Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have each announced new trade deals with the United States, signaling a significant shift in regional trade dynamics. But the agreements have also stirred concern, with several terms still vague or potentially contentious. Dr. Deborah K. Elms, Head of Trade Policy at the Hinrich Foundation, unpacks what’s really at stake.



Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam have each announced new trade deals with the United States, signaling a significant shift in regional trade dynamics. But the agreements have also stirred concern, with several terms still vague or potentially contentious. Dr. Deborah K. Elms, Head of Trade Policy at the Hinrich Foundation, unpacks what’s really at stake.Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Opinion and analysis of today’s international and local news that matter to Malaysians. Everything you need to know to start and plan your work.

Opinion and analysis of today&rsquo;s international and local news that matter to Malaysians. Everything you need to know to start and plan your work.

Morning Brief

A “Probable Nonsense Formula” At The Heart Of U.S. Tariff Strategy

Washington is wrestling with the fallout of the Iran conflict as Brent crude stays above $90 a barrel, threatening a 0.3% inflation spike for every $10 rise. We explore whether these strikes will unify or fracture the "America First" movement, how deep the divide truly runs between the MAGA elite and their voting base, and if emerging Democratic personalities can successfully tap into faith to flip conservative strongholds. Finally, as the primary season ends, will Republicans start a mass exodus from Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric to save their own midterm prospects?


Image credit: Shutterstock.

Washington is wrestling with the fallout of the Iran conflict as Brent crude stays above $90 a barrel, threatening a 0.3% inflation spike for every $10 rise. We explore whether these strikes will unify or fracture the "America First" movement, how deep the divide truly runs between the MAGA elite and their voting base, and if emerging Democratic personalities can successfully tap into faith to flip conservative strongholds. Finally, as the primary season ends, will Republicans start a mass exodus from Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric to save their own midterm prospects? Image credit: Shutterstock.

MAGA at War, Rejuvenated Dems, Life After Trump

Malaysia aims to establish AI standards within the next year as part of its broader ambition to become an AI-driven economy by 2030. Dr Jun-E Tan, Senior Research Associate at Khazanah Research Institute, shares her insights on where the challenges may lie when building a governance framework that encourages innovation while protecting society.



The First Look is brought to you by HLB Priority. We know what your real priorities are.



Image Credit: Shutterstock

Malaysia aims to establish AI standards within the next year as part of its broader ambition to become an AI-driven economy by 2030. Dr Jun-E Tan, Senior Research Associate at Khazanah Research Institute, shares her insights on where the challenges may lie when building a governance framework that encourages innovation while protecting society.The First Look is brought to you by HLB Priority. We know what your real priorities are.Image Credit: Shutterstock

AI Governance : Can Malaysia Keep Up?

Spending in China has shifted from volume to value, creating a complex landscape for global investors. We explore whether Alibaba’s massive $1.4 billion bet on AI assistants successfully move the needle on consumer conversion, how record tourism numbers mask cautious per-trip spending, and if global luxury giants like LVMH can defend their territory against "affordable premium" local champions like Anta and Xiaomi. Finally, as government subsidies for appliances fade, will gold and AI gadgets become the new primary drivers of Chinese retail growth?

Spending in China has shifted from volume to value, creating a complex landscape for global investors. We explore whether Alibaba’s massive $1.4 billion bet on AI assistants successfully move the needle on consumer conversion, how record tourism numbers mask cautious per-trip spending, and if global luxury giants like LVMH can defend their territory against "affordable premium" local champions like Anta and Xiaomi. Finally, as government subsidies for appliances fade, will gold and AI gadgets become the new primary drivers of Chinese retail growth?

A “Probable Nonsense Formula” At The Heart Of U.S. Tariff Strategy

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