Highlights of Business Today - 16th February, 2025 issue:

Budget 2025 is a pivotal moment for India as economic growth slows to 6.4%, its weakest pace in four years. With GDP projected between 6.3%-6.8% next year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has unveiled a multi-pronged strategy to reignite momentum.

This year’s Budget balances tax cuts and capex investment while ensuring fiscal prudence. The government has announced ₹1 lakh crore in income tax rebates—India’s biggest-ever—to boost disposable income, particularly for middle-class earners. But will this fuel a spending surge, or will inflation and wage stagnation limit the impact?

Additionally, ₹1.5 lakh crore in 50-year interest-free loans has been allocated to states to drive infrastructure growth and structural reforms. However, challenges persist—private investment remains weak, and the global economic landscape is shifting, with US President Donald Trump’s return sparking concerns over trade tariffs and economic volatility.

Despite RBI’s 25 bps repo rate cut, the first in five years, the success of the Budget hinges on urban spending. Goldman Sachs estimates that the tax rebate will increase annual disposable income by ₹80,000-1 lakh for 13 million consumers, potentially benefiting retail, food, travel, and auto sectors. But will households spend or save?

With high inflation, weak wage growth, and external risks, can India achieve 8% growth once again? The next few months will be crucial in shaping the economy’s trajectory.

 All this and more in the latest BT Magazine—Out on stands now!