Latest Finance-Economy News
IMF Projects Global Growth Slowing to 3.1% in 2026
The IMF's January 2026 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 is expected to decline globally but remains above target in the US with upside risks
. Risks include protectionism, debt, and labor shocks, urging credible policies and structural reforms
.
PwC Forecasts Steady Global GDP Growth of 2.7% for 2026
PwC predicts global GDP growth at 2.7% in 2026, matching 2025 levels, driven by AI investments and resilient consumers but uneven across regions. US growth holds at 2.1% anchored by AI and consumer spending, while India leads at 6.7% via high-tech exports
. Rising energy and medical costs may sustain core inflation, heightening monetary policy sensitivity
.
Flash PMIs to Reveal January Economic Trends Worldwide
Upcoming flash PMI surveys will offer first insights into January 2026 growth, inflation, and labor trends amid subdued confidence and geopolitical tensions. Data will assess if December slowdowns persist, with focus on US tariff pass-through effects on prices
. Key releases include China GDP, US/UK inflation, and UK jobs data
.
Bank of Japan Eyes Cautious Policy at January Meeting
The BOJ meets to set rates after raising to 0.75% in December, a 30-year high, but likely holds steady amid growth, inflation signs, and trade risks. PMI surveys indicate strengthening economy, pressuring further tightening cautiously
. Low rates keep yen weak by international standards
.
UK Awaits Labour, Retail, Inflation Data Amid Rate Cut Calls
UK releases job market, retail sales, and inflation stats following strong November GDP and slowdown to 3.2% inflation. Weak jobs may boost Bank of England rate cut pressure if inflation drops further
. Data align with sluggish PMI-trended growth
.
WEF Chief Economists Highlight AI Surge, Debt, Trade Risks for 2026
Chief Economists survey identifies surging AI investments, critical debt levels, and trade realignments as 2026 trends. US outlook improves to 69% moderate growth; China mixed; Europe weakest at 53% weak growth
. Calls for agility in navigating uncertainty while building resilience
.
Scotiabank Sees US Fed Delivering Three More Rate Cuts in 2026
Fed expected to cut rates thrice more to 3%, tolerating higher inflation for growth and jobs amid stubborn pressures from tariffs. Canada may hike rates mid-year as growth holds and inflation sticks, reversing easing
. US consumer spending to slow with labor weakness
.
World Bank Urges Embedding Nature in Economic Policy
World Bank's 'Reboot Development' report stresses economy's embedment in nature, advocating nature-positive investments for jobs and GDP. Launch highlights soil degradation's current economic impacts and efficient growth via services
. Challenges delays in fossil fuel transition as economically harmful
.
China GDP and Inflation Data Due with Stimulus Focus
China releases GDP, inflation alongside industrial, retail, investment updates showing 2025 growth at 5%. 2026 slowdown to 4.6% expected more balanced via rate cuts, fiscal spending, industrial policies boosting demand
.
Market Insiders Eye Bull Rally, Bank Earnings, Netflix in 2026
Yahoo Finance discusses potential 2026 bull market, bank earnings takeaways, and Netflix preview amid top stories. Klarna CEO on credit, Carhartt CEO insights, and market opportunities highlighted
. Focus on AI and earnings driving sentiment
.
PCE Inflation at 2.8%; Upcoming US Data in Week Ahead
Latest September PCE inflation held at 2.8% core and headline, with new US inflation numbers due alongside China GDP. Flash PMIs and PMI selling prices to gauge tariff inflation pass-through
.
US Growth Near 2% Potential; AI, Energy Key Drivers
Controllers Council outlook sees 2026 US growth near 2% long-term potential if unchanged. PwC notes AI, data centers powering steady expansion despite rising electricity costs
.