India, with a population of 1.4 billion, appears to be a vast consumer market. However, a deeper look reveals that nearly 1 billion people lack the disposable income required for discretionary spending. According to the Indus Valley Annual Report 2025, only 130 to 140 million people—about the population of Mexico—form India's true consuming class.

Report: India’s middle class shrinks as wealth gap widens

Pakistan's finance minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said an IMF delegation will visit the country next week. The first assessment of the $7 billion rescue package is scheduled for March. Last summer, as part of its economic recovery strategy, Islamabad received a $7 billion loan from the IMF. According to Pakistan's finance minister, the country's economy has stabilised and should now prioritise export-led growth.

IMF review of Pakistan's economic recovery bailout due

Bangladesh Bank has introduced a new currency strategy to stabilize the Taka, which has underperformed most Asian currencies in 2025. The new approach involves daily recalibration of the exchange rate, moving closer to a freely floating system.

Bangladesh eyes freer currency amid economic challenges

Peace talks between the US & Russia over Ukraine have put the spotlight on what the brands will do when the war ends. Since the onset of the conflict in 2022, over 1,000 Western companies have exited Russia, leaving behind a void in the retail and automotive sectors. However, the Russian market has adapted rapidly.

Ukraine peace talks spark debate over brand returns to Russia

Hong Kong is facing its toughest fiscal test in three decades, with annual deficits exceeding $20 billion in three of the past four years. The city’s finance chief, Paul Chan, has announced a plan to restore fiscal balance by mid-2027. The government will cut recurrent spending by 7%. The government has also announced plans to slash 10,000 civil service jobs.

Hong Kong aims to cut spending by 7% to balance budget

The US economy appears strong on the surface, with low unemployment and stable inflation expectations. But beneath the surface, a growing wealth divide is reshaping consumer spending. Let’s break down the numbers and what they mean for the broader economy.

Top earners drive US growth as wealth gap grows

After three years of war, Washington may have offered Moscow an economic lifeline just as the Russian economy is over-heating driven by Western sanctions. US President Donald Trump is urging for a swift agreement to end the war in Ukraine, which has alarmed Washington's European allies. This comes amid skyrocketing interest rates, persistently high inflation, and Russia's massive fiscal stimulus.

Russian Rouble gains on Trump-Putin bromance

India has successfully conducted trials for its indigenous naval anti-ship missile, showcasing its advanced precision strike capability. The missile, developed by DRDO, can retarget in flight, making it a significant addition to the Indian Navy’s arsenal. The Defence Minister praised the achievement, calling it a milestone in India’s defense technology.

India successfully tests indigenous naval missile with precision strike capability

Thousands of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for an ailing Pope Francis, expressing sorrow for his suffering and hope for his recovery. Watch this report for more details!

Hundreds of faithful pray at St Peter's Square for Pope Francis' health

The US has reported its first measles-related death since 2015, with a child in West Texas confirmed as the victim. Health officials state the child was unvaccinated, raising concerns over the spread of the virus. Meanwhile, Health Secretary RFK Jr. has downplayed the threat of a measles outbreak, despite rising infection rates.

First US Measles death since 2015 reported in Texas

Satellite images show at least three drones and the construction of hangars at an airport in South Darfur held by Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Watch this report for more details!

Sudan's RSF operating drones from Darfur base, images show

US President Donald Trump convened the first official Cabinet meeting of his second term on Wednesday and ordered federal agencies to implement more large-scale layoffs.

Donald Trump's First Cabinet Meet: Trump warns federal agencies of more layoffs

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Wion Video Team

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.