Topic: Michael Froman

Former U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman, now with MasterCard, introduced the term "gated globalization" during a World Economic Forum panel. Froman argued for new global standards for the digital economy and services, suggesting that "limited purpose partnerships" are needed to share data between trusted nations. This initiative aims to move back-office service jobs to international hubs like India through algorithmic office management.

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has forced the cancellation of Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) negotiations in Brussels. EU Trade Commissioner Karel de Gucht received an embarrassing call from U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman confirming the delay. Meanwhile, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) remains on track, potentially facilitating gas exports to Asia.