Asia Pacific
New government in the Maldives gets a shaky start
Despite surprising election results, a fractious political landscape will remain a challenge for the Maldives as the country tackles effects of climate change and growing international attention. Following Abdulla Yameen’s surprising victory
Part III of IV: Why Indonesia needs further energy subsidy reform
The Indonesian government has been hesitant to cut subsidies out of fear of public unrest and political backlash. As domestic energy demand continues its historic growth, however, the economic cost
Abenomics goes ‘all in’ with April tax hike
While March’s wage hike by Japan came as a bright spot amidst growing concern over Abenomics, will April’s 3 percentage point tax hike rain on Abe’s parade? Since sweeping back
Indonesia latest emerging market to reject investment treaties
Jakarta’s turn-around is only the latest in a growing chorus of opposition to bilateral investment treaties, meant to attract foreign investors by solidifying FDI protection at the price of curtailing sovereign policy space.
China’s internet banking faces tightened regulations
China’s central bank is considering regulations that would curb the development of China’s internet banking innovation. Facing rising domestic financial risks, Chinese policy makers seem to be liberalizing the financial
Vietnam’s naval modernization could destabilize region
Vietnam’s recent military and naval modernization potentially puts it on a collision course with China. Aside from further destabilizing regional security, such tensions could scare off Chinese investors, a disastrous development
Widening wealth gap threatens Vietnam’s stability
A joint report issued earlier this month by the Vietnam General Statistics Office and the World Bank has drawn attention to a growing wealth gap in the Southeast Asian nation.
Can the Renminbi become an international currency?
Guest blogger Frederik Vitting Hermann looks at the more widespread use of China’s currency around the globe. Conditions in the domestic market and the Chinese incremental reform style of monetary
3 factors that will affect China’s GDP growth rate this year
Economists and China watchers alike have waited for news on whether China’s growth will remain high. Contrary to popular belief, a decline in growth would actually signify effective implementation of
Renminbi depreciation poses risk to Chinese economy
In the last couple of weeks, the Renminbi has lost nearly half of its 2013 appreciation against the U.S. dollar. Investor speculation and central bank monetary policy may both be