Indonesia’s once-thriving e-scooter market saw its first downturn in 2025 after a few consecutive years of robust growth. Industry leaders attribute the decline to the end of a government subsidy program and lingering uncertainty over political support for electric vehicle brands.
Economists at ING see Japan’s rising wages and resilient household spending as potential triggers for a Bank of Japan interest rate hike in October. While the increase in earnings boosts optimism for inflation, political uncertainties and tariff agreements continue to complicate the outlook.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces increasing calls to resign following his ruling party’s historic loss in a weekend election. Ishiba has stated he will decide on his resignation after thoroughly reviewing a newly established tariff deal with the United States.
In the wake of a new trade deal with the United States, Japanese 10-year bond yields have surged to levels not seen since 2008, signaling a potential shift in the country’s economic trajectory. Investors are optimistic about potential rate hikes from the Bank of Japan, even as political uncertainty lingers in Tokyo.
