INSIGHTS The Q4 2024 Economic Experts Survey forecasts a global inflation rate of 3.9 per cent for 2025. With an average expected inflation rate of 3.5 per cent for 2026, expectations globally are 0.4 percentage points (pp) lower compared to expectations for 2025. In the long term up to 2028, inflation expectations are at 3.5 per cent, a slight decrease compared with the previous quarter (3.6 per cent). The global average inflation rate for 2025 is projected to be 3.9 per cent, according to t

INSIGHTS The global cotton sector may face challenges in 2025 as production outpaces demand. Brazil led 2024 exports, shipping a record 2.77 million tons, driven by significant Chinese imports. High stocks and limited demand could pressure prices, though a stronger dollar may aid exports. USDA projects a 3.9 per cent rise in global supply for 2024/25, with consumption up 1.3 per cent. The global cotton sector may face notable challenges in 2025, as production continues to rise faster than d

INSIGHTS China's GDP expanded by 5.4 per cent YoY in Q4 2024, while its value-added industrial output went up by 5.8 per cent YoY in the year, according to official statistics. On a quarterly basis, the Chinese economy increased by 1.6 per cent during the quarter. In December, the country's industrial output grew by 6.2 per cent YoY and by 0.64 per cent month on month. China's gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 5.4 per cent year on year (YoY) in the fourth quarter (Q4) last year, while

INSIGHTS Li Ning Company Limited has been named the official sportswear partner for China's Olympic delegation from 2025 to 2028. After serving in this role from 1992 to 2004, Li Ning reaffirms its commitment to supporting Chinese athletes and promoting sportsmanship. Founder Li Ning expressed honour and dedication to inspiring active lifestyles and fostering Olympic pride. The Shanghai United Assets and Equity Exchange announced that Li Ning Company Limited (“Li Ning” or the "Com

INSIGHTS The USDA's January 2025 WASDE report projects global cotton production rising 1.75 per cent to 119.45 million bales, driven by larger crops in China, Australia, and the US. Consumption increases in Bangladesh and Vietnam offset declines in Türkiye, while exports grow for Brazil, Australia, and India. US production rises to 14.4 million bales, but exports drop to 11 million. Unites States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has increased global cotton production projection by 1.75 p

INSIGHTS ICE cotton futures recovered as stronger crude oil boosted cotton's appeal. Crude oil price rises increased polyester production costs, favouring cotton. However, the rising US dollar capped cotton price growth. The trading volume surged, and ICE deliverable stocks remained unchanged. The ICAC adjusted global cotton production estimates, while USDA delayed its reports. ICE cotton futures recovered from itslows as stronger crude oil increased the appeal of cotton fibre. Expensive crud

INSIGHTS Total global air cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers, rose by 8.2 per cent YoY in November 2024—a sixteenth consecutive month of growth, the International Air Transport Association said. The growth was 9.5 per cent YoY for international operations. Capacity, measured in available CTK, rose by 4.6 per cent YoY in the month; the growth was 6.5 per cent YoY for international operations. Total global air cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 8

INSIGHTS China's consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.2 per cent YoY last year. In December alone, the CPI edged up by 0.1 per cent YoY. On a month-on-month (MoM) basis, the CPI was flat in December, following a 0.6-per cent drop in November. The producer price index fell by 2.2 per cent in 2024—smaller than the 3-per cent drop in 2023; it fell by 2.3 per cent YoY and 0.1 per cent MoM in December. China's consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.2 per cent year on year (YoY) last year, acco

INSIGHTS The J.P. Morgan worldwide PMI survey registered the strongest global economic growth for four months in December. Employment edged higher for the first time in five months in response to rising new orders. Growth disparities widened by region, with the US outperforming other major developed nations, which reported either falling or near-stalled output. India far outpaced major emerging markets. The J.P. Morgan worldwide purchasing managers’ index (PMI) survey registered the str

INSIGHTS ICE cotton recorded its lowest trading volume in two years on Thursday due to shortened post-Christmas trading hours. The March 2025 contract closed at 68.75 cents per pound, down 0.03 cents, with prices in a tight range. Brazil's cotton acreage is forecast to rise 6.5 per cent year-on-year to 2.12 million hectares. NYMEX crude oil prices fell, impacting polyester prices. ICE cotton recorded its lowest trading volume in two years on Thursday due to shortened trading hours and a conso