Tag: Economy

The United States economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter of 2025, according to the Commerce Department, the first quarter of decline since 2022. The decline in gross domestic product (GDP) is due to a large surge in imports despite other parts of the economy slowing down, all while inflation remains high.

NACM’s seasonally adjusted combined Credit Managers’ Index (CMI) for April 2025 improved 0.7 points to 54.0. “The Credit Managers’ Index improvement currently reflects accelerated business activity ahead of new tariffs,” said NACM Economist Amy Crews Cutts, Ph.D., CBE.

South Korea’s economy is currently facing a period of slower growth, with the first quarter of 2025 experiencing a contraction of 0.1% in gross domestic product (GDP). This downturn is attributed to various factors, including heightened political uncertainty and crippling tariffs.

As challenging economic conditions plague all areas of the market, the agricultural industry appears to be consistently slumping as it endures a multi-year trough, testing the patience of credit managers across the industry.  

Japan’s economy has shown strength and growth so far this year, but the unpredictability of the brewing trade war and the broad-sweeping implications of tariffs from a major trade ally could slow the nation’s growth.

Commercial Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings increased 20% year-over-year in March 2025. “The 20% rise in commercial Chapter 11 filings to 733, up from 611 last year, signals persistent economic pressure, mirrored by a 10% increase in total commercial filings to 2,727,” said Michael Hunter, Vice President of Epiq AACER.

Despite its improvements, Saudi Arabia’s economy still struggles—hindered by oil dependency, high youth unemployment, fiscal sustainability challenges and fluctuating oil revenues. However, itseconomic reform plans, particularly Vision 2030, have improved the quality of life for their citizens and residents by expanding opportunities for growth, fostering greater global integration and enhancing governmental efficiency.

President Trump’s trade war is officially on. However, in an extraordinary reversal just hours after they were set to go into effect, the President delayed the implementation of extremely harsh reciprocal tariffs on over 60 countries. That leaves in place the April 4th 10% across-the-board tariffs but gives the world time to breathe and react.

After years of high inflation debt and trade deficits, Pakistan’s economy is on the road to recovery. This positive trajectory is fueled by improved macroeconomic management, inflation control measures and enhanced fiscal and external accounts stability of their government.