The Q4 2025 global economic outlook has been upgraded to 2.62% growth, supported by policy-driven demand, easing inflation, and partial tariff rollbacks. Inflation is expected to decline in most regions except the Americas, while major central banks, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and ECB, have cut interest rates to support demand. Global merchandise trade is forecast to grow 2.4% in 2025, though risks remain due to tariffs, supply chain pressures, and weakening demand in

Cyclone Ditwah is expected to push Sri Lanka’s inflation higher due to damage to agriculture and disruptions in supply chains. Analysts warn the rupee may weaken further as the country increases imports of essential goods. The LKR has already depreciated 1.3% in the past month amid low forex liquidity and higher import demand.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon has been named Sri Lanka’s Best Trade Finance Bank at the Euromoney Transaction Banking Awards 2025 for its strong leadership in supporting national trade. The Bank commands significant market share—21% in exports and 14.26% in imports—and handled over US$ 5 billion in trade transactions in 2024. Its digital platform, ComBank TradeLink, along with regional recognition from ADB, further strengthens its position as the country’s leading private sector

Japan has announced a US$19 billion business investment target in Central Asia over the next five years, aiming to deepen economic and strategic ties with the region. The plan focuses on key areas such as natural resources, energy, supply chains, and connectivity, agreed during the inaugural “Central Asia plus Japan” summit in Tokyo. Officials say the initiative reflects Central Asia’s growing geopolitical importance and Japan’s effort to diversify partnerships and critical m

Cyclone Ditwah caused about US$4.1 billion in direct physical damage across Sri Lanka, affecting all 25 districts, around 2 million people, and nearly 500,000 households, making it one of the worst disasters in recent history. The infrastructure sector was the hardest hit, accounting for 42% of losses (US$1.735 billion), followed by housing (US$985 million) and agriculture (US$814 million), with the Central Province — especially Kandy — suffering the most severe impacts.

The IMF projects that inflation in Pakistan will rise in the coming years, potentially reaching nearly 9% by mid-2026, increasing pressure on households and businesses. While GDP growth is expected to remain moderate at just over 3%, high public debt and fiscal constraints continue to limit economic stability. The IMF warns that careful monetary and fiscal management will be necessary to control prices while sustaining growth.

The IMF has approved about US$206 million in emergency funding for Sri Lanka under the Rapid Financing Instrument to address severe economic pressures caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which killed over 600 people and displaced more than 100,000. The Sri Lankan government said the funds will support urgent humanitarian relief, recovery, and reconstruction, while committing to transparency, fiscal discipline, and debt sustainability.

New Zealand’s exports surged to NZ$25.0 billion in the September 2025 quarter, driven by strong global demand for key agricultural products. At the same time, the Māori economy recorded rapid growth, with GDP contributions nearly doubling between 2018 and 2023 and Māori-owned businesses expanding into diverse sectors. Rising business confidence and resilient export performance make 2025 a milestone year for both New Zealand’s trade sector and Māori enterprise.

China has a high number of young, self-made billionaires, reflecting strong wealth creation driven largely by technological innovation. However, analysts warn that increased state control and the lack of protections for failed entrepreneurs are holding back innovation and risk-taking. Experts say a more supportive environment is needed to sustain China’s entrepreneurial momentum.

Sri Lanka’s merchandise exports remained nearly unchanged in October 2025, reflecting a marginal 0.02% rise despite declines in major industries like apparel and tea. Strong growth in coconut-based products was not enough to offset reduced export earnings from petroleum, rubber, boats, and spices. The slowdown in key markets such as the United States and India further highlights the challenges facing the country’s export sector.

Stablecoins are rapidly expanding and could drain valuable retail deposits from euro zone banks, weakening their funding stability. The ECB warns that a run on major stablecoins could trigger large sell-offs of U.S. Treasury assets, disrupting global financial markets. Additional risks could impact the euro zone if jointly issued stablecoins face heavy redemptions under differing regulations.

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