The conflict between Russia and Georgia became quite a controversial topic this week. Strong support has been voiced for both sides, and many have begun to question the United States’ involvement (or lack thereof).

We made sure to examine the situation — as well as the current state of Japan’s economy, the IPO market and the energy crisis — to help you make the most of these troubling times. Here’s this week’s wrap-up.

From South Ossetia with Love

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Here’s How to Bank on Japan’s Recession

Japan has conceded that its economy is “sort of in recession,” making it the fourth G8 member with a full quarter of “proto-recession” under their collective belt. The cold, hard fact is the Japanese market is stuck in long-term, mid-term and short-term down cycles. But there’s a way to make 82% while the Japanese government lets that sink in.

Read the full article here.

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Why the IPO Market Could Be Set to Explode

Things may look very still and calm from the outside; but on the inside, the pressure is rising and rising. It’s only a matter of time before something bursts. We discuss the hidden “pressure forces” building up in the new-issues market.

Read the full article here.

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The Energy Cold War, Part I: Seeing Through Russian Eyes

Russia looks intent on kicking off a new cold war. But unlike the 20th century, this cold war will revolve around energy instead of nukes. This conflict could have long-term implications for gas and oil, particularly LNG (liquefied natural gas). In Part I of our two-part discussion, we touch on Russian motives and perspectives.

Read the full article here.

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Sunny, 80 Degrees and Gorgeous. Time to Go Long Heating Oil!

Is our national nightmare finally over? The American Automobile Association tells us the average price at the pump is down some 40 cents to a mere $3.17 per gallon. What’s more, crude futures for September delivery are down to a paltry $112.93 a barrel. But before you completely write off this whole “oil spike” episode, you might want to think things through a bit…

Read the full article here.

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The New Energy Cold War, Part II: Missiles and Mafioso

We continue our coverage on the current state of Russian affairs by answering some of the reader responses to Part I. Some of the comments may surprise you… We also take a closer look at the puppet/master relationship between Russia’s freshly installed President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.

Read the full article here.