Showing 1 - 9 of 9
Year of Turbulence
Asia focus, Published on 27/12/2021
» Pandemic drags on recovery: In the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, many Asian countries had enviable success, avoiding large-scale outbreaks and mass deaths. But the arrival of the more transmissible Delta variant this year and sluggish vaccine rollouts compounded by low availability sent cases surging. Combined with poor monitoring and easy movement among countries, often unofficially, Southeast Asia became a virus hotspot. The ballooning health crisis collided with churning political discontent in the case of Myanmar, Thailand and Malaysia. Economically, the new wave of infections, and attendant restrictions imposed to curb the spread, stalled recoveries. After nearly two years of strict border controls, many countries started to loosen up and live with Covid. But the rise of the Omicron variant now threatens to scuttle those tentative reopening plans and usher in a third year of economic anxiety.
All eyes on Fed next week as global shares steady
Business, Published on 24/07/2021
» Recap: Global stocks had a volatile week before picking up on Friday. The MSCI World Index steadied after three days of gains. The market is looking ahead to next week's Federal Reserve meeting after the European Central Bank pledged on Thursday to continue with heavy stimulus spending. Emerging markets and Asian shares slid, pressured by coronavirus worries.
Sinking Cities
Asia focus, Published on 02/09/2019
» One of the most pressing challenges the world is facing as a result of climate change is rising sea levels. Scientists predict that oceans will rise by between 0.3 and 2.5 metres by 2100. This will put many coastal areas at risk, with potentially catastrophic consequences for large cities.
A safercyber world
Asia focus, Published on 03/09/2018
» E-commerce and other digital services are becoming a part of mainstream life in Southeast Asia, part of a transformation that is driving strong economic growth. But the advances are not universal and the system is still not nearly as secure as it should be.
Seeding green growth
Asia focus, Tanyatorn Tongwaranan, Published on 18/06/2018
» Sustainability and planning for climate change have become mainstream components of economic planning globally as the world has witnessed the adverse impacts of irresponsible growth pathways.
Getting fatter faster
Asia focus, Published on 23/10/2017
» Most people tend to associate obesity with "being rich" -- as incomes rise, so too do opportunities to consume more. However, the causes of this growing public health problem are more complex, while finding solutions is a growing challenge.
Asean to be connected by roads and railways
Jon Fernquest, Published on 27/08/2012
» Roads & rail lines from China & India gradually extending into Asean, driving from Shanghai to Paris by road non-stop, one day soon a reality.
High dam water levels: Flood risk
Jon Fernquest, Published on 23/01/2012
» With rainy season arriving in May, high dam water levels could lead to flood repeat.
Measures to reduce damage from floods in Bangkok
Jon Fernquest, Published on 01/11/2010
» Possible economic damage due to climate change and flooding in the future was the subject of an important report issued last week.