China

The long-term "irreversible" trends I've discussed in detail in my upcoming book, $10,000 Gold, continue to develop.

Weaker than expected economic data from China has caused a sell-off in risk assets, especially commodities.

Economic growth in China slowed unexpectedly in the first quarter of the year, sparking concerns about the strength of the country's recovery.

EUROPE

EMD

ASEAN

AIM

Chris Bailey, head of direct global investment at Close Brothers Asset Management, urges investors to look again at Japan as a guide to investing closer to home.

Many analysts use sovereign ratings as a proxy for country risk, despite the fact they are two distinct risk types, say Marcel Heinrichs and Ivelina Stanoeva at S&P Capital IQ.

Fitch has cut China's local currency rating from AA- to A+, amid concerns the country is not doing enough to address its soaring debt levels.