On December 19, 2024, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $42 million loan agreement aimed at providing coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. This initiative seeks to enhance the resilience of local communities and ecosystems in the state. Key Signatories to the Loan Agreement The loan agreement for the …
India faces a significant shortfall in certain types of coal, particularly coking coal and high-grade thermal coal in spite of owning the 5-largest coal reserves globally. These specific coal types are not sufficiently available from domestic sources, creating a gap in supply. Decline in Coal Imports (FY 2024-25) During the April-October period of FY 2024-25, …
The central government has launched the second phase of its flagship housing initiative, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban 2.0 (PMAY-U 2.0), to provide affordable housing for one crore economically disadvantaged families and middle-income groups in urban areas. Approved by the Union Cabinet on August 9, 2024, the scheme aims to ensure all-weather pucca houses …
On December 18, the Indian rupee dropped to an all-time low of 84.9550 against the U.S. dollar before closing at 84.9525, down 0.07%. The decline was driven by strong dollar demand from importers, expected outflows from local equities, and speculative dollar bids. Weak Regional Currencies Add Pressure The rupee’s fall mirrored the broader weakness in …
Oil prices dropped as the Federal Reserve’s outlook for fewer interest-rate cuts in 2025 led to a stronger dollar. Brent crude fell to around $73 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) traded at $70. Although the Fed lowered borrowing costs as expected, it reduced the number of rate cuts expected next year, boosting the …
December has historically been a strong month for the Indian stock market, with a 73% probability of positive returns over the past 26 years. This month often delivers optimism driven by portfolio rebalancing, festive season boosts, and active participation by foreign investors. Let’s dive into the key trends shaping the markets this December. December: A …
The Indian stock market, often seen as a barometer for the country’s economic health, has witnessed several key events in 2024 that have influenced its trajectory. From policy shifts and global economic trends to corporate earnings and market sentiment, each of these moments has played a crucial role in shaping the market’s landscape. Here’s a …
Indian Government has been actively fostering the growth and stability of the banking ecosystem via proactive measures focused on business and employee welfare. These efforts aim to ensure transparency, stability, and continued growth. Over the past decade, numerous citizen- and staff-centric reforms have been implemented, contributing to the overall strengthening of the sector. Reforms in …
India’s merchandise trade deficit reached a record $37.8 billion in November, fueled by rising gold and petroleum imports, while falling petroleum export prices impacted export growth. What Led to the Surge in India’s Trade Deficit? India’s merchandise trade deficit has surged to an all-time high of $37.8 billion in November 2024. The sharp increase is …
China’s retail sales growth unexpectedly weakened in November, rising by just 3% compared to the same month last year. This is the slowest growth in 3 months and far below the 4.8% increase seen in October. Industrial Output Shows Modest Growth Industrial output increased by 5.4%, slightly better than the 5.3% growth in the previous …
