Economics
Covid-19 Could Push Half A Billion People Into Poverty
According to one estimate, 420-580 million people worldwide could be pushed into poverty, with as much as 240 million of them living in the East Asia and Pacific region.
Charity group Oxfam has warned that a recession caused by Covid-19 could push an extra half a billion people into poverty – 8 percent of the world’s population – unless urgent action is taken.
A global recession could reverse up to three decades of improvements in living standards and, according to one estimate, push 420-580 million people worldwide into poverty. The World Food Program, has warned that COVID-19 will likely double the number of people suffering from acute hunger, to 265 million.
- COVID-19 could spark a global recession, reversing up to three decades of improvements in living standards.
- According to one estimate, 420-580 million people worldwide could be pushed into poverty.
- It’s vital that governing bodies and world banks work together to support the countries than are unable to support themselves, write two former world leaders and two economists.
The most serious scenario involves a 20 percent fall in income which would result in an additional 548 million people earning less than the World Bank poverty threshold of $5.50 per day.
Poverty rate increased from 7.2 percent to 9.8 percent
Between 2015 and 2018, the poverty rate in Thailand increased from 7.2 percent to 9.8 percent, and the absolute number of people living in poverty rose from 4.85 million to over 6.7 million. The increase in poverty in 2018 was widespread – occurring in all regions and in 61 out of 77 provinces.
Although lockdowns are being eased in many places, the daily number of new COVID-19 cases worldwide recently reached its highest level yet, while the pandemic’s devastating economic toll continues to mount as new epicenters arise in the emerging and developing world.
We are at a critical moment, because the poorest countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America are facing economic and public-health emergencies that demand immediate action. A diverse group of middle-income economies need help, too. Together, these countries represent nearly 70% of the world’s population and account for approximately one-third of global GDP.
Business
US Companies Overlook China as a Viable Business Opportunity Amid Growing Challenges – Organiser
US businesses are increasingly overlooking China as a viable market due to escalating challenges, leading to a shift in focus toward alternative opportunities and partnerships.
Declining Interest in Chinese Markets
US businesses are increasingly viewing China as a less viable opportunity due to a rising number of challenges. Economic uncertainties, regulatory hurdles, and geopolitical tensions are among the key factors that have contributed to this shift in perspective. Companies that once saw China as a prime destination for investment are now reassessing their strategies and looking elsewhere.
Shift in Business Strategies
Many American firms are pivoting their focus to more stable markets. This realignment is driven by the need to reduce risk in their global supply chains and diversify their operations. As a result, countries in Southeast Asia and Latin America are becoming attractive alternatives for US businesses in search of new opportunities.
Long-Term Implications
This trend could have significant long-term implications for both economies. The diminished interest in China might alter the landscape of global trade and investment patterns. As US companies seek to mitigate risks, there could be lasting effects on China’s market growth and its role as a manufacturing hub.
Source : US businesses dismiss China as a business opportunity amid rising challenges – Organiser
Business
Tesla Sales Slow Down as China’s BYD Gains Ground
Tesla’s sales dipped 1% in 2024, marking its first decline in over a decade, while BYD surged with 1.76 million EV sales, narrowing the competition gap.
Tesla’s Sales Decline
Tesla has faced its first sales decline in over ten years, with 2024 deliveries falling to nearly 1.79 million vehicles, a 1% drop from 2023. Despite aggressive price cuts to attract buyers, the company led by Elon Musk struggled to maintain its position as the top electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer. In contrast, China’s BYD is on track to nearly close the gap, reporting 1.76 million EV sales in 2024.
BYD’s Market Surge
BYD experienced robust growth, achieving a 41% year-on-year increase in total vehicle sales, totaling over 4.2 million. Most of BYD’s sales occur in China, where the company has extended its lead over brands like Volkswagen and Toyota. The rise has been fueled by increasing demand for hybrids and favorable market conditions, including reduced prices and government incentives for EV adoption.
Industry Challenges
Tesla continues to grapple with declining sales and increased competition, particularly in China, where rivals have gained traction. The EV market is softening in regions such as the US and Europe, prompting companies like Ford and Volkswagen to adjust their sales forecasts. Additionally, geopolitical tensions have led to tariffs against Chinese imports, impacting the industry landscape.
Business
China-linked Hackers Compromised US Treasury Workstations | CNN Business
The US Treasury Department reported a major cybersecurity incident involving a Chinese state-sponsored actor accessing Treasury workstations and documents through a stolen key. Investigations are ongoing.
Major Cybersecurity Incident at the US Treasury
The US Treasury Department reported a significant cybersecurity breach involving a China state-sponsored actor infiltrating Treasury workstations. This “major incident,” as described by officials, follows the discovery that a stolen key allowed unauthorized access to unclassified documents and specific workstations.
In a letter to lawmakers, Treasury officials revealed that a third-party service provider informed them of the breach on December 8. Although the compromised service has been taken offline, there is currently no evidence suggesting continued access to Treasury systems. A classified briefing regarding the incident is scheduled for next week.
China’s Foreign Ministry denied the allegations, asserting that they oppose cyberattacks and reject groundless accusations. Meanwhile, Treasury officials are collaborating with law enforcement and cybersecurity agencies to investigate the breach’s full extent and impact.
Source : China-backed hackers breached US Treasury workstations | CNN Business
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- Tesla Sales Slow Down as China’s BYD Gains Ground
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- China-linked Hackers Compromised US Treasury Workstations | CNN Business
