Autumn Statement amid global downturn and protests
The UK slipped back into recession after the Budget in March but the economy returned to growth again in the last quarter.
George Osborne is to deliver his Autumn Statement to House of Commons on Wednesday lunchtime amid a global economic downturn which may help shape some of his announcements.
The BBC looked back at scenes from around the globe across 2012 as many - but not all - nations struggle with their economies.
Coverage of the Autumn Statement will be on BBC Two and BBC News Chanel from 11:30 GMT and online. Tweet the BBC with the hashtag #bbceconomy and there's more news in text, audio and video on the BBC Autumn Statement Special index