Developing Asia’s outlook remains solid, driven by strong domestic demand and continued recovery in exports. But risks remain, including a possible rise in protectionism that could occur depending on the outcome of the United States presidential election, worsening geopolitical tensions, a fragile PRC property market, and adverse weather conditions. Asian Development Outlook September 2024 sheds light on these.

Low business diversity can limit Pacific countries’ growth potential. Asia Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Monitor 2023 shows how promoting women entrepreneurs can be part of the solution. The webinar discussed key findings from the business survey conducted in Fiji and explored needed policy actions for gender mainstreaming in the Pacific.

Driven by strong domestic demand, growth in developing Asia is expected to remain strong despite a weaker global outlook. Inflation continues moderating in the region. But risks are rising—from a weakening property sector in the People’s Republic of China, food security challenges, and financial stability risks. Asian Development Outlook September 2023 shed light on these.

Distributed ledger technology (DLT) and blockchains could be used to better connect ASEAN+3 central banks and central securities depository systems—an approach demonstrated by Project Tridecagon. A group of experts discussed the results of this proof-of-concept project, weighing the suitability, cost-effectiveness, and security of these technologies when applied to cross-border securities transactions.