Global trends - near and far

Pandemic aftermath, invasion of Ukraine, worries in Taiwan, gas pipeline murder mystery,
energy crisis, British pension funds getting bailed out, heat waves all over Europe, rising inflation - what's not to dislike? Where's China at, financially? Do they care about finances in the same way?

Other news: Moon is apparently a hot topic again, plans are to build a permanent base there, first succeeded experiments on growing plans in Moon soil has been done. As an extension, Mars is next? If our population moves to another planet, who will go, who will be left behind and whats the reason behind the move?

Let's discuss the happenings of today, the mechanics behind them and how they affect us now and in the near and far future. What's caused this? Where are we today, in 2 years, in 10, 20 or even 50 years?

Lots of coffee and deep thoughts, but not too serious, more important to have fun than being right