Finance

With unemployment rates at all-time highs, it has become clear that China has a youth-unemployment problem. Record numbers of college graduates are exacerbating the summer peak of frictionally unemployed, but the problem also reflects the struggles China’s corporate sector faces in creating enough entry-level jobs amidst its post-COVID recovery.

High inflation, low growth and rising unemployment: the deadly ingredients of stagflation. Are we there yet? Not yet, given that unemployment remains low. But with central banks aggressively hiking rates, the ever-growing signs of recession and job loss while inflation refuses to surrender indicate the 1970s’ stagflation may soon be upon us.

Small and medium sized enterprises are the lifeblood of the global economy, yet for too long these dynamic businesses have found themselves restricted access to the tier one banking services enjoyed by larger, more established organisations.  Following the 2008 crash and the chaos of the global pandemic, an unhealthy culture has developed amongst the big banks

Some believe that without development finance, many economies, especially in developing countries, would stagnate. Over the years, much has been written theorizing about the importance of development finance in promoting economic growth. But can the true impacts of development finance institutions be quantitatively measured?

When the global economy was sent into a meltdown due to the pandemic, tech firms remained largely unscathed and thrived as the world increasingly relied on the digital realm. But rising interest rates and a deteriorating macroeconomic environment have analysts speculating that the party may finally be over for the tech sector.

Global trade is hindered by a persistent shortfall in trade finance to meet demand. Compounding the problem are serious gaps in existing trade and supply chains. The Asian Development Bank recognizes the problem and is committed to ensuring trade and supply chains are green, resilient, transparent, inclusive and socially responsible.

US financial institutions with international operations should pay close attention to recent legislation aiming to combat money laundering and enforce political sanctions. The time has come for them to examine their financial-crime frameworks and forward-looking strategies to ensure they are prepared for the new AML and sanctions regimen.

The Global Minimum Tax will impose a 15-percent effective tax rate on large multinational enterprises, addressing tax avoidance that has affected the tax revenues of especially developing countries. Although implementation is not slated to begin until 2024, all countries should begin preparing. What policy options are available to them?

Many regulations exist to ensure responsible borrowing and lending, except when it comes to sovereigns. One of the most effective measures to impose soft laws on sovereign debt has been the UNCTAD Principles on Promoting Responsible Sovereign Lending and Borrowing. What are they, how will they help, and when will they be implemented?

February 2021’s military coup during a deadly pandemic left Myanmar’s economy struggling to recover against a worsening global economic backdrop. The junta desperately needs US dollars and has enacted a series of draconian policies on businesses. With soaring inflation and insufficient fuel imports, the country is struggling more than most.