Global economic outlook: Aiming for an economic soft landing

Our expectations for growth in this desynchronized global economy are muted. Rising geopolitical tensions are adding to headwinds that include higher-for-longer interest rates, slower employment and business investment growth amid tight financial conditions and slowing consumer demand.

Global inflation continues to cool, but the disinflationary process is bumpy, and elevated prices are leading to cost fatigue that hinders economic activity. More labor market softening is expected in 2024 as companies turn increasingly conservative with hiring and pay, but there is optimism about a potential productivity growth rebound, in part driven by artificial intelligence.

Business executives need to prepare for slower growth in 2024, while retaining the agility to strike when opportunities for long-term growth present themselves.

Our panelists will discuss:

• The outlook for the 2024 economy and how that is likely to shape business investment decisions
• The impact of geopolitical tensions on businesses and how business leaders can mitigate risk
• Inflation and monetary policy
• The outlook for the labor market
• Financial markets on the edge

Learning outcomes

• Recognize current factors affecting the global economy and outlook.
• Identify likely future scenarios for inflation, growth, interest rates and geopolitical developments.
• Determine how to build resilience into your business based on macroeconomic factors.