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Bybit Finalizes MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Integration

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 – Bybit, one of the world’s fastest growing cryptocurrency exchanges, has completed its integration of MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the gold standard for forex (FX) and contract for differences (CFD) trading. Widely popular among retail traders, MT4 offers advanced technical analysis, a flexible trading system, and algorithmic trading tools.

Developed by MetaQuotes, MT4’s functionalities on Bybit will be available to all Bybit users. Upon launch, Bybit users can trade USDT perpetual contracts 24/7, with low spreads, while leveraging on our deep liquidity. They can also integrate Expert Advisors for an automated trading experience, allowing them to integrate their trading scripts from other providers offering MT4.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Functionalities

The integration will provide Bybit users with leading trading and analytical technologies to implement their trading strategies easily. Users trading on Bybit’s MT4 will be trading off Bybit’s order book and liquidity prices — facilitating direct peer-to-peer buy/sell transactions, as Bybit’s deep liquidity ensures minimal slippage.

MT4 also comes with technical indicators and algorithmic trading tools to automatically copy deals of other traders and support users in their trading journey. Additionally, MT4 offers users customizable layouts with an intuitive interface and interactive charts to plan and manage their trades.

Adding Advanced Trading Features to World Class Liquidity and Reliability

Bybit has proven itself to be the most reliable, stable and usable cryptocurrency exchange of the bull run, offering the best liquidity. Unique among major exchanges, Bybit experienced a 99.99% up rate throughout the year, with no overload nor downtime throughout.

Liquidity is arguably the be-all and end-all attribute for asset exchanges. Bybit’s derivatives trading platform has the world’s best liquidity and tightest spread. Traders are ensured the best quote and best execution in the market even during extreme volatility.

Bybit’s retail focused products and customer support focused services will help lower the entry threshold to crypto trading to a whole host of new customers around the world, allowing them to seamlessly enjoy the immediate delivery of crypto trades.

Integration with MT4 will support the platform in becoming a fully integrated trading powerhouse with a user-friendly interface.

“As one of the most advanced and convenient trading solutions, MT4 is an excellent tool for our users to elevate their trading experience,” said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are excited to bring our products and services to the next level with this integration with MT4, and we look forward to our users benefiting from its functionalities and navigating the rise of digital assets with us.”

About Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange established in March 2018 that offers a professional platform where crypto traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, excellent customer service and multilingual community support. The company provides innovative online spot and derivatives trading services, mining and staking products, an NFT marketplace as well as API support, to retail and institutional clients around the world, and strives to be the most reliable exchange for the emerging digital asset class. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One racing team, Oracle Red Bull Racing, esports teams NAVI, Astralis, Alliance, Virtus.pro and Oracle Red Bull Racing Esports, and association football (soccer) teams Borussia Dortmund and Avispa Fukuoka.

For more information please visit:

For updates, please follow Bybit’s social media platforms on









#Bybit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Bybit Finalizes MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Integration

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 – Bybit, one of the world’s fastest growing cryptocurrency exchanges, has completed its integration of MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the gold standard for forex (FX) and contract for differences (CFD) trading. Widely popular among retail traders, MT4 offers advanced technical analysis, a flexible trading system, and algorithmic trading tools.

Developed by MetaQuotes, MT4’s functionalities on Bybit will be available to all Bybit users. Upon launch, Bybit users can trade USDT perpetual contracts 24/7, with low spreads, while leveraging on our deep liquidity. They can also integrate Expert Advisors for an automated trading experience, allowing them to integrate their trading scripts from other providers offering MT4.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Functionalities

The integration will provide Bybit users with leading trading and analytical technologies to implement their trading strategies easily. Users trading on Bybit’s MT4 will be trading off Bybit’s order book and liquidity prices — facilitating direct peer-to-peer buy/sell transactions, as Bybit’s deep liquidity ensures minimal slippage.

MT4 also comes with technical indicators and algorithmic trading tools to automatically copy deals of other traders and support users in their trading journey. Additionally, MT4 offers users customizable layouts with an intuitive interface and interactive charts to plan and manage their trades.

Adding Advanced Trading Features to World Class Liquidity and Reliability

Bybit has proven itself to be the most reliable, stable and usable cryptocurrency exchange of the bull run, offering the best liquidity. Unique among major exchanges, Bybit experienced a 99.99% up rate throughout the year, with no overload nor downtime throughout.

Liquidity is arguably the be-all and end-all attribute for asset exchanges. Bybit’s derivatives trading platform has the world’s best liquidity and tightest spread. Traders are ensured the best quote and best execution in the market even during extreme volatility.

Bybit’s retail focused products and customer support focused services will help lower the entry threshold to crypto trading to a whole host of new customers around the world, allowing them to seamlessly enjoy the immediate delivery of crypto trades.

Integration with MT4 will support the platform in becoming a fully integrated trading powerhouse with a user-friendly interface.

“As one of the most advanced and convenient trading solutions, MT4 is an excellent tool for our users to elevate their trading experience,” said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are excited to bring our products and services to the next level with this integration with MT4, and we look forward to our users benefiting from its functionalities and navigating the rise of digital assets with us.”

About Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange established in March 2018 that offers a professional platform where crypto traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, excellent customer service and multilingual community support. The company provides innovative online spot and derivatives trading services, mining and staking products, an NFT marketplace as well as API support, to retail and institutional clients around the world, and strives to be the most reliable exchange for the emerging digital asset class. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One racing team, Oracle Red Bull Racing, esports teams NAVI, Astralis, Alliance, Virtus.pro and Oracle Red Bull Racing Esports, and association football (soccer) teams Borussia Dortmund and Avispa Fukuoka.

For more information please visit:

For updates, please follow Bybit’s social media platforms on









#Bybit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Bybit Finalizes MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Integration

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 – Bybit, one of the world’s fastest growing cryptocurrency exchanges, has completed its integration of MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the gold standard for forex (FX) and contract for differences (CFD) trading. Widely popular among retail traders, MT4 offers advanced technical analysis, a flexible trading system, and algorithmic trading tools.

Developed by MetaQuotes, MT4’s functionalities on Bybit will be available to all Bybit users. Upon launch, Bybit users can trade USDT perpetual contracts 24/7, with low spreads, while leveraging on our deep liquidity. They can also integrate Expert Advisors for an automated trading experience, allowing them to integrate their trading scripts from other providers offering MT4.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Functionalities

The integration will provide Bybit users with leading trading and analytical technologies to implement their trading strategies easily. Users trading on Bybit’s MT4 will be trading off Bybit’s order book and liquidity prices — facilitating direct peer-to-peer buy/sell transactions, as Bybit’s deep liquidity ensures minimal slippage.

MT4 also comes with technical indicators and algorithmic trading tools to automatically copy deals of other traders and support users in their trading journey. Additionally, MT4 offers users customizable layouts with an intuitive interface and interactive charts to plan and manage their trades.

Adding Advanced Trading Features to World Class Liquidity and Reliability

Bybit has proven itself to be the most reliable, stable and usable cryptocurrency exchange of the bull run, offering the best liquidity. Unique among major exchanges, Bybit experienced a 99.99% up rate throughout the year, with no overload nor downtime throughout.

Liquidity is arguably the be-all and end-all attribute for asset exchanges. Bybit’s derivatives trading platform has the world’s best liquidity and tightest spread. Traders are ensured the best quote and best execution in the market even during extreme volatility.

Bybit’s retail focused products and customer support focused services will help lower the entry threshold to crypto trading to a whole host of new customers around the world, allowing them to seamlessly enjoy the immediate delivery of crypto trades.

Integration with MT4 will support the platform in becoming a fully integrated trading powerhouse with a user-friendly interface.

“As one of the most advanced and convenient trading solutions, MT4 is an excellent tool for our users to elevate their trading experience,” said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are excited to bring our products and services to the next level with this integration with MT4, and we look forward to our users benefiting from its functionalities and navigating the rise of digital assets with us.”

About Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange established in March 2018 that offers a professional platform where crypto traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, excellent customer service and multilingual community support. The company provides innovative online spot and derivatives trading services, mining and staking products, an NFT marketplace as well as API support, to retail and institutional clients around the world, and strives to be the most reliable exchange for the emerging digital asset class. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One racing team, Oracle Red Bull Racing, esports teams NAVI, Astralis, Alliance, Virtus.pro and Oracle Red Bull Racing Esports, and association football (soccer) teams Borussia Dortmund and Avispa Fukuoka.

For more information please visit:

For updates, please follow Bybit’s social media platforms on









#Bybit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Bybit Finalizes MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Integration

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 – Bybit, one of the world’s fastest growing cryptocurrency exchanges, has completed its integration of MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the gold standard for forex (FX) and contract for differences (CFD) trading. Widely popular among retail traders, MT4 offers advanced technical analysis, a flexible trading system, and algorithmic trading tools.

Developed by MetaQuotes, MT4’s functionalities on Bybit will be available to all Bybit users. Upon launch, Bybit users can trade USDT perpetual contracts 24/7, with low spreads, while leveraging on our deep liquidity. They can also integrate Expert Advisors for an automated trading experience, allowing them to integrate their trading scripts from other providers offering MT4.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Functionalities

The integration will provide Bybit users with leading trading and analytical technologies to implement their trading strategies easily. Users trading on Bybit’s MT4 will be trading off Bybit’s order book and liquidity prices — facilitating direct peer-to-peer buy/sell transactions, as Bybit’s deep liquidity ensures minimal slippage.

MT4 also comes with technical indicators and algorithmic trading tools to automatically copy deals of other traders and support users in their trading journey. Additionally, MT4 offers users customizable layouts with an intuitive interface and interactive charts to plan and manage their trades.

Adding Advanced Trading Features to World Class Liquidity and Reliability

Bybit has proven itself to be the most reliable, stable and usable cryptocurrency exchange of the bull run, offering the best liquidity. Unique among major exchanges, Bybit experienced a 99.99% up rate throughout the year, with no overload nor downtime throughout.

Liquidity is arguably the be-all and end-all attribute for asset exchanges. Bybit’s derivatives trading platform has the world’s best liquidity and tightest spread. Traders are ensured the best quote and best execution in the market even during extreme volatility.

Bybit’s retail focused products and customer support focused services will help lower the entry threshold to crypto trading to a whole host of new customers around the world, allowing them to seamlessly enjoy the immediate delivery of crypto trades.

Integration with MT4 will support the platform in becoming a fully integrated trading powerhouse with a user-friendly interface.

“As one of the most advanced and convenient trading solutions, MT4 is an excellent tool for our users to elevate their trading experience,” said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are excited to bring our products and services to the next level with this integration with MT4, and we look forward to our users benefiting from its functionalities and navigating the rise of digital assets with us.”

About Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange established in March 2018 that offers a professional platform where crypto traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, excellent customer service and multilingual community support. The company provides innovative online spot and derivatives trading services, mining and staking products, an NFT marketplace as well as API support, to retail and institutional clients around the world, and strives to be the most reliable exchange for the emerging digital asset class. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One racing team, Oracle Red Bull Racing, esports teams NAVI, Astralis, Alliance, Virtus.pro and Oracle Red Bull Racing Esports, and association football (soccer) teams Borussia Dortmund and Avispa Fukuoka.

For more information please visit:

For updates, please follow Bybit’s social media platforms on









#Bybit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Bybit Finalizes MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Integration

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 – Bybit, one of the world’s fastest growing cryptocurrency exchanges, has completed its integration of MetaTrader 4 (MT4), the gold standard for forex (FX) and contract for differences (CFD) trading. Widely popular among retail traders, MT4 offers advanced technical analysis, a flexible trading system, and algorithmic trading tools.

Developed by MetaQuotes, MT4’s functionalities on Bybit will be available to all Bybit users. Upon launch, Bybit users can trade USDT perpetual contracts 24/7, with low spreads, while leveraging on our deep liquidity. They can also integrate Expert Advisors for an automated trading experience, allowing them to integrate their trading scripts from other providers offering MT4.

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) Functionalities

The integration will provide Bybit users with leading trading and analytical technologies to implement their trading strategies easily. Users trading on Bybit’s MT4 will be trading off Bybit’s order book and liquidity prices — facilitating direct peer-to-peer buy/sell transactions, as Bybit’s deep liquidity ensures minimal slippage.

MT4 also comes with technical indicators and algorithmic trading tools to automatically copy deals of other traders and support users in their trading journey. Additionally, MT4 offers users customizable layouts with an intuitive interface and interactive charts to plan and manage their trades.

Adding Advanced Trading Features to World Class Liquidity and Reliability

Bybit has proven itself to be the most reliable, stable and usable cryptocurrency exchange of the bull run, offering the best liquidity. Unique among major exchanges, Bybit experienced a 99.99% up rate throughout the year, with no overload nor downtime throughout.

Liquidity is arguably the be-all and end-all attribute for asset exchanges. Bybit’s derivatives trading platform has the world’s best liquidity and tightest spread. Traders are ensured the best quote and best execution in the market even during extreme volatility.

Bybit’s retail focused products and customer support focused services will help lower the entry threshold to crypto trading to a whole host of new customers around the world, allowing them to seamlessly enjoy the immediate delivery of crypto trades.

Integration with MT4 will support the platform in becoming a fully integrated trading powerhouse with a user-friendly interface.

“As one of the most advanced and convenient trading solutions, MT4 is an excellent tool for our users to elevate their trading experience,” said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit. “We are excited to bring our products and services to the next level with this integration with MT4, and we look forward to our users benefiting from its functionalities and navigating the rise of digital assets with us.”

About Bybit

Bybit is a cryptocurrency exchange established in March 2018 that offers a professional platform where crypto traders can find an ultra-fast matching engine, excellent customer service and multilingual community support. The company provides innovative online spot and derivatives trading services, mining and staking products, an NFT marketplace as well as API support, to retail and institutional clients around the world, and strives to be the most reliable exchange for the emerging digital asset class. Bybit is a proud partner of Formula One racing team, Oracle Red Bull Racing, esports teams NAVI, Astralis, Alliance, Virtus.pro and Oracle Red Bull Racing Esports, and association football (soccer) teams Borussia Dortmund and Avispa Fukuoka.

For more information please visit:

For updates, please follow Bybit’s social media platforms on









#Bybit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Laos to Eliminate Six Diseases Within 14 Years

Vietnamese doctors work in a Lao hospital
Vietnamese doctors provide assistance in a Lao hospital.

Health officials in Laos have announced a plan to eliminate six diseases in the country within the next 14 years.

Spackman Media Group Artist Kim Sang-kyung’s Upcoming Film, AIR MURDER, To Premier On April 22nd

  • Spackman Media Group artist Kim Sang-kyung’s new film, AIR MURDER, is scheduled to be released on April 22nd
  • AIR MURDER is co-produced by the Group’s indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Platform Media Group
  • Veteran actor Kim Sang-kyung of Spackman Media Group recently starred in SBS drama, RACKET BOY BAND (2021), which was released on Netflix & SBS

SINGAPOREMedia OutReach 6 April 2022 Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (the “Group“), one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups founded in 2011 by media & technology investor Charles Spackman, wishes to announce that upcoming Korean film, AIR MURDER, starring veteran actor Kim Sang-kyung of Spackman Media Group Limited (“Spackman Media Group“), is set to premiere on April 22nd in Korea.

Co-produced by the Group’s indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Platform Media Group Co., Ltd. (“Platform Media Group“) and Master One Entertainment, AIR MURDER is based on the true story of the tragic humidifier disinfectant disaster that caused multiple deaths among consumers in Korea. Kim Sang-kyung plays the role of a doctor who stands up against the corporate manufacturer of the deadly humidifier disinfectant after losing his son and wife to an unknown lung disease. AIR MURDER is directed and written by Jo Yong-sun.

Previously, Kim Sang-kyung of Spackman Media Group starred in SBS drama RACKET BOY BAND (2021), which was released on Netflix & SBS. He also starred in tvN’s and Netflix’s THE CROWNED CLOWN (2019). Kim Sang-kyung also won the Jury Special Award for his role in THE DISCLOSER at the 38th Golden Cinematography Awards. He is widely known for his leading roles in MEMORIES OF MURDER (2003), directed by Bong Joon-ho of PARASITE (2019), and MAY 18 (2007). Kim Sang-kyung won the Jury Special Award at the 38th Golden Cinematography Awards in 2018 and the Excellence Award & Netizen Award at the 2014 KBS Drama Awards.

About Spackman Entertainment Group Limited

Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (“SEGL” or the “Company“), and together with its subsidiaries, (the “Group“), is one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups. SEGL is primarily engaged in the independent development, production, presentation, and financing of theatrical motion pictures in Korea.

The Company was founded in 2011 by renowned media and technology investor Charles Spackman who served as the Company’s Executive Chairman until 2017. For the past two decades, Mr. Charles Spackman has been a powerhouse in the Korean entertainment industry starting in the early 2000’s with the pioneering success of Sidus Pictures, the largest movie production company at the time and the first to be listed in Korea. Mr. Spackman is also the Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the global investment firm, Spackman Group. For more information, please visit and .

Since its founding, SEGL had produced more than 30 major motion pictures including a number of the highest grossing and award-winning films in Korea, namely #ALIVE (2020), CRAZY ROMANCE (2019), DEFAULT (2018), MASTER (2016), THE PRIESTS (2015), SNOWPIERCER (2013), COLD EYES (2013) and ALL ABOUT MY WIFE (2012).

Our films are theatrically distributed and released in Korea and overseas markets, as well as for subsequent post-theatrical worldwide release in other forms of media, including online streaming, cable TV, broadcast TV, IPTV, video-on-demand, and home video/DVD, etc. Generally, we release our motion pictures into wide-theatrical exhibition initially in Korea, and then in overseas and ancillary markets.

The Group also invests into and produces Korean television dramas. In addition to our content business, we also own equity stakes in entertainment-related companies and film funds that can financially and strategically complement our existing core operations. SEGL is listed on the Catalist of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited under the ticker 40E.

Production Labels

SEGL owns Novus Mediacorp Co., Ltd. (“Novus Mediacorp“), an investor, presenter, and/or post-theatrical distributor for a total of 79 films (58 Korean and 21 foreign) including ROSE OF BETRAYAL, THE OUTLAWS and SECRETLY, GREATLY, which was one of the biggest box office hits of 2013 starring Kim Soo-hyun of MY LOVE FROM THE STARS, as well as FRIEND 2: THE GREAT LEGACY. In 2012, Novus Mediacorp was also the post-theatrical rights distributor of ALL ABOUT MY WIFE, a top-grossing romantic comedy produced by Zip Cinema. In 2018, THE OUTLAWS, co-presented by Novus Mediacorp broke the all-time highest Video On Demand (“VOD“) sales records in Korea. For more information, please visit

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Simplex Films Limited (“Simplex Films“) which is an early stage film production firm. The maiden film of Simplex Films, JESTERS: THE GAME CHANGERS (2019), was released in Korea on 21 August 2019. Simplex Films has several line-up of films including HURRICANE BROTHERS (working title).

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Take Pictures Pte. Ltd. (“Take Pictures“) which produced STONE SKIPPING (2020) and THE BOX (2021), and shall release THE GUEST in the second half of 2022 and A MAN OF REASON, with the previous working title GUARDIAN in 2022 tentatively.

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Greenlight Content Limited (“Greenlight Content“) which is mainly involved in the business of investing into dramas and movies, as well as providing consulting services for the production of Korean content. Through the acquisition of Greenlight Content, the Group’s first co-produced drama, MY SECRET TERRIUS, starring top Korean star, So Ji Sub, achieved #1 in drama viewership ratings for its time slot and recorded double digits for its highest viewership ratings. Greenlight Content was one of the main investors of MY SECRET TERRIUS.

The Company owns a 20% equity interest in The Makers Studio Co. Ltd., which plans to produce and release four upcoming films, the first of which will be THE ISLAND OF THE GHOST’S WAIL, a comedy horror film.

Talent Representation

The Company holds an effective shareholding interest of 43.88% in Spackman Media Group Limited (“SMGL“). SMGL, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, together with its subsidiaries, is collectively one of the largest entertainment talent agencies in Korea in terms of the number of artists under management, including some of the top names in the Korean entertainment industry. SMGL operates its talent management business through renowned agencies such as MSteam Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Son Ye-jin, Wi Ha-jun, Lee Min-jung, Ko Sung-hee), SBD Entertainment Inc. (Son Suk-ku, Han Ji-hyun, Lee Cho-hee, Park Keun-rok), UAA&CO Inc. (Kim Sang-kyung, Kim Hye-ri, Kim Ji-young, Wang Ji-won), Play Content Co., Ltd. (Kang Min-ji, Hwang-hwi) and Kook Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Baek Si-won, Shin Ji-woong). Through these full-service talent agencies in Korea, SMGL represents and guides the professional careers of a leading roster of award-winning actors/actresses in the practice areas of motion pictures, television, commercial endorsements, and branded entertainment. SMGL leverages its unparalleled portfolio of artists as a platform to develop, produce, finance and own the highest quality of entertainment content projects, including theatrical motion pictures, variety shows and TV dramas. This platform also creates and derives opportunities for SMGL to make strategic investments in development stage businesses that can collaborate with SMGL artists. SMGL is an associated company of the Company. For more information, please visit

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Constellation Agency Pte. Ltd. (“Constellation Agency“). Constellation Agency, which owns The P Factory Co., Ltd. (“The P Factory“) and Platform Media Group Co., Ltd. (“PMG“), is primarily involved in the business of overseas agency for Korean artists venturing into the overseas market. The P Factory is an innovative marketing solutions provider specializing in event and branded content production. PMG is a talent management agency which represents and manages the careers of major artists in film, television, commercial endorsements and branded entertainment.

Strategic Businesses

The Company also operates a café-restaurant, Upper West, in the Gangnam district of Seoul and own a professional photography studio, noon pictures Co., Ltd.

For more details, please visit

#SpackmanEntertainmentGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

KPMG Global Economic Outlook H1 2022: Geopolitical uncertainty to lower growth prospects, increase inflationary pressures

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 April 2022 –

  • Russia-Ukraine war to lower global growth prospects and increase inflationary pressures
  • Central banks’ change in policy stance could add to markets’ volatility
  • On-going geopolitical uncertainties could see further disruptions to production and trade

KPMG GLOBAL ECONOMIC OUTLOOK H1’2022

The on-going conflict in Ukraine is set to lower global growth prospects and increase inflationary pressures across the world, according to the latest KPMG Global Economic Outlook.

The bi-annual report provides economic forecasts and analysis from the global organization’s team of economists in territories and regions throughout the world.

The latest edition, covering H1’2022, warns progress on global issues including public health and climate change has slowed as political and business leaders grapple with the broad implications of the war in Ukraine.

While Russia and Ukraine together represent a relatively small part of the world economy, both countries account for a large share of global energy exports, as well as exports of a range of metals, food staples and agricultural inputs. Together, Russia and Ukraine account for almost a third of global wheat exports.

Inflation on a high exacerbates central banks’ dilemma

The global economy emerged from the COVID-19 recession with higher public debt and as central banks raise interest rates, the servicing cost of sovereign debt also increases, making it particularly challenging for emerging countries whose debt is denominated in an appreciating US dollar. With policymakers and many businesses still reeling from the consequences of the pandemic, they are less ready to counter another significant economic shock.

Yael Selfin, Chief Economist at KPMG in the UK, said:

“As we continue to emerge from the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, one of the major concerns has been the rise in inflation across many parts of the world. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has further intensified these pressures. Our analysis found that global inflation could average between 4.5%-7.7% this year and between 2.9%-4.3% in 2023, depending on how the crisis evolves. The change in central banks’ stance to address rising inflationary pressures, especially the Fed’s, could add volatility to markets as they adjust to a new policy direction. Going forward, the world economy will have to navigate a difficult period ahead under a cloud of geopolitical uncertainty. Businesses and households will be hoping for the best but should plan for potential ongoing disruptions and uncertainty.”

Global growth outlook

The outlook for the next two years will depend on how the conflict between Russia and Ukraine evolves. With so much uncertainty at present, KPMG’s Global Economic Outlook has developed three scenarios to examine the prospects for the world economy:

  • The main scenario assumes that world oil prices will be US$30 higher than their path prior to the escalation of the crisis, while gas prices will be 50% higher across Europe. It also incorporates a 5% rise in global food prices.
  • A more severe scenario looks at the potential impact with world oil prices US$40 higher together with a 100% rise in gas prices for Europe and 50% rise in gas prices for the rest of the world. This downside scenario also assumes a 10% rise in global food prices. Both scenarios incorporate a 23% rise in average metal prices and a 4% increase in the cost of agricultural inputs. They also include higher investment risk premia and additional government spending in Europe.
  • The report’s upside scenario looks at the possible outcome should the conflict resolve sooner than anticipated, with prices returning to early February levels and production and trade flows restored.

The report’s analysis found that global GDP growth could range between 3.3%-4% this year and between 2.5%-3.2% in 2023, depending on the scenario. Risks to KPMG’s forecast are currently skewed to the downside. It is possible to envisage that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalates beyond the report’s downside scenario, with cuts to energy supplies for example causing a significant disruption to production in parts of Europe. The COVID-19 pandemic is still causing shutdowns in major economies such as China, and a new wave could undo the progress in easing global supply chain blockages.

Paul Kent, Partner, Advisory at KPMG in Singapore, said:

“Many ASEAN countries, including Singapore, have signalled their intent to accelerate economic recovery as they move towards an endemic COVID-19 phase. However, as KPMG’s 2022 Global Economic Outlook report has indicated, growth will likely be tempered due to immediate challenges such as the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, higher commodity prices, the latest Omicron wave in China and rising global interest rates. Meanwhile, inflation rates are trending upwards across the ASEAN region, though they remain relatively low by global standards. An exception is Singapore, with inflation currently at a nine-year high of 4 per cent. All eyes will be on the Singapore government’s delicate dance in tackling the rising costs for households and businesses, while ensuring that the economy remains competitive.”

ASEAN growth outlook

Inflation is picking up across the ASEAN region in part driven by the easing of Monetary Policy during the pandemic. But unlike other parts of the world, momentum in prices is still relatively low – consumer price inflation in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam is currently sitting between 2% and 3%. Fiscal supports through the pandemic were generally smaller, resulting in a slower recovery in domestic demand and more muted local inflationary pressures. However, Singapore – where government support has been more significant – is an exception, with inflation currently at a high of 4%, not seen since 2013.

The recent rises in food and fuel prices will impact the region. A significant portion of wheat imports (to Indonesia and Philippines in particular) are sourced from Russia and Ukraine. Additionally, agriculture in the region is also heavily reliant on Russia and Belarus for potassic fertiliser. The adverse impacts of higher fuel prices are, however, partially offset in commodity-producing economies such as Indonesia and Malaysia through higher government revenues.

The Russian-Ukrainian conflict is also set to disrupt manufacturing supply chains, as a result of shortages in key inputs such as neon and semi-finished iron and steel, which are essential for the production of chips (neon) and cars, machinery and electronics (steel).

In some countries, such as Indonesia and Singapore, attention has started to shift towards fiscal consolidation with the announcement of tax increases as initial signs of economic recovery emerge. This will slow growth momentum going through H2 2022 and 2023, as will the exhausting of the easy wins from re-opening, which will take the pace of growth in many countries back towards long-run trend rates.

Gary Reader, Global Head of Clients and Markets at KPMG, commented:

“Before the outbreak of war in Ukraine, different territories and regions were at different stages of their post-COVID-19 economic recovery, and that is reflected in the analysis from our Chief Economists. But, while GDP forecasting varies, there are a number of clear, consistent themes and threats facing the planet. Armed conflict may currently be restricted to Eastern Europe, but it’s already having far-reaching consequences for all nations.

“Supply chain issues have moved from a post-covid issue to a major immediate threat, with potential shortages in natural gas, metals and grains, among many others. While shortages will impact every territory, we anticipate a disproportionate impact on some of the world’s poorest places and people, compounding long-term challenges for the planet’s collective recovery. Meanwhile, inflation looks set to become a major theme for everyone, raising the threat of a worldwide cost-of-living crisis. Economic forecasting is not a perfect science, but what KPMG’s Global Economic Outlook does do is shine a light on the path ahead, providing a degree of guidance in an increasingly difficult journey.”

Read and download KPMG’s Global Economic Outlook report here.

About KPMG’s Global Economic Outlook

KPMG’s Global Economic Outlook provides bi-annual economic forecasts, produced by macroeconomics teams across KPMG’s global network using a suite of external and in-house models capturing the main inter-relationships in the world economy. As with all forecasts, these are subject to considerable uncertainty and the outturn may differ significantly.

About KPMG International

KPMG is a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 145 countries and territories with more than 236,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.

KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

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