Coronavirus could cost global economy $8.8trn

Report from the Asian Development Bank

David Brenchley
clock • 2 min read

The coronavirus pandemic could cost the global economy as much as $8.8trn (£7trn) in losses, or 9.7% of global gross domestic product (GDP), the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has predicted.

The forecast was predicated on a long containment period - or the time from when an outbreak intensifies in each country to when economic activity begins to normalise - scenario of six months. Under a shorter, three-month containment period, the losses to the global economy would likely come in at $5.8trn, or 6.4% of global GDP. The figures have been revised upwards from the $2trn to $4.1trn range the ADB estimated in its Asian Development Outlook report in early April. However, governments and central banks around the world have been quick to implement both fiscal and monetary sti...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

Four reasons why direct engagement can still make a difference

Four reasons why direct engagement can still make a difference

'Quantitative data arguably tells only half the story'

Simon Wood
clock 05 March 2026 • 4 min read
Darius McDermott: Is income under pressure?

Darius McDermott: Is income under pressure?

‘The period of abundant income is ebbing'

Darius McDermott
clock 04 March 2026 • 5 min read
Investors told 'hold your nerve' as Iran strikes drive volatility

Investors told 'hold your nerve' as Iran strikes drive volatility

Ongoing conflict impact

Linus Uhlig
clock 02 March 2026 • 3 min read