Global elections in 2012 and possible investment opportunities

Yahoo ^ | Jan 23, 2012

[yinandyang]

Before the world ends on Dec 21, 2012, a record number of elections will be held globally. Of these, some may provide entertainment with son et lumiere, but few will have financial investment implications. Some of the more important elections this year include:

-snip-

Venezuela Presidential elections. All depends on whether it will be free or not. If Chavez rigs it, he will obviously win, even if felled by cancer. No doubt the good Cuban doctors will miraculously resurrect him. On the other hand, if the opposition wins, expect significant changes, most importantly in the oil sector

-snip-

Russian Presidential elections. It's Putin versus not-Putin. Depends on the level of intimidation and how free the elections are, which means that Putin will probably will win. Expect more of the same - with little global effect. In the rare event an opposition candidate wins without losing members of his/her family or body parts, there still won't be a significant economic effect

-snip-

Communist Party of China's 18th National Congress in 2nd half of 2012. Without a doubt the most important election this year. A new Central Committee and Politburo Standing Committee members will be elected. The current President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao will make way for the next wave of leadership. The "Princelings", the sons and daughters of former Communist chiefs are vying seriously for power. These include Bo Xilai and Xi Jinping, the latter expected to become President.

[yinandyang]

Somewhat cheeky article, but since Xi was in the US recently, thought it worth posting.