Concerns about geopolitical risks and further fragmentation of the global economy are leading to policy uncertainty and a weakening of business and consumer sentiment. In the Spring Statement the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer announced welfare reforms and civil service cost cuts, alongside an increase in defence spending. Businesses and households are facing increasing bills … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 3 April 2025”
Tag: West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 30 January 2025
In the first 2025 edition of the West Midland’s Impact Monitor, President Trump re-entered the White House as the 47th President of the USA in January 2025. The Trump presidency is expected to foster a more protectionist trade environment. Renewed trade hostilities could disrupt global commerce, create supply chain bottlenecks and most likely increase costs … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 30 January 2025”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 26 January 2024
A slow Christmas for retailers hints at the continuing issues with sluggish growth seen globally, with forecasts struggling to revise upwards. A continuing bumpy ride for China is having global ramifications. Food prices are rising, as are those goods most affected by Brexit. Future prospects for the West Midlands seem mixed. Growth outlook The World … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 26 January 2024”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 15 December 2023
As 2023 draws to a close, the challenges of inflation (although falling) and low growth remain. The cost of living, the NHS and the economy are key concerns for the general public. However, businesses in the West Midlands are still optimistic as indicated by the Future Business Activity Index. Global, national and regional outlook The … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 15 December 2023”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor- 17 November 2023
This month continues to be turbulent. Conflict in the Middle East, unstable UK politics and continued stagnation of the economy. Whilst the economy is showing some resilience, prospects for growth remain low and rising global tensions are increasing worries of global shocks to already sensitive energy markets. The baseline forecast is for global growth to … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor- 17 November 2023”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 12 October 2023
In a week marked by escalating unrest in the Middle East, global leaders face critical decisions, raising concerns about the world economy. Amid rising international tensions, the global economy has shown unexpected resilience in early 2023, but growth prospects remain low. Although headline inflation is decreasing, core inflation persists due to the services sector and … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 12 October 2023”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 13 September 2023
This month there is another natural disaster; rescue efforts are ongoing after a powerful earthquake struck central Morocco on Friday night just after 11pm. The death toll has soared to more than 2,000, with a similar number of injured. Inflation continues to be an issue globally post-pandemic. Heatwaves, fires and floods are hitting key supply … Continue reading “West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 13 September 2023”
West Midlands Impact Monitor – 28th October 2022
Rishi Sunak is now UK Prime Minister. Concerns about inflation remain paramount for businesses, households and individuals. Russia has continued its targeted attack on Ukrainian energy supplies since last Monday, with an estimated 1.5m households now without electricity. Almost a third of Ukraine’s power stations and other energy-generating facilities having been destroyed in the attacks … Continue reading “West Midlands Impact Monitor – 28th October 2022”
West Midlands Impact Monitor – 14th October 2022
An interesting fact: marmalade has seen a rapid rise in sales surging by 18%, as the nation paid its respects to the Queen. Sales of supermarket own brands continue to surge in an effort to battle the cost-of living crisis. Sales of wonky fruit and vegetables have soared 38% and Lidl is the fastest growing … Continue reading “West Midlands Impact Monitor – 14th October 2022”
West Midlands Economic Impact Monitor – 30th September 2022
This week has seen an escalation of tensions in Ukraine as Russia mobilises reservists. In the UK, the domestic economic news has been dominated by the announcement of, and fall out from, a ‘mini budget’.