Michael Z. Williamson (SurvivalBlog’s Editor at Large) spotted this: Passed from War to War’: Germany’s Small Arms Exports Double. Mike’s Comment: “This news story has been picked up by most German major papers. It is being seen as a way to attack Angela Merkel’s “Merkel Doctrine”. I believe it is safe to say that this might decrease the number of German Federal International Small Arms Export Licenses. This might impact the supply of H&Ks and Walthers in the US, which may push up retail prices.”
Mike also flagged this from Stratfor: The Growing Importance of the Arctic Council
The Japanese Financial System Is Beginning To Spin Wildly Out Of Control. (Thanks to Jim W. for the link.)
Long-term economic implications? Biodiversity Loss Becoming Major Threat For Farmed Plants And Livestock Breeds. (Saving heirloom seed varieties and raising rare livestock breeds is wise and could prove profitable.)