Europe appears to be in the twilight of the mid-cycle, with economic growth setting at a solid, sustainable pace.
Shinzo Abe's landslide victory in last year's presidential election leaves him in an unprecedented position of power and likely to become the longest-serving Japanese premier ever.
'Three cycles are colliding'
Four-part Big Question special
A lacklustre performance by gold and silver prices this year, despite multiple ongoing geopolitical issues, has renewed questions about the relevance of precious metals as a major investment class.
Trade wars continue to dominate headlines. It is often the explanation behind any sell-off.
Four-part Big Question special
Four-part Big Question special
Assessing central banks since Lehmans' collapse
Four-part Big Question special