One little interesting thing I don't think a lot of people noticed yet (it isn't on the reddit summary I think): the devs do want to and are considering putting a republic (or republics) in the Indian Ocean, but haven't found or determined a suitable candidate, and judging from Johan's tone it doesn't appear like its likely one will be added. Although frankly some of the existing republics don't fit the Venetian style republic mechanics anyways, so I hope they'll add in something.