The inability to input and produce parts generated fewer overall products for 2022. This was reflected in about 13.9 million new cars and trucks as the year ended.

A cut of 2 million oil barrels per day resulted from Russian-led allies, a move that caused already high prices to rise further. This results from Russian pressure on fellow members of the 23-member group known as OPEC.

While the Russo/Ukraine war has put Europe into an energy hassle never before seen, Russia is putting a squeeze on Europe’s NATO group due to its siding with the Ukrainians.

The PVF industry, unlike many manufacturing sectors, demands industry experience of its leaders. Much of the sector’s success is attributed to that experience. Also, rising inflation brings recession to the mind of the Federal Reserve and its chairman.

As inflation causes food, housing and other costs to rise, the fear of recession rears its head.

While low wages have increased at a lesser pace in recent months, inflation seems to have dug in more socially, while the relevant match in personal value to workers seems on a downward track.

As electric vehicle demand increases in the United States, the material used to make the batteries for these vehicles is in short supply. 

Commodity prices are rising everywhere, sure to continue as the tragic Ukraine war rages on. China’s support of Russia does not bode well for the United States. 

This month’s Beschloss Perspective weighs in on the Biden administration’s rejection of attempts to expand U.S. oil and gas production, the economic power of corporate dividends, the use of digital currency, and the Russia/China alliance.

U.S. payrolls expanded by 467,000 in January 2022, far more than first predicted, as wages climbed by 5.7 percent.