UK's Chancellor plans a £10bn tax cut, China targets 5% growth, Argentina's president discusses economy. China's premier sets ambitious growth target and fiscal policies, while Argentina implements controversial austerity measures. Challenges in political support and economic stability amid international controversies.
UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is introducing a £10bn personal tax cut in the budget, aiming to stimulate the economy and gain voter support.
China aims for a 5% economic growth target amidst challenges like a property sector slowdown and plans to increase defense spending by 7.2%.
Deep dives
UK Budget Focuses on Personal Tax Cuts
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt unveils the UK's budget with a significant emphasis on 10 billion pounds worth of personal tax cuts. While this move aims to bolster the economy and reassure voters amid a recession, some conservative MPs argue that the cuts may not go far enough. The polls indicate a substantial lead for Labor over the Tories in the upcoming election, adding political weight to the budget decisions and their perceived impact on the public.
China's Economic Targets and Military Spending
China's National People's Congress outlines ambitious economic targets with a focus on achieving 5% growth this year, despite facing challenges like a property sector slowdown and low consumer confidence. The fiscal deficit target remains steady at 3%, disappointing investors looking for increased government spending. Additionally, China plans to expand defense spending by 7.2%, signaling a continued priority on military investments and reaffirming reunification intentions, particularly concerning Taiwan.
Chancellor Jeremy Hunt will on Wednesday put a £10bn personal tax cut at the heart of his Budget, and China is setting a 5 per cent growth target for this year. Plus, the FT’s Michael Stott sat down with Argentina’s president Javier Milei to talk about the country’s economy. Credit: AP
The FT News Briefing is produced by Fiona Symon, Sonja Hutson, Kasia Broussalian and Marc Filippino. Additional help by Sam Giovinco, Peter Barber, Michael Lello, David da Silva and Gavin Kallmann. Our engineer is Monica Lopez. Topher Forhecz is the FT’s executive producer. The FT’s global head of audio is Cheryl Brumley. The show’s theme song is by Metaphor Music.