Guests discuss Putin's Asia tour focusing on his North Korea/Vietnam visits, China's response to EV tariffs, and market movements. Topics include arms trade, trade conflicts in the EV sector, Chinese manufacturers global expansion, and economic indicators.
Putin's visits to North Korea and Vietnam strengthen military ties, while China and Europe engage in an EV trade war.
Chinese EV market growth prompts concerns over overcapacity and potential consolidation, urging risk mitigation strategies in investments.
Deep dives
Russia's Military Ties in Asia-Pacific
Russian President Putin's visits to North Korea and Vietnam signal strengthened military ties between Moscow and the respective countries. The mutual defense deal with North Korea escalated arms trade, possibly sending artillery shells to Russia for Ukraine's conflict. Vietnam, while cautious due to potential Western sanctions, focuses on energy cooperation with Russia amidst rising tensions in the South China Sea, seeking strategic support against China's assertiveness.
Trade Wars in Electric Vehicle Market
A trade war is emerging in the electric vehicle market, with China and Europe imposing tariffs on each other's products. Chinese carmakers seek a 25% tax on European cars, reflecting retaliatory measures. The Chinese EV market's growth surpasses the global trend, prompting companies to consider expansion. Overcapacity concerns arise, leading to potential consolidation and government intervention to sustain viability in a competitive market.
Market Outlook and Investment Strategies
Market trends highlight an AI-driven growth story and easing inflation, maintaining a positive risk sentiment. However, economic data suggests a potential slowdown in the second half of the year. Central banks are advised to adjust policies amidst weakening economic indicators. Investment managers prioritize market leaders like Nvidia but consider risk mitigation strategies, such as adding investment-grade bonds and exploring diversification strategies to safeguard returns.
Jon Herskovitz, Bloomberg East Asia Government Editor discusses Putin's North Korea/Vietnam visit
Stephen Dyer, Co-Leader of AlixPartners Greater China Business and Head of Asia Automotive Practice discusses China's response towards EV tariffs imposed on them
Philipp Bärtschi, Chief Investment Officer, Head of Investment Management, Bank J. Safra Sarasin discusses what is moving the markets