Absa AgriTrends 2022

Slower global economic growth over the next 12 months or so will likely reduce oil usage. Record high inflation and the rise in the cost of living have depressed consumer confidence, limiting their ability and willingness to spend. In some of the poorest countries, it has also resulted in concerns around food security. Many countries are also taking a more aggressive approach to monetary policy normalisation. Interest rates are rising faster than previously expected. Major central

75 is the new 25 – Policy interest rate hikes in selected countries Table 6.1 banks are increasing policy interest rates by as much as 75 bps at a time (Table 1). Some economies are expected to take more strain than others. Forecasters have become increasingly downbeat on European and UK growth projections as the war in Ukraine drags on.

Aug

Jun

Jul

Sep

75 bps

-

75 bps

75 bps

US

EZ

-

-

50 bps

75 bps

UK

25 bps

50 bps

-

-

In addition, China’s devotion to its zero-Covid policy has dragged on their economy (Figure 6.3). Easing Chinese restrictions were expected to support the global economy, but we’ve seen that they can be reimplemented at any moment. This places downside risks on a widely expected Chinese growth recovery that will support global growth and the demand for oil.

China’s real GDP growth – Real GDP growth in Chain below expectations at the start of 2022

18

13

8

4,80

3

0,40

-2

-7

19q1

19q3

20q1

20q3

21q1

21q3

22q1

Source: BER, 2022

61

Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator