10 must-read economics stories of the week

A list of some of the week’s most interesting stories on economic growth and social inclusion

Facts and figures. A new app visualises city-level and other economic data across time. Below is a screenshot of the global centre of economic gravity, which after the First Industrial Revolution swung westward and now is once again heading east. (McKinsey Global Institute)

Speaking of cities. They have been an important growth motor for centuries. Now this growth seems to be running out of steam. (McKinsey Global Institute)

What precipitated the First Industrial Revolution? A new book suggests its origins lie in 15th Century Europe, providing insights into mastering the industrial revolution that is currently unfolding. (Nature)

Baby Bonds could boost inclusive growth by equipping newborns with seed capital. How would it work exactly? (INET)

Allowing one migrant to work in an advanced economy would boost their income more than the best anti-poverty programme we know of. (Center for Global Development)

Why migration is good for economies. (World Economic Forum)

What does the future of global economic prosperity have to do with 10-year-old girls? (UNFPA)

‘Second thoughts’ on the universal basic income scheme. (Bloomberg View)

FDI flows may have a smaller bearing on development than previously thought. This is because much of FDI actually looks more like portfolio (i.e. financial) flows and not like long-run investments into physical assets. (Conversable Economist)

Will oil prices re-bound? No, says the IMF. We’re in for a ‘new normal’. (iMF direct)