Although it is still a low-probability scenario, a
faster-than-expected slowdown in China
combined with a more protracted deceleration in
other large emerging markets is a risk. Empirical
estimates suggest that a sustained 1 percentage
point decline in growth in the BRICS (Brazil, the
Russian Federation, India, China, and South
Africa) would reduce growth in other emerging
and developing economies by around 0.8
percentage point and global growth by 0.4
percentage point. This suggests a substantial risk
of contagion through other emerging markets,
with potential adverse effects for some advanced
economies as well. Compounding this risk is the
possibility of a protracted decline in potential
growth throughout emerging and developing
economies, persistently subdued growth in major
high-income countries, and an escalation of geopolitical tensions. In addition, baseline
forecasts of a smooth monetary policy tightening
cycle in the United States are subject to
considerable uncertainty. A sudden readjustment
of expectations about the future trajectory of U.S.
interest rates could combine with domestic
fragilities and policy uncertainties in some
developing countries to generate financial stress.
Given the weak outlook and lingering
vulnerabilities in many developing countries, these
risks have the potential to be a source of damaging
sudden stops in capital flows in the most fragile
economies.