S&P Global Cuts 2026 Global GDP Forecast to 2.4% on Middle East Disruptions and Brent at $100/Barrel

S&P Global slashed its 2026 global real GDP growth forecast to 2.4%, the weakest since 2009 excluding 2020 pandemic, due to Middle East conflict disruptions, Brent crude nearing $100/barrel, and resurgent inflation. The half-percentage-point cut from February delays Fed and BoE rate cuts to 2027. Financial markets saw profit-taking in S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, shifting to safe assets amid geopolitical fears.