To what extent is the USA losing its status as a global superpower? Key ideas: United States remains the most powerful country on earth. But power not increased over past year. Fracking meant United States surpassed Saudi Arabia and Russia to become the country with the world’s largest recoverable oil assets. America’s constitutional system, its business-friendly economy, and the innovation of its people are more lasting sources of power. Challenge: The rise of China Challenge: Putin’s Russia Challenge: Overlooked India The String of pearls is a geopolitical theory on potential Chinese intentions in the Indian Ocean region. Notes: Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) Widespread praise for Chinese-built railway in Kenya US GLOBAL INFLUENCE WANING? US Elections hacked?