From Strategic Investment to Tangible Results: Notable examples from the Human Capital Trust Fund
Two-thirds of the income gap between developed and developing countries can be attributed to disparities in human capital. Yet, budgets for critical human capital investments are
Building on connectivity to transform financial inclusion in Arab countries
A new Global Findex Note, “Digital Connectivity and Financial Inclusion in Arab Countries”, reviews the region’s progress on financial inclusion, assesses financial vulnerabilities, and identifies
Electing women does not reduce corruption: Evidence from Brazil
As women gain political ground around the world, there is hope that the election of more women might also mean cleaner government. But is this
Private capital markets and inequality
Private capital markets have expanded rapidly, but access remains concentrated among wealthy investors. This column presents new evidence from the US which shows that high-net-worth
When travel restrictions became trade frictions: Evidence from Covid-era border closures
Covid travel restrictions limited movement of people but also made cross-border goods trade more difficult. This column uses a structural gravity model on global trade
UAE VAT and excise tax collection jumps 15% in 2025 to $12.53bln
The growth in tax revenues underscores the strength of the UAE’s fiscal approach and its ability to sustain stable government resources: official. The UAE Ministry
When risks stack up: Threats to global food markets in 2026
Global food commodity markets entered 2026 on a relatively stable footing, supported by ample grain and edible oil supplies. However, escalating conflict in the Middle
Closing the skills gap: why industry must help lead the way
The global economy is changing at extraordinary speed, and education and training systems are struggling to keep up. Artificial intelligence is transforming jobs almost overnight.
Why some digital payment systems replace cash and others don’t
Digital payment systems promise to extend financial services to people underserved by banks, and overcoming barriers to the adoption of such systems is thus central
Market-implied inflation expectations during the Iran shock
Real-time assessments of inflation expectations can be valuable for assessing the inflation outlook. This column decomposes inflation swaps for the US, UK, and euro area
