Blog
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.
Malaysia’s State-Run Investment Funds Had a Mixed 2023
By James Guild
The performance of two major Malaysian funds demonstrates both the strength and weakness of forced savings policies.
Avoiding a US-Japan Rift Over Steel
By Richard Katz
Is a deal between Nippon Steel and United Steelworkers in the offing?
Why the Indonesian State Took Majority Ownership of PT Vale Indonesia
By James Guild
There has long been a desire in certain quarters to eventually move ownership of foreign-owned and operated mines back into Indonesian hands.
Voltage Visions: China’s EV Surge in Southeast Asia
By Nancy Wei
With intense competition at home, China is exporting its electric vehicle success story to Southeast Asia.
Indonesia’s Long and Winding Road to OECD Membership
By Sebastian Strangio
The 38-nation grouping has agreed to begin accession talks with Jakarta. Now comes the hard part.
Why the Indonesian Stock Market Is Booming
By James Guild
The country's expanding domestic capital markets have cushioned it against the declines seen elsewhere in the region.
How Automation Will Shape the Future of Work in India
By Anita Hammer
Automation could reproduce informal and precarious work rather than transform existing trends.
Indonesia Announces New Tax Incentives to Encourage EV Sales
By Sebastian Strangio
The latest announcement reflects the Indonesian government’s desire to stay at the forefront of the region's EV production race.
Why Malaysia’s Pharmaniaga Is In Financial Trouble
By James Guild
And why its troubles might be short-lived.
Indonesia’s Fossil Fuel Subsidies Threaten its Energy Transition
By Galen Erickson
The subsidies could prevent the country from achieving its ambition of becoming a renewable energy powerhouse.
The Benefits of Japan’s Climate Transition Bond
By Walter James
The government plans to use the proceeds on technologies that will steer Japan’s government and industry on the right track in terms of both climate and export competitiveness.
Taiwan’s Semiconductor Talent Shortage
By Ray Wang
The island's famed semiconductor sector is struggling to recruit sufficient numbers of chipmakers, posing a long-term threat to the industry.