Top Executives Express Economic Pessimism at Saudi Arabia Summit, Citing Middle East Conflicts

Top executives convened in Saudi Arabia expressed pessimism about the global economy this year, citing ongoing Middle East conflicts as a major concern.

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink said wars breed societal despair, leading to economic contractions.

Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser said it's hard not to be pessimistic given the recent terrorist attack in Israel.

Goldman Sachs' David Solomon warned about uncertain markets for M&A deals.

JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon was cautious about economic forecasts from central banks being so wrong over the past 18 months.