Latest Industry Trends News
Global GDP Forecast Revised Upward to 3.0% for 2026
FXStreet estimates global economy grew 3.1% in 2025, revising 2026 GDP forecast higher to 3.0% from 2.8%, driven by stronger U.S., China, and India outlooks. Resilience persists despite risks, with limited G10 rate cuts but more easing in emerging markets.
U.S. dollar expected to weaken early 2026 before recovering.
IMF Projects Gradual Global Growth Slowdown to 3.1% in 2026
IMF forecasts global growth slowing to 3.2% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026 from 3.3% in 2024, with advanced economies at 1.5%. Inflation declines globally but remains above target in U.S.
Downside risks include protectionism and fiscal vulnerabilities.
First Year-Over-Year Decline in Global Solar Additions Expected
S&P Global anticipates the first decline in global solar capacity additions in 2026, led by China's slowdown, ending uninterrupted expansion. This prompts industry consolidation and shifts to hybrid power agreements with battery storage.
Data centers drive clean power demand.
China to Lead Green Hydrogen Production and Exports in 2026
China will rapidly scale green hydrogen amid falling electrolyzer costs, exporting technology and molecules to become global leader. Policy support accelerates this trend in clean molecules shift.
Sustainable aviation fuel capacity grows 33%, led by Asia.
EU CBAM Imposes $15B Import Costs, Reshaping Supply Chains
EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism fully effective Jan 1, adding at least $15B in costs for carbon-intensive imports like steel and cement. Encourages shift to low-carbon suppliers, harmonizing emissions reporting.
Impacts corporate clean power strategies globally.
AI Infrastructure to Strain Global Power Grids by 2030s
World Economic Forum warns AI data centers could consume 20% of global electricity by 2030-2035, driven by emerging middle classes and AI buildout. U.S. AI power needs may rise 30x in a decade, stressing critical infrastructure.
Interdependencies heighten blackout risks.
Critical Minerals Drive Geopolitical Trade Diplomacy
Supply chains for copper, lithium, rare earths shape 2026 geopolitics amid AI, electrification demands. China dominates cleantech like solar panels, boosting ties with Africa.
Investment screening rises in G20 for national security.
Technology and AI Stocks Lead but Valuations Elevated
Corient outlook notes U.S. tech/AI stocks driving 22% earnings growth in 2026, but elevated valuations favor other sectors. International equities likely outperform U.S. due to weaker dollar and reforms.
Fiscal stimulus via OBBBA boosts consumers.
Infrastructure Investment Booms for AI Buildout
Investing in data centers, power, grids, battery storage offers 'picks and shovels' exposure to AI without stock picking. Government deficits create private capital opportunities.
Alternatives enhance portfolio diversification.
Energy Transition, Oil, Defense Top Sectors Amid Tensions
Nasdaq highlights energy transition, oil, defense as key 2026 sectors as geopolitics reshape trade. NextEra Energy (NEE) positioned for gains in power and grid investments.
Global tensions amplify these trends.
Limited G10 Rate Cuts, Easing in Emerging Markets
Only Fed, Bank of England, Norges Bank expected to cut rates in G10; broader easing in Asia, EMEA. Latin America diverges with tightening like Colombia.
Reduced trade uncertainty supports activity.
Global AI Spending Hits $2 Trillion in 2026
Worldwide AI investment projected at $2T in 2026, up from $1.5T in 2025, covering genAI, servers, semiconductors. Risks include investor doubts on capex returns or inequality from job shifts.
Quantum tech may disrupt data centers long-term.