Since the mid-1990s, the world economy has expanded remarkably, propelled mainly by the introduction of advanced information and communication technologies. In fact, according to the IMF's recent World Economic Outlook, global output grew 3.4 percent in 1999 and is expected to accelerate to 4.7 percent this year.

Can we predict that trend will continue into 2001 and beyond?

In a period of such strong economic growth, the growing downside risks should not be overlooked.