The World Bank has warned that the Middle East conflict could slow global economic growth to 2.5% in 2026, down from 2.9%, due to surging energy prices and inflation. Developing countries are particularly at risk, with the bank pledging up to $100bn in support.
The World Bank has reduced its 2026 global growth forecast to 2.5%, citing Middle East conflict, rising energy prices, and market uncertainty. India remains the fastest-growing major economy, projected at 6.6% for FY26-27.
The World Bank forecasts global economic growth to slow to 2.5% this year, citing the Middle East war, rising inflation, and borrowing costs. The report highlights potential disruptions to oil flows, increased fertilizer prices, and a widening gap between developed and developing nations.
The OECD has slashed its global growth outlook, warning that the U.S.-Iran war could cause severe economic damage. A prolonged conflict could reduce global growth to 2.1% in 2026 and 1.8% in 2027, tipping economies into recession and increasing inflation.
The OECD forecasts that a prolonged Middle East conflict, particularly involving Iran, could reduce global GDP growth to 2.1% in 2026, trigger energy shortages, and impact AI investment. Emerging economies are expected to be hit hardest.
McDonald's launched its 'McDonald's > NEXT' global growth strategy, focusing on new restaurant designs, improved food quality, customer-led innovation, and enhanced service to become customers' top choice amidst rising competition and economic pressures.
An analysis suggests China's economic influence and the spillover effects of its fluctuations are underestimated due to low investment goods costs. This could support the yuan's emergence as a strong currency.
The UN has cut its global GDP growth forecast to 2.5% for 2026 and raised inflation projections to 3.9% due to the Middle East crisis and rising oil prices. Economic growth is expected to plunge in West Asia, while developed and developing countries face varying inflation impacts.
The UN has lowered its global GDP growth forecast to 2.5% for this year and 2.8% for 2027, citing the economic fallout from the war on Iran, including rising energy prices and supply shocks. Developing countries are disproportionately affected.
The ILT20 league is experiencing significant global growth, attracting nearly 400 million viewers and expanding its reach across the UK, US, Pakistan, and MENA regions, explained the competition's Head of Partnerships Ishan Chopra. Brands are increasingly engaging beyond mere visibility, integrating campaigns for measurable business outcomes. The league aims to deepen fan engagement and international partnerships for Season 5, building a sustainable premium sports property.
Nyoman Ayu Carmenita (Carmen), a member of K-pop girl group Hearts2Hearts, represents Indonesia's growing influence in the global K-pop industry. Indonesian officials announced President Prabowo Subianto plans to increase K-pop concerts in the country, a move met with excitement by many fans but skepticism from others questioning whether Indonesia is ready to become a major concert destination.
Citi U.K. CEO Tiina Lee told CNBC global growth should remain resilient at around 2.7% for 2026, with a recession not being her base case. She highlighted opportunities in AI, data infrastructure, and energy, noting record M&A volumes in Q1. However, she warned that if the Iran conflict continues into 2027, oil could surge to $120-$150 per barrel, compared to current $111 Brent crude prices.
The IMF has warned that oil prices and ongoing wars could derail global growth, with multiple news items examining US-Iran tensions, including a missing US airman, human chains forming in Tehran, and Trump's ultimatum on the Strait of Hormuz. Coverage also includes Cuba's power crisis affecting expectant mothers and developments in Venezuela.
