Prominent Developments and Market Trends in the Global Economy
On September 15, 2026, key highlights in the global economy included the EU increasing its domestic component requirement, imbalances in China, the Fed's potential rate move, and record metal prices.
On September 15, 2026, major developments in the global economy included the European Union raising its domestic component requirements, economic imbalances in China, interest rate expectations from the Fed, Tokyo's driverless taxi plans, and record levels in the metal market.
Domestic Component and Tax Regulations in the European Union
The European Union proposed raising the mandatory domestic component requirement from 70% to 75% for electric vehicle models to benefit from subsidies and public procurement programs.
Additionally, following the introduction of a fixed 3-euro customs duty on packages under 150 euros, the volume of cheap e-commerce packages decreased by almost half.
China's Economy and Production Records
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics of China, while manufacturing and technology are accelerating with artificial intelligence, the weakening of consumption and investments is exacerbating economic imbalances.
Aluminum production in August 2026 reached a record level, coming very close to the capacity limit set by the government.
US Federal Reserve and Credit Markets
The US Federal Reserve is convening for its meeting on September 15-16 with the possibility of raising interest rates for the first time during Kevin Warsh's tenure as chairman.
According to a report published by Fitch Ratings, the private credit default rate in the US rose to 6.3% as of the end of August, marking a record level.
Technology and Transportation Initiatives
Go Inc., Waymo LLC, and Nihon Kotsu aim to launch the first fully driverless taxi service in Tokyo by 2027.
Microsoft published a draft of rules for its internal artificial intelligence models that includes not resisting human intervention, correcting errors, and not shutting down the system.
Child Protection and Trade Relations
To protect children, the European Union proposed banning children under the age of 15 from using social media and AI-powered chatbots without permission.
US President Donald Trump painted an optimistic picture regarding the resolution of trade disputes with Canada.
Price Increases in Metal Markets
In international markets, factors such as customs duties, surging artificial intelligence demand, and electric vehicle concerns have driven copper prices to record levels.
These fluctuations in raw material markets continue to impact global supply chains and industrial costs.