Asia Economy

A Reuters commentary examines which Asian economies will be hit hardest as the US Federal Reserve continues tightening monetary policy. The analysis focuses on how rising US interest rates could pressure Asian currencies, capital flows and debt levels. It comes as markets weigh how long the Fed will keep rates elevated and which regional economies are most vulnerable to capital outflows and weaker currencies.

China is considering allowing Alibaba and ByteDance to purchase Nvidia's newest chips, according to a report from Asia Economy. The move would mark a shift in Beijing's stance on access to advanced US semiconductors for its largest tech firms, with implications for US-China trade and the global AI race.

Indonesia's rule limiting the budget deficit to 3% of GDP is being debated, with critics asking whether it serves as a necessary fiscal guardrail or a barrier to growth. Supporters say the cap protects investor confidence and fiscal discipline, while opponents argue it constrains spending needed for development and infrastructure in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

Hong Kong is stepping up efforts to strengthen economic and professional links with Central Asia. The Hong Kong Trade Development Council, together with the city's Department of Justice, led the Collaborate2Win campaign across Xinjiang, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, promoting Hong Kong's financial, legal and professional services as it seeks new markets and partners in the region.

A discussion on how India is approaching the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, exploring the country's opportunities and challenges in adopting AI across its economy and society. The conversation, highlighted by the Asia Society, focuses on how India positions itself in the global AI race, touching on policy, innovation and the impact on its large workforce.

Seven out of ten startup employees say South Korea's 52-hour workweek should be made more flexible, according to a report carried by Asia Economy. The finding points to growing pressure within the startup sector to loosen rigid weekly hour caps, with workers and employers arguing that fixed limits do not fit project-based schedules and irregular workloads common at young companies.