The year 2026 is unlikely to be an easy one for the global economy, but there’s no real reason for outright pessimism either. The outlook is mixed: new opportunities are emerging alongside serious challenges.

According to a report by the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB), the world economy will continue to grow, though at a calmer and more moderate pace than in previous years.

Looking at the numbers, the U.S. economy is expected to expand by around 1.6%, while the Eurozone may see growth of about 1%. These modest figures are not accidental. Rising trade barriers, higher tariffs, and the need to adapt to new global rules are slowing down advanced economies. Put simply, global trade is no longer breathing as freely as it once did.

Against this backdrop, China remains firmly at the center of the global stage. Forecast growth of 4.6% positions it as the main engine of global development. A rebound in domestic consumption, large-scale investments in technology, and strong momentum in green energy projects continue to reinforce China’s economic strength. Thanks to these factors, the country is not only maintaining its leadership in global markets but actively strengthening it.

The Economist takes an even broader view. In its assessment, 2026 is more than just another phase in the economic cycle—it could be a turning point where the system itself is reshaped. Shifting centers of power, the energy transition, and the rapid advance of digital technologies are set to transform the global economic order.

For Europe, the period ahead looks particularly challenging. Rising defense spending, the need to preserve a strategic partnership with the United States, and tight control over budget deficits dominate the agenda. While these factors may limit short-term growth, they are widely seen as necessary steps toward long-term stability.

Overall, 2026 is expected to bring slow but relatively stable global economic growth. The United States and the Eurozone will move forward cautiously, while China will remain the primary driving force. The energy transition, digital transformation, and a shifting geopolitical balance will define the key themes shaping the global economic landscape.