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Beyond tariffs: Reforms India needs to seize the global economic moment
Amidst global economic fragmentation and trade tensions, India faces an opportunity to enhance its competitiveness. The nation must prioritize regulatory reforms, unlock investments, and attract global capital and talent. By focusing on tourism and empowering cities, India can leverage its strengths to become a dynamic growth leader, requiring bold action and decisive reforms.
Trade with Trump is about his local political interests and little about strategic ties
The United States, under President Trump, is prioritizing its domestic interests in trade negotiations. This approach is creating friction with India. Trade talks are stalled over issues like soya imports and tariffs. Trump's focus on his support base and disregard for strategic considerations complicate matters. Despite trade tensions, other aspects of the US-India relationship remain strong. Future negotiations are uncertain.
Trumpland: What if the world turned trade war back on America?
President Trump imposed a 25% levy on Indian goods. This is coupled with penalties for India's oil and defence purchases from Russia. The US trade deficit is high. The US relies on imports for essential goods. Tariffs are eroding household income and slowing growth. The article proposes a coordinated pause in shipments to the US by major exporters.
An informal economic school in India, SoBo-BKC, advocates for consistent interest rate cuts, even when inflation metrics are skewed by base effects. Despite robust economic indicators, they persist in this stance, overlooking the upward creep in core inflation. The current measured approach of maintaining the status quo allows the system to respond to prior rate cuts.
India vs Trump: Three choices and a teachable moment
Donald Trump's tariff threats put India in a tough spot. The US President targets India with import duties. India faces three choices. It can do nothing and bear the export decline. It can fight alongside the EU and China. Or, it can rethink its protectionist policies. The author suggests India should dismantle tariffs to boost its economy.
Indias FDI dilemma: Balancing sovereignty and investment
Indias investment posture reflects a conflicted identity aspiring to global economic leadership while retreating from the very frameworks that sustain foreign investor confidence.
India's employment challenge isn't just about creating more jobs, but about making them secure
Despite India's impressive economic growth, a Reuters poll highlights that quality job creation remains a critical challenge. A PRICE survey reveals widespread worker dissatisfaction, primarily due to insufficient income and lack of social security, even among salaried employees. The focus must shift from mere job numbers to ensuring secure, fairly paid employment with long-term economic stability.
A Reuters report questioning the accuracy of India's unemployment data sparked a debate, with the government issuing a rebuttal. The article suggests improvements in media reporting, expert participation, and government response to foster constructive dialogue. It emphasizes transparency and balanced information to maintain public trust in economic data.
Par for the Trump golf course: Tariffs rising, tempers simmering, its time for a round with Donald
Indias trying a new playbook with Trump: golf. With trade talks stalled and phone calls dodged, a high-stakes golf tournament at Trumps Bedminster club will bring together CEOs, powerbrokers and political names, hoping a few holes can open diplomatic doors. But Trump wants cash and concessions, not charm. As Pakistan lobbies hard and tariffs loom, Indias teeing up influence with CEOs and caviar. Whether the ball moves or just lands in the bunker is anyones guess.
There is a Trump deal within the trade deal, which is making things tricky
India's trade deal negotiations with the US face hurdles as the White House shifts its demands, seeking a comprehensive Phase 1 agreement before any signing. Trump's focus on a single overall tariff figure, like the EU's 15%, complicates matters given India's higher tariff structure. Securing win-win opportunities and addressing Trump's commercial agenda are crucial for progress.
Massive AI missions have an invisible toll on the environment
AI's increasing integration brings immense potential, but its environmental cost, including carbon emissions and water consumption, is often overlooked. Efforts like 'Green AI' aim to reduce this impact through efficiency improvements and infrastructure upgrades. Transparency and mindful usage are crucial for mitigating AI's hidden footprint, promoting sustainability in its development and deployment.
India, China's prickly relationship is undergoing subtle changes
India has resumed tourist visas for Chinese citizens after five years. This decision follows a meeting between S Jaishankar and Wang Yi. Direct flights between India and China are expected to resume soon. There are indications of subtle changes in the relationship. China has issued many visas to Indians recently.
India's derivatives boom raises eyebrows
India's derivatives market boom sparks concerns. Experts debate if it's gambling or efficient capital transfer. Uday Kotak and Sebi highlight risks for small investors. The Jane Street case shows manipulation. Sebi aims to boost cash equities. Lowering trading costs and easing regulations are key. Tax adjustments and margin rule updates are suggested. The goal is affordable speculation and market depth.
What do these kids even want? A five-course lament on Gen Z over dinner and despair
Over a multi-course dinner, Gen X and Y professionals debated Gen Z's work ethic, relationships, and emotional resilience. They contrasted their own tougher upbringings with Gen Z's perceived need for constant validation and safe spaces. The conversation evolved into self-diagnosis, revealing their own struggles with vulnerability and communication, ultimately questioning if each generation is destined to misunderstand the next.
How to kick up a fuss to push for self-censorship
India's entertainment scene grapples with censorship, spotlighting films like 'Santosh' and 'Punjab '95' that challenge powerful establishments. 'J.S.K,' a legal thriller, faced CBFC hurdles over perceived religious sensitivities, despite featuring a union minister. While filmmakers increasingly self-censor, pushback emerges from Tamil and Malayalam industries, signaling a broader struggle against restrictive forces.
Ozzy was the prince of excess, and what a heavy, heaving, R&B life he lived
The article contrasts Gen Ozzy, known for embracing excess, with Gen Z, which favors moderation. Ozzy Osbourne's rebellious persona and music are highlighted. His outrageous acts, like biting a bat's head, are discussed. The article explores the appeal of Ozzy's music, citing tracks like 'Supernaut' and 'Crazy Train'. It concludes that Gen Ozzy admires Ozzy's wildness, even while embracing moderation.
Can classroom seating break the frontbench-backbench divide?
Inspired by a Malayalam movie, some Indian schools are experimenting with U-shaped seating to bridge the gap between front and backbenchers. While some educators believe this fosters inclusivity, others worry about losing the unique perspectives and creative flexibility found in traditional classroom setups.
