It is difficult to illustrate all the risks posed to the global economy. Nevertheless, the World Economic Forum has given it a go. As this chart shows, there are numerous dangers facing the global economy – from corruption, weapons of mass destruction to climate change.

The chart, which features in WEF's sixth edition of Global Risks 2011, shows the probability of an event happening (y-axis) vs. the event's severity (x-axis). The biggest causes for concerns therefore include fiscal crises and energy price volatility, while issues such as a slowing Chinese economy are seen as not as likely, but potentially catastrophic if allowed to happen. Non-financial issues such as water security also loom as significant threats.