Now for a look at the global manufacturing sector. Data from the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing show global manufacturing PMI stood at 55.9 percent in January, easing slightly from the previous month, but still at a relative high level.

The figure points to a strong global economic recovery. That will push up commodity prices and boost cross-border investment. Analysts expect global cross-border direct investment to reach 1.8 trillion US dollars this year. The IMF also revised up its outlook for economic growth in 2018 to 3.9 percent. But the organization also warned against potential challenges. They include trade protectionism and geo-political risks.