The September 2024 Chief Economists Outlook explores key trends in the global economy, including the latest outlook for growth, inflation, monetary and fiscal policy, the implications of high public debt levels, and the prospects for a new growth agenda. This series of reports draws on the individual and collective perspectives of a group of leading chief economists through consultations with the World Economic Forum’s Chief Economists Community and a regular Chief Economists Survey.

This latest edition of the Chief Economists Outlook launches amid continuing economic uncertainty. The short-term outlook for the global economy has begun to stabilize, but many vulnerabilities remain. There are reasons for cautious optimism, notably including a continued gradual easing of inflation rates and a shift to looser monetary policy. However, the prolonged sluggish pace of global growth, compounded by heightened political volatility, leaves many countries vulnerable to economic shocks. Current debt dynamics are undermining government efforts to boost growth and leave countries poorly prepared for the next economic downturn. When it comes to the prospects for a new growth agenda, greater political consensus and international collaboration will be essential to balance the quality and quantity of growth.