UN cuts 2026 global growth forecast to 2.6% on energy shock, warns of widening divides

The UN now projects global growth of 2.6% in 2026, down from prior estimates, citing an energy shock that is exacerbating economic divergence between advanced and developing economies. Global trade is still seen expanding 4%, but the agency warns that resilience masks widening gaps. The forecast signals a modest downgrade to the global growth path, with energy-driven headwinds concentrated in import-dependent regions.