Poachers threaten elephant numbers in Thailand

As I was searching for news articles, this caught my eye. I saw that in Sherstin's Bio, as well as a few others, that people were interested in riding elephants on our trip, so I thought I would take a look at this article. I know that tourism is a huge part of the Thai economy, and that the elephant is a national icon in that country. Most people really respect the creatures, but unfortunately poaching has become a huge problem, due to the value of Ivory on the Black Market. This is hopefully a side of Thailand that we won't be exposed to, but I think it is important for us to know. Just for fun (and to see how amazing these creatures are), I found the following video of Thai Elephant Trainers who have taught the animals how to play basketball.

Here is the link to the poaching article:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-16795416

Ben Rindlisbacher

CY Leung elected Hong Kong's new leader

Mr Leung has been elected as Hong Kong's new leader!  The best part comes from "China Daily says Mr Leung has promised to uphold the principle of "One Country, Two Systems", and to form a government that is open to criticism."  To me this sounds awesome because we have seen in years past a strict communist country and a deprived people.  However, since the repossession of Hong Kong, a more liberal view has been creeping in to main land china.  I believe a strong proof of that is the progression and development from outside influences.  I think my favorite quote from Mr. Leung is "open to criticism."

Japan insider deal ruling raises questions

For the first time ever, the Japanese government has fined an established bank (Shuo Mitsui) for insider trading. How much was the fine for such an offence in Japan? 50,000 Yen, or about $600.

$600?! That amount is laughable when compared to American fines, sometimes exceeding $100 million.

Many are concerned that Japan is just not willing or able to regulate banks in this area, which could be worrisome. Still others believe that the expanding global market will eventually even itself out, and that such an event is really irrelevant.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/7758d6c8-7736-11e1-93cb-00144feab49a.html?ftcamp=published_links/rss/companies_asia-pacific/feed//product#axzz1qH6mbAyF

Amy Collyer

Obama presses China to influence North Korea

To commemorate the 100th birthday of the birth of North Korea's founder, North Korea has recently announced intentions to launch a long range missile attached to a satellite into space. While the launch in and of itself is not a direct threat, it does increase tension within the United Nations.

President Obama has asked President Hu Jintao to use their influence in Korea to stop the missile launch. President Obama has also been in contact with Russian leaders to discuss the issue. There is no news yet as to whether President Hu will actually follow through with President Obama's request.

I think it is quite unnerving for countries to have missiles orbiting the earth ready to launch at any moment. While I do not feel directly threatened by the North Korean plan, I think it is noteworthy that Obama has solicited China's help.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/story/2012-03-26/nuclear-summit-obama-china/53794298/1

Amy Collyer

China Summit 2012

Yearly China gathers a group of high-level personnel to discuss emerging issues and find solutions.  Last year over 200 high-level stakeholders gathered.  This year they are expecting more.  The economist says, “It could create positive outcomes for China and for the entire world. It could also mark a new era of greater, or new risks associated with doing business in China.  This is super interesting because many of the questions that bro. Carpenter has brought up in class are also being brought up in this conference, ‘what is going to happen to us, and the rest of the world as China grows and becomes a powerhouse?  Where are we going to get cheap labor, lets face it, Americans like it cheap, and we hate price changes.  My question is where and what is Wal-mart going to do?

Robert Ostler

http://www.economistconferences.asia/event/ChinaSummit2012

Clogged, creaking airports hamper SE Asia carriers

"It's a scene repeated endlessly at most of Southeast Asia's main airports - planes forced to circle overhead or idle on the tarmac and travellers stuck in serpentine queues at immigration desks, security checkpoints and baggage carousels.  And it's likely to get worse in capitals like Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Bangkok and Manila in years to come as overcrowded airports and outdated infrastructure are twinned with a huge spike in the number of aircraft in the region."

This quote adequately summarizes the article.  Growing demand, more planes, and fixed infrastructure means problems for transportation. 

I think it's obvious why I felt this was relevant. : )

Jeff Carroll
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/26/uk-airlines-southeastasia-idUSLNE82P00P20120326

Asian Stocks May Lead the Next Recovery

Investors are bullish about Asia being the starting point for the next recovery because, even though exports have suffered in country's like Asia, they are beginning to develop more self-reliance and self-contained economic development.  In general the article conveys the idea that Asians are more conservative and risk averse than their European or American counterparts and are sensitive to any bearish news.  Thus, developing more internally will help to build greater stability within China and the countries surrounding it.

I thought this article was interesting because it gives an insight into both the economy and culture of Asian countries.  I can't say that I knew they were so risk averse before reading this article.

Jeff Carroll
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/27/business/global/asian-stocks-may-lead-the-next-recovery.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1