Tag: economic policy
3 articles

US Weighs Risks of Direct Investment in Strategic Sectors
The US government has made a bold move, investing $27.7 billion in 39 strategic deals since January 2025, spanning critical sectors like minerals, semiconductors, and infrastructure. This marks a significant shift in Washington's role in industry, departing from its long-standing hands-off approach to direct company ownership.

Japan's Defence Spending Falls Short Amid Fiscal Constraints
Japan's defence spending has fallen short of expectations, with a 2026 budget of 10.6 trillion yen translating to 1.5% of GDP, not 1.9% as claimed by Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. This misses the 2% target set for 2027, highlighting fiscal constraints.

Australia Must Seize Control of AI Value Chain
With AI already woven into the fabric of daily life, Australia's government must act swiftly to secure a slice of the lucrative AI value chain - or risk watching economic benefits flow overseas. The National Cabinet's upcoming AI policy meeting is a crucial chance to shape the country's future and ensure Australians reap the rewards of AI innovation.