SA Economy Nearing ‘Escape Velocity’, Says Standard Bank

South Africa’s economy is entering a period of recovery as structural reforms in energy and logistics begin to take hold, according to Standard Bank Group. Chief economist Goolam Ballim projects the nation’s growth will reach 1.7% by 2027, outpacing the International Monetary Fund’s 1.3% forecast, as institutional capacity improves and infrastructure bottlenecks ease. Infrastructure Efficiency … Read more

BofA: Why Investors Should Stay Long USD Through Q3

Bank of America analysts maintain a bullish outlook on the U.S. dollar for the third quarter, citing robust domestic economic growth and expectations of three Federal Reserve rate hikes this year. The bank’s strategy team advises investors to remain long on the dollar and short on the euro, adjusting their EUR/USD year-end forecast downward to … Read more

What Smart People Are Saying About Mandani’s Proposed Home Tax

Recent York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul have jointly announced a new tax proposal targeting wealthy individuals who own second homes within the city. The proposed “pied-à-terre” tax would apply to luxury properties valued at more than $5 million. According to the Hochul Administration, this initiative could generate up to $500 million … Read more

‘ANC must go for the economy to grow’

South Africa’s economic future is uncertain, with some analysts suggesting fundamental political change may be necessary for sustained growth. This assessment comes following a panel discussion at North-West University’s Business School focused on the direction of policy in an election year. Dawie Roodt on the ANC and Economic Control Chief economist at Efficient Group, Dawie … Read more

Bullock says government spending not sole factor pushing inflation higher as political fight heats up

RBA Rate Hike: Is Government Spending Fueling Inflation? Australia’s Reserve Bank (RBA) recently increased the cash rate to 3.85%, the first hike since 2023, sparking debate about the drivers of persistent inflation. RBA Governor Michele Bullock faced grilling from a parliamentary committee, with opposition MPs focusing on the role of government spending. The central bank’s … Read more

Extractive-led economic growth fuels environmental crisis – Society

President Prabowo Subianto’s administration’s ambition to achieve 8 percent economic growth by 2029 through expanded extractive industries is raising concerns about potential environmental damage and increased social inequality, according to the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi). Growth Targets and Economic Realities Since taking office in October 2024, President Subianto has publicly stated his goal … Read more

World Bank slightly raises economic growth forecast for SA

Sub-Saharan Africa’s Economic Outlook: A Cautious Rise Amid Global Uncertainty Sub-Saharan Africa is poised for economic expansion, with forecasts now projecting a 4.3% growth rate in 2026 – a slight uptick from previous estimates. However, this positive trajectory exists within a complex global landscape, heavily influenced by geopolitical factors and the economic policies of major … Read more

Tampa real estate market enters a more selective phase

Tampa Bay Real Estate: From Boom to Balance – What’s Next? Tampa’s commercial real estate market, a star performer in recent years, is entering a new phase. The breakneck speed of expansion is moderating, replaced by a more discerning approach to deals. While growth continues, it’s no longer a simple story of rising tides. Experts … Read more

6 Prerequisites for Indonesia to Reach 6% Economic Growth, Says Analyst

Indonesia’s economic analysts suggest achieving 6 percent economic growth in 2026 is a possibility, though the government’s official target currently stands at 5.4 percent. This optimism stems from anticipated improvements in fiscal and monetary policies, and a focus on key strategic priorities. Key Prerequisites for Growth Economic policy expert Ajib Hamdani, from the Indonesian Employers … Read more

Why skilled trades are vital to Pennsylvania’s future

Pennsylvania’s Skilled Trades: Building the Future Workforce As we observe the importance of skilled trades, we’re also looking toward the future. What does the landscape of skilled labor in Pennsylvania look like? How can we address the impending worker shortfall and foster a robust, skilled workforce that drives economic growth? Let’s dive in. The Looming … Read more