BRIC

choi

Min Zeng, Our Chat With the 'BRIC' Builder. Famed economist Jim O'Neill spotted the enormous potential of four developing countries. So where are the next big hits?  WSJ Money, Spring 2013 (coming with Wall Street Journal, Mar 9, 2013).
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB ... 14350705850898.html

Quote:

"Q: Why is Russia a laggard among the BRICs?

"A: Russia has the weakest demographics. It is also the most dependent on energy production. I think it is quite possible oil prices have peaked and that the commodity super cycle is coming to an end. Since 2000, oil prices have basically risen, though the absolute peak was in 2008. I have been saying all year that investors should be bearish on oil, and I continue to think so.

My comment:
(a) There is no need to read the rest of the text, which is familiar. About Russia's demographics, which is not going to turn around soon. Does that mean Russia is doomed, much like Japan?
(b) Do view the graphic. Russia's GDP growth in the past 11 years (537%) is as impressive as that of China (523%). Particularly considering China has raised its GDP (about) four times retroactively in that period--citing data corrections.