Norway

GDP growth: 1.3%
GDP: $486bn (PPP: $290bn)
Inflation:1.8%
Population: 5.0m
GDP per head: $96,940 (PPP: $57,800)

The left-leaning government coalition survived a wobble in 2011; although divisions persist, it will see out its term, pursuing reforms in health care and education, the environment and job creation. The most divisive issue is the tension between exploration and conservation off the northern coast, where oil and fishing are drivers of the economy. The budget is in surplus, a European rarity, and the economy will manage to grow.

To watch: Cool jazz. The Ice Music festival, featuring only instruments made from local ice, will take place in February. All performances are held in the chilly late hours to preserve perfect pitch.