Alex Brill

Monday, May 20, 2013

Israel’s proposed tax increases jeopardize its record of economic success

Alex Brill | May 9, 2013, 4:51 pm

I wrote recently about the potential negative economic impact of a tax policy change under discussion in Israel: [S]ome Israeli politicians are seeking to increase a preferential corporate rate that benefits export-oriented businesses. To be sure, Israel must make difficult … read more >

Photo Credit: Vassia Atanassova via Wikimedia Commons

Economics

Why bankers shouldn’t put all their eggs in one investment basket

Alex Brill | July 10, 2012, 3:42 pm

When it comes to investing for retirement, most investment advisers emphasize the importance of diversification by repeating the old adage, “Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.” Yesterday, however, it came to light that investment bank employees had … read more >

Economics, Regulation

Senate transportation bill opens door to more bailouts

Alex Brill | April 27, 2012, 10:01 am

House and Senate conferees will meet on May 8 to iron out differences between the two chambers’ versions of the highway reauthorization bill. In addition to the transportation policy under debate, the 47 Senate and House members serving on the … read more >

Economics

House conservatives’ new emphasis on economic growth

Alex Brill | January 6, 2012, 1:03 pm

You can’t turn around these days without bumping into public resentment against Congress. The legislative branch’s approval rating is at an all-time low at 11 percent. Voter displeasure is not unfounded. Facing a divided government and vastly disparate visions for … read more >

Economics, Taxes and Spending

Tax reform: Legislating vs. campaigning

Alex Brill | October 28, 2011, 1:26 pm

Bold tax reforms are popping up everywhere these days, from presidential candidates and members of Congress alike. A comparison of the plans highlights the stark difference between campaigning and legislating. First, let’s look at some campaign proposals. Herman Cain’s surge … read more >

Lean In… to Government?
Sheryl Sandberg's runaway best-selling book Lean In has managed to offend both the Left and the Right. Sandberg touts female hard-headedness, yet also calls for an elaborate government- and employer-supplied support system for women. […]
Are American Voters Racist?
Racial prejudice plays a very small role in American politics, but a highly disciplined sense of self-interest on the part of one group may play a very large role in the way the federal government functions. […]
The Perpetual Passion for Paper
Paper is becoming less important in some respects, but its strengths — prestige, utility, permanence, and security — are more essential than ever. […]
Could California Make a Comeback?
An unexpected glimmer of hope might cast a new light on the Golden State. […]