The Today's Headlines section of Indonesia Investments is a regularly updated section which contains the latest information with regard to topics that are currently causing headlines in Indonesia's media. Most of our headlines 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.
While initial public offerings (IPOs) have rebounded in Indonesia this year, the total value of these IPOs is small. This shows that companies are still cautious amid uncertain domestic and global conditions and therefore sell a limited amount of shares at a competitive price.
For long-term investors in the stock market it is worthwhile to take a look at those listed companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange that consistently pay a dividend to common shareholders. Recently, the Astra Group, one of Indonesia's largest diversified conglomerates announced its 2017 interim dividend payout. Several other blue chip stocks are reportedly also close to announcing dividend payouts.
Based on information from Bloomberg, Indonesia is now the most attractive country in Asia in terms of returns on US dollar-denominated corporate bonds as an improving domestic economy - and especially an upturn in the country's coal sector - is driving gains in Indonesia's US dollar-denominated corporate bonds.
Good news for supporters of renewable energy. The Sarulla geothermal power plant, located in Tapanuli (North Sumatra), now has two units in the commercial operation stage, hence the power plant's total capacity has increased to 220 Megawatt (MW). The second unit of the plant commenced commercial production earlier this week.
