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India's North-South Divide Over Modi's Plan to Redraw Constituencies

India's southern states are protesting against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's plan to redraw parliamentary constituencies, fearing it will diminish their representation in favor of the more populous northern states. The controversy is fueled by concerns that the proposed changes, which hinge on population metrics, penalize southern states for their successful population control measures. Opposition leaders are uniting to demand a census before any redistricting occurs, claiming the current representation disparities must be addressed to ensure fair political representation.

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India Opposition Unites Against Modi's Plan to Redefine Constituencies Δ1.93

The southern states' protest highlights the ongoing tensions between central government control and regional autonomy in India, with M.K. Stalin's proposal aiming to maintain a status quo that favors representation of densely populated northern states over less populous southern regions. The Modi government's plan is seen as an attempt to undermine regional interests and create a north-south divide. By supporting the 1971 boundaries until 2056, southern states aim to ensure equal representation in parliament despite population growth.

India’s Economy Recovers, Providing Relief to Policymakers Δ1.73

India's economy rebounded with a 6.2% growth rate in the fourth quarter, outpacing expectations and offering some respite to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious growth plans. The GDP figure was in line with the median forecast in a Bloomberg survey of economists and higher than a revised reading of 5.6% expansion in the previous quarter. However, concerns persist about the country's growth prospects for the next year, with exports and government spending expected to play a crucial role in sustaining momentum.

India's Modi to Back Mauritius Sovereignty over Chagos, Upgrade Security Ties Δ1.71

Modi will reiterate Mauritius sovereign rights over Chagos, Trump has indicated support to UK-Mauritius deal over islands. India, Mauritius to sign agreement to enhance maritime security. The move reflects a shift in regional dynamics, as India seeks to bolster its strategic partnerships with island nations against the growing influence of China.

India Struggles to Shake Off Pessimism After $1.3 Trillion Stock Rout Δ1.71

Global fund managers are in no rush to load up on Indian stocks even after an unprecedented losing streak has lowered equity valuations, as the market is still grappling with challenges posed by an economic slowdown, profit downgrades, and potential US tariffs. Overseas investors have pulled almost $15 billion from local shares so far this year, putting outflows on track to surpass the record $17 billion registered in 2022. The selloff has wiped out $1.3 trillion from India’s market value.

Indian Markets Sensitive to Global Economic Tures Δ1.70

Indian stock markets and the rupee have been reacting sharply to recent global economic developments, with investors taking a cautious view ahead of key earnings reports from major Indian companies. The value of the rupee has also been impacted by changes in oil prices and interest rates. The impact of these factors on India's economy is expected to be significant, with experts warning that the country may face a period of slow growth.

India's Nifty Posts Longest Losing Run on Escalating Global Trade Conflict Δ1.70

India's Nifty 50 index has recorded its longest losing streak in three decades, driven by escalating global trade tensions following the implementation of tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump. The index has fallen approximately 4% over the last ten sessions, reflecting broader concerns about potential harm to global growth and increased inflation in the U.S. The ongoing situation has created significant uncertainty in Indian markets, particularly affecting sectors reliant on exports.

India's Economic Growth Picked up on Rising Government, Consumer Spending Δ1.70

India's economy expanded by 6.2% in October-December, picking up on increased government and consumer spending, official data showed on Friday, and the government said it expected a further acceleration in the current quarter. The stronger rural economy also bolstered the world's fifth-largest economy in the final quarter of 2024, but manufacturing growth remained subdued. India is still the world's fastest-growing major economy, but it faces uncertainties over its trade with the United States.

India's Benchmark Reverses Early Gains as Global Trade Concerns Erode Sentiment Δ1.70

India's benchmark indexes reversed early gains on Monday, as global trade concerns kept investor sentiment on edge, while index heavyweight Reliance Industries fell the most in five months. The Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex indexes lost ground after data showed a slower-than-expected economic growth rate for the October-December quarter. Investor caution was fueled by U.S. tariff uncertainty and cautious commentary from analysts.

India Inflation Likely Eased Below 4% in February for the First Time in Six Months Δ1.69

India's consumer inflation is projected to have fallen below the Reserve Bank of India's target of 4.0% in February, driven by a slowdown in food price increases as fresh produce became more available. Economists suggest that this easing of inflation may prompt the central bank to consider interest rate cuts to support economic growth, especially following a previous reduction in February. However, concerns remain about potential future inflation spikes due to the looming summer heatwaves and their impact on crop yields.

South Sudan Detains Oil Minister and Military Officials in Threat to Peace Deal Δ1.69

The detentions of the petroleum minister and senior military officials follow intense fighting in Nasir, a strategic northern town, jeopardizing a peace deal that ended a five-year civil war. South Sudanese forces have deployed troops around Machar's residence, despite his ability to travel to his office on Wednesday morning. The arrests are likely to further destabilize the fragile peace that has maintained a delicate balance among competing armed leaders since 2018.

Portugal PM Calls Confidence Vote He'll Likely Lose, Election Looms Δ1.69

The proposal for a confidence vote comes as the prime minister's minority government faces intense opposition from main parties, with a third early election since 2022 on the cards. If the motion fails, Montenegro risks losing his position, and President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will decide whether to dissolve parliament and call fresh elections, which many analysts consider likely. The president stated he would meet with the ruling parties and consultative Council of State after the vote to make a decision on the election calendar.

Migrant Deportations Under Trump Spark Global Fear and Chaos Δ1.69

Gurpreet Singh's experience as an undocumented Indian immigrant is not unique. Thousands of people from around the world have attempted to cross into the US in search of a better life, only to be met with strict enforcement and deportation under President Trump's policies. The use of handcuffs and chains during deportations has sparked outrage globally, particularly among India's opposition parties. The Indian government had raised concerns with the US about these treatment methods, but ultimately allowed them to continue.

Reverse Robin Hood Scam or Windfall for Middle Class? Lawmakers Debate Trump Tax Plan Extensions Δ1.69

Congress is currently embroiled in a heated debate over the potential extension of tax cuts from Trump's administration, with both Republicans and Democrats presenting contrasting narratives about who would benefit most. Republicans argue that extending these cuts would primarily aid low- and middle-income families, while Democrats counter that the wealthiest Americans stand to gain significantly more, describing the plan as a "reverse Robin Hood scam." Economic analyses indicate that while many households would see tax reductions, the largest benefits would disproportionately favor high-income earners, complicating the discussion around equity and fiscal policy.

Democrats Protest Trump's Speech to Congress with Disruption, Exits and Solemn Signs Δ1.69

During President Donald Trump's address to Congress, Democrats voiced their dissent through various protests, including turning their backs, holding signs, and in one instance, a lawmaker being removed for shouting. Representative Al Green's interruption highlighted the discontent surrounding potential cuts to Medicaid and other social programs, as Republicans attempt to pass a spending bill aligned with Trump's tax cut ambitions. The event underscored the stark partisan divide as many Democrats left the chamber, while Republicans applauded Trump's speech, reinforcing the ongoing conflict over the administration's policies.

Trump Pick to Lead NIH Bhattacharya Vows to Tackle Chronic Disease Δ1.69

Bhattacharya backs vaccines despite past COVID criticism; Senators question Bhattacharya on vaccines, funding cuts; Bhattacharya expected to be confirmed after Senate hearing. His views clash with mainstream public health leaders and pose challenges for the NIH's funding and research integrity. As a vocal critic of lockdowns, Bhattacharya may face skepticism from experts over his approach to tackling chronic diseases.

Portugal's Politics Teeters on Brink as Parliament Votes on Confidence Motion Δ1.69

Portugal's cabinet has decided to proceed with a motion of confidence in the centre-right government, despite opposition from main parties, and a parliamentary vote is expected next Tuesday. The proposed vote, which Prime Minister Luis Montenegro announced on Wednesday, risks his own dismissal and an early election. A rejection by lawmakers would lead to the government's fall, triggering a caretaker period before President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa decides on dissolving parliament and calling fresh elections.

India Regulator to Challenge Court Order Against Sebi Officials Δ1.68

India's market regulator and the Bombay Stock Exchange will take appropriate legal action to challenge a Mumbai court order against their officials in relation to an alleged stock market fraud and regulatory violations, they said in separate statements on Sunday. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has stated that it would initiate "appropriate legal steps" to challenge the order, while the Bombay Stock Exchange has described the application as "frivolous and vexatious in nature." SEBI officials have also emphasized their commitment to ensuring due regulatory compliance.

Indian Stocks Post Historic Losing Streak as Global Funds Flee Δ1.68

The Indian stock market has experienced a historic losing streak, with the benchmark index declining for a record 10th straight day due to continuous selling by overseas investors. The selloff has been driven by concerns about slowing economic growth and relatively high valuations, leading to a swift shift in sentiment among emerging-market fund managers. As the market continues to slide, small investors who are new to the market and have not experienced a significant downturn before may be particularly vulnerable.

Germany's Merz and SPD Clear First Hurdle to Forming Coalition Δ1.68

Friedrich Merz's conservatives and the Social Democrats (SPD) have successfully concluded preliminary coalition talks, emphasizing a commitment to stricter measures on illegal migration and economic growth. Merz aims for Germany to achieve 1-2% growth after two years of contraction while increasing military spending and state borrowing to revive the economy. The next phase involves negotiations with the Green party, which will be crucial for passing proposed fiscal measures.

Indian Stocks' Worst Run in 29 Years, Wiping $1 Trillion in Wealth, May yet Have Legs Δ1.68

India's NSE Nifty 50 is poised for its fifth consecutive monthly loss, marking the longest such streak since 1996 and positioning India as the worst-performing global market. Weak earnings, persistent foreign outflows, and uncertainties surrounding U.S. tariffs have collectively eroded nearly $1 trillion in investor wealth, leading market analysts to predict that the situation might not improve soon. Despite some net buying from local institutional investors, the overall sentiment is cautious, with a significant shift towards safer large-cap funds.

India's Trade Minister Heads to US for Talks as Trump Tariffs Loom Δ1.68

India's trade minister Piyush Goyal has started a trip to the United States to pursue trade talks with President Donald Trump's administration, which is set to impose reciprocal tariffs on trading partners including India. The visit comes weeks before the planned tariffs are expected to take effect, and Goyal will seek clarity on their impact on Indian exports. Goyal's trip aims to assess the potential impact of the tariffs and explore possible concessions from the US side.

Austrian Liberals Hold Party Vote Crucial to Future Coalition Government Δ1.68

Beate Meinl-Reisinger, leader of Austria's small, liberal Neos party, called on party members to make history on Sunday and support what she sees as a move supporting liberal democracy as they voted on whether to join a proposed coalition government. Three centrist parties announced coalition deal last week; Neos members must approve the deal to join next government if they do not, two-party coalition has one-seat majority. Government to be sworn in on Monday after historic wait.

RBI’s Pivot Drives Investors to Bet on Gain in Indian Bonds Δ1.68

Indian investors are positioning for a rally in government bonds as the central bank is expected to deliver further interest-rate cuts this year, driven by bets on an economic slowdown and a decline in inflation. The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) pivot towards monetary easing may lead to a decrease in the benchmark 10-year yield to 6.4% by June, according to SBM Bank (India) Ltd. The yield was at 6.69% on Friday, with bond traders forecasting an extended rally in 2025.

Western Australia Polls to Test Popularity of Albanese's Party Δ1.68

The state of Western Australia will hold its final political contest before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calls a national election, with the outcome expected to influence his re-election prospects. Albanese's Labor party is widely favored to win, but the conservative opposition Liberal party hopes to weaken their grip on power and pressure the Prime Minister. The ruling party has maintained a strong presence in the state parliament, with Premier Roger Cook likely to secure a third consecutive term.

Border Clash Leaves Thousands Stranded Δ1.68

The recent closure of the Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has led to clashes between Pakistani and Afghan security forces, killing at least one combatant and injuring several. The dispute over the construction of a border-area outpost has caused thousands of trucks carrying essential goods to be stranded, sparking concerns about economic losses due to the prolonged closure. Traders are worried that the situation could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.