Question 1

Which BRICS nation has experienced a significant increase in unemployment in early 2026, directly linked to the global energy crisis and ongoing Middle East conflict, impacting its economic recovery?

Accepted Answer

South Africa

Question 2

In response to global trade wars and geopolitical tensions, India is focusing on strengthening its domestic economy. Which of the following is a key strategy mentioned for enhancing India's resilience against external shocks?

Accepted Answer

Building resilient supply chains through domestic manufacturing of critical inputs

Question 3

The expansion of BRICS and its increased focus on local currency trade settlement is a direct challenge to dollar dominance. Which of the following BRICS initiatives directly supports this goal by providing alternative funding to Western institutions?

Accepted Answer

The New Development Bank (NDB)

Question 4

The Russia-Ukraine war has had a multifaceted impact on South Africa's business environment. Which commodity experienced a significant price increase between February 2024 and June 2024 due to the conflict?

Accepted Answer

Wheat

Question 5

China's strategic goal in supporting the expansion of BRICS is to create an influential bloc that could challenge Western dominance. Which of the following initiatives is a key platform China uses to advance this objective within BRICS?

Accepted Answer

The New Development Bank (NDB)

Question 6

Brazil's agricultural sector is a stabilizing segment of its economy. Despite global price declines for some commodities in 2024, Brazil's agricultural exports reached a significant value. Which country was Brazil's top export market for agribusiness products in 2025?

Accepted Answer

China

Question 7

India is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, aiming for a $1 trillion internet economy by 2030. What digital payment system has been instrumental in this transformation, processing over 15 billion transactions per month by November 2024?

Accepted Answer

UPI (Unified Payments Interface)

Question 8

Global energy shocks are significantly impacting South Africa. The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply transits, has faced disruptions due to the US-Iran conflict. This has led to a surge in Brent crude prices and has implications for which of the following South African economic indicators?

Accepted Answer

Fuel prices and inflation

BRICS Nations Under Pressure: Global Events Reshape Local Economies in 2025-2026

More Listen Mode Study Sets