Key Events Around the Globe: March 10

Japan Q4 GDP Revised Higher on Strong Capex, Private Spending

Japan’s economy grew more than initially estimated in the fourth quarter of 2025, revised gross domestic product data showed on Tuesday, with capital spending being a key driver of growth.

Steady consumer spending, amid strong wage growth, also helped underpin overall growth. But exports faltered amid pressure from high U.S. tariffs and a diplomatic row with major market China.

GDP grew 1.3% year-on-year in the three months to December 31, much more than earlier estimates of 0.2%, government data showed. The print was still below market expectations of 1.6%, but grew after a 2.3% drop in the prior quarter.

UK Consumer Spending Slows in February As Inflation Fears Dim Sentiment, Survey Shows

British consumer spending grew slowly in February as households grew more pessimistic about the outlook for the economy with the Middle East conflict raising concerns about a fresh rise in inflation, surveys showed on Tuesday.

Barclays said consumer confidence in the strength of the UK, European and global economy all fell in February as the most recent conflict in the Middle East escalates. A separate survey from the British Retail Consortium also painted a weak picture with sales growth among retailers dampenedbywet weather last month.

US Senator Urges Bls To Analyze Inflation Impact of Middle East Conflict

Democratic U.S. Senator Edward Markey on Monday asked the Bureau of Labor Statistics to produce and publish a comprehensive analysis of the likely impact on inflation from the Middle East conflict, which has caused a surge in oil prices.

In a letter to the BLS acting Commissioner William Wiatrowski, Markey requested that the analysis cover the next six months to twelve months, arguing households had seen a rise in gasoline prices as well as higher prices at the supermarket and utility bills since the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran at the end of February and retaliation by Tehran.

UBS Warns Energy Shock May Cloud UK Outlook Despite Steady Spring Statement

The UK government’s Spring Statement brought no new policy announcements on Monday, as Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed plans to make the Autumn budget the main annual fiscal event, according to UBS economist Maelle Quillevere.

The Office for Budget Responsibility updated its assumptions, projecting lower GDP growth for 2026 due to weaker-than-expected performance at the end of last year, but higher growth over the following two years. The report also showed inflation returning to target faster than previously forecast.

Source: HSL Prime Daily, 10 March 2026