China has ramped up its investment in power transmission, spending 529 billion yuan ($72 billion) in the first 11 months of 2024. This represents a 19% increase, indicating a significant shift as grid investments are projected to outpace new power generation projects for the first time since 2018.
In Indonesia, Bank Indonesia made a surprising move by cutting its policy interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%. This decision defied the expectations of all 38 economists surveyed, who anticipated that the central bank would maintain its current rate amidst ongoing economic uncertainty.
The Bank of Korea opted to keep its policy rate unchanged at 3% amid a politically charged environment and a slowing economy. This decision was unexpected, as most economists predicted a rate cut to bolster consumer confidence following recent political events and a major aviation disaster.
Germany continues to face economic challenges, being identified as the most distressed market in Europe for a second consecutive year. Forecasts warn that corporate distress levels could surpass those seen during the pandemic due to declining global demand and ongoing price pressures, compounded by potential supply chain disruptions and trade policies.