22nd April 2025

IMF Cuts Global Growth Forecast Amid Trade Tensions

• The International Monetary Fund has reduced its 2025 global GDP growth projection to 2.2%, citing escalating trade tensions and policy fragmentation as key factors undermining investor confidence. 

Japan Voices Concern Over U.S. Tariff Policies

• Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has expressed strong concerns regarding inconsistencies between the 2019 U.S.-Japan trade agreement and the newly imposed 25% tariffs on Japanese automobile imports.

Bank of Japan Maintains Rate-Hike Stance Despite Tariff Risks

• The Bank of Japan is expected to uphold its guidance on potential interest rate hikes, even as uncertainties from U.S. tariffs pose risks to Japan's economic recovery and inflation targets. 

Investors Navigate Market Volatility Amid Tariff Uncertainty

• Global markets continue to experience significant volatility as investors grapple with the unpredictability of U.S. tariff policies, leading to cautious investment strategies and heightened recession fears. 

U.S. and Ukraine Sign Memorandum on Minerals Deal

• The United States and Ukraine have signed a memorandum of intent, marking the first step toward a comprehensive agreement on developing Ukraine's critical mineral resources and establishing a reconstruction investment fund.

News written by Jin-Soo Pak | Published by Zhangir Zhangaskin