Financial market participants have been increasingly optimistic about the prospects for a soft landing in the global economy. A substantial easing cycle in monetary policy is expected over the next two years or so, with inflation returning to central banks’ targets and unemployment rising only modestly. Although pressures from high inflation and tight monetary policy continue to weigh on many households and businesses, a number of developments – including the resolution of supply chain disruptions, declines in energy prices, continued strength in labour markets, strong household balance sheets and solid corporate ... (full story)