Global Scans · Economy · Weekly Summary

DRIVER: The global economy still faces serious headwinds and political uncertainty potentially balanced by the enormous promise of technological advancements in many fields. Read on to get a solid handle on the opportunities and risks you and your organization may likely face and set your sails accordingly.

• [New] In 2026, the prices of electricity will change repeatedly and people are worried about the instability of power in many parts of the world. Day of Dubai
• [New] A moderation in inflation could pave the way for Federal Reserve rate cuts, improving liquidity conditions for risk assets. Khaleej Times
• [New] G20 nations are projected to account for over 80% of global renewables by 2030, with the richest developed economies of the G7 expected to shoulder a leadership role by raising their share to around 20% of global capacity within this decade. Global Renewables Alliance
• [New] Automotive plastic production depends heavily on petrochemical feedstocks whose pricing fluctuates due to crude oil markets, refinery operations, and global supply disruptions. Persistence Market Research
• [New] With the arrival of 2026, tax solutions powered by AI will completely change the way companies handle compliance and financial planning. The Fino Partners
• [New] In view of the fact that global tax fraud cases are on the rise, AI will be the major player in the protection of business data. The Fino Partners
• [New] After several years shaped by supply disruption, cost pressure, and uncertainty in global trade, investment is returning to high-value production, automation, aerospace, defence, and precision engineering. Novo Executive Search and Selection
• [New] The pending Section 301 excess-capacity investigation covering 16 economies including China is still outstanding and could raise Chinese electronics rates by another 10 points before year-end. Marc to Market Marc Chandler on Global FX and Capital
• [New] By 2030, women will own more than half of the world's wealth. Next Big Idea Club
• [New] Botswana is currently undergoing a massive economic transformation under the Vision 2036 framework, aiming to transition into a high-income, export-led economy. Tender Impulse
• [New] As long as millions of barrels remain bottlenecked in the Persian Gulf, Brent crude will maintain a structurally elevated floor, keeping sustained pressure on consumer inflation and directly limiting global economic growth potential throughout the remainder of the year. ClaritX
• [New] Strong earnings forecasts and a recent decline in share prices have left the S&P 500 trading at about 20 times expected earnings, just above its 10-year average of 19 times. ST
• [New] Despite the El Nino threat, the Peruvian economy is expected to grow more than 3% in 2026, driven by high metal prices and strong private spending. financialpost
• [New] Production Systems revenue of $3.77 billion increased 7% sequentially, driven by strong growth in Latin America, Europe & Africa, Asia and North America, despite a decline in the Middle East due to disruptions associated with the regional conflict. Las Vegas Sun
• [New] Renewable energy can be a driver for economic growth and New York City agencies and City Hall have a historic opportunity to create a more permanent, predictable jobs engine. Office of the New York City Comptroller Mark Levine
• [New] A reliable, long-term rollout of solar and battery storage, as well as grid upgrades, is critical to unlocking New York City's economic potential and creating stable, middle-class careers. Office of the New York City Comptroller Mark Levine
• Rising dissatisfaction with the Trump administration's attacks on fuel efficiency standards and rising gas prices due to its highly unpopular elective war on Iran could build political will even among transit skeptics. Stop Greed, Build Green
• The World Economic Forum estimates the total size of biodiversity credit markets at $8 million, but believes that global demand for voluntary biodiversity credits could reach $69 billion by 2050 (WEF and McKinsey, 2023). Bruegel | The Brussels-based economic think tank
• States like California and Washington are banning gasoline engine vehicles in about 10 years, and a major weather event could trigger legislative action like a carbon tax more quickly than expected. Ardmore Banking Advisors, Inc
• Economic headwinds include a trend towards deglobalization and the potential fallout from US-China tensions, which could further strain labor markets and consumer confidence. Ardmore Banking Advisors, Inc
• Climate-fuelled disasters are expected to cost the Australian economy more than $40 billion a year by 2050. Australian Conservation Foundation
• To sustain the dollar's status - and therefore Washington's ability to conduct global financial oversight - the US will need to adopt a combination of economic, regulatory, and diplomatic measures. Hudson Institute
• Today's structural ageing trend will create significant opportunities and drive transformation in the global economy, particularly as supportive policies, healthcare advancements, and wealth accumulation enable longer, active and dignified living. Bank of Singapore

Last updated: 04 August 2026