The snow packed resort town of Davos, high in the Swiss Alps, is playing host to more than 2,500 top bosses and leading politicians for the 40th World Economic Forum.

Generally an opportunity for international “movers and shakers” to network with like minded people, this year the confidence that power exudes may be a little more diluted.

Things haven’t got off to a good start for those taking care of security which at this event is always complex at the best of times.

The police commander in charge was found dead in his hotel yesterday. It’s thought Markus Reinhart committed suicide.

Davos, however, is more than just a talking shop, it is a barometer of the global economy.
For years Western economies have lead the way – today the balance of power has changed and representatives of seven of the largest emerging economies including China and India are in town.

But while leaders enjoy the Swiss snowy climate – over in Brazil the antithesis of Davos is being held.

Tens of thousands of leftist supporters have kicked off five days of protesting against unfettered capitalism at the 10th staging of the World Social Forum.

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