There has been no dull moment in watching the global economy in recent months. Our Economics team wrapped up 2017 with a more optimistic growth outlook for 2018. The financial market turmoil in recent weeks shows the other side of this coin: it has been the starkest sign so far of a regime change in the economy. After almost a decade of slow growth, we seem to be returning to what may be called “the old normal”: faster economic growth coming together with the return of increasing costs, inflation, rising interest rates and greater volatility.

Throughout the year we'll keep you informed on how the risks and opportunities of the latest developments play out, their impact on the economic outlook, and how it will shape the global business environment.