Commodities

Now in its seventh edition, this report explores the top digital shopper trends that will redefine commerce the most in the year ahead. Some of the trends included in this edition touch on topics such as second-hand shopping, community group buying,…

Dependence on the Netherlands for fiscal support is a source of uncertainty for Sint Maarten. Crime rates are high and the country’s sovereign credit has been downgraded. Excessive reliance on tourism caused a severe recession, given the impact of…

Sustainability has become a prominent theme in the 21st century, especially in light of rising urbanisation, which is putting more pressure on infrastructure and quality of life. The report analyses sustainability across seven key areas: water,…

Ageing, urbanisation and migration continue to be major factors shaping the global population. The number of seniors around the world kept expanding in 2021 and is expected to grow further in the years to 2040. The number of small children is…

This report examines inflation levels and drivers globally and in key countries. Global inflation is reaching a peak, although geopolitical risks and uncertainty in the energy market remain key risks. The impact varies between countries, with…

A slowdown in the global economy has become more evident, and growth prospects continue to face multiple headwinds and downside risks. Persistently high inflation, energy and cost-of-living crises, and simultaneous global interest rate rises are…

The Netherlands maintains considerable clout over the affairs of Curacao, which is leading to growing calls for a full split from the European nation. Given that the economy is highly dependent on tourism and oil refining, it has suffered at the…

Political instability has been partly to blame for a deterioration in peacefulness in Guyana, although efforts to tackle corruption are improving. The economy was the best performer globally in 2020, but major oil discoveries also raise the country’s…

French subsidies help to maintain political stability on Guadeloupe, although the islands are prone to civil unrest against socio-economic conditions. Substantial reliance on tourism resulted in recession in 2020, caused by the negative impact of the…

Grenada enjoys political stability, although its state finances have deteriorated as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Tourism accounts for a large share of exports and output, which is likely to lead to economic underperformance…