Tag: Global

This week marks the 106th anniversary of The Finance, Credit and International Business Association (FCIB). Founded in 1919, FCIB has been a trusted resource for international credit professionals, with certification programs that fortify designation seekers’ knowledge of international business, discussion groups that bring together a global network of members and invaluable resources that give insight into the world of credit.

Tariffs have long been a tool of international trade policy, used by countries to influence economic relationships and protect domestic industries. However, they can also result in higher prices for consumers and provoke retaliation from other nations—actions that may weaken exports and slow economic growth. When countries impose tariffs or other trade barriers on one another, it can escalate into what is known as a trade war.  

A long-running domestic political battle over controversial judicial reforms receded into irrelevance on October 7, the date on which Hamas militants based in the Gaza Strip launched a coordinated assault on mostly civilian targets inside Israel that resulted in more than 1,100 deaths and the capture of more than 250 hostages. Under the direction of a special war Cabinet that includes Benny Gantz, a former head of the IDF and the leader of the opposition National Unity, which joined an expanded emergency government, Israel initiated a scorched-earth ground invasion inside Gaza in late October.

The March consumer price index (CPI) showed a 3.5% increase compared to March 2023—while the probability of a June rate cut has quickly plunged from 56% to 17%. Though March’s inflation reading was significantly down from the pandemic-era peak in 2022 (the highest level since 1981), it remains above the Fed’s overall target of 2%.

All credit management responsibilities stem from one essential skill—the ability to form strong relationships. Business relationships have many layers, all of which credit managers must master. In global trade, credit professionals should try to understand the cultural differences of their customers overseas to ensure a successful relationship.

The world’s biggest shipping companies are rerouting vessels away from the Red Sea as the global supply chain faces severe disruption amid conflicts related to the Israel-Hamas war. “The Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen are playing an escalating role in the conflict in the Middle East, attacking shipping in the Red Sea and firing drones and missiles at Israel in a campaign they say aims to support Palestinians in the Gaza war,” reads a Reuters article.