Global Business Highlights: Latest Economic & Corporate Developments

🌍 Global business & economy

International Monetary Fund (IMF) revises up growth outlook for China

The IMF’s latest review estimates China’s economy will grow by 5.0% in 2025 and 4.5% in 2026. IMF
But they also warn that China remains heavily reliant on exports and needs to boost domestic consumption to avoid future economic imbalances. IMF+1

Rise in global air-freight costs points to pressure on trade and logistics

According to recent data, global airfreight rates rose significantly in early December 2025, though they remain slightly below last year’s levels. globaltrademag.com
The increase was especially sharp on major shipping routes from Asia to Europe, the U.S., India, and other destinations. globaltrademag.com

Silver hits record high — what this signals for the economy

Silver prices recently reached a new record high, driven by demand from industries like data centers and electric vehicles, as well as new tariffs. The Washington Post
The surge has implications for inflation, investment trends, and commodity markets globally. The Washington Post

“Forever layoffs”: Over a million workers lost jobs by November 2025

According to a recent report, more than 1.1 million workers have been laid off globally by November — the highest number since 2020. Fortune
The wave of layoffs has raised concerns about a potential “white-collar recession,” affecting job security across multiple sectors. Fortune

Amazon to invest $35 billion in India by 2030 — major expansion push

Amazon announced plans to invest more than US$35 billion in India by 2030, targeting growth in AI, exports, logistics, and expanding operations. Reuters
The move is likely to create up to a million jobs and underscores the importance of India’s growing digital and retail market. Reuters

British Business Bank ups funding for women-led businesses in UK

The bank pledged an additional £30 million to the “Invest in Women” taskforce, part of efforts to address the equity investment gap for female-founded companies. The Times
This brings its total commitment to £130 million — a major show of support for female entrepreneurs and mixed-gender-led startups. The Times

The IMF’s upgraded growth forecast for China suggests resilience, but the warning about overreliance on exports means global traders and investors should watch Chinese consumption policies closely.
Rising freight costs may increase global supply-chain pressure — something that could affect businesses importing/exporting goods, including in Africa.
High silver prices and wage-cutting trends (layoffs) highlight contrasting pressures: commodity-driven inflation vs. conservative corporate cost-cutting.
Big investments from companies like Amazon — and major support for women-led businesses in developed countries — point to shifting patterns in global investment, digital commerce, and inclusion.