INT
Market competition is driving ultra-fast fashion firms
In the fierce market competition between Temu and Shein, sustainable business practices are the greatest casualty
InternationalThe world economic downturn will be mild but prolonged
Core CPI is easing towards 2% official targets in major nations, but not fast enough for rate cuts to boost 2024 growth
InternationalAI tests existing regulations in major election year
Some 76 countries are holding elections this year and many are at risk of AI misuse
InternationalCocoa prices will grow fast through 2024 and 2025
The price of cocoa is at a record high due to weather disruption
InternationalForeign workers will ease Japan’s labour shortage
Despite wide anecdotal evidence of labour shortages, nominal wages have risen little and real wages have fallen
JapanChina’s ultra-low core inflation raises risks
Consumer prices fell by the most since 2009 in January but producer prices fell by less than in December
ChinaPartnerships between AI firms and militaries will grow
Militaries will increasingly seek out private artificial intelligence firms for cutting-edge technology
InternationalSupply chain pressures will be modestly higher in 2024
The Global Supply Chain Pressures Index rose slightly in January but remains in ‘normal’ territory
International
