2025 Ukranian War, Other Hot Spots
Ukraine, issues with immigration around the world, the transition in the United States, more war and aggression in Yemen and the West Bank and Syria-- it all adds up to significant possible turmoil in the financial communities. We see precious metals, some types of financial instruments and "safe harbor" investments being attractive for investors for the remainder of 2025.
The war and concerns in the Middle East are always a hot issue. People, lives, and families in several countries are plagued by the turmoil. Economic issues, and losses, along with the much more important human losses, will continue to add in 2025.
Many political parties, and banks with influence, are making more and more comments about using cryptocurrency instead of fiat money. There is significant uncertainty as to how and when these types of changes could impact international credit.
As 2025 unfolds, we believe there will be many challenges in the financial sector. However, with challenges and changes comes opportunities.
The World according to Tariffs
The threat, counter-threat and reality of intended, revoked or existing Tariffs will be with us in 2025. For many businesses, this threat and reality will cause several meaningful issues for growth, economic health as well as forecasting. Some of these are unchartered waters, some have been travelled before, if not recently, at least in the history of the United States. The Smoot-Harley Act of 1930 has been historically the highest Tariffs ever imposed by the United States. 1930 was the height of the worldwide depression which started in 1929. This depression laid the groundwork for regime change in Italy and Germany due to the depressed economies.
As we travel through these troubled waters in 2025, we should look out for rocks in the harbor and to assist each other as global partners when and where possible.