Economics
Steady, Not Strong as Southeast Asia Faces Growth Risks in 2019
- Growth to step back as inflation creeps higher, economists say
- Central bankers to squeeze in a bit more tightening next year
Photographer: Brent Lewin/Bloomberg
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Last year, economists predicted Southeast Asia would be blessed with a strong and vibrant 2018. For next year, they’re not quite so optimistic.
Moderating economic growth and higher interest rates lie ahead. The Federal Reserve is set to keep everyone on edge as it navigates an even trickier interest-rate path in 2019, while the trade war between the U.S. and China is already hurting exports in the region. The Philippines might eke out a small gain in growth in 2019, if their bets that inflation will diminish come to fruition.