China Drafts Bank Deposit Insurance in Move to Free Rates

China will start an insurance system for bank deposits, a move toward scrapping remaining controls on interest rates and allowing lenders to fail in a more market-driven economy.

PH economy slows down sharply in third quarter

The Philippine economy grew in the third quarter at its slowest pace in nearly three years due to weak public spending, putting at risk President Benigno S. Aquino III’s goal of boosting the nation’s annual expansion to a record by 2016.

Why India markets will continue to break records

India markets have made a stunning recovery from last year's taper tantrum, with the Nifty index at record highs, and some analysts are calling the run up just the beginning.

Dubai discusses ways to integrate Asia into global economy

DUBAI: Global finance leaders and policy makers have emphasised on the importance of integration of Asia into global economy at a summit here hosted by the Gulf Emirate.

China won't consider more rate cuts or easing until fourth quarter data out: official

(Reuters) - China's central bank will wait until fourth-quarter economic data is out and monitor U.S. and Japanese monetary policy before considering any more rate cuts or easing, a central bank adviser said on Tuesday.

Singapore economy to grow 3.0 percent in 2014: govt

Singapore's economy is expected to slow to growth of 3.0 percent this year as a global deterioration hits the city-state's crucial trade outlook, the government said on Tuesday.

South Korea holds winning hand as Japan gambling bill dies

TOKYO/SEOUL, Nov 24 (Reuters) - South Korea looks like the consolation prize as Japan's $15 billion casino dream fades, a setback for companies such as Las Vegas Sands Corp that envisioned a new gaming hub rivalling Las Vegas in 2020.

China commits $45.6 billion for economic corridor with Pakistan

(Reuters) - The Chinese government and banks will finance Chinese companies to build $45.6 billion worth of energy and infrastructure projects in Pakistan over the next six years, according to new details of the deal seen by Reuters on Friday.

South Korean Debt Expands at 7-Year High

Household debt in South Korea is rising at its fastest pace in seven years, driven by government efforts to help prop up the economy.

Japan exports grow strongly in Oct, cutting economic gloom

(Reuters) - Japanese exports grew in October at the fastest pace in eight months, an encouraging sign that global demand could help the country recover from recession and support the central bank's optimistic economic outlook.

Why China won't be Asia's dominant power

China may be Asia's economic powerhouse but it won't become the region's dominant power, according to a new report.

Australia as Guinea Pig Opened China Services Market, Robb Says

Australia will serve as a guinea pig in China’s services market, bringing expertise to the world’s second-largest economy without dominating it, Trade Minister Andrew Robb said.

Australian, Indian leaders target free trade pact, economic boost

(Reuters) - Australia and India will push for a free trade pact, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday during a rare state visit to Canberra by an Indian leader.

Japanese recession figures prompt talk of snap election

Japan has unexpectedly sunk into recession in the third quarter, raising the prospect of a snap election as the country’s prime minister, Shinzo Abe, attempts to secure a mandate to breathe life into the world’s third biggest economy.

China opens first leg of high-speed railway in Xinjiang

(Reuters) - China opened the first stretch of a new high-speed railway in the western region of Xinjiang on Sunday, a milestone in the central government's efforts to promote economic development in restive hinterlands and bind them closer to the rest of China.

Hong Kong Flags 2014 Growth at Bottom of Range on Occupy Protest

Pro-democracy protests that froze sections of Hong Kong’s business and shopping districts and sluggish exports will push the city’s full-year economic growth to the lower end of the government’s forecast range.

Japan PM Abe's expected tax delay a new headache for BOJ chief Kuroda

(Reuters) - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's expected decision to delay a tax hike compounds problems for Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda, who already faces an increasingly divided board and financial markets that are questioning his credibility.

China's economy shows more signs of weakness

A slew of economic data out of China, which came in below forecasts on Thursday, has highlighted the continuing downward pressure facing the Asian giant.

BOJ's Miyao: chance high that QE exit debate can begin in second half of FY 2015

(Reuters) - Bank of Japan board member Ryuzo Miyao said on Wednesday there is a high chance that the central bank can begin debating an exit to its quantitative easing in the second half of fiscal 2015, the most specific comments to date about when that debate will start.

China's economic risks 'not scary' - President Xi Jinping

The risks facing China's economy are not "scary", President Xi Jinping has told global business leaders. In a speech to chief executives ahead of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit he sought to dispel concerns about the economy.

South Korea says won't stand by as weak yen hits competitiveness

(Reuters) - South Korean authorities won't sit on their hands while a tumbling yen undercuts the country's export competitiveness, the central bank chief said on Friday, but policymakers could be reluctant to reduce interest rates, and currency intervention offers limited relief.

Kerry Meets Chinese CEOs Between Talks on Ukraine and Iran

Between discussing Ukraine with Russia’s foreign minister in Beijing and flying to a meeting on Iran’s nuclear program, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry took time to meet with some of China’s biggest investors in the U.S.

Annual China trade growth slows in October in further sign of fragility

Exports have been the lone bright spot in the last few months, perhaps helping to offset soft domestic demand, but there are doubts about the accuracy of the official numbers amid signs of a resurgence of speculative currency flows through inflated trade receipts.

Japan banker hopes for smalltown encore with 'curtain call' loans

(Reuters) - While rival banks sit on their deposits, frustrating government efforts to reflate Japan's stagnant economy, regional banker Takashi Tsuchiya will write you a loan to close your business or end your marriage.

Exclusive: Modi sell-off drive stalls, more Indian spending cuts on way

(Reuters) - India will fall well short of its $9.5 billion privatization target this year, despite a big stock market rally that has attracted foreign investors, two government sources told Reuters.

Mongolian Premier Altankhuyag Ousted in No-Confidence Vote

Mongolian Prime Minister Altankhuyag Norov lost a no-confidence vote over his handling of the economy and will step down along with the rest of his cabinet.

Japan economy minister calls for fiscal stimulus if third-quarter GDP data weak

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese Economy Minister Akira Amari said on Monday that the government should deploy fresh fiscal stimulus to prop up the economy if third-quarter preliminary gross domestic data due on Nov. 17 turns out weak, public broadcaster NHK reported.

China new house price declines slow in October: Survey

BEIJING: Declines in China's new home prices slowed in October, a survey showed Friday, though figures still fell for a sixth straight month as property woes weigh on growth in the world's second-largest economy.

South Korea exports rise 2.5 percent in October, trade surplus at record

(Reuters) - South Korean exports rose slightly faster than expected in October but imports saw their sharpest drop in 13 months, dragged down by softer demand for raw materials and capital goods, data showed on Saturday.

Bank of Japan expands monetary stimulus measure

Japan's central bank has surprised markets by announcing an expansion of its monetary stimulus policy.

Hong Kong Protesters Mull Beijing Trip to Seek Talks

Hong Kong protesters said they may attempt to visit Beijing next week to seek talks with China’s top leaders while the nation plays host to a global summit whose attendees will include U.S. President Barack Obama.

Inflation target timing not like 'train schedule' :BoJ deputy chief

[TOKYO] The Bank of Japan's deputy governor said Tuesday the timeline for reaching its inflation target "can't be like a train schedule", remarks that may fuel doubts about the ambitious goal of conquering years of deflation.

World Bank urges China to cut economic growth target to seven percent in 2015, focus on reforms

(Reuters) - China can cut its economic growth target to 7 percent next year without hurting its labor market, the World Bank said on Wednesday even as it urged Beijing to get rid of rigid growth objectives.

Pacific trade talks progress but gap remains between U.S., Japan

(Reuters) - Negotiations for an ambitious trade pact among Pacific countries made significant progress over the weekend but there is still a gap between Japan and the United States over market access and other hurdles, trade representatives said on Monday.

Vietnam to Accelerate Privatization With Share-Sale Reboot

Vietnam plans to set up a working group to help spur share sales of state enterprises as the government takes steps to bolster a flagging privatization program and drive economic growth.

China refutes US' criticism on Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank

BEIJING: China today refuted US' criticism of Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) lacking transparency saying 20 countries have endorsed the multilateral structure of the newly-established institution.

India Must Bring Down Inflation to Spur Growth, Subramanian Says

India must curb inflation and the budget deficit to revive economic growth from near a decade low, Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian said.

Indonesia’s Graft Body Probes Several Former Ministers

Indonesia’s anti-graft agency, tasked by President Joko Widodo to assess candidates for his cabinet, said it is investigating several ministers in former leader Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s government and wants the incoming team to sign an integrity pact.

South Korea third-quarter GDP rebounds but global headwinds raise uncertainty

(Reuters) - South Korea's economic growth quickened in the third quarter led by private consumption and construction spending, but quarterly exports declined for the first time in a year in a sign of cooling global growth that should keep the door open for more monetary easing.

Japan’s Exports Rise Most in Seven Months in Boost to Abe

Japan’s exports climbed the most in seven months in September, supporting a rebound in the economy as Prime Minister Shinzo Abe weighs another sales-tax increase.

China's growth slowest since global crisis, annual target at risk

(Reuters) - China grew at its slowest pace since the global financial crisis in the September quarter and risks missing its official target for the first time in 15 years, adding to concerns the world's second-largest economy is becoming a drag on global growth.

South Korea economy lifted by switch away from deposit based rentals

(Reuters) - For a country trying to avoid the menace of deflation, South Korea is receiving timely help from unusual quarters - the country's landlord and their tenants.

China, Russia mull high-speed Moscow-Beijing rail line: report

Beijing (AFP) - China and Russia are considering building a high-speed rail line thousands of kilometres from Moscow to Beijing that would cut the journey time from six days on the celebrated Trans-Siberian to two, Chinese media reported Friday.

IMF says Singapore's foreign worker curbs could hurt competitiveness, growth

(Reuters) - Singapore's plans to cut reliance on foreign workers could reduce its competitiveness and growth potential while keeping core inflation elevated, the International Monetary Fund said in a report on Saturday.

Japan’s 2-Year Yield Falls to Record 0.005% on Flight to Safety

Japan’s two-year notes climbed, pushing yields to a record low, as a decline in domestic equities reinforced speculation the Bank of Japan will maintain its unprecedented debt purchases to sustain growth.

India's Modi names Rajan ally as chief economic adviser

(Reuters) - A high-powered academic who tells his students to read Joseph Conrad and Gabriel Garcia Marquez to better understand economic development was confirmed on Thursday as chief economic adviser to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

China inflation slips to near five-year low, more stimulus measures expected

(Reuters) - China's consumer inflation slowed more than expected in September to a near five-year low, adding to concerns that global growth is cooling fast unless governments take bolder measures to shore up their economies.

India’s CPI Slows More Than Estimated as Food Prices Eas

India’s retail inflation slowed more than economists had estimated after central bank Governor Raghuram Rajan held one of Asia’s highest interest rates for a fourth straight meeting.

Russia signs deals with China to help weather sanctions

(Reuters) - Russia and China signed energy, trade and finance agreements on Monday proclaimed by Moscow as proof that a policy turn to Asia is bearing fruit and will help it to weather Western sanctions over the Ukraine crisis.

Chinese Premier says economy will avoid hard landing

(Reuters) - China will avoid a hard landing despite worries over a slowdown in the world's number two economy and a flagging real-estate market, the country's Premier Li Keqiang said in a speech in Germany on Saturday.

Malaysia Accelerates Building Projects With 6% GDP Growth Target

Malaysia is accelerating infrastructure investment as Prime Minister Najib Razak leans on public expenditure to boost growth amid concern subsidy cuts and a new consumption tax will curb private spending.

BOJ's Kuroda says no gap in view with government on weak yen benefits

(Reuters) - Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda said there was no gap in views between the government and the central bank that a weak yen was positive for the world's third-largest economy.

Indonesia Tax Boss Wants to See Bank Records in Revenue Push

Indonesia’s tax chief is pushing for access to personal bank accounts and wants to track car and home purchases in his fight to catch evaders and boost revenue.

Japan service sector sentiment unchanged in September: government survey

(Reuters) - Japan's service sector sentiment index was unchanged in September, staying below the 50-point threshold that separates pessimism from optimism for the second straight month, a Cabinet Office survey showed on Wednesday.

Mink prices sink after slump in Chinese demand

The price of mink has more than halved in the past year after retailers in China and other big fur markets were left with surplus stocks after the bursting of the Chinese fur bubble.

World Bank trims China, East Asia 2014-2016 growth forecasts

(Reuters) - The World Bank cut its 2014-2016 growth forecasts for developing East Asia, noting that China was likely to slow due to policies aimed at putting the economy on a more sustainable footing, and it also cautioned of capital-flight risks to Indonesia.

China's c.bank vows to maintain steady credit growth

BEIJING, Oct 5 (Reuters) - China's central bank said on Sunday it will use various monetary tools to maintain adequate liquidity and reasonable growth in credit and social financing.

Singapore’s Lee Doesn’t Expect More Curbs on Foreign Workforce

Singapore probably won’t need more measures to restrain the inflow of foreign workers as a further tightening could deter overseas companies from setting up business in the city, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said.

Thailand approves $2.74 billion investment in 18 projects

(Reuters) - Thailand's investment agency said on Friday it had approved applications for 18 projects worth 89.7 billion baht ($2.74 billion), many of them involving the automobile sector and renewable energy.

China ready to grab business after EU-Russia showdown

(Reuters) - China is ready to seize any business opportunities in Russia resulting from Moscow's diplomatic showdown with Europe over Ukraine, Beijing's ambassador to Berlin said ahead of a meeting of German and Chinese leaders next week.

Risks to 'Abenomics' growing, whether Japan PM raises tax or not

(Reuters) - If history is a guide, a string of disappointing economic reports in Japan would seem to argue against raising the country’s sales tax again.

China Factory Gauge Falls From Initial Reading

A Chinese manufacturing gauge fell from an initial reading a week ago as a property slump weighs on the world’s second-largest economy.

Japan PM Abe vows to keep cautious watch on tax hike's impact

(Reuters) - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday that he will carefully watch the impact of April's sales tax hike and rising fuel prices on the economy, as he must decide by year-end whether Japan can cope with a second tax increase next year.

India’s Modi Tells UN He’s Ready for Direct Talks With Pakistan

India is ready for “serious” dialogue with Pakistan over long-standing political disputes if its neighbor is also willing to make such efforts, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the United Nations General Assembly.

China industrial profits fall in August in latest weak data

(Reuters) - China's industrial profits fell 0.6 percent in August from a year earlier, reversing from July's 13.5 percent annual rise, the government said on Saturday, the latest in a series of weak data from the world's second-largest economy.

Japan inflation slows, threatening economic policy agenda

(Reuters) - Japan's annual core consumer inflation eased in August in another sign that the Bank of Japan could eventually be forced to take additional easing steps to meet its 2 percent price goal sometime next fiscal year.

Taiwan Says Monetary Policy Has Tightened in 2014 as Rates Held

Taiwan’s central bank said today its monetary policy has turned neutral from “adequately loose” after it held the benchmark interest rate, signaling a shift in stance to tackle rising prices.

Asia most attractive market, Gazprom says

YUZHNO-SAKHALINSK, Russia, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Asia is the most attractive market for energy companies, the deputy chairman of Russian energy company Gazprom said at an Eastern investment conference.

China's trade minister concerned about falling Japanese investment: business delegates

(Reuters) - China's trade minister is worried about Japan's falling levels of direct investment in his country, Japanese business officials who met him said on Tuesday, against a backdrop of strained ties between the world's second- and third-biggest economies.

Singapore Exchange Sees End to Hiatus for China IPOs

Singapore Exchange Ltd. (SGX) is forecasting an end to a two-year hiatus for Chinese listings after regulators made it easier for companies from Asia’s biggest economy to sell shares in the city-state.

Growth in China's factory sector seen stalling in Sept

BEIJING (Reuters) - Growth in China's large factory sector probably stalled in September, adding to worries the economy could be at risk of a sharper slowdown unless Beijing rolls out more stimulus measures, a Reuters poll showed on Monday.

Japan tells G20 its economy continues to recover: Aso

CAIRNS Australia (Reuters) - Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso said on Saturday he told his Group of 20 counterparts that the world's third-largest economy continues to recover moderately despite the temporary pain from a sales tax hike in April.

US to welcome India's Modi with open arms

The United States and India have turned the page on a bitter row which soured ties earlier this year and Washington is eager to welcome new Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a top official said Wednesday.

Japan trade deficit narrows in August

Japan's trade deficit narrowed in August as a fall in imports lowered the country's energy bill for the month.

China to give more financial aid to small firms

(Reuters) - China will boost its support for small firms by cutting their taxes, increasing their subsidies and encouraging banks to step up lending to them, Premier Li Keqiang said on Wednesday.

South Korea could keep expansionary policy for years

(Reuters) - South Korea will maintain pro-growth policy until a sustained recovery is firmly secured, possibly beyond 2015, as an anticipated pick-up next year might only only be tentative, the finance minister said on Tuesday.

China's fiscal spending growth eases in August

(Reuters) - China's fiscal spending expenditure growth eased to 6.2 percent in August from a year earlier, data from the Ministry of Finance showed, reflecting the government's efforts to brake spending after a surge in previous months.

Malaysia Becomes The New Global Center Of Financial Inclusion

Malaysia, Southeast Asia’s third-largest economy, is outperforming its neighbors. Its economy grew 6.4% in the second quarter due in part to another strong showing in exports.

China bank loans bounce back but more support measures may still be needed

(Reuters) - Credit levels in China appeared to improve in August after an alarming drop in July, but remained below average, adding pressure on policymakers to offer more stimulus measures to meet their 7.5 percent economic growth target for the year.

Japan approves nuclear restart amid push to close old reactors

(Reuters) - Japan's nuclear regulator on Wednesday approved the restart of a nuclear power station, the first step to reopening an industry that has been idle since the Fukushima disaster, as the government pushes for the permanent closure of older reactors.

Australia jobs rise by most on record, in huge surprise

(Reuters) - Australian employment surged by the most on record in August and far beyond the most optimistic forecast, on the face of it a stunningly strong report that should calm recent concerns about the health of the economy.

Japan Keeps Faith in Weaker Yen as Economy Struggles

Facing the prospect of the first growth-free fiscal year since the 2009 global recession, Japan’s policy makers are keeping faith that a weaker exchange rate will help the world’s third-largest economy.

India to revise GDP measurement next year, economy may be larger

(Reuters) - India will soon revise the way it measures gross domestic product to reflect under-represented and informal economic sectors, two government sources said, in an initiative that is expected to show the economy is larger than previously thought.

Carlyle raises $3.9 billion for fourth Asia investment fund

HONG KONG (Reuters) - Carlyle Group (CG.O), one of the world's largest private equity firms, said on Monday it has closed its fourth Asia fund at $3.9 billion, the second-largest private equity fund ever raised for Asia investments.

Singapore Bears Retreat as ETFs Win Flow: Southeast Asia

Money managers are turning bullish on Singapore after shunning it for more than a year as political stability and cheap equity valuations push the city-state to the top of a Morgan Stanley market ranking.

Japan may push for closure of ageing reactors: Nikkei

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan will push nuclear operators to draft plans to deal witholder reactors, including the option of scrapping those that are too old or too costly to refurbish to new standards imposed after the Fukushima disaster, the Nikkei reported on Friday.

BOJ's Kuroda, confident on inflation, urges government to raise tax again

(Reuters) - Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda urged the government to proceed with another sales tax hike to fix its finances and, despite acknowledging some weakness in the economy, remained confident the central bank would hit its inflation target.

China August data to show mild slowdown, impact of property woes

BEIJING (Reuters) - A data deluge over the coming week is likely to show continued weakness in China's economy in August due to a slowdown in the property sector, which would increase pressure on the government to unveil more pro-growth policy steps.

Fukushima workers sue Tepco over unpaid hazard pay

Workers decommissioning Japan's crippled Fukushima nuclear plant have sued its operator Tokyo Electric (Tepco) over unpaid hazard pay.

Japan wage growth surges in July

Japanese wages unexpectedly logged their strongest increase since 1997, providing a boost to the government's battle against deflation.

Indian factory activity expands at slower clip in August

(Reuters) - Indian factory growth eased in August from July's 17-month record pace as new orders came in at a slower clip, a business survey showed on Monday.

China parliament votes on allowing local governments to issue bonds

(Reuters) - The National People's Congress approved allowing some local governments to issue bonds directly, a reform that could help stabilize government financing by creating the country's first municipal bond market, parliament announced on Sunday.

South Korea September business outlook drops to lowest in over 1 year

(Reuters) - South Korean manufacturers are significantly more pessimistic about the business outlook for September than they were for August, central bank data showed on Friday, mirroring the fragility of the recovery in Asia's fourth-largest economy.

India's economic growth hits two year high

India's economy grew by 5.7% in the three months to June, its fastest pace in two-and-a-half years, according to an official estimate.

Japan vice econmin: More caution needed on next tax hike

(Reuters) - Japan's government needs to be more cautious about a coming decision on raising the national sales tax than it was on the previous hike as the economy reaches a "make-or-break point," a senior government official said on Wednesday.

Australia follows EU, US in allowing mobile devices in-flight

Passengers on Qantas and Virgin Australia from Tuesday were allowed to use mobile electronic devices in-flight with limited restrictions after a relaxation of the rules by the country's aviation authority.

Korea’s Biggest Fund Manager Sees One More BOK Rate Cut: Economy

South Korea’s central bank is likely to cut borrowing costs for the second time this year to help revive the economy, according to Samsung Asset Management Co.

China Developing an Operating System to Take on Microsoft, Google and Apple

China could have a new homegrown operating system by October to take on imported rivals such as Microsoft Corp, Google Inc and Apple Inc, Xinhua news agency said on Sunday.

China Said to Mull Subsidies for Energy-Saving Appliances

China is considering a plan to offer subsidies to encourage wider use of energy-saving home appliances, people familiar with the matter said. Shares of appliance makers rose.

Hong Kong Protestors Says Bring On Tear Gas in Poll Fight

Hong Kong pro-democracy activists say they want police to use tear gas and water cannon on them if China doesn’t meet their demands for the election of the city’s next leader.

Indian Economy to Expand by 5.8% in Fiscal 2014-15

The Indian economy, Asia's third-largest, remains on track to expand by about 5.8% in the financial year to 31, March 2015, the finance ministry's top official has said Finance Secretary Arvind Mayaram also said India's industrial production data suggested that corporate order-books were building up.

Asia shares slip as China manufacturing data weighs

Hong Kong (AFP) - Asian markets mostly fell Thursday, with downbeat Chinese manufacturing data dragging down Hong Kong and Shanghai as concerns grew about the pace of recovery in the world's second-largest economy.

Business growth slows in China and Europe, Russia sanctions still to bite

(Reuters) - Business growth in China and across Europe slowed this month, surveys showed on Thursday, providing more evidence that the world economy is stuttering and may need more monetary stimulus to keep it going.

Mongolia eyes economic boost from China president's visit

(Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed on Thursday the expansion of bilateral trade with Mongolia to $10 billion a year by 2020 as he arrived for a two-day visit aimed at deepening economic ties between the neighbors.

Japan mulls setting aside 1 trillion yen for stimulus next fiscal year: Nikkei

(Reuters) - Japan's government is considering setting aside 1 trillion yen ($9.65 billion) for stimulus spending next fiscal year to help lessen the economic damage from a sales tax hike scheduled for October next year, the Nikkei newspaper reported on Thursday.

India’s Bonds Reverse Losses as Government May Cut Borrowings

India’s 10-year sovereign bonds reversed the day’s losses after officials said the government may cut its borrowings and announce a debt buyback.

Japan heads for third quarter rebound but pressure on BOJ, Abe may build

(Reuters) - Japan's economy is expected to rebound this quarter from a steep contraction, but looming challenges will keep the pressure on the government and central bank for action to sustain growth.

China's July economic data points to further softness

(Reuters) - China's economy showed further signs of softening in July despite a burst of government stimulus measures, suggesting more policy support may be needed to keep growth on track as a property downturn worsens.

Japan's economy shrinks after sales tax rise

Japan's economy contracted by an annualised 6.8% in the second quarter of the year, the biggest fall since 2011 when it was devastated by an earthquake and tsunami.

Bank of Korea rate cut expected under government pressure

(Reuters) - The Bank of Korea is forecast to cut interest rates this week, a Reuters survey shows, a sharp turnaround in market expectations over the past month that raises questions about the central bank's independence.

Australia's biggest consumer class action widened to include more banks, customers

(Reuters) - An Australian law firm is widening a consumer class action case, already the country's largest, to target five major local and international banks over credit card fees worth as much as A$250 million ($231 million).

Rapid action needed to fuel Asia-Pacific growth: UN body

Asia-Pacific developing economies are experiencing yet another year of subdued growth, the United Nations said this week, calling for quick action on the removal of domestic structural constraints and the unlocking of fiscal space to help stimulate growth and support social development.

China's consumer inflation at 2.3 percent in July as forecast

(Reuters) - China's consumer inflation came in as forecast at 2.3 percent rise, data showed, reinforcing bets that benign price pressures will give authorities room to relax monetary policy if needed.

Taiwan Economy Minister Offers to Resign After Deadly Blasts

Taiwan’s economy minister Chang Chia-Juch offered his resignation yesterday, taking responsibility for gas explosions in southern Taiwan’s Kaohsiung city that killed at least 30 people.

Push Into Food, Power Plants Paying Off for Japanese Traders

Japan’s trading houses were key to the revival of the country’s postwar economy as they scoured the planet for the coal, oil and metals needed by industry.

China July data to give clues on recovery strength, more stimulus

(Reuters) - A raft of China data over the coming week will give the first indications of the economy's third-quarter performance, after conflicting signals suggested that more stimulus measures may be needed to ensure a sustained recovery.

India keeps policy rate unchanged, sounds tough on inflation

(Reuters) - India's central bank kept its key policy repo rate unchanged on Tuesday as widely expected, and voiced a commitment to bringing down inflation that convinced many analysts that markets will have to wait until next year for the next cut in rates.

Is the BOJ asleep at the wheel?

With Japan's economy on shaky ground, the country's central bank needs to take a page out of Federal Reserve's playbook and unleash fresh stimulus to save the fragile recovery from fizzling out, according to one strategist.

China manufacturing gathers pace, Europe falters, U.S. steady

BEIJING/LONDON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - Manufacturing activity in China and most of Asia gathered pace in July, while expansion slowed in Europe but remained healthy in the United States.

Asian Currencies Complete Weekly Drop as U.S. Data Boost Dollar

Asian currencies completed their biggest weekly decline in three months as data signaling a strengthening U.S. recovery boosted demand for the dollar.

China PMIs jump to multi-month highs in July, add to view economy is steadying

(Reuters) - China's factories posted their strongest growth in at least 1-1/2 years in July as new orders surged to multi-month highs, two surveys showed on Friday, cementing bets that the economy is re-gaining momentum after a spate of stimulus measures.

Kerry in India Pushes to Save WTO Deal Before Deadline

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry is pressing India to agree to a global trade deal before a midnight deadline as part of talks today to expand ties between the world’s largest democracies.

China's local GDP data points to recovery, rebalancing

(Reuters) - China's regional economies enjoyed a revival in growth in the second quarter, data from provincial governments showed, chiming with earlier figures that suggest a burst of government stimulus measures is re-invigorating activity.

Future grows darker for solar energy growth in Japan

(Reuters) - On the second anniversary of a scheme aimed at boosting Japan's renewable energy after the Fukushima crisis, its powerful industry ministry is taking steps critics say will choke off solar investment and pave the way for a return to nuclear power.

China needs to import more food to ease water, energy shortages: official

(Reuters) - China should boost imports of food so it can dedicate more of its scarce water supplies to energy production, especially in arid but coal-rich regions like Xinjiang and Ningxia, a senior environmental official said on Monday.

Malaysia's economic growth to pick up in 2014, household debt a risk-World Bank

KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Reuters) - Malaysia's economy isexpected to expand 5.4 percent this year, picking up from growthof 4.7 percent in 2013, as brightening exports outweigh anexpected cooling in domestic demand, the World Bank said onFriday.

Japan’s Export-Champ Days Are Left Behind, Chart Shows

Japan’s exports stagnated even as Germany, South Korea and the U.S. saw their shipments surpass levels registered from the 2008 credit crisis, showing how a cheaper yen hasn’t stopped the nation’s manufacturers from moving abroad.

Rupee Set for Weekly Gain as India Eases Bond Cap for Foreigners

India’s rupee was headed for a weekly gain on optimism the nation will attract more capital as limits on inward investment in government debt and the insurance business are relaxed.

South Korea Unveils $11 Billion Growth Plan as Economy Weakens

South Korea unveiled 11.7 trillion won ($11.4 billion) in government initiatives to shore up Asia’s fourth-largest economy after growth slumped to the weakest pace in more than a year in the second quarter.

China to tackle 'fortress economies' in new super-region plan

(Reuters) - China is readying an assault on the "fortress economies" of local governments by creating a super region around Beijing, with proposals that sources suggest will be more aggressive than so far has been publicly revealed.

Malaysia crash ups Ukraine tension with oil firms caught in middle

The confrontation between Russia and the West took a turn for the worse with the downing of a Malaysian airliner on July 17, and that could spell trouble for several major oil companies operating in Russia.

Abbott Australia Surplus Goal at Risk in Budget Impasse: Economy

Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s bid to put Australia back on a path to surplus is under threat from senators opposing A$40 billion ($37.6 billion) in savings.

China Purge Fears Paralyzing Government And Undercutting The Economy

In China, local bureaucracies are “effectively on strike,” notes John Fitzgerald, director of the Asia-Pacific Center of Swinburne Business School in Australia.

China lends Argentina $7.5 billion for power, rail projects

(Reuters) - Argentina signed deals on Friday to borrow $7.5 billion from China at a time when the Latin American country cannot tap global capital markets because of disputes over unpaid debt.

Australia Says Putin Still Expected at G-20 as MH17 Attack Probed

Russian President Vladimir Putin is still expected to attend the Group of 20 nations summit in November, Australia said, as pro-Russian rebels were blamed for shooting down a Malaysian jet over Ukraine.

Kuroda Loan Spigot Drowns Yield Curve as Banks Buy: Japan Credit

The Bank of Japan’s low-interest loan program has spurred buying of higher-yielding sovereign debt. How much it has fueled economic growth is up for debate.

The biggest challenge for BRICS success? Big brother China

(Reuters) - In two years of tough negotiations to create the new BRICS development bank, the main stumbling block was not a lack of resources or commitment, but fellow partner China.

Philippines Shuts Markets, Offices as Typhoon Heads to Manila

The Philippines ordered financial markets and government offices shut today as the capital braces for Typhoon Rammasun, which killed at least two people before making landfall.

China's growth stagnates as property threat grows

China's economy is in danger of missing its growth target as risk balloons in the country's all-important real estate sector, according to a CNNMoney survey of economists.

Nepal unveils $6.4 billion budget

KATHMANDU: Nepal's new government on Sunday unveiled the country's first full budget in three years, aimed at revitalising an economy hit by long-standing political turmoil.

Japanese firms near crisis point as labor shortage deepens

(Reuters) - Japan's labor shortage is nearing crisis in some key industries as it spreads from construction to services, curbing companies' operations, pushing up wages and potentially crimping a tentative recovery in the world's third-largest economy.

India pays $550 million in oil dues to Iran: sources

(Reuters) - India paid a second instalment of $550 million in oil dues to Iran on Tuesday under an interim deal that has allowed Tehran access to $4.2 billion in blocked funds globally, two industry sources said.

Japan Machine Orders Fall by Record in Spending Caution Sign

Japan’s machinery orders fell the most on record in May, suggesting that companies remain cautious about deploying record cash reserves into investment.

India's GDP Growth Could Accelerate to About 6% This Year: Economic Survey

India's economy could grow six percent this year, a key report on the state of Asia's third largest economy showed.

World Bank welcomes China-led infrastructure bank

(Reuters) - World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim on Tuesday welcomed a new multilateral infrastructure bank proposed by China, saying there was a "massive need" for new investment in this area.

Next Indonesian leader walks into economic storm

The winner of this week's Indonesian presidential election faces serious challenges to keep Southeast Asia's top economy on track, from cutting fuel subsidies and fighting corruption to revamping creaking infrastructure and boosting spending on the poor.

China premier says economy fares better in second quarter than first quarter

(Reuters) - China's economic performance has improved in the second quarter from the first quarter, though the downward pressure should not yet be ignored, Premier Li Keqiang said in a statement published on Friday.

Asian Currencies in Weekly Advance as Export Outlook Brightens

Asian currencies advanced the most last week in almost two months, led by Indonesia’s rupiah, as signs of improvement in the world’s two largest economies spurred optimism that regional exports will pick up.

Indonesia Risks Suharto Dynasty Rerun as Son-in-Law Also Rises

Sixteen years after the overthrow of the dictator Suharto, Indonesia is turning back toward that regime as his former son-in-law pulls level in the race to run the world’s third-largest democracy.

Australia rebalancing act to take time, A$ overvalued: RBA

(Reuters) - Australia's economic rebalancing away from the mining boom is still in its early stages, a top central banker said on Thursday, while warning investors they were underestimating the risk of sharp fall in the local dollar.

Hong Kong Defends Currency Peg for First Time Since 2012

Hong Kong’s de facto central bank stepped in for the first time since December 2012 to prevent the city’s currency from rising against the U.S. dollar.

China manufacturing growth hits six-month high in June

China's manufacturing activity grew at its fastest pace for six months in June, suggesting that recent stimulus moves have started to have an impact.

China says welcomes US, Japan to join in new infrastructure bank

BEIJING, June 30 (Reuters) - China would welcome the participation of the United States, Japan and European countries to help set up a new multilateral bank to fund infrastructure projects in Asia, the country's finance minister was quoted as saying on Monday.

Factbox: India's stringent labor laws

(Reuters) - India has a slew of laws and rules that shape the labor market, regulating the terms of work, hiring and firing, and the working conditions.

Philippine Bonds Decline on Plan to Auction 10-Year Debt

Philippine bonds due 2023 fell, halting a two-day gain, after the government announced plans to sell 10-year debt for the first time in a year.

Asian Stocks Fall as Fed Official Says Rates May Rise

Asian stocks fell, with the regional benchmark index paring its seventh straight weekly gain, as a Federal Reserve official said the U.S. may raise interest rates by March.

China to set yuan clearing bank in Sydney: Australia

China will designate a clearing bank in Sydney for overseas trading of its yuan currency, a top Australian official said Thursday as Beijing seeks to make the tightly-controlled unit more international.

Singapore to Require Banks to Hold Liquid Assets for Crises

Banks in Singapore will soon be required to keep certain amounts of easy-to-sell assets on hand in the country to support themselves in times of stress.

Japan reveals plans to cut corporate tax to below 30%

Japan has unveiled plans to cut the country's corporate tax to below 30% in several stages starting next year.

India to present federal budget on July 10: government sources

(Reuters) - India's new finance minister Arun Jaitley will present the federal budget for the 2014/15 financial year on July 10, government sources said, three days after the parliament begins its budget session.

Japan business mood defies economic headwinds, backs BOJ optimism

(Reuters) - Confidence of Japanese manufacturers held steady in June while the service-sector mood rebounded from the prior month, an encouraging sign for the economy as it tries to hold its ground in the face of soft exports and weakening consumption.

India hikes rail fares ahead of budget

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The government on Friday pushed through a steep hike in rail passenger and freight fares, in the first dose of a "bitter medicine" Prime Minister Narendra Modi has warned of having to administer to revive Asia's third-largest economy.

Japan May inflation seen falling minus tax hike, likely to rise

(Reuters) - Japan's consumer inflation is expected to ease slightly in May, excluding a sales tax hike, as gains in gasoline moderated, but prices are believed likely to accelerate soon as a tight labor market supports consumer spending.

China’s banking leader rejects fears over British exit from EU

After a series of global business leaders insisting that Britain's membership of the European Union is an important part of their decision to invest in the UK, one of China's most senior financial figures has said it doesn't actually matter.

Japan exports disappoint, risks hitting economy hard

(Reuters) - Japan's annual exports declined for the first time in 15 months in May as shipments to Asia and the United States fell, threatening to knock the economy hard at a time when domestic consumption is being crimped by a national sales tax increase.

China May FDI falls by most in 16 months as economy slows

(Reuters) - The amount of new foreign investment that China attracted in May shrank by the most in 16 months, hurt partly by its cooling economy, though the trade ministry said the outlook may be brightening for exporters.

Japanese central bank chief sticks his neck out, pressures PM Abe for action

(Reuters) - Bank of Japan (BOJ) Governor Haruhiko Kuroda has a simple message for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe: It's time to fire the 'third arrow' of reform or risk squandering the efforts of the past 18 months to revive the Japanese economy.

Asian shares mixed, China data provides lift

Asian markets were mixed Friday following a Wall Street sell-off, as oil prices hit a nine-month high on concerns about the growing crisis in Iraq but Hong Kong and Shanghai reversed morning losses following upbeat Chinese data.

India's Modi kicks into gear with defense, dam projects

(Reuters) - India's new government kicked into gear this week, clearing billions of dollars worth of long-delayed defense projects, including a big navy base, as well as approving the scaling-up of one of the country's biggest dams.

Bank of Japan holds fire on stimulus, says economy recovering

Tokyo (AFP) - The Bank of Japan on Friday held off expanding its stimulus programme and said the world's number three economy was recovering, despite fears a sales tax rise will dent growth.

China Pledges Spending and Lower Taxes in Growth Effort

China announced new steps aimed at bolstering slowing economic growth by cutting taxes, spending more on developing the Yangtze River region and expanding financing for exporters.

India's Modi gets ready to join inflation battle

India's new government has made fighting inflation its top priority, easing concern about the potential for conflict with the country's hawkish central bank.

Asia stocks reach three-year high

(Reuters) - Asia stocks rose to three-year highs on Tuesday on optimism over global growth prospects and a record run on Wall Street, which helped lift Treasury yields and the dollar.

Economic Growth in Japan Stronger Than First Thought

TOKYO — Japan revised its initial estimate for economic growth in the January-March quarter, saying Monday that investment by companies was stronger than first thought.

China's trade surplus rises to $36bn in May

China's exports grew in May but a drop in imports signalled a possible weakening of demand in the world's second-largest economy.

Singapore finance minister accepts slower growth as trade-off for social stability

(Reuters) - Singapore is willing to accept slower growth as a trade-off for social stability as it aims to keep down the number of foreigners working in the city-state, Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam told Reuters.

Russia, North Korea to settle trade in rubles in bid to increase trade

(Reuters) - Russia and North Korea will begin settling their trade bills in rubles this month rather than dollars to facilitate trade between the two countries with a goal of reaching $1 billion by 2020, Russian news agencies said on Thursday.

Singapore Says 1,560 Online Identification Accounts Breached

The Singapore government said its online identifications issued to residents to access services including personal income tax filings and pension savings statements may have been tampered with.

Japan reviews pension system, paving way for new GPIF allocations

The Philippine peso fell the most in a week on concern a slump in government spending will deepen the nation’s economic slowdown.

Growth in China's service sector picks up

China's service sector grew at its fastest pace in six months in May, helping allay fears of a sharp slowdown in its economy.

Rupiah Falls to 3-Month Low on Widest Trade Deficit Since July

Indonesia’s rupiah extended its drop to a three-month low after the nation reported the widest trade deficit in nine months.

China official PMI hits five-month high in May, boding well for second quarter

(Reuters) - China's factory activity expanded at the fastest pace in five months in May due to rising new orders, official data showed on Sunday, reinforcing views that the world's second-largest economy is regaining momentum in the second quarter following Beijing's targeted measures to bolster growth.

India Growth Below 5% Adds Pressure on Modi to Spur Investment

India’s economy grew less than 5 percent for a second quarter, adding pressure on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to spur investment after winning the strongest electoral mandate in 30 years.

South Korea April industrial output weak, clouds economic outlook

(Reuters) - South Korea's industrial output rose at a much slower pace than expected in April, dampening the economic recovery, as temporary factors such as a sinking of a ferry last month had a chilling effect on consumer sentiment.

Japan retail sales fall after tax increase

Retail sales in Japan fell 4.4% in April, compared with the same period last year, as the effect of an increase in the country's sales tax began to be felt.

India central bank chief reiterates call for global monetary coordination

(Reuters) - India's central bank chief, Raghuram Rajan, reiterated on Wednesday what he said is the need for global central banks to be mindful of the impact of their unconventional monetary policy measures on other economies.

South Korea May consumer sentiment slips to eight-month low

(Reuters) - South Korea's composite consumer sentiment index in May slipped to its lowest in eight months, dampening hopes for a firm recovery in domestic consumption in Asia's fourth-largest economy, central bank data showed on Tuesday.

Japan’s Risk of Inflation With Low Growth Raises Stakes for Abe

Japan’s risk of spurring inflation without boosting the nation’s growth potential is raising the stakes for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s next round of economic restructuring measures, due in June.

Philippines bubble risks under control: Finance Secretary

Record low interest rates in the Philippines have raised concerns over potential asset bubbles in Southeast Asia's fastest growing economy, however the country's finance secretary said these risks are under control.

Japan government ups capex view, economy recovering

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's government raised its view on capital spending for the first time in four months in May on the back of firms' positive earnings, showing the economy remains resilient despite some negative impact from a sales tax hike last month.

U.S. wins car import duties trade case against China

(Reuters) - The United States has won a trade dispute with China over duties slapped on U.S. exports of large cars and sport utility vehicles, the World Trade Organization said on Friday.

Vietnam Offers Help To Companies Hit By Riots

HANOI, Vietnam (AP) -- Vietnam on Thursday pledged to help companies whose factories were targeted during anti-Chinese riots last week, offering tax breaks and other incentives to try and undo some of the damage to its reputation as a low-risk country for foreign manufacturers.

Can Modi get India's economy back on track?

Narendra Modi is being swept into office as India's prime minister on a wave of optimism about his ability to restore the fortunes of Asia's third biggest economy.

Kazakhstan’s $2.7 Billion Offer Lures International Lenders

Kazakhstan is providing 500 billion tenge ($2.7 billion) tapped from its oil fund to attract co-financing from international lenders for an economic overhaul.

Russia Seeks China Gas Deal at Shanghai Meeting

OAO Gazprom, the world’s largest natural gas producer, rose in Moscow as it continued talks in China on a $400 billion gas supply deal.

China says faster economic reforms needed

(Reuters) - China will try to quicken the pace of economic reform this year as part of the government's efforts to arrest a slowdown in the world's second-largest economy, the country's top economic planning agency said late on Saturday.

Asia stocks sunk by mixed reports on world economy

HONG KONG (AP) — Asian stocks sank Friday as markets took a cue from Wall Street, which had a big sell-off after a batch of mixed reports on the global economy.

Malaysia’s Economy Grew Faster Than Estimated Last Quarter

Malaysia’s economy grew at the fastest pace in five quarters amid an export recovery, increasing scope for the central bank to raise interest rates and contain threats to financial stability.

Japan posts strong growth ahead of sales tax rise

Japan's economy grew at the fastest pace in nearly three years in the first quarter due to increased spending ahead of a sales tax increase on 1 April.

China growth target vulnerable as economy's momentum fades

(Reuters) - China might miss its economic growth target for the first time in 15 years as data points to a sharper-than-expected loss of momentum and top leaders are talking about a "new normal" of slower growth.

India's new government must wrestle with weak output, inflation

(Reuters) - India's ailing economy showed little sign of improvement on Monday, trapped in a spell of weak growth and high inflation when the country is on the cusp of political change that is widely expected to script an economic revival.

China to build new East Africa railway line

Formal agreements for plans to build a new railway line in East Africa with Chinese help have been signed in the Kenyan capital Nairobi.

Xi Says China Must Adapt to ‘New Normal’ of Slower Growth

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the nation needs to adapt to a ``new normal'' in the pace of economic growth and remain “cool-minded” amid a slowdown in expansion.

Thai Protesters Target TV Networks in Bid to Topple Government

Thai anti-government demonstrators marched to Government House and the offices of the nation’s biggest television networks to increase pressure on the caretaker government to step down.

China-Hong Kong Data Mismatch Narrows: Chart of the Day

The mismatch between bilateral trade data reported by Hong Kong (HKETBOT) and China has narrowed in the last year, signaling that efforts to stop fake invoices worked and China’s April exports may have risen more than figures showed.

China to close more steel capacity, though still small fraction

(Reuters) - China has raised its target to close outdated steel smelting capacity to 28.7 million tons in 2014, the industry ministry said on Thursday, as it tries to rein in inefficient and polluting industries.

Japan's Amari - BOJ is playing key role in economy recovery

LONDON (Reuters) - Japan's Economy Minister Akira Amari said on Wednesday the Bank of Japan plays a key role in supporting the country's recovery by trying to achieve its 2 percent inflation target.

Indonesia first-quarter growth slowest in 4 years as political risks loom

(Reuters) - Indonesia's economy grew at its slowest in more than four years in the first quarter as a mineral export ban, successive interest rate rises and uncertainty over upcoming presidential elections unnerved investors.

India silk weavers hang on by thread, plead for rescue

Varanasi (India) (AFP) - Its saris have been a byword for sartorial elegance for centuries and even the Buddha was laid to rest veiled in a brocade of silk hand-woven in India's holiest city Varanasi, according to local legend.

China's April services growth quickens slightly: government survey

(Reuters) - Growth in China's services sector accelerated slightly in April as new orders held steady, an official survey showed, an encouraging sign of strength in an economy that otherwise faces a cloudy outlook.

Australia to raise retirement age to 70 by 2035, Treasurer says

(Reuters) - Australian Treasurer Joe Hockey said on Friday that his government would seek to raise the retirement age to 70 by the year 2035 as part of reforms aimed at stemming what they warn is a looming "fiscal crisis."

Asia Subdued Ahead Of US Jobs Data, Japan Holiday

TOKYO (AP) — Global markets were mixed Friday ahead of a release of key U.S. jobs data, with the benchmark for the Tokyo Stock Exchange closing little changed.

BOJ Inflation Confidence Seen Cutting Chance of Stimulus

The confidence Bank of Japan officials are demonstrating in achieving their inflation target is lowering the chances of additional monetary easing this year even as the economy weakens.

With no real government, can Thailand escape recession?

(Reuters) - Some bold assumptions about a rapid end to a six-month political crisis are all that stand between Thailand and its first real recession since the global financial crisis.

China adds tax breaks to help jobs, warns on bad loan risk

(Reuters) - China's Finance Ministry said on Tuesday that it would extend tax breaks for job creation, as the government seeks to boost the labor market, while the banking regulator warned slowing economic growth raised the risk of bad loans.

Japan Display Falls Below IPO Price After Forecast Miss

Japan Display Inc. (6740) plunged to 25 percent below last month’s initial public offering price in Tokyo trading after reporting preliminary earnings that missed its forecasts.

China aims to build over 7 million public homes this year

BEIJING (Reuters) - China aims to start building more than 7 million units of public housing this year, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development said on Saturday, signaling the latest government move to counter high property prices.

India's growth prospects dim regardless of election outcome - Reuters Poll

BANGALORE (Reuters) - Prospects for a strong economic rebound in India are dim as industry remains weak, and although a business-friendly opposition party looks likely to form a new government, its ability to pass sweeping reforms is in doubt, a Reuters poll showed.

Asian economic growth to languish this year, China the worry: Reuters poll

(Reuters) - Growth in emerging Asian countries will be lackluster this year and contribute less to the global economy, despite signs of recovery in the region's major trading partners in the West, Reuters polls showed on Friday.

South Korea economic growth beats forecasts

South Korea's economy grew more than forecast in the first quarter, helped by a jump in construction and exports. Asia's fourth-largest economy expanded by 3.9% in the January-to-March quarter from a year earlier.

Thailand Central Bank Refrains From Rate Cut as Unrest Persists

Thailand kept its key interest rate unchanged today, pausing after a cut last month as the central bank assessed the impact of the reduction and a political deadlock on the economy.

Japan Urged to Start Cutting Corporate Tax Next Year: Economy

Japan could cut its corporate tax rate as early as next fiscal year by 2 to 3 percentage points, gradually lowering the levy toward 25 percent in later years to boost the nation’s competitiveness, a tax panel member said.

China shares drop over 1 percent, economy worries weigh

BEIJING (Reuters) - China stocks dropped more than 1 percent on Monday, hit by concerns about a potential share oversupply after the securities regulator released draft prospectuses for 28 new firms planning to list, marking the resumption of IPOs after a two-month hiatus.

Japan logs record trade deficit in 2013 - MOF

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese exports rose 15.3 percent in December but imports outpaced shipments due to a weak yen and subsequent higher fuel import costs, resulting in a record trade deficit for 2013, Ministry of Finance data showed on Monday.

Asia's Week: Japan's Rebound Gets More Taxing

Another calamitous loss of human life gripped Asia’s attention this week, relegating economic matters to secondary notice.

In Bihar, Economic Concerns Are Tied Up in Caste Politics

PATNA, India — In Bihar, one of the poorest states in India, voters in this year’s elections have the economy foremost on their minds, but in a state where the most socially disadvantaged sections of society make up a majority of voters, even economic issues are tied up with caste politics.

BOJ keeps upbeat view on regional Japan, sees limited tax hike impact

(Reuters) - The Bank of Japan maintained its upbeat view on most of the country's regional economies, adding to reassurances from its governor that the world's third-largest economy can ride out the pain from a sales tax hike without additional stimulus.

China's economy grows 7.4% in 2014 Q1, better than forecast

China's economy expanded by 7.4% in the first quarter of the year, better than what many were expecting.

Australia's Sydney gets second airport

Australia has approved the construction of a second international airport in Sydney at the cost of $2.4bn (£1.4bn).

USIBC Welcomes Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan

The U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) today hosted the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Dr. Raghuram Rajan, for a private meeting of top executives from global financial services companies and institutional investors.

Japan Inflation Acceleration Risks Souring Public on Abenomics

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s bid to vault Japan out of 15 years of deflation risks losing public support by spurring too much inflation too quickly as companies add extra price increases to this month’s sales-tax bump.

Asia to rekindle bank capital love affair

LONDON, April 11 (IFR) - Asian investors may start buying large chunks of bank capital deals again due to the shift in market dynamics, but with many hurdles still in the way, a repeat of the 2012 heyday will be difficult.

China Normal Growth Needs Only Minor Policy Changes: Zhou

China’s central bank chief said the nation needs only minor policy adjustments when growth is within a normal range, adding to signals that the government will avoid taking broader action to counter a slowdown.

South Asia Needs to Focus Attention on Domestic Risks

The World Bank said it was cautiously optimistic about economic prospects in South Asia in 2014 because of growing exports and investment as it emphasized that the risks to growth were becoming more domestic, including an increasingly vulnerable banking sector.

China's March exports shrink, adding to danger of job losses as economy slows

BEIJING – China's exports unexpectedly fell in March, raising the danger of job losses as Beijing tries to overhaul its slowing economy.

Japan PM Abe: Will further work on corporate tax reform

(Reuters) - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday that he will further work on corporate tax reform this year to make it internationally competitive.

India Begins World's Largest Election

GAUHATI, India (AP) — India started the world's largest election Monday, sealing international borders along its remote northeast while voters made their way past lush rice paddies and over rickety bamboo bridges and pot-holed dirt roads to reach the polls.

China to close nearly two thousand small coal mines

(Reuters) - China will close 1,725 small-scale mines with a total capacity of 117.48 million tonnes in 2014 as part of its programme to phase out low-quality coal production, its energy administration said on Friday.

Vietnam Construction Loans to Spur Property Sales: SBV

Vietnam’s central bank and five state-run lenders are drawing up a loan package to bolster the struggling property market and help spur economic growth. Real estate stocks rose.

China regulator to require bank stress tests: paper

(Reuters) - The China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) has said it will conduct regional and national stress tests after banks saw a spike in bad loans last year, the Shanghai Securities News reported on Friday, reflecting growing concerns over credit risk.

Singapore Widens Stock-Trade Probe; Magnus, Innopac Drop

Singapore authorities widened their share-trading probe to include executives from two more companies as the police and central bank investigate a rout that wiped $6.9 billion of market value in October.

China Outlines Measures to Support Growth as Goal Recedes

China outlined a package of measures including railway spending and tax relief to support the economy and create jobs after a slowdown endangered Premier Li Keqiang’s target of 7.5 percent growth this year.

Japan firms doubt BOJ price targets, new stimulus seen

(Reuters) - Corporate Japan expects the consumer price index to be just 1.5 percent higher in a year from now, a Bank of Japan tankan survey found on Wednesday -- a sign of how difficult the central bank could find meeting its 2 percent inflation goal by the April 2015 target date.

Asia's manufacturing powers stutter, stir talk of policy support

(Reuters) - Asia's major economies finished the first quarter on a weak note with manufacturing surveys in China and Japan fuelling expectations that policymakers will be forced to act in coming months to prop up faltering growth.

Vietnam’s First-Quarter GDP Growth Slows as Lending Hobbled

Vietnam’s growth slowed in the first quarter as the government failed to spur lending to businesses as banks struggled with bad debt.

Asian Stocks Cap Biggest Weekly Gain in Almost a Year

Asian stocks rose this week, with the regional benchmark rebounding from two weekly losses to post its biggest advance in almost a year, as finance shares led gains.

Toyota employees refuse to return to work at India plants

Workers at Toyota's two Indian plants have refused to return to work this week, after the Japanese car firm said it was ending a lockout that it had instituted on 16 March.

Philippines Raises Reserve Ratio as Rate Increase Seen Nearing

The Philippine central bank ordered lenders to set aside more money as reserves to curb liquidity, a move that analysts say could signal increases in the benchmark interest rate in the coming months.

Japan Amari: BOJ can maximize policy impact by 'surprising' markets

(Reuters) - Aiming for a surprise effect is one way the Bank of Japan can maximize the impact of any further monetary easing, Economics Minister Akira Amari said on Wednesday, saying that the central bank still had a role to play in ensuring a sustained end to deflation.

This major lender sees India growth at 8% in 5 years

India's battered economy could return to its glory days of growth above 8 percent, the chief financial officer of HDFC, one of India's largest lenders, told CNBC.

Hong Kong's soaring bank exposure to China sparks credit concerns

(Reuters) - In just a few years, Hong Kong banks have ramped up lending to China from near zero to $430 billion, fuelling concerns about their credit exposure to the mainland at a time when sliding economic growth and defaults are making investors nervous.

Korea Exchange Seeks Cut of $3 Billion Illegal Gold Trade

South Korea’s equity exchange will start offering physical gold trades for the first time today, as the government seeks to curb as much as $3 billion of black-market transactions.

Asia's Week: Push Is Coming to Economic Shove in China

Mass media were focused on Michelle Obama and family on their Chinese tour, but at the business desks this was a more dour week in China.

India’s Chidambaram Won’t Seek Re-Election as Son to Contest

India’s Finance Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram won’t seek re-election to the lower house of parliament in elections starting next month as his son will contest for the first time in his constituency.

BOJ's Kuroda: High chance BOJ to meet its inflation target

(Reuters) - Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda said on Thursday there is a high chance that consumer prices will reach the central bank's 2 percent inflation target sometime from the end of fiscal 2014 to the beginning of fiscal 2015.

Asia business sentiment improves in first-quarter, global worries continue to weigh

SEOUL (Reuters) - Business sentiment among Asia's top companies edged up in the first quarter, as solid improvement in the Philippines and South Korea outweighed weakness in China, India and Australia amid persistent concerns over the global economy, a ThomsonReuters/INSEAD survey showed.

Japan drags down global music market

A sharp decline in music consumption in Japan caused overall global growth to slow down in 2013, according to figures from the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).

Toyota Suspends Output at India Plants on Wage Impasse

Toyota Motor Corp. (7203), the world’s largest automaker, said it’s suspending production in India after an impasse with union workers over wages led to output disruptions and threats to plant managers.

Japan February exports seen accelerating; trade gap to narrow

(Reuters) - Japan's export growth is forecast to have accelerated in February as shipments recovered from a Lunar New Year slowdown, which along with slower import growth is expected see the trade deficit narrow from record levels, a Reuters poll shows.

ASIA MARKETS: Asian Shares Weaker; Tokyo Stocks Tumble

A sharp slowdown in China's economy is rattling Asia's largest stock markets, with Japan falling 3.1% Friday and Hong Kong set for its worst week in nearly two years.

India's wholesale inflation eases to 9-month low, rates seen on hold for now

(Reuters) - India's wholesale price-based inflation eased to a nine-month low in February as food and fuel prices moderated, raising expectations that the central bank would leave interest rates unchanged at its policy review next month.

China output and retail data adds to slowdown fears

China's industrial output rose 8.6% in January and February, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

South Korea unemployment rate hits three-year high in jobseeker surge

(Reuters) - South Korea's seasonally adjusted unemployment spiked to a three-year high in February as job seekers flooded the labor market and the number of people in work hit its highest level in 15 years in an encouraging signal for the country's economy.

China becomes world's second largest agricultural insurance market

BEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- China has become the world's second largest agricultural insurance market after the United States, the country's insurance regulator said on Tuesday.

Malaysia Mystery Could Briefly Add to Flying Fears

The mystery surrounding Malaysia Airlines flight 370 might make people a little more fearful about flying, but experts say it likely will be temporary — and you shouldn’t expect your flights to be significantly emptier as a result.

Japan's deficit hits record as economic growth slows

Japan's current account deficit widened to a record 1.5tn yen ($15bn; £8.7bn) in January, the largest since records began in 1985. In further bad news, the country's economic growth figures were also revised downwards.

China February inflation tame, room for policy easing

(Reuters) - China's consumer prices rose at their slowest rate in 13 months in February as pork prices fell by their most in over a year, a sign that slowing growth rather than rising prices poses a bigger risk to the world's second-biggest economy.

India Bonds Head for Best Week Since January on Inflow Optimism

India’s 10-year government bonds headed for the best week since January on optimism demand for debt will pick up as the nation’s current-account deficit shrinks and geopolitical tensions ease.

Emerging markets output growth slows to five-month low in Feb - survey

(Reuters) - Business activity across emerging markets expanded in February at the slowest pace in five months, weighed down by weaker manufacturing in big developing countries such as Russia and China, a survey showed on Thursday.

China signals focus on reforms and leaner, cleaner growth

(Reuters) - China sent its strongest signal yet that its days of chasing breakneck economic growth were over, promising to wage a "war" on pollution and reduce the pace of investment to a decade-low as it pursues more sustainable expansion.

Japan January wages fall in blow to battle against deflation

(Reuters) - Japanese wage earners' total cash earnings fell in January for the first time in three months, data showed on Tuesday, in a sign the government may be struggling to convince companies to pay higher salaries.

South Korea nominates Lee Ju-yeol as Bank of Korea head

South Korea's President, Park Geun-hye, has nominated former bank deputy Lee Ju-yeol to succeed Kim Choong-soo as governor of the Bank of Korea on 1 April.

Japan Capex Up 4.0% During October-December

TOKYO--Capital investment spending by Japanese corporations increased by 4.0% from year-ago levels during the October- December quarter, a government survey used in the revision of gross domestic product figures showed Monday.

China targets speculators as yuan slides again

China let its currency fall sharply again Friday, sending another clear message to speculators that the yuan is not a one-way bet.

Asia stocks mixed ahead of Yellen testimony; Nikkei falls 0.3%

Asian stock markets were mixed on Thursday, as investors looked ahead to testimony from Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen in front of the Senate later in the day for clues regarding the future of course of U.S. monetary policy.

North Korea Short-Range Missile Launches Disrupt Easing Tensions

North Korea fired four short-range missiles, the first confirmed launch in more than nine months, disrupting a period of easing tensions with the South.

BOJ's Ishida: recovery on track even if GDP falls after tax hike

(Reuters) - Japan's recovery will remain on track even if the economy contracts in the second quarter after sales tax is raised on April 1, a Bank of Japan board member said on Wednesday.

India to block U.S. trade probes, ready for fight at WTO

New Delhi is furious about a threat of trade sanctions made by the U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) office over its protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), preference for domestic producers and non-trade barriers.

Thai Farmers Lose Pickup Trucks as Protests Raise Debt Risk

Koon Thaveepat is in danger of losing his pickup truck and his livelihood. He’s behind on loan payments as Thailand’s anti-government protests delay state rice-purchase payments, threatening to plunge thousands of farmers deeper into debt.

China must drop 'mindset of expansionism' over Arunachal Pradesh: India's Modi

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Narendra Modi, the leading candidate to be India's next prime minister after a forthcoming election, declared the disputed territory of Arunachal Pradesh an integral part of India on Saturday and urged China to abandon its "mindset of expansion".

US-led Pacific trade pact under discussion in Singapore

Singapore (AFP) - Asia Pacific trade ministers began a fresh round of talks in Singapore on Saturday for a huge US-led Pacific free trade area, hoping to conclude a deal this year after missing a deadline in 2013.

Japan factory output seen up, core inflation near five-year highs

(Reuters) - Growth in Japan's factory output likely accelerated in January and core inflation hovered near five-year highs, a Reuters poll showed, underscoring the ongoing economic recovery despite fears that momentum may soon start to fade.

Asia stocks fall on weak China data, Fed minutes

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A contraction in Chinese manufacturing and the possibility of higher U.S. interest rates dragged most Asian stock markets lower Thursday.

Singapore Riot Damages More Than S$650,000 of Government Assets

A Dec. 8 riot in Singapore’s Little India district, the city’s worst violence in more than four decades, damaged at least S$650,000 ($515,000) of government property, a public inquiry was told.

China January foreign direct investment rises in sign of confidence

(Reuters) - China drew $10.76 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) in January, up 16.1 percent from a year earlier, the Commerce Ministry said on Tuesday, a sign that confidence in the world's second-largest economy remains firm even as growth cools.

Japan's economy grows at slower pace, raises stakes for Abenomics

(Reuters) - Japan's economy grew at a much slower pace than expected at the end of last year, posing a challenge to policymakers as massive government stimulus efforts showed few signs of sparking momentum in consumption and exports.

Asia's Week: Modi, The Hindus And An Indian Sunrise

India is now occupying even American minds. The U.S. State Department is warming to Gujarat chief minister Narendra Modi as he looms the favorite in the spring national elections.

Japan May Cancel Solar Projects on Concern Delays Are Deliberate

Japan is considering canceling approvals for delayed solar-power projects following reports that some developers are putting off construction while they wait for equipment costs to come down.

China's consumer inflation holds steady at 2.5%

China's inflation rate remained subdued in January, despite rising food prices during the New Year celebrations.

India Consumer Inflation, Factory Output Fall After Rate Rises

India’s consumer-price growth eased more than analysts estimated in January and factory output fell in December following an increase in interest rates as central bank Governor Raghuram Rajan fights Asia’s fastest inflation.

Malaysia's economy grew 5.1 percent in 4Q

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) — Malaysia's central bank said Wednesday the country's economy grew a faster-than-expected 5.1 percent in the fourth quarter of last year.

5 ways China's slowdown will ripple across globe

BEIJING (AP) — The reaction was slow in coming, but financial markets and corporate bosses have been jolted awake to China's relentless growth decline and are scrambling to cope with wrenching changes in global business.

Kerry to visit China, South Korea, Indonesia and Abu Dhabi

(Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will begin a trip this week to China, South Korea, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates, the State Department said on Sunday, at a time of high tensions in Asia over China's increasingly assertive territorial claims.

India Predicts Climb From Decade-Low GDP Growth Amid Risks

Gross domestic product will rise 4.9 percent in the 12 months through March 31, compared with the decade-low 4.5 percent in the previous fiscal year, the Statistics Ministry said in New Delhi yesterday.

China Must Tolerate Some Volatility in Market Rates, PBOC Says

China’s central bank said reasonable volatility in money-market interest rates must be tolerated as it manages liquidity in the country’s financial system to rein in credit growth.

Japan January trade deficit on track to reach record: MOF

(Reuters) - Japan is on track to post a record trade deficit in January, preliminary data showed on Friday, in a warning sign that consistently weak export demand could weigh on economic growth.

As Prices Rise, Philippine Banker Fires Warning Shot on Rates

Just days ago, Philippine central bank governor Amando Tetangco waded into the debate over how policy makers should react to the turmoil in emerging markets, warning that tinkering with policy interest rates is “not necessarily the most appropriate response at this time.”

Indonesia’s Growth Beats Estimates as Rebound Seen Faltering

Indonesia’s economic growth unexpectedly quickened last quarter after an export rebound, an acceleration that may be short-lived as higher interest rates weigh on domestic consumption and investment.

Australia central bank shuts door on rate cuts, A$ surges

(Reuters) - Australia's central bank kept its main cash rate at a record low of 2.5 percent on Tuesday as widely expected but surprised some by saying further cuts were not in the cards - dropping its bias towards easing policy.

Asia stocks slip, euro stuck near ten-week lows

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Asian shares were slowly giving ground on Monday as strains in emerging markets show little sign of abating, while growing pressure for another policy easing in Europe shoved the euro to 10-week lows.

China Faces Obstacles on Road to Consumer Society

Business should be picking up for Zhao Guoping, a Beijing shopkeeper, as Chinese leaders try to build a consumer society to replace a worn-out economic model based on trade and investment.

Japan inflation quickens to over 5-year high, output rebounds

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's core consumer inflation rose at the fastest pace in more than five years in December and the job market improved, encouraging signs for the Bank of Japan as it seeks to vanquish deflation with aggressive money printing.

Hague says Britain eyeing increased role in Asia

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Britain is looking at increasing its involvement in Asia's economy and security but will not take sides in territorial disputes in the South China Sea involving China and its smaller neighbors, British Foreign Secretary William Hague said Thursday.

Asia shares lurch lower, China data darkens mood

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Asian shares fell on Thursday after strains in emerging markets returned with a vengeance and the Federal Reserve stepped back on its stimulus, sending investors scurrying to the safety of bonds and yen.

India's central bank hikes key interest rate

NEW DELHI (AP) -- India's central bank raised its key interest rate for the third time in four months Tuesday and its governor said combating stubbornly high inflation is the top priority despite an "increasingly worrisome" slowdown in economic growth.

China’s Foreign-Reserves Investment Chief Said to Depart

China’s official in charge of investing the world’s largest foreign-exchange reserves left the government agency that oversees the holdings, according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation.

Japan reports record annual trade deficit

Japan has reported a record annual trade deficit after the weak yen pushed up the cost of energy imports. Its deficit rose to 11.5 trillion yen ($112bn; £68bn) in 2013 - a 65% jump from a year ago.

Time Is Running Out for Thailand's Embattled Government

Will they or won’t they? Thais are waiting to hear whether elections scheduled for Feb. 2 will take place as planned.

Japan's Abe: I am beating deflation

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe says his country is winning the battle against deflation, the persistent low prices that have plagued Japan's economy for years.

Weakness in Asian economies seen persisting in 2014, China weighs

(Reuters) - Emerging Asian economies will contribute less to global growth in 2014 than earlier expected even as their major trading partners in the West show signs of recovery, a Reuters poll showed on Friday.

China's solar industry rebounds, but will boom-bust cycle repeat?

(Reuters) - China's solar panel industry is showing signs of booming again after a prolonged downturn - raising fears of another bust when the splurge of public money that is driving a spike in demand dries up.

Japan's scrambles against Chinese planes soar

(Reuters) - Japanese fighter jets scrambled against Chinese planes a record number of times in April-December, the Defence Ministry said on Tuesday, as Sino-Japanese ties are strained by an island spat and disputes stemming from Tokyo's wartime past.

Asia Pacific PC Shipments Fell 10% In 2013, IDC Says

PC shipments in Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) fell by 10% in 2013 to 108 million units, marking the region’s first ever double digit decline in recent years, according to IDC.

China Migrant Workers Face Hardship of Separation From Children

Yang Wei, 26, and his wife share a small apartment in the manufacturing hub of Dongguan, in the Pearl River Delta. Every morning they bicycle a few kilometers to their jobs at two electronics components plants.

Asian banks top project finance deals in 2013

LONDON: Japanese and other Asian banks cemented their positions as the lead arrangers for project-financing deals last year while several big European banks continued to retreat from the business as they shrink their balance sheets.

China's big polluters exceed emission limits - report

(Reuters) - Online emissons figures reported by most coal-fired power plants and factories in China surpassed government limits, a group of NGOs and research institutes said, warning that the situation is likely to worsen in July, when targets get tougher.

Singapore Home Sales Drop to Lowest Since 2009 on Toughest Curbs

Singapore’s home sales plunged 82 percent in December from a year ago, ending the year at the lowest since 2009, as the government implemented its toughest measures to curb record prices.

US challenges China over hi-tech steel imports

The US has accused China of failing to comply with a World Trade Organization directive requiring it to drop duties on hi-tech US steel imports.

Indonesia's hotly-contested mineral ban takes effect

Indonesia has pushed through a hotly-contested ban on raw minerals exports after making last-minute concessions for the country's two biggest miners.

India inflation probably eased in December, thanks to lower food prices

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's stubbornly high inflation finally appears to be slowing down following a cooling in vegetable prices, bringing some relief to the ruling Congress party which is struggling to win back voters ahead of a national election due by May.

Japan households less upbeat on economy despite 'Abenomics' - BOJ survey

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japanese households are less optimistic about the economy, a quarterly central bank survey showed, underscoring deep-rooted doubts over whether Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's stimulus policies will boost wages enough to make up for the rising cost of living.

India Factory Output Unexpectedly Falls as Recovery Flounders

India’s industrial output (INPIINDY) unexpectedly declined in November, adding pressure on Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to bolster the economy ahead of elections this year.

Auto sales in China see double-digit growth

BEIJING: After virtual stagnation for the last two years, vehicle sales in China rose 13.87 per cent in 2013 from a year earlier to 21.98 million units bringing cheer to the auto industry.

Japan and India eye closer air force links

NEW DELHI — Japan and India moved to expand air force ties before Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visits New Delhi in a few weeks, bolstering relations two months after China declared an air-defense identification zone in a disputed area.

Vietnam Raises Foreign Bank Ownership Caps to Aid System

Vietnam will allow foreign investors to take bigger stakes in the nation’s lenders in a bid to bolster the ailing banking system.

Japan automakers accelerate China sales despite tensions

TOKYO: Two of Japan's top automakers today reported record sales in China last year, after an anti-Japanese consumer boycott depressed demand in the world's largest vehicle market in 2012.

China's GDP growth in 2013 set to be weakest since 1999

BEIJING: China's economy, the world's second largest, may have grown around 7.6 per cent in 2013, its weakest growth since 1999, with latest economic figures indicating sluggish economic activities in the last quarter.

India's PM Singh stepping down this summer after 10 years

NEW DELHI -- India's prime minister announced Friday he would step aside after 10 years following this summer's general election, saying Rahul Gandhi should replace him if the ruling Congress Party manages to stay in power.

China factories lose some of their mojo

China's factories lost some momentum in December, adding to worries that growth in the world's second-largest economy may soften in the new year.

Taiwan's Ma says ending China standoff a must for the economy

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Ending Taiwan's political standoff with mainland China is necessary to boost Taiwan's sagging economy and to help it integrate more effectively with the region, the island's president, Ma Ying-jeou, said.

Singapore GDP Contracted Last Quarter as Output Eased: Economy

Singapore’s economy shrank for the first time in five quarters after its manufacturing and services industries weakened, a contraction that may be short-lived as the global recovery strengthens.

China $3 trillion local government debt stirs alarm

BEIJING: Calls for China to accelerate financial reforms grew louder on Monday after figures showed its indebted local governments owe nearly $3 trillion in a debt build-up that some analysts called alarming.