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Pacific Money

The 21st century is commonly referred to as the 'Pacific Century.' For such a prediction to materialize, the economies of the Asia-Pacific must lead the globe. What challenges will the region face? What nations stand to benefit most? The Diplomat's economics and business blog, Pacific Money, will try to tackle these questions and more.

How the Exit of US Banks From the Net-Zero Banking Alliance Threatens Climate Finance in Southeast Asia

How the Exit of US Banks From the Net-Zero Banking Alliance Threatens Climate Finance in Southeast Asia

By Ardhi Rasy Wardhana
Without the participation of U.S. banks in the NZBA, the already limited pool of climate finance may shrink further.

Malaysia’s PM Outlines Leadership Ambitions in Energy, Chip Manufacturing

Malaysia’s PM Outlines Leadership Ambitions in Energy, Chip Manufacturing

By Sebastian Strangio
Anwar Ibrahim says that his country's "neutrality and openness for partnership" make it a "natural hub" for high-tech manufacturing.
New iPhone Still Barred From Sale in Indonesia Despite Apple Investment

New iPhone Still Barred From Sale in Indonesia Despite Apple Investment

By Sebastian Strangio
Jakarta seems determined to use the leverage it enjoys as the world's fourth-largest smartphone market to extract maximum benefits from the U.S. tech giant.

The Hidden Lifeline for Afghans: Remittances

The Hidden Lifeline for Afghans: Remittances

By Kritika Jothishankar and Nara Sritharan
At a time when remittances often double the scale of official aid, it’s imperative to address systemic barriers – including in the United States. 

Making an Electric Car Battery, Minus China

Making an Electric Car Battery, Minus China

By Abhimanyu Singh Rana
Building indigenous capacities to produce raw materials for lithium-ion batteries will be crucial for achieving energy transition goals.

What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?
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What’s Driving Taiwan’s Mass Protests?

What Indonesia’s 2025 Budget Tells Us About Prabowo’s Fiscal Outlook

What Indonesia’s 2025 Budget Tells Us About Prabowo’s Fiscal Outlook

By James Guild
To a large extent, fears about uncontrolled government spending have been overblown.

Taiwan’s TikTok Liberal Paradox

Taiwan’s TikTok Liberal Paradox

By Kai-Shen Huang
In contrast to the United States’ fiery debates over regulating TikTok, Taiwan’s policy discourse has remained conspicuously subdued.
Indonesia Scales Back Planned VAT Hike, Will Apply Only to Luxury Goods

Indonesia Scales Back Planned VAT Hike, Will Apply Only to Luxury Goods

By Sebastian Strangio
The last-minute shift by President Prabowo Subianto came in response to strong criticisms from business associations and labor unions.

China Is Dominating the Race for Generative AI Patents 

China Is Dominating the Race for Generative AI Patents 

By Rahul Pandey
The GenAI revolution is not merely a matter of innovation and economic growth. It’s a battle for geopolitical supremacy – and China is in the lead.

With Indonesia’s XL Axiata-Smartfren Merger, Telecom Consolidation Marches on 

With Indonesia’s XL Axiata-Smartfren Merger, Telecom Consolidation Marches on 

By James Guild
Amid both financial and geopolitical pressures, there has been a trend toward increased consolidation in Southeast Asia’s telecom industry.

The Good, the Bad, and the Uncertain of Australia’s Economic Outlook

The Good, the Bad, and the Uncertain of Australia’s Economic Outlook

By Luke Hartigan
The Australian economy has had a tough few years, but there are some reasons to be positive, and other reasons to be not so positive.
UK Officially Joins Trans-Pacific Trade Agreement

UK Officially Joins Trans-Pacific Trade Agreement

By Sebastian Strangio
The country has become the 12th member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

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