Latest Industry Trends News
AI Enters Selective Investment Phase in 2026
AI remains a dominant theme but shifts to selectivity as capital flows differentiate competitors. Investors focus on leaders amid evolving impacts on productivity. Chief economists note upbeat AI productivity gains in specific sectors.
AI Drives Massive Global Energy Demand Surge
AI is rapidly increasing energy needs, boosting all forms including renewables and traditional sources, delaying net-zero to post-2050. Long-term, AI aids forecasting and grid efficiency. This reshapes priorities toward energy security.
Global Growth Slows to 3.1% in 2026
IMF projects global growth declining to 3.1% in 2026 from 3.3% in 2024, with advanced economies at 1.5%. Emerging markets grow above 4%, but risks include protectionism and debt. Inflation declines variably.
Climate Resilience Becomes Business Essential
Climate resilience integrates into investor due diligence, board agendas, and risk assessments. Improved physical hazard data accelerates this shift across industries. It's now table stakes for operations.
Cleantech Funding Rises Despite Market Slowdown
Climate tech funding grew 8% in 2025 despite deal lows, with larger checks for battery recycling, logistics, and AI solutions. Breakthroughs target hard-to-abate emissions. Investors prioritize promising low-carbon tech.
Supply Chain Decarbonisation Gains Momentum
Companies target Scope 3 emissions via supplier collaboration, with procurement-driven action rising. Transparency and value chain reductions build resilience against carbon pricing. Differentiation comes from emissions cuts.
US Growth Improves on AI Investments
Chief economists see brighter US prospects driven by strong AI-related investments. Regional divergences show South Asia strongest, Europe weak, China rebalancing. AI stocks may face 52% expected deflation.
Asia Fuels Heavy Oil Demand Growth
Rising Asian incomes boost demand for plastics feedstock, with emerging Asia driving 80% of net oil growth to 2030. Canada eyes markets amid slow global demand rise. Guyana ramps production rapidly.
Central Banks Hold Rates Steady in 2026
Bank of Canada and Fed expected to keep rates unchanged, with Canada's at neutral and US restrictive. Demographics slow labour force growth in both nations. Productivity fuels expansion sans jobs.
China Cuts Canola Tariffs in Canada Trade Deal
China lowers canola seed tariffs from 85% to 15%, drops others on meal, lobster, peas. Canada reduces EV surtax to 6.1% for 49,000 vehicles quota. Aids $5B export market recovery.
Carbon Removal Credits Stage Comeback
Offsetting revives with better verification, additionality standards amid tightening legislation like China's IFRS adoption. Supports climate risk management. Enhances business sustainability strategies.
Industrial Policies Aid China Rebalancing
Sustained stimulus, rate cuts, fiscal spending drive China's domestic demand growth to 4.6% in 2026. Data on production, retail, investment track progress. Better balanced expansion expected.