Analysts debate the ability of new finance minister

Article Abstract:

Thai and international finance analysts are questioning the ability of newly appointed Thai finance secretary Thanong Bidaya in steering the country's economy towards recovery. Bidaya headed the Thai Military Bank prior to his appointment as finance secretary, and his decision to cut the bank's loan-loss provisions may have increased the bank's short-term profits by 18%. However, in the end, the bank lost profits because of its large share of nonperforming assets. Bidaya is expected to choose between two unattractive options in helping Thailand out of its economic misery: the change in the fixed exchange-rate system or the removal of the government policy of supporting failing financial institutions.

Financial Administration-Natl Govt, Thailand, Economic development, Public finance, Bidaya, Thanong

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In Japan, intervention won't solve the problems of weak domestic demand and slow money growth

Article Abstract:

The local economic problems of Japan and the repercussions of its international trade stem from a weak domestic demand and not from a weak yen. The decrease in local demand has caused a series of events, including asset deflation, weak import activity, and a worsening of its debt problems. The Bank of Japan must make reforms in its monetary policies and ease its tight management practices which have adversely affected domestic demand. A weakened yen may provide benefits in the form of cheaper goods to consumers but also make other Asian firms less competitive.

Japan, Column, Central banks, Monetary policy, Bank of Japan

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Seoul prepares debt plans ahead of trip to the U.S

Article Abstract:

South Korean policy makers are busy preparing their proposals for their upcoming meeting with foreign bankers to discuss the interest rate the country will have to pay. South Korean officials maintain that they like the proposal by some foreign bankers that a small amount of the loans be converted to government bonds with a small amount being guaranteed by the government. South Korean officials are worried about assuming all of the debt as this would unfairly increase the government's debt load.

National Government Liabilities & Debt, South Korea, Planning, Economic policy, National debt, External debts, Debt prepayment

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