Breakingviews

 
By Wayne Arnold
The commodities trader is moving its HQ to Singapore, where its CFO joins Facebook founder Eduardo Saverin and a stream of bankers. Low taxes and proximity to growing Asian markets explain the appeal. But a warm welcome may depend on new arrivals’ ability to create local jobs.

One reason for Facebook IPO mess: Zuck didn't care

By Rob Cox
From the get-go, Mark Zuckerberg made clear he had little interest in welcoming public shareholders. His voting advantage codified the fact. A strong CEO can temper short-term urges elsewhere. But when he’s indifferent, it makes a failed process like Facebook’s more likely.

Italy's new off balance sheet wheeze

By Neil Unmack
Rome is in a bind; arrears to local companies are choking the economy, but funding them upfront could push up the country’s debt and spook markets. So Italy is using banks to front some of the money. The optics are better, even if the benefit for the economy is probably worse.

China doesn't need a policy U-turn

By Wei Gu
The premier has given investors hope for a new stimulus. But Beijing shouldn’t panic this time. Unlike in 2008, there are no massive job losses threatening stability, and still too much money sloshing around from the last stimulus. Structural reforms are the right remedy.

Eurovision a good metaphor for lack of euro vision

By George Hay
The Eurovision Song Contest is usually a showcase for the blandest europop. But in amongst the dross, this year’s entry from Montenegro contains a strong anti-austerity message. Euro zone politicians should worry if the annual cheesefest gets bolshy.

Did Chesapeake miss Enron lessons?

By Christopher Swann
There have been no allegations of fraud. But the embattled U.S. natural gas producer’s vast trading operation, fondness for complicated holdings and relationships, and corporate generosity are among the traits that call to mind some of the defunct energy giant’s flaws.
Related Articles:

JPMorgan hits Washington's reset button

By Daniel Indiviglio
U.S. senators who oversee the banking sector slammed regulators on Tuesday for apparent lapses related to JPMorgan’s trading losses. Other Dodd-Frank tweaks that had been moving along are grinding to a halt. Glimmers of hope for clear bank rules look all but squashed for now.
Recent Breakingviews Video
All Columnists