BUSINESS ECONOMICS - March 1-31, 2025

India's Stance on Chinese Investments: A Strategic, Not Just Economic, Decision

India has imposed restrictions on Chinese investments, a move driven not only by economic considerations but also by national security concerns and geopolitical realities.

Bengal Global Business Summit 2025: Investment hopes amid economic challenges

The Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS) was held in Kolkata on February 5th and 6th, 2025.

Future of US-India Bilateral Trade: Outcome of discussions between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi

Re-elected after a four-year break, President Donald Trump returned to White House and signed series of executive orders on his Inauguration Day, January 20, 2025.

TACKLING INFLATION

India's retail inflation stood at 4.31 percent in January, marking a five-month low and a crucial moment in economic policy.

INCOME TAX REFORMS

The new Income Tax Bill aims to streamline taxation by using simpler language and reducing the number of sections. Replacing the complex 1961 Act is a welcome move.

India needs Development Finance Institutions: Bridging the gap for MSMEs

India's economic landscape has long been fueled by the vigor of its small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which contribute significantly to GDP and employment. However, a glaring void in the financial ecosystem threatens their ability to scale and thrive. This gap lies in the absence of robust development finance institutions (DFIs) that cater specifically to medium enterprises as they outgrow micro-level operations but are yet to reach the stature of large corporations.

"DAVA INDIA has revolutionized the Indian healthcare landscape by making high-quality generic medicines"

Q 1. How is Zota Healthcare & Davaindia different from its competitors in the market?

India needs Development Finance Institutions: Bridging the Gap for MSMEs

India's economic landscape has long been driven by the dynamism of its micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a crucial role in contributing to GDP and employment.

Of Benchmarks & Benefits

Banks use various benchmark rates to determine loan pricing. Initially, they had complete discretion over interest rates, leading to the adoption of the Prime Lending Rate (PLR). This internally determined rate was applied to the bank’s most creditworthy customers, with additional risk premiums charged for borrowers deemed riskier. However, this system resulted in a wide disparity in interest rates among borrowers.

Rate cut to boost demand, says RBI Report

On February 19, 2025, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its monthly bulletin, providing insights into the state of the economy.

Colgate Palmolive (India) Ltd

Colgate-Palmolive India Limited (CPIL), a leading consumer goods company in India, is renowned for its dental care, personal care, home care, and pet nutrition products.

Budget 25-26: FM cuts middle class tax burden, aims at consumption-led growth

The Budget focuses on agricultural growth, with initiatives like a Makhana Board, National Mission for High Yielding Seeds, Cotton Productivity Mission, enhanced Kisan Credit Cards, urea plant expansion, and sustainable fisheries development to benefit farmers and boost production.

Some schemes welcomed, but real allocation declines

In the Annual Budget, the Finance Minister allocated ₹1.37 lakh crore to the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, compared to ₹ 1.32 lakh crore in the previous budget.

MSME Sector: Focus on credit allocation, but many issues remain unaddressed

The Budget 2025-26 primarily emphasizes credit facilities, revised classification, and targeted support for first-time entrepreneurs.

MSME Sector: Focus on credit allocation, but many issues remain unaddressed

Fiscal analysis of the Budget 2025

On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025, marking her eighth budget presentation. This budget outlined key strategies for taxation, government expenditure, and economic growth for the fiscal year 2025-26 amidst significant economic challenges. Despite only a six-month gap between her seventh and eighth budgets, the Indian economy has faced major hurdles during this period.

Mia by Tanishq partners with Swiggy Instamart to deliver in 10 minutes

Mia by Tanishq, one of India's trendiest precious fine jewellery brands, announces its collaboration with Swiggy Instamart, marking its entry into the burgeoning quick commerce space.

Sajjan Jindal, JSW Group Chairman receives 'Business Leader of the Decade' award

Sajjan Jindal, JSW Group Chairman, has been conferred with the coveted 'Business Leader of the Decade' honour at the 15th AIMA Managing India Awards, in recognition of his transformative leadership in expanding JSW Group into a global conglomerate.

Falta Special Economic Zone : it's contribution in the overall socio-economic development of the region

Falta Special Economic Zone (earlier Falta Export Processing Zone) was set up by the Department of Commerce, Government of India in 1984. The Zonal Office of Development Commissioner, Falta SEZ has jurisdiction over the 12 states of West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. BE spoke to Deen Bandhu Singh, Development Commissioner, Falta Special Economic Zone about the current scenario and the impact of the Falta SEZ. Falta Special Economic Zone (earlier Falta Export Processing Zone) was set up by the Department of Commerce, Government of India in 1984. The Zonal Office of Development Commissioner, Falta SEZ has jurisdiction over the 12 states of West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. BE spoke to Deen Bandhu Singh, Development Commissioner, Falta Special Economic Zone about the current scenario and the impact of the Falta SEZ.

"Cultivating a global culture of wellness"

Dr. Robert M. Goldman: Dr. Robert Goldman explored the profound connection between science, spirituality, and medicine, emphasizing the importance of holistic longevity in shaping a healthier, more unified world.

"Spirituality is the search for the meaning of our existence and the purpose we serve."

In his insightful address, Ram Nath Kovind underscored the teachings of Paramhansa Ramakrishna, Maa Sarada, and Swami Vivekananda, emphasizing their vision of a world united by love and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

India's balancing role in the new 'rightist', de-globalised world.

The world's political tilt towards 'right' may usher in far reaching consequences, both in terms of international trade and in social life in general.