IMF Cuts 2026 Global Growth to 3.1% Inflation to 4.4% Amid Middle East War

The IMF’s April 2026 World Economic Outlook slashed global growth to 3.1% for 2026 from 3.4% prior, citing Middle East war disruptions to trade routes including the Strait of Hormuz. Headline inflation is forecast to rise to 4.4% with oil near $105 per barrel. Emerging markets face a cut to 3.9% growth, while S&P Global sees a halving to 2.4%.