Monetary Policies Diverge in Southeast Asian Economies

The video discusses the challenges faced by central banks, particularly in the Philippines, due to rising inflation and external pressures like a strong U.S. dollar and high oil prices. It highlights the different approaches taken by Southeast Asian countries, with the Philippines and Indonesia opting for interest rate hikes, while Thailand and Malaysia remain more cautious. The discussion emphasizes the varied economic conditions and responses across the region.

What factors are contributing to the pressure on the Philippine central bank to consider further interest rate hikes?

• A weaker U.S. dollar and lower oil prices

• A decrease in oil prices

• A stronger U.S. dollar and higher oil prices

• A stable U.S. dollar and oil prices

Which Southeast Asian country, alongside the Philippines, is currently on a path of increasing interest rates?

• Malaysia

• Thailand

• Indonesia

• Vietnam

What is the primary reason for Indonesia's interest rate hikes?

• To increase exports

• To decrease unemployment

• To strengthen the rupiah

• To control inflation

How are Thailand and Malaysia currently approaching their monetary policy in response to inflation?

• They are aggressively hiking rates

• They are implementing quantitative easing

• They are cutting interest rates

• They are maintaining a patient stance

What change in policy are Thai officials considering for the year?

• Delaying rate hikes until 2020

• Implementing rate cuts

• Maintaining current rates

• Tightening monetary policy