Tag: Economy

NACM’s seasonally adjusted combined Credit Managers’ Index (CMI) improved 0.5 points to 54.3. “Favorable factors are driving the gain this month, especially the Dollar Sales factor,” said NACM Economist Amy Crews Cutts, Ph.D., CBE®. “Respondents are indicating optimism on new orders but caution that they are still experiencing slow payments and requests for extended terms.”

Nicaragua’s economy has seen mixed performance in recent years. Following significant growth in 2024, the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth dropped from 3.6% to 3.1% in 2025. This decline was primarily due to slowed remittances, limited investment and global economic deceleration. Despite this slowdown, the economy will expand by 4% this year, supported by sound fiscal and monetary policies and increased remittances, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

With conflict brewing in the Middle East, fluctuating economic policies and a cooling labor market, it is hard for credit professionals to predict where the economy is headed when each day seems to pull it in a different direction.

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.

NACM’s seasonally adjusted combined Credit Managers’ Index (CMI) slid 2.2 points to 52.8.

Over the past few years, Colombia has endured mounting economic challenges. The country’s significant public debt and widened deficit, persistent inflation and weakened currency, have contributed to fiscal instability. Additionally, weak investment and high informal unemployment have hindered Colombia’s economic growth.

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.