Citi(US:C)2025-06-23 02:09Investment Rating - The report indicates a cautious outlook for global growth, projecting a slowdown to 2.4% in 2025 from 2.8% in 2024, with a modest recovery to 2.5% in 2026 [1][12]. Core Insights - The global economy has shown resilience in early 2025, but signs of strain from tariffs are emerging, particularly in global trade indicators [1][2]. - The front-loading of purchases in anticipation of tariffs has temporarily boosted imports, but this effect is diminishing, leading to a forecasted slowdown in growth across multiple economies [3][22]. - Geopolitical tensions and policy uncertainties, particularly regarding tariffs and fiscal policy, are significant risks to the economic outlook [4][52]. Summary by Sections Global Economic Outlook - The global economy is expected to slow down, with growth projected at 2.4% for 2025, down from 2.8% in 2024, and a slight recovery to 2.5% in 2026 [1][12]. - The resilience observed in the US and global economy over the past few years may be overstated, as tariff impacts are anticipated to become more pronounced [1][62]. Trade Indicators - US imports surged nearly 30% from October to March but fell sharply in April, indicating a potential decline in trade activity [2][22]. - PMIs for new export orders are below 50 for nearly 70% of major economies, signaling contraction in global trade [33]. Inflation and Central Banks - Global headline inflation has returned to 2%, with core inflation remaining above pre-pandemic levels, particularly in services [35][38]. - The Federal Reserve is expected to favor growth, with potential rate cuts later in the year as economic activity weakens [6][43]. Country-Specific Insights - The US economy is projected to grow at 1.6% in 2025, down from 2.8% in 2024, with inflation expected to rise to around 3% by year-end [64]. - Emerging markets are expected to see growth of 3.8% in 2025, with significant variations across countries [64]. Risks to the Outlook - Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, pose risks of rising oil prices, which could negatively impact global growth and inflation [50]. - Uncertainties regarding the future of tariffs and fiscal policy in the US add to the economic risks, with an effective tariff rate expected to settle around 15% [52][60].