Economic Growth and Outlook:
India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy, with a growth rate of 6.5% in FY24-25, supported by strong performance in agriculture and the services sector. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has revised India's FY26 GDP growth projection upwards to 7.2%, reflecting a positive outlook.
Indian Family Businesses Thrive:
A recent Deloitte report indicates that nearly 50% of Indian family businesses generate annual revenues between $1 billion and $30 billion. These firms are demonstrating robust growth, with over 63% reporting double-digit revenue growth in 2024. Furthermore, 53% of these businesses are actively adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) to navigate economic challenges. Many are planning significant expansion, particularly within the Asia Pacific region (89%), North America (39%), and Europe (37%). However, the report also highlighted a gender disparity, with only 4% of Indian family businesses having women in 41-50% of board or C-suite roles, and none reporting a majority of women in such positions.
Banking Sector Health Improves:
India's banking sector has achieved a significant milestone, recording its lowest level of Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPAs) in 20 years, declining to 2.31% by March 2025. Net NPAs also dropped to 0.52%, the lowest in two decades. Domestic deposits and credit have nearly tripled over the last 10 years, reaching Rs 231.90 lakh crore and Rs 181.34 lakh crore, respectively, by 2025.
Rupee Weakens Against US Dollar:
The Indian Rupee has slumped to an all-time low of 90.41 against the U.S. dollar. This weakening trend is expected to continue due to weak investor sentiment and the absence of a trade deal with the United States. Analysts predict the rupee could hover between 89.80 and 90.80 this week, with volatility expected to increase as the year concludes.
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes Show Success:
Government data reveals that Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes have successfully attracted over ā¹1.88 lakh crore in actual investment across 14 sectors. These investments have resulted in incremental production and sales exceeding ā¹17 lakh crore and the creation of more than 12.3 lakh direct and indirect jobs. Exports under these schemes have also surpassed ā¹7.5 lakh crore.
Trade Relations and International Engagements:
India is actively pursuing new free trade agreements (FTAs) with key partners like the U.S. and the E.U. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Ethiopia and Jordan to strengthen bilateral ties, with India being a significant trade partner for both nations. Trade between India and Ethiopia stood at $550 million, while with Jordan it reached $2.67 billion in FY25, with pharmaceuticals and engineering exports being key focus areas.
Inflation and Taxation Updates:
Retail inflation saw a marginal increase to 0.71% in November, though it remains the second-lowest since January 2012. Food inflation continued its deflationary trend for the sixth consecutive month. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is intensifying its crackdown on bogus tax deductions and has flagged ā¹5,500 crore in suspicious political donation-linked tax claims.
India as an AI Powerhouse:
India has emerged as a significant player in the global AI landscape, securing the third position in Stanford's ranking for AI adoption.
Wealth Inequality:
The World Inequality Report 2026 highlights significant wealth disparity in India, stating that the top 10% of earners capture 58% of the total national income, and the top 10% own approximately 65% of the total wealth.
Key Appointment:
Bihar minister Nitin Nabin has been appointed as the National Working President of the BJP.