In 1785, the US adopted the dollar sign as its official currency. Just three years later, in 1789, the very first dollar bill was issued. By 1791, Alexander Hamilton established the Bank of the United States. For over the last century, the dollar has been a dominant force in international trade. An interesting fact is that […]
Each year, The Economist publishes The World Ahead series: an informed prediction of the major themes that will dominate the coming year. Spanning topics from politics to technology to sociology and more, this series edited by Tom Standage is as ambitious as it is awe-inspiring. On December 8, Standage rejoins the Council to discuss his publication’s analysis for 2026. In conversation […]
Gunboat diplomacy, armed conflict, or all-out regime change? As tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela continue to rachet up, all outcomes and more seem to be on the table. The […]
In his talk, David Firestein will examine how key U.S. assumptions about China and strategic aspirations and intentions have changed over the last ten to fifteen years and analyze and assess the […]
How did Mossad, Israel’s intelligence service, come to be one of the world’s most notorious and prominent players in global intelligence? Just look to Meir Dagan, the Mossad’s former director […]
The U.S. spends nearly a trillion dollars on its military each year, more than any other nation. Is it really keeping us safe? Bill Hartung, author and senior fellow at […]
NEW DATE: February 4th In the decades to come, what will China's role be in the global world order? The relationship with the U.S. has been one of competition but […]
From the Marshall Plan, the Louisiana Purchase, and the creation of the United Nations to the bombing of Nagasaki, Indian Removal Act, and the invasion of Iraq, U.S. foreign policy […]
Competition on critical rare earth minerals has moved to the forefront of the global geopolitical landscape with many policy leaders and industry experts contending that this issue could be the […]
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin along with others interested in geopolitics, political risk, and critical rare earth mineral issues to hear from St. Edwards University students as they […]
With the U.S. and Iran now in open conflict and the world’s energy supply under threat, the stakes could not be higher – or more uncertain. Join us on WorldNow […]
REMs (Rare Earth Minerals) and REEs (Rare Earth Elements) and their role in the global economic system and even national security will be defining issues in the decades ahead. The terms […]
Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global balance of power. What does the AI race mean for security, power, and the world economy? Artificial intelligence is reshaping the global balance of power. Nations are racing for advantage, companies are competing for dominance, and the quest for superintelligence is moving faster than ever. Join us on WorldNow […]
Join the World Affairs Council of Austin for a discussion about Canada’s role in a shifting global landscape. This fireside‑chat–style discussion will explore how Canada is navigating a more fragmented and competitive global environment, while deepening—not retreating from—its economic and strategic relationship with the United States and Mexico. The conversation will connect global geopolitics directly […]
Recent developments in the Middle East have raised important questions about regional stability, international relations, global energy markets, and the broader geopolitical landscape. How might current tensions shape the future […]