Macroeconomic Analysis

Slowdown in productivity growth posing a medium term challenge for developing countries Weaker-than-expected first quarter growth in the United States of America Plunge in cocoa prices delaying economic recovery in West Africa

The United States Federal Reserve raises its key policy rate by 25 basis points, amid continued strengthening of labour market conditions Rapid rise in inflation poses policy challenges for several developing economies in Africa, South Asia and Western Asia East Asian economies are experiencing a rebound in exports, but the trade outlook faces significant downside risks

Rising headline inflation primarily reflects higher energy prices, amid a modest recovery in global demand Stronger-than-expected fourth quarter growth in Canada, China and India Argentina and Brazil are set to emerge from recession

According to the World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2017, the world economy remains trapped in a prolonged period of slow growth Weak investment is a major cause of the slowdown in global growth East Asia and South Asia remain the world?s most dynamic regions

Marking 70 years of publication, UN/DESA's flagship report on the state of the global economy, the World Economic Situation and Prospects 2017, was launched today in New York by Assistant-Secretary-General for Economic Development, Lenni Montiel, and Senior Economic Affairs Officer, Dawn Holland. The report states that world gross product is forecast to expand by 2.7 per cent in 2017 and 2.9 per cent in 2018, with this modest recovery more an indication of economic stabilization than a signal of a robust and sustained revival of global demand.? Regional launches will take place in Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Beirut, Geneva, Johannesburg, Mexico City, Moscow and New Delhi throughout the week. Watch the global outlook [link to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBYlk1idPzc] Full report and other press materials [link to: http://bit.ly/WESP]

Rates of return in the United States rise relative to the rest of the world European Union sanctions against the Russian Federation extended Recent improvement in East Asia?s exports could see setback amid significant uncertainties

Dollar strengthens in the aftermath of the United States presidential election OPEC agrees to first production cut since the global financial crisis India announces demonetization policy

Surge in global bond issuance may pose a risk to the global economy Saudi Arabia raises $17.5 billion in record sovereign bond sale by an emerging economy Egypt devalues pound to alleviate persistent foreign currency shortages

The Bank of Japan announces decision to cap 10-year bond yields to address deflation and restore profitability and growth United States household incomes rise sharply in 2015 The Nigerian economy contracts at a faster pace amid significant macroeconomic challenges