economic forecasts

Anthropic and the Gates Foundation are committing $200 million over four years to advance AI for public good, focusing on global health, life sciences, education, and economic mobility. This partnership aims to accelerate vaccine development, improve health data utilization, and enhance educational tools for K-12 students and adult learners worldwide.

NATO is considering deploying forces to protect shipping in the Strait of Hormuz if the blockade persists into July, a move that would significantly alter the alliance's stance on the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Growing economic pressure from soaring energy prices is driving this reconsideration, with leaders set to discuss the issue at an upcoming summit.

Oil prices dipped Wednesday after a three-day rally, with traders watching the Iran conflict's ceasefire and the Trump-Xi summit. Despite a slight fall, crude remains above $100 a barrel due to ongoing supply fears. Analysts predict elevated prices for months, impacting global inflation and potentially delaying US interest rate cuts.

Despite global economic headwinds from Middle East turmoil, India's economy is projected for stable growth through FY26 and FY27, with SBI forecasting around 7.5% for FY26. Resilient domestic demand, strong credit expansion, and broad-based improvements in high-frequency indicators support this optimistic outlook, though external vulnerabilities like oil prices and currency movements remain key concerns.

The Indian rupee hit a new low against the US dollar, pressured by rising oil prices and external debt. Analysts link the decline to the US-Iran conflict, which has boosted crude oil costs and strained India's economy. While the RBI and government are intervening, markets anticipate potential interest rate hikes to stabilize the currency and manage inflation.

Beneath Australia's arid outback lies a vast, hidden underground ocean, the Great Artesian Basin, larger than Alaska. This ancient water source, some two million years old, is under immense pressure, naturally flowing to the surface through bores. This subterranean marvel sustains billions in economic activity, supports towns, agriculture, and unique desert oasis, proving that the most vital elements are often unseen.

India has requested the US to extend its waiver on Russian oil imports due to ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. This waiver, crucial for stabilizing oil markets, is set to expire on May 16. Despite US pressure to reduce discounted Russian oil purchases, India prioritizes stable energy supplies, warning of economic consequences from market volatility.

Seeks Singapore Tie-Up for Growth of Capital City

China's exports surged 14.1% in April, significantly exceeding expectations and bolstering the nation's economy despite global uncertainties. This strong performance precedes a crucial meeting between US and Chinese leaders, where trade tensions and other disputes are expected to be discussed. Analysts anticipate continued export-driven growth for China this year.

Tamil Nadu has a non-Dravidian govt after six decades. But its new CM’s campaign speeches have been exemplars of vacuity, we have few clues about how TVK will interpret voters’ desire for change

Indian aviation faces unprecedented turbulence due to a perfect storm of factors. From pandemic fallout and engine failures to airspace closures and a Middle East war driving fuel prices sky-high, airlines are struggling. Passengers face rising fares and cancelled routes as the sector grapples with deep financial distress and operational chaos.

Escalating Middle East conflict has choked the world's busiest oil passage, pushing crude prices past $100 per barrel with warnings of a surge to $167 or higher. A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens a severe energy and trade shock, potentially reducing global trade growth significantly and deepening economic uncertainty worldwide.

Pakistan's economy faces sustained pressure with double-digit inflation likely to persist due to surging global oil prices amid the Middle East crisis. Rising energy costs and regional instability are projected to slow GDP growth and widen the current account deficit, impacting the stock market and currency.

India’s heatwave geography is shifting fast. A new study shows extreme heat is lasting longer, spreading beyond old hotspots and making warm nights, humid cities and outdoor work far more dangerous for millions across the country

Scotland stands on the brink of a financial crisis, yet election rhetoric largely sidesteps the approaching budget difficulties. Analysts predict that challenging times lie ahead due to the relentless growth of public spending that outpaces revenue streams. This dilemma is intensified by mounting pressures for higher public sector salaries and the skyrocketing costs in health and social services.