Our Scans · (ZY.4.07) Development Studies · Weekly Summary

• [New] The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) expects Euro Area GDP growth of 1.2% in 2025 and 1.0% in 2026. AXA IM UK
• [New] Ultimately, 2026 is more than a symbolic milestone - it is a test of Bangladesh's ability to translate its achievements into sustainable development, inclusive governance, and social well-being. The Financial Express
• [New] The AfCFTA has the potential to transform Africa's economic prospects by boosting intra-African trade, fostering industrial development and integrating Africa into global value chains. Eswatini
• [New] Developing countries require an enhanced provision of means of implementation, including adequate, sustainable and timely resources, through international cooperation and global partnerships for development, and continued international support, to strengthen their efforts to reduce disaster risk. Artemis.bm - The Catastrophe Bond, Insurance Linked Sec
• [New] Agricultural commodity price cycles, global food security concerns, and alternative nitrogen source development could influence long-term ammonia demand patterns that underpin current expansion plans. Discovery Alert
• [New] Although U.S.-induced changes could contribute to a negative global economic outlook, the development of Artificial Intelligence could improve the economic outlook, the WEF writes. Worth
• [New] Jalali stated that Iran has prioritized rapid development over security considerations in recent years, which has exacerbated security vulnerabilities. Critical Threats
• [New] With transport demand set to more than double by 2050, mobility-related choices made in the coming decade can lock in sustainable development pathways. United Nations
• [New] Emerging economies are grappling with an annual shortfall of USD 3.7 trillion in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) finance required to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The Financial Express
• [New] The BRICS economic shift represents a move toward more diversified funding sources, and officials will assess the New Development Bank's role in supporting South Africa economy growth through infrastructure development over the next year through site visits and stakeholder consultations. BRICS
• [New] China's economic development plan for 2026 focuses on sustainable growth, advanced technology, and deepening reform, aiming for around 5% GDP growth, with projections of approximately $20 trillion. Modern Diplomacy
• [New] African Mining Development Coordination: World Bank's Minerals for Climate Action program targets $2.5+ billion in financing for sustainable mining projects across Africa from 2024-2030, partially aligned with MSP ESG standards and governance requirements. Discovery Alert
• [New] Countries like Argentina, Morocco, Chile, and Peru gain access to development finance coordination and technology transfer opportunities in exchange for compliance with environmental and social governance frameworks. Discovery Alert
• [New] The global crypto policy landscape entering 2026 reveals stark differences in regulatory approaches reflecting diverse national priorities, economic development stages, and political constraints. CoinRank
• [New] For investors, 2026 represents a critical window to capitalize on SMR development, driven by urgent capacity gaps, policy tailwinds, and a rapidly evolving energy security imperative. Ainvest
• [New] If development and certification progress as planned, electric flying taxis could become a practical option for airport transfers within the next decade, offering a new mode of sustainable, time-saving travel for London's transport network. Manning & Co
• [New] The Sustainable Development Goals Report 2025 delivers a sobering verdict: only 18% of SDG targets are on track to be achieved by 2030. Culture Policy Room
• [New] By 2030, China aims to turn artificial intelligence into one of the main drivers of economic and social development, relying on increasing computing power, expanding the developer ecosystem and large-scale implementation in key industries. Chelidze Group
• The evolution of Greenland rare earth potential reflects broader themes in global resource security, technological sovereignty, and sustainable development. Discovery Alert
• The year 2025 has proven to be a pivotal period for infrastructure development globally, defined by the convergence of multiple forces including technological disruption, climate imperatives, geopolitical tensions, and evolving economic conditions. MANE
• A UNDP report focused on the Asia-Pacific region warned that rapid AI adoption in wealthier economies could threaten millions of jobs in lower-income countries unless governments invest in skills development, social safety nets, and ethical AI deployment. AI 4 Planet - All about AI

Last updated: 02 January 2026