Latest Industry Trends 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, though above target in the US with upside risks. Downside risks include protectionism, labor shocks, and fiscal vulnerabilities.
Goldman Sachs Forecasts Sturdy 2.8% Global Growth in 2026
Goldman Sachs Research predicts global growth of 2.8% in 2026, above consensus 2.5%, driven by US outperformance at 2.6% due to reduced tariffs, tax cuts, and easier conditions. This outlook contrasts with IMF's more cautious projection.
AI Capital Expenditures Surge to $400 Billion in 2025
AI-related capex hit nearly $400 billion last year, up from $239 billion in 2024, driven by tech giants' investments in cloud computing and data centers. Projections show investments climbing to $515 billion in 2026, fueling infrastructure buildout.
This boom is reshaping economies without typical bubble signs yet.
Canadian Manufacturing Sales Drop 2.3% on Auto Weakness
Manufacturing sales fell 2.3% in November, with motor vehicles down 15.9% and parts 6.3%. AI strength offsets geopolitical uncertainty, but auto sector drags performance.
High inventory buffers and supply chain frictions add cost pressures.
China's Trade Surplus Hits Record $1.2 Trillion
China achieved a record annual trade surplus of US$1.2 trillion. This milestone underscores robust export performance amid global volatility.
It influences commodity trends and supply chain shifts.
Silver Surges 13.37% to New Highs Above $89
Silver extended its rally, gaining over 25% in early January to above $89, leading metals trends. Trend breadth expanded to 45%, signaling broader participation.
This reflects strong uptrends in commodities.
Lumber Rebounds 7.79% in Soft Commodities Rally
Soft commodities rose 0.94%, led by lumber's sharp 7.79% surge and orange juice up 2.38%. Cocoa declined 4.81%, highlighting sector divergence.
Energy gained modestly with heating oil up 4.54%.
Bitcoin Breaks Out to $95,000 Level
Bitcoin rose 5.81%, reclaiming $95,000 after consolidation, resuming its uptrend. This move aligns with expanding trend participation in crypto and metals.
Soybean oil also surged 5.68% amid grains divergence.
IAB Launches AI Transparency Framework for Advertising
The Interactive Advertising Bureau released its first AI disclosure framework as AI tools generate ad copy, images, and personalize campaigns. It addresses transparency needs amid rapid AI adoption in marketing.
Trends emphasize trust, leadership, and reinvention in branding.
US Growth Accelerating with Declining Recession Odds in 2026
Consensus revises up US growth forecasts for 2026 as recession probability falls. This supports outperformance amid K-shaped economy dynamics.
Retail sales remain sluggish for lower incomes.
Private Equity Trends Focus on AI and Digital Infrastructure
MoFo's report highlights 2025 PE trends in AI, data centers, sustainability, and technology for 2026 outlook. Key areas include lending, M&A, and sectors like life sciences and food.
Global and regional predictions emphasize these industries.
PMIs and Macro Data Signal Key Industry Insights Ahead
Upcoming PMIs for Eurozone, US, UK, India show most regions hovering above 50 growth threshold. Canadian retail sales and US macro readings to reveal holiday trends and supply chain frictions.
Inventory buffers raise price pressures.