economic resilience

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have returned to Indian equities, injecting nearly Rs 8,500 crore last week, signaling renewed confidence in India's economic resilience. This inflow comes amidst expectations of subdued growth in the U.S. and China, while India is projected to grow at 6 per cent, attracting FPI interest in domestic consumption-led sectors.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed global trade policy challenges at the Bombay Stock Exchange's 150th anniversary. She emphasized India's resilience amid global volatility, citing strong macroeconomic fundamentals and growing domestic strength. Sitharaman highlighted the increasing role of domestic institutional investors and urged corporates to prioritize transparency.

Climate change is an urgent global reality, disproportionately impacting vulnerable nations. Bangladesh, Haiti, Pakistan, and the Philippines are among the top ten countries facing severe risks from rising sea levels, natural disasters, and fragile infrastructure. These nations require immediate climate resilience measures, adaptive infrastructure, and international aid to mitigate the devastating effects and ensure their survival.

India's central bank witnessed a significant surge in its gold reserves' value, driven by a global rally in gold prices amidst geopolitical and economic uncertainties. The RBI's gold holdings nearly tripled in value over the past year, reflecting a broader trend of central banks worldwide accumulating gold to hedge against global risks.

JP Morgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon is optimistic about America's future, advising young investors to focus on the positive aspects and prioritize well-being. While acknowledging potential economic pains from Trump's tariffs, Dimon expresses confidence in the American economy's resilience. He also highlights the importance of treating others with fairness and honesty for a successful life.

Canadians are preparing to vote on April 28, deciding between the Liberal Party, led by Mark Carney, and the Conservative Party under Pierre Poilievre. The election will determine the country's direction on key issues like climate policy, economic resilience, and relations with the US and India.

During his Southeast Asia tour, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged collaboration with Malaysia and regional neighbors amidst global economic uncertainties. He criticized protectionism, advocating for stronger China-ASEAN ties and a free trade agreement. Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim echoed these sentiments, praising China's stability. Agreements were signed on trade, industrial parks, and agricultural exports.

Union minister G Kishan Reddy's recent visit to Chhattisgarh focused on boosting coal production and sustainable mining. Discussions with Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai centered on expediting land acquisition and environmental clearances for mine expansion.

Amid escalating political pressure, Harvard University confronts a federal freeze on over $2.3 billion in funding, triggering a national debate on civil rights, academic freedom, and ideological reform. At the helm is Alan Garber, a physician-economist whose uncommon academic journey and leadership as president are shaping the university’s resistance to government demands. His career reflects a commitment to intellectual independence and institutional integrity in turbulent times.

IMF head Kristalina Georgieva says a global recession is unlikely. This is despite trade tensions sparked by US tariffs. However, these trade disruptions will cost significantly. The IMF expects markdowns to global growth. Georgieva urges countries to adjust fiscal policy. She also wants central bank independence. China should boost domestic consumption. The US must address surging public debt.

Stock market today: BSE Sensex and Nifty50, the Indian equity benchmark indices, rallied strongly in trade on Monday. While BSE Sensex went above 79,600 intraday, Nifty50 crossed 24,150.