This series spans the globe presenting leading research in economics. It is perhaps a sign of the times that economic weapons such as sanctions seem to be as powerful as or more so than tanks. International applications and examples of economic progress are invaluable in a troubled world with economic booms bursting like so many penny balloons. Globalization presents economic issues of concern to millions. Topics discussed herein include capital mobility in emerging Asia; microfinance; economic governance; business intelligence; and entrepreneurship.