Inflation & Interest Rates - India's inflation eased below the central bank's target range for the second time this year [1] - This strengthens the case for an interest rate cut [1] Economic Growth & Trade - Economic growth faces pressure from high US tariffs on Indian goods [1]

Core Insights - The Nokia Mobile Broadband Index Report 2025 highlights the rapid shift towards 5G connectivity in the Middle East and Africa (MEA), projecting that by 2030, 5G will significantly influence mobile subscriptions and data traffic [1][2] - The report indicates that 82% of connections in MEA will be on 4G/5G networks by 2030, with 5G subscriptions expected to reach 605 million, accounting for 25% of total mobile connections and 53% of total mobile data traffic [2][8] - The growth of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is notable, with market share projected to increase from 15% in 2023 to 35% by 2030, driven by the maturity of 5G networks [3][8] Investment and Economic Impact - Significant investments in 5G technology by operators in the MEA region are anticipated to enable IoT, smart cities, and enterprise solutions, fostering economic growth and digital innovation [4] - The integration of 5G with edge computing and AI is expected to create new opportunities for industries, enhancing productivity and customer experiences [4] Market Trends - The adoption of 5G FWA is gaining momentum due to its advantages over traditional wired connections, such as faster deployment and lower infrastructure costs, making it a viable option for expanding internet access [3][8] - In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), 91% of subscriptions are projected to be on 5G, indicating the region's leadership in 5G adoption within MEA [2]

Economic Growth Outlook - Economists increased their US economic growth estimates for this year and next [1] Employment Trends - Job growth is expected to remain weak [1]

Singapore’s central bank is expected to leave monetary policy unchanged this week as it weighs subdued inflation and the lingering threat of US trade measures against a resilient domestic growth outlook. https://t.co/koEpK9ZJZJ ...

Economic Growth Target - India needs a 75% GDP per person increase over 22 years to enter the World Bank's high-income club [1] - Achieving this requires an annual growth rate of 75% [1] Feasibility Assessment - Recent economic performance suggests this goal might be attainable [1]

From @WSJopinion: European voters said last year they’re losing patience with slow economic growth and the climate agenda in Brussels—and, miracle of miracles, someone is finally listening https://t.co/8oqwY4JPys ...

The IMF forecasts that India’s economy will be worth $6.8trn by 2030. So Narendra Modi’s goal of $10trn by 2047 should be a doddle https://t.co/sfBqKJ0pvO ...

Market Outlook - Bull market is expected to continue due to economic growth, resilient corporate profits, and supportive policy [1] - Missing a bull market can be very costly for investors [1][2] - The S&P 500 has increased by 89% since the beginning of the current bull market [2] - The average bull market gains 192% since 1950, suggesting potential for further growth [3] - Historically, the average gain for the S&P 500 in year four of a bull market is 162% [4] - If the historical average gain of 162% is applied, the S&P 500 could reach around 7710 [5] - Seven out of the previous ten bull markets extended beyond three years [5] Investment Strategy - Investors should focus on capturing upside rather than excessive hedging [2] - Retail investors accelerated their weekly stock purchases, with net purchases at $7 billion this week, above the two-month average of 53% per week [8] - Retail investors are favoring ETFs over single stocks [8] - A strong finish to the year is expected, potentially extending into April of next year [11][12]

Economic Overview - The U.S. economy grew by 3.8% last quarter, but approximately half of U.S. states are experiencing economic contraction [1] - Chief Economist Mark Zandi reported that 22 states are contracting, 16 are growing, and 13 are stable [2] Low-Income Households - Lower-income households are facing financial strain, with many feeling their job security is tenuous [3] - Consumer confidence among those earning between $25,000 and $35,000 has declined, with nearly 20% finding jobs hard to secure [3] - Wage growth for lower-income workers is lagging, contributing to struggles with debts and limited savings [4] Inflation and Economic Policy - Fed Vice Chair Michael Barr indicated that inflation may persist through 2027, suggesting prolonged restrictive rates [5] - Economic contraction is expected in the District of Columbia due to federal layoffs and funding cuts, impacting nearby states [6] Regional Economic Challenges - The Midwest is facing economic challenges due to tariffs and stricter immigration policies, affecting manufacturing and agriculture [7] - Georgia is experiencing a slowdown linked to its manufacturing base and agricultural exposure [7] - JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon has warned of a potential recession in 2026, citing persistent inflation concerns [7]

Since Finland closed its border with Russia, it is hoping to eke out growth in icy conditions. Nearby countries face similar problems—yet their fortunes are diverging https://t.co/S9oBPdKP3d ...