Latin America's abundance of lithium and its potential role in the commodities boom. Volkswagen's vulnerability in the changing car industry. The rise of women's football in Britain and its implications for the sport. Challenges faced by the German car industry and the fear of obsolescence. The importance of grassroots football in promoting women's football in England.
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Quick takeaways
Latin America is well-positioned to benefit from the global commodity boom, thanks to its abundant reserves of critical minerals and metals like copper and lithium.
Germany's car industry must adapt and diversify to meet the challenges of electrification, software integration in cars, and competition from China's car market.
Deep dives
Latin America's Role in the Global Commodity Boom
Latin America is positioned to benefit from the global commodity boom due to factors such as the green transition, increasing demand for metals and minerals, and geopolitical tensions between China and the US. The region has abundant reserves of critical minerals and metals like copper and lithium, as well as large tracts of farmland. Latin America's proximity to demand centers and relatively low extraction costs make it an attractive investment destination. However, challenges remain, including environmental concerns, regulatory uncertainties, and the need for infrastructure development.
The Challenges Faced by Germany's Car Industry
Germany's car industry is undergoing significant transitions, including electrification and the integration of software in cars. Additionally, the industry is confronting challenges from China's growing car market and competition from Chinese car companies. While the industry is not currently in danger of collapsing, it faces the risk of losing market share and struggling to adapt to these transformations. The implications extend beyond direct employment, impacting regional economies, industrial relations, and Germany's national identity. Germany must diversify its economy and institutions to thrive amidst these changes.
The Rise of Women's Football in Britain
Women's football in Britain has experienced a transformative shift, supported by the success of the England women's team. Despite historical barriers and discrimination, attitudes towards women's football are evolving rapidly. Increased investment, rising viewership, and growth at the grassroots level indicate a positive trajectory. However, challenges persist, such as retaining girls' interest in football during puberty, ensuring diversity and inclusivity in the sport, and addressing the lack of playing opportunities for competitive girls' teams. Continued investment and changes in perception are crucial to sustain and expand the growth of women's football in Britain.
The region is home to most of the world’s known lithium. Given the mineral’s usefulness in batteries and electric vehicles, could it be on the cusp of a commodities boom? Germany’s auto industry is at risk. Volkswagen, one of its biggest carmakers, should be worried (10:27). And, England’s World Cup successes could change the face of women’s football (18:06).
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer
Runtime: 24 min
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