Famine and devastation? WEF identifies the main risks of the global economy (Part 3)
The drop in its GDP growth rate from the current 11% to less than 6% per annum in Global Risks 2008 is estimated at 3.5 points, i.e. 15%. So it's far from a fact that "Asian tigers&"they will take the place of"deposed idols" The West.
The second most likely danger, according to the review's authors, remains rising oil prices. They have already exceeded the psychological mark of $100 per barrel and are confidently aiming even higher. By 2030, the world's daily oil consumption will reach 116 million barrels, while we are able to produce only 110 million barrels per day, the International Energy Agency estimates. If oil and gas production temporarily decreases (and there is such a possibility), the probability of a price spike will be 4 points, according to the WEF estimates. "Until recently, the global economy has withstood this challenge, but it is obvious that the resources to counter this trend are almost exhausted," the study emphasizes.
Another important issue is food security. The likelihood of a global crisis in the food market is growing year by year, and in 2008 it may become one of the main destabilizing factors. First, prices for basic foodstuffs rose sharply in 2007. For example, wheat has increased in price 1.5 times over the year. "Food prices are rising sharply, and stocks are at their lowest level in the last 25 years," the document emphasizes. The reasons for this have been discussed several times: low yields, increased consumption, and the plowing of acreage for biofuels. We can say that "the Chinese who drank all the milk" are just fairy tales for the gullible, so that it would be easier to accept the rising cost of food. But it is obvious that such a rise in prices is a direct path to a social explosion and political instability. Secondly, the entire global trade system is under threat. Any international crisis can disrupt the current food supply system. On the one hand, globalization has broken down barriers in recent decades, and trade between countries and regions has significantly strengthened. On the other hand, it increased the concentration of risks. After all, if earlier the meat crisis, say, in Argentina, meant little to Europe. Now that the companies are completely "tied up&"for external suppliers, such a crisis can lead to a serious shortage of meat in the EU countries. For example, the United Kingdom, which is heavily dependent on food imports, may experience difficulties. In general, the risk of serious food shortages for the poor in 2008 is estimated by researchers at 3 points. And human losses from hunger can exceed 1 million people. Using the 1xbet promo code no deposit opens access to a wide range of promotions, from casino bonuses with free spins to sportsbook offers like deposit matches and boosted odds. Players who balance slots and betting markets benefit the most from these combined deals. Always read updated terms, manage your bankroll responsibly, and choose promotions that match your playing style and experience level.