Economics & Country Risk | An S&P Global Market Intelligence Podcast

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  • 45 minutes 21 seconds
    Top 10 Insights Shaping the 2026 Economic Outlook

    In our final episode of 2025, host Kristen Hallam is joined by S&P Global Market Intelligence economists Ken Wattret, Ben Herzon, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, and Thea Fourie to unveil the top 10 economic insights shaping the outlook for 2026.

    Discover how moderating inflation, shifting fiscal policies, and global trade dynamics are creating a delicate balance of tailwinds and headwinds across major economies. From the US avoiding recession and Western Europe's subdued growth, to China's pivot to domestic demand and India's resilience amid tariffs, this episode delivers actionable perspectives on emerging trends, risks, and opportunities.

    Understand the potential impact of artificial intelligence, evolving monetary policies, currency shifts, and the state of sovereign debt—essential listening for anyone navigating the year ahead.

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    13 December 2025, 10:00 am
  • 22 minutes 3 seconds
    It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like... the Economic Outlook for US Consumer Spending

    In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam dives into the intricacies of U.S. consumer spending as the holiday season approaches. Joined by Michael Zdinak, Ph.D., a director in S&P Global's U.S. economics team, Kristen explores the current economic landscape following a recent government shutdown and its impact on vital economic data.

    Kristen and Michael discuss the resilience of consumer spending—despite low consumer sentiment—highlighting the factors driving spending behaviors among different income groups. They analyze retail sales trends, the significance of Black Friday, and the growing share of online shopping in holiday sales.

    Listeners will gain insights into inflation's effects on purchasing power and the expected growth in holiday sales, alongside a nuanced understanding of how consumers are navigating their financial realities this season. Tune in for a comprehensive overview of the U.S. economy as we head into the holidays.

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    Credits:

    • Host: Kristen Hallam
    • Guest: Michael Zdinak
    • Produced By: Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    6 December 2025, 10:00 am
  • 33 minutes 58 seconds
    Optimism and Uncertainty: The 2026 US Economic Outlook

    In this episode of the Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam engages with economists from S&P Global Market Intelligence to unpack the U.S. economic outlook for 2026. The discussion explores key themes influencing growth, including the economic impact of artificial intelligence, evolving labor market dynamics, and the ongoing effects of tariffs on inflation and investment.

    Listeners will gain insights into the team's optimistic projections for 2026, driven by reduced policy uncertainty and consumer spending bolstered by recent tax cuts. The economists also address potential headwinds to growth, such as high borrowing costs and the implications of a government shutdown on economic performance.

    As the Federal Reserve navigates these challenges, the discussion explores monetary policy decisions, including expectations for rate cuts and the anticipated adjustments in response to inflationary pressures.

    With expert analysis and forward-looking perspectives, this episode equips listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions in a complex economic landscape.

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    Credits:

    • Host: Kristen Hallam
    • Guests: Ben Herzon, Patrick Newport, Michael Zdinak, Lawrence Nelson
    • Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    29 November 2025, 10:00 am
  • 36 minutes 36 seconds
    The Age of Agility: Key Themes for 2026

    If 2025 was a year of seismic shifts, 2026 will be a year of recalibration to both the aftershocks and the new disruptions we expect to trade patterns, the economy and the geopolitical landscape.

    In this episode of the Decisive podcast, we set out our key strategic themes for 2026—adapting to trade realities, shaky economic foundations and shifting asymmetric power in geopolitics. Experts from our multidisciplinary research team unpack the ongoing economic uncertainties, evolving trade policies, and geopolitical dynamics we expect to characterize the year ahead.

    Listeners will gain an understanding of the potential impacts of the US midterm elections, the renegotiation of trade agreements, and the strategic competition between major powers, particularly the US and mainland China. The panel highlights the significance of critical minerals and AI technology as national security assets, alongside the challenges posed by financial market volatility and supply chain resilience.

    As the world faces a recalibration of trade relationships and economic strategies, this episode provides valuable insights for navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing world. Tune in to stay informed and empowered in your decision-making process.

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    22 November 2025, 10:00 am
  • 19 minutes 1 second
    PMI in Focus: Global Business Outlook and AI Sentiment

    Host Paul Smith is joined by senior economists Pollyanna de Lima and Andrew Harker to explore the latest trends in Purchasing Managers' Indices (PMI) and their implications for the global economy.

    They discuss the resilience of global economic growth in 2025 in the face of challenges such as low business confidence, tariffs, and trade uncertainties. The team analyzes the mixed performance across Latin America, with notable expansions in Colombia contrasted by contractions in Brazil and Mexico.

    As they shift focus to the future, they explore the findings of the recent Global Business Outlook surveys, highlighting subdued plans for employment and investment amidst geopolitical uncertainties.

    The conversation also touches on the rising investment in artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors, examining how firms are leveraging AI for efficiency, recruitment, and customer acquisition while facing challenges like implementation difficulties and accuracy concerns.

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    15 November 2025, 10:00 am
  • 37 minutes 5 seconds
    Frequently Asked Questions About the Global Economy

    In this episode, our experts answer your most frequently asked questions about the global economy, analyzing key trends as we approach 2026.

    Host Ken Wattret, vice president of global economics at S&P Global Market Intelligence, leads a panel representing the US, Europe, Asia-Pacific and Latin America to provide a glimpse into our expectations for the rest of 2025 and beyond.

    From the optimistic outlook for U.S. GDP growth, driven by recent tax cuts and government spending, to the challenges posed by high inflation and tariffs, we unpack the factors shaping the economic landscape. The global economy FAQ discussion also explores the impact of artificial intelligence on productivity and GDP, as well as the economic resilience of the Asia-Pacific region amidst slowing exports.

    We take a closer look at the fiscal situations in France and the UK, highlighting the difficulties of achieving sustainable public finances, and examine the mixed growth prospects in India following new U.S. tariffs. The episode wraps up with insights on the evolving dynamics of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement and the implications of Brazil's upcoming elections on fiscal targets.

    Tune in for a comprehensive analysis that empowers confident decision-making in an era of uncertainty.

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    8 November 2025, 10:00 am
  • 30 minutes 1 second
    Charting a New Course for Asia's Shipbuilding Powerhouses

    The shipping industry has faced a seismic shift following the U.S. Trade Representative's finalization of port fees targeting Chinese-built, operated and owned vessels. Such changes in trade and tariff policy are reshaping order books for bulk carriers and specialized cargo vessels and the competitive landscape of Asian shipbuilding.

    Ongoing physical disruptions are affecting global shipping routes, and shipowners are balancing the urgent need for fleet renewal with the long-term imperative of adhering to tightening environmental regulations.

    To unpack these developments, host Kristen Hallam is joined by Ashima Tyagi and Keyla Goodno from S&P Global Market Intelligence. Listen now for an insightful analysis of the future of shipbuilding and the broader implications for global supply chains.

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    Credits:

    • Host: Kristen Hallam
    • Guests: Ashima Tyagi, Keyla Goodno
    • Produced By: Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Feranmi Adeoshun
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    1 November 2025, 9:00 am
  • 19 minutes 27 seconds
    Reshoring Potential: Indonesia and Malaysia in Global Supply Chains

    As we approach the end of 2025, companies are starting to move beyond calculating tariff rates and to think develop long-term strategies for their supply chains. Reshoring — moving some or all of your sourcing from one region or territory to another — has reemerged as a strategic option.

    S&P Global Market Intelligence Head of Supply Chain Research Chris Rogers joins host Kristen Hallam to discuss reshoring, focusing on two key Southeast Asian markets: Indonesia and Malaysia. They explore the current global supply chain positions of both countries, highlighting Indonesia's resource-driven economy and Malaysia's established dominance in electronics manufacturing.

    Chris outlines the potential for Indonesia to emerge as a reshoring center, emphasizing its political stability, low labor costs, and growing domestic market. He also addresses the challenges Indonesia faces, such as workforce education and wage inflation pressures. Conversely, Malaysia's historical success in electronics is examined, along with the need for the country to defend its position against rising competition from lower-cost neighbors.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights into the strategic considerations for businesses looking to reshore operations, the impact of global trade policies, and the future trends that may shape the supply chains of both Indonesia and Malaysia over the next five years. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis that goes beyond tariffs and U.S. policy to uncover the broader opportunities in global trade.

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    Credits:

    • Host: Kristen Hallam
    • Guest: Chris Rogers
    • Produced By: Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    25 October 2025, 9:00 am
  • 32 minutes 7 seconds
    Mapping Political Volatility: Elections, Unrest and Instability in Key Regions

    In this episode of the Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam leads a compelling discussion on the rising political volatility across various regions, including Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America. Joined by experts Carla Selman, Bibianna Norek, and Jeffery McElroy, the panel explores the factors driving instability in countries like Japan, Peru, Argentina, France, and the UK.

    Listeners will gain insights into the implications of recent leadership changes, the impact of civil unrest, and the role of immigration policies in shaping political landscapes. The experts also discuss the upcoming elections in Latin America and their potential to influence political dynamics, as well as the delicate balance countries must maintain between their relationships with the US and mainland China.

    With a focus on key indicators of political stability, the episode provides a comprehensive analysis of how domestic and global pressures are reshaping governance and policy-making.

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    Credits:

    • Hosts: Kristen Hallam
    • Guests: Carla Selman, Bibianna Norek, Jeffery McElroy
    • Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    18 October 2025, 9:00 am
  • 24 minutes 3 seconds
    Forecasting the US Economy in Uncertain Times

    In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam engages in an insightful discussion with Ben Herzon, co-head of US Economics at S&P Global Market Intelligence. They explore the complexities of economic forecasting in turbulent times, focusing on how to differentiate between signal and noise in economic data. Ben shares his expertise on the significance of the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) as a leading indicator for economic trends, particularly its role in predicting industrial production and GDP.

    The conversation also explores the impact of tariffs on inflation and economic growth, highlighting the resilience of the US economy amid recent challenges. Ben discusses the factors contributing to the growth outlook, including recent budget legislation, federal spending, and inventory management by businesses.

    Additionally, they address the risks to economic growth, such as potential increases in tariffs, inflation surprises, and the implications of a government shutdown. The episode concludes with a look at how scenario analysis is used to navigate uncertainties in economic forecasting, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current economic landscape.

    Tune in for a deep dive into the dynamics shaping the US economy and the tools used to forecast its future.

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    Credits:

    • Host: Kristen Hallam
    • Guest: Ben Herzon
    • Produced By: Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    11 October 2025, 9:00 am
  • 41 minutes 2 seconds
    New Pathways to Economic Growth in Emerging Markets

    In this insightful episode of The Decisive, host Kristen Hallam leads a comprehensive discussion on the current landscape of emerging markets, exploring the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as we approach 2026. Joined by a panel of experts from S&P Global Market Intelligence, the conversation probes the economic resilience of developed versus emerging markets, the impact of trade dynamics and tariffs, and the role of technological advancements in shaping growth trajectories.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights from this episode, which is taken from our Sept. 10 client webinar. Learn about the performance of key emerging economies, including India, as well as the implications of geopolitical shifts on global supply chains. The panel, featuring Thea Fourie, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, and Shuchita Shukla, also highlights investment opportunities in sectors such as digital infrastructure, green energy, and critical minerals, while addressing the effects of U.S. tariffs and regional reshoring strategies.

    As the episode unfolds, the experts discuss the importance of innovation and technology adoption, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, and examine how emerging markets can leverage these trends for sustainable growth. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of the evolving economic landscape and what it means for businesses and investors in the coming years.

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    Credits:

    • Hosts: Kristen Hallam
    • Guests: Thea Fourie, Hanna Luchnikava-Schorsch, Shuchita Shukla
    • Produced By: Debbie Taylor, Kristen Hallam
    • Edited By: Marz Marcello
    • Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun
    4 October 2025, 9:00 am
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