Did you know? Global South

The term Global South refers broadly to emerging and developing countries, mostly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. First used in the 1960s, the term gained wider prominence in the 1980s through the Brandt Report, which highlighted the stark divide in wealth and development between the industrialised ‘North’ and the poorer ‘South.’

The rise of the Global South has been one of the most important structural shifts in the global economy. Countries like China, India, Brazil, Vietnam, and Indonesia have grown rapidly through industrialisation, urbanisation, and export-led development. As labour-intensive manufacturing moved out of developed markets, many Global South economies became key players in global supply chains — offering cheaper inputs, faster growth, and rising consumer demand.

For investors, the Global South presents both opportunity and complexity. These economies often boast younger populations, improving governance, and stronger long-term growth prospects than many ageing developed markets. But they also carry risks, including political instability, currency volatility, and weaker institutions.