All Countries and All Sectors

Indonesia’s capital markets are enjoying a bumper year as investors move in to make the most of its burgeoning economy and relatively strong outlook. Companies and the government are taking advantage of the upswing to launch initial public offerings and bond issues.

Malaysia is looking to boost investment in the manufacturing sector as it seeks to further broaden the base of its economy and entrench its position as one of the major industrial powers in the region. In line with this, however, it will first need to enhance its competitiveness to attract additional foreign capital.

Bangkok residents are in line to get a major boost to their information and communications technology services, with CAT Telecom having firmed up plans to wire the city with a fibre-optic grid that will provide high-speed internet, television and telephone access.

While the acquisition of iconic British department store Harrods in May by Qatar Holding – one of the government’s investment vehicles – made international headlines, the country’s domestic retail sector is also very much on the move. Though impressive in themselves, the spate of new developments are less likely to catch the attention of the global media than the $2.2bn Harrods deal, Qatari shoppers are set to benefit from a major increase in retail options, some of which will rival the Knightsbridge emporium for opulence and range.