The Today's Headlines section of Indonesia Investments is a daily updated section which contains the latest information with regard to topics that are currently causing headlines in Indonesia's media. Most of our headlines will cover political, economic and social matters. As a consequence of their recent nature, these topics may not have crystallized fully yet and can, therefore, lack a profound analysis. For publications with a more in-depth understanding of subjects, we refer you to our News, Financial or Business columns.
The property sector of Indonesia has been sluggish ever since the nation's property boom ended in late 2013. The same goes for the office space segment. Stagnant economic growth around 5 percent (y/y) since 2014 has led to limited growth of demand for office space in Indonesia. But for some this is a positive context. Coworking space - a shared working environment - is becoming increasingly popular.
Despite the "political year" several Indonesia-based securities firms expect to see big appetite from local companies to conduct an initial public offering (IPO) on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2018. In 2018, Indonesia will see a new round of regional elections (to determine local leaders) across the country. These elections are likely to trigger new political tensions, particularly as the country's legislative and presidential elections are to be held the following year.
Credit rating agency Moody's Investors Service said it could cut its rating for Indonesia if government revenue remains weak. Indonesia needs to push for structural tax reforms in order to boost tax revenue. Since 2012 Moody's has put Indonesia at Baa3 (investment grade), while in early 2017 Moody's upgraded its outlook for Indonesia from stable to positive.
Chinese car manufacturers seem not afraid to compete with their Japanese counterparts on Indonesian soil. After Wuling Motors arrived in Indonesia in mid-2017, now another Chinese car-maker, Sokonindo Automobile, has started operations in Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest car market.
