Week in Review Archive

While many European nations saw meager growth in 2025, Poland’s economy reached $1 trillion, according to the Wall Street Journal, with GDP growing 3.6%. The milestone means Poland enters the top 20 world economies for 2025, sitting right behind Saudi Arabia.

After experiencing an economic slowdown, the highly industrialized country of South Korea has transitioned into a period of economic expansion. In the third quarter of 2025, the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 0.3%, its sharpest contraction since 2020. This downturn was largely the result of U.S.-imposed tariffs and heightened political uncertainty following the impeachment of South Korean President Yoon Seok Yeol.

Mexico’s economy swerved away from a recession at the close of 2025, with rebounding gross domestic product (GDP) in the final quarter due to trade growth and strong industrial and manufacturing sectors pushing the country forward.

Following a year of sustained growth, Japan’s economy is navigating a transitional phase. While economists predict a strengthening economy, Japan is faced with potential interest rate hikes, a shifting political landscape under newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and slight pressure from U.S. tariffs.  

After nearly a decade of stagnation, Germany saw signs of recovery in 2025, with the country’s gross domestic product increasing by 0.2%, according to the Wall Street Journal. While the strong numbers are a good sign for Europe’s largest economy, strong competition with China and massive stimulus funds from Berlin threaten continued growth.

In southwestern Europe, occupying the Iberian Peninsula, stands the country of Spain. Its rich culture, strong traditions and extensive coastline make it a popular place to visit. Included among the top 20 largest economies in the world, and one of the largest in the European Union (EU), Spain is a strong environment for business.

The United States grew at the fastest pace in two years from July to September last year, largely due to strong consumer spending. The nation’s gross domestic product rose at a 4.4% annual pace in the third quarter, according to the AP, up from 3.8% in the second quarter and outpacing initial projections.

Located in Southeast Asia, Indonesia spans the waters between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This archipelagic nation, known for its abundant natural resources and rich biodiversity, ranks as the world’s 17th-largest economy. Even in the face of global economic uncertainty, the country has maintained its strength in business and international commerce.