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IMF lifts 2026 global growth forecast but flags AI, trade risks

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US President Donald Trump unleashed sweeping tariffs that hit allies and competitors alike, roiling financial markets and supply chains while causing trade tensions to rocket. [AFP]

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) upgraded its 2026 global growth forecast Monday, citing a boost from tech investments but warning that a reevaluation of AI productivity gains or renewed trade tensions could bring disruptions.

World economic growth is projected to hold steady at 3.3 per cent this year, IMF said, raising its forecast by 0.2 percentage points from October. This would be the same pace of growth as in 2025.

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