![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/Oil price gushers as OPEC brings bulls back into market_thumb90_.jpg)
Oil prices surged dramatically in the last two weeks thanks to OPEC freeze talk, but there's little expectation the cartel will act, especially now that crude is trading 24 percent higher just on hot air.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/The US better take 3 actions soon to avoid recession-Mohamed El-Erian_thumb90_.jpg)
The slow economic growth environment could turn into recession if Washington can't break the political gridlock and step up with meaningful fiscal reform, Allianz Chief Economic Adviser Mohamed El-Erian told CNBC on Wednesday.
DI
VERSIFICATION
Iraq is currently a rentier state. By predominantly relying on petroleum exports, the country has tied its economic livelihood to petroleum. Other states in the region that have continued this status quo have failed to prosper in the continuously changing global economy. An example of a regional neighbor that diversified and found success is the UAE, specifically Dubai.
Part I
As Iraq moves through its next developmental phase following a couple of democratic elections, its economy stands at a pivotal point in time. Its path is clear; it must move towards progress and development. In this endeavor,
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/S-P hits new all-time high Dow briefly up 100 points after Japan election_thumb90_.jpg)
U.S. equities traded higher on Monday as investors cheered an election in Japan and tried to extend a jobs-report rally.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/Oil and gas industry could hire 100000 workers if it can find them 01_thumb90_.png)
The U.S. oil industry will need to hire tens of thousands of workers in the next two and a half years as oil prices recover and drillers stand up rigs, Goldman Sachs projected in a note this week.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/news-2016/smart_thumbs/Big banks dial up buybacks _thumb90_.jpg)
U.S. banks mostly fared well in the annual regulatory exams, which will benefit shareholders next.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/The fear index_thumb90_.jpg)
Even as markets quake, the market's fear index is sighing in relief.
When a 4,000-square-foot space opened up at Town Center Corte Madera, an open-air shopping center near San Francisco, Colliers International had a choice. The brokerage firm could seek out another large tenant to fill the space, or divide it into two less-expensive locations that would be friendlier to small businesses.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/Corte Madera Town Center_thumb90_.jpg)
Corte Madera Town Center
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/UK starts to count_thumb90_.jpg)
Just 24 hours after deciding to quit the European Union, the U.K. is already starting to absorb the financial ramifications of its shock decision.
![](http://ur-mag.com/images/Investment/smart_thumbs/Moving abroad if Trump or Clinton wins - GettyImages_thumb90_.jpg)
The next time you hear people say they'll flee U.S. soil if so-and-so wins the presidential election, ask if they're familiar with the financial life of an expat.