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Influencer marketing, once a wild frontier, is now a serious business. Brands are investing billions, but questions about results are growing. Creators are becoming media moguls, demanding professionalism and measurable outcomes. This shift brings complexity and a potential loss of authenticity. The industry faces a crucial moment, needing to adapt for future success.
How India-EU FTA could be a catalyst for green transition, amid trade chaos
The newly endorsed EUIndia Strategic Agenda has elevated the partnership between the worlds largest democracy and Europes economic powerhouse to a more ambitious level, especially on climate action and trade. With COP30 concluding and a renewed push for a Free Trade Agreement, both sides are seeking a stronger collaboration to decarbonise key heavy industriessteel, cement, and transportwhose emissions shape global climate trajectories.
100 bribery case highlights deep fault lines in Indias justice system
Indias justice system is under strain as delays, backlogs, and questions over judicial integrity erode public trust. A recent example is an 86-year-old former transport employee in Chhattisgarh who was acquitted of a 100 bribery charge after fighting the case for nearly four decades. Such prolonged pendency now exceeding 5 crore cases nationwide has turned litigation itself into punishment, affecting livelihoods and liberty.
GST cuts don't always cut prices. Here's why
Lower GST rates don't necessarily translate to cheaper prices for consumers. This discrepancy arises from the complexity of tax processes related to raw materials and services. If businesses can offset reduced input taxes against output taxes, it might actually lead to increased costs overall. As a result, customers may not enjoy the anticipated price drops for specific goods and services.
Facing a Republican rebellion, Trumpus Maximus has caved by signing the Epstein files' release
Donald Trump has taken a bold step by signing the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a directive mandating the Justice Department to unveil documents tied to the Epstein investigation. This action follows a decisive congressional vote and increasing demands for accountability, showcasing a turning point as Trump's popularity wanes and dissent simmers within the GOP.
Mumbai & Cape Town: A hopeful tale of two coastal cities
Mumbai and Cape Town, two major coastal cities, are facing rising climate risks and are pursuing long-term plans to strengthen resilience. Mumbai, which experiences frequent flooding and is highly exposed to rising sea levels, aims to be carbon neutral by 2050.
Why are veggie price fluctuations largely absent in the developed world?
The market for vegetables in India, especially onions and tomatoes, is characterized by harsh fluctuations that stem from a lack of global sourcing and effective food processing. Unlike their developed counterparts, who utilize stable international supply networks for consistent produce availability, Indian consumers and farmers are at the mercy of seasonal harvests and underdeveloped processing facilities.
India's 'approvals economy': Why businesses need fewer permissions and more trust
Indias shift to e-files has improved efficiency, but a deep-rooted approvals economy still slows business. Experts call for self-certification, fewer clearances, and a trust-based model to spur growth.
Gas pricing, pipeline to a free market
India's gas pricing is undergoing significant reform. A committee has recommended freeing up prices for certain gas fields and removing ceilings. This move aims to align domestic prices with global markets and encourage investment. The changes are expected to benefit consumers and producers alike. The government is moving towards a more market-driven approach for gas.
Shielding banks with the antiquated 'statutory liquidity ratio' only breeds complacency, abolish it
In light of India's ambitious growth targets, there is a compelling appeal for RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra to rethink the relevance of the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR). This antiquated rule compels financial institutions to allocate a significant portion of their resources to government debt, limiting their ability to invest in entrepreneurial ventures and other productive domains.
Why India needs a 'rejection culture': Calling out poor quality to build a truly viksit nation
The tragic loss of children due to tainted cough syrup underscores a glaring deficiency in our national quality standards. Across various sectors, from infrastructure to healthcare, a troubling complacency towards poor outcomes persists. This mindset of accepting mediocrity stifles our progress.
NDA's Bihar win solidifies GoI's position not to fall for the 'Asim Munir trap'
Under the leadership of Asim Munir, Pakistan's approach to terrorism seeks to bait India into a traditional conflict for survival. The Red Fort incident serves as a testament to this objective, while the results of the Bihar elections suggest a burgeoning stability in India, opening avenues for a strategic recalibration amid the changing geopolitical landscape.
Dems in disarray? Meet the GOP in rebellion
American politics is in the throes of substantial change. The Democratic Party is grappling with fierce disagreements that pit progressive ideals against centrist beliefs. On the flip side, the Republican Party is not merely a Trump stronghold anymore; it's experiencing a surge of independent thought and rebellion.
India's governance journey involves more than just removing rules. True reform means creating smart, risk-based regulations. This is crucial for sectors like railways, pharmaceuticals, and emerging technologies. Stronger laws are needed to foster competition, ensure predictability, and protect citizens. This approach builds trust and drives progress.
