South County Mail

Missouri and the World

Economy

Even major oil producers are preparing for a post-oil future

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The decision by the United Arab Emirates to leave OPEC after nearly six decades may signal more than a disagreement over production quotas.

According to a new analysis published by The Conversation, the move reflects growing concern among some major oil-producing countries that the long-term future of global oil demand may be weaker than previously expected.

The UAE officially announced its departure from OPEC after 59 years amid rising geopolitical tensions, disagreements over production strategy and accelerating changes in the global energy market. [Read more…] about Even major oil producers are preparing for a post-oil future

‘Friendshoring’ could become the next phase of globalization

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As tensions between the United States and China continue reshaping the global economy, economists and policymakers are increasingly focusing on a new concept that could define the next era of international trade: “friendshoring”.

Rather than bringing manufacturing fully back home, countries and multinational corporations may instead shift production and investment toward politically friendly nations.

A new analysis published by The Conversation argues that friendshoring may allow globalization to continue in a different form, even as trade between the world’s two largest economies becomes more strained. [Read more…] about ‘Friendshoring’ could become the next phase of globalization

Can Brazil become America’s most important partner in South America?

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Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva traveled to Washington last week for a closely watched meeting with US President Donald Trump, as both countries attempt to stabilize a relationship shaped increasingly by trade, strategic minerals, organized crime and growing geopolitical competition in Latin America.

The private talks at the White House lasted about three hours on May 7, although neither side issued a formal joint statement afterward.

Despite political differences between the two leaders, the meeting highlighted what analysts increasingly see as a pragmatic shift in US-Brazil relations, driven less by ideology and more by economic and strategic interests. [Read more…] about Can Brazil become America’s most important partner in South America?

RI Mining Launches New Green XRP & ETH Cloud Mining Contracts — Earn $10,000 a Day and Start Your Journey to Passive Income

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Global cloud mining leader RI Mining has officially announced the launch of its new green XRP and ETH cloud mining contracts, opening the door for investors worldwide to a world where making money is simple and income flows automatically.

Powered by clean energy, this innovative product eliminates the high energy consumption typical of traditional mining, allowing users to earn up to $10,000 per day while supporting sustainability — a true dream come true for anyone who wants to earn while they rest. [Read more…] about RI Mining Launches New Green XRP & ETH Cloud Mining Contracts — Earn $10,000 a Day and Start Your Journey to Passive Income

Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs

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Automation is rapidly transforming Missouri’s manufacturing sector, reshaping job roles, enhancing productivity, and attracting significant investments.

Here’s an in-depth look at how automation is influencing the state’s industrial landscape. [Read more…] about Inside Missouri’s factories: How automation is transforming manufacturing jobs

How automation is changing jobs in South County and across Missouri

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Automation is quietly but steadily transforming the job landscape across Missouri – from advanced manufacturing plants in suburban South County to sheltered workshops in rural communities.

While much of the national debate focuses on whether robots will take people’s jobs, the reality in Missouri is more complex: some roles are being displaced, but others are being created, and entire industries are being reshaped. [Read more…] about How automation is changing jobs in South County and across Missouri

How AI is reshaping Missouri’s jobs market

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Missouri, the 19th most populous state in the US, boasts a population of approximately 6.28 million as of 2025. The state’s largest cities include Kansas City (510,704 residents), St. Louis (281,754), Springfield (170,188), and Columbia (129,330).

Economically, Missouri is diverse, with key industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and technology. [Read more…] about How AI is reshaping Missouri’s jobs market

John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility

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John Deere, the world’s largest agricultural vehicles manufacturer, is investing $13.5 million to expand its Strafford, Missouri “remanufacturing” facility by 120,000 square feet.

Kevin Schrag, the factory manager, sums it up perfectly: “That’s a pretty big deal!” [Read more…] about John Deere invests $13.5 million in Strafford, Missouri facility

How and why Missouri and America is grappling with a labor shortage

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Missouri’s economy, like much of the United States, is at a crossroads. On one hand, job openings abound in nearly every industry.

On the other, businesses – from farms to factories – are struggling to find enough people willing to work. The result is a paradox that’s defining the post-pandemic era: a labor shortage in the midst of economic opportunity. [Read more…] about How and why Missouri and America is grappling with a labor shortage

Missouri at risk: How Trump’s tariffs could hit farming, manufacturing, and logistics

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By South County Mail Staff Writer

As global markets continue to tumble in the wake of former President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs, industries across Missouri – from soybean fields to factory floors – are bracing for impact.

The tariffs, which have triggered retaliation from key trading partners like China and the European Union, are expected to hit especially hard in states like Missouri that rely heavily on exports, manufacturing supply chains, and freight logistics. [Read more…] about Missouri at risk: How Trump’s tariffs could hit farming, manufacturing, and logistics