Economics
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Muscle display
The fitness industry appears to be outrunning the economic downturn. At the Fibo trade show in Essen in April, optimism was high – and so was the number of million-euro equipment deals.
Field trip
Some smaller initiatives have gone beneath the radar. In Japan, a scheme to encourage jobless young citizens to move from town to work the land could be a global template for rural living.
Yes we Khan
Rich in raw materials and oil reserves, Mongolia finds its neighbour China is a key customer. The capital, Ulan Bator, is flourishing, but the country must still overcome poverty and corruption to prosper.
Observation
As Lebanon prepares for elections, the wider picture looks rosy. The country is reeling back its skilled workforce from Dubai and tourism could rise if it capitalises on its unique character.
Friends in the north
At the tip of North Africa, a short hop from Sicily, the city of Tunis is enjoying its time in the sun, benefiting from an influx of foreign business and investment.
The Full Monte
In Montevideo, Uruguay, multinational companies are setting up shop and property is cheap. But can the city attract a new generation of global entrepreneurs to secure its future as an investment hub?
Business
Psychotherapy vouchers for French workers, an interview with Iceland's "minister of ideas", and why renewables are an attractive investment in hard times.
Mine field
Wars and volcanoes have made Goma a dangerous place to call home. But with fragile peace in the DR Congo, traders and pilots are arriving, lured by the region’s vast mineral wealth.
What crisis?
While Wall Street sweats, some businesses are thriving. From Beirut bankers to London publishers, Monocle looks at the firms bucking the market and finding new opportunities during the economic crisis.
Peace and prosperity
While Mosul burns, Arbil booms: Iraqi Kurdistan's capital courts Western business, oil money and $110,000 cars, proving that autonomy, security and ancient trading instincts still pay dividends.
