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The latest GDP data, albeit impressive, belie the oft-repeated consumption breakout story and green shoots. Even more worrying is the unequal nature of consumption.

The regional economy is expected to take a big hit in 2026, venture capital activity is starting to show signs of strain, and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign fund has a new investment strategy.
Though the war in the Gulf is pinching the Indian economy, things aren’t too bad. But much needs to be done if the situation drags on or worsens, rather than waiting for it to come to pass.
How well rural consumption is doing is subjective. What isn’t subjective is how growing indebtedness, combined with stagnant income growth, is creating a tinderbox for households, banks and consumer companies that no one is talking about.