Latest Finance-Economy News
Global Growth Projected to Slow to 2.6% in 2026
UNCTAD forecasts subdued global economic growth at about 2.6% in 2026, with developing economies excluding China slowing to 4.2%. Major partners like the US, China, and Europe face weakening demand and tighter financial conditions.
Trade enters 2026 under pressure from slower growth and geopolitical fragmentation.
IMF Revises Global Growth Down to 3.1% for 2026
IMF projects global growth slowing to 3.1% in 2026 from 3.2% in 2025, with advanced economies at 1.5% and emerging markets above 4%. Inflation declines but remains above target in the US; risks include protectionism and fiscal vulnerabilities.
Policymakers urged to rebuild buffers and pursue structural reforms.
US CEOs Cite Uncertainty as Top 2026 Threat
43% of US CEOs rank uncertainty as their biggest economic worry for 2026, exceeding the global 29%. Globally, 36% fear recession most; CEOs prioritize AI investment and business model changes.
Financial planning tops priorities at 48% worldwide.
Tariffs Rise, Boosting Protectionism in 2026
Global tariffs increased in 2025, led by US measures on manufacturing, expected to continue for industrial goals. This heightens policy uncertainty, disrupts supply chains, and exposes smaller economies.
Around 18,000 new discriminatory measures since 2020 affect two-thirds of trade.
Value Chains Reconfigure Amid Geopolitics
Geopolitical tensions and industrial policies reshape nearly two-thirds of global trade in value chains. Firms diversify suppliers and relocate production; developing nations need green finance access.
Carbon pricing and standards redefine competitiveness.
Trump EO Ties Critical Minerals to Partnerships
New January 15, 2026, US executive order emphasizes international cooperation for processed critical minerals security. Targets China dominance by negotiating supply agreements, with tariffs if needed.
Considers price supports to counter volatility as national security issue.
Markets Strong in 2026 Despite Geopolitical Shocks
Equity gains driven by earnings, improving GDP momentum, and central bank easing absorb shocks like Venezuela. Growth reaccelerates with supportive policy; watch disinflation reversal or China slowdown.
Constructive outlook amid resilience.
India Leads G20 Growth Outlook for 2026
IMF projections show India topping G20 GDP growth in 2026, with emerging markets outpacing advanced economies. Reflects broader resilience in developing regions amid global slowdown.
BMO Ups Global Growth Forecast to 3.2%
BMO Economics raises 2026 global growth to 3.2% from 3.1%, after 3.3% in 2025. Amid more geopolitics and policy tensions.
Expects similar pace in 2027.
Global Economy Adapts to Tariffs and AI Race
2026 marks settlement into new environment with US barriers, trade reconfiguration, and AI acceleration. Resilient GDP data despite uncertainties like Ukraine war.
China slowdown anticipated amid real estate crisis.
CEOs Prioritize AI and Business Model Overhauls
60% of US CEOs rank business model changes top for profitability, with AI/technology at 42% globally. Amid converging pressures on profits and growth spurring innovation.