A couple of weeks ago, I sent an email about the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Panama.

I off-handedly mentioned that “I don’t follow U.S. politics too closely…”

I received some pushback on this, with some people asking why I’m commenting on matters like these if I don’t follow politics. 

So, let’s clarify something— I don’t follow the domestic politics of the United States, or really any country other than a bit about Panama, where I live and am in the process of becoming a citizen.  

I don’t waste my time with the endless infighting between senators, governors, or whatever nonsense the media is pushing people to get hyped up about. 

What I am very well versed in is international politics - otherwise known as geopolitics. 

This is an area that - especially considering my work as an expat consultant - I have been following very closely for many, many years.

The key distinction? 

Geopolitics isn’t about one country’s petty political battles. 

It’s about how nations interact, negotiate, and maneuver on the global stage—the things that actually shape economies, trade, war, and personal freedoms.

So, when I comment on Trump, for example, I’m not referring to his domestic policies in the United States. 

I don’t care about his domestic tax plans, Supreme Court picks, what porn stars he didn’t (or did) sleep with, or whatever culture war battle is trending on social media.

My American friends and clients certainly have their opinions on many of these matters, but as a Canadian expat living in Panama, I simply have no dog in these fights. 

What I am concerned with is what he does on the world stage—how he’s dealing with China, Russia, the Middle East, NATO, etc.

Because that is what affects the entire world, including the people I help—expats, investors, and those looking to build a Plan-B outside their home country.

It’s the same reason I don’t do domestic tax planning—someone else can help you write off your gas receipts. That’s between you and your local accountant. 

However, international tax planning—offshore trusts, residencies, asset protection, etc.- is a key part of my business. 

The areas I specialize in are all affected by the geopolitical winds, and unlike most “experts” who simply regurgitate someone else’s blog posts, I do my own research.

I watch local news from around the world, speak with people who are actually on the ground, and often personally know many of the key players in these global discussions.

So, no, I don’t follow domestic politics.

But geopolitics? That’s essential—and if you care about your wealth, freedom, and future, it should be on your radar, too.

Speak soon,

Mikkel

P.S. The Wealth, Freedom, and Passports Conference is less than a month away, right here in Panama City from March 14-15. VIP tickets are sold out, but you can still get a general admission ticket and join us. The whole event wraps up with my 42nd birthday party with tons of food, drinks, and a live band - it’s going to be a blast! Get your tickets at expatmoney.com/conference.

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