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If I recall, the novels indicate that there's more magicians in the USNA, hence the superior power of the USNA. Also, it's mentioned that the USNA has the edge technologically and that magic was first acknowledged there. The problem in the USNA (and spreading to Japan) is that of anti-Magic sentiment... which is being fomented by those whose interests are best served by the weakening of the USNA and Japan.
So, it's not as if there is no rhyme or reason to the geopolitical situation. The novel sets up the world as one where there are no strong alliances. Each country is only looking after its own interests. Where they coincide there is cooperation, and where they conflict, there is trouble.
Yes, you can substitute Magic for money (or talent) and come away with Tatsuya as the unapologetic capitalist (or 'meritocrat') in the Enrollment Arc. He is both a victim and a beneficiary of the system. He prefers and is protecting Miyuki's peaceful life, but he is also a pragmatist when it comes to violence/war. He is against Magicians being tools for war, but he is not against Magic being used for war.
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