December 2011 issue
Cover Story
Cover story Europe has become the sick man of the global economy while the euro zone is undoubtedly the sick man of Europe. John Walsh looks at what lies in store in 2012 – some treaty change perhaps and a changed role for the ECB.
Politics
Europe has a bloody history of democratic failure and the rise of populist autocracies. After already claiming two political scalps, the seemingly all powerful ‘Market’ should not be allowed trample over democratic processes, writes Tiarnán Ó Córráin.
Economics
Markets are forecasting the euro will ultimately prevail, but its underlying institutions are facing radical overhaul. Member states would be well advised to get ready for a new rules-based fiscal policy and a credible threat of expulsion
ECB
It’s too late to continue debating the issue of burning bondholders, a far more pressing issue is the need to pay the Emergency Liquidity Assistance given to Anglo and Irish Nationwide, Karl Whelan explains why.
Rebuilding Ireland
Hooking up the beleaguered SME sector with disapora lenders could be an important springboard to recovery, writes Maurice O’Gorman.
Profile
After forcing out two political leaders in Europe, ‘The Market’ is once more being treated as an awe-inspiring all powerful creature. Patrick Freyne profiles the history and development of its systems and infrastructure.
