Japan Business Sentiment Hits Four-Year High, Boosting Expectations of BOJ Rate Hike 
Indonesia–U.S. Tariff Talks Near Completion as Both Sides Push for Year-End Deal 
S&P 500 Slides as AI Chip Stocks Tumble, Cooling Tech Rally 
U.S. Dollar Slides for Third Straight Week as Rate Cut Expectations Boost Euro and Pound 
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Oil Prices Rebound as U.S.-Venezuela Tensions Offset Oversupply Concerns 
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BOJ Expected to Deliver December Rate Hike as Economists See Borrowing Costs Rising Through 2025 
U.S. Stock Futures Mixed as Tech and AI Stocks Face Pressure Ahead of CPI Data 
Asian Currencies Hold Steady as Indian Rupee Slides to Record Low on Fed Outlook 
South Korea Extends Bond Market Stabilization Measures Amid Rising Financial Risks 
Gold Prices Slip Slightly in Asia as Silver Nears Record Highs on Dovish Fed Outlook 
Zeekr’s Australian Market Entry
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Zeekr has officially commenced sales of its first model in Australia, aiming to expand its footprint in the Oceania market. This launch marks the beginning of its ambitious plans for 2024, with a second model also slated for release in New Zealand.
Promising Start with the Zeekr X
Connal Yan, managing director of Zeekr Australia, reported a positive response to their Zeekr X SUV, noting over 2,500 expressions of interest for both the X and the multi-purpose 009 model. This demonstrates the growing consumer demand for innovative EV options in Australia.
The Appeal of the Australian EV Market
Despite being a smaller market globally, with 1.2 million vehicles sold in 2023, Australia presents a lucrative opportunity for Chinese automakers. The absence of a local car manufacturing industry and minimal protectionist policies make it an attractive destination. Moreover, the Australian government has actively promoted electric vehicle adoption since 2022 to achieve its zero emissions targets.
Future Plans and Growth Potential
Zeekr is optimistic about making Oceania one of its largest overseas markets, alongside Southeast Asia and Latin America. With new vehicle efficiency standards set to take effect in 2025, the demand for EVs is expected to rise significantly. Additionally, Zeekr plans to introduce another medium-sized SUV, the 7X, in Australia next year, further solidifying its commitment to this market.
