Daily News - Monday, 22 December 2025
India becomes the world’s 4th largest economy India Surpasses Japan, Becomes World’s 4th Largest Economy at $4.5 Trillion (Press Information Bureau)
India’s GDP crossed $4.5 trillion (₹331 lakh crore) in 2025, overtaking Japan to become the world’s 4th largest economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects India will surpass Germany by 2027, driven by 6.5% annual growth. NITI Aayog highlighted that services contribute 53% of GDP, while manufacturing rose to 18%. India’s per capita income reached $3,200, still far below developed economies. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) noted forex reserves at $655 billion, providing stability. This milestone cements India’s role as a global growth engine, second only to China among emerging markets.
India Crosses $1 Trillion Cumulative FDI Milestone Amid Major FY25 Reforms (Ministry of Commerce & Industry)
The Finance Ministry rolled out reforms in FY25, simplifying FDI approvals and expanding automatic routes for 17 sectors. Equity inflows rose 27% year‑on‑year, pushing cumulative foreign investment past $1.05 trillion. Sovereign wealth funds from Singapore, UAE, and Norway pledged new commitments worth $18 billion. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) introduced faster clearance for foreign portfolio investors. Tax incentives include a 5% cut in withholding tax on infrastructure bonds. These measures aim to deepen India’s capital markets and reduce reliance on domestic savings.
Mumbai Port Authority Approves US$108 MILLION Marina Project to Create 2,500 Jobs in Mumbai (Times Now)
The Mumbai Port Authority sanctioned India’s first marina project with an investment of ₹887 crore (≈$108 million). Spread over 12 hectares, it will host 424 yachts and create 2,500 direct jobs. The project aligns with the Sagarmala Programme, boosting India’s blue economy. Officials expect annual revenue of ₹150 crore from tourism and marine services. The marina will also include training facilities under the Shipping Ministry. This marks a strategic step in positioning Mumbai as South Asia’s luxury marine hub.
India’s Exports to China Jump 90% in November, Trade Hits $136 Billion (Knowledge & News Network)
India’s exports to China jumped 90% year‑on‑year, lifting bilateral trade to $136 billion. Key drivers were iron ore (+120%), pharmaceuticals (+65%), and electronics (+40%). The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) warned of overdependence, as China now accounts for 14% of India’s exports. The Commerce Ministry is considering diversification toward ASEAN and Africa. Despite the surge, India’s trade deficit with China remains at $58 billion. Analysts caution that supply chain shocks could expose vulnerabilities if reliance continues.
India’s Households Hold 34,600 Tonnes of Gold, Valued at $3.8 Trillion. RBI Adds 20 Tonnes to Reserves as Gold Demand Surges (Times Now)
David Tait, CEO of the World Gold Council, forecast gold could reach ₹2 lakh per 10g by 2026. India’s official reserves stand at 822 tonnes, valued at $55 billion. Households hold an estimated 25,000 tonnes, worth nearly ₹150 lakh crore, making them the world’s largest private gold owners. Rising inflation and global uncertainty are pushing demand higher. The Reserve Bank of India added 20 tonnes in 2025 to diversify reserves. This outlook underscores gold’s dual role as household wealth and a macroeconomic stabilizer.
