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The start of a new financial year prompts reflection on both professional and personal goals. Considering a countdown approach to age, starting from an assumed lifespan and decreasing each year, could alter our perception of time and encourage us to prioritize meaningful achievements in our finite lives.
India's love affair with binary betting: From stock gains to IPL odds, it's all a gamble
Opinion Trading is gaining currency by the day as investors are flocking to these platforms after the F&O crackdown. They are also weaning traffic away from fantasy leagues and real money games. These VC backed platforms thrive in an environment of zero regulations. With Rs 50,000 crore of annual volumes, these off-exchange opinion trading is nothing short of hardcore alternatives to spread bets. SEBI should intervene at the earliest .
Aurangzebra is Zzz, say hi to Aurangutan
India's fascination with the extinct aurangzebra, extinct since 1707, contrasts with the world's focus on innovation and economic growth driven by living animals. Social media debates about aurangzebras' ecological impact spark controversy. Bollywood may exploit this interest, while normal zebras remain unimpressed. It's suggested that attention shift to the also-extinct aurangutan.
The 'China in the World' podcast episode explores China's economic and strategic interests in Myanmar, focusing on the 2,000 km shared border, investments, and stance on the civil war. Academics discuss the cybercrime industry and Beijing's influence in shaping Myanmar's future.
India should treat Liberation Day for US trade as means to free its own domestic economy
Donald Trump's reciprocal tariffs on US imports start today, pressuring countries to lower their trade barriers. Despite ongoing negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement, India must respond by boosting domestic competitiveness and strategically leveraging the opportunity to reform and support crucial sectors such as MSMEs.
Trumps trade tactics: Will tariffs rewrite global economic rules?
Donald Trumps aggressive tariff policies are reshaping global trade, challenging free-market principles. While India remains unfazed, history shows tariffs have long been used as economic weapons, from Roosevelts gold seizure to Nixons trade shock. With Chinas trade tactics and US deficits in focus, Trumps approach echoes past protectionist moves, raising concerns over economic stability and global trade shifts.
Where there's a will, the way is clearer
Ratan Tata's foresight in succession planning has ensured continuity and stability in his conglomerate, benefiting investors and strengthening management control. While many organisations lack such preparedness, the Tata example highlights the importance of robust succession plans and executive development to create effective 'CEO factories'.
Can India become a global leader in AI & quantum computing by 2047?
India is poised to leverage AI, quantum computing, and semiconductors for significant economic growth. To achieve this, India must enhance its R&D investments, attract global academic talent, and focus on advancing deep-tech initiatives while addressing the current disparity in intellectual property commercialization.
Human absurdity surpasses boundaries and is often manifested through actions that jeopardize fellow beings. Despite being gifted with sense and prudence, humanity continues to embrace irrational behaviours, ultimately leading to self-destruction. The prevalence of widespread imprudence highlights our collective foolishness.
Fission for compliments: Remove nuclear liability hurdles before seeking NSG membership
India plans to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act 2010 and Atomic Energy Act 1962 to allow private sector involvement in nuclear energy. This follows a history of stringent regulations that deterred international companies. Recent developments with the US signify renewed nuclear cooperation, aiming for decarbonisation and energy-intensive projects in India.
Under the eye of the big bird by Hiromi Kawakami
A woman reflects on her love for her tall, generously built husband who works at a high-standard factory on the city outskirts. Despite technology being identical in all regional factories, she believes the workers' skill might affect the product's quality. Her feelings for her husband bring her both relief and a hint of unease.
What's a fact but a 2nd-hand emotion?
Facts are deemed irrelevant as emotions and beliefs take precedence. The modern trend favors opinions and feelings over research, verification, and objective truths. This shift promotes a carefree attitude where evidence and data are disregarded, fostering a culture where passion outweighs factual accuracy. Welcome to a world where feelings are the new facts.
States, step up in pollution mitigation
India's environment ministry has utilized less than 1% of the 858 crore allocated for a key pollution control scheme as of late FY25. Despite ambitious targets for improving air quality, water quality, and noise pollution, chronic underutilization of funds and governance issues hinder progress.
IPO allotment quotas don't need tinkering
Investment banks are urging Sebi to reduce the retail investors' IPO quota, arguing it affects price discovery. However, retail participation depends on market conditions, and robust institutional interest ensures IPO success despite weak retail demand. Encouraging wider retail participation remains crucial.
Long-term private equity investors offer business communities valuable insights, such as leveraging market intel and focusing on key financial metrics. Emphasizing versatile management, separating cyclical from secular trends, and recognizing self-generated risks are crucial for sustainable growth and adaptation in dynamic market conditions.
Eric Clapton's 'The Call': A soulful reflection
Eric Clapton's heartfelt song 'The Call' blends blues, rock, and gospel influences to recount themes of redemption and connection. His guitar work stands out with expressive subtleties, and the lyrics convey a poignant message about the persistence of the past.
'Mirza Ghibli' and its arty discontents
Some people are expressing outrage over ChatGPT's new 'Studio Ghibli' image filter, arguing it disrespects the legacy of the renowned animation studio. Despite the controversy, Studio Ghibli has denied issuing a 'cease and desist' letter against the filter. The debate seems rooted more in elitism than genuine concern for art.
A new star in the AI constellation
Elon Musk's xAI acquiring X for $33 billion showcases the integration of AI with social media. This deal aims to use AI models to enhance content delivery, crucial for both profitability and data acquisition for xAI's chatbot. As competition heats up from other AI ventures and rivals in the automotive sector, Musk faces challenges ahead.
US tariff threat on Indian generics: What it means for pharma
Tariffs on Indian generics could raise US drug prices, disrupt supply chains, and strain insurance systems. Indian firms, reliant on US revenue, may adapt by focusing on APIs and high-margin segments. Strategic partnerships could mitigate impacts, positioning them competitively in the global market.
No one's above the law- not even judges
The Supreme Court's handling of Justice Yashwant Varma's case, involving large amounts of unaccounted cash found at his residence, raises concerns about judicial accountability and due process. The top court's cautious approach and decision to wait for an in-house inquiry may impact public trust in the judiciary, highlighting the need for transparency and stringent judicial standards.
At Banaras, Ganga shares its happy dins
Attending the Maha Kumbh, the author experienced its spiritual significance despite logistical challenges. From the holy dip at Prayagraj to Banaras' intellectual atmosphere, the event highlighted various spiritual practices and sadhus' traditions. Acts of kindness and the differing attitudes toward spirituality were evident, showcasing the diversity in worship and the universal acceptance at the Ganga's ghats.
How Mamata Banerjee can get real investment and make Bengal great again
West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's trip to London aimed at attracting investments was marred by a fire at Heathrow, coinciding with her arrival. The article discusses her efforts to rebrand herself and her state as investment-friendly despite past controversies. Her attempt to persuade British Airways to restore direct London-Kolkata flights remains uncertain.
Oh taxman, clean up my inbox while you snoop?
The new Income-Tax bill of 2025 proposes to modernise tax laws by allowing tax officers full access to citizens' emails, social media, and cloud storage. This has raised concerns about privacy infringement and its implications for the middle class, who are already conscientious taxpayers.
A businessman attempts to check hotel rooms with a 5,000 note; the money circulates through the town's debts but ultimately returns to him before he leaves, illustrating how government stimulus packages work. In another scenario, a businessman pays 5 lakh for simple consulting advice to 'raise prices.'
Riding the global tidal wave: How India can turn challenges into opportunities for economic growth
Today's global landscape faces unprecedented disruptions with protectionism and technological advancements altering trade and policies. For India, this shifting environment presents an opportunity to enhance its core strengths, build resilience and encourage innovation. Effective policy implementation and strategic investments are crucial for navigating and thriving amid these global changes.
It may be most effective to 'soak' one's mind in calm acceptance of the past, while learning from errors and mistakes, and times when one suffered from other's actions. Apologising and making amends to those whom one has hurt and a sincere resolve to improve oneself can remove stains of residual emotions.
Flight of fancy? Kol, a global aviation hub?
Mamata Banerjee's call to restart direct Kolkata-London flights holds promise, but a more concerted effort is needed. Positioned well, Kolkata could become a key international aviation hub, complementing Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Currently serving major hubs like Dubai and Singapore, enhancing Kolkata's capacity is crucial, especially if ties with China improve, ramping up two-way traffic.
Kill bill stress and red tape in hospitals
The Government of India is introducing a standardised hospital billing format to tackle billing chaos and insurance red tape. Developed by BIS and the health ministry, this initiative ensures itemised billing for every service and consumable. Triggered by a questionnaire, this move aims for transparency, fairness, and better communication between hospitals and insurers.
No villainous Indians please, we're Indian
A foreign film depicting shady Indian businessmen? Naturally, all Indian CEOs will take offence. An SF flick features a mad Indian scientist accidentally unleashing mutant sloths upon humanity? Cue protests from the Indian scientist community, demanding respect. Villains in foreign films can no longer be Indian lawyers (shady courtroom dramas), Indian journalists (scandal-ridden exposes), or Indian teachers ('mean principal' cliches).
India wants to host the 2036 OlympicsWill the IOCs first female chief Kirsty Coventry play ball?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced interest in bidding for the 2036 Olympics at the IOC session in Mumbai. Kirsty Coventry has been appointed as the first female president of the IOC, succeeding Thomas Bach in June 2024 and faces challenges including sports controversies and geopolitical issues.
Svadharm emphasizes self-reliance, interconnectedness, and adhering to one's own path while being compassionate and following ahimsa. It promotes authentic living and personal development, transcending religious boundaries. Following one's svadharm aligns with one's true self and contributes to the welfare of humanity, as highlighted by thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and teachings in the Gita.
The Trump administration's revocation of $400 million in federal research funding to Columbia University has triggered a lawsuit by academic groups. They accuse the government of using financial leverage to suppress free speech and campus autonomy. This move highlights broader tensions over university independence and political interference in American higher education.
Never mind that the chikki has a tendency to leave a small souvenir or two behind. It turns out that the chikki isn't as brittle as the old filling was, leading to the destination of the dentist who will solemnly issue his or her decree: 'No more hard stuff.'
Conning the conman, a Singh case study
Bhupendra Singh from Kanpur outwitted a scamster claiming to be a 'CBI officer' who tried to blackmail him. Instead of paying the demanded 16k, Singh tricked the fraudster into sending him 10k by spinning convincing stories. Singh's ingenuity turned the tables, highlighting creative thinking in scam prevention.
Indias Hyperloop leap: The future of ultra-high-speed travel begins now
India is making strides in ultra-high-speed rail (UHSR) with the development of a hyperloop test track. This new technology aims to significantly reduce travel times and energy consumption. While there are challenges related to infrastructure costs and safety concerns, successful trials could disrupt various industries, including aviation, rail, and urban planning.
Most of India is still ATMnirbhar
Higher ATM interchange fees have been introduced by RBI to slow the decline in the number of ATMs and improve their profitability. This policy aims to stabilize ATM availability, particularly in rural areas, while promoting cashless transactions by maintaining limits on free transactions.
How a standalone ministry of manufacturing and supply chains could do the trick for India
India is negotiating seven bilateral trade agreements, prioritising the US for strategic reasons amidst fluctuating global trade dynamics. These pacts aim to bolster India's economic position, addressing both market and manufacturing challenges, with the outcomes impacting India's external strategy significantly.
Save Indian football, tap our OCI talent
Indian football is facing a crisis, highlighted by the recent dismal performance against Bangladesh. The potential exit of Reliance-owned FSDL from ISL exacerbates the situation. The inclusion of Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) in the national team is suggested to improve performance and address the lack of talent.
