Asia Pacific
Chinese firms edging out Samsung and Apple in the smartphone industry
Aggressive pricing and strategic partnerships drive China’s rising profile in the global smartphone market. It may not be long until “Made in China” becomes a mark of prestige. Smartphones may
Forecasting China’s anti-corruption campaign
China’s recent economic struggles will mean a serious re-examination of existing policies by Beijing, including the ongoing anti-corruption campaign. In the coming 12 months, China will continue its anti-graft efforts
China’s road to recovery brings emerging market turmoil
Following the decision of China’s government to trim interest rates and adjust the requisites of bank reserves for commercial banks, we are starting to see some improvement from the 20% loss in
Japan defence industry: Arm thy neighbour
The lifting of the ban on weapon exportation, strongly advocated by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, reflects the intention of Japan to establish important partnerships in the region. This serves to
Start-ups poised to change politics in Singapore
As Singapore seeks new sources of growth, the micro-nation is positioning itself to become Asia’s start-up hub. By promoting outside-of-the-box thinking, Singapore could see political spillover as the government loosens
Economic turbulence ahead: Aviation safety in Southeast Asia
Indonesia’s recent Trigana Air plane crash is evidence of the region’s failure to grapple with a number of aviation safety challenges. Without a move to remedy this failure, it is
The legacy of Philippines President Benigno Aquino
As Philippines’ President Benigno ‘Noynoy’ Aquino winds down his term as President, we consider whether he has lived up to the promises he made in his 2010 election campaign. On
Bangkok attack likely to affect Thailand’s vital tourism industry
Last Monday’s bomb attack in Bangkok is driving tourists away and adding uncertainty to Thailand’s lackluster economy. Obsession with internal stability and a strong response from the junta-led government might
Yuan devaluation kills two bird with one stone
The three-day devaluation, which rattled markets last week, serves two ends for the Politburo; it is a move towards a slightly more market-based rate, and it tests the last tool
Jokowi’s cabinet shake-up offers hope but little growth impact
Jokowi’s revamped cabinet features experienced technocrats appointed to boost the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Domestic business insiders welcomed the cabinet reshuffle, but remain cautious as they wait for better
