World Business Report Global economic predictions for 2026
Dec 31, 2025
Ross Mould, Investment Director at AJ Bell, shares insights on macroeconomic trends, focusing on the US and China's economic trajectories and looming government debt issues. Tom Cheesewright, an applied futurist, predicts a new infrastructure boom, shifts in work patterns towards flexibility, and the resurgence of cash as an analogue countertrend. They discuss the potential impacts of AI on graduate recruitment and the importance of financial planning in a challenging economic landscape, making for a riveting conversation on the future of global economics.
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Eurostar Breakdown Delays Guest Home
- Ross Mould described being stranded when Eurostar services broke down during a holiday.
- He rerouted via a high-speed train and flew home a day late, showing travel disruptions can derail plans.
US Economy Drives Global Sentiment
- The US economy sets the global tone because of its market size and reserve currency status.
- Markets expect 2026 to combine solid growth, falling inflation and ~15% corporate profit growth.
China's Rebalancing Challenge
- China is shifting away from reliance on real estate and heavy manufacturing toward private consumption.
- Authorities may use monetary stimulus and reforms to rebalance growth, but success is uncertain.