Ecuador's decision to borrow from its own Social Security Institute and impose oil production cuts on foreign firms will help precipitate an economic crisis. [more]
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries says it plans to reduce output by more than 4 million barrels per day, twice the expected amount. But will the cuts matter? [more]
Ecuador says it will default on a number of government bonds -- making it the first developing country to default in the present global economic crisis. [more]
Latin American countries that are vulnerable to ripple effects from the global financial crisis will be hit hard. (With Stratfor Interactive Map)[more]
Stratfor CEO Dr. George Friedman discusses his new book, "The Next 100 Years" which publishes January 27, 2009. The book, which has already begun receiving critical acclaim, offers a lucid, highly readable forecast of the changes he expects around the world during the 21st century.
"Israel's intention here is to wreck Hamas - its infrastructure, its personnel. They don't expect to be able to destroy Hamas permanently as an organization."
George Friedman Fox Business Network December 29, 2008
"Deploying ships to the Gulf of Aden marks a significant step in the evolution of China's navy, according to a report by Stratfor, an Austin, Texas-based intelligence company. The mission will be complicated, offering vital on-the-job training in refueling, resupply and repairs far from home as well as patrolling for pirates, Stratfor said."
Associated Press December 26, 2008
Out of the Shadows
Stratfor vice president for counterterrorism and corporate security Fred Burton discusses his best-selling book, an autobiography of a career spent hunting terrorists and protecting national security.