What’s a topic or issue about which you’ve changed your mind?

I used to be an economic libertarian when I realized that the most productive countries that lifted themselves from nothing like South Korea, or Singapore did so thanks to tight state control and even expropriations that would be unthinkable elsewhere. I realized the free market is not always the holy grail. I am still in favour of letting people make money but the state need to have some vision and even control.

What brands do you associate with?

I like Emporio Armani clothing and accessories. It is expensive but it lasts so long and is good quality. I did not have to repair my handbag for ten years. And with the repair it will probably last another decade and still looks presentable.