The Times of India
Elections 2026Economy / The Times of India
In the first quarter, India showcased impressive economic resilience with a remarkable 7.8% GDP growth. The surge was notably driven by a surge in domestic demand and the services sector. Additionally, investment activity picked up pace, enhancing the overall economic landscape. This achievement stands out amid global geopolitical tensions and market fluctuations, reinforcing India's status as the fastest-growing major economy in the world.
India's economy recorded impressive growth of 7.8% during the April to June quarter, driven by a thriving manufacturing sector and a strong services industry. Domestic demand surged, bolstered by significant increases in investment and exports. Reflecting this positive trend, the government has upgraded growth projections for prior financial years, showcasing the economy's robust resilience in the face of global challenges.
The latest growth figure was also higher than the Reserve Bank of Indias (RBI) earlier projection of 7 per cent for Q1 FY27. The central bank had estimated quarterly growth at 7 per cent earlier this month, while raising its full-year FY27 growth forecast to 6.7 per cent from 6.6 per cent.
India's economy is poised for significant growth in FY27, with forecasts suggesting an expansion between 7 and 7.2 percent. This anticipated surge in economic activity will be driven by strong domestic demand and government investment initiatives. Notably, manufacturing is showing an impressive rebound, although inflation poses a considerable threat by affecting wholesale prices. Meanwhile, challenges in the external sector hint at the need for effective import reduction measures.
A stolen smartphone may pass through multiple hands after a street snatching, becoming part of an organised shadow economy. But where do these phones go, who profits, and what happens when a device is locked or blocked?
Major Gaurav Arya says defence manufacturing could play a key role in Uttar Pradeshs $1 trillion economy ambition. He highlights the need to build a self-sufficient ecosystem of skilled talent, materials, components, software and suppliers to support advanced weapons production.
Nepal's finance minister estimates flood reconstruction costs between four and five billion dollars. This devastating flood killed over 600 people and left thousands missing. The disaster destroyed towns, bridges, roads, and damaged hydropower stations significantly. Search and rescue operations continue despite disruptions from bad weather conditions. India has provided substantial relief materials to the affected regions.
Washington is preparing what it calls an Economic D-Day against Irana sanctions campaign aimed not only at Tehran, but at the entire ecosystem keeping its oil economy alive. The package could target tankers, ports, ship registries, Irans so-called dark fleet, Chinese teapot refineries, exchange houses and crypto networks. The UAE, one of Irans key trading and financial corridors, has announced a suspension of trade and financial transactions with Tehran. But China is a very different challenge.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a blistering response after trade talks with the Trump administration collapsed, declaring that we were attacked and saying Canada is now at war after being hit with steep U.S. tariffs.In a full-throated defence of Canada's position, Carney said Ottawa walked away from what he called a bad deal, accusing Washington of making last-minute demands that threatened Canada's trade interests, culture, language and sovereignty. He also questioned the reliabi
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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis acknowledged the economic pressure facing Americans, pointing to inflation, high interest rates and rising grocery costs. DeSantis said the economic crunch is being felt not only in Florida but across the country, highlighting the financial strain facing households nationwide.
US housing starts fell sharply in July, reaching their lowest point since November 2022. Existing home purchase contracts also declined, hitting their weakest level since January. High borrowing costs and limited inventory continue to impact housing affordability and sales. Meanwhile, US factory output reached its highest level in over four years. This manufacturing growth was driven by strong investment in artificial intelligence and related industries.
Kolkata's real estate sector may see a revival soon, as over half of the stalled projects are likely to receive clearance. With approvals anticipated before mid-August, this comes after a thorough review triggered by a warehouse collapse. The government's proactive stance will not only rejuvenate construction activities but also provide a much-needed boost to the workforce in the industry.
Hanoi is undertaking a significant urban redevelopment plan for modernization. Authorities are investing billions to create new districts and infrastructure. A major riverfront project aims to tackle flooding and climate risks. This ambitious overhaul includes new transport links and a large sports district. However, rapid redevelopment raises concerns about resident displacement and financial risks.
Formal retail credit penetration in India more than doubled over the past decade. Consumption-led lending, including personal loans, drove this significant growth. Credit access expanded to younger borrowers and women across India. Northern and central states saw increased credit activity, while western and southern regions moderated. This shift reflects credit being used for lifestyle rather than asset acquisition.
The Gulfs biggest investment story may no longer be about oil. It is about where oil wealth is being deployed next. Abu Dhabi is directing growing amounts of capital toward India, from banks and infrastructure to energy, healthcare and digital platforms. UAE cumulative FDI into India reached $25.59 billion through March 2026. The latest announcements include Emirates NBDs $3 billion investment in RBL Bank, up to $1 billion being explored by ADIA and NIIF for Indian infrastructure, and a $1 billi
Renowned actor Robert De Niro boasts a diverse real estate portfolio throughout New York state. His iconic West Village townhouse, which graced his life for many years, has been sold. Additionally, he inherited a seaside Montauk home from his father, and previously shared an Upper West Side apartment that unfortunately succumbed to a fire. De Niro also has a stake in the luxurious Greenwich Hotel, showcasing his investment acumen.
Pakistan has reportedly asked the Trump administration for a $10 billion currency backstop after positioning itself as a mediator in the Iran crisis. Why is Islamabad seeking another financial rescue, and what does it expect from Washington? Here's the story.
IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad lived a remarkably simple life despite his vast fortune. He consistently chose flea market clothes and economy travel, setting a personal example. Kamprad reused tea bags and ate at IKEA cafeterias, avoiding expensive dining options. His thrifty habits stemmed from his upbringing in rural southern Sweden. This frugality also shaped IKEA's company culture and employee guidelines.
In this explosive episode of OPEN COLLAR, Major Gaurav Arya explains why Kharg Island is considered the backbone of Irans oil economy and a potential strategic target in any future U.S.-Iran conflict. The episode explores how disrupting Irans key oil export hub could severely weaken Tehrans economy, impact Chinas energy supplies, and reshape the balance of power in the Gulf. It also examines why economic pressure, rather than diplomacy alone, may become the defining factor in the next phase of t
Europe's prolonged heatwave is no longer just a weather story it's becoming an economic challenge. With temperatures climbing close to 40C across parts of Germany and France, businesses are reporting lower productivity, more sick leave, and growing pressure to adapt. As governments debate air conditioning, energy use, and climate policy, Europe faces difficult choices between protecting public health and limiting emissions.#EuropeHeatwave #ClimateChange #Germany #France #GlobalWarming #Europe #
The Nifty Realty Index tracks India's listed real estate companies' performance. It comprises ten firms selected by free-float market capitalization and rebalanced semi-annually. DLF, Phoenix Mills, and Lodha Developers hold the largest weights within the index. Companies must meet specific criteria, including trading volume and market capitalization for inclusion. This index serves as a benchmark and basis for financial products, reflecting sector sentiment.
From premium pet food and grooming to pet cabs, insurance and birthday cakes, India's pet economy is witnessing unprecedented growth. As millennials and Gen Z increasingly embrace pet parenthood, spending on companion animals is reshaping a multi-billion-rupee industry.According to industry estimates, India's pet care market, valued at over 30,000 crore in 2024, is expected to grow to 2.1 lakh crore by 2032. In this video, we explore what's driving the boom, where pet parents are spending, and h
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the Indian Navy's crucial role in safeguarding national interests. Recent operations in West Asia demonstrated the Navy's commitment to protecting vital economic interests. The Indo-Pacific region is now a global focus, with India playing a key role. India aims to be a net security provider and trusted partner across the Indo-Pacific. The nation is developing its shipbuilding capacity to become a global maritime defence hub.
A weaker monsoon poses risks to India's rural economy and farm incomes. This could increase food inflation and slow down consumption demand in coming months. Agriculture and related sectors face the biggest impact from below-normal rainfall. Microfinance institutions are more vulnerable than banks due to rural borrower exposure. Hydroelectric generation may decline, but broader economic outlook remains supported.
A big economy that has emerged, but doesn't get talked about from a formal size point of view, is the Gen Z economy, says Flipkart's Kalyan Krishnamurthy on the Digital Consumer Roundtable.
India's junior space minister Jitendra Singh urged BRICS nations to forge a Brics Space Economy, emphasizing collective ambition for global economic growth. The meeting, attended by 10 countries, focused on utilizing the Brics Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation for socio-economic benefits and ensuring sustainable space activities. Discussions also covered co-development and co-creation to address global challenges and foster shared prosperity.
In a world filled with uncertainty, urban Indians stand out with their hopefulness about the nations trajectory and economic vitality, sharply contrasting with the global outlook. However, beneath this optimism, the specter of unemployment looms large for many.
Patrick Mahomes is embracing his quick recovery by enjoying sports with wife Brittany Mahomes. Their shared passion for sports extends to investments in various franchises. They co-own the Kansas City Current. The couple has been high school sweethearts. They have built a life together with three children and a luxurious Missouri mansion.
Blackstone-backed AirTrunk plans a massive Rs 3 lakh crore investment in India by 2030 to boost digital infrastructure, including data centres and AI capacity. Prime Minister Modi welcomed the move, highlighting its potential to strengthen India's global position in cloud computing and AI, create jobs, and drive innovation-led growth.

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