Again, my apologies to all faithful readers for the long absence — I was literally at sea!

Lots has happened — new stock market highs, new life in Japan, fresh optimism about the US and Africa.  Some of this is justified, but much I fear is not, unless new policies develop to make these gains sustainable.

There is also a strong turn toward Islamist regimes in Egypt, Libya, Turkey and now Syria (where today’s rebels, if they become tomorrow’s regime, are increasingly dominated by Al Qaeda-influenced Jihadists).

I will have a fresh blog later today on Syria; and then resume the normal 2-3 times per week schedule.

Thanks for coming back!