Finance and Economy

IMF officials feel that without decisive action, Bangladesh risks not only losing the immediate $1.3 billion tranche but also jeopardising future disbursements and its broader reform credibility.

The Bangladesh government is finalising what officials describe as a “big national budget” worth Tk 9.30 trillion for the fiscal year 2026-27.

As tensions persist, the world watches closely, aware that even minor escalations could have far-reaching consequences. The Strait of Hormuz, long recognised for its strategic importance in energy markets, is now emerging as a critical node in the global food supply chain.

IMF says, with tensions still high and no immediate resolution in sight, policymakers, businesses and households must prepare for a more challenging economic environment.

In its policy brief released on Monday, the UNDP described the conflict as “development in reverse”, cautioning that even a fragile ceasefire may not prevent long-lasting economic damage.

Oxfam accuses the IMF of a “troubling double standard” in tax advice, handing progressive policies to rich nations while pushing regressive measures on India...

At the international poverty line of $3 a day, an additional 1.4 million people are estimated to have slipped into poverty between 2022 and 2025 due to stagnant labour incomes and persistent inflation that eroded the benefits of whatever growth occurred.

The UN assessment ends on a note of cautious urgency. The Seville Commitment, though imperfect, still represents the clearest roadmap available.