Editor Speaks :

Two factors have been positive in the new year which are contributing to building back the eroding business confidence in Indian economy.
The first one is the final announcement of India's single-brand retail market, which has been opened fully for foreign companies, and is expected grow about three-folds to USD 20-25 billion in the next five years as per US India Business Council. This will also mean improved realisations for builders and developers who are holding prime properties and locations. Further there will be more demand for build-to-suit properties for new entrants. Existing foreign entities working shy under disguised arrangements will also come out in the open and display their wings aggressively. A definite shot in the arm for building materials, developers and contractors.
Secondly, the announcement by the Finance Minister (FM) asking an enhancement in PSU expenditure. As per our estimates, March 2012 will be the trigger for government action. This is already vindicated by the FM's statement to provide a fresh stimuli with 17 state-owned companies being asked to step up investment beyond the Rs 1.76 lakh crore or $ 35 billion projected by them for the next financial year.
Let us hope the completion of the UP elections raise economic activity levels UP!