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The Ukraine War’s economic consequences for developing countries

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Developing countries in general, and especially those which are net importers of oil are in a real fix as to how to manage macroeconomic challenges like high inflation, balance of payments concerns, and debt sustainability, on one hand, and on the other make needed development expenditures, especially in the health  sector, along with providing enough stimulus, and subsidy to support people in the lower income echelons, which are many and most likely quite rapidly rising in numbers over the pandemic.- Advertisement –

War in Ukraine has made all this all the more difficult, and as Jayati Ghosh rightly pointed, requires a significant amount of support from both rich, advanced countries, and multilateral institutions. Yet this support in any significant way, has remained mostly eluded over the many months during the pandemic. On top of that, oil prices which took a nose-dive and settled to around $20 a barrel in around the later part of April 2020, saw a fast-paced rise in the later part of the same year, due to demand improvement, but sadly also significantly at the back of artificially reduced supply.

Resultantly, oil prices had already risen to above $90 a barrel before the war began, and have now seen reaching around $130 a barrel. Imagine the precarious situation in which developing countries find themselves. For how long they can manage pressures on fiscal balance on account of providing subsidies, and on the balance of payments on account of higher import costs?

Pakistan imported around 80-90 percent of its total wheat imports from Russia and Ukraine in 2020, and therefore a war has meant that the country is likely to face longer timelines, and higher prices with regard to wheat that needs to be imported.

And cutting development expenditures would mean a negative impact on growth recovery, and overall fall into stagflationary consequences. The war will likely exacerbate these pressures on macroeconomic accounts, with consequences of such rise in commodity prices already producing ripples in the political domains of developing countries in general; a repeat of similar consequences seen as the commodity prices increased as an outcome of the Global Financial Crisis of late 2000s.

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Criticising this rather self-centred approach by OPEC+ group of countries, a recent Financial Times (FT) quoted the head of International Energy Agency (IEA) in an article ‘IEA ready to release more oil to ease soaring energy prices, says chief’ recently as follows: ‘The head of the International Energy Agency said the group’s members were ready to release more oil from emergency stockpiles to ease soaring energy prices, as he criticised Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for refusing to pump more crude.

Fatih Birol said the co-ordinated release last week by the US and other big energy-consuming nations of 60mn barrels was an “initial response” and that the IEA was ready to do “everything” to reduce the volatility in energy markets driven by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.’

A global commodity supply shock had already sky-rocketed food prices, and the war will only add to it, for instance in terms of essential natured commodities like wheat and fertilizer. The same article by Jayati Ghosh pointed out in this regard ‘Before the war, Ukraine was the world’s fifth-largest wheat exporter, and also a major exporter of barley, corn, rapeseed, and sunflower oil.

The prices of these commodities in global trade have risen significantly, adding to recent increases in crop prices generally. …Crop production in developing countries could also be hit by fertilizer shortages. Russia, the world’s largest wheat exporter, is also a major fertilizer producer, and disruptions to these exports will push global food prices even higher.’

Highlighting the rising level of commodity prices, a March 3 FT published article ‘Commodity prices soar to highest level since 2008 over Russia supply fear’ indicated ‘The S&P GSCI index, a broad barometer for the price of global raw materials, has jumped 16 per cent this week, leaving it on track for the sharpest rise on records dating back to 1970, according to Refinitiv data.

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It is now at its highest level since 2008. US oil prices also hit the highest level since 2008 on Thursday. Wheat futures in Chicago shot above $12 a bushel. Other commodities including aluminium and coal have also soared this week, in a move that will have profound effects on global businesses and consumers.’- Advertisement –

Similarly, another FT article ‘Food crisis looms as Ukrainian wheat shipments grind to halt’ pointed out with regard to rising food prices that ‘Russia and Ukraine supply almost a third of the world’s wheat exports and since the Russian assault on its neighbour, ports on the Black Sea have come to a virtual standstill.

As a result, wheat prices have soared to record highs, overtaking levels seen during the food crisis of 2007-08. …The surge in prices will fuel soaring food inflation – already at a seven-year high of 7.8 per cent in January – and the biggest impact will be on the food security of poorer grain importers, warned analysts and food aid organisations.

’ As per the same article, Pakistan imported around 80-90 percent of its total wheat imports from Russia and Ukraine in 2020, and therefore a war has meant that the country is likely to face longer timelines, and higher prices with regard to wheat that needs to be imported.

Courtesy : PT

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China

Decoding China’s Consumer Price Rebound Amid Deflation Risks: Insights & Analysis

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Introduction

China’s consumer prices have shown signs of rebounding, thanks to a holiday boom. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) grew by 0.7% year on year in February, surpassing expectations and marking the first rise after six consecutive months of decline. However, amidst this positive development, there are looming concerns about deflation risks as factory gate prices continue to fall for the 17th consecutive month. This article delves into the intricacies of China’s current economic landscape, analyzing the factors contributing to the CPI growth and exploring the implications of persistent deflation risks.

1: Understanding China’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) Growth
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) serves as a key indicator of inflation and reflects changes in the prices paid by consumers for goods and services. The recent 0.7% year-on-year growth in China’s CPI in February has sparked optimism among economists and policymakers. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including increased consumer spending during holidays, rising demand for certain goods and services, and government stimulus measures aimed at boosting consumption.

2: Implications of CPI Growth on China’s Economy
The rebound in consumer prices has significant implications for China’s economy. A positive CPI growth indicates a healthier level of inflation, which can stimulate economic activity by encouraging spending and investment. It also reflects improved consumer confidence and overall economic stability. However, it is essential to monitor the sustainability of this growth and its impact on other economic indicators.

3: Analyzing Deflation Risks in China’s Economy
Despite the encouraging CPI growth, there are concerns about deflation risks looming over China’s economy. The continuous decline in factory gate prices for the 17th consecutive month is seen as a warning signal by analysts. Deflation can have detrimental effects on an economy, leading to reduced consumer spending, lower corporate profits, and potential economic stagnation. Policymakers must address these deflation risks proactively to prevent long-term negative consequences.

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4: Factors Contributing to Deflation Risks
Several factors contribute to the deflation risks faced by China’s economy. Overcapacity in certain industries, weak global demand, trade tensions, and technological advancements leading to cost reductions are some of the key factors driving down factory gate prices. Addressing these underlying issues requires a comprehensive approach that involves structural reforms, targeted stimulus measures, and strategic policy interventions.

5: Strategies to Mitigate Deflation Risks
To mitigate deflation risks and sustain economic growth, policymakers in China need to implement effective strategies. These may include promoting domestic consumption through incentives and subsidies, fostering innovation and technological advancement to enhance competitiveness, addressing overcapacity through industry restructuring, and maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment through prudent monetary and fiscal policies.

Conclusion
China’s consumer price rebound offers a glimmer of hope amidst challenging economic conditions. While the CPI growth signals positive momentum in the short term, it is essential to address the underlying deflation risks to ensure long-term economic stability and growth. By understanding the factors contributing to CPI growth and deflation risks, policymakers can formulate targeted strategies to navigate these challenges effectively. Monitoring economic indicators closely and implementing proactive measures will be crucial in safeguarding China’s economy against potential downturns.

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Economy

Unveiling the Potential: Lake Street Analyst Raises Price Target on Crexendo to $7

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Introduction

In the dynamic world of stock markets, analysts play a crucial role in guiding investors with their insights and recommendations. Recently, Lake Street analyst Eric Martinuzzi made waves by raising the price target on Crexendo (NASDAQ: CXDO) to $7 from $5.50, reaffirming a Buy rating and showcasing his bullish outlook on the company’s prospects. This move not only reflects Martinuzzi’s confidence in Crexendo but also sheds light on the underlying factors driving this optimistic stance.

1: The Analyst’s Perspective
Eric Martinuzzi, a seasoned analyst at Lake Street, has demonstrated his faith in Crexendo’s growth potential by revising the price target upwards. His Buy rating underscores a positive outlook on the company’s trajectory, indicating a belief in its ability to thrive in the competitive market landscape. By delving into Martinuzzi’s rationale behind this decision, investors can gain valuable insights into what sets Crexendo apart and why it is poised for success.

2: Unpacking Crexendo’s Market Position
Crexendo, a technology company specializing in cloud communications solutions, has been making strides in expanding its market presence and enhancing its offerings. With a focus on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Crexendo has positioned itself as a key player in the industry. The heightened price target from Lake Street signals a strong conviction in Crexendo’s capabilities to further solidify its market position and drive growth.

3: Factors Driving Optimism
Several factors contribute to the positive sentiment surrounding Crexendo and justify the increased price target set by Lake Street analyst Eric Martinuzzi. These may include strong financial performance, innovative product offerings, strategic partnerships, market trends favoring cloud communications solutions, and overall industry outlook. By examining these factors in detail, investors can better understand why Crexendo is garnering attention and what potential opportunities lie ahead.

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4: Implications for Investors
For investors looking to capitalize on the bullish outlook for Crexendo, understanding the implications of the revised price target is crucial. It signifies not just a numerical increase but also a vote of confidence in the company’s ability to deliver value and generate returns for shareholders. By aligning investment strategies with this optimistic outlook, investors can position themselves strategically to benefit from Crexendo’s growth trajectory.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Lake Street analyst Eric Martinuzzi’s decision to raise the price target on Crexendo to $7 reflects a positive assessment of the company’s prospects and underscores its growth potential. By exploring the analyst’s perspective, unpacking Crexendo’s market position, analyzing the factors driving optimism, and considering the implications for investors, stakeholders can gain valuable insights into why Crexendo is an intriguing investment opportunity worth considering.

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Economy

The Economic Consequences of Elections: A Perspective from Nedbank

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Introduction

Elections are an integral part of any democratic society, providing citizens with the opportunity to choose their leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. However, the focus on elections can often divert attention from other pressing issues, such as fixing the economy.

In a recent statement, the Nedbank chief, Mike Brown, expressed concern that the upcoming elections could take the focus off fixing the economy, which is a cause for concern for many South Africans. In this article, we will delve deeper into the economic consequences of elections and the implications for South Africa.

The Economic Consequences of Elections
Elections can have significant economic consequences, both in the short and long term. In the short term, elections can lead to increased uncertainty, as investors and businesses may hold back on making decisions until the outcome is clear. This uncertainty can lead to a decrease in investment, which can negatively impact economic growth.

In the long term, elections can lead to policy changes that can have significant economic consequences. For example, if a new government comes into power with a different economic policy, this can lead to changes in regulations, taxes, and other economic factors that can impact businesses and investors. This can lead to a decrease in confidence in the economy, which can further impact investment and economic growth.

Nedbank’s Perspective
Nedbank, one of South Africa’s largest banks, has expressed concern that the upcoming elections could take the focus off fixing the economy. Mike Brown, the Nedbank chief, has stated that “the focus on the election could distract from the need to address the structural issues that are holding back the economy.” This is a concern shared by many South Africans, who are worried about the country’s economic future.

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Structural Issues in the South African Economy
South Africa’s economy has been struggling for some time, with high levels of unemployment, low economic growth, and a large budget deficit. These structural issues are complex and require significant attention and effort to address. However, the focus on elections can divert attention from these issues, making it difficult to make progress in fixing the economy.

Conclusion
Elections are an important part of any democratic society, but they can also have significant economic consequences. The focus on elections can divert attention from other pressing issues, such as fixing the economy. As the Nedbank chief has pointed out, this can seriously affect South Africa’s economic future. Attention must be given to these structural issues, regardless of the outcome of the elections. Only then can South Africa hope to achieve sustainable economic growth and development.

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