Perceptions of the current economic situation around the world are improving slightly this month, with four in 10 respondents rating their national economy as good. The local economy assessment holds steady, as does optimism for the near future.
The great innovation debate - “Nature vs. Nurture” is a debate typically held among psychologists, where one side argues that genetic predisposition (nature) plays a greater role in human personality development and the other side argues that the environment (nurture) has more influence.
An Ipsos poll commissioned by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows strong support among Kazakh citizens for the general direction of policy in this energy-rich Central Asian country.
Despite the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and continuing tensions between Russia and the United States, the global average for national economic assessment remains unchanged for the second month in a row; the local economic assessment average is up one point since last sounding; and the future local average remains unchanged for the fifth straight month.
77% of global citizens concerned that Ebola virus may be transmitted to their country. With 88% awareness of Ebola virus outbreak, 57% say their own health, government and other officials are taking enough precautions and preparations to ensure virus doesn’t come into their country but 43% don’t believe it to be so.
China's automotive components sector is set to achieve annual growth of 20 per cent for the next five years driven by demand for new cars and a growing secondary market. The aftermarket segment will become the main outlet for automotive parts as the average age of vehicles on the road continues to rise and the current total car population has already surpassed 100 million. The counterfeit auto parts market, already the world's largest with a current value of about US$40bn, will only increase as the overall market grows.
Territorial oil disputes, rising fuel prices, nuclear disasters and choking smog levels have brought energy issues sharply into focus in recent years. Opinion polls have highlighted the concerns from all countries about the safety, affordability and sustainable supply of energy.
Host country Brazil (39%) expected to be victorious in the final game of the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Seven in ten (69%) expect Brazil to be a successful host but only one in three (36%) Brazilians agree.
