The recession into which the Icelandic economy fell following the failure of the country’s three main banks in October 2008 continues. Domestic demand has fallen sharply, and the economy is projected to continue shrinking until early 2010. Thereafter, growth is projected to return, boosted initially by the expected normalisation of financial conditions and subsequently by investment in large energy-related projects. The unemployment rate is likely to rise to around 7% by mid-2010 and edge down thereafter. The government programme will help to narrow economic imbalances, with inflation falling to about 2½ per cent by 2011 and the current account deficit declining to 1½ per cent of GDP in 2011.