In this episode of 'Your Personal Economist,' Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, shares the outlook for 2026 and the forces shaping the global economy.
- Global GDP is set to grow 3.1 percent in 2026, signaling steady momentum in a world that’s constantly shifting.
- US growth is driven by resilient consumers and bold AI investment, even as job switching and wage gains moderate.
- Inflation sticks in select categories, and trade tensions continue to disrupt supply chains.
- Asia powers ahead, driven by India’s continued expansion and development. Growth in the Chinese Mainland should continue to focus on internal sources.
- The economies in Europe face diverging paths, with Spain standing out as a growth leader while Germany should be supported by fiscal expansion.
2026 is set for steady global growth, but varied across economies. Adoption of AI and fiscal policy will be defining features.
Michelle Meyer Chief Economist and Head of the Mastercard Economics Institute
Access previous episodes here:
Episode 11
2025 in review: five moments that shaped the economy
In this episode of Your Personal Economist, Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, looks back at the five moments that defined 2025 and the lessons they offer for the year ahead.
Episode 10
Federal Reserve interest rate changes: what they mean for you
IIn this episode of 'Your Personal Economist,' Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, explains how Federal Reserve rate changes ripple through the economy and shape your financial decisions.