2024: inflation fuels anti-incumbent sentiment; elections shake global leadership amid ongoing conflicts and ai adaptation.
Inflation, elections, and conflict were key themes in 2024.
While inflation rates decreased globally, voters remained dissatisfied due to prior price surges.
As a result, many ruling parties faced backlash in elections.
In the United States, high costs contributed to Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, despite previously losing to Joe Biden amid claims of election fraud.
This shift has raised concerns regarding American democracy and international relations.
Inflation-related unrest also led to new governments in Britain, Botswana, Portugal, and Panama.
In South Korea, opposition gained parliamentary control, challenging President Yoon Suk Yeol, who had imposed martial law in December, only to see it overturned.
Elections brought changes in France, Germany, Japan, and India as well.
Conversely, Russia saw continuity, with Vladimir Putin securing re-election amidst ongoing military operations in Ukraine.
Trump’s possible return to the White House raises questions on his approach to the Ukraine conflict and relations with Putin.
In the Middle East, Israel intensified its military campaign against Gaza, extending actions into Lebanon, while a coalition of rebels in Syria succeeded in dethroning Bashar al-Assad.
On the business front, global companies faced challenges integrating artificial intelligence.
Seven major tech firms now dominate the S&P 500, highlighting their significant market influence.
Elon Musk, at the helm of Tesla, plays a key role as an adviser to President-elect Trump, potentially shaping the landscape for 2025.
