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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.
Thailand’s Showdown Over Interest Rates, Explained
By James Guild
The economic rationale of the Bank of Thailand, and the political incentives of the current government, have been at odds since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Musk to ‘Consider’ Opening Battery Plant in Indonesia, Senior Official Says
By Sebastian Strangio
A Tesla investment would be a significant vote of confidence in Jakarta's ambition of becoming an EV production powerhouse.
Why the US Must Rethink Its Strategy to Compete With China in the EV Market
By Lizzi C. Lee
Washington should draw from Beijing’s industrial policies, avoid its pitfalls, and leverage America’s unique strengths to outshine China in the global EV market.
The Philippines’ $35 Billion Military Modernization Plan, Explained
By James Guild
Manila is seeking to take a major step forward in the modernization of its armed forces, but current economic conditions are challenging.
2023 Was Another Big Year for Indonesian Cinema
By James Guild
Box office receipts have to return to their pre-pandemic levels, but locally-made films are making up a greater proportion of ticket sales.
The Data Quagmire for German Carmakers in China
By Rebecca Arcesati
The renewal of the Sino-German MoU on autonomous vehicles opens up questions around data privacy, security, and Germany’s industrial competitiveness.
Despite the ‘De-risking’ Buzz, Some Multinationals Are Doubling Down in China
By Thomas Zhang
In the future we are likely to see fewer new entrants into the Chinese market, while players with established operations there will get bigger and stronger, more focused on serving Chinese consumers and businesses.
Microsoft CEO Announces AI Investments in Indonesia, Thailand
By Sebastian Strangio
Satya Nadella has pledged to expand the infrastructure needed to support the firm's AI services in the fast-growing region.
Samsung Reports a 10-fold Increase in Profit as AI Drives Rebound in Memory Chip Markets
By Associated Press
Samsung projected the memory chip market to remain strong in the coming months, driven by the expansion of generative AI technologies.
Southeast Asian Tourism Slowly, But Steadily, Recovered in 2023
By James Guild
Is this the year that the region's tourist sector finally returns to its pre-pandemic levels?
How the Indonesia Investment Authority Built Its Portfolio in 2023
By James Guild
Three years after its establishment, the purpose of the state-run investment fund is starting to come into focus.
US and Europe: 2 Different Approaches to Restricting Chinese EVs
By You Wang
As China's overcapacity becomes a buzzword, restrictions on Chinese electric vehicles are expected. However, the objectives, approaches, and anticipated outcomes differ between Europe and the U.S.