IMF Cuts 2026 Global Growth Forecast to 3.1% on Middle East Energy Shocks

The IMF cut its 2026 global growth forecast to 3.1% from 3.3% in January due to the Middle East conflict since late February and Strait of Hormuz lockdown. Oil nears $105 per barrel, lifting headline inflation to 4.4% with energy prices up 19%. Emerging markets face the sharpest hit, with growth at 3.9%.[1][3]