- Factory activity in Europe and Asia ended 2024 on a weak note due to trade risks and economic uncertainties.
- Euro zone manufacturing continued to decline, with Germany, France, and Italy in an industrial recession.
- Asian manufacturing showed mixed results; China and South Korea slowed, while Taiwan and Southeast Asia improved.
- President-elect Trump’s tariff pledges increased global trade tensions, particularly with Mexico, Canada, and China.
- China’s manufacturing PMI fell to 50.5 in December, indicating modest growth despite policy support.
