By Jessica Cheam

AS THE election euphoria from Senator Barack Obama's historic United States presidential election victory subsides, more sober questions are emerging.

For instance, what does the return of the Democrats to the White House after eight years' absence signal for Asia, and for Singapore in particular? Will trade protectionism take hold in the US?

Broadly, economists that The Straits Times spoke to agreed Mr Obama's win is a positive outcome for Asia as he is seen to symbolise the change required to turn around the flagging US economy. The world's No.1 economy is a key export market for Asia, including Singapore.

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