International Markets Archive

Chile elected conservative José Antonio Kast as president on Dec. 15, as voter priorities shift from inequity and improved pensions to addressing crime, immigration and strengthening a sluggish economy.

In south-central Asia stands the mountainous country of Afghanistan, known for its rugged terrain, rich cultural heritage and historic trade routes. The largely traditional and agriculture-based economy is dependent on farming, livestock and small trade. Although the region has significant natural resources, economic activity remains informal and rural, with limited industrial development.

As Saudi Arabia approves its state budget for 2026, the country anticipates a narrowing fiscal deficit as they prioritize industrial and logistics sectors in an effort to increase non-oil-based revenue. The country is projecting a deficit of 165 billion riyals ($44 billion), about 3.3% of gross domestic product (GDP).

Ecuador is regarded to have a strong economy heavily reliant on oil and agricultural exports. However, it is vulnerable to external macroeconomic events. Although Ecuador has made structural and institutional improvements over the years, its’ fiscal imbalances, such as a high reliance on volatile oil revenues, vulnerable financial sector, thin domestic capital market, labor market rigidities and informality has stunted its’ economic growth.

The nation of Israel is recognized as one of the most advanced economies in the world—a top exporter of oil, diamonds and other precious gems, machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, plastics, aircraft and chemicals.

United Arab Emirates’s economy is anticipated to grow by 4.9% in 2025, 0.4% more than initial forecasts predicted, with increased oil production and growth in non-hydrocarbon sector fueling growth.

Earlier this year, Brazil’s economy faced mounting challenges, rising inflation, higher interest rates and a devaluation of currency, all of which threatened to slow gross domestic product (GDP) growth. Despite these headwinds, Brazil’s economy was projected to moderate in 2025, with a forecasted 2.2% growth in GDP, Reuters reports. 

Australia’s economy grew by 0.6% in the second quarter of 2025, showing slight growth that is still better than anticipated. Year-over-year the economy grew by 1.8% in the second quarter, according to the Wall Street Journal, beating out the forecasted 1.6%.