5179: RBI may wait for now, MC Eco Pulse shows resilience and Indian equity valuations | MC Editor's Picks

India’s economy is entering a more uncertain phase, with expectations of future RBI rate hikes building amid high crude prices, a weakening rupee and sticky inflation. Even so, manufacturing, exports and rural demand are showing signs of resilience. Markets remain expensive despite the recent correction, while companies are avoiding price hikes for fear of hurting demand and profitability. Swiggy’s restructuring plans have run into shareholder resistance, highlighting growing governance scrutiny in the startup sector. Stress is also emerging in lending and energy markets, with tighter credit policies, falling coal inventories and rising dependence on gold loans reflecting caution across the economy.