Rebecca Bundhun

2 months ago | channelnewsasia.com | Rebecca Bundhun

India may be home to 1.4 billion people, but around a billion of them do not have enough money to spend on discretionary goods or services, according to a new report released by venture capital firm Blume Ventures last month. Another 300 million fall under the "aspirant class", who largely spend on small-ticket purchases, such as clothing. Only 140 million people — or 10% of the population — make up the "consuming class" in India, with sufficient disposable income for discretionary spending.

2 months ago | channelnewsasia.com | Rebecca Bundhun |Calvin Yang

MUMBAI: India may be home to 1.4 billion people, but around a billion of them do not have enough money to spend on discretionary goods or services, according to a new report released by venture capital firm Blume Ventures last month. Another 300 million fall under what the report describes as “the aspirant class”, who largely spend on small ticket purchases such as clothing.

2 months ago | channelnewsasia.com | Rebecca Bundhun

India's economy rebounded in Q3 roughly in line with expectations. GDP grew 6.2% in the three months to December, compared to the same period last year. This, as increased government spending offset a stubborn weakness in consumption. While growth rebounded, it still remains below the 8% pace expected to create enough well-paying jobs and generate economic prosperity. Meanwhile, the government raised its full-year growth forecast slightly.

2 months ago | channelnewsasia.com | Rebecca Bundhun

India's prime minister hailed what he called New Delhi's "mega partnership" with the new US presidency, as he wrapped up talks in Washington. The two-day trip saw both sides agreeing to work on a deal to resolve trade differences. India also promised to buy more defence equipment from the US, and more oil and gas. But tariffs and immigration also weighed heavily on discussions. Rebecca Bundhun reports from Mumbai.

Feb 12, 2025 | channelnewsasia.com | Rebecca Bundhun

Tariffs likely on top of the agenda when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets US President Donald Trump tomorrow. Both leaders have had a good relationship, but this meeting — amid tensions surrounding trade and immigration — could stretch the friendship. Bilateral trade between the world's largest economy and the planet's most populous nation stood at nearly US$130 billion last year. Rebecca Bundhun reports.