India's agricultural sector is projected to achieve record foodgrain production of 164.7 million tonnes in 2025, driven by favourable monsoon. However, challenges remain in pulses and oilseeds self-sufficiency. New schemes, including NMEO-Oilseeds, aim to address import dependency, while technological innovations and government support foster growth.
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The rupee dropped to an all-time low of 85.21 against the US dollar for the sixth consecutive session due to rising US bond yields and strong demand for the dollar from importers. The RBI intervened to limit losses, but underlying issues such as tepid capital flows and a widening trade deficit persist.
US industrial production fared much better than expected last month, the Federal Reserve said Friday, rising sharply as aircraft manufacturing rebounded after the end of a strike at Boeing. The Fed noted that "the resolution of a work stoppage at a major aircraft manufacturer" helped propel gains in the output of aircraft and parts, a reference to a recent strike at US aviation giant Boeing.
Unemployment claims in the US increased by 14,000 for the week ending 11 January, amidst a robust job market with low layoffs. December saw a rise in job growth, while job openings peaked in November, indicating strong hiring intentions despite some high-profile companies announcing job cuts.
Adani Green Energy has withdrawn from two wind power projects worth $1 billion in Sri Lanka after the government sought to reduce the tariff. The projects, set to be completed by 2026, were scrutinized following a political change. Adani deemed the revised tariff unviable but remains open to future collaboration with Sri Lanka.
The government plans to consult with the tech industry and external experts before restricting the transfer of certain personal data outside India, as part of the draft Digital Personal Data Protection rules. The rules also propose parental consent for children under 18 to join social media platforms.
The US transportation department fined JetBlue Airways $2 million for chronic delays on its east coast routes due to unrealistic scheduling. JetBlue blamed air traffic control issues and called for modernization. The fines partially compensate affected passengers. Routes from New York to Raleigh-Durham, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and from Windsor Locks to Fort Lauderdale were notably delayed.
Bajaj Auto reported a 1% decline in total sales, with 3,23,125 units sold in December 2024 compared to December 2023. Domestic two-wheeler sales dropped 19%, though exports increased by 15%. Total commercial vehicle sales grew by 16% to 50,952 units over the previous year's figures.
Zomato has invested an additional Rs 500 crore into Blinkit, its quick commerce business, bringing total funding to Rs 2,800 crore since the 2022 acquisition. This move follows Zomato's recent Rs 8,500 crore fundraising, aimed at bolstering its financial position amidst stiff competition in India's quick commerce sector.
The Union Budget 2025 is poised to announce a 20% increase in capital expenditure to stimulate economic growth and reduce the fiscal deficit to 4.4% of GDP for FY26. EY anticipates measures to boost domestic demand and personal disposable incomes, ensuring India's adherence to its long-term growth objectives.
India's IPO market is booming, exceeding its fundraising record this year. Experts predict the surge will continue into 2025, fueled by strong economic growth and investor enthusiasm. Vishal Mega Mart's successful debut exemplifies this trend. While IPOs dominate, mergers and acquisitions are also gaining momentum, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and consumer sectors, attracting significant global investment.