UOB Hosts Exclusive IMF Session on Regional Economic Outlook

The University of Business (UOB) hosted an exclusive session on the Middle East and Central Asia Regional Economic Outlook. The event, organized in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), provided attendees with critical insights into the region’s growth prospects, persistent challenges, and emerging opportunities.

The IMF Article IV Consultation mission delivered a comprehensive analysis of the factors shaping the region’s financial landscape. The speakers included John Bluedorn, Deputy Division Chief, and economist Yipei Zhang, with the attendance of senior economists Fabio Comelli and Jeong Dae Lee.

The session concluded with a positive economic growth outlook for the region in 2025, alongside improving inflation. It also addressed key risks to this recovery, such as geopolitical tensions and oil price volatility, highlighting the policy priorities of rebuilding fiscal buffers and strengthening central bank independence.

The discussion was moderated by Dr. Hana Bawazir, an Assistant Professor in Banking & Finance, and attended by UOB students and faculty.

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