The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has fueled global pessimism regarding future economic recovery. This pessimism is evident in the World Economic Forum (WEF)'s *The Global Risks Report 2022*.
The WEF survey reveals that approximately 84% of respondents feel worried and concerned about the current global situation, while only about 16% express a positive and optimistic outlook.
Furthermore, around 89% of respondents believe the global situation will continue to deteriorate in the coming years, with only 11% anticipating an improvement.
Here are the top 5 economic issues causing the most global concern:
1. Debt Crisis
The WEF survey indicates that 13.8% of respondents consider the debt crisis to be worsening since the pandemic, affecting individuals, businesses, and governments alike. A majority of respondents fear this debt crisis will lead to widespread defaults, mass bankruptcies, or a liquidity crisis in the coming years.
2. Stagnant Economy
Besides debt, another major concern is stagnant economic growth. 6.9% of respondents worry that the prolonged pandemic will hinder long-term economic growth.
3. Asset Bubble
Another significant economic concern is the asset bubble. 6.7% of respondents fear that soaring asset and property prices will become unaffordable for the general public, posing a risk of a large-scale financial crisis.
4. Industry Collapse
Many people worldwide are also concerned about the potential collapse of numerous industries in the coming years. 4.1% of respondents fear that such collapses will directly impact public welfare.
5. Price Instability
Finally, global instability in prices is a major concern. 3.3% of respondents feel that the stability of goods and services prices has worsened since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.
(See also: Impact of the Pandemic: 7.06 Percent of Micro, Small Industries Closed at the End of 2020)