Global outlook: What's in store for investors

WE are having yet another year where investors started off optimistic about the global economic outlook with talk of synchronised growth only to find that the global growth story remains patchy. In fact, so much so that it's possible to paint wildly different pictures as to the outlook - some are worried about growth and inflation taking off, whereas others warn of imminent collapse. The truth is likely to remain somewhere in between these extremes. But, in a way, this is not a bad thing as it keeps central banks supportive.

This column looks at the major regions in terms of growth, inflation and interest rates and what it means for investors.

The US - looking good but not booming