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Foreign direct investment (FDI) into Japan has been increasing recently, contradicting the belief Japan is a closed market. Per the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), total FDI for 2016 increased more than USD $30 billion over the prior year and 2016 represented the third consecutive yearly increase. Increased FDI from Asian multinational corporations (MNCs) has been noteworthy, recording a 16.7 percent jump over 2015.

The Korean government has been well-known for the significant support it gives to startups pursuant to its “Creative Economy” policy, which aims to stimulate economic growth through innovation and job creation. Ironically, given this strong backing, there have been an increasing number of Korean startups investing abroad to bypass the strict regulations of their home country. Although Korean startups have advanced technology, they are hamstrung by burdensome government regulations.

Syria’s civil war has been highly destructive. Basic infrastructure in much of the country has been destroyed, cities have been leveled, and huge populations displaced. However, the war is winding down, leaving the autocratic al-Assad regime, backed by Russia and Iran, in power. While the political situation is being sorted out, China is quietly emerging as an important player in what comes next, the estimated USD $200 billion reconstruction of Syria.