Corporate and Investment
Watch Chief Economist, Goolam Ballim

Sharing his view on the 2026 Economic Outlook

Economy 10 Feb 2026

The Economy in 2026

A World in Flux: Clarity and Opportunity in 2026

The global economy is entering a new era defined not by disorder, but by contested order. Geopolitics has become a structural force shaping capital flows, trade patterns, and business confidence, while artificial intelligence, re-shoring and military rivalry are re-writing the rules of growth. Yet 2025 showed surprising resilience, with easing inflation and lower interest rates restoring momentum. Sub-Saharan Africa’s outlook is quietly constructive, driven by trade and infrastructure investment. South Africa enters 2026 with its strongest macro backdrop in a decade — but political risk remains the binding constraint. The opportunity now lies in execution.

Read the full 2026 Economic Outlook for detailed forecasts and strategy insights below.

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Discover the trends defining growth in 2026.

Our latest economic report breaks down global shifts, Africa’s emerging momentum, and South Africa’s evolving outlook.