Business & Economics

IMF Targets May Be Adjusted Following Dithwa Cyclone: Central Bank Governor

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor, Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, has indicated that the targets agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) may need to be revised due to the economic impact of the recent Dithwa cyclone. Speaking on Derana TV’s 360 program on Monday evening (12), Dr. Weerasinghe said that the government and the IMF...

Trump Announces 25% Tariff on Goods from Countries Trading with Iran

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

US President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of a 25 percent tariff on goods imported from countries that maintain commercial relations with Iran, escalating Washington’s economic pressure on Tehran. According to President Trump, the new tariff will take effect immediately. The announcement was made via a post on his Truth Social account, where he...

Bank of Korea to hold rates at 2.50% on January 15, next cut delayed to 2027 – Reuters poll

Asian TribuneJanuary 13, 2026

South Korea’s central bank is expected to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.50% when it meets on January 15, as the recent weakening of the Korean won has reduced the scope for monetary easing, according to economists surveyed by Reuters. The poll indicates that expectations for the next rate cut have been pushed...

Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Foreign Reserves Rise to USD 6.82 Billion

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

Sri Lanka’s official foreign reserves have risen to USD 6.825 billion by the end of December 2025, according to the latest data released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. This marks an increase of 13.1% compared to the reserves recorded at the end of November 2025, which stood at USD 6.034 billion. The main...

Singapore Exchange Expands Into Crypto Futures for Advanced Traders

Asian TribuneJanuary 12, 2026

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) is moving deeper into the digital asset market by introducing regulated cryptocurrency futures contracts aimed at institutional and advanced market participants, financial sources say. From 24 November 2025, SGX’s derivatives arm will begin offering Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures — a type of crypto derivative that allows traders to take positions...

Business & Economics

Rising Political Uncertainty in South Asia Raises Regional Security Concerns

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Political uncertainty across South Asia is raising concerns among regional analysts, who warn that prolonged instability could undermine security cooperation and economic recovery efforts. Several countries in the region are grappling with fragile governments, contested elections, and public dissatisfaction driven by economic pressures. Experts note that domestic political volatility often spills across borders in South...

Ukraine War Continues to Reshape Global Power Alignments

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

The war in Ukraine continues to reshape global power alignments, with far-reaching implications beyond Europe. As fighting persists, countries around the world are reassessing security partnerships, defence spending and diplomatic strategies. Western nations have reinforced military support for Ukraine, while Russia has deepened ties with non-Western partners. Analysts say the conflict has accelerated a shift...

Global Oil Price Volatility Poses Fresh Risks for Emerging Economies

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Renewed volatility in global oil prices is posing fresh risks for emerging economies, many of which remain vulnerable to external shocks. Fluctuations driven by geopolitical tensions and supply concerns have raised uncertainty over inflation and fiscal planning. Energy-importing countries face rising costs that could strain foreign reserves and increase consumer prices. Central banks are monitoring...

Small and Medium Enterprises Struggle to Regain Momentum After Global Slowdown

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across many economies are struggling to regain momentum following a prolonged global slowdown. Rising borrowing costs, subdued consumer demand and supply chain disruptions have weighed heavily on smaller firms. SMEs play a critical role in employment and innovation, making their recovery essential for broader economic growth. Governments have introduced support...

Digital Payment Systems Continue to Transform Global Economies

Asian TribuneJanuary 8, 2026

Digital payment systems are continuing to transform economies worldwide, reshaping how individuals and businesses conduct transactions. Mobile wallets, online banking and contactless payments have seen rapid adoption. The shift has improved financial inclusion, particularly in developing countries where access to traditional banking is limited. Governments have welcomed the efficiency gains but remain cautious about cybersecurity...