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Check FAQAbout Adam
Adam Ragozzino is a multifaceted journalist and Principal Analyst at Informa Tech Automotive Group, where he specializes in the automotive industry, particularly the advancements in electric vehicle batteries and electric powertrains. His analytical work involves dissecting events and technological innovations, providing insights into their significance and forecasting future trends. Ragozzino's latest project focuses on battery chemistry trends, a critical aspect of the evolving electric vehicle market. In the realm of journalism, Ragozzino has established himself as an expert on international relations, political instability, and public health. He has extensively covered the political dynamics in West Africa, offering in-depth analysis on the political unrest in Cote d’Ivoire, including President Alassane Dramane Ouattara's controversial third-term bid, and the history of coups in Mali. His reporting underscores the importance of democratic institutions and the regional and global implications of instability, such as France's military involvement in the Sahel region and the challenges of combating violent extremism. Beyond his focus on Africa, Ragozzino has critically examined the US political landscape, addressing claims of electoral fraud, the Capitol attack, and former President Trump's influence on the Republican Party. His investigative prowess is further demonstrated in his work on the FinCEN files leak, where he has shed light on financial crimes and corruption. Additionally, his coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the situation in Massachusetts and underscored the critical role of public health measures. Through his diverse body of work, Ragozzino continues to challenge misconceptions and highlight the interconnectedness of global security, economy, and technological progress.
English
Business
Fact Checking
Portfolio
Burkina Faso’s Elections Continue Without The People
Burkina Faso's elections are set for November 22nd, but ongoing violence from extremist groups has triggered a law allowing elections to proceed under exceptional circumstances. This situation raises concerns about the legitimacy and inclusiveness of the electoral process.
Dealers are Stayin’ Alive as Retail Continues to Shift
The article discusses the challenges and strategies for automotive dealers in Canada, emphasizing the importance of localized vehicle maintenance recommendations and data-driven inventory management. It highlights the discontinuation of Kleenex in Canada as an analogy for the small market size and the need for tailored dealer recommendations. The text promotes tools like SmartVMA and Solera's inventory tool for maximizing dealer profits and efficiency, while criticizing the velocity method used by other inventory tools. The importance of data analysis and technology in making informed decisions in the automotive industry is underscored.
HMMA, a Proving Ground for BEV Production
Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) has begun producing the electrified version of the GV70 CUV for the Genesis brand, marking the first time an all-electric Genesis model is built in the U.S. The move aligns with Hyundai's commitment to electrification and the American market. The facility aims to produce 100,000 units by 2025, starting with about 15 units per day. HMMA is balancing the scale-up of the electrified-vehicle business with the profitability of internal combustion engines, while also preparing for an all-electric future by 2030. The plant features a flexible manufacturing line with automation and aims to maintain high-quality standards. The Electrified GV70 qualifies for Inflation Reduction Act tax incentives, and Genesis plans to electrify all new vehicles by 2025 and produce only BEVs by 2030.
Chinese EV Makers Going Global
China's automotive sector is facing challenges due to COVID-19, with production and sales declining since August. The industry is described as in a critical transformation phase, with policy intervention recommended to encourage sales of traditional fuel vehicles. Despite domestic slowdowns, Chinese NEV makers are expanding globally, with exports growing 86% in the first 12 months of the year. Europe and Asia Pacific are the main regions for these exports. The luxury-vehicle sector in China is growing, with BYD planning to launch a new luxury electric SUV, Yangwang, in Q1 next year. President Xi Jinping has been relaxing the zero-COVID policy, leading to a rapid spread of the disease, with vaccination rates low among the elderly.
Hundreds of Nigerian Students Kidnapped… Again: Is Nigeria a Failed State?
In Nigeria, a recent kidnapping of 317 girls from a school in Jangebe, Zamfara state, marks the continuation of a disturbing trend of mass abductions. The Nigerian military's failure to protect the school, despite its presence, highlights broader security issues in the country. Boko Haram and other criminal gangs exploit porous borders and weak maritime security to perpetuate violence and kidnappings. The government's inability to effectively counter these threats has led to closures of boarding schools and increased inter-ethnic violence. Despite Nigeria's economic growth and potential, the persistent security challenges undermine its stability and development. The government's reliance on military solutions and lack of effective leadership exacerbate the situation. With President Buhari's term ending in 2023, there is limited time to address these complex issues.
Senegal Protests: Is Sahel Instability Expanding?
Protests erupted in Senegal following the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, who faces charges of rape and disturbing public order. The government blames Sonko for the clashes, which resulted in at least eight deaths. Sonko's supporters claim the charges are politically motivated, drawing parallels to past incidents involving President Macky Sall's rivals. The unrest reflects broader regional issues of political instability, poor governance, and economic inequality. The article suggests that without significant political and economic reforms, sporadic violent protests are likely to continue in Senegal and across West Africa.
Is Nigeria at Risk of Becoming a Failed State?
Nigeria faces significant security challenges, including kidnappings by Boko Haram and criminal gangs, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and inter-ethnic violence. The government's inability to protect citizens and control borders exacerbates these issues. Despite these challenges, Nigeria remains Africa's largest economy with a growing tech sector and untapped natural resources. The article suggests that improving military coordination and accountability is crucial for stabilizing the country and fostering development.
It’s easy to forget the world is still connected. But we ignore it at our own peril
The article discusses the importance of Africa to the United States, debunking myths about the continent's irrelevance to US security, corruption, danger, and disconnection from the global economy. It highlights Africa's strategic significance due to its natural resources, including strategic metals and its pivotal role in global shipping through key maritime choke points. The article also emphasizes Africa's growing influence in the UN and the potential security threats in the Sahel region. It challenges the perception of Africa as corrupt and dangerous by citing improvements in governance and peace in several countries. The article further illustrates Africa's integration into the world through mobile technology and digital payments, and the economic ties between US cities and African countries. It concludes by stressing the diversity of Africa and the need to understand its individual nations, promising future articles on West African countries' economic recovery and international relations.
France Looks for an Exit from the Sahel Ahead of the Presidential Election
France is considering a military withdrawal from the Sahel region ahead of the presidential election. President Macron plans to withdraw 600 troops and possibly reduce troop levels further. The region has seen a rise in violent extremist organizations and anti-French sentiment, with France suffering casualties recently. The G5 Sahel Force, a regional joint force, remains unprepared, lacking training, funding, and intelligence capabilities. Despite international military and economic efforts, including a significant presence by France and the UN, extremist groups have adapted and grown. The article suggests that the Sahel's problems are complex, involving governance, resource access, economics, security, and social issues. It argues that a successful strategy will require time, resources, coordination, and the local governments' will. The international community, including France, is expected to remain involved in the region's security for the foreseeable future.
Trump’s Election Fraud Conspiracy: A Method Behind The Madness -
The article discusses the political motivations behind the claims of a 'stolen' election, which culminated in the attack on the Capitol. It criticizes President Trump and his supporters for spreading conspiracy theories and disinformation, leading to violence and deaths. The article outlines the process of election certification and the unlikely success of challenges to it. It also explores the potential disenfranchisement of Democratic voters and the fracture within the Republican Party, suggesting the rise of a far-right faction. The author reflects on Trump's history of questioning election legitimacy and the possible emergence of a new far-right political party. The article concludes with the assertion that Trump should be held accountable for his actions, and it speculates on the future political landscape without him.
What We Missed in 2020: The FinCEN Files Didn’t Make a Ripple in a Pond Roiling with News -
The article discusses the leak of the FinCEN files, which are a collection of suspicious activity reports (SARs) that suggest widespread money laundering and other financial crimes. These files were leaked to Buzz Feed News and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and cover transactions across 170 countries from 1999 to 2017, totaling over US$2 trillion. The article highlights the lack of action taken by financial institutions and the US government despite the filing of SARs, which are meant to signal potentially illegal activity. The impact of such corruption is discussed, particularly in relation to the global economy and specifically on Africa, which loses US$140B annually due to corruption. The article also touches on the recent changes in financial reporting regulations and the passing of the Corporate Transparency Act in the US, which aims to combat money laundering by identifying beneficial owners of reporting companies.
Burkina Faso’s Elections to Proceed Without the People
Burkina Faso's upcoming elections on November 22nd are marred by changes to the electoral code that could lead to the disenfranchisement of over 400,000 voters due to 'force majeure' conditions, disproportionately benefiting the incumbent president and undermining the election's legitimacy. The government's actions, including the prohibition of consular cards for voter registration, are seen as part of a regional trend of incumbents manipulating political systems to retain power. These changes risk aggravating ethnic tensions and conflict, particularly between the Fulani and Mossi communities, and raise questions about President Kaboré's willingness to secure a second term. The situation reflects broader issues of weak security, porous borders, and poor governance that have allowed extremist groups to gain a foothold in the country.
Burkina Faso’s Elections to Proceed, Votes or No Votes
Burkina Faso's upcoming elections are set to proceed despite significant violence and changes to the electoral code that disproportionately benefit the incumbent President Kaboré. The new rules, which allow elections to continue even if some areas cannot vote due to 'force majeure,' disenfranchise over 400,000 voters, mainly from rural areas. This change, along with the prohibition of consular cards for voter registration, is seen as part of a broader pattern of political manipulation in West Africa. The article highlights the potential for increased ethnic divisions and future conflict, drawing parallels with similar situations in Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea, and Mali.
Ivory Coast Election Is Heading Off the Rails
Cote d’Ivoire is facing political instability as President Alassane Dramane Ouattara seeks a controversial third term following the death of his chosen successor and amidst allegations against another potential candidate. This has led to protests and violent repression. Opposition parties, led by former president Henri Konan Bédié, are demanding reforms and Ouattara's withdrawal, creating a deadlock. The Constitutional Council's approval of only 3 out of 44 candidates, the economic downturn due to COVID-19, and the threat from violent extremist organizations further complicate the situation. The international community's response to Ouattara's actions could set a precedent for other African leaders. The upcoming election is fraught with challenges, including accusations of bias against the electoral commission and increasing authoritarianism from Ouattara's administration.
FeedSpot’s Top 50 Geopolitics Blog List
The article discusses the history of coups in Mali since its independence in 1960, highlighting four major coups that have occurred. The first coup in 1968 ousted President Modibo Kieta and was led by Lieutenant Moussa Traoré, who failed to hold promised democratic elections and ruled until 1991. The second coup in 1991, led by Lieutenant Colonel Amadou Toumani Touré, resulted in Mali's first democratic elections since the 1960s. The third coup in 2012, led by Captain Amadou Sanogo, resulted in sanctions from ECOWAS and the loss of northern Mali to Tuareg rebels. The article emphasizes the need for Mali to establish strong democratic institutions, adhere to the rule of law, and provide basic services and security to prevent jihadist advances. It also notes the regional implications of instability in Mali, as neighboring countries use resources to stabilize the area and maintain security.
COVID-19 Cases in Massachusetts Are About To Spike: Here’s Why -
The article discusses the COVID-19 situation in Massachusetts, highlighting the state's efforts to combat the virus and the challenges it faces. It notes that the average number of new confirmed cases has plateaued, and there is concern about a potential spike following the 4th of July holiday and the move into phase three of reopening. The article also touches on the airborne nature of the virus and the concept of 'superspreaders.' It emphasizes the importance of wearing masks and following guidelines to prevent a resurgence of cases, as seen in California. The author criticizes the lack of vigilance in some residents and cites various sources, including public health experts and politicians, to underscore the seriousness of the pandemic and the need for collective action to prevent further lockdowns.
High Risk, No Reward
The U.S. Navy conducted freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea, which China claims violates its sovereignty. The People's Liberation Army alleged it expelled the USS Barry, a claim the U.S. Navy denies. Tensions are heightened by the proximity of military units, China's growing military capabilities, and the global context of a pandemic and recession. The situation calls for careful consideration of policies that maintain global order, with emphasis on diplomacy and multilateral solutions.
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