India's tech sector is projected to become a $300-billion industry in the 2025-26 financial year, with a 6% growth rate. The sector's significant contribution to India's GDP includes a notable increase in tech exports. Employment in the sector saw substantial growth, adding 126,000 jobs in 2024-25, highlighting its critical role in the economy.
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India's IPO market reached an impressive milestone in 2024, with proceeds doubling to USD 11.2 billion from 2023's USD 5.5 billion, driven by increased retail participation and domestic inflows. The government's focus on infrastructure and capital expenditure further contributed to India's market dynamism.
7-Eleven's parent company, Seven & i Holdings, is exploring store sell-offs with Canadian firm Alimentation Couche-Tard (ACT) to address antitrust concerns and a potential merger. Joint efforts by financial advisors are underway to find buyers, aiming to create a feasible divestiture plan. This follows measures to counter ACT's takeover bid, previously rejected for undervaluation.
India's foreign exchange reserves fell by $2.54 billion to $635.721 billion for the week ending February 14. The decline ended a three-week rise, during which reserves had increased by $7.654 billion. The forex reserves were impacted by a drop in foreign currency assets, while gold reserves and SDRs saw a rise.
GST collections rose by 7.3% to Rs 1,76,857 crore in December, despite weak urban demand. Domestic collections grew by 8.4%, and import-related collections increased by 3.9%. Refunds issued surged by 45%. Notable performers included Sikkim and Haryana, while states like Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya lagged.
The 2020 tax deferment policy for ESOPs aims to address immediate tax liabilities and financial strain on startups. Despite its potential, applicability is limited to only 3,605 IMB-certified startups. NASSCOM recommends expanding eligibility to all DPIIT-recognized startups to attract talent and reduce employee attrition.
Banks are offering better deposit rates to attract customers amid liquidity shortages. IDBI Bank launched a scheme for individuals aged 80 and above, with higher interest rates. Similarly, Bank of Baroda introduced a liquid fixed deposit scheme allowing withdrawals in units of Rs 1,000, with extra benefits for seniors.
Godavari Biorefineries is investing Rs 130 crore in a new 200 KLPD corn/grain-based distillery to boost ethanol production. The facility, expected to be operational by March 2026, will provide dual-feedstock capability, enhancing flexibility and resilience against climate-related disruptions. This investment will help meet the increasing demand under India's ethanol blending program.
The US economy ended 2024 with a solid performance driven by strong consumer spending and government support resulting in a 2.8% growth for the year. Despite inflation pressures and a slight dip in business investment, the overall economic outlook remains positive as President Donald Trump takes office in 2025.
India experienced a dramatic 99% drop in Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) inflows in 2024, predominantly due to robust US economic performance and tightened Indian market conditions. Analysts highlight factors like India's high valuations and economic uncertainties. Despite this, domestic investor presence maintained market stability, while FPIs showed interest in long-term prospects.
Deciding between renting and buying a home is complex. Renting offers flexibility and potential tax advantages under the old tax regime but lacks the long-term benefits of ownership. Buying provides substantial tax benefits and asset creation but comes with high upfront costs, long-term financial commitments, and market risks.