Episode Details

China continues to make the most of its near-monopoly on rare earth minerals and magnets - now it is telling businesses they are not allowed to build up a reserve or stockpile. If China suspects them of doing so, they will have their supplies slashed. This is an indicator that Xi Jinping has been emboldened by President Trump's attempts to extort the entire world, and is seeking short-term advantage by making the most of its current stranglehold. While all the drama is happening in Alaska, this is the quieter, but more steady, story about the current power play shaping our world. Let's discuss.