And although Martin conforms to the theory that Monoposto is a 'poor man's formula', he says it is all relative in the motorsport.

BBC: Cliffe family racing for Monoposto honours

When asked for his thoughts on Falkirk manager Steven Pressley's comments that clubs who tried to keep their accounts in the black were at an unfair advantage, Smith was keen to point out that it is all relative to a club's ability to service the debt that they accumulate.

BBC: Too much is being made of Rangers' debt - Walter Smith

Of all these things, it is perhaps California's relative nonchalance towards money in politics that matters most.

ECONOMIST: A steady lot, the Californians

With newly listed states coming in ahead of African nations (or non-African nations moving above them), it is clear that the region's competitiveness relative to all others remains poor.

ECONOMIST: Outstripped