Chief Economists Warn Global Growth Under Strain from Trade Policy Shocks and AI Disruption

May 28, 2025--A majority of surveyed economists see current US economic policy as having a lasting global impact, with 87% expecting it to delay strategic business decisions and heighten recession risks.
The growth outlook is divided, with weak prospects in North America, resilience in Asia-Pacific and cautious optimism in Europe.

Public debt concerns are mounting as defence spending rises, with 86% of chief economists expecting increased government borrowing.

Artificial intelligence is expected to drive growth, but 47% anticipate net job losses.

The global economic outlook has worsened since the start of the year, as rising economic nationalism and tariff volatility fuel uncertainty and risk stalling long-term decision-making, according to a World Economic Forum report released today.

The latest Chief Economists Outlook reveals that a strong majority (79%) of surveyed economists view the current geoeconomic developments as signs of a significant structural shift for the global economy rather than a temporary disruption.