Latest Finance-Economy News
IMF Projects Global Growth Slowing to 3.1% in 2026
The IMF's World Economic Outlook Update forecasts global growth declining from 3.3% in 2024 to 3.2% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026, with advanced economies at 1.5% and emerging markets above 4%. Inflation continues to decline globally but remains above target in the US with upside risks.
A press briefing is scheduled for January 19 in Brussels.
US Markets Closed for MLK Day on January 19
NYSE and Nasdaq will be fully closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, halting all equity and bond trading. Most US banks and federal services will also shut down, impacting settlements and operations.
Trading resumes Tuesday with potential yield movements from global developments.
Eurozone CPI Data Released Today at 10:00 UTC
Eurozone headline CPI is expected at 2.0% y/y and core at 2.3% y/y, key for ECB rate cut expectations. Deviations could drive sharp moves in EUR pairs and European equities.
Persistent above-target inflation may strengthen EUR.
Record $396.84 Billion ETF Inflows in 2025
ETFGI reports a record $396.84 billion in net inflows for European ETFs in 2025, with December alone at $36.24 billion, pushing assets to $3.22 trillion. Equity ETFs saw strong investments; S&P 500 up 17.88% for the year.
Gold, Bitcoin, and commodity ETPs also attracted significant flows.
US Core PCE Price Index Due January 22
The Fed's preferred inflation gauge is forecast at 0.2% m/m and 2.7% y/y, influencing 2026 rate cut expectations. Hotter data could raise Treasury yields and pressure risk assets.
Markets brace for volatility from this pivotal release.
Bank of Japan Policy Decision on January 23
BoJ faces scrutiny with core CPI near 3%; potential end to negative rates or yield curve adjustments expected. Governor Ueda's press conference could spark JPY volatility and affect global carry trades.
Monetary Policy Statement and Outlook Report key.
Chief Economists Outlook Highlights AI Boom and Trade Fragmentation
World Economic Forum survey shows tension between negative geopolitics, trade fragmentation, and rallying markets fueled by AI investments. Over half expect US AI productivity gains; 72% foresee job losses.
94% predict more bilateral trade agreements.
AI Investment Optimism Overshadows Global Risks
Chief economists note AI boom driving US market rally despite tariffs and uncertainty; Europe at 2% inflation, China faces deflation. Potential AI stock bubble deflation expected by over half in the US.
Productivity gains anticipated but with job impacts.
US Jobless Claims and Consumer Sentiment on January 23
Initial claims forecast at 223K tests labor market; Michigan Sentiment at 54.0 reflects confidence amid high prices. Data could amplify PCE reactions and shape USD trends.
Key for assessing US economic health.
Global Public Debt Nears GDP Parity Amid Fiscal Boosts
Governments pile up debt nearing economic output parity; fiscal boosts like US tax rebates and Fed pressure noted. Europe's ramping measures and global monetary easing support growth.
Adaptation via more regional trade deals expected.
Global Economic Cooperation 2026 Event Announced
GEC 2026 to focus on infrastructure, manufacturing, tech, energy transitions, and supply chains amid fragmentation threats. India convenes leaders for multipolar cooperation pathways.
Aims to counter protectionism and uncertainty.