Korean weakness, CBSL rate cut, Vietnam uncertainty

 The Korean GDP data published earlier this week highlighted how unbalanced the economy has been since the pandemic. Exports have been very strong, but domestic demand has struggled.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s central bank cut interest rates again earlier this week. The CBSL’s dovish commentary after the meeting supports our view that further easing is likely later this year.

Finally, the death of Nguyen Phu Trong, who had served as general secretary of Vietnam’s ruling Communist Party since 2011, adds another layer of uncertainty to the worsening political situation in the country.