28/12/2025
Economy and Resources
* Global Economy: QNB reported that the global growth recovery in 2025 reflects major economies' resilience to shocks, with the year's end growth forecasts generally positive despite high uncertainty.
* Precious Metals: After a "stellar 2025," gold and silver prices are expected to moderate in 2026, with their value largely hinging on ongoing geopolitics and central bank policies.
* Critical Minerals: Chile approved a partnership between its state-owned mining company Codelco and private firm SQM (which features Chinese capital) to exploit lithium resources. Canada also established a "critical minerals sovereign fund" as part of a trend of state intervention in strategic supply chains.
* Energy and Climate: Global energy demand is projected to rise 15% by 2050, requiring over $85 trillion in investment. The US has stepped back from federal climate commitments, while other nations like Japan, China, Canada, and Europe continue to implement policies that link decarbonization with economic competitiveness.