Bank of Korea: To Prioritize Economic Recovery at 2013 Rate Reviews

SEOUL--The Bank of Korea said Thursday it will prioritize economic recovery when it reviews its official interest rate each month next year, and be vigilant toward consumer price inflation, which has shown signs of easing recently.

Japan December manufacturing PMI at lowest level in over 3 years

TOKYO: Japanese manufacturing activity contracted in December at the fastest pace in more than three years, a survey showed on Friday, as companies focused on drawing down inventories due to a mild recession at home and weak demand for exports.

Philippines Joins Korea in Restraining Currency Gains: Economy

The Philippines intensified efforts to contain a surging peso, joining South Korea in clamping down on currency forward positions as monetary stimulus in the world’s biggest developed economies spurs capital flows to Asia.

South Korea president-elect urges chaebol think twice before layoffs

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's president-elect asked the leaders of the country's big businesses, or chaebol, on Wednesday to think twice before cutting jobs, saying it was time for the conglomerates her father helped build four decades ago to look beyond profits.

India, China key to growth in 2013 as global economy stares at fiscal cliff

NEW DELHI: India and China will be key for the global economy to grow by even a modest three per cent in 2013, after bouts of debt turmoils across continents pushed it to fiscal precipice and an anaemic growth rate in 2012 left policymakers and politicians at crossroads.

Japan Abe aide: No need to revise Bank of Japan law if it meets expectations

(Reuters) - An aide to Japan's next Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Friday that there would be no need to revise the Bank of Japan law as long as the central bank met the party's expectations for a 2 percent inflation target and more aggressive monetary easing.

China Economy Better Than Expected

The world’s No. 2 economy is better than early forecasts have suggested. On Wednesday, the World Bank upped the ante for China GDP, saying it would grow at 8.4 percent instead of their previous forecast of 8.1 percent.

Japan's incoming PM to send envoy to China: report

TOKYO: Japan's incoming prime minister Shinzo Abe will send a special envoy to China on a fence-mending mission, a report said today, after he announced plans to dispatch an emissary on a similar trip to South Korea.

India's Stocks on the Rise, Economy to Accelerate: Two ETFs Get You There

In the five years through 2011 India’s economy delivered on its promise as an emerging growth bellwether, rising nearly 125%.

U.S.-China talks to yield "incremental" progress: Vilsack

(Reuters) - The United States expects only "incremental" progress on longstanding farm trade issues in high-level talks with China on Wednesday, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.

India's economy grows at slowest rate in decade

India's economy will grow by about 5.8% this year, representing the slowest rate of growth in a decade, according to revised official forecasts.

South Korea votes in tight race on economy and jobs

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Koreans vote for a new president on Wednesday against a backdrop of a hostile North Korea and a slowing economy, in a battle between the daughter of a former military ruler and a man her father jailed decades ago for political activism.

EU and Singapore agree free trade deal

(Reuters) - The European Union and Singapore agreed terms of a free trade deal on Sunday, a move that should further open the Asian country's markets for financial services and make it easier for European automakers to export there.

China, US factory data improves but global risks remain

NEW YORK: China's vast manufacturing sector grew in early December and US factories were having their best month since April, surveys showed on Friday, adding to hopes that the world's top two economies were on the mend.

Insight: Japan largely excludes foreign firms in Fukushima clean-up

(Reuters) - Nearly two years after a massive earthquake and tsunami caused meltdowns at the Fukushima nuclear plant, Japan is failing to keep a pledge to tap global expertise to decommission its crippled reactors, executives at nuclear contractors from the United States and Europe say.

India mulls probe into Wal-Mart lobbying

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI (Reuters) - India's government said it was prepared to launch an inquiry into lobbying by Wal-Mart Stores Inc., buckling under an opposition campaign to discredit a flagship economic policy.

U.S. intelligence sees Asia's global power rising by 2030

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China's economy is likely to surpass the United States in less than two decades while Asia will overtake North America and Europe combined in global power by 2030, a U.S. intelligence report said on Monday.

Japan falls into recession

Japan – the world's third largest economy – has fallen into recession, hit by sluggish exports to China.

China sees both industrial output and retail sales rise

China's economic growth rate may be gathering pace again, as the government released strong industrial output and retail sales figures.

India Central Bank: To Suggest Steps To Reduce Demand For Gold Imports

India's central bank will soon release a report making recommendations on how to reduce demand for gold imports, which would help improve the country's trade balance, a top central bank official said Saturday.

Fiscal cliff remains key driver in markets

LONDON (AP) — Uncertainty over the progress of a U.S. budget deal capped the advance in most stock markets Thursday as did a downbeat economic assessment from the European Central Bank and renewed political uncertainty in Italy.

China economy may grow 8.2 per cent in 2013: Top think-tank

BEIJING: China's economic growth may quicken to 8.2 percent in 2013 from an expected 7.7 per cent this year in response to official growth-promoting polices, but downside risk remains from global uncertainties, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) said on Wednesday.

Japan Q3 GDP shrank slightly less than initial estimate: Poll

TOKYO: Japan's economy likely shrank at a slightly slower pace in the third quarter than the government initially estimated because a fall in capital spending by firms may have been less than measured in preliminary data, according to a Reuters poll.

India parliament holds economic reforms debate

India's parliament is holding a debate on the government's controversial decision to open the retail sector to foreign competition.

Chinese industrial upswing cheers markets

LONDON (AP) — News that manufacturing activity in China, the world's second largest economy, grew for the first time in 13 months helped push global stocks higher on Monday.

China to meet 7.5% economic growth this year despite global slowdown: Official

BEIJING: China will meet its target for annual economic growth of 7.5 per cent this year despite the impact of the global slowdown, state media quoted a top trade official as saying Wednesday.

Japan’s Retail Sales Fall in October as Car Sales Drop

Japan’s retail sales fell in October by the most in 11 months as consumers purchased fewer cars and televisions, adding pressure on the government to stimulate an economy that may be entering a recession.

Philippines economic growth better than forecast

The Philippines economy grew more than forecast in the third quarter, boosted by increased consumer and government spending and a recovery in exports.

China’s industrial profit rebounds in October

HONG KONG (MarketWatch) — Chinese industrial companies’ profits jumped in October — rising more than 20% from a year earlier and nudging into positive territory for the first 10 months of the year — bolstering a bullish view on the future of Chinese corporations and the broader economy.

India fails to break parliament deadlock over supermarket reform

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's government failed on Monday to defuse a row with the opposition over opening up the supermarket sector to foreign chains, a decision that has thrown parliament into chaos and endangered fresh economic reforms.

Asia stocks post slight gains after Black Friday

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets posted slight gains Monday after the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season in the U.S. topped expectations, offsetting concerns about Greece's financial crisis.

South Korea urged to restore trust in nuclear power

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea needs to rebuild public trust in nuclear power by boosting transparency and improving regulation, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Friday, after safety scares have closed reactors and threaten to trigger blackouts over winter.

Southeast Asian nations plan trade bloc to rival US

PHNOM PENH: Ten Southeast Asian nations said on Tuesday that they would begin negotiating a sweeping trade pact that would include China and five of the region's other major trading partners, but not the United States.

China manufacturing picks up pace, HSBC report suggests

China's manufacturing activity expanded in November, according to a report by HSBC, the latest sign that its growth may be rebounding.

Japan exports fall for fifth consecutive month

Japan's exports have fallen for a fifth straight month after demand in China and the European Union (EU) weakened.

China to hold trade talks with Japan, South Korea

(Reuters) - China will hold ministerial talks on a free trade area (FTA) with Japan and South Korea at an East Asia Summit in Cambodia, a Chinese government spokesman said on Monday, in a step towards engagement with Japan after recent diplomatic tension.

Vietnam's 'tiger' economy losing its roar

The Ben Hai river running through this small mountain village in central Vietnam marks the 17th parallel, what was the dividing line between North and South Vietnam prior to the exit of US troops and the communist victory in 1975.

Inflation China's key long-term risk: central bank chief

BEIJING (Reuters) - Inflation is the main long-term risk for China as the economy makes a transition from a planned economy to a market-based one and deeper financial reforms are needed to complete the move, central bank governor Zhou Xiaochuan said on Saturday.

HK economy grows 1.3 in 3Q, govt trims forecast

HONG KONG (AP) — Hong Kong trimmed its growth forecast for the year on Friday as the weak global economy weighed heavily on the trade-dependent Asian financial center, mirroring a similar move by regional rival Singapore.

Japan government to downgrade economic assessment in November: sources

(Reuters) - Japan will downgrade its assessment of the economy in a monthly report due at the end of the week, government sources told Reuters on Wednesday, as the global economic slowdown pushes the country to the brink of recession.

Asia stocks fall as talks on US budget deal stall

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stocks tumbled Thursday as hopes began to fade for a quick agreement among U.S. leaders to avoid a "fiscal cliff" that could derail the world's biggest economy.

India Likely to Grow Around 6% This Fiscal Year; Local, Global Issues Drag - Prime Minister

NEW DELHI--India's economic growth is expected to slow to around 6% in the current fiscal year, dragged by domestic issues such as supply side limitations as well as the global economic slowdown, but the government is focussed on getting the country back on a growth path, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said.

China turns corner on economy as party chooses new leaders

(Reuters) - China announced on Saturday that it is effectively turning the corner on the economy and likely to meet its growth target for the year, more good news for Communist Party policy makers meeting in Beijing to anoint new leaders for the next decade.

From ‘Superpower’ to ‘Time for a Reboot’

GURGAON – To understand the pall that slowing growth and seemingly paralyzed policy making has cast over business sentiment in India look no further than a panel held at an economic conference here this week: ‘‘Rebooting India.’’

UK to end financial aid to India by 2015

The UK is to end financial aid to India by 2015, international development secretary Justine Greening has said.

China congress: Hu Jintao says reforms to deepen

China's President Hu Jintao has said the country will deepen its economic reforms and boost domestic demand to spur a new wave of growth.

Asia Markets: Higher On U.S. Election

(RTTNews.com) - The Asian stock markets are expected to open higher on Wednesday as the U.S. presidential election draws to a close, finally bringing some clarity to the future of the world's largest economy.

Asia-Europe Meeting: build growth with cooperation

VIENTIANE, Laos (AP) — Leaders from Asia and Europe called Tuesday for closer cooperation between the two continents in addressing the current global economic and financial crisis.

Indonesia Q3 growth slows as commodity exports wane

JAKARTA (Reuters) - Indonesia's economy grew 6.2 percent in the third quarter from a year earlier, in line with forecasts, as the global downturn finally began to drag on a country whose resilience has attracted a flood of foreign investment this year.

Late China Party Chief’s Son Urges Reform on Eve of Power Shift

The son of China’s late Communist Party chief Hu Yaobang called on leaders of the world’s most populous nation to pursue political and economic changes as they prepare for a once-a-decade transfer of power.

Asian Currencies Have Fourth Weekly Gain on Recovery Outlook

Asian currencies had a fourth weekly gain, led by South Korea’s won, after data suggested the worst may be over for the global economy.

Japan Stocks Rise Third Day on U.S. Jobs, Weaker Yen

Japanese stocks rose for a third day as the yen weakened and reports on U.S. employment, manufacturing and consumer confidence signaled improvement in the world’s largest economy.

China's new leaders face tough economic choices

BEIJING: China's economic model that delivered three decades of double-digit growth is running out of steam and the country's next leaders face tough choices to keep incomes rising. But they don't seem to have ambitious solutions.

Hong Kong named top financial center for second year

LONDON (Reuters) - Hong Kong was named the world's top financial center for the second year running by the World Economic Forum (WEF), thanks to the strength of its business environment, infrastructure and a favorable tax regime.

Bank of Japan Expands Asset-Purchase Program

TOKYO—The Bank of Japan took additional monetary easing action as a drop in exports and output forced it to lower its economic outlook. It also issued a joint statement with the government stressing a commitment to fight deflation.

Asia stocks mixed ahead of BOJ meeting

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets were mixed Monday, with traders widely expecting the Bank of Japan to announce new measures to help the country break out of its deflationary slump.

India risks backlash hurrying through overdue welfare reform

BEELAHERI, India (Reuters) - India is shaking up the way it gets billions of welfare dollars to the poor with a plan that could one day reshape the economy and tackle graft keeping millions in poverty, but in one small town a pilot of the new system is proving unpopular.

Hong Kong to tax overseas property buyers in bid to cool market

HONG KONG: Hong Kong is to introduce new property cooling measures, including a new 15 percent tax on overseas buyers, to curb a rise in prices to increasingly unaffordable levels, Financial secretary John Tsang said on Friday.

Make Way for Southeast Asia’s Newest Boom Economy

Pop quiz: Which country is likely to have the fastest-growing economy in Southeast Asia this year?

Hong Kong weakens local currency again

Hong Kong's central bank has intervened in financial markets again, weakening the value of its currency after it jumped in value.

China's new government to help sustain BMW growth rates

MUNICH: BMW is counting on China's new leadership to inject enough fresh stimulus into the slowing economy to sustain double-digit growth in premium car sales, its finance chief told a news agency.

Vietnam's PM apologizes for economy woes but sees progress

HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam's prime minister made a rare apology on Monday for problems gripping the economy and called for the ruling Communist Party to work with the country at large to implement reforms more quickly and ensure order in its finances.

Japanese exports to China fall amid territorial dispute

Japanese exports to China tumbled in September compared to the previous year, as a territorial dispute between the two countries weighed on the economy.

Asia stocks fall on US earnings disappointment

BANGKOK (AP) — Most Asian stock markets fell Friday following disappointing U.S. corporate earnings and uncertain progress from a European summit convened to hash out solutions to the region's debt crisis.

Japan PM Noda Seeks Stimulus Package

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda ordered his Cabinet to draft an economic stimulus package Wednesday, in a move likely to further antagonize the opposition, who see the measure as a time-buying strategy by Mr. Noda to avert an early snap election.

Asia stocks rise on US, China recovery signs

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets rose Thursday after an unexpectedly strong U.S. housing report renewed confidence in the world's biggest economy and the latest data from China suggested the worst of its slump is over.

Thailand Surprises With Rate Cut

BANGKOK—The Bank of Thailand cut its policy interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point in a surprise move Wednesday, making it the latest Asian central bank to ease policy as weakening demand from the West and China hits the region's export-oriented economies.

India Inflation at 10-Month High

NEW DELHI – Indian inflation rose to the highest level in 10 months in September, limiting the central bank's ability to cut rates to help support the slowing economy.

China inflation rate dips to 1.9% raising easing hopes

China's policymakers have been given more room to boost stimulus measures after the country's inflation rate dipped in September.

Emerging nations like China & Brazil impatient on stalled IMF reforms

TOKYO: Discontent simmered among fast-growing economies like China and Brazil which seek a bigger voice at the IMF as the last-resort lender wrapped up annual talks dominated by Europe's debt crisis.

China’s Banks Said to Resist Cutting Lending Rates

China’s biggest banks are resisting government pressure to lower borrowing costs amid an economic slowdown as they seek to maintain the profitability of their lending operations, officials at the top four lenders said.

World Bank's Indrawati urges end to China-Japan row

(Reuters) - The global stakes are too high for the territorial row between China and Japan to be allowed to escalate, World Bank Managing Director Sri Mulyani Indrawati said on Thursday, calling on their leaders to resolve the dispute.

South Korea Jobless Rate Holds Steady

GWACHEON, South Korea—South Korea's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stayed at 3.1% for a third consecutive month in September, government data showed, amid expectations the central bank will lower its policy interest rate for a second time this year.

IMF cuts Japan growth forecast

TOKYO: The International Monetary Fund on Tuesday cut its forecast for Japan's growth this year and 2013, saying a slowdown in disaster reconstruction spending will weigh on the world's third-largest economy.

World Bank cuts Asia growth outlook for this year

BEIJING (AP) — The World Bank cut its growth forecast for Asia on Monday in a new sign of the impact of weakening global demand and warned China's cooling economy faces the risk of a "more pronounced slowdown."

Analysis: China slowdown could knock tech, materials earnings

NEW YORK (Reuters) - China was the world's turbocharged engine of growth for years, and U.S. technology, energy and industrial companies fattened their profit margins even if business struggled in other areas.

China Beating U.S. In VW Luxury Vehicles Market

For Germany’s Volkwswagen Group, China has now surpassed the U.S. in sales of the auto makers luxury models.

Vietnam Downgrade Adds Momentum to Clean Up State Loans: Economy

As Vietnam wins a yearlong battle to tame inflation and stabilize its currency, the spotlight is moving to the drag on growth from undercapitalized banks that have channeled credit to the nation’s state-owned companies.

ADB Cuts Growth Forecasts in Developing Asia

The Asian Development Bank on Wednesday slashed its forecasts for growth in emerging Asia, highlighting a significant slowdown in the region's giants, China and India, and warning of the potential for sudden flows in capital out of the area.

India to announce more reforms

India's government is due to announce more reforms to boost a slowing economy, reports say.

Japan Tankan survey shows business mood worsening

Japanese businesses sentiment worsened in the three months to September, a survey has indicated, underlining the weakness in the country's economy.

Exclusive: North Korea plans agriculture reforms - source

BEIJING (Reuters) - North Korea plans to allow farmers to keep more of their produce in an attempt to boost agricultural output, a source with close ties to Pyongyang and Beijing said, in a move that could boost supplies, help cap rising food prices and ease malnutrition.

Japan Heads for GDP Contraction as South Korea Weakens: Economy

Japanese and South Korean industrial production fell more than economists estimated last month as slowdowns in China and Europe weighed on exports, building the case for more monetary easing.

South Korea Output Falls Again

GWACHEON, South Korea—South Korea's factory output fell for a third consecutive month in August as strikes in the automobile sector and two typhoons slowed business activities, paving the way for the central bank to deliver another policy rate cut.

India Said to Mull Calendar for Share Sales Starting With NTPC

India’s government is considering selling shares in state companies at regular intervals based on a public calendar, two officials with knowledge of the proposal said, as the nation steps up efforts to pare its budget deficit.

Japan’s Confidence Poised to Weaken in Warning for BOJ: Economy

Japan’s biggest manufacturers probably grew more pessimistic this quarter as China’s slowdown and Europe’s crisis sapped exports, putting pressure on the central bank to add to this month’s surprise monetary stimulus.

China's economy, inflation trend stable - central bank

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's central bank said on Tuesday that it will "fine tune" policy to cushion the economy against global risks while closely watching the possible impact from recent policy loosening in the United States and Europe.

India: S&P cuts growth forecast, despite Singh's new reforms

S&P cut its growth forecast to 5.5% from 6.5% for the financial year ending in March, despite PM's moves to loosen rules on foreign investment.

Asia Stocks Halt Two-Week Gain as Slowdown Overshadows Stimulus

Asian stocks halted a two-week advance as an escalating territorial dispute between the region’s two biggest economies and signs of a deeper economic slump overshadowed unexpected stimulus from the Bank of Japan.

China Investment Seen Failing to Secure Growth Rebound This Year

China’s economic slowdown may persist into next year amid a lack of funding for approved infrastructure projects, according to an academic adviser to the nation’s central bank.

India PM defends reforms as key ally quits government

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - Prime Minister Manmohan Singh launched a spirited defense of measures meant to breathe life into India's stuttering economy after his biggest coalition ally quit in protest on Friday, reducing his government to a minority.

China and Japan Must Resist Nationalism Over Islands

History has often been a cruel mistress to the global economy. With this anecdote in mind then, how have we returned to intense nationalist sparring in Asia after all of the lessons learned from the wars of the past century and beyond?

Obama hits China with trade complaint

HONG KONG (CNNMoney) -- The Obama administration will file a complaint Monday with the World Trade Organization, alleging that China has illegally subsidized automotive exports and undercut American suppliers.

Asia must fight complacency to keep driving global growth: Experts

TIANJIN, CHINA: Asia must fight complacency and transform its economic and social models if it is to keep driving global growth in years to come as Europe and the United States slow, experts say.

India Opens Aviation Industry to Overseas Investors

India threw open its retail and aviation industries to foreign investment as a newly assertive government bids to shake off a sense of crisis over the slowing economy and a stalled agenda, risking a political backlash.

China GDP growth seen 7.7-7.8 pc in 2012: Government researcher

BEIJING: China's annual economic growth will reach between 7.7 per cent and 7.8 per cent this year and begin to stabilise in the second half as pro-growth policies gain traction, a government researcher said in remarks published on Saturday.

Japan Warns on Strong Yen as Growth Outlook Downgraded: Economy

Japan lowered the assessment for its economy, the first consecutive downgrade since the waning of the global credit crunch in 2009, fueling concern the world’s third-largest economy will contract this quarter.

India Car Sales Down 19%

The weakening auto market comes as India's once-booming economy grew by just 5.5%t between April to June -- its slowest expansion in three years.

World Economic Forum: China growth on track, says Wen Jiabao

China's Premier, Wen Jiabao, has told the World Economic Forum in Tianjin that his country is on track to hit growth targets for this year.

South Korea Boosts Stimulus by $5 Billion

GWACHEON, South Korea—South Korea announced a $5.23 billion stimulus package, the latest round of state support for Asia's fourth-largest economy, as it struggles with the global economic downturn.

Asia-Pacific Leaders Focus on Trans-Atlantic Danger to Recovery

The annual meeting of 21 leaders in the Asia-Pacific region spent much of the two-day event in Russia’s Far East focused on the other side of the planet, discussing threats to the world economy posed by the European debt crisis and a looming U.S. budget showdown.

China vows better environment for foreign investment

XIAMEN: China will work to provide a better policy environment to attract foreign investment, a senior government official said on Saturday, underlining efforts to turn around a slower investment inflow during a global economic downturn.

China, Russia pledge support for Asia growth

VLADIVOSTOK, Russia (AP) — China will ensure steady and robust growth by boosting domestic demand and rebalancing its economy to help counter the obstacles hindering a global recovery, President Hu Jintao pledged Saturday to Asia-Pacific leaders gathered for a regional summit.

North Korea May Take Action to Jolt Economy, Analysts Say

SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea said Wednesday that it would convene its Parliament this month, an unusual session that South Korean analysts said might officially introduce a program by the country’s leader, Kim Jong-un, to revitalize the nation’s moribund economy.

Japan stresses cost of ending nuclear power as decision looms

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's government, buffeted by conflicting pressure from anti-nuclear voters and pro-nuclear business interests, is stressing the negative impact of a speedy exit from atomic energy as it nears a decision on a new energy mix.

Singapore PMI contracts for second month in August on lower orders

SINGAPORE: Manufacturing activity in Singapore contracted for a second consecutive month in August as new orders declined further, in line with slowing output across Asia as demand weakens in Europe, United States and China.

China Focus Comes at a Cost for Germany

ERLIN — Berndes has been making saucepans since 1921. It is one of the largest manufacturers of such products in Germany and is a world market leader in nonstick pots and pans.

India disappoints with 5.5 percent growth

NEW DELHI (AP) — India's economy grew a disappointing 5.5 percent in the last quarter ending June, marking a sharp slowdown from the 8 percent growth in the same period a year ago.

China Manufacturing Unexpectedly Contracts as Orders Drop

China’s manufacturing unexpectedly shrank for the first time in nine months as new orders contracted and output rose at a slower pace, signaling the slowdown in the world’s second-biggest economy is deepening.

Asian markets fall, Tokyo hit by weak data

Asian markets fell on Friday as a weak set of Japanese economic figures sent Tokyo diving, while dealers looked ahead to a speech by Federal Reserve chief Ben Bernanke later in the day.

Weak Industrial Output Bodes Ill for Japan

TOKYO—Painting a dismal picture of the outlook for the world's third-largest economy, weak industrial production figures release by Japan suggest an overseas slowdown may be choking the nation's exports.

China's official PMI seen hitting 9-month low in August

BEIJING: China's official manufacturing managers' index (PMI) may have eased to a 9-month low of 50 in August, supporting the case for fresh easing measures by the central bank as the world's second-largest economy struggles against stiff global headwinds.

A Youthful Populace Helps Make the Philippines an Economic Bright Spot in Asia

MANILA — In the upscale business district of Manila, a midweek crowd spills out into the street.The New York-themed Borough restaurant is pulsating to the beat of a Bon Jovi song, while young, hip Filipinos take shots of tequila from a passing tray and sing in unison.

Moody's Gives South Korea a Vote of Confidence

BEIJING — South Korea’s sovereign debt rating was raised by Moody’s Investors Service on Monday to a level on par with Japan’s in recognition of a strengthened resilience to crises.

India sets up investment panel as FDI slumps 78% in June

India's government on Friday set up a panel to suggest ways to improve the climate for doing business in the country as figures showed foreign direct investment in India slid by 78 percent in June.

Japan hints at South Korean bond buying freeze

Japan hinted Friday it could freeze its plan to buy South Korean government bonds as a deepening diplomatic rift over disputed islands threatened to spill over into economic ties.

Vietnam markets lose $4 bn after bankers' arrests

Vietnam's stock markets have lost nearly $4.0 billion in value after two top bankers were arrested this week in a widening police probe into the banking sector, state media said Friday.

World Stocks Rise on Hopes of US, China Stimulus

Stock markets rose Thursday on hopes that more help for the global economy is on the way, after minutes from the U.S. Federal Reserve showed policy makers favor further stimulus and poor manufacturing data out of China fueled speculation that Beijing will take more action to boost its economy.

China cut red tape to quicken investment

BEIJING: China has cleaned up red tape to quicken investment in the real economy by small firms and the private sector, and allowed the southern province of Guangdong to go ahead with a pilot scheme to further reduce government interference in the economy, the State Council said on Wednesday.

Indian economy to grow 6.7%: govt panel

India's economy will grow 6.7 percent in the current fiscal year, an advisory panel to the prime minister forecast on Friday, saying that an ongoing slowdown was of "great concern".

Singapore exports rise in July amid boost from Asia

Sinagpore's non-oil exports jumped in July as robust demand from Asia helped offset a decline in shipments to Western economies.

Indonesia aims to tighten deficit in 2013 budget

Indonesia's president vowed Thursday to slash the nation's budget deficit to 1.6 percent in 2013, unveiling a draft spending plan to maintain the economy's resilience to uncertain global conditions.

South Korea jails Hanwha head Kim Seung-youn

A South Korean court has sentenced Kim Seung-youn, chairman of the Hanwha group, to four years in prison for embezzlement.

China's Wen says economy still under pressure

(Reuters) - China's economy faces big headwinds though cooling inflation is giving the government more leeway to maneuver monetary policy, Premier Wen Jiabao was quoted by state media as saying on Wednesday.

China signals strong support for decaying North Korea economy

BEIJING (Reuters) - China on Tuesday promised to help major firms invest in impoverished neighbor North Korea, signaling strong support for the North's untried young leader just as he is believed to be planning reforms to his country's broken economy.

Japan Growth May Slow to Half Previous Pace as Exports Wane

Japan’s economy probably grew last quarter at half the pace of the previous three months, a slowdown analysts predict is deepening as Europe’s debt crisis and the yen’s gains erode exports.

India PM sees better GDP growth amid rising downgrades

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expects a better performance from the economy this fiscal year even as private economists cut growth forecasts for Asia's third largest economy, citing a drought and policy gridlock.

Hong Kong's economy shrinks in 2nd quarter: official

Hong Kong's economy shrank 0.1 percent in the second quarter due to weak exports amid slowing growth in the global economy, the government said Friday.

Chinese inflation hits fresh 2-1/2 year low

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- Prices continued to decline in China last month, clearing the way for the country to ramp up its stimulus efforts.

Markets ease ahead of Chinese data

LONDON (AP) — Markets gave up some recent gains Wednesday after more downbeat European economic news and ahead of a raft of Chinese data that will shed light on the state of the world's second-largest economy.

Vietnam to Ease Rules to Lure Stock Investors: Southeast Asia

Vietnam (VNINDEX) plans to ease rules on equity trading and accelerate initial public offerings of state-owned companies this year to attract investors to a market that’s valued about 15 times less than Singapore’s.

Indonesia Surprises With Surge in Economy

JAKARTA — Indonesia’s economic growth surprisingly picked up in the second quarter of this year, fueled by easy credit and strong domestic demand, a sign that Southeast Asia remained resilient amid the global slowdown.

China to speed-up fine tuning of monetary policy

China's central bank has pledged to intensify its monetary policy fine-tuning in the second half of this year and improve credit policy to bolster the real economy.

Drought delivers fresh blow to reeling Indian economy

MUMBAI (Reuters) - A summer drought makes a bad situation worse for an Indian economy already crippled by a sharp slowdown in growth, persistent inflation and a politically hamstrung government.

Japan Widens Inquiry Into Insider Trading

TOKYO — A government investigation into insider trading in Japan has extended onto the trading floors of some of the largest Wall Street companies, including Goldman Sachs, UBS and Deutsche Bank.

China central bank vows to ensure steady credit growth

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's central bank on Thursday pledged to guarantee steady expansion in money supply and credit to cushion the world's second-largest economy against stiff global headwinds.

South Korea inflation at 1.5% moderating to 12-year low

Inflation in South Korea has moderated to a 12-year low, paving the pay for authorities to boost growth as exports and manufacturing data disappoints.

Taiwan's growth is downgraded as its economy contracts

Taiwan's economy contracted in the three months to the end of June, as the global slowdown weighed on export-dependent countries.

Japan Says Economy Headed For Gradual Recovery

TOKYO--The Japanese government said in its annual economic report released Friday that the nation's economy is headed for a gradual recovery mainly due to reconstruction demand following last year's earthquake and tsunami that devastated northeastern Japan.

India GDP Growth At Stall Speed...Til 2015

India’s total GDP in dollar terms isn’t seen expanding by much over the next 8 years. According to a report by Dun & Bradstreet, India’s GDP will top $5 trillion by 2020. But that’s the same forecast they gave in their India 2020 report last August.

Chinese industrial firms see profits dip as economy slows

Profits at China's industrial companies have dropped for the third successive month, as the slowdown in its economy hurt demand.

South Korea economic growth slows as exports weaken

South Korea's economic growth slowed in the second quarter, as investment dipped and its exports sector was hurt by the eurozone debt crisis.

Asia stocks ebb as Europe crisis clouds outlook

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets continued to ebb Wednesday amid fears Europe's debt crisis is about to get much worse and deal a new blow to the global economy.

China manufacturing 'picking up', HSBC survey indicates

China's manufacturing activity slowed less quickly in July, than in the previous month, a preliminary survey by HSBC has showed. The HSBC Purchasing Manager's Index (PMI) rose to 49.5 in July, a five-month high and up from 48.2 in June.

Monsoon in India Set for Worst in Three Years Hurting Crops

India’s monsoon, which brings more than 70 percent of its rain, is set to be less than normal in the whole season for the first time in three years, hurting crops and boosting food costs in Asia’s third-biggest economy.

Japan Fukushima probe urges new disaster prevention steps, mindset

TOKYO (Reuters) - A government-appointed inquiry into Japan's Fukushima nuclear crisis raised doubts on Monday about whether other atomic plants were prepared for massive disasters, and delivered a damning assessment of regulators and the station's operator.

South Korea to Ease Mortgage Lending Rule to Spur Consumption

South Korea will ease a rule on mortgage lending to stimulate the real-estate market and boost consumption as faltering global demand hurts the export-reliant economy, an adviser to President Lee Myung Bak said.

Oil price climbs above $90 on stronger US demand

NEW YORK (AP) — The price of oil climbed above $90 per barrel for the first time since May after the government said U.S. oil demand is on the rise.

Southeast Asia Shares Best With Top Risk-Adjusted Returns

Southeast Asia (MXSO), the heart of the 1997 currency crisis, produced the best risk-adjusted returns for Asian stocks since global markets started to rebound three years ago, as investors sought a haven from Europe’s debt turmoil.

Foreign investment in China slips 6.9% as economy slows

Foreign direct investment into China fell in June as an economic slowdown dampened companies' appetite for expansion.

Indian inflation slows in June

India's wholesale prices rose by a slower-than-expected 7.25% in June, according to official government data.

With slower growth, China can't play economic hero

BEIJING (AP) — China's economic growth fell to a three-year low, and a potential recovery later this year will probably be too weak to pull the world out of its slump.

India industrial output rises by 2.4% in May

India's industrial output grew by a faster-than-expected 2.4 percent in May, data showed Thursday, but the still sluggish expansion underscored the weakness of Asia's third-largest economy.

Asian share markets fall after central bank actions

Asian shares have fallen after South Korea unexpectedly cut interest rates while the Bank of Japan made only minor changes to its stimulus programme.

Singapore PM urges India to push reforms

Singapore's prime minister on Wednesday urged India to press ahead with economic reforms and added that foreign investors need a "predictable" environment in which to invest their money.

China's inflation rate slows sharply as demand slides

China’s annual inflation rate slowed to the lowest level in more than two years in June, signalling falling demand for goods and raising the likelihood of more stimulus measures in the world’s second largest economy.

Thai economy holding strong in spite of global headwinds

The Thai economy ( THD , quote ) remains in a strong position to continue outperforming this year, even as other emerging markets struggle with global macroeconomic headwinds.

Japan's government could run out of cash by October

(Reuters) - Japan's government could run out of money by the end of October, halting all state spending including salaries, pensions and unemployment benefits, because of a standoff in parliament that has blocked a bill to finance the deficit.

China's yuan experiment faces risks, legacy

BEIJING: China's plan to test yuan convertibility in a new services hub being built near Hong Kong fanned excitement Beijing may be dismantling its rigid capital controls sooner than expected.

Asia stocks fall despite global stimulus measures

SINGAPORE (AP) — Asian stocks were lower Friday as investors brushed off monetary stimulus measures by China, Europe and Britain as insufficient to reverse a global economic slowdown.

US in China car import tariff row

The United States has complained to the World Trade Organization about the level of China's import duties on large-engined US-made cars.

Exclusive: Japan to import no Iranian oil in July: sources

(Reuters) - Japan will not import any Iranian crude in July as buyers held back to avoid any risk of running foul of EU sanctions targeting insurance, which have severely disrupted the OPEC member's supplies, industry and government sources said on Wednesday.

China vows to contain financial risks amid reforms

(Reuters) - China will step up efforts to curb financial risks as it continues with reforms to make country's interest rates and currency regime more market-driven, the central bank said on Monday.

Vietnam cuts key interest rates: central bank

Vietnam's central bank said it will trim key interest rates from Sunday, its fifth cut so far this year as inflation cools amid signs of weakening economic growth.

India to see acceleration in economic reforms over the next quarter, says Adi Godrej

LONDON: India is likely to see acceleration in economic reforms over the next quarter, and it is the right time to invest in the country as valuations have become reasonable, CII President Adi Godrej has said.

Asia Stocks Jump Most Since January as Progress Seen in Europe

Asian stocks capped the biggest weekly gain since January as euro-zone leaders agreed to relax conditions for recapitalizing lenders and amid speculation China will do more to shore up growth.

Noda's tax success may fail to end Japan deadlock

(Reuters) - After years of policy paralysis in Japan, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has pushed a much-needed but unpopular sales tax hike through the lower house of parliament, but the chances of further reform in the world's third-largest economy seem unlikely.

China's 2012 growth target at risk, property curbs hurt

(Reuters) - China's annual growth target for 2012 looks increasingly in jeopardy as demand at home falters and Europe's debt crisis worsens, complicating matters for Beijing as the country heads into a once-in-a-decade leadership transition.

Indian rupee gains on hopes of government intervention

The Indian rupee has gained ahead of an announcement in which the government is expected to unveil measures to stop it falling against the US dollar.

Vietnamese economy: undertaking necessary reforms

In the face of slowing global growth, the Vietnamese economy remains well positioned to continue to grow this year , even as other export-dependent economies around the world struggle.

Govt to announce steps on Monday to improve economy

Expressing concern over signs of weakness in the Indian economy, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said the government is set to announce certain measures on Monday to improve market conditions in consultations with the Reserve Bank.

China Iran oil imports rise as payment dispute resolved

China's imports of crude oil from Iran rebounded in May after the two countries resolved a payment dispute. Beijing imported almost 524,000 barrels per day, a 35% jump from the previous month.

China Housing Prices Decline at Gentler Pace

SHANGHAI—Average housing prices in China fell in May at a gentler pace for a second consecutive month, signaling that the decline in property prices is stabilizing in response to government measures.

Reserve Bank of India leaves interest rates unchanged

India's central bank, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), has left its key interest rate unchanged at 8% in a surprise move.

Chinese economy to maintain steady, robust growth: Hu Jintao

BEIJING: Allaying concerns over slowing down of Chinese economy due to a decline in exports, President Hu Jintao has expressed confidence that the world's second largest economy will maintain steady and robust growth to make contribution to global economic progress.

Asia to spearhead next wave of African investment

ABIDJAN (Reuters) - The next wave of private investment in Africa is likely to come from Asian funds, lured by sustained high growth rates and increasing economic and political stability, according to the co-head of one of the continent's top private equity groups.

China government adviser predicts second-quarter growth below 7 percent

(Reuters) - China's annual economic growth could drop below 7 percent in the second quarter, an influential government adviser said in published remarks on Wednesday, the most pessimistic forecast of any government or private-sector economist.

Japan's rising machinery orders boost the economy

Japan's core machinery orders, a key indicator of capital expenditure, rose more than forecast in April in a positive sign for the economy.

IMF warns of slower growth for S. Korea

SEOUL: The International Monetary Fund warned Tuesday of likely slower growth for South Korea this year due to the faltering global economy, joining a series of think-tanks which have slashed their predictions.

India output growth flat, adds to BRIC straggler's gloom

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's industrial output growth flatlined in April, piling pressure on policymakers to cut rates and revive the economic fortunes of the BRIC nation that Standard & Poor's warned could be downgraded to junk status because of political inaction.

OECD indicator sees weakness spreading to Asia

(Reuters) - There are signs that the economies of two of the world's leading emerging powerhouses, India and China, are starting to falter, while Europe continues to be handicapped by its debt woes, the latest report from the OECD showed on Monday.

China's Inflation Slowed in May

BEIJING—Inflation in China slowed significantly in May, giving Beijing additional room to loosen policy and stimulate growth.

Japan PM urged to be cautious about nuclear restarts

(Reuters) - Nearly a third of Japan's ruling party lawmakers are petitioning Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda to be cautious about restarting nuclear reactors given safety concerns after last year's earthquake and tsunami, an organizer said on Tuesday.

Turkish economy may navigate soft landing

In an interview with CNBC this week, Finance Minister Mehmet Sinsek indicated the Turkish economy would be able to navigate current economic difficulties with a so-called 'soft-landing.'

7-point strategy to boost export; Govt said

Amid global economic problems, the government on Tuesday unveiled 7-point strategy to boost exports which include extension of interest subsidy scheme by one year till March 31, 2013.

Japan PM reshuffles Cabinet over tax bill

TOKYO - Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda reshuffled his Cabinet Monday, replacing five ministers in an attempt to gain opposition support for his plan to double the sales tax.

South Korean economy may be slowing, but it’s not all bad news

The South Korean economy's ( EWY , quote ) industrial output growth slowed to 0.5% for the month of April, according to data released this week.

China's manufacturing slows to a crawl

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- China's closely watched manufacturing sector took a hit in May, as two reports issued Friday indicated the country's factories continue to struggle amid global economic woes.

India's Economy Grows at Slowest Pace in a Decade

NEW DELHI—India's gross domestic product grew at its slowest pace in almost a decade in the January-March period, adding weight to growing evidence the nation's economy is heading into troubled waters.

Philippine economy GDP growth at 2 year high; state spending surges

MANILA: The Philippine economy grew at its strongest quarterly pace in two years in January-March, powered by government spending, domestic demand and an export rebound, though analysts cautioned it may lose momentum quickly given headwinds from Europe.

S Korea current account surplus almost halves in April

South Korea's current account surplus has almost halved in April after exports of computer and phone chips and oil products slowed.

China and Japan to start direct yen-yuan trade in June

China will allow direct trading of the yuan and the Japanese yen, in a move aimed at promoting trade between Asia's two biggest economies.

India Inc exposed by unhedged dollar debt

SINGAPORE: As the rupee hits record lows against the US dollar, Indian companies, holding nearly US$100 billion in foreign-currency debt, are finding themselves dangerously exposed, and unhedged dollar debt could spell billions in losses for local borrowers.

Thailand exports fall in April as global demand slows

Thailand has reported a surprise fall in its exports for April because of falling demand from key markets such as Europe and the US. Shipments fell 3.7% from a year earlier.

Chinese manufacturing activity 'contracts in May'

China's manufacturing activity contracted in May, a survey has shown, indicating that the rate of growth in the economy is continuing to slow.

Japan exports rise less-than-forecast in April

Japan's exports rose less-than-forecast in April hurt by a drop in shipments to China and Western Europe. Exports rose by 7.9% from a year earlier.

Asia Currencies to Extend Slide on Growth, Citigroup Says

Asian currencies are poised to keep falling after the biggest decline in eight months as the region’s economy slumps more than investors expect, spurring more interest-rate cuts, according to Citigroup Inc.

China to become biggest IT consumer in Asia-Pacific

BEIJING: China will soon surpass Japan to become the biggest consumer of IT products and services in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC).

US relaxes some Burma sanctions, appoints ambassador

The United States has eased some sanctions on investment and relations with Burma in response to political reform there.

Japan's economy grows 1.0% on rebuilding spending

Japan's economy grew 1.0% between January and March compared with the previous three months, as government spending helped fuel a gradual recovery from last year's earthquake and tsunami. That translates to annualised growth of 4.1%, the Cabinet Office said.

Analysis: As funds flee, India's pain is Southeast Asia's gain

HONG KONG (Reuters) - Southeast Asian nations are swallowing an outflow of money from India, as foreign investors lose patience with its policy paralysis and slowing growth and aim instead for more promising emerging markets such as Indonesia.

China growth to bottom in Q2, 100 basis points RRR cuts seen: Poll

BEIJING: China is likely to cut the amount cash lenders must hold as reserves by another 100 basis points this year and lean more on fiscal policy to support the economy's growth, which is likely to bottom out in the second quarter at 7.9 per cent year on year, a poll shows.

Europe debt crisis biggest risk for Japan economy: Yoshihiko Noda

TOKYO: The European debt crisis is the biggest risk for the Japanese economy, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda said in a weekend interview with Dow Jones Newswires, citing it as a factor behind the yen's strength.

Amid Signs of Economic Weaknesses, China to Free Cash for Lending

China’s central bank announced late Saturday that it would loosen monetary policy in a clear effort to stimulate the economy after the release on Thursday and Friday of a batch of economic indicators for April that were considerably weaker than most economists had expected.

Can Singapore serve as economic model for NKorea?

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Less than two weeks after being punished with new U.N. sanctions, North Korea has sent its ceremonial head of state and two top economic officials to Singapore and Indonesia on a trip that appears aimed at drumming up outside investment.

India factory output dips 3.5% as manufacturing shrinks

India's industrial production fell unexpectedly in April, led by a drop in manufacturing, raising concerns about a slowdown in its economy.

Singapore Airlines full-year net profit down 69%

Singapore Airlines' full-year profit slumped 69 percent year-on-year after a fourth-quarter loss due to high oil prices and global economic uncertainty, the leading Asian carrier said Wednesday.

China ruling on funds sourcing a blow to foreign private equity: WSJ

(Reuters) - China's top economic-planning agency, in a setback for foreign private equity funds, has ruled that all capital in a yuan-denominated fund must come from local Chinese investors, failing which the funds will be treated as foreign, the Wall Street Journal said.

Japan to 'monitor' Europe reaction to Hollande win

Japan said Monday it will "carefully monitor" how Europe reacts to the election in France of Socialist Francois Hollande as the continent seeks to navigate a series of debt crises.

China vows change in trade, finance at US talks

BEIJING (AP) — China agreed Friday to let foreigners own bigger stakes in its securities firms and promised to limit export subsidies after a high-level dialogue with the United States went ahead despite a standoff over a Chinese legal activist.

East Asia boosts safety net as euro zone crisis lingers

(Reuters) - China, Japan and South Korea took steps on Thursday to tie their markets closer and agreed with their smaller Asian neighbors to boost their emergency protection against financial shocks.

India, China next destination for talent from the West

DUBAI: The booming markets of India and China, where a new war for professional talent is hotting up, will see incredible opportunities for Western professionals, a noted marketing expert has said.

China data points towards economic recovery

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's official purchasing managers' index (PMI) rose to a 13-month high in April, signaling the economy has found a footing and may be recovering from a first-quarter trough, but smaller factories are still struggling.

Taiwan Sees Growth After Period of Contraction

TAIPEI—Taiwan emerged from a half-year of economic contraction in the first quarter, as expected, but an uncertain outlook for its major trading partners—China, the U.S. and Europe—and a rising local currency prompted the government to trim its export and economic growth forecasts for the year.

China to cut trade tariffs as US visit looms

China has announced plans to cut import tariffs just days before US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner arrives in Beijng for the latest round of talks between the two superpowers.

Struggling coalition leaves Indian economy in the doldrums

It didn't go unnoticed that the best news for the beleaguered Indian economy last week came not from the markets but the Gods via the weatherman.

S.Korea's economy grows at fastest pace for year

South Korea's economy grew at the fastest pace for a year on a quarterly basis in January-March thanks partly to strong industrial output, according to the central bank.

Buyers of US beef keep importing after mad cow case

(Reuters) - Major markets for U.S. beef from Canada to Japan stayed open to imports on Wednesday after the first U.S. discovery of mad cow disease in six years on assurances that rigorous surveillance had safeguarded the food system.

Exclusive: Bank of Japan likely to ease, may buy longer-dated government bonds

(Reuters) - The Bank of Japan is likely to ease monetary policy on Friday by boosting asset purchases by up to 10 trillion yen ($123 billion) and in doing so may extend the maturity of government bonds it targets to around three years, according to sources familiar with the central bank's thinking.

China manufacturing on the mend, HSBC survey shows

China's manufacturing activity slowed less quickly in April than the previous month, a preliminary HSBC survey has showed.

India's Reliance sees quarterly profits drop 21%

Reliance Industries, India's largest private company, has reported a second consecutive quarter of falling profits.

Japan trade deficit hits record high

Japan has reported its biggest fiscal year trade deficit ever, a contrast from decades of surpluses on booming exports, as the nuclear crisis brought about by the March 2011 tsunami boosted oil and gas imports.

Asia stocks rise on Japan hopes, Europe retreats

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stocks catapulted higher Wednesday amid speculation Japan might take new measures to spur its economy, but European shares scaled back a day after posting strong gains.

China increases its US debt holding for second month

China has increased its holding of US debt for the second month in a row as its foreign exchange reserves continue to rise.

India, Pakistan agree to open more trade routes

Just a day after opening a new integrated check post at the Attari border, India and Pakistan on Saturday said the countries were exploring the possibilities of opening more routes to deepen economic engagements.

China moves on currency after growing US pressure

The People’s Bank of China said that from Monday it will double the trading band, so that the yuan can fluctuate by 1pc every day from a mid-point, compared with its previous limit of 0.5pc.

India February industrial output slows to 4.1%

India said on Thursday that industrial output grew a worse-than-expected 4.1 percent year-on-year in February, as sluggish manufacturing and weakening exports drag on the economy.

Indonesia ratifies convention on migrant workers

JAKARTA: Indonesia's parliament ratified on Thursday a UN convention on the protection of migrant workers in a move that will offer greater rights to millions of Indonesians working abroad.

World Bank cuts China growth forecast to 8.2pc

The World Bank cut its forecast for growth in China this year to 8.2pc on Thursday from 8.4pc previously, reinforcing the view that the world's second largest economy is set for its slowest annual growth in a decade.

Asia's rapid growth fuelling inequality, the ADB warns

Asia's rapid economic growth may undermine stability because the gap between the rich and poor is widening, the Asia Development Bank has warned.

China still a growing country with imbalanced development: Le Yucheng

BEIJING: Playing down its growing clout in the backdrop of its rapid economic development, China today said it was unable to take on more global responsibilities and "fully play the role of a major country".

Japan sets new safety standards for nuclear plants

TOKYO: The Japanese government approved new safety guidelines for nuclear power plants on Friday in a bid to restart reactors idled after the Fukushima disaster last year.

Japan to hold talks with China on IMF contributions

(Reuters) - Japanese Finance Minister Jun Azumi said on Saturday Japan would hold high-level talks with China over contributions to the International Monetary Fund to help ease the euro zone debt crisis ahead of a G20 finance leaders' meeting in Washington.

Asia shares down as economy fears hurt global stocks

Asian shares have declined after fresh fears over the health of the US and European economies resulted in a sell-off in global markets.

Japan Survey Finds Businesses Unexpectedly Pessimistic

TOKYO — Japanese business sentiment failed to improve as expected in the first quarter and is expected to remain muted in coming months, a survey by the central bank showed Monday, suggesting that the bank will remain under pressure to deliver more stimulus.

Singapore's DBS eyes Indonesia with $7.3 bln bank purchase

Singapore's DBS Group Holdings on Monday announced plans to buy Indonesia's PT Bank Danamon for Sg$9.1 billion ($7.3 billion) to ramp up its business in Southeast Asia's biggest economy.

China says manufacturing expands

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) -- China watchers got a mixed view this weekend of the country's all-important manufacturing sector.

Japan Tankan Stagnates With Yen Seen as Threat: Economy

Sentiment among Japan’s largest manufacturers failed to improve in March as executives predicted the yen will rebound against the dollar, hurting exporters’ sales and profits.

China rejects Obama's push to punish countries importing Iranian oil, SKorea seeks agreement

BEIJING, China - China rejected President Barack Obama's decision to move forward with plans for sanctions on countries buying oil from Iran, saying Saturday that Washington had no right to unilaterally punish other nations.

Unexpected fall in Japanese industrial output

Japan's industrial output unexpectedly fell in February, due to lower overseas demand for cars and electronic goods, official figures have shown.

Trial begins for Vietnam ship scandal executives

Former top officials accused of bringing one of Vietnam's largest state-owned companies to the brink of bankruptcy have gone on trial for violating regulations.

Chinese companies asked to import more from India

NEW DELHI: Ahead of a meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese President Hu Jintao, China Wednesday allayed India's apprehensions over the widening trade deficit and stressed that Beijing is encouraging Chinese companies to import more from India.

China Official Warns Of Tough Months Ahead For Exporters

The export capital of the world is in for a long, slow slog thanks to weak trading partners in Europe and creeping protectionism in good ole free market America.

Opportunities in Asia

Charlotte Wun, chief investment officer for Asia at RBC Wealth Management in Hong Kong, gives her perspective on current market conditions and investment opportunities.

Japan posts surprise trade surplus in February

Japan posted a surprise trade surplus in February, after a record high deficit the previous month, as external demand picked up.

Investors eye China services as the next big thing

HONG KONG: As Chinese leaders encourage the country's 1.3 billion people to open their wallets to boost domestic demand, hotel chains, supermarkets and other service providers offer investors a fresh tilt at the country's growth story.

Export Orders in Asia Bode Well for Growth

HONG KONG—Early signs of a rebound in trade in Asia are brightening prospects for the region's export-dependent economies and are evidence that stronger U.S. demand is filtering through to help global growth.

China raises fuel prices for second time in a month

China has raised the price of petrol by about 6% and diesel about 7% for the second time in 2012, as it struggles with the rising cost of crude oil.

IMF calls on China to improve domestic consumption

The head of the International Monetary Fund has warned that the outlook for the global economy remains uncertain following meetings in China with the country's communist party leadership.

Indian keeps interest rates stable amid inflation risk

India's central bank has left interest rates unchanged, saying that inflation remains a risk despite a slowdown in the economy.

Japan Debt-Financing Concern Clouds BOJ’s Bond Buying: Economy

Some Bank of Japan board members are concerned that increased bond purchases by the central bank may be viewed as financing government deficit spending, minutes of last month’s meeting show.

Asia stocks mixed amid doubts about China growth

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets were mixed Thursday, hindered by falling commodity prices and worries about the extent of China's economic slowdown.

China's Wen Jiabao says 'reforms urgent'

China's Premier Wen Jiabao has delivered a strong warning about the ''urgent'' need for reforms, without which, he said, tragedies such as the Cultural Revolution could still happen.

EU, US, Japan launch rare earth WTO case against China

BRUSSELS/WASHINGTON: The European Union, United States and Japan formally asked the World Trade Organization on Tuesday to settle a dispute with China over Beijing's restriction on exports of raw materials, including rare earth elements critical to electronics makers.

'Made in Japan' stamp to disappear as tsunami sees industry move out

On Sunday, Japan marked the first anniversary of the disaster that decimated Japan's northeast coast, left more than 19,000 dead or missing, and sparked the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl.

India’s Central Bank Cuts Reserve Ratio as Cash Squeeze Threatens Economy

India’s central bank unexpectedly cut the amount of deposits lenders need to set aside as reserves to ease a cash squeeze in the banking system that threatens to deepen an economic slowdown.

China's inflation rate falls as food prices rises slow

China's inflation rate has fallen to a 20-month low as food price rises eased, giving policy-makers room to stimulate the economy.

Japan Looks Beyond Its Borders for Investors

AIZU-WAKAMATSU, Japan — Mayor Shohei Muroi knows it is a tough sell to get new companies to invest in this struggling industrial city just 60 miles from Japan’s most notorious nuclear plant.So in September, Mr. Muroi did the unthinkable.

Stocks, Commodities Rise Before Greek Swap

Stocks (MXWD) rose for a second day, while commodities gained and the dollar fell after Japan’s economy shrank less than initially estimated. The euro strengthened and Italian bonds advanced as Greece moved closer to completing its debt swap.

Indonesia Moves to Limit Foreign Ownership of Some Mines to Stakes of 49%

Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy, will limit foreign companies from owning more than 49 percent of some mines, potentially limiting investment in the world’s largest thermal-coal and tin exporter.

Asia Currencies Drop on Concern Global Slowdown to Hurt Regional Exports

Asian currencies weakened, led by Indonesia’s rupiah and India’s rupee, as concern the global economy is slowing dimmed the outlook for the region’s exports.

China’s February Non-Manufacturing Index Falls in Sign Economy Weakening

China’s non-manufacturing industries contracted for the first time in three months in February, adding to signs the world’s second-biggest economy is weakening.

Europe drags on global economy, few policy options

LONDON/BEIJING (Reuters) - Prospects for a strong recovery in the global economy darkened on Thursday as sputtering factory activity in Europe overshadowed more upbeat data from Asia, at a time when central banks are running out of policy options and reluctant to do more.

Japan car sales jump on subsidies for green vehicles

Japanese car sales, including those of 660cc mini vehicles, rose in February as government subsidies for energy-efficient vehicles lured buyers.

People's Bank of China may cut interest rates this year to boost growth: Report

BEIJING: China's central bank, People's Bank of China, may cut interest rates by 25 basis points each in the second and third quarter to revive the economic growth which is impacted by slowdown in eurozone and the US, a research note said here.

Asian stocks mixed ahead of US economic data

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian stock markets were mixed Monday as high oil prices dampened enthusiasm for riskier assets like stocks ahead of the release of data likely to show that the U.S. economy is improving at a slow but steady clip.

Vietnam's runaway inflation eases in February

Vietnam's inflation fell for a sixth consecutive month in February to the lowest level in almost a year, according to official figures, following government efforts to concentrate on economic stabilisation.

Yen hits seven-month low after Bank of Japan measures

The Japanese yen fell to its lowest level against the US dollar in seven months, a respite for worries over the strong yen hurting exports and the economy.

Asia CFOs Look Closer to Home for Growth

HONG KONG--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CFOs in Asia, excluding those in Japan, are positive about the regional economy but cautious on their view of the world economy.

Thailand's economy shrinks 9% after flood disruptions

Thailand's economy contracted sharply in the last three months of 2011 after some of the worst flooding on record disrupted manufacturing.

Sales tax increase approved by Japan's cabinet

The Japanese cabinet has passed a plan to double sales taxes in an attempt to control the soaring costs of public debts.

China's Xi sells U.S. trade elixir, personal chemistry

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - China's leader-in-waiting Xi Jinping on Friday swiped away fears that his country's economic growth could stumble, and turned to courting American companies, film-makers and governors hungry for a slice of that growth on the final day of his U.S. visit.

Asian shares up on recovery hopes amid positive US data

Asian markets have risen on hopes of a recovery in the US after the world's biggest economy reported better-than-expected jobs data.

Bank Of East Asia 2011 Net Up 3.2% At Record High

HONG KONG – Bank of East Asia Ltd. (0023.HK), Hong Kong's fifth-largest lender by assets, said Tuesday its 2011 net profit rose 3.2% to a record high even as non-interest income weakened.

Analysis:China offshore yuan market booms even as yuan bets fade

(Reuters) - Three years after China launched its most ambitious experiment yet to give its currency more global clout, some market watchers are writing its epitaph, saying Beijing is not loosening its grip on the yuan fast enough to attract sustained interest.

Japan's economy shrinks at 2.3 per cent pace in Q4

TOKYO: Japan's economy shrank at an annual pace of 2.3 per cent in the fourth quarter as manufacturers were battered by the strong yen, weak export demand amid the European debt crisis and flooding in Thailand.

EU leaders in China for debt crisis talks

Leaders from China and the European Union are meeting for a summit set to focus on Europe's debt crisis.

Japan’s Economy Minister Urges Greater Clarity on BOJ’s Inflation Policy

The Bank of Japan should communicate its inflation goal more clearly, Japanese Economy Minister Motohisa Furukawa said as the central bank comes under pressure to halt deflation.

China's inflation rate rises to 4.5%

China's rate of inflation unexpectedly accelerated in January for the first time since it peaked in July, as consumers raised spending around Chinese New Year.

New sanctions on Iran constrict trade flows to Asia

BEIJING (Reuters) - Trade between Asia and Iran is likely to slow as new U.S. sanctions make payments more difficult, traders said Tuesday, although the more determined can still find a route through Middle Eastern intermediaries.

Shanghai shipping slump as IMF warns China on euro slump

The shipping specialist Lloyd's List said container traffic through the Port of Shanghai - the world's largest - fell by 100,000 boxes in January from a year earlier, or 4pc. Volumes fell by over one million tonnes.

Economists rethink Asia's doom-and-gloom scenarios

HONG KONG: The glass is half full again for Asia's economies. Some economists have begun downplaying the darkest of the worst-case scenarios for Asia now that Europe appears to be muddling through its debt crisis without imploding and the United States finally shows signs of a self-sustaining recovery.

China growth could halve if Europe crisis worsens: IMF

BEIJING: China's annual economic growth could be cut nearly in half this year if Europe's debt crisis tips the world economy into a recession, putting pressure on Beijing to unveil "significant" fiscal stimulus, the International Monetary Fund said.

Indonesian Economy Grows Fastest Since 1996

Indonesia’s economy grew last year at the fastest pace since before the Asian financial crisis as rising investment and domestic spending countered a slowdown in export demand due to Europe’s debt crisis.

Top Japan bank plans for JGB sell-off, no near-term shift seen

(Reuters) - Japan's top banking group, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial (8306.T), has drawn up a contingency plan that flags 2016 as the time when the nation's current account may slide into deficit and trigger a government bond sell-off, a newspaper reported on Thursday.

China's push for rail reform could be dead in its tracks

BEIJING: When Zhang Dong sat down recently to book train tickets for his trip home for the Chinese new year, he got a taste of the frustration that has helped make China's railway ministry a focus of anger against the country's many bureaucrats.

IMF Says Asia Has Room for Stimulus

SINGAPORE—Asia so far has proved resilient to the European debt crisis and slowing global growth, and countries in the region have room to take growth-boosting steps in case of a sharp downturn, the International Monetary Fund said.

Japanese auto parts firms to pay US anti-trust fine

Japan's Yazaki Corporation and Denso Corporation have agreed to plead guilty and pay fines for fixing prices of parts supplied to US manufacturers.

Japan's retail sales in fastest rise since August 2010

Retail sales in Japan rose in December at their fastest pace in more than a year, official figures show, as consumer spending recovers after the earthquake and tsunami in March.

SKorea's economy slows amid waning overseas demand

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea's economy grew at its slowest pace in two years in the fourth quarter last year as manufacturing waned amid weak overseas demand, the country's central bank said Thursday.

New US unit to probe 'unfair trade practices' in China

US President Barack Obama has announced a new body to investigate unfair trade practices in countries such as China.

Japan posts first annual trade deficit in 30 years

Japan has announced its first annual trade deficit in more than 30 years, a setback for a country known for its exports including cars and electronics.

Japan ETFs Start Year with Rally

Japanese stocks and exchange traded funds are off to a strong start in 2012 due to improved risk sentiment and hopes the economy is in recovery mode following last year’s devastating quake and tsunami.

Viewpoint: China’s Iran dilemma

As the West increases its pressure on Iran, the latest effort being a concerted campaign to impose an oil embargo on Tehran, China finds itself in a tough dilemma.

Indonesia regains investment grade from second agency

Indonesia has won a second credit rating upgrade in as many months, as Moody's ratings agency restored its debt to investment grade.

Asian economies to slow in 2012 but avoid slump

SINGAPORE: Asia's economic growth will get worse before it gets better, with China and India seen expanding this year at their slowest pace since the tail-end of the global financial crisis in 2009, prompting central banks to remain accommodative, a Reuters poll showed on Thursday.

Newsmaker: Long trek from clerk to chairman of China's AgBank

(Reuters) - The new chief of Agricultural Bank of China (601288.SS) (1288.HK) brings no-nonsense flair and a strong track record in bank overhauls to the helm of the lumbering Chinese lender where he started out years ago as a filing clerk.

Japan steps up efforts to crack untapped Myanmar economic market

NAYPYIDAW, Japan _ Myanmar has been billed as "Asia's final frontier," and its rich resources and cheap wage levels are increasingly catching the eye of Japanese companies and the government.

China knocks US sanctions on state-run firm over Iran

SHANGHAI: China has criticised the United States for imposing sanctions on a state-run oil firm for exporting petroleum products to Iran, saying the move was "without reason".

Apple ends China iPhone store sales after scuffles

Apple has halted the sale of all iPhone models from its stores in China, after large crowds disrupted the launch of the iPhone 4S.

China's foreign currency reserves decline

China's official foreign currency reserves fell in the last three months of 2011, marking their first quarterly decline since 1998.

Japan 'very concerned' over Iran tension

Japan's foreign minister, on a Gulf tour to seek assurances over oil supplies, said Tuesday that Tokyo was "very concerned" by escalating tensions with Iran and called for a diplomatic solution.

S Korean fund gets go-ahead to trade Chinese securities

South Korea's largest pension fund, the National Pension Service (NPS), has received approval from authorities to invest in Chinese securities.

Exclusive: Olympus sues current president, ex-directors

(Reuters) - Japan's Olympus Corp has sued its current president and three ex-directors for several million dollars in compensation, sources told Reuters on Monday, as the company seeks to draw a line under one of the nation's worst accounting scandals.

China loan growth quickens

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's banks ratcheted up lending in the last month of 2011 on the back of stronger money supply, reinforcing perceptions that the central bank is gently easing policy to cushion the impact of the global economic slowdown.

Bank of China, Mizuho eye RBS bank assets: sources

(Reuters) - Bank of China (601988.SS) and Japan's Mizuho Financial 8411.T. are among the banks eyeing parts of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS.L), sources told Reuters on Friday, as the process begins to trim the investment banking arm of the government owned UK bank.

Samsung gets government approval for China chip factory

Samsung Electronics has won government approval for its plans to set up a memory-chip factory in China.

IMF to release Japan bank stress tests in summer: report

(Reuters) - The International Monetary Fund will release as early as this summer the results of health checks on Japanese banks, including their ability to withstand the European debt crisis and weak economic growth, the Nikkei business daily reported on Tuesday.

Singapore's economic growth slows as manufacturing dips

Singapore's economic growth slowed in the last quarter of 2011 as reduced demand and supply chain disruptions hurt manufacturing.

Two Koreas 'at a turning point' says South president

The Korean peninsula is at a "turning point" and there are opportunities for change, South Korean President Lee Myung-bak said in a new year speech.

China’s Export Orders Show Threat to Growth From Europe: Economy

Jan. 2 (Bloomberg) -- A Chinese manufacturing gauge rose in December, suggesting that a slowdown in the world’s second- biggest economy may be stabilizing even as Europe’s debt crisis dims the outlook for exports.