Asian Currencies Edge Higher as Markets Look to Fed Rate Cut; Rupee Steadies Near Record Lows 
Spain’s Industrial Output Records Steady Growth in October Amid Revised September Figures 
Citi Sets Bullish 2026 Target for STOXX 600 as Fiscal Support and Monetary Easing Boost Outlook 
China Urged to Prioritize Economy Over Territorial Ambitions, Says Taiwan’s President Lai 
European Stocks Rise as Markets Await Key U.S. Inflation Data 
RBI Cuts Repo Rate to 5.25% as Inflation Cools and Growth Outlook Strengthens 
Austria’s AA Credit Rating Affirmed as Fitch Highlights Stable Outlook 
Dollar Weakens Ahead of Expected Federal Reserve Rate Cut 
Gold Prices Edge Higher as Markets Await Key U.S. PCE Inflation Data 
Holiday Economic Questions: What Bank of America Says You Should Expect 
Asian Markets Mixed as RBI Cuts Rates and BOJ Signals Possible Hike 
Oil Prices Hold Steady as Ukraine Tensions and Fed Cut Expectations Support Market 
IMF Deputy Dan Katz Visits China as Key Economic Review Nears 
Russia Stocks Close Flat as MOEX Hits 1-Month High 
U.S. Stocks End Week Higher as Markets Anticipate Fed Rate Cut 
Europe Confronts Rising Competitive Pressure as China Accelerates Export-Led Growth 
Rising Debt and Economic Challenges
The World Bank has released a concerning report highlighting that the 26 poorest countries, which are home to 40% of the world's most impoverished people, are facing their highest debt levels since 2006. These nations are now more vulnerable to natural disasters and economic shocks, exacerbating their poverty levels.
Economic Decline Amid Global Recovery
Despite the broader world recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, these economies are, on average, poorer than before the crisis. With per-capita incomes below $1,145, they are increasingly dependent on International Development Association (IDA) grants and low-interest loans. The average debt-to-GDP ratio for these countries\ has reached a staggering 72%, marking an 18-year high.
Geopolitical Instability and Investment Challenges
Many of these countries are situated in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia, Chad, and Congo, as well as Afghanistan and Yemen. Approximately two-thirds of these nations are embroiled in conflict or struggle with social instability, deterring foreign investment and trapping them in economic cycles of boom and bust.
The Role of the IDA
World Bank chief economist Indermit Gill emphasized the importance of IDA as a lifeline for these nations amid global neglect. The IDA aims to raise $100 billion by December 6, building on the record $93 billion raised in 2021.
Urgent Need for Investment and Self-Sufficiency
Natural disasters have increasingly impacted these economies, averaging annual losses of 2% of GDP from 2011 to 2023—five times that of lower-middle-income countries. The report urges these nations to enhance tax collection and improve public spending efficiency to foster resilience and sustainability.
