Laos debt

The country's public debt is unsustainable, while inflation sits at 25 percent and the kip continues its freefall.

The power utility's recent curious dealings with a prominent local conglomerate suggest that something is afoot.

Relieved of the need to keep its currency afloat, the central bank could focus on addressing the country’s worsening foreign debt crisis.

Given their connection to structural features of communist rule, there will be no quick respite from the economic woes.

The ruling Lao People's Revolutionary Party has grossly mishandled the economy, but there is no political alternative – at least for now.

Laos is disturbingly reliant on investment from China – and no one knows how much, and under what terms. 

Rising tourism arrivals could offer some economic relief, though the government faces a number of complex structural challenges.

While inflation is projected to fall in 2023, there is no quick fix to the country's economic troubles.

Up to $30 billion in financing is potentially on the table – most of it from China.

A month after his appointment, Sonexay Siphandone has given some indication of how he plans to tackle the country's severe economic challenges.

While China is critically important, the current debt crisis in Laos is about much more than Beijing.

The decision by the Fitch ratings agency testifies to the depth and unpredictability of the country's current economic crisis.