In 2023, the U.S. Federal Reserve (1) its benchmark interest rate multiple times to curb persistent core inflation, which remained well above its 2% target. This policy shift had spillover effects on global venture capital (VC) markets, as cross-border investment (2) became more expensive. Many early-stage startups focused on international expansion found it harder to secure funding, (3) VC investors shifted focus to profitable models rather than unprofitable rapid growth. The 2024 Indo-Pacific Economic Framework trade agreement, signed by 14 member economies, also (4) the direction of cross-border investment flows. The agreement (5) reduced tariffs on clean energy technology, creating new incentives for VC firms to (6) in renewable energy startups operating across member states. Economists note that (7) central bank policies and trade agreements shape VC trends in interconnected ways. Higher interest rates (8) reduce the amount of risk capital available, while favorable trade rules can (9) offset this contraction by opening new market opportunities. Most industry analysts (10) that balanced policy coordination will support sustainable VC growth through 2024.