Global Economy News
LAST UPDATE: July 16, 2025
OPEC Expects Progress on Trade, Holds Oil-Demand Outlook Steady
OPEC maintained its oil-demand growth forecasts for 2025–26, citing improving global trade conditions, and plans to boost output by ~548,000 bpd in August.
Insight
Optimistic demand outlook and output increase signal OPEC’s confidence in economic recovery and strategic production moves to regain market share.
G20 think tanks call for an overhaul of IMF and World Bank financing model
The T20 (Think‑20) group of G20‑linked think tanks proposed reforms to IMF and World Bank governance, including quota reallocation, removal of veto rights, and better transparency in credit ratings; they also support empowering the WTO and harmonizing infrastructure standards.
Insight
These recommendations reflect a push for more inclusive and development‑focused international financial institutions, reducing dominance by advanced economies.
Merchandise trade volume growth stronger than expected in Q1 2025, says WTO report
WTO reports that global merchandise trade volume rose 3.6% QoQ and 5.3% YoY in Q1 2025, led by North American import boosts ahead of expected U.S. tariff hikes; annual forecast lifted from –0.2% to +0.1%.
Insight
The spike may represent front‑loading behavior rather than sustained momentum, underscoring trade policy uncertainty’s impact on timing of global demand.
NATO chief says Brazil, China and India could be slammed by sanctions
NATO Secretary‑General warned that Brazil, China, and India may face severe secondary sanctions if they continue economic ties with Russia, following U.S. threats of 100% tariffs on buyers of Russian exports without peace agreement.
Insight
The statement highlights geopolitical risk for major emerging powers from U.S./NATO pressure tactics, weaponizing trade relationships.
