Africa: Addressing Challenges Old and New

31 August 2023 In a recent blog, I outlined the risk of near-term liquidity problems in certain African nations. And, while I suggested a region-wide debt crisis can be averted, it's important to put the issue in a broader context. In particular, as a result of the rise in regional debt levels (both domestic and [...]

Asia: Will Global Growth Engine Outperform?

28 May 2023 The IMF's recently released global forecast highlights that Asia will be the only region to experience stronger economic growth this year relative to 2022. Likewise, the Asian economy will outperform all other regions both this year and in 2024 (Chart above). Indeed, the following Chart indicates that Asia will account for over [...]

China: Population Decline = Growth Headwind

22 January 2023 In addition, China's shrinking population will continue to shape both the nation's long-term economic strategy, and the government's short-term policy focus. In particular, with inflation low, monetary and fiscal policy will need to remain stimulative. However, government spending priorities will need to be altered dramatically. This shift will not only support China's [...]

China: 2023 May Be Even Tougher than 2022

28 October 2022 At China's recently concluded 20th Communist Party Congress, Xi Jinping was re-elected to an unprecedented third term as Party leader. Xi now appears set to lead both the Party and government for the next five years, and likely even longer. With political power now secured, can the same be said about the [...]