The US is approaching a presidential election in November 2024. The outcome of the election will shape the country’s future fiscal, monetary and trade policies, which will in turn influence the growth trajectory of the world’s largest economy, while having spillover effects globally.
Ageing, urbanisation and health concerns are significant factors shaping global population trends. As populations age, we witness a rise in “super-aged” countries where seniors represent a substantial segment of consumers with considerable purchasing power. Meanwhile, Generation Z, though not yet affluent, wield considerable influence through numbers and heightened focus on values. Additionally, climate change now becomes a critical concern for consumers centred on health and wellbeing.
The Gulf Cooperation Council's (GCC) strong economic base, high urbanisation and strategic investments in non-oil sectors have positioned the region as a key player in global economic trends. With a GDP surpassing USD2 trillion in 2023 and continued growth driven by rising employment, particularly among women, the region is set to see increased consumer spending and a booming retail sector, especially in e-commerce.
An improving supply outlook and muted demand have eased pressures in the commodity markets. In 2024, weaker manufacturing activity in key markets is set to limit price growth for energy and metals, while robust crop forecasts should curb agrifood price increases.
The global economy has witnessed a sustained period of resilient growth as it enters the second half of 2024, driven by falling inflation and better-than-expected employment and private consumption. Short-term growth prospects, however, will be undermined by a still-high interest rate environment, while a potential cooling down of the labour market and growing political uncertainty would affect global business and consumer confidence.
Growing political and economic tensions are leading to supply chain diversification efforts, with new regional trade hubs emerging in Asia, Europe and the Americas. However, it remains unclear if new manufacturing hubs can fully replace China in global supply chains due to China's dominance in the hi-tech goods sector and underdeveloped supporting industries in other countries.