Economics & Policy

In this editorial, QBR Economics & Policy Editor Rishab Chakraborty discusses how information in the realm of financial services, markets, and intermediaries has traditionally been tightly regulated in a closed loop. This differs from traditional software, where consumer and behavioral data from non-financial institutions is typically unregulated in its use. However, with Open Banking reform coming to Canada’s regulatory data framework, we can see an uptick in innovation in the Canadian fintech space.

In this new article, QBR Sr. Advisor Joshua Cristofoli explores how SPACs are challenging the traditional IPO process, giving businesses a quicker route to the public markets and altering the financial landscape.

In a detailed guide to the recent changes to Canada’s capital gains inclusion rate as part of the 2024 Federal Budget, Senior Economics and Policy Editor Gefen Shpil outlines the impact such changes would have on individual investors, Canadian industries, and the economy. This article seeks to uncover just how many Canadians will be impacted by the changes and, most importantly, whether the Liberals are truly targeting the “ultra-rich”.

In this new article, QBR Editor Tomas Serrano investigates China's rapid advancement in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The article explores how substantial government support and innovative manufacturing have positioned China as a leader in EV development, despite challenges in global market penetration due to high tariffs and ethical concerns. Serrano contrasts China's progress with the slower growth in Western markets, emphasizing the impact of political and infrastructural uncertainties. As the world shifts from gas-powered cars to EVs, this analysis provides insight into the future of sustainable transportation and the lessons the West can learn from China's approach.

Owen Milstone explores how piracy threatens entertainment industries by diverting revenue from legal sources. Despite high spending by companies like Netflix, rising costs and labor disputes worsen the issue. The tragedy of the commons applies, where individual benefit outweighs collective harm, leading to widespread piracy. It affects TV, movies, music, and sports, impacting artists and athletes.

In this editorial, Tomas Serrano dives into the push for universal basic income (UBI) as a solution to poverty and income inequality has gained traction globally, especially in light of job displacement from advancements in AI. In Canada, bill S-233 seeks to establish a national framework for UBI, inspired by historical experiments like Manitoba's MINCOME.

Despite concerns about abuse, inflation, and costs, supporters argue that UBI could provide a safety net, aid workforce reintegration amidst automation, and foster a society where individuals pursue passions.

Eric van Remmen discusses how Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes industries and job markets, drawing parallels with historical instances of creative destruction. It highlights the potential risks and societal impacts of AI's rapid advancement, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address these challenges and ensure societal resilience.

In our latest financial analysis, Eric van Remmen delves into the mounting government debt crisis, spotlighting the United States' fiscal challenges and their global implications. From historical debt management to current deficits and interest payments eating away at budgets, we scrutinize the intricate web of monetary policies and their potential impacts. The critical question remains: Can governments navigate this economic landscape without catastrophic consequences while addressing mounting debt and its ripple effects?

In this compelling editorial, QBR Senior Editor Morgan Farley probes the evolving priorities of young Canadians navigating career choices amidst economic uncertainties. Balancing the age-old lure of high earnings against the increasing value placed on well-being and job satisfaction.

In this insightful editorial, QBR Editor Eric van Remmen dissects Canada's intricate dance with inflation, labor dynamics, and economic policies. Navigating through strikes, stimulus-induced booms, and aggressive immigration pushes, he shines a light on the delicate balance the nation must maintain amidst post-pandemic tremors. With the Bank of Canada on a tightrope and inflationary pressures at the helm, this piece offers a deep dive into the multifaceted challenges and potential trajectories of the Canadian economy.

The four-day work week presents various benefits. However, many counties and companies still follow a five-day work week due to the worry of less output from employees, because of losing a whole day. But, from many experiments and studies, that theory has been deemed flawed. Even with evidence, is there a more in-depth reason why companies are not transitioning to a four-day week, or are they just falling behind in this fast-paced world? 

Companies in Canada’s duopolistic and oligopolistic industries continue to grow stronger, signalling the need for intense government reforms. As seen in the aviation, banking, and telecommunications industries, outdated regulations harm Canadian consumers and entrepreneurs as they have an overwhelmingly negative impact on innovation and living costs.

Outdated terms may hinder Canadians’ ability to innovate in different industries, especially within the artistic, literary, and technological fields. Although measures may be taken to implement appropriate mechanisms to deal with the challenges resulting from the digital era, it is apparent that copyright is indeed being rendered obsolete.  

In recent decades, activists and environmentalists alike have made great strides to raise climate awareness. However, the frequency of natural disasters is increasing, and the intensity of climate-related issues is becoming crystal clear. If nations do not work together to reduce global carbon emissions before 2030, the effects of climate change will be irreversible. 

In recent months, the cost of fuel and oil have significantly risen to record-breaking heights. The staggering increase in the price of fuel—driven by several interconnected factors—has the potential to rewire economic, political, and social relations around the world.

Air travel has been going through a rollercoaster for the past few years, from blockbuster losses of $4.647 billion to major staff layoffs. Now with restrictions being lifted, the industry still has not received the relaxation it desperately needs, even with a significant amount of revenue coming in from bookings.

While price controls might seem effective from a macroeconomic perspective, such policy has significant consequences to Americans and citizens worldwide that outweigh the perceived benefit of increased affordability.

The North American cannabis industry is poised to become one of the fastest-growing and lucrative markets in our economy.

Canada’s economic recovery plan involving increasing interest rates is likely to create potential hurdles for consumers reaping the benefits of smaller interest payments.

UBI offers new hope to many Canadians amid struggling economic circumstances.

[ARCHIVE] A cautionary tale on cutting the cord of traditional macroeconomic policy

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