Multinational companies have always paid careful attention to political risk in the developing world. No surprise there, given the risk premium attached to investment in emerging markets. Western businesses turn for advice to consultancies that keep a watchful eye on alarming developments in far-flung places. There is booming demand for political-risk insurance that can protect companies against shocks, be they coups in Turkey, sanctions against Russia or a debt default by Venezuela. Now, however, firms need to pay the same attention to political risk in the developed world. Here’s why.
Risky business
