China’s Payment Wars, Biden’s C onfirmations Progress, and More

November 30, 2021

“What is going on in Chinese payments is a fascinating battle of private sector innovation versus government control and big-tech versus big-banks, putting the usually staid and boring world of payment systems into the spotlight, allowing for examination of broader narratives about the future of China and how it is playing the global economic game,” writes Aaron Klein.

The Biden administration’s effort to fill federal vacancies is moving at a snail’s pace, with many high-ranking nominees languishing in the Senate. Kathryn Dunn Tenpas gives a rundown of the federal confirmations process at the 300-day mark.

Major lifestyle changes will be required by consumers, especially from wealthy countries, to reach the shared goal of keeping climate warming to less than 1.5 degrees Celsius. Homi Kharas explains how public policy can encourage shifts in consumer behavior.

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