Recent positive indicators hint at a global economic upturn, with the OECD forecasting 3.2% growth for 2024 and 2025. However, political challenges, geopolitical instability, and high debt levels pose significant risks.

Vietnam aims for ambitious economic growth, targeting 7% in 2024 and 7.0%-7.5% in 2025, with a focus on infrastructure and foreign investment, said Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. However, recovery from Super Typhoon Yagi and inflation concerns pose significant challenges.

The Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model forecasts a robust 3.2% annual GDP growth rate for Q3 2024, reflecting ongoing economic strength. This growth, coupled with a 3% rise in labor productivity and substantial AI investments, underscores the US's resilience and innovation prowess.

Paul Krugman warns that a Trump victory in the 2024 election could severely disrupt the US economy and global order, with radical policies like high tariffs and mass deportations. He credits the Biden administration for the current economic resilience but urges caution due to potential unseen threats.

Taiwan's export orders surged 4.6% year-on-year in September to $53.79 billion, driven by strong demand for AI devices and semiconductors. This marks the seventh consecutive month of growth, although orders from China declined by 3.6%.

Singapore's economy, with a GDP of US$525.228 billion, is set for steady growth, buoyed by effective policies and a skilled workforce. The Ministry of Trade and Industry forecasts a 2.4% GDP growth for 2024, with the GDP expected to reach US$626.28 billion by 2028.

HDFC Bank reported a 6.03% rise in net profit to Rs 17,825.91 crore for Q2 2024, driven by a 10% increase in net interest income and stable net interest margins. The bank also saw a 27.24% surge in pre-provision operating profit and a slight increase in its capital adequacy ratio to 19.8%, boosting its stock by 0.47%.

Portugal's productivity woes, contributing only 0.6% to GDP growth from 2010-2022, could turn around with McKinsey's projection of a 3.1% rise by 2030 through generative AI and automation. Achieving this requires retraining 1.3 million workers and transitioning 320,000 in customer service and administrative roles, necessitating strong collaboration between public, private sectors, and education systems.

Malaysia's economy grew by 5.3% in Q3 2023, although this is a slowdown from the 5.9% expansion in Q2. Services, manufacturing, and construction sectors drove growth, while mining declined; exports rose 7.8%, and the government revised its 2024 forecast upward.

In September, Germany's producer prices fell by 1.4% year-on-year, surpassing expectations due to a sharp 6.6% drop in energy costs. Excluding energy, prices rose by 1.2%, indicating higher costs for other goods.

From October 22-24, Putin will host a pivotal BRICS summit in Kazan, inducting new members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the UAE. The summit aims to counter Western isolation narratives and discuss alternative payment systems to reduce reliance on the US dollar amidst ongoing sanctions.

This week is crucial for investors as major companies like Tesla, GE Vernova, Coca-Cola, T-Mobile, and Boeing release their quarterly earnings. Key economic indicators, including jobless claims and the Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index, will also be unveiled, providing a comprehensive view of market and economic health.

On September 24, China launched its largest stimulus package since the pandemic, aimed at revitalizing the economy with measures like cutting short-term lending rates and injecting over $100 billion into equity markets. Despite initial stock market gains, challenges like stagnant market values and a sluggish business climate persist, prompting calls for more substantial fiscal stimulus.

Global economic growth is picking up pace, led by the U.S., but remains weak overall. While the U.S. enjoys a soft landing with falling inflation and a strong labor market, consumer confidence is waning, and economies like China struggle with weak demand and structural issues.

The global economy is showing recovery signs, driven by the US's strong performance, but faces challenges like rising US public debt and slowing growth in China and Europe. India shines with robust infrastructure and manufacturing growth, while Japan and the eurozone struggle with inflation and stagnant economies.

The Institute of Policy Studies' 'State of the Economy 2024' report reveals Sri Lanka's alarming six consecutive quarters of negative economic growth, impacting wages and workforce participation. Key recommendations include boosting technical education, competitive salaries, and investments in technology and agriculture to escape the 'low productivity trap.'

Healthcare has been upgraded to 'equal-weight' from 'underweight' as investors seek cash-generating assets amid economic uncertainties in China and global trade dynamics. Meanwhile, the consumer discretionary sector is downgraded due to limited fiscal support and ongoing macroeconomic challenges, with analysts pointing to potential disruptions from US trade policies and upcoming elections.

India's economy showcased robust growth with a 7.6% GDP increase in 2023, and continued expansion is projected for the coming years. Prime Minister Modi's engagement with Singapore business leaders secured $60 billion in investments, while the Reserve Bank of India maintains stability with a steady repo rate at 6.5%.

LVMH experienced a significant sales drop in Q3, with a 16% decline in Asia excluding Japan, driven by economic woes in China. This marks the first revenue fall in fashion and leather goods since the pandemic, reflecting broader luxury market challenges.