Overcoming the middle-income trap: Why institutions matter
Many middle-income countries (MICs) aspire to achieve high-income status, yet only a few succeed. Since 1990, just 34 countries have made this transition. Today, 108 nations
How IFC is mobilizing capital for sustainable urban growth
Urbanization offers tremendous opportunities for job creation and economic growth, which can only be realized if cities invest in the infrastructure needed to support their
Cities that work: How urban tourism drives jobs
When cities invest in tourism, they invest in jobs, entrepreneurship, and growth. Marrakech is a compelling example. In 2024, the city welcomed nearly 4 million tourists, each
Is AI adoption impacting job markets in South Asia?
The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the global economy and reshaping labor markets. What does this mean for the South Asia region?
Mobile phone ownership is widespread. Why is digital inclusion still lagging?
The increasing use of mobile phones is making a range of digital resources more widely available to people across the income spectrum. Eighty-four percent of
Protect to prosper: How nature-based tourism drives jobs and growth
That selfie you took on an idyllic white sand beach, in a sprawling city park, or atop a mountain range at sunset? It’s more than
Oman Investment Authority launches Energy Transition Fund
The presence of Templewater in Muscat will also support knowledge transfer, training opportunities, and capacity building for Omani talent in priority sectors. Oman Investment Authority
Private capital for infrastructure: Resilience amid uncertainty, urgency amid gaps
As the global economy continues to adapt to macroeconomic shifts, infrastructure investment remains a critical driver of job creation, long-term development opportunities and resilience. While recent
Laws, Data, and Empowerment: Insights from UNDP’s Women’s Empowerment Index and World Bank’s Women Business and Law Index
When it comes to improving economic outcomes for women and women’s empowerment, effective action requires reliable data. Yet, data capturing the full scope of women’s
A smarter way to grow rice
“Have you had your rice today?” In Viet Nam, this everyday greeting reflects just how central rice is to life—so essential that the day doesn’t
