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A new geopolitical schism emerges from the US-Israel war on Iran, impacting Asian economies' energy supplies. India, China, Japan, and South Korea face supply chain challenges. Diversification and derisking are crucial for these nations. India must align with Gulf countries' strategies and explore domestic coal gasification. Access to resources in crises will define future success.
Rent an adviser, boards: How firms can tap bureaucrats wisdom without boardroom conflicts
Former government officials and regulators are increasingly joining private companies. This practice raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest and undue influence. While their expertise is valuable, the article questions the ethics of their transition. Some companies may seek influence rather than genuine insight. Advisory roles or amended service rules are suggested as alternatives to ensure integrity and transparency.
GST states quo won't do: Post-GST revenue divide widens across India
New CAG data reveals states are diverging in fiscal health post-GST. Some states are effectively building revenue capacity, while others are not. GST has boosted state tax revenues, but fiscal strength now hinges on non-tax revenues and asset monetisation. States that strengthen these areas will enhance autonomy. Those that do not face increasing dependence.
Measures to address the war's fallout lie outside MPC's remit - GoI and RBI must step up
The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee meets amid a West Asian war. This conflict disrupts supply chains and raises crude oil prices. Inflation is rising while growth shows signs of slowing. The committee must navigate these challenges. The government and RBI are taking steps to manage the rupee's depreciation. Future economic projections will be crucial.
Voted Out: When EC ghosts you before you reach the booth
A voter in West Bengal found her name missing from the electoral rolls. She suspects this is part of a government effort to identify infiltrators. The voter, a long-time resident of Kolkata, is disheartened by this exclusion. She expresses frustration over the lack of communication from the Election Commission. This situation prevents her from participating in the upcoming state elections.
Artemis II may chase Planet B, but the real fix for Earth does not lie in escaping it
Humans are exploring space for a new home. However, a radical idea suggests shrinking people to solve Earth's resource problems. Smaller humans would consume less food, energy, and space. This could drastically reduce pollution and financial burdens. While the transition would be challenging, markets would adapt. This concept offers a compelling alternative to leaving our current planet.
How Patna pegs people to become Darudevils, making safe drinking prohibitionary
Bihar's strict prohibition has created a black market for alcohol. Whisky prices have quadrupled, with quality control a major concern. The poor face increased risks of methanol poisoning. The article suggests official liquor sales could generate revenue and jobs. It highlights the irony of secrecy and furtiveness surrounding drinking in Patna.
When fear outpaces fundamentals: Why RBIs signal matters more than rates
India faces geopolitical turbulence despite strong economic fundamentals. The Reserve Bank of India's upcoming policy decision is crucial. Rising inflation and potential growth slowdown present challenges. The central bank must manage uncertainty, avoid premature tightening, and focus on domestic stability. Clear communication on currency management is vital to counter market fears and reinforce India's underlying economic strengths.
Indias next reform push must target cost of doing business
India faces high business costs impacting competitiveness. Addressing credit, land, input, logistics, and compliance expenses is crucial. Benchmarking against nations like Vietnam and China offers a path forward. Lowering these costs will drive capacity expansion, boost exports, and create formal jobs. This is essential for sustained economic growth.
Seat fees are not the real problem
India's aviation regulator has paused a directive mandating free seat selection for 60% of seats, opting for a broader review. This decision acknowledges airlines' need for ancillary revenue to offset high operational costs and fund expansion, while also considering passenger concerns about fairness and transparency in pricing.
Why a new world order is overdue
A powerful cabal, the Military-Industrial-Congress complex, influences US policy. This group, along with technology, finance, and Israel lobbies, drives global conflict. The article argues that removing one president will not solve the issue. Instead, it calls for BRICS+ nations to build a new world order for global peace and development.
Why fixing Indias export machinery is key to hitting the $2 trillion goal
India aims for $2 trillion in exports by 2030. Current growth is slow, and global market share is small. The country faces challenges in export geography and product diversity. A new strategy is proposed. It includes a unified trade facilitation agency, increased investment in trade fairs, and large sector-specific exhibitions.
CFO brogues on ground in war room as West Asia war bites
India faces severe economic challenges from West Asian conflicts. Oil imports are disrupted, the Rupee has fallen, and foreign investors are withdrawing funds. Traditional business plans are now invalid. Chief Financial Officers must become 'bridge officers', actively adapting business models. This requires building strong buffers against potential supply chain failures and market freezes.
Kamikaze from Mar-a-Lago: Despite all the death and destruction, it's Advantage Iran
Iran war: Tehran had the capacity to set the region alight and squeeze the global economy. Now even more so after years of preparation and Chinese help. Trump is finding out the hard way, as is Pete Hegseth, his secretary of war and hardcore Christian nationalist.
Indian private credit is not facing the same issues as the US. US private credit stress stems from fund architecture, not bad loans. India's market uses closed-end funds with fixed tenures, avoiding maturity mismatches. Investor participation is limited to institutions and high-net-worth individuals. Financing focuses on real economic growth, not tech sector leverage. This offers global investors a stable alternative.
What Census 2027 will reveal about the country weve become
India's Census 2027, launched April 1, is a crucial exercise. It will assess the nation's socioeconomic transformation since 2011. The census will inform political power, welfare, and federalism. It includes caste enumeration for the first time since Independence. This count will reveal if India's growth is broad-based and if progress has been equitable.
