On Friday, member countries of the International Monetary Fund expressed concern about growing trade tensions, the development of artificial intelligence, and changes in global markets
The International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), which represents the 191 member economies of the IMF, highlighted the risks in a statement by the Chairman, including low economic growth, high levels of debt, extreme weather events, excessive global imbalances, and ongoing wars.
"Major policy changes in trade and other areas are reshaping global markets and political frameworks, increasing uncertainty," said Mohammed Al-Jadaan, Chairman of the IMF and Minister of Finance of Saudi Arabia.
The statement acknowledges that while these changes, along with digitalization and demographic shifts, present challenges, they also create new opportunities.
IMF officials noted that disinflation trends would vary across countries. Tariff-imposing nations, such as the United States, could face higher inflation for an extended period, while some Asian economies, such as China, risked deflation.
The Committee emphasized the importance of independent central banks in maintaining confidence in policy, stating that central banks remain committed to price stability and will adjust policy based on data in a well-communicated manner.
The statement also calls for addressing financial vulnerabilities by strengthening oversight of systemic risks related to artificial intelligence, non-bank financial institutions, and digital assets, while leveraging the benefits of financial and technological innovations.