The Intelligence from The Economist Boom with a view: our economy of the year
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Dec 30, 2025 
Join Callum Williams, a senior economics writer, as he unpacks the methodology behind the Economy of the Year ranking, revealing why Portugal tops the list. Shailesh Chitnas sheds light on the rich yet overlooked Dalit cuisine of India, explaining its historical roots and social context. Meanwhile, Charlotte Kilpatrick explores the resurgence of river commuting on the Thames, discussing its environmental benefits and the unique experiences it offers. An insightful blend of economics, culture, and urban transport awaits!
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Five Metrics Make One Score
- The ranking combines inflation, inflation breadth, GDP, employment and share-price growth into a single score.
- This multi-factor approach highlights cross-country trade-offs rather than a single headline metric.
Why 2% Inflation Is The Target
- The ranking rewards inflation near but not below 2%, avoiding deflation risks.
- Zero percent inflation can be harmful by encouraging delayed spending and raising real debt burdens.
Jobs Signal Recession Risk
- Employment remains generally healthy, though job growth varies and can signal tipping points.
- Negative job growth, as in South Korea, risks a rapid rise in unemployment and weaker demand.