Along with optimism for progress, the ascendance of global capitalism has given rise to fears of decreased welfare protections and benefits, as well as a loss of sovereign power for individual nations. Academics, journalists, policy-makers, and activists around the world caution that globalization will inevitably lead to a race to the bottom. According to the RTB hypothesis, in a world unhindered by restrictions on trade and capital flows, investors will pursue the highest rate of return, wherever that may be found. Nations that go counter to the market by protecting their citizens from the worst of its effects could lose out in the competition for global business and funds. Safety nets, environmental standards, and acceptable labor costs and protections could all raise production costs or risk lower profit margins.