Free trade advocates might still be running the show, but that's hardly a guarantee of smooth sailing for global markets. The world economy faces mounting headwinds—geopolitical tensions, trade uncertainties, and shifting policy landscapes all threaten stability. Even with proponents of open markets holding influence, we're seeing fragmentation accelerate across key sectors. Supply chains remain fragile, tariff risks loom, and synchronized growth is nowhere to be found. For traders and investors navigating this environment, relying solely on traditional free trade narratives feels increasingly risky. The real question isn't whether free trade survives—it's whether it can deliver the prosperity we've come to expect.