Is there something underlying the militarization of NATO member countries and rapidly escalating conflict in the middle east? Our discussants for this episode place the most recent geopolitical developments in context of the greater struggle between the US and China, the shift to Keynesian policies, and the historical context of rising and falling global industrial powers. Implications for Sri Lanka were then discussed to highlight the dangers of the economy’s overreliance on tourism and its faltering independence as a state. The episode was hosted by Roshan Madawela, who was joined by Shiran Illanperuma, Dr Howard Nicholas and Dr Bram Nicholas.
In this compelling discussion, Roshan Madawela explores the impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on tourism in Sri Lanka, reflecting on the sector’s crucial economic role before recent crises. Zalia Zogheib offers a historical background of the conflict, while Nasr-Eldin Ayoub-Bey and Lionel Peiris critically examine Israel’s actions, Western support, and the implications of Israeli tourism in Sri Lanka including controversial establishments like Kavad House. The panel addresses issues of propaganda targeting Palestine activism, calls for government accountability, and unpacks the ideological, financial, and geopolitical dimensions behind the ongoing conflict and Western involvement.
In an era marked by economic and geopolitical unpredictability, the erosion of a so-called ‘rules-based world order’ has exposed deep inconsistencies in international relations, with the US-led West losing credibility due to its erratic and often contradictory policies. Meanwhile, China has quietly strengthened its economy through strategic investments in technology, innovation, domestic demand, and a growing trade ecosystem. As Donald Trump’s tariff wars unsettle global markets, China appears far better prepared, prompting a closer look at its development model, the West’s miscalculations, and the broader implications for emerging economies like Sri Lanka.
What does a diagnosis of the external balance problems faced by the developing world tell us about the policy recommendations offered by the IMF. Moreover, do they even work or are they a prescription to ensure that countries have to return to the IMF at regular intervals as part of the growth crash cycle ? Is the quantity theory of money and its Polak variation still credible ? Find out all of the above and more as Prof. Howard Nicolas along with Bram Nicolas address these vitally important issues in conversation with Roshan Madawela. In particular, the recent case of Sri Lanka’s economic crash and the IMF program that followed are used as a case study.
Only a few years after many developing economies were battered with (near) debt crises and faltering external positions, the developing world is set to face another year of great adversity in 2025. Persistently high US interest rates, increasing economic aggression from the US towards developing countries and a building global recession are all converging into the perfect storm. We’re joined today by Professor Jayati Ghosh and Dr Howard Nicholas to discuss these ongoing developments and get a sense of the possible future.
Join us for a conversation between CEO of Research Intelligence Unit Roshan Madawela and Sanjay Kathuraia. As we discuss how business leaders particularly for the SME sector can equip themselves with modern challenges, emerging opportunities and on the whole prepare them selves to succeed in rapidly changing environments.
Join us for an enlightening discussion on the shifting geopolitical landscape as we explore the rise of the BRICS nations and the implications for industrialization in the developing world. Featuring insights from: Prof. Radhika Desai – Geopolitical Economist, Prof. Howard Nicholas – Professor in Economics, Erasmus University, Rotterdam & International Institute of Social Studies, The Hague, Bram Nicholas – COO of ETIS Lanka Delve into the challenges and opportunities facing emerging economies in a rapidly changing global order.
Welcome to RIUNITS’ third podcast episode! Join us as Prof Jayati Ghost and Prof Howard Nicolas discuss the global rise in inequality, the IMF’s not so hidden agenda and a short term’s forecast for the global economy.
Welcome to RIUNITS’ second podcast episode! Join us as we navigate IMF Reviews, Economic Realities, and the future of Sri Lanka’s economic sovereignty. From analyzing Expectations vs. Reality to exploring the impacts of privatization and corruption dynamics, our discussion dives deep into crucial economic issues shaping global and local landscapes. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of these pressing topics.
Welcome to RINUITS‘ inaugural podcast! In this first episode, we are honoured to feature Dr. Howard Nicholas, who will discuss global recession trends, government budgets and policies, national debt, and the role of the IMF. Bram Nichols will provide insightful data supporting these economic theories and will also explore the future of industrialisation in Sri Lanka. Additionally, our very own Founder and CEO, Roshan Madawela, will share his perspective on the current economic crisis, particularly through the lens of the real estate market. Join us for an enlightening discussion on these critical issues.