Economic Spotlight

Japan’s steel producers have not been spared from a fresh wave of US tariffs. However, there is little reason to panic.

The Trump administration is maintaining a strong dollar policy. Will it hold under the weight of an escalating tariff war?

Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) has set a five-year investment target of THB 500 billion (USD 14.68 billion) per annum. So far, things are looking up.

Japan is actively promoting green bonds by reducing the cost and bureaucratic bottlenecks for issuers, leading to fast growth in the green bonds market and setting the country on the path of achieving its sustainability goals.

Malaysia sets its sights to become a leading global healthcare destination by 2025 by creating opportunities for private investments towards the manufacture of medical devices and health services, and by increasing public spending for the sector.

Brazil is gradually building its reputation in sustainability financing following its USD 2-billion issuance of sovereign green bonds in 2023.

Donald Trump’s return to the White House has raised concerns over renewed US protectionism and sustained high interest rates, boosting demand for the dollar and to the detriment of emerging market currencies, including the Brazilian real.

Indian government bonds have been included in two major bond indices globally. Will this attract more investments into the economy?

Japan’s central bank exited its negative interest rate regime in March 2024 amid prolonged economic stagnation which led to its dethronement as the world’s third biggest economy.

Trade tensions between China and the US appear headed for the worse with the imposition of a 100 per cent tariff on China-made electric vehicles and a vow from President-elect Donald Trump to impose more when he returns to power.