This week in Editors’ Picks, we take a look at the recently released NBN cost-benefit analysis, the world economy in maps, Australian university fees, solutions to address unemployment, and the lucrative trade in elite footballers.
NBN Cost Benefit Analysis Find There’s Such A Thing As Too Much Speed – Peter Martin
Martin analyses the findings of the Coalition’s recently released, independent cost benefit review of various NBN plans. Its conclusion, that the previous FTTH model would have costs that far exceeded utility to the tune of $4.7billion, has important ramifications for government policy
38 Maps That Explain The Global Economy – Matthew Yglesias
In a pastiche of visual representations and linkages, Yglesias captures a global economy saturated with commercial interconnectedness. From the staple GDP per capita and unemployment maps, to satellite-captured world light maps, infrastructure development and even alcohol consumption, statistics meets geography in a powerful display.
Leaked Modelling Forecasts Massive Windfalls For Top Unis – Benjamin Preiss and Marc Moncrief
The dynamics of pricing in the tertiary education sector is of particular social, economic and political importance. Preiss and Mocrief dissect the leaked modelling reported which forecasts significant fee increases for prestigious Australian universities. Potential fee structures have implications for course offerings and the rural-urban divide.
Employment Policy and Job Creation – Some Practical Solutions – Jeff Borland, Eva Cox, Richard Holden, David Peetz
A variety of academic viewpoints are collated in response to the vexed issue of unemployment. Following news of an increase in the unemployment in July to 6.4%, the contributors’ suggestions address demand and supply-side solutions, the role of the government and growth.
Football Transfers: How to spend £75m – The Economist
This is an article for loyal sport fans. It provides some merit to the argument that the most skilful players are often irreplaceable, despite prevailing strategic thinking that urges future re-investment of the proceeds from their player-trades. A thorough analysis of the Premier League clubs’ spending on players and changes in points.