How fast is the global economy growing, and where might it be headed next?

One of the most widely cited sources to help answer these questions is the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook.

The report harmonizes national data, allowing cross-country comparisons and a global perspective. The IMF also adds its own near-term projections.

In its latest release, the IMF projected global GDP growth of 3.1% in 2026 and 3.2% in 2027 — a downgrade from earlier this year.

The revision falls almost entirely on emerging markets and developing economies. Forecasts for advanced economies are largely unchanged.

Keep in mind that these forecasts are revised at each release, sometimes substantially.

I recently updated our chart with the IMF’s latest release; the next one is expected in October.