By Nitya Chakraborty 26 days have passed since the temporary truce in the limited four day war between India and Pakistan taking effect on May 10 this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been talking of his three point doctrine since then, the most important of which is no dialogue with Pakistan unless the ruling […]
By K Raveendran Donald Trump’s Gulf tour has marked a defining chapter in his post-presidential brand of deal diplomacy, delivering a staggering $2 trillion in agreements that stretch across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. This campaign stands in sharp contrast to the flagging results of his so-called trade mark tariff war, which—despite […]
By P Sudhir People on both sides of the border were relieved. The four-day-long military engagement between India and Pakistan came to a close on the late afternoon of May 10. Despite this, gunshots were heard late in the night. But later, the DGMOs of both countries confirmed that the ceasefire has held and war […]
Bitcoin has climbed above $90,000, recovering from a sharp decline that followed the November 2024 U.S. presidential election. This rebound has reignited discussions about its potential role as a safe-haven asset, especially as it outperforms gold in the current market environment.
After reaching a low of approximately $74,500 in early April, Bitcoin’s price has surged nearly 25%, erasing a significant portion of its earlier losses. This upward trajectory is attributed to a combination of factors, including renewed investor interest and shifting macroeconomic conditions.
Analysts point to the increasing appeal of Bitcoin as a hedge against traditional financial instruments. Geoff Kendrick, head of digital assets research at Standard Chartered, forecasts Bitcoin reaching $120,000 in the second quarter of 2025. He cites economic uncertainties, such as rising tariffs and questions over Federal Reserve policies, as catalysts driving investors toward Bitcoin over traditional assets like U.S. Treasurys.
The cryptocurrency’s performance has also been bolstered by institutional interest. Upcoming SEC 13F filings are anticipated to reveal increased Bitcoin holdings by pension and sovereign wealth funds. Additionally, the approval of Bitcoin exchange-traded funds earlier this year has facilitated greater mainstream adoption, contributing to its price appreciation.
Comparatively, gold has experienced a more modest performance. While it reached a record high of over $3,500 per ounce in April, its gains have been overshadowed by Bitcoin’s rapid ascent. The Bitcoin-to-gold price ratio, a metric used to compare the value of the two assets, hit a record-breaking 40 in December 2024, reflecting Bitcoin’s growing dominance in the alternative asset space.
Despite these developments, some experts urge caution. Mark Hackett from Nationwide Financial emphasizes that it’s premature to classify Bitcoin as a safe-haven asset due to its historical volatility. He notes that while Bitcoin’s recent performance is promising, it must demonstrate sustained stability and low correlation with traditional risk assets to be considered a reliable store of value.
The broader market context also plays a role in Bitcoin’s resurgence. President Trump’s economic policies, including delayed tariffs, have influenced investor behavior, prompting a reevaluation of asset allocations. As traditional markets grapple with these policy shifts, alternative assets like Bitcoin are gaining traction among investors seeking diversification.
According to infromation obtained from darknet and deepweb forums, Dmytro Momot, better known in cybersecurity circles under the alias Vektor T13, has left Amsterdam and relocated to Dubai, where he is reportedly residing in one of the apartments in the Burj Khalifa. The reasons behind this sudden change of location remain unclear. However, considering the nature of Vektor T13’s work, this move may have far more complex implications than a […]
A new chapter is unfolding in the heart of the UAE’s real estate landscape as Arabian Hills Estate emerges to replace a once highly anticipated but ultimately undelivered development initially sold by Wahat Al Zaweya Holding PJSC. Positioned near Al Ain, on land just across the Abu Dhabi border, this expansive community of villa and mansion plots is being marketed as a symbol of luxury and renewal, […]
By Subrata Majumder The entire world is deepening into geopolitical tensions and increasing uncertainty in trade following the announcement made by the U.S. President Donald Trump the new tariff rates on April 2. The U.S. slapped 27 percent import tariff on India. President Trump exhilarated this as “discounted replication”, despite India imposing 52 percent and […]
By Sushil Kutty In a special gesture Prime Minister Narendra Modi went to the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Monday and received the Amir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani. And in another special gesture, because the Amir is extraordinarily tall, security personnel assigned to stand at guard at the […]Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Arabian Drilling and Shelf Drilling have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing their international offshore drilling capabilities. This collaboration seeks to leverage the strengths of both companies to offer comprehensive services to a broader clientele and increase their competitiveness in the global market. Under the terms of the MoU, Arabian Drilling will gain access to Shelf […]
Importers in the Gulf region can now easily access a wide range of products manufactured by India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) thanks to the launch of Post Office Export Centres (POECs). This new initiative, spearheaded by India’s Ministry of Communications, aims to streamline the export process for MSMEs and provide global access to their products, specifically targeting markets like the Gulf, which holds significant trade potential for small businesses in India.
The Post Office Export Centres are designed to function as export hubs within India’s vast postal network, connecting small-scale manufacturers to international buyers. By leveraging the extensive infrastructure of the India Post system, the initiative makes it easier for businesses in the Gulf and other foreign markets to procure products directly from Indian MSMEs. With post offices already having a presence in even remote areas of the country, this expansion is expected to break down logistical barriers, especially for smaller businesses that previously lacked the resources to access international trade networks.
The launch of the POECs is part of the broader vision to promote “Made in India” goods globally, especially MSME products that often struggle to find export channels. MSMEs make up a substantial portion of India’s industrial output, and their products are diverse, ranging from handmade textiles to agricultural goods and electronic components. These enterprises form the backbone of India’s economy but have long faced challenges when it comes to reaching international markets, particularly due to complicated and expensive export processes.
India Post’s established network of over 150,000 post offices across the country is now being utilized to open avenues for MSMEs to participate in global trade. This network, one of the largest in the world, will enable businesses in the Gulf to access Indian-made goods efficiently, while also simplifying the complexities often associated with international shipping and customs processes. The Post Office Export Centres will act as intermediaries, assisting with everything from documentation to packaging and final delivery.
With the Gulf region being a major trading partner for India, this move is seen as a strategic one to strengthen trade relations further. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait are some of the leading destinations for Indian exports, and the introduction of POECs will make it easier for businesses there to tap into a wide variety of Indian products. This initiative also aligns with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” campaign, which encourages self-reliance and seeks to boost exports from the country’s smaller enterprises, which are often overlooked in traditional trade practices.
Through these Post Office Export Centres, Indian MSMEs will be able to list their products in a more streamlined manner for foreign buyers. The system simplifies the process of exporting by allowing these enterprises to bypass the complexities typically associated with traditional export methods, such as dealing with multiple intermediaries and navigating intricate customs procedures. Additionally, India Post will provide support in areas such as financial transactions, ensuring that payments are secure and efficiently processed.
This move is expected to bring about a considerable shift in how MSMEs interact with the global market. By utilizing the postal system, which is known for its trust and reliability, India Post is positioning itself as a crucial facilitator of international trade for smaller businesses. The initiative also promises to open doors for a broader range of products, including those from underserved sectors like handicrafts, textiles, and regional food products.
The launch of POECs underscores a significant push towards enhancing digital infrastructure within the Indian postal system. While physical infrastructure remains key, the integration of online platforms for cataloging products, processing orders, and tracking shipments is also a crucial part of the system. The digitalization aspect will ensure that MSMEs are equipped to handle international trade in a manner consistent with global standards, fostering transparency and improving overall efficiency.
For businesses in the Gulf, this system will enable greater access to the vast array of goods that India produces. This is especially significant as Gulf countries have long been important partners for Indian exporters, with a growing demand for diverse products that include textiles, spices, and high-tech gadgets. The opening of these export centres makes the procurement of Indian goods more accessible and cost-effective for Gulf-based importers.
Experts view the initiative as a win-win for both India and the Gulf region. For India, the initiative will boost the export of MSME products and contribute to economic growth, while for the Gulf, it will bring in affordable and high-quality products from India. Additionally, the ease of access through the Post Office Export Centres offers a level of convenience that has been missing in the past, particularly for small-scale importers who often find it difficult to engage in international trade.
Following the victory of Donald Trump in the 2024 U.S. presidential elections, the UAE has experienced a significant surge in remittance flows, with major beneficiaries being India and the Philippines. This spike is attributed to a combination of factors, including a shift in economic dynamics, increasing confidence in the stability of the global economy, and adjustments in the exchange rates. With these countries historically being some of the largest recipients of remittances from the UAE, the recent growth reflects deeper patterns in the region’s labor markets, trade relations, and the broader economic impact of political developments in the United States.
The rise in remittances highlights an enduring trend of expatriates from South Asia and Southeast Asia sending money home, especially in the face of shifting geopolitical and economic landscapes. While the UAE has long been a hub for foreign workers, the current influx of financial support underscores both the strength of these diasporas and their economic significance to the countries of origin. India and the Philippines, two of the top remittance-receiving nations globally, have seen increases that could have significant effects on their local economies, particularly in terms of poverty reduction, infrastructure development, and consumption spending.
For India, which is consistently one of the largest recipients of remittances globally, the increase reflects ongoing economic stability. Many Indian workers in the UAE are employed in sectors such as construction, hospitality, and services, industries that have been impacted by fluctuating global demand. However, with Trump’s victory, there has been a renewed optimism about the UAE’s economic outlook, boosting confidence among remitters. Additionally, the Indian Rupee’s performance against the UAE Dirham has also played a crucial role in making remittance transfers more lucrative for Indian workers, with an improved exchange rate encouraging them to send more money home.
Philippine remittance volumes have mirrored this surge, driven by the large number of Filipino workers across various sectors in the UAE. The increase in remittances to the Philippines is tied to both economic and political factors. With Trump’s win, many Filipino workers have reported feeling more confident in their job security within the UAE, leading to higher disposable incomes and an increased desire to support their families back home. The Duterte administration’s improved diplomatic relations with the UAE, as well as the UAE’s robust labor laws, have also contributed to a more secure working environment for Filipino expatriates. Furthermore, the Philippine government has actively encouraged remittances as a key element in sustaining the country’s economic growth, which is evident in the increased financial flows back home.
One of the key drivers behind the rising remittance numbers is the favorable exchange rate that has emerged following Trump’s victory. The UAE Dirham is pegged to the U.S. Dollar, and with Trump’s anticipated pro-business policies, many economists predict continued economic growth in the region, leading to stronger currencies like the Dirham. As a result, workers from India and the Philippines are able to send larger amounts of money home for each unit of foreign currency they earn.
This surge also aligns with broader trends in global migration patterns, where many labor-exporting countries have seen their nationals continue to seek employment in the UAE despite challenges posed by the global economy. With job opportunities available in sectors like construction, health care, and information technology, both India and the Philippines remain major exporters of labor to the UAE, a relationship that continues to be a vital component of both nations’ economic strategies.
Another factor influencing the rise in remittances is the UAE’s active role in international trade. Trump’s foreign policy outlook, which tends to favor global markets and open trade policies, has reinforced investor confidence in the UAE, positioning it as a leading financial center in the region. This has had a trickle-down effect on remittances, as expatriates feel more secure in sending money back home, knowing that the overall economic stability of the UAE is likely to hold steady.
For both India and the Philippines, remittances are a critical pillar of economic support. The funds sent by workers abroad contribute significantly to the countries’ GDP, provide direct financial assistance to households, and bolster government revenues. In India, remittances have been linked to the reduction of poverty, greater access to education and healthcare, and even the growth of small businesses. Similarly, in the Philippines, remittances support everything from consumer spending to investments in rural development and infrastructure projects.
Despite the positive impact of these remittance flows, challenges persist. The COVID-19 pandemic had a brief dampening effect on global remittances due to economic uncertainties and travel restrictions, but the post-pandemic recovery has led to a strong rebound in money transfers, especially from the UAE. Many of the expatriate workers in the UAE rely heavily on their income to support families in their home countries, making the rise in remittances particularly crucial for those living in more economically vulnerable regions.
By K Raveendran It was vintage Modi on Tuesday night all the way. The prime minister’s victory speech after the BJP success in Haryana sounded as if he had won a convincing national election. And he said everything he had apparently planned to say after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, but could not due to […]Arabian Post Staff Cathay Pacific has introduced a compelling offer to commemorate its new direct route between Riyadh and Hong Kong, aimed at enticing Saudi travelers with a unique opportunity. The airline, known for its premium service and strong presence in Asia, launched this route as part of its ongoing effort to expand connections in the Middle East and capitalize on the growing demand for air travel […]
Insurance premiums for electric vehicles (EVs) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have sharply increased following the heavy rains experienced in April. The severe weather conditions, which led to widespread flooding and property damage, have prompted insurers to reassess their coverage policies for EVs.
The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure and homes across the UAE, intensifying concerns about the vulnerability of electric vehicles to water-related damages. As a result, many insurance providers have adjusted their pricing models to reflect the increased risk. Insurers are now imposing higher premiums and more restrictive coverage terms for EVs, reflecting the perceived higher risk of water damage and related issues.
Industry experts attribute this spike in premiums to several factors. Firstly, the cost of repairs for EVs damaged by flooding is often higher compared to conventional vehicles. This is due to the specialized components and advanced technology in electric vehicles, which require more costly repairs or replacements when damaged. Additionally, the increased risk of battery-related issues in flooded conditions has led to greater caution among insurers.
Several insurance companies have become more selective in providing coverage for EVs, with some firms opting to limit their exposure by reducing their coverage options or even discontinuing insurance for certain models. This has led to a challenging environment for EV owners seeking comprehensive insurance coverage.
In response to the rise in premiums and the tightening of coverage options, many EV owners are now exploring alternative insurance providers and considering additional protective measures for their vehicles. Some are opting for specialized flood protection add-ons or investing in aftermarket modifications to enhance their vehicles’ resilience to water damage.
The impact of these changes on the broader EV market in the UAE is yet to be fully determined. However, the increased cost of insurance and limited coverage options are likely to affect consumer confidence and adoption rates for electric vehicles in the region. As the UAE continues to push for greater adoption of electric vehicles as part of its sustainability goals, addressing the insurance challenges will be crucial to maintaining momentum in the EV sector.
Insurance providers are expected to continue evaluating their policies and pricing strategies in light of the evolving risk landscape. The UAE government and industry stakeholders may need to collaborate on developing guidelines and support mechanisms to mitigate the impact of such extreme weather events on both insurance costs and the broader EV market.
By P. Sudhir The mass revolt against the authoritarian government of Sheikh Hasina Wazed has had a dramatic outcome with the fall of the government and Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country. On Monday (August 5), the `March to Dhaka’ called by the student protestors saw tens of thousands of people reaching the city and marching […]
By L.S. Herdenia BHOPAL: The Madhya Pradesh units of both the BJP and the Congress have decided to initiate massive reforms in their respective organisations. The BJP has been asked by the RSS to apprise Congress leaders, who have joined the BJP, of the saffron party’s style and culture. This message was given by Arun […]The Abu Dhabi Waste Management Centre, Tadweer Group, has announced the formation of four new subsidiaries dedicated to revolutionizing waste management practices in the emirate. This strategic move underscores Tadweer’s unwavering commitment to transforming waste into a valuable resource stream. The newly established subsidiaries – Tadweer Environmental Services and Solutions, Tajmee’e, UpCycle, and Tahweel – will each play a distinct role in driving innovation across the waste […]
By Sushil Kutty It is the same old story. The boringly repetitive drama of Congress leaders imploring Rahul Gandhi to take on a plum post – this time that of Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The two sides never tire of the game. On one side, Congress leaders and on the other side, […]
The post Rahul Gandhi Is Set To Take Over Leader of Opposition Post In Lok Sabha first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By K Raveendran The BJP’s 2019 manifesto had envisaged Indian economy hitting the $5 trillion mark, an audacious goal, that was to be achieved on the strengths of tax reforms, infrastructure development, and job creation. As the nation approaches the deadline, the party has moved the goal posts further ahead, now promising to achieve the […]
The post $5-Trillon Target Missed, Goal Post Shifted By Another Parliament Term first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By K Raveendran The stage is again set for the great deception game. With oil already on the boil, there is a task on the hands of the Modi government and its faithful oil companies to enact another episode of the pe-election drama, which has by now become a regular feature of every Indian election, […]
The post The Great Oil Price Game Is On; Be Ready To Be Rattled By Post-Election ‘Adjustments’ first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Delhi High Court’s remark on the third plea, after rejection of the two earlier, seeking removal of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal is significant. The petitioner deserved to have “heavy costs” imposed on him since the petition was filed for “publicity”. The earlier two pleas were already rejected since an elected […]
The post High Court’s Remark On Removal Of Kejriwal From CM Post Is Significant first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By K Raveendran The big noise about electoral bonds will in all probability end up in a whimper like the investigations into the 2G spectrum scam, both of which can be compared in terms of scale and the extent of mischief. Both scams are likely to remain a dark symphony of secrecy, favours, and hidden […]
The post Hullabaloo About Electoral Bonds May End Up As A Whimper Pre And Post Poll first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
Whether it’s pursuing career advancement, seeking a change in lifestyle, or exploring a different culture, expats face unique financial considerations that demand careful planning and specialised advice if they’re to thrive and be financially secure. One of the primary reasons expatriates require specialised financial advice is the intricate nature of cross-border finances. Managing assets, investments, and taxation across different jurisdictions is a daunting task. Countries have distinct […]
By Arun Srivastava Air dashing of the Enforcement Director Rahul Navin just around midnight on the fourth day of the attack on the team of his sleuths investigating alleged ration distribution scam in West Bengal is not only meant to boost the morale of his men; instead it has got multiple dimensions. If he was […]
The post ED To Adopt More Vindictive Posture In TMC-Ruled West Bengal first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
Arabian entertainment, with its deep roots in history and culture, weaves a mesmerizing tapestry that captivates audiences around the globe. From the enchanting tales of One Thousand and One Nights to the rhythmic beats of traditional music and the graceful movements of dance, Arabian entertainment is a celebration of diversity, heritage, and the timeless allure of the Middle East. This article delves into the multifaceted world of […]
By Rahil Nora Chopra After the recent release of caste-based survey data and increasing the reservation limit for the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, other backward castes and extremely backward castes from 50 per cent to 65 per cent, now Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar has declared that he would run a campaign to demand the […]
The post CM Nitish Kumar Reiterates Demand For Bihar’s Special Status first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By Rahil Nora Chopra For Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and RJD Chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, the prime supporters of the caste survey in the state, the result has been a strengthening of the ruling Mahagathbandhan’s social support base among Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs) and Dalits, fulfilling a significant promise to […]
The post Post Caste Census, JD(U)-RJD Further Consolidate Support Base first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh have turned into a decisive political battlefield. The way Prime Minister Narendra Modi is posturing and positioning himself now, signify it, as well as his very high stakes, as if it would be do or die battle for him, since he will be seeking third term […]
The post PM Narendra Modi’s Political Postures Signify His Stakes Very High first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By Sushil Kutty The Nijjar killing is now a row. After India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called out Canada’s hypocrisy and the United States’ double standards, Canada sought to balance with “We cannot bend rules” for anybody. This at the United Nations General Assembly. India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar got to speak first […]
The post Western Nations, Especially USA Are Known For Their Double Standards first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
By Sushil Kutty For the misogynist, waking up on Ganesh Chaturthi morning was disappointing. Overnight the Modi Cabinet had, during the course of an unscheduled meeting, cleared the Women’s Reservation Bill, which had been lying dormant for years much to the giddy happiness of male chauvinists, who deep down in their hearts saw women’s empowerment […]
The post Presenting Women Reservation Bill In Special Session Is A Milestone In Indian Democracy first appeared on Latest India news, analysis and reports on IPA Newspack.
