Global economic conditions survey: Q1 2018

The first report in 2018 from our joint global survey with IMA shows that economic confidence rebounded strongly in the first quarter of 2018 and is now at its highest level since the series began.

GECS Q1 2018

The high level of confidence reflects the fact that the global economy is performing very strongly, with all major countries and regions in good health, with North America as the most confident region followed closely by Africa.

The increase in confidence in the US comes on the back of massive tax cuts which should help boost consumption, increase wage growth and lead to lower unemployment rates. Since the start of the year, policy-making in the US has taken a more protectionist turn, causing concern about a possible trade war with China.