millions.
Since the disintegration of the Old Russian states, financial difficulties are beginning to burden the old bear with hardship. The fringe states possess gold, oil, and numerous mineral ore mines that generate revenue and attract investments. It appears that the Russian populace may face more difficult times ahead.
Leading the way in space technology are the French, ahead of other European nations. While most European countries are struggling financially and imposing budget cuts, the French demonstrate their capacity to explore space and develop and launch rockets. Their latest initiative involves constructing a nuclear power station in southern UK, after which they will adjust the charges for UK customers’ energy bills. So, who actually has ownership over the UK…the French or the Germans?
Germany controls the finances, so alongside India and China, they are set to emerge as leaders in the twenty-first century.
In the next two decades, war threats seem directed towards Israel, Iran, and Korea. Caution should be exercised as China displays its might, gauging whether any nations will back Japan’s claims over its seas. A significant disparity exists between impoverished mountain nations tied to their history and an industrial power like Japan.
After enduring years of overseas conflict, the USA is poised to face financial repercussions as it bears the costs associated with its military operations. In the coming century, Americans may find themselves relegated to a secondary role in global affairs. Insularity will define their approach. Defense budget cuts are essential for the USA.
Who will intervene to rescue Syria from mass murder? Australia has numerous allies who uphold their commitments, but we must exercise caution to avoid getting entangled in conflicts that do not align with our interests.
With abundant minerals and promising oil prospects, we should anticipate enhancements in standards of living and population growth.
Religion is expected to cause significant upheaval this century. However, if Muslims maintain their aggressive growth, increased fatalities can be anticipated. Christians might experience growth once strict oversight of the clergy is enforced, while Africa will struggle to amplify its influence as long as its democratic governments are perceived as corrupt.
The most pressing threat over the next fifty years will be the vast wealth generated from drugs. This will lead to the deterioration of family structures, the collapse of legal systems, and the fall of many good individuals. Only through United Nations intervention to manage militias and police forces targeting this issue can we hope to eradicate this scourge that is endangering the youth of tomorrow.
The overvalued Australian dollar will hinder progress in the near term, but our mineral wealth remains our strength.
The issues surrounding gay marriages and adoptions are prominent this century. By 2100, the family structure we currently recognize may lead to significant breakdowns in our personal lives. Marriage serves as the bedrock of society; without it, the future appears bleak.
Consider the warnings about drugs in sports not being the primary threat to the game, but rather gambling on outcomes, which can lead to its demise. Recently, a major soccer match was tainted by a referee’s decision. Despite lacking the same skills and compensation as players or managers, the referee can influence the outcome without scoring a goal. Fans invest heavily to attend games, spending on tickets, programs, food, and drinks… they expect a fair match and result. Those who wagered on the outcome and backed the away team profited from a controversial decision made by the referee. In recent years, Spanish teams have witnessed players from opposing teams being dismissed late in competitions. Are these peculiar outcomes dictated by referees?
Shift focus from drugs and emphasize the need to curb gambling on major games in order to protect fans, or sports as a whole will inevitably decline. It is time to prohibit all sports gambling, except for horse and dog racing. What are your thoughts on betting for premier matches such as tennis, cricket, and football?
Ultimately, one significant risk emanates from Euro-ville – any governmental decision that authorizes the seizure of funds from bank accounts would be catastrophic. If they can implement this in Cyprus, they can replicate it anywhere… even Australia. It resembles a dictatorial pronouncement from Germany’s past. Perhaps they are intent on provoking a bank run. This could be advantageous for the German economy while leading to a substantial decline in the value of the Yankee dollar.
Keep an eye on share prices in the upcoming months.
by TOG
