Newsletter

Newsletter - Week of Dec 11, 2023

Hi All,

This week's theme is RENEWAL & GROWTH. As the crisp air ushers in the festive season, it's that special time of the year again – a time for reflection, celebration, and heartfelt reunions. As we gather with our loved ones, embracing the joy and warmth of the holiday spirit, I also want to encourage you to look out for your neighbors (both people and animals) who might be alone or facing tough times during this season. A small, kind smile could brighten their day significantly.

For your reflection and goal setting, I've compiled some tools (#WheelofLife) from life/executive/performance coaches that might be useful for setting your goals in 2024. You can find them below under 'Conscious Living'.

🙌 As always let me know if you have any suggestions and/or feedback! If you liked it, please subscribe and share it with your friends, colleagues and family. Also, ping me if you want to collaborate or share some articles for the newsletter! Previous newsletters can be found here.

In the spirit of December, here is a humor skit on #EOD! :) - "I thought December was optional..."

@krianbearney
I thought December was optional #whereiskate #freebrian #workhumor
♬ original sound - KrianBearney

📈Markets & Investing

My weekly global market recap can be found here. Last week's key events: In a week of mixed global market movements, Europe saw varied central bank actions (the ECB left its record-high deposit rate unchanged at 4% but adjusted down inflation and growth projections, the BOE maintained its rate (5.25%), and Norges Bank raised rates in Norway (4.25%), while the Swiss National Bank kept rates (1.75%) steady and lowered inflation forecasts) and modest STOXX Europe 600 growth, while the U.S. experienced record highs and signs of easing inflation (Core consumer price inflation remained at 4.0%, while core producer price inflation fell to 2.0%, and the Fed signaled a potential total of 75 bps in rate cuts for 2024.), and Japan's markets were buoyed by the U.S. Federal Reserve's policy shift. In contrast, Chinese equities declined amid deflationary pressures, despite the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index's rise.

🌍 Sustainability

COP28 Key Takeaways:

Ambitious Goals with Implementation Challenges: COP28 concluded with a historic decision to transition away from fossil fuels. However, the agreement lacked specific commitments for a full phase-out of fossil fuels. This shift in global climate diplomacy is significant, even though it stops short of explicitly calling for a complete end to fossil fuel use. The agreement underlines the need for "deep, rapid, and sustained reductions" in emissions to stay within the 1.5°C warming threshold of the Paris Agreement.
Global Stocktake and Emission Reductions: The first Global Stocktake (GST) at COP28 revealed that the world is off track in meeting the 1.5°C goal. Current national commitments are inadequate, with projections showing only a 14% reduction in emissions by 2030 compared to the necessary 42% reduction. This outcome serves as a critical reminder of the urgency for increased global climate action.
Financial Challenges for Developing Countries: A significant issue discussed was the financial strain on developing countries in transitioning to renewable energy sources and adapting to climate impacts. Annual clean energy investments need to more than triple to USD 2.8 trillion by the early 2030s to meet Paris Agreement goals. However, the current financial support is far below what is required, and the existing goal of providing USD 100 billion per year in climate finance to developing countries has not been met.
Controversies and Highlights: The summit faced controversies, including accusations against the COP28 president of denying climate science and pressure from OPEC countries. Despite these issues, the summit saw several important initiatives, such as the Global Cooling Pledge and the Global Electric Cooking Coalition, aimed at reducing emissions in specific sectors.
Renewable Energy and Efficiency: A key outcome was the call for tripling renewable energy capacity globally and doubling the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements by 2030. These targets are crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and meeting climate goals.
Future Directions and COP29: Looking ahead, Azerbaijan will host COP29 in 2024. The decisions and actions at COP28 set a precedent for future COPs, highlighting both the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead, especially in terms of fully transitioning away from fossil fuels and adequately financing climate action in developing countries.

🧘🏽 Conscious living

Wheel of life: What are you most grateful for in 2023? What are you most excited about in 2024? In the spirit of renewal and growth, I’m excited to share with you some tools for goal-setting in 2024. I found these tools during the pandemic soul searching. These resources are designed to help you articulate and achieve your aspirations, whether they’re personal, professional, or a mix of both. From practical tips on crafting achievable goals to innovative strategies to keep you motivated throughout the year, these tools are here to guide you on your journey to success in the new year.

So, grab a cup of your favorite winter beverage, settle in, and let's dive into the world of effective goal-setting. Here's to making 2024 a year of remarkable achievements and fulfilled dreams!

😍 My Favorites

📚 Eudaimonia Book Club: Do you believe in the power of visualization and manifestation? This classic book, endorsed by renowned figures like Tony Robbins and Rhonda Byrne, explores these concepts deeply. Initially skeptical, especially of 'get rich quick' ideologies, I was persuaded to read it by a mentor who remarkably turned her business failure + $1 million debt into a $300 million global franchise empire in 5 years. Surprisingly, the book's insightful content and practical framework surpassed many others I've read in this genre. It uniquely explains the phenomenon behind 'The Secret.' I found it truly enlightening and hope you do too!

🎵 Music: This week's recommendations come from my sister. I've been living away from my family for 20 years since high school (#expat), and there is nothing like simple and mundane daily things I long for like watching TV as a family in the living room. What started as a review of my sister's favorite shows - 'Rise of Empires: Ottoman' and 'The Magnificent Century' - turned into binge-watching Beyonce's Super Bowl Halftime show and Michael Jackson's 'Heal the World.' Don't ask me how we got there, and yes, my dad ended up walking away. Sharing one with you all. Hope you get to see one of these with your loved ones in a cozy living room during this holiday season! Let us know which one you liked!

🎥Movie: Home Alone 1. The classic. Which holiday season movie gets you into the rhythm of the holidays? I didn't think I had one until watching 'Home Alone 1' again at a theater; I realized it might just be mine. This movie may fill your heart with a warm, fuzzy feeling.

📺 TV Show: Veep. If you want a sneak peek into American politics with a pinch of sarcasm and humor, this is the right show for you!

🎄Christmas Light Walk route map for London (2023): If you are in London around this time, I highly recommend you check out the Christmas Lights! It's a fun group exercise to do with your family and friends. I was debating to go, but tagged along with my US university alumni group in London, and enjoyed every minute of it. Try for yourself as well - you won't regret it!

Some maps for inspiration: