Questions and answers about
the economy.

New Post

Could tensions between Iran and Israel trigger a new wave of inflation?

The immediate inflationary impact of widening conflict in the Middle East is likely to be limited. But potential trade and supply chain disruptions, weakening business sentiment and elevated uncertainty could have major consequences for the global economy. Governments face tough budgetary choices.

Tickets available now

Nations, regions & cities

How productive is the West of England?

The West of England has a diverse economy, including rural areas, services-based jobs and advanced manufacturing hubs. Investment in infrastructure, skills and research and development (R&D) could help to boost the region’s productivity.

DATA HUB

New milestone in global energy transition

Renewables overtook coal as the world’s leading source of electricity in the first half of 2025, according to new data from Ember.

But coal – still a major driver of global warming – remained the largest single source of power in 2024, generating 10,538 TWh.

How quickly do you think coal’s role will decline? Or will it remain part of the mix for longer than expected?

Click here to read Patrycja Klusak and Matthew Agarwala on meeting climate promises while maintaining fiscal sustainability.

Energy & climate change

Frontline stories: protecting biodiversity

Ahead of COP26, the climate change summit in Glasgow in November 2021, Richard Davies talked to Dr Jane Goodall DBE, one of the world’s leading environmentalists, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a United Nations Messenger of Peace.

Transport & infrastructure

Visitor caps: what potential impact on the world tourism industry?

Caps on the numbers of visitors allowed at certain destinations aim to relieve pressure on hotspots of overtourism. Their introduction presents an opportunity for other places to attract more tourists and students, boost their economies and promote a more sustainable and equitable tourism industry.

Business, big & small

Fast fashion: what are the true costs?

The cost of living crisis has led to an explosion in the fast fashion industry. Buying cheap, low-quality clothes allows people to update their wardrobes regularly at a modest cost. But this comes at the expense of both the environment and the wellbeing of garment workers in developing countries.

Productivity & growth

Boosting agricultural productivity: what lessons from policies in Uganda?

Uganda’s smallholder farmers continue to struggle with low crop yields. The government has tried public subsidies for key inputs in order to boost productivity. But the success of these policies relies on programme design and implementation, as well as the availability of complementary services.

All Answers