The Economic Times

Indian companies are increasingly making bold acquisitions abroad. Sun Pharma's deal signals a new era of deliberate empire-building. This shift from tentative deals to strategic bets is crucial for global relevance. Successful acquisitions require clear intent, respect for acquired assets, integration discipline, financial courage, and a long-term mindset.

Indian companies are focusing on growth in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, known as Bharat. However, their boardrooms do not reflect this market. Boards are dominated by individuals from tier-1 cities. This disconnect impacts strategy. Companies need directors with experience in these markets. This inclusion is vital for future success and competitive advantage. Bharat deserves a seat at the boardroom table.

The piece argues that AI is not an inevitable force shaping economic outcomes; rather, societies decide how its benefits are distributed. Historical lessons from the Industrial Revolution show that productivity gains do not automatically lead to shared prosperity without deliberate policy action.

India is being left behind in understanding advanced AI threats. Anthropic's new AI model, Mythos, is being tested by select global organizations, excluding India. This creates a significant information gap for Indian regulators and financial institutions. Early access is crucial for developing effective cyber defences against future AI-augmented attacks.

Global events like the West Asia conflict and El Nino threaten governments. Rising fertilizer prices create a fiscal and political crisis for India. The nation faces a future scarcity fear, leading to panic buying. Bold agricultural policy is needed to reduce fertilizer reliance. This will optimize usage and ensure food security for the future.

The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Act 2026 has formally settled Amaravati as the states capital, ending years of political uncertainty over the citys status, according to a research-based analysis.

America faces a deluge of crises. Protests erupt, yet public response wanes due to 'compassion fatigue'. Airstrikes, immigration agent shootings, economic instability, and government failures overwhelm citizens. This constant stream of shocking events numbs people, disconnecting their feelings from action.

The Reserve Bank of India has eased branch opening rules for NBFCs. This move helps gold loan NBFCs expand their reach. It allows them to provide timely credit to small businesses, farmers, and households. This reform strengthens India's credit architecture. It supports inclusive growth and economic momentum. Access to credit is crucial for these segments.

Corporate and social sector boards face governance challenges. Recent events highlight the need for competent, diverse, and cohesive boards. Failures in oversight have led to scandals and organizational collapse. Non-profit boards often lack engagement and regulatory knowledge. Training and careful selection of members are crucial for effective governance and organizational well-being.

A planned visit to Astana's Expo 2017 site, featuring the Nur Alem museum, faced an unexpected challenge. Despite clear skies, the extreme cold of -24C proved too much for the visitors. They sought immediate warmth, abandoning their exploration of the futuristic energy and science museum. The experience highlighted the harsh reality of a Kazakh winter.

Voter lists in West Bengal have seen many names removed. This has caused anger and accusations of conspiracy. Many believe this is a deliberate attempt to disenfranchise voters. However, the author suggests this is due to administrative errors. The process has affected millions across India. The focus remains on the upcoming Kolkata vote.

Iran's rich history and cultural contributions are highlighted. Ancient Persia boasted advanced civilizations. Iranian language and cinema have deeply influenced India. Iconic dishes and influential figures originate from Iran. The nation's legacy extends globally, shaping art, culture, and everyday life for many.

The Mary Jane shoe, traditionally viewed as a practical choice, has undergone a stylish transformation. Now, it embodies a blend of sophisticated design and all-day comfort, pivotal in redefining contemporary attire. This evolution echoes the shifting landscape of formal fashion, where the boundaries between elegance and ease blur.

Elon Musk plans Terafab to meet AI's massive energy needs. This venture involves building chips and generating power in space. Other companies seek conventional solutions. Musk's ambitious plan faces engineering and cost challenges. Success could reshape the semiconductor industry and AI infrastructure globally. This initiative promises significant advancements.

The Supreme Court is set to decide if tax authorities can issue a single show-cause notice for multiple financial years. This procedural issue impacts how tax exposure is assessed and litigated, with potential to aggregate liabilities and blur limitation boundaries. The court will determine if the CGST Act permits composite proceedings across years or mandates year-by-year liability initiation.

Recent global events, particularly the Iran conflict, have highlighted the continued reliance on hydrocarbons, pushing back EV targets and encouraging new oil and gas exploration. Challenges with renewable energy storage and grid infrastructure, alongside the high cost of alternatives like green hydrogen, are leading to a renewed focus on gas and nuclear power to ensure energy security.

India aims for Viksit Bharat by 2047 but faces risks from imported fossil fuels. A shift to clean energy is crucial for economic stability and global standing. The nation is already making progress in non-fossil power sources and green hydrogen. Accelerating this transition, focusing on storage and firm clean power, is vital for energy sovereignty and achieving developed-country status.

A proposed change to Lok Sabha seats and issues with voter roll revisions raise concerns. Independent institutions, like the Election Commission, are seen as acting with discretion. This pattern of unilateral rule-setting weakens democratic competition. Millions of citizens now question the fairness of upcoming polls.

India faces a job creation challenge as millions enter the workforce. The nation needs to support entrepreneurship in key sectors like infrastructure and healthcare. Focusing solely on tech startups is a narrow view. Building strong domestic companies serving local demand is crucial for sustained growth. This requires patient development and policy support for traditional businesses.

Today's consumers are embracing a more sustainable mindset, steering clear of throwaway items in favor of possessions that stand the test of time. They are prioritizing quality and longevity over low-cost, frequent transactions. This trend shines brightly in the world of jewellery, where many are choosing to invest in a smaller number of exquisite pieces.

Noida factory workers protest: Years of rising costs have diminished buying power, creating widespread discontent among many. Wage growth lags behind essential expenses like education and healthcare. This disparity fuels resentment and impacts household finances. Addressing these structural issues is crucial for inclusive growth and social stability.