US, China Square Off

We're not the only nation in this world that has economic leverage. In fact, China is developing the capacity to counter US financial interests in its region. This is not so good because the US might not be able invest strategically.

All this means that the US has lost a significant step to China - economically, politically, and strategically - in Southeast Asia's increasingly important strategic theater. All indications are that the region is moving toward more Chinese and less US influence, and as US hegemony gradually comes to an end, so too it seems are Southeast Asia's short-lived experiments with democracy and financial liberalism. (link)

Remember, this is for your consideration when considering how to invest, and is a stark reminder that even if you are out of debt (or on your way there) it is time to start thinking seriously.