Nissan to invest $17.6 bn in EV development over next 5 years


IANS Photo

Tokyo, (IANS): As the adoption of electric vechicles enters top gear globally amid rising petrol-diesel prices, Japanese auto-maker Nissan on Monday said it will invest $17.6 billion (2 trillion Yen) in developing new EVs and battery technology over the next five years.

Unveiling the 'Nissan Ambition 2030' plan, the company announced it will launch 23 new electrified models, including 15 new EVs, aiming for 50 per cent electrification mix, by fiscal year 2030.

"We will drive the new age of electrification, advance technologies to reduce carbon footprint and pursue new business opportunities. We want to transform Nissan to become a sustainable company that is truly needed by customers and society," said Makoto Uchida, Nissan CEO.

Over the next 10 years, Nissan aims to deliver exciting, electrified vehicles and technological innovations while expanding its operations globally.

The vision supports Nissan's goal to be carbon neutral across the life cycle of its products by fiscal year 2050.

With the introduction of 20 new EV and e-POWER equipped models in the next five years, Nissan intends to increase its electrification sales mix across major markets by fiscal year 2026, including Europe by more than 75 per cent of sales, Japan by more than 55 per cent of sales, China by more than 40 per cent of sales and the US by 40 per cent of EV sales in fiscal year 2030.

"With our new ambition, we continue to take the lead in accelerating the natural shift to EVs by creating customer pull through an attractive proposition by driving excitement, enabling adoption and creating a cleaner world," said Nissan COO Ashwani Gupta.

Representing the next stage of Nissan's electrified future, the company also unveiled three new concept cars that offer enhanced experiences through sophisticated technology packaging.

Nissan aims to launch EV with its proprietary all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) by fiscal year 2028 and ready a pilot plant in Yokohama as early as fiscal year 2024.

With the introduction of breakthrough ASSB, Nissan will be able to expand its EV offerings across segments and offer more dynamic performance.

"By reducing charging time to one-third, ASSBs will make EVs more efficient and accessible. Further, Nissan expects ASSB to bring the cost of battery packs down to $75 per kWh by fiscal year 2028 and aims to bring it further down to $65 per kWh to achieve cost parity between EV and gasoline vehicles in the future," the company announced.

Nissan intends to increase its global battery production capacity to 52 GWh by fiscal year 2026, and 130 GWh by fiscal year 2030.

Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from news agency feeds and has not been edited by The Morung Express.Source: IANS Nissan to invest $17.6 bn in EV development over next 5 years | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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India’s GDP growth likely to scale 7.5 per cent in FY 26: SBI report


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New Delhi, (IANS): While the 7.4 per cent GDP growth rate projected for FY 26 in the first advance estimates of the Ministry of Statistics "is quite expected and reasonable", the actual figure is eventually likely to be higher at around 7.5 per cent, an SBI Ecowrap report released on Wednesday stated.

"We believe that GDP growth for FY26 would be around 7.5 per cent with an upward bias. The second advance estimates, incorporating additional data and revisions, are scheduled to be released on February 27, 2026. So, all these numbers are expected to change with the base revision to 2022-23," the SBI report said.

On the expenditure side, the heads that have positively contributed include the government consumption with a growth of 5.2 per cent in real terms, it said.

Exports have also held their ground with positive growth of 6.4 per cent. Private consumption growth was a tad lower at 7 per cent, possibly due to a slowdown in the agriculture sector. Per capita consumption expenditure registered a growth of 6.1 per cent. Uptick in government consumption, and traction in services has held up the demand in FY26, cushioning the impact of external headwinds, the report further said.

Capital formation, which slowed last year, has recovered in FY26. The real growth in capital formation at 7.8 per cent was higher by 70 basis points (bps) from last year’s growth. The nominal capital formation growth was also higher, indicating a revival in investment demand, the SBI report observed.

Imports have registered a growth of 9 per cent in nominal terms but a growth of 14.4 per cent in real terms. However, this is expected to moderate in FY27, given the outlook on energy prices, the report pointed out.The fiscal deficit at the end of November 25 stood at Rs 9.8 lakh crore or 62.3 per cent of the budget estimate (BE). Although the tax revenue is likely to be lower than the budgeted for FY26, non-tax revenue will be on the higher side, thereby not impacting the overall receipts much. Total expenditure is also expected to be lower, leading to a fiscal deficit of Rs 15.85 lakh crore compared to the budgeted Rs 15.69 lakh crore. With the new higher GDP figure, the fiscal deficit as a percentage of GDP is likely to remain unchanged at 4.4 per cent, the report added. India’s GDP growth likely to scale 7.5 per cent in FY 26: SBI report | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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Ola Electric faces tough year as market share drops over 50 pc in 2025

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New Delhi, (IANS): India’s electric two-wheeler market saw a major shift in 2025, with last year’s leader Ola Electric losing a large part of its market share, while traditional auto companies strengthened their position.

Ola Electric’s market share dropped sharply to 16.1 per cent in 2025 from 36.7 per cent in 2024.

Despite overall demand for electric two-wheelers improving, the company sold 1,96,767 vehicles during the year, according to data from the government-run Vahan portal.

The sharp fall highlights the growing challenges Ola Electric faced through the year. Ola Electric’s troubles were also linked to operational issues, including customer complaints related to service delays and inconsistent deliveries.

Meanwhile, Bhavish Aggarwal-run electric two-wheeler maker reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 418 crore in second quarter of the current financial year (Q2 FY26).

The revenue from operations of the firm also followed suit and dropped nearly 43 per cent year-on-year to Rs 690 crore in Q2, compared to Rs 1,214 crore in Q2 FY25.

In an earlier exchange filing, the firm said that “For the Auto segment, we expect lower volumes than the Q1 guidance as we continue to focus on margin and cash discipline in a hyper competitive market.

The stock of Ola Electric is also not performing well. Around 1:40 p.m., the company’s shares were down 3.34 per cent at Rs 34.97. Over the past five days, the stock had gained 1.36 per cent.

However, it was down 13.77 per cent over the last one month and had delivered a negative return of nearly 19 per cent in the past six months.

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, the shares were lower by 59.44 per cent, according to official data.

At the same time, established manufacturers with strong dealer networks and better after-sales support gained ground.

TVS Motor Company emerged as the market leader in 2025, capturing a 24.2 per cent share after selling 2,95,315 units.Bajaj Auto followed closely with a 21.9 per cent market share, further tightening competition in the segment. Ola Electric faces tough year as market share drops over 50 pc in 2025 | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com.
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critical pivots for Trinidad and Tobago in 2026


AS TRINIDAD and Tobago heads into 2026, it’s becoming increasingly clear that we are not entering a “fresh start” year – we are entering a decision year.

The global environment has shifted in ways that disproportionately affect small countries. Technology is removing jobs faster than they are replaced, governments everywhere are under fiscal pressure, and the cost of living continues to rise. These are not temporary conditions. They are structural changes.

If we want 2026 to be a year of progress rather than pressure, there are five critical pivots we need to make – not someday, but now.

Upgrade understanding of leadership

We often say we want better leadership, but rarely stop to ask what effective leadership actually looks like in today’s world.



Globally, some of the most effective leaders spend less time campaigning and more time preparing their populations for reality. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong regularly addresses issues such as inflation, global conflict, and economic restructuring in a clear, direct way.

He doesn’t avoid difficult topics. He explains them, giving citizens context and direction.

Similarly, Kaja Kallas former prime minister of Estionia demonstrated how leadership in a small country can be globally relevant. Estonia, with a population similar to TT, built digital systems that reduced bureaucracy, increased transparency, and made government more efficient.

Estonia's former prime minister Kaja Kallas.

Kallas spoke openly to citizens about trade-offs, risks, and long-term strategy – treating them as partners, not spectators.

The lesson here is simple: we cannot demand better leadership if we don’t understand what effective, future-focused leadership looks like globally. Exposure matters. Standards matter.

Shift from job-seeking to value creation

For decades, conversations about employment in TT have centred on job availability. That model is breaking down.

Governments everywhere are digitizing, automating, and cutting costs. Clerical and administrative roles – once a reliable pathway to stability – are shrinking. The idea that the state can absorb everyone who needs a job is no longer realistic.

The pivot required is from job-seeking to value creation.

When you develop a skill that solves a problem – whether in design, accounting, marketing, education, technology, or operations – income is no longer tied to one employer. Three solopreneurs collaborating on a project can generate revenue without forming a traditional company or waiting for an opening.

Work in 2026 will be project-based, collaborative, and skills-driven. Preparing for that reality is no longer optional.

Run every business idea through forex lens

Here’s a question we don’t ask often enough: Does this earn foreign exchange?

As long as most of our economic activity revolves around buying and selling to each other locally, growth will always be capped. A population of 1.4 million people places a hard limit on demand.

Foreign exchange isn’t just about overseas travel – it pays for food imports, fuel, medicine, technology, and business continuity. When forex is scarce, everyone feels it.

Service exports offer the most viable path forward. Digital work, consulting, teaching, creative services, and remote professional skills allow individuals to earn globally while living locally. When enough people earn forex, household resilience improves – and so does national resilience.

Treat mobility as a strategy, not a failure

We currently train more teachers than there are teaching jobs available locally. That mismatch has created frustration and stagnation.

Globally, however, English-speaking teachers are in demand – particularly across Asia. Countries such as Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand actively recruit educators.

Too often, we compare salaries without comparing cost of living. A lower salary in Vietnam or Thailand can still result in better savings and quality of life than earning more on paper in a high-cost country. Rent, transportation, food, and healthcare matter just as much as income.
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This doesn’t have to be permanent. Think of it as career acceleration: gain experience, earn foreign exchange, broaden perspective, then decide what comes next. That isn’t brain drain — it’s skill and capital accumulation.

Redefine what risk really means

For years, risk meant leaving a stable job or trying something new. Today, that definition has flipped.

The real risk now is doing nothing – staying in stagnant industries, relying on a single employer, and hoping things return to how they were before the covid pandemic.

They won’t.

Automation, lay-offs, and rising costs are forcing change whether we’re ready or not. The safest strategy in 2026 is no longer comfort – it’s adaptability.

Calculated risks – learning new skills, exploring global markets, diversifying income — are no longer reckless. They are prudent.

2026 will test mindset, flexibility, and resolve.

The people who navigate it best won’t be the ones who waited for rescue. They’ll be the ones who adjusted early, thought beyond borders, and took responsibility for building their own economic security.For TT, the future won’t be decided by hope alone – it will be shaped by how willing we are to pivot now. 5 critical pivots for Trinidad and Tobago in 2026 - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
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Autonomous Montreal Metro Completed with Massive Cost Savings–Sets Example for Canada

One of the REM trains – credit, Reece Martin, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Cheap, efficient, new and exciting, Montreal’s new automated light rail transit system which recently opened is a major accomplishment for a country routinely criticized for its public transport.

Taras Grescoe is an expert in metropolitan rail systems around the world, and by his estimation, the Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) should be a case study for the whole of North America.

As of November 2025, it consists of 19 stations spanning 50 kilometers (31 mi), connecting Downtown Montreal with the suburb of Brossard and the northwestern Montreal suburbs. The West Island branch will open in the second quarter of 2026 and the branch to the Montréal–Trudeau International Airport will open in 2027.

Trains on the network are fully automated and driverless, and the stations are completely enclosed and climate controlled, built with light-colored, locally-sourced timber and glass.

Innovations from train systems around the world have been incorporated into the REM network design. Like in Japan, the train cars feature heated seats. Like in China, safety doors mounted on the platforms reduce injuries from not minding the gap. Like in Europe, the trains draw power from overhead wires.

However, the nature of Montreal’s climate has seen its designers adopt distinctly Quebecoise features, including gas-powered track heaters to prevent the switches from freezing solid, and reinforced arms meant to smash icy buildup along the overhead wires.

But more than the actual construction and design of the train, it was the planning and execution of its construction that make the REM really stand out among what Grescoe described as a sorry state of transportation among major Canadian cities.

Costing CAD$170 million per kilometer to build, REM is about 21.5-times cheaper than New York’s long-overdue Second Avenue Subway, 4-times cheaper than Toronto’s Eglinton Crosstown light rail, and around 6-times cheaper than light rail systems being built in San Francisco and Los Angeles. REM is 5-times cheaper than a mere 5-station long extension of Montreal’s existing Blue Line underground.

The REM network, with the announced (solid line) and hinted (dotted line) route of the Taschereau REM added – credit CC 4.0.

The contractor on the project is CDPQ Infra, the construction arm of the Caisse de dépôt et placement, (CDP) the manager of Quebec’s massive public pension fund. While this is hardly an example of the free market at work, what having CDPQ in charge did was introduce just enough free market economics to change the game in terms of cost savings; it was simply to reintroduce risk.


CDPQ and CDP were financing the project with what in effect is Quebec’s social security system; cost overruns and failure, therefore, would be taken out of people’s retirement accounts. That might seem diabolical, but if the state is financing the project with tax money, public choice economics demonstrates that this introduces moral hazard into the financing equation—too many people have too few incentives to keep costs down.

CDPQ began the cost savings by utilizing infrastructure such as bridges, existing rights of way, and highways to lay track along. This included the Champlain Bridge over the Saint Lawrence River, which was built some years ago with an empty central corridor for future transit options. It also built through the Mont-Royal Tunnel, and covered other corridors with elevated viaducts.

This lack of tunneling, bridge-building, and eminent domaining-away properties in the path of the railway line has meant that costs stayed down—to be expected, as it was in CDPQ’s interest from the start.

CDPQ holds a 78% equity stake in the REM and will reap revenue from the service, paid out at the rate of 75 cents per kilometer per passenger, for 99 years. It was an investment by the pension plan for the future pensioners, and CDP expects to make 9% return-on-investment over the project’s life, which isn’t bad.Most pensions funds around the world own some amount of US 30-year Treasury Bills, which at current rates garner 4.82%. Autonomous Montreal Metro Completed with Massive Cost Savings–Sets Example for Canada
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Bajaj Finance loses over Rs 19,000 crore in market valuation this week

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Mumbai, December 14 (IANS): Bajaj Finance emerged as the biggest loser among India’s most valued companies last week, as its market capitalisation fell sharply by Rs 19,289.7 crore amid a largely bearish trend in the stock market.

Overall, eight of the top-10 most valued domestic firms together saw their market valuation erode by Rs 79,129.21 crore during the week.

The weak performance came as the BSE benchmark index slipped by 444.71 points, or 0.51 per cent -- reflecting cautious investor sentiment in equities.

Bajaj Finance’s market capitalisation declined to Rs 6,33,106.69 crore, making it the worst-hit stock among the top companies.

ICICI Bank followed closely, with its valuation tumbling by Rs 18,516.31 crore to Rs 9,76,668.15 crore.

Bharti Airtel also faced heavy losses, as its market value dropped by Rs 13,884.63 crore to Rs 11,87,948.11 crore.

State Bank of India saw its valuation fall by Rs 7,846.02 crore, taking its market capitalisation to Rs 8,88,816.17 crore.

IT major Infosys lost Rs 7,145.95 crore from its valuation, which stood at Rs 6,64,220.58 crore at the end of the week.

Tata Consultancy Services saw its market capitalisation decline by Rs 6,783.92 crore to Rs 11,65,078.45 crore, while HDFC Bank’s valuation dipped by Rs 4,460.93 crore to Rs 15,38,558.71 crore.

Life Insurance Corporation of India was the least impacted among the losers, with its market value eroding by Rs 1,201.75 crore to Rs 5,48,820.05 crore.

In contrast, Reliance Industries and Larsen & Toubro were the only two gainers in the top-10 list. Reliance Industries added Rs 20,434.03 crore to its market capitalisation, which rose to Rs 21,05,652.74 crore.Larsen & Toubro’s valuation increased by Rs 4,910.82 crore to Rs 5,60,370.38 crore. Despite the mixed performance, HDFC Bank, Bharti Airtel, TCS, ICICI Bank, State Bank of India, Infosys, Bajaj Finance, Larsen & Toubro and LIC remained among the most valued company in the country. Bajaj Finance loses over Rs 19,000 crore in market valuation this week | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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Australian economic growth is solid but not spectacular. Rate cuts are off the table

Stella Huangfu, University of Sydney

Australia’s economy grew by a softer-than-expected 0.4% in the September quarter, slowing from 0.6% growth in the June quarter. It confirms the recovery is tracking forward but without strong momentum.

Still, figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual gross domestic product (GDP) growth was at a two-year high of 2.1%. That’s just above the Reserve Bank’s estimate of long-term trend growth of 2.0%.

The September quarter national accounts was the final major data release before the Reserve Bank’s meeting on 8–9 December.

The GDP result is steady enough to reassure the Reserve Bank the economy is not slipping backwards, while recent inflation data show domestic price pressures — especially in services — remain elevated. Together, the signals point clearly to a hold on interest rates next week.

All four major banks expect rates to remain on hold for many months, while financial markets on Wednesday were pricing in an 85% chance of a rate rise next year.

Across-the-board strength, led by IT

A key feature of the September quarter is the breadth of domestic growth.

In earlier quarters, much of the expansion came from the public sector — particularly government consumption and infrastructure spending — while private demand was subdued. This quarter marks a clear shift: private demand was the main driver, led by a strong lift in business investment, steady household consumption and continued public investment.

Domestic final demand rose solidly, with contributions from all major components — signalling improving confidence among both businesses and households and a more balanced base for growth than we saw earlier in the year.

Private investment led the gains, rising 2.9% – the strongest quarterly increase since March 2021.

Business investment in machinery and equipment jumped 7.6%, boosted by major data-centre projects in New South Wales and Victoria. IT-related machinery investment hit a record A$2.8 billion, double the June quarter, and aviation-related purchases also jumped. The Bureau of Statistics said in a statement:

The rise in machinery and equipment investment reflects the ongoing expansions of data centres. This is likely due to firms looking to support growth in artificial intelligence and cloud computing capabilities.

Household consumption rose 0.5%, but this was driven more by spending on essentials rather than discretionary items. A cold winter, reduced government rebates and a harsh flu season lifted demand for utilities and for health services.

Public investment grew 3.0%, after three quarterly declines. State and local public corporations led the rise through renewable-energy and water-infrastructure projects.

Coal exports are up

External conditions weakened this quarter as imports grew faster than exports.

Goods exports rose 1.3%, helped by a rebound in coal shipments and strong overseas demand for beef and citrus. Services exports were flat, as a fall in spending by overseas students offset a modest recovery in short-term tourism from China, Japan and South Korea.

Goods imports rose 2.1%, driven by demand for intermediate goods — especially diesel — and capital goods, mainly the data-centre-related equipment.

Companies drew down on inventories during the quarter, which acts as a drag on growth.

Households are saving more

Households remain central to the outlook. They are on firmer financial footing but still spending cautiously. The household saving ratio rose from 6.0% to 6.4%, helped by higher compensation of employees.

Economic growth per person (known as GDP per capita) was flat this quarter, but up 0.4% over the year. After several negative quarters, living standards appear to have stopped falling, though improvements remain modest.

Overall, households are in better shape financially but remain hesitant — a pattern that supports stability, not a consumption-led surge.

A steady result, but not enough to shift the rate outlook

Some parts of this quarter’s outcome — including the lift in machinery and aviation-related spending — are unlikely to be repeated.

For the interest rate outlook, however, the key issue remains inflation. Price pressures are still above the Reserve Bank’s target band, and services inflation has been slower to ease than anticipated. The Reserve Bank now expects a more gradual return to the 2–3% target band.

After three rate cuts earlier this year — the most recent in August — markets were expecting at least one more rate cut. That view has shifted. Sticky services inflation and a slower forecast decline mean expectations of further cuts have faded.

A steadier footing, but risks remain

The September quarter shows an economy on a steady, though still moderate, footing. Domestic demand is broad-based, investment is strong, and households have more income support — even if they remain cautious.

But this is not yet a turning point. Inflation is still above target. As Australia enters 2026, the Reserve Bank remains firmly on hold — but alert to the possibility that, if inflation stays above 3%, the next adjustment may need to be upward rather than downward.The Conversation

Stella Huangfu, Associate Professor, School of Economics, University of Sydney

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Macquarie Technology explores JV, capital recycling for $3bn data centre


Posted by Harry Baldock : The Australian technology giant is considering “a range of potential funding alternatives” to support the project

Earlier this week, Macquarie Technology Group revealed to investors that it was exploring funding options for a new 150MW data centre campus project, aiming to meet the expected boom in demand for AI and cloud computing.

The new campus would require between $2.5 billion and $3 billion in capital, excluding land value.

Speaking to investors on Tuesday, CEO David Tudehope said that the company was currently exploring its options for financing the data centre build out at the optioned location. One possibility would be to recycle capital by selling off a stake in the company’s more mature data centre assets. Alternatively, Macquarie could also partner with a third-party to create a joint venture.

“Funding for the new campus […] will come from recycled capital from the existing data centres and/or a development partnership,” said Tudehope, as reported in the Financial Review. “Both of those ideas are quite common overseas but are less common in Australia.”

The tech company has already struck a deal for the required land in Sydney for $240 million earlier this year, to be funded through cash reserves and debt.

Macquarie has been investing in data centres since 2018, with its flagship project taking place at the Macquarie Park Data Centre Campus in Sydney. Phase 1 of the site’s development, known as Sydney IC3 East, was completed in 2020, providing over 12MW of capacity. Phase 2, will see the site scaled further with the construction of the IC3 Super West data centre, bringing total capacity to 65MW.

Construction on C3 Super West began last year and is expected to be complete by Q3 2026. Macquarie extended its loan facilities to $450 million last year to facilitate this expansion.Combining these existing assets with the planned 150MW would make Macquarie one of the largest data centre providers in Australia. Macquarie Technology explores JV, capital recycling for $3bn data centre
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Rupee crashes to record low beyond 90 per dollar


(AI Image/IANS)

New Delhi, (IANS) The Indian rupee fell sharply on Wednesday, slipping past the crucial 90-per-dollar level for the first time ever.

The currency dropped to a new record low of 90.13 against the US dollar, breaking its previous all-time low of 89.9475 touched just a day earlier.

The decline in the rupee came amid weak trade and portfolio flows, along with growing uncertainty over the India-US trade deal.

These factors kept the currency under continuous pressure throughout the session.

The sharp fall in the rupee also weighed on domestic equity markets. The Nifty index slipped below the 26,000 mark -- reflecting cautious sentiment among investors.

The Sensex also dropped nearly 200 points in early trade as the weakening currency raised concerns about inflation and foreign investor activity.

Analysts said that the market mood remained tense as traders watched for signs of stability in the rupee and clarity on trade negotiations between India and the United States.

“The rupee depreciation will halt and even reverse when the India-US trade deal materialises. This is likely this month. A lot, however, will depend on the details of the tariffs to be imposed on India as part of the deal,” analysts stated.

Meanwhile, the Indian stock market opened on a quiet note on Wednesday, with both benchmark indices showing minimal movement in early trade.

The Sensex inched up by just 12 points to 85,151, while the Nifty slipped 18 points to 26,014.

At the opening bell, shares of HUL, Titan, Tata Motors PV, NTPC, BEL, Trent, Bajaj Finserv, Kotak Bank, Ultratech Cement, Maruti Suzuki, L&T, Power Grid, and ITC were among the top losers in the morning session.

“A real concern now, which has contributed to the slow drifting down of the market, is the continued depreciation in the rupee and fears of further depreciation since the RBI is not intervening to support the rupee,” analysts stated.“This concern is forcing the FIIs to sell despite the improving fundamentals of rising corporate earnings and strong rebound in GDP growth,” they added. Rupee crashes to record low beyond 90 per dollar | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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The High-End Fashion Industry’s Reaction to Economic Turmoil


Illustration by Ruhi Bishnoi

While inflation has pinched the wallets of many, it’s ironically fueling the growth of luxury fashion. As most consumers scale back on spending due to rising costs, iconic brands like Chanel, Rolex, and Hermès are boldly raising their prices, sometimes surpassing inflation itself. For some, it's a response to economic pressures; for others, it’s a strategic move to preserve their elite status.

Luxury brands excuse their price inflation by claiming inflation pressures and rising material costs, but their figures do not hold up. Consider, for instance, Chanel in 2019, the average price for a Classic Flap bag stood at $5,800. At present, it has reached about $10,200, a phenomenal increase of about 76% in price. Chanel justified this by claiming a commitment to quality and exclusivity. This argument was pushed by the CEO, Leena Nair for the price hike, she said "We use exquisite raw materials and our production is very rigorous, laborious, handmade-so we raise our prices according to the inflation that we see." But is there more to it? Many consumers and analysts suspect otherwise, wondering whether such price bounds are truly to do with keeping up with cost or simply to maintain their ultra-high-end status.

The watch market is no different. Patek Philippe and Rolex rank among the world's most desirable brands, but to purchase them at retail is effectively impossible for someone who lacks any insider affiliation. On the secondary market, though, such timepieces tend to fetch two to three times their retail price. Are these brands genuinely facing supply chain restrictions, or do they limit production on purpose to keep demand strong? Most industry professionals believe the latter.

Beyond the realm of economics, luxury brands have learned a thing or two about price psychology. Economists call it the Veblen Effect; as the price for some luxury items rises, so does their demand. In contrast to mass-market items, a client does not buy Chanel handbags or Rolex watches just for their fine craftsmanship; he or she buys them for their prestige. Price hikes aren’t just about inflation; they create an aura of exclusivity around such goods. In short, the higher the price, the more desirable they become.

Hermès exemplifies this strategy. The brand, synonymous with scarcity and strict pricing, increased the price of an average Birkin bag by nearly 10% in 2023, exceeding inflation rates. A close examination of the discourse further reveals the possible truth that these bags do not just serve as accessories but genuine investments, worth holding and appreciating. Louis Vuitton had equally to trade from a playbook wherein multiple price raises go within a year despite the depressing foreign retail markets. These luxury goods stack up nowadays according to Business of Fashion on an average basis for around fifty-four percent more than they did during 2019. Yet, sales remain booming-some even argue more than ever. Why? Because these have successfully groomed the idea that affordability in hand and wrist should become a tag as status hallmark for completion in being successful. However, it too ends up being an ethical debate. Should luxury companies literally be allowed to raise prices this steeply while others are still cash-strapped? Some would just say that this is merely a business concept as the saying goes"If you find someone willing to pay, why not charge him more?" while some see it as a deliberate ploy to keep out regular buyers, thus making it all the more desired by ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

So, what’s next in the future? Will brands continue to push prices higher, or are we approaching a breaking point? History suggests that as long as affluent consumers remain eager to buy into exclusivity, luxury brands will continue raising prices, regardless of economic conditions. But there’s always the risk of alienating aspirational buyers, the ones who save up for a dream luxury purchase, if prices keep climbing.

Indeed, changes in behavior control the portion of this high drama. The industry remains high-class and entry-level as long as there is pursuit by people to be status seekers, this profit will always be there for these brands, be it a recession or not.Ruhi Bishnoi is a Data Science, Economics, and Business student at Plaksha University, set to graduate in 2027. She is passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to drive strategic business decisions and create meaningful impact. The High-End Fashion Industry’s Reaction to Economic Turmoil | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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UK’s Sizewell C achieves financing landmark

How the new plant could look (Image: Sizewell C)

The Sizewell C project to build two of EDF’s EPR reactors on England’s east coast has reached Financial Close, including GBP5 billion (USD6.5 billion) in export credit financing by BpifranceAE as well as debt financing from the UK’s National Wealth Fund.

France's EDF, announcing the financial closing of the project, said it would invest a maximum of GBP1.1 billion during the construction period and would have a stake of 12.5%, with the UK government having 44.9%, La Caisse 20%, Centrica 15% and Amber Infrastructure 7.6%.

It added: "EDF will not invest new cash at financial close due to the reimbursement of the development costs incurred since 2015 and a payment in return for the Hinkley Point C project expertise that Sizewell C benefits from, as well as the series effect."

Thirteen banks have supported the GBP5 billion debt raise: ABN Amro Bank; Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria; Santander CIB; BNP Paribas; Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank; CaixaBank; Citibank; Crédit Industriel et Commercial; HSBC Bank; Lloyds Bank; National Westminster Bank; Natixis and Societe Generale.

Sizewell C said "this landmark moment sees funding for the project beginning to flow, unlocking full-scale construction of the Suffolk-based plant".

The plan is for the estimated GBP38 billion Sizewell C plant to feature two EPR reactors producing 3.2 GW of electricity, enough to power the equivalent of around six million homes for at least 60 years. It would be a similar design to the two-unit plant being built at Hinkley Point C in Somerset, with the aim of building it more quickly and at lower cost as a result of the experience gained from what is the first new nuclear construction project in the UK for about three decades. A final investment decision for the Sizewell C project was taken in July this year.

Sizewell C has used the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) funding model, which will see consumers contributing towards the cost of new nuclear power plants during the construction phase. Under the previous Contracts for Difference system developers finance the construction of a nuclear project and only begin receiving revenue when the power plant starts generating electricity.

Sizewell C said the "financing model attracts private investment that would not otherwise be possible. Government estimates that using the RAB can save consumers GBP30 billion, compared with other models, as a result of lower financing costs".

UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: "By backing nuclear we are creating thousands of high-quality jobs across the country, supporting British supply chains and keeping the lights on with homegrown energy for generations to come."

Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, the trade association for the UK’s civil nuclear industry, said: "Reaching financial close for Sizewell C is a landmark moment for the UK's clean energy future. It proves that new nuclear can attract significant investment - a vital step towards energy security, skilled jobs, and achieving net zero. The financing model used for Sizewell C is crucial to unlocking further private investment in new nuclear projects, cutting our reliance on fossil fuels, and driving an industrial revival across Britain."

EDF also noted the wider benefits for the French state-owned group: "The EDF group will contribute to the project as a supplier of engineering studies (EDF/Edvance), the main primary circuit including the nuclear boiler, steam generators and safety control system (Framatome) and, for the conventional island, the turbo-alternator unit (Arabelle Solutions). For the French nuclear industry more broadly with some 40 French suppliers, it will help to perpetuate skills, capitalise on experience and generate economies of scale for the EPR2 programme in France."Sizewell C said that Clifford Chance acted as legal adviser, Rothschild & Co acted as lead financial adviser across equity, debt and credit ratings, and BNP Paribas acted as joint debt financial adviser to Sizewell C on the capital raise. HSBC acted as French Authorities and Green Loan Coordinator, alongside Santander CIB as Documentation Coordinator on the GBP5 billion export credit backed facility. UK’s Sizewell C achieves financing landmark
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Chinese company monopolises printing of Nepal’s banknotes for nearly three years

Chinese company monopolises printing of Nepal’s banknotes for nearly three years (Photo: @yicaichina/X/IANS)

Kathmandu, (IANS) China Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation appears to be monopolising the printing of Nepal’s banknotes, with the Chinese state-owned company winning bids seven times consecutively over the past three years.

On Friday, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), the central bank of the country, issued a letter of intent to award a contract to the Chinese company for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of 430 million pieces of NPR 1,000 denomination banknotes worth US$16.985 million.

According to the NRB’s notice, the Chinese company was selected as the substantially responsive, lowest evaluated bidder.

In nearly past three years, NRB has issued seven separate tenders for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of various denominations of banknotes. In each case, the Beijing-based company, located in the Xicheng District, emerged as the winning bidder.

Based on the contracts awarded during this period, the Chinese company is expected to earn around US$63 million from Nepal for printing approximately 2.38 billion pieces of banknotes.

The Chinese company does not have a long history of printing Nepal’s currency notes. In 2016, the Chinese company had secured the contract to print Nepal’s banknotes for the first time, according to the NRB.

On October 15 this year, NRB issued a letter of intent to print and supply 420 million pieces of NPR 50 denomination banknotes and related services. Its bid price of US$10.422 million was accepted as the lowest evaluated bid, according to the central bank’s notice.

Earlier, on June 22 this year, the same company was awarded a contract for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of 230 million pieces of NPR 500 denomination banknotes and related services. Its bid price of US$9.66 million was accepted as the substantially responsive, lowest evaluated bid.

On October 27 last year, the Chinese company won another bid to print Nepal’s banknotes. It was awarded the contract for printing and supplying 300 million pieces of NPR 100 denomination notes for US$8.996 million.

Similarly, on October 8 last year, the company won the bid to design, print, and supply 340 million pieces of NPR 10 denomination banknotes. It was awarded the contract for US$7.117 million as the lowest evaluated bidder.

Earlier, on July 10 last year, the company secured the contract for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of 350 million pieces of NPR 5 denomination banknotes at a bid price of US$5.158 million, which was also accepted as the lowest evaluated bid.

Likewise, on February 12, 2023, NRB issued a letter of intent to award the company a contract for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of 310 million pieces of NPR 20 denomination banknotes for US$4.698 million.

The last time an Indian company received a similar contract was on January 10, 2023, when NRB issued a letter of intent to award the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited a contract for the design, printing, supply, and delivery of 300 million pieces of NPR 50 denomination banknotes for US$5.048 million.

Earlier, on November 30, 2022, the same Indian company had been awarded a contract to print and supply 430 million pieces of NPR 1,000 denomination circulation banknotes for US$11.134 million.

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Worldwide spending on AI is expected to be nearly $1.5 trillion in 2025: Report

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New Delhi, (IANS): Worldwide spending on artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to be nearly $1.5 trillion in 2025, up nearly 50 per cent up from $987,904 in 2024, a report said on Monday.

Further, the overall global AI spending is likely to top $2 trillion in 2026, led by AI integration into products such as smartphones and PCs, as well as infrastructure, according to a business and technology insights company Gartner, Inc report.

Mirroring last year's spending graph, generative AI integration in smartphones would lead the spending at $298,189 this year as well, followed by AI services ($282,556), AI-optimised servers ($267,534), AI processing semiconductor ($209,192), AI application software ($172,029) and AI infrastructure Software ($126,177).

"The forecast assumes continued investment in AI infrastructure expansion, as major hyperscalers continue to increase investments in data centres with AI-optimised hardware and GPUs to scale their services," said John-David Lovelock, Distinguished VP Analyst at Gartner.

"The AI investment landscape is also expanding beyond traditional U.S. tech giants, including Chinese companies and new AI cloud providers. Furthermore, venture capital investment in AI providers is providing additional tailwinds for AI spending," he added.

According to the report, the AI spending would reach $2.02 trillion in 2026 following a similar growth trajectory.

In 2026, spending on Generative AI integration in smartphones is likely to be at $393,297. Meanwhile, the spending on AI Services would reach $324,669, and for AI-optimised servers, it would go around $329,528

Similarly, AI processing semiconductor ($267,934), AI application software ($269,703) and AI infrastructure software ($229,885) will also put weight in spending on AI.

The other segments, attracting AI spending, would be AI PCs by ARM and x86, AI-optimised IaaS, and GenAI Models.Gartner providers equip tech leaders and their teams with role-based best practices, industry insights and strategic views into emerging trends and market changes to achieve their mission-critical priorities and build the successful organisations of tomorrow. Worldwide spending on AI is expected to be nearly $1.5 trillion in 2025: Report | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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First-ever Startup World Cup in India in Oct, $1 million prize money up for grabs

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Mumbai, September 15 (IANS): Digital technology industry forum India Mobile Congress (IMC) announced on Saturday that it will host the inaugural edition of the Startup World Cup India, where startups will pitch their ideas for a chance to compete in the global finale.

The event from October 8–11 at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi, allows local founders to compete for a chance to participate in the $1 million global finale in San Francisco, the US.

Over 300 startups have submitted applications, from which 15 startups will be shortlisted to pitch to a curated jury comprising venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, and policy leaders, an official statement said.

"As a key feature of the Aspire programme this year, the 'Startup World Cup' supports IMC’s larger goal: to make India a global leader in deep-tech and digital innovation," the statement said.

Hosting the Startup World Cup India for the first time, 'IMC 2025' highlights its commitment to placing Indian startups at the forefront of the global innovation economy, said Ramakrishna P., CEO of India Mobile Congress.

"With 'IMC Aspire', we are not just giving startups a platform to pitch, but a pathway to scale globally," he added.

Launched in 2023, IMC Aspire's third edition this year is set to connect over 500 startups with 300 investors, accelerators, and venture funds. The four-day 'IMC 2025' is expected to draw over 1.5 lakh visitors from more than 150 countries, showcase over 400 exhibitors, and host 800 speakers in 100 conference sessions.

The discussions span topics such as next-generation connectivity, electronics manufacturing, AI-driven solutions, IoT, and more, the release noted.

India has moved up from rank 81 to 39 in the Global Innovation Index in less than a decade.

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Georgia clears debts to seven countries, including Armenia


As of August 2025, Georgia has fully repaid its debts to seven countries, including Armenia, Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Iran and the Netherlands, Georgia Online reported on Wednesday, citing the Georgian Ministry of Finance.

By July 31, Georgia owed $516,000 to Armenia, $3.997 million to Russia, $1.139 million to Turkey, $636,000 to Kazakhstan, $585,000 to Azerbaijan, $427,000 to Iran and €12,000 to the Netherlands. These debts largely date back to Georgia’s early independence and were restructured in 2004 under a Paris Club agreement.Georgia’s total external debt stood at $9.1 billion as of August 31, 2025, with major creditors including the Asian Development Bank, World Bank, and European Investment Bank. Among bilateral lenders, France (€729.3 million) and Germany (€509.7 million) are the largest. Source: https://www.panorama.am/
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India's tyre industry projected to see robust growth in current fiscal



New Delhi, (IANS): Driven by consistent investments in capacity expansion, improved manufacturing efficiency and a stronger focus on R&D capabilities, India's tyre industry is projected to see a robust growth in the current fiscal (FY26).

According to sector leaders, citing industry data, the domestic tyre industry is expected to achieve strong growth on the back of the strong domestic replacement demand despite muted OE (original equipment) offtakes.

The replacement demand will likely be supported by factors like favourable rural sentiments, festive demand, and expected rate cut effect on consumption, even as urban demand is soft, according to analysts.

The festive season, recent repo rate cuts, and favourable monsoon conditions are expected to boost consumer sentiment.

A recent Crisil Ratings report mentioned that India’s tyre sector will see steady revenue growth of 7-8 per cent during the current financial year, driven by replacement demand that accounts for half of annual sales.

Rising premiumisation is expected to give a slight leg-up to realisations. However, escalating trade tensions and the risk of dumping by Chinese producers diverting inventories because of US tariffs could pose challenges, the report states.

Operating profitability is likely to remain steady at 13-13.5 per cent, supported by stable input costs and healthy capacity utilisation.

“This, along with strong accruals, lean balance sheets and calibrated capital spending, should help sustain the sector’s stable credit outlook,” according to the report.

The report was based on an analysis of India’s top six tyre makers, catering to all vehicle segments and accounting for 85 per cent of the sector’s approximately Rs one lakh crore revenue. Domestic demand remains the mainstay, propelling around 75 per cent of total volume, with exports making up the rest.According to Crisil Ratings senior director Anuj Sethi. volume growth is seen at 5-6 per cent this fiscal, mirroring last fiscal. The replacement segment, accounting for around 50 per cent of volume, is set to grow 6-7 per cent on the back of a large vehicle base, strong freight movement and rural recovery. India's tyre industry projected to see robust growth in current fiscal | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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Temasek Invests in Haldiram’s as India Becomes a Key Market


Singapore’s state-owned investment fund, Temasek, has made yet another major investment in India; this time it acquired a 10% stake in Haldiram‘s Snacks Food, one of the leading snack brands in India.

This deal was worth $1 billion, giving Haldiram’s a valuation of $10 billion. This is the largest private equity deal in the consumer sector in India.
Reasons for Investing in Temasek Haldiram’s

Temasek has put up investments across several sectors in India, including but not limited to medicals, finance, and technology. Long-term growth potential for India is seen by the fund, which plans to invest $10 billion in the next three years.

The spokesperson from Haldiram’s said they’re thrilled to welcome Temasek as an investor and partner. It is going to complement the company’s expansion further, both within India and abroad.

Haldiram’s: A Legacy of Success

Haldiram’s started as small snack shop in Bikaner, Rajasthan, in 1937. Today, it is a household name across India famous for savoury snacks, sweets, and fast-food outlets.

Beverage brand holds nearly 13% of India’s $6.2 billion snack market according to Euromonitor International. It has also set up a manufacturing facility in the UK from where products are exported to different countries.

Haldiram’s Attracting More Investors

Haldiram’s has already positioned itself as a company sought out by major global investors. Companies such as the Tata Group and Bain Capital have toyed with earlier decisions about purchasing a stake in the company.

It is joined in this latest funding round by Temasek, along with two other investors- Alpha Wave Global (New York-based) and the UAE’s International Holding Co.
Temasek Expanding Its Footprint in India

Since 2004, Temasek has been building its presence in India based on its Mumbai office. Investments in the country are nearing $40 billion by 2024.

Apart from Haldiram’s, Temasek has now invested in leading Indian companies like: 
Looking Beyond India

But while Temasek stays optimistic about India, it has been restructuring its portfolios across all geographies depending on economic and geopolitical factors.In 2020, China constituted 29% of Temasek’s investments. That is set to fall to 19% by 2024, whereas India now makes up 7% of the total portfolio.Temasek Invests in Haldiram’s as India Becomes a Key Market
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Suzuki to invest Rs 70,000 crore in India over next 5–6 years

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New Delhi, (IANS): Japanese automaker Suzuki Motor Corporation on Tuesday announced that it will invest Rs 70,000 crore in India over the next five to six years.

The investment will be used to increase production, introduce new car models, and protect its leadership position in the world’s third-largest automobile market.

The announcement was made by Suzuki Motor Corporation President Toshihiro Suzuki during the launch of Maruti Suzuki’s first electric SUV, the ‘e-Vitara’, at the company’s Hansalpur plant in Gujarat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first batch of the electric SUVs at the inauguration ceremony.

The e-Vitara will be manufactured exclusively at Suzuki Motor Gujarat (SMG), a unit of Maruti Suzuki India, and exported to more than 100 countries.

The first shipment will leave from Pipavav port for Europe, covering markets like the UK, Germany, France, Norway, Italy, and several others.

Suzuki also confirmed that the electric SUV will be exported to Japan.

Toshihiro Suzuki said the Gujarat facility is being developed into one of the world’s largest automobile hubs with a planned capacity of 10 lakh units annually.

“We chose this facility to manufacture our first battery electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, and make it a global production hub,” he said.

Calling it a “historic day” that coincided with Ganesh Chaturthi, Suzuki praised Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in driving India’s green mobility push.

“Suzuki has proudly partnered in India’s mobility journey for over four decades, and we remain committed to supporting India’s vision of sustainable mobility and contributing to Viksit Bharat,” he added.

India is Suzuki’s biggest market by sales and revenue, largely through its majority-owned subsidiary, Maruti Suzuki, the country’s top carmaker.

Over the years, Suzuki has invested more than Rs 1 lakh crore in India, creating over 11 lakh direct jobs in its value chain.

Alongside the e-Vitara launch, the company also marked another milestone by beginning production of India’s first lithium-ion battery and cell with electrode-level localisation.

These batteries, used in hybrid vehicles, will now be made in India with only raw materials and some semiconductor parts imported from Japan.

Suzuki said this step is a strong push towards ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, and the company will follow a ‘multi-powertrain strategy’ to meet its carbon neutrality goals.

This includes electric vehicles, strong hybrids, ethanol flex-fuel vehicles, and compressed biogas.Following the announcement, shares of Maruti Suzuki India Limited were trading higher at Rs 14,608.10, up 1.04 per cent during intra-day trade on Tuesday. Suzuki to invest Rs 70,000 crore in India over next 5–6 years | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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Worldline Increases Payment Authorisation Rates With AI-Powered Routing Solution


By The Fintech Times: Businesses are now able to route payments globally using artificial intelligence (AI), following the launch of a new service by the payments services organisation Worldline.

Payments are routed through acquirers, and choosing the most suitable one leads to increased authorisation and optimised costs. Traditionally, it would be challenging to select the right acquirer quickly, but with the new Worldline solution, merchants can utilise AI to select the optimal payment route in real time by analysing transaction data, in turn uplifting conversion rates.

Some of the pilot merchants are experiencing an uplift of over two per cent in authorisation rates (on top of three per cent with rule-based routing). The existing rules-based solution routes transactions to the acquirer with a low interchange fee, with one customer witnessing a €1.63million boost in revenue.

Khalil Kammoun, head of shared services at Worldline, commented: “With AI-driven routing, we’re enhancing authorisation rates through smarter decision-making and unlocking new revenue for our customers. At Worldline, we view payments as a growth driver for businesses and through this solution, we are delivering on that promise. Our aim is to enable businesses to achieve new levels of efficiency, cost savings, and payment optimisation.”
Adjustment to meet consumer operational needs

By boosting authorisation rates and reducing cost, Worldline helps customers to maximise profit margins. The solution offers a dual-layered routing strategy, combining the reliability of predefined rules with the adaptability of machine learning. This allows businesses to adjust their payment processes to fit specific operational needs.

Key features of the full solution include:
  • Omnichannel capability: the rules-based service can be used from multiple touchpoints for both online and in store transactions.
  • Global reach: supports multi-currency, multi-acquirer environments with intelligent cross-border payment handling.
  • AI-powered routing: this feature used global online businesses selects the most favourable acquirers, increasing conversion rates.
Worldline’s AI-based solution is already being used by global e-commerce customers and will soon be available for other Worldline payment platforms. Worldline Increases Payment Authorisation Rates With AI-Powered Routing Solution
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€631bn ‘Made for Germany’ initiative presents major opportunity for telcos


Major investments planned by both the private and public sectors could see connectivity flourish

This week, a consortium of 61 German companies have announced the launch of the ‘Made for Germany’ initiative, aimed at streamlining private sector dialogue with government and roadblocks for investment.

According to a shared press release, the initiative aims to create “a key point of contact for the government, working to define priorities, develop targeted measures and implement reforms effectively”. This, the companies say, will help to boost Germany as an economic hub and create a stable and inviting investment landscape for investors.

The 61 private companies participating in the initiative include major players from a wide variety of industries, from banking and automotive to semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. The full list of initiative members can be found here.

The initiative is supported by a collective pledge to invest €631 billion by 2028, demonstrating the companies’ continual commitment to the growth of the national economy.

The investments reportedly includes a mix of both planned and new capital investments and R&D efforts, although exactly how much of the total comprises new commitments is unclear.

“Germany needs a new operating system – one focused on growth, technology, and competitiveness. The time for change is now. Government and business must forge a new kind of partnership and take joint responsibility for society,” said Roland Busch, the CEO of Siemens. “This initiative embodies that spirit of solidarity and stands for a fresh start: with less bureaucracy, and more innovation. Germany is home to world-class companies, has a strong industrial base, and exceptional talent. We have everything it takes to reclaim a leading economic role – especially in digitalization and artificial intelligence.”

Busch’s reference to ‘joint responsibility’ should not come as a surprise given the recent pressure on the German government to make its investment landscape more appealing. In fact, the initiative’s announcement follows major government reforms to debt handling announced earlier this year. These reforms focus primarily on revising the strict borrowing rules that were introduced after the 2008 global financial crisis, removing what has been described as a ‘fiscal straitjacket’ on Germany’s economic growth.

In parallel, the government also pledged to create a €500 billion infrastructure fund to modernise the nation’s infrastructure and bolster national defence. Industries targeted for this funding include energy, transport, R&D, education, and healthcare.

“We are facing one of the largest investment initiatives that we have seen in Germany in recent decades,” said German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at a news conference announcing the ‘Made for Germany’ initiative. “The investment tasks we are facing cannot be achieved by public budgets alone. On the contrary, the lion’s share must be provided by private investors.”

But what does this all mean for the German telecoms sector?

While Deutsche Telekom and United Internet (1&1) are the only explicitly telecoms companies directly listed as participating in the ‘Made for Germany’ initiative, the sector as a whole has much to gain from its creation. When combined with the newly created infrastructure fund, the German market can expect €1 trillion to be poured into infrastructure and industrial projects in the coming years, all of which will need to be backed by the provision of high quality connectivity. This opportunity will be particularly acute around heavy industries like the automotive sector, where digitalisation efforts to expand the use of robotics, IoT, and AI will rely on high capacity low-latency connectivity – at least, that is what the telcos will argue.

At the same time, the reduction in bureaucratic hurdles and closer public–private cooperation could allow for the further acceleration of fibre rollouts, an area where Germany still significantly lags behind the rest of Europe.

In short, as the German public and private sectors grow more closely aligned on investment, German telcos will strive to position themselves key enablers of national digital transformation, without whom economic growth will remain unattainable.How is the German connectivity market changing in 2025? Join the discussion at Connected Germany live in Munich €631bn ‘Made for Germany’ initiative presents major opportunity for telcos | Total Telecom
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