The IMF published its updated World Economic Outlook, downgrading global growth projections from 3.3% to 2.8% in the face of tariff spikes and high levels of policy uncertainty. Titled “A Critical Juncture Amid Policy Shifts”, the report notes that the world economy had been on track to emerge from a challenging period post-COVID, but has been plunged into uncertainty. Growth forecasts have been revised downwards, while global headline inflation is expected to decline at a slightly slower pace than what was expected in January. It warns that scaling back international cooperation could jeopardize progress, and urges countries to “work constructively to promote a stable and predictable trade environment and to facilitate international cooperation, while addressing policy gaps and structural imbalances at home” (Chapter 1). The report also encourages policies that promote healthy aging and enhance labor force participation among older individuals and women (Chapter 2) as well as better integration of migrants and refugees in the economy (Chapter 3). Read more here: https://shorturl.at/wqvrS