What are the top 10 most impactful economic policies introduced worldwide this year?

It is challenging to rank the top 10 most impactful economic policies introduced worldwide this year, as their impact can vary depending on specific country contexts and different perspectives. However, here are ten notable policies that have had significant global economic impact in 2021:

1. COVID-19 Stimulus Packages: Governments worldwide introduced massive stimulus packages to mitigate the economic fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including direct payments to individuals, job support programs, and assistance for businesses.

2. Vaccination Campaigns: Extensive vaccination campaigns launched by governments globally have helped combat the COVID-19 pandemic and revive economic activity, leading to increased consumer confidence and investment.

3. Infrastructure Investments: Several countries, including the United States, have proposed or implemented large-scale infrastructure investment plans to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance long-term productivity.

4. Green Recovery Initiatives: Increased focus on sustainable and climate-friendly policies has accelerated worldwide. Green recovery plans aim to invest in renewable energy, promote energy efficiency, and transition to low-carbon economies.

5. Digital Taxation Reforms: Many countries have started implementing or proposed reforms to tax digital services and multinational technology companies, aiming to ensure fair taxation of digital transactions and reduce tax avoidance.

6. Global Minimum Corporate Tax: The agreement on a global minimum corporate tax rate (15%) reached by the G7 and G20 countries aims to prevent multinational corporations from shifting profits to low-tax jurisdictions, ensuring a more equitable tax system.

7. Trade Policy Revisions: The Biden administration’s review of trade policies, such as reassessing tariffs, re-engagement with global institutions, and pursuing trade agreements, has had international implications for countries involved in trade with the United States.

8. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): Several central banks have accelerated research and exploration of CBDCs, aiming to enhance financial inclusion, payment systems efficiency, and potentially reshape monetary policies.

9. Employment Support Programs: Governments introduced various employment support schemes, such as wage subsidies, temporary layoffs, and job training initiatives, to address unemployment challenges resulting from the pandemic.

10. Social Safety Nets Expansion: Many governments expanded social safety net programs, including cash transfers, enhanced unemployment benefits, and healthcare support, to alleviate the socio-economic impact of the pandemic on vulnerable populations.

These policies represent a snapshot of some of the significant global economic developments in 2021. Nonetheless, the specific impact they hold can vary from country to country and may continue to evolve in the future.