private investment

California's high-speed rail project, plagued by delays and soaring costs exceeding $100 billion, faces an uncertain future. CEO Ian Choudri seeks private investment, proposing state repayment plans to revive the stalled San Francisco-to-Los Angeles line. Despite legislative Democrats' hope, funding remains a hurdle, with critics questioning the project's viability and its impact on agricultural lands.

A government survey projects a nearly 25% decline in private corporate sector capital spending for 2025-26, falling to Rs 4.88 lakh crore. Despite this dip, aggregate capex from 2021-22 to 2024-25 shows a significant increase. Manufacturing dominates capital spending intentions, with machinery and equipment purchases comprising over half of the total provisional capex.

India's economic growth is projected to slow to 6.3 per cent in FY2024-25 due to weak private investment and potential US tariffs, despite matching last year's expansion. Economists highlight structural issues like job creation and stagnant capital expenditure. The RBI is expected to cut rates to support growth amid concerns over business sentiment and inflation.

Harvard University is reportedly negotiating the sale of approximately $1 billion in private equity fund interests, facilitated by Jefferies Financial Group, to Lexington Partners. This divestment aims to enhance liquidity amidst market instability and challenges in divesting companies. The move follows Harvard's recent announcement to secure $750 million in Wall Street financing as a precautionary measure.

India is considering allowing foreign firms to hold up to 49% ownership in its nuclear power plants, aiming to boost its nuclear sector and reduce carbon emissions. This move, under evaluation since 2023, seeks to replace coal-based power with greener alternatives.

As of April 2025, Bill Gates' net worth stands at $104.6 billion, ranking him #14 globally, despite significant philanthropic contributions through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. His wealth is now primarily driven by diversified investments managed through Cascade Investment LLC, spanning various sectors, and his remaining stake in Microsoft.