Big Take Asia

Weilun Soon, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in shipbuilding, shares insights on South Korea's bustling shipyards, particularly Hanwha Ocean. He discusses a pivotal $150 billion trade deal aimed at boosting U.S. shipbuilding dreams. The conversation dives into the strategic importance of strengthening U.S.-South Korea maritime ties to counteract China's growing dominance. Soon also explores the competitive dynamics of global shipbuilding, highlighting the historical rise and fall of major powers and the future implications of this partnership.

In a compelling conversation, Mishal Husain speaks with Weijian Shan, a Chinese economist and co-founder of a major private equity firm in Asia. Weijian shares his remarkable journey from the Gobi Desert during the Cultural Revolution to Wall Street. He reflects on the implications of Hong Kong’s National Security law, the impact of President Trump’s trade war on China, and the importance of education versus the struggles his childhood friends continue to face. His insights offer a unique perspective on resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.

Timothy McLaughlin, a journalist based in Singapore, dives into the complexities of Myanmar's rare-earth supply chain. He discusses how the Kachin Independence Organization has gained control of many mines, reshaping political dynamics in the region. The podcast highlights the geopolitical ramifications of this shift, particularly for China and global supply chains. McLaughlin also explores the environmental impacts of mining and the broader tensions between the U.S. and China regarding these crucial resources.

Joe Deaux, Bloomberg's economic statecraft reporter, sheds light on the surprising agreement allowing Nvidia and AMD to sell some AI chips to China. He discusses the intricate deal that requires companies to pay 15% of their revenue to the U.S. government, highlighting the blend of national security concerns and business interests. Deaux explains how this move reflects Trump's unique approach to trade, balancing competitiveness with geopolitical tensions in the semiconductor sector. Tune in to discover the implications for U.S.-China relations and the tech industry.

Dave Sebastian, who covers Asia's equity capital markets for Bloomberg from Hong Kong, discusses the resurgence of Hong Kong's IPO market after years of stagnation. He highlights that Chinese companies are increasingly turning to Hong Kong, raising nearly $17 billion this year. The revival is influenced by supportive government policies and investor confidence. Sebastian also delves into the geopolitical challenges impacting investment and the contrasting regulatory environments between Hong Kong and mainland China, underscoring the implications for global markets.

Sudhi Ranjan Sen, a Bloomberg reporter based in New Delhi, dives into India's complex relationship with Russian oil amid rising U.S. pressures. He discusses the historical ties drawing India and Russia together since the Cold War era. The conversation highlights the economic and geopolitical challenges Prime Minister Modi faces as he balances India's oil dependence with international relations, notably with the U.S. The implications of U.S. tariffs and the risk of alienating key allies are key themes in this insightful discussion.

In a fascinating discussion, Dan Murtaugh, a Bloomberg Energy reporter based in Beijing, dives into China's ambitious $167 billion hydropower dam project in Tibet. He highlights the massive scale and potential of this engineering marvel, but also raises red flags about environmental risks and geopolitical tensions with neighboring countries like India. Murtaugh shares insights into how this project aims to rejuvenate China's economy post-COVID while sparking a heated debate on water resources and ecological impact.

Alan Crawford, a Senior Editor at Bloomberg based in Berlin, shares insights on the shifting dynamics between the EU and China. He discusses the high-level summit in Beijing and its potential to reshape diplomatic relations. Crawford explains how Trump's tariffs are prompting Europe to reassess its economic strategies and navigate the complexities of cooperation amidst human rights concerns. He highlights a cautious rebound in Chinese investments, particularly in electric vehicles, showcasing the evolving balance of trade and tension in the relationship.

Katherine Doherty, a finance reporter for Bloomberg, dives into the world of Jane Street, one of Wall Street’s most secretive and profitable firms. She discusses the firm’s innovative trading strategies and how recent allegations of market manipulation from Indian regulators have shaken the finance community. The conversation highlights the unique technological edge Jane Street possesses and examines what the increased scrutiny could mean for the future of high-frequency trading and regulatory practices globally.

In this discussion, Patpicha Tanakasempipat, Bloomberg's Thailand Correspondent, unpacks the seismic political crisis in Thailand triggered by a leaked phone call between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia’s Hun Sen. She explores the nationwide protests that erupted following her suspension and the implications for the dominant Shinawatra clan. The conversation delves into the enduring complexities of Thai politics, the struggle for genuine democratic reform, and how this turmoil is impacting the nation's economy and regional relations.