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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.
The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, Explained
By James Guild
The project is intended to bring together Malaysia's land and labor with Singaporean finance and investment.
China’s AI Shock? What DeepSeek Disrupts (and Doesn’t)
By Kai-Shen Huang
DeepSeek’s success is not based on outperforming its U.S. counterparts, but on delivering similar results at significantly lower costs. The AI price war has begun.
Why India’s Growth Momentum Is Losing Steam
By Biswajit Dhar
The slowdown should be a wake-up call for the government to take remedial action, especially to address weakness on the demand side.
Mongolia at Davos 2025: AI and Emerging Industries
By Bolor Lkhaajav
At the 2025 World Economic Forum, Mongolia’s delegation pursued opportunities to attract investment in all things AI.
With Trump Back in the White House, the Age of Free Trade Could Be Coming to an End
By Sami Bensassi and Agelos Delis
China did very well in a rule-based trade system. But it’s far less clear how the country will sustain its surging exports in the more protectionist world envisioned by Trump.
Why Indonesia is Blocking Apple From Selling the iPhone 16
By James Guild
Middle powers with rapidly growing economies feel they have more bargaining power than they once did – and some are not afraid to use it.
The Johor-Singapore SEZ: 1963 Reimagined?
By Marcus Loh
The project offers an opportunity to enhance the strategic partnership between Singapore and Malaysia, at a time when bilateral ties are on a solid footing.
The Return of Malaysia’s Government Investment Funds
By James Guild
Whatever momentum there once was for getting the state out of the economy has seemingly stalled.
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
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
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
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.
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