Over the past five years, just as we’ve seen a resurgence in the price of oil, we’ve seen the weakening of personal freedom in many parts of the world. Is this a coincidence, or is there a causal relationship? The Trends editors argue that there is, in fact, a direct two-way relationship between a country’s economic system and its political system. What are the implications? And, how will this play itself out? We’ll tell you exactly how you should be thinking about this crucial multi-dimensional challenge.

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At the same time that the oil exporting countries are becoming more repressive, China knows that the kind of innovative, vibrant economy it needs is not possible in a totalitarian state. However, Chinese leaders are also acutely aware that the totalitarian model has played a key role in keeping the Communist Party in firm control. Because of these contradictions, China is stretched to it limits, trying to balance forces that threaten to tear it apart. Where is all this leading, and what does it mean for investors, managers, and the world? We’ll show you.

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Beginning in May, rumors of an inflation surge began spooking the markets. But, does this reaction make any sense? Are there reasons to believe that sustained inflation is making a comeback? And, is it realistic to believe that the Federal Reserve’s response to this inflationary perception will lead to a profit-killing economic contraction? The answer to all three questions is a resounding NO! In fact, deflation still remains the dominant force. We’ll tell you why. And, we’ll explain how you can make the most of the situation.

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The explosive boom in home construction and home prices has finally leveled off and is even declining in some markets, as the Trends editors have been predicting. So far, this slow-down is far milder than expected by some experts who have insisted that the U.S. housing market was a speculative bubble just waiting to burst. As we’ll explain, there’s no need to panic, unless you’re “in way over your head.” In fact, the softening market for second homes may present a particularly good buying opportunity for the long-term.

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Some analysts are already starting to talk about a new “tech bubble” in Silicon Valley. What is actually happening is the “build-out phase” of the info-tech revolution that the Trends editors have been talking about ever since the peak of the boom’s “pioneering phase” in 1999. What’s happening? What can you expect to happen? And, most importantly, what should you be doing as an investor or entrepreneur to make the most of the coming opportunities? We’ll offer some provocative answers to those questions.

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Oil prices rose sharply and remained high almost exclusively because of speculation based on geo-political tensions. The Trends editors still forecast a substantial drop in oil prices over the coming year. However, that scenario depends on international efforts to minimize the likelihood of a supply disruption. We’ll explain why the factors driving the price of oil are aligning to create a substantially lower price going forward.

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