Zambia's general election features incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema seeking a second term against 14 challengers. Voters focus on high living costs, economic reforms, and judicial independence amid a redrawn parliamentary map.
The Philippine economy faces fragility due to internal political turmoil, a corruption scandal, energy shocks, and extreme weather, despite inflation easing to 6.4% in June. ING's report highlights ongoing economic pressures, suggesting the central bank may not yet declare victory over inflation.
Iran plans to implement maritime transit fees for ships in the Strait of Hormuz within two months, following a US agreement. This comes after the US lifted its blockade, allowing oil tanker movement. Regional tensions persist, with Israel maintaining its security zone in south Lebanon and Iran seeking to prevent its nuclear weapon acquisition.
A $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran has become a point of contention following a US-Tehran ceasefire agreement, with questions arising over financial responsibility. The deal lacks specifics on fund allocation, and US President Trump has distanced Washington from direct financial obligations, seemingly contradicting VP Vance's earlier remarks.
Sri Lanka has moved away from its 2022 economic collapse, with growth returning, inflation falling, and tourism booming. Supported by an IMF program, the nation has achieved macroeconomic stabilization. However, structural weaknesses, high public debt, and low investment persist, indicating an incomplete recovery.
Sri Lanka has made significant strides in economic stabilization since its 2022 collapse, with growth returning, inflation tamed, and tourism booming. However, structural weaknesses, high public debt, and low investment persist, indicating an incomplete recovery.
Syria's "Syrian Petroleum Company" signed a major executive contract with US companies "ConocoPhillips" and "Novatera Energy" to develop gas fields and increase production. This deal is the first major US energy deal in years and signals the start of "integrated implementation" supported by President Trump's decision to lift sanctions in July 2025. The contract aims to boost production, reduce import bills, and generate export revenues, contributing to Syria's economic recovery and reconstruction.
The US and Iran have agreed a framework deal to end hostilities, potentially reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, experts warn that a return to normal shipping and economic conditions will take months due to logistical challenges and infrastructure repair.
Germany's economic recovery is weaker than anticipated, with experts at DIW halving their growth forecast to 0.5% for the year. Energy prices and structural issues are blamed, while public spending props up growth.
Syria has officially adopted a public-private partnership model for its new financial and investment system, moving away from absolute privatization. A national dialogue aims to attract capital, rebuild the economy, and redefine the state's role as a regulator.
China's industrial profits rose 18.2% year-on-year in the first four months of 2026, accelerating from Q1. This growth, driven by optimized structures, new energy sectors, and falling costs due to effective macro policies, signals a robust economic recovery.
Cash holdings at traditional industry companies listed in Hong Kong and Shanghai have increased, contrasting with tech firms investing in AI. Companies are deploying capital towards buy-backs and dividends due to subdued confidence and weak investment appetite.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is fighting on multiple fronts against critics of her economic stewardship as the Middle East conflict threatens to derail the UK economic recovery she says was underway. Reeves has labelled Trump's war on Iran 'folly' and attacked Conservative opponents, while her team insists the economy was improving before the latest shock. Official data showing 0.5% growth in February and borrowing down £20bn support her case, but oil prices at $100/barrel and potential interest rate rises could wipe out much of her fiscal headroom. An Iran Board meets twice weekly at the Treasury to discuss emergency measures.
Pakistan's nascent economic recovery is under pressure as the US-Iran conflict drives up fuel costs and forces rolling blackouts. Small businesses and households face severe financial strain, while the IMF has downgraded the country's 2026 growth forecast.
The UK labour market shows signs of fragility despite a surprise drop in unemployment to 4.9%. Weak wage growth and rising economic inactivity, coupled with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, create a challenging environment for the Bank of England's interest rate policy.
