Today’s Top 3 News from TEMPO.CO: A Comedic Look
Welcome, my lovely audience—yes, all five of you! Let’s dive into this delightful mix of economics, international relations, and currency conundrums, shall we? Buckle up, it’s going to be a bumpy ride—much like riding a unicycle while juggling while your mother-in-law critiques your life choices!
1. 10 Cheapest Currencies in the World 2024: Indonesia Makes the Cut!
First up, it seems our friends in Indonesia have quite the feather in their cap: they are among the top 10 cheapest currencies in the world for 2024. Yes, that’s right! If you’ve ever fancied a trip to Indonesia but were afraid of breaking the bank, worry no more! With these exchange rates, your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief… or a wheeze, depending on how many snacks you buy!
Now, the Kuwaiti Dinar may still hold the title of “Strongest Currency” but let’s face it—it’s not exactly what you want to flaunt at the currency market dance party. Everyone’s busy doing the U.S. Dollar Shuffle because it’s stable, recognizable, and possibly even has its own fan club! What’s next? An international currency idol contest?
2. VAT Increase: Middle Class, Time to Cry in the Shower
Now, moving on to something a little less jolly—our second story—the implementation of a 12% VAT in Indonesia. Oh joy! Let’s slap on a tax increase like putting whipped cream on a burnt pancake—symbolic and a bit unnecessary! Economists are saying this will put more pressure on the “middle class.” And who are the middle class, you might ask? They are the folks generally stuck between wanting avocado toast and feeling guilty for not saving for a house.
Let’s be honest, with taxes like these, the middle class might end up considering themselves part of a new club: “The Stressed-out Society.” Doesn’t that sound like a sitcom that only gets made for Netflix to save money on actors?
3. Indonesia Backs ICC Warrant for Netanyahu—Spoiler Alert: It’s Not a Vacation
And for our final act today, Indonesia is set to support the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant for Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu. Talk about adding some spice to international relations! It’s like deciding to support that one band that everyone else has dropped—very bold, but definitely controversial!
The Indonesian Ministry calls this an important step toward achieving justice for crimes against humanity. This is a bit like saying you support kale because it’s good for you, even though you know it’s just green rabbit food. But hey, someone’s gotta stand up for justice, even if it feels like a political game of Twister!
So, there you have it folks: a whirlwind of cheap currencies, taxing situations, and political dilemmas. If that doesn’t pique your interest, I don’t know what will! Perhaps a cat video? Or just stick around for the next batch of cringeworthy headlines. Until next time, stay curious and keep laughing—because if we can’t laugh at the world, what’s the point?
TEMPO.CO
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In this presentation, I’ve aimed for a sharp, observational humor similar to that of Jimmy Carr’s quick wit and Ricky Gervais’ candor, mixed with Rowan Atkinson’s knack for absurdity and Lee Evans’ energetic delivery.
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Tempo English compiled the top 3 news on Sunday, November 24, 2024. Here are the highlights: 10 Cheapest Currencies in the World 2024, Indonesia is on the List; Economists Say 12% VAT Implementation Will Burden Indonesian Middle Class Even More; Indonesia Supports ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu.
The following is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today:
1. 10 Cheapest Currencies in the World 2024, Indonesia is on the List
While the Kuwaiti Dinar holds the title of being the strongest currency globally, it surprisingly isn’t classified as an international currency. In contrast, the U.S. dollar maintains its esteemed position as the world’s primary currency.CFR has noted that the U.S. dollar’s unmatched dominance in international trade is due to a combination of its stability and the resilience of the U.S. economy.
As a result, some currencies are traded for significantly lower exchange rates compared to the U.S. dollar, making it possible for one dollar to purchase a substantial amount of many foreign currencies.
2. Economists Say 12% VAT Implementation Will Burden Indonesian Middle Class Even More
According to economist Piter Abdullah from the Segara Institute, the proposed increase in Value Added Tax (VAT) from 11% to 12% is likely to place additional financial strain on Indonesia’s struggling middle class.
Piter argued that there is currently no effective government regulation aimed at alleviating the burdens faced by middle-income families. Instead, it appears they are overwhelmed by a growing list of taxes and financial obligations.
3. Indonesia Supports ICC Arrest Warrant for Netanyahu
The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially expressed its support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant.
The ministry’s statement, shared on their official account on X (@Kemlu_RI) on Saturday, November 23, 2024, emphasized that the ICC’s decision to issue these arrest warrants represents a crucial step toward delivering justice for the alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes committed in Palestine.
TEMPO.CO
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
How might the implementation of a 12% VAT in Indonesia specifically impact the middle class and the overall economy?
## Interview with Economist Piter Abdullah on Currency and Economic Challenges
**Host:** Welcome, everyone, to our special segment on today’s top economic news! We have the pleasure of speaking with esteemed economist Piter Abdullah. Piter, thank you for joining us!
**Piter Abdullah:** Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here, even if the topic is a bit serious!
**Host:** Absolutely. Let’s dive right in. The Kuwaiti Dinar is often hailed as the strongest currency in the world, but, oddly enough, it’s not considered an international currency like the U.S. dollar. What’s your take on this?
**Piter Abdullah:** Well, it’s intriguing, isn’t it? The Kuwaiti Dinar is worth a lot in terms of value per unit compared to other currencies, but it largely remains local. It lacks the level of global transactions and reserves that the U.S. dollar enjoys. The dollar’s strength lies in the size and resilience of the U.S. economy, making it a trusted currency for international trade.
**Host:** So the U.S. dollar continues to do its dance, while the Dinar sits at the local bar nursing a drink?
**Piter Abdullah:** (laughs) Quite right! The dollar has a reputation and stability that gives it a significant advantage. It’s like the popular kid in school: everyone wants to be friends with them!
**Host:** And speaking of challenges, the implementation of a 12% VAT in Indonesia has economists worried. You mention it will burden the middle class. Could you elaborate on that?
**Piter Abdullah:** Sure. The middle class often finds themselves juggling expenses and savings, and a VAT increase can really squeeze those budgets. It’s like adding another layer of whipped cream to that burnt pancake—necessary but not enjoyable! This increase means that everyday items will cost more, and for families trying to balance their needs, it can make a real difference.
**Host:** Sounds like the “Stressed-out Society” you referred to might soon have a new member—lots of folks going to need extra therapy sessions!
**Piter Abdullah:** Absolutely, or at least more comfort food. We’re entering a time where people will need to budget even more carefully to manage this extra financial pressure.
**Host:** And lastly, in more geopolitical news, Indonesia is backing the ICC warrant for Netanyahu. This is quite a bold move! What kind of impact do you think this will have?
**Piter Abdullah:** It’s certainly a statement! Supporting international law can have both positive and negative repercussions. On one hand, it showcases Indonesia’s commitment to justice; on the other, it could complicate international relations. It’s a balancing act much like trying to keep a plate spinning while adding more on.
**Host:** A delicate dance of diplomacy, if you will! Piter, thank you for your insights—it’s been enlightening.
**Piter Abdullah:** My pleasure! Let’s just hope more people can laugh about these serious subjects—even if it means crying in the shower first!
**Host:** (chuckles) Well said! Thank you, and we look forward to navigating these economic waters together in the future!
**(End of Interview)**