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INFLATION, ALONG WITH EXTERNAL HEADWINDS, POSES CHALLENGES TO INDIA’S GROWTH PROSPECTS – DUN & BRADSTREET

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MUMBAI, India, Dec. 6, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Dun & Bradstreet, a global leader in business decisioning data and analytics, has released its Economy Observer report for November 2024. Economy Observer is a monthly report that shares an in-depth analysis on key macroeconomic developments in India and provides a monthly forecast of key economic indicators, providing insight into the expected direction of the Indian economy for the upcoming month. 

Key economic forecast:

Real Economy:

India’s Index of Industrial Production (IIP) grew by 3.1% year-over-year in September 2024, recovering from a 0.1% contraction in August, driven primarily by a 3.9% expansion in the manufacturing sector due to rising demand and economic recovery. However, the outlook remains fragile as mining and electricity registered sluggish growth of just 0.2% and 0.5%, hampered by aging infrastructure, volatile commodity prices, rising fuel costs, and ongoing supply chain disruptions. Intermediate goods grew by 4.2%, indicating strong demand for manufacturing inputs, while consumer durables rose by 6.5%, reflecting robust demand in urban and rural markets. Despite these gains, Dun & Bradstreet expects IIP to slow down to 2.8% in October, citing weakened output in key sectors, persistent supply chain issues, and rising input costs, suggesting the recent growth may be short-lived.

Price Scenario: Consumer price inflation (CPI) rose to 6.2% in October 2024, up from 5.5% in September, while wholesale price inflation (WPI) increased to 2.3% from 1.8%. The main driver was a 13.5% rise in food prices, continuing the trend from September. The primary articles index, including food and essentials, grew 8.1%. Food and beverages, which account for 45.9% of CPI, remains a key inflation driver due to supply-side issues and high demand for cereals, oils, and vegetables. Global energy price hikes, especially of crude oil, have further contributed to inflation. Dun & Bradstreet forecasts WPI inflation to moderate to 2.5% in November 2024, but CPI is expected to remain high at 6.5%, well above the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) targets. Uncertainty around energy costs persists, though falling oil and gas prices amid geopolitical tensions could help ease some inflationary pressures.

Money & Finance: Investor confidence remains steady amid global uncertainties and inflation. Dun & Bradstreet expects the 91-day Treasury Bill yield to stabilise at 6.5% in November 2024, while the 10-year G-Sec yield will likely stay around 6.8%. Short-term yields have eased slightly, but long-term yields remain stable, suggesting a cautious outlook with no immediate rate hikes. Meanwhile global economic factors and geopolitical risks will continue to influence India’s bond market.

Credit growth is projected to moderate to 12.7% in November 2024, as the RBI prioritises inflation control and financial stability. Despite ample liquidity, tighter credit conditions are expected, reflecting the RBI’s cautious approach to prevent overheating and maintain asset quality. This balanced policy is expected to support growth while managing inflation risks.

External Sector: India’s external sector faces pressures from decelerating foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows, constrained export growth due to global competition and weaker demand, and a widening fiscal and current account deficit driven by high oil and commodity imports. This has increased demand for foreign currencies, contributing to the depreciation of the Indian Rupee (INR) against the US Dollar (USD), Dun & Bradstreet expects INR to reach 84.5 per USD by December 2024. Factors such as slower global growth, rising commodity prices, and a stronger USD will continue to weigh on the currency. However, India’s strong domestic growth prospects, resilient banking system, and diversified economy offer some protection against a sharper decline in the rupee.

Dr. Arun Singh, Global Chief Economist, Dun & Bradstreet said, “India’s economic outlook for November 2024 shows resilience amid challenges. While industrial production is indicating signs of recovery, growth will likely slow down due to seasonal factors and struggles in the mining and electricity sector. Inflation, driven by rising food and energy costs, remains a concern, which is likely to prompt the RBI to assume a cautious stance. A weaker rupee and falling foreign inflows add pressure on inflation, though strong forex reserves provide some buffer. The economy remains vulnerable to external shocks and rising import demand. Effective policy management is key to balancing inflation, external risks, and growth.”

D&B’s Economy Observer Forecast

Variables

Forecast

Latest Period

Previous period

IIP Growth

2.8% Oct-24

3.09% Sep-24

-0.14% Aug-24

Inflation WPI

2.5% Nov-24

2.36% Oct-24

1.84% Sep-24

CPI (Combined)

6.5% Nov-24

6.21% Oct-24

5.49% Sep-24

Exchange Rate (INR/USD) **

84.5 Dec-24

84.4 Nov-24

84.03 Oct-24

91-day T-Bills*

6.5% Nov-24

6.46% Oct-24

6.64% Sep-24

10-year G-Sec Yield*

6.82% Nov-24

6.79% Oct-24

6.84% Sep-24

Bank Credit

12.7% Nov-24

13.1% Oct-24

13.0% Sep-24

*Weekly Average ** Dun and Bradstreet Forecasts

About Dun & Bradstreet:

Dun & Bradstreet, a leading global provider of business decisioning data and analytics, enables companies around the world to improve their business performance. Dun & Bradstreet’s Data Cloud fuels solutions and delivers insights that empower customers to accelerate revenue, lower cost, mitigate risk and transform their businesses. Since 1841, companies of every size have relied on Dun & Bradstreet to help them manage risk and reveal opportunity. For more information on Dun & Bradstreet, please visit www.dnb.com.

Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India Private Limited is headquartered in Mumbai and provides clients with data-driven products and technology-driven platforms to help them take faster and more accurate decisions across finance, risk, compliance, information technology and marketing. Working towards Government of India’s vision of creating an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) by supporting the Make in India initiative, Dun & Bradstreet India has a special focus on helping entrepreneurs enhance their visibility, increase their credibility, expand access to global markets, and identify potential customers & suppliers, while managing risk and opportunity.

India is also the home to Dun & Bradstreet Technology & Corporate Services LLP, which is the Global Capabilities Center (GCC) of Dun & Bradstreet supporting global technology delivery using cutting-edge technology. Located at Hyderabad, the GCC has a highly skilled workforce of over 500 employees, and focuses on enhanced productivity, economies of scale, consistent delivery processes and lower operating expenses.

Visit www.dnb.co.in for more information.

Click here for all Dun & Bradstreet India press releases.

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STEPHEN A. SMITH ADDRESSES WHITE HOUSE DINNER ATTENDANCE, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO HBCUs AND PROTECTING CORPORATE INVESTMENT IN BLACK EDUCATION

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October 24, 2026

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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stephen A. Smith, media mogul, New York Times bestselling author, and proud 1991 graduate of Winston-Salem State University, is addressing the public discussion surrounding his decision to attend a White House dinner with President Donald Trump, emphasizing his commitment to the long-term financial stability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For Smith, the decision was rooted in a commitment to institutions that have educated generations of Black leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and public servants.

“I will always advocate for HBCUs and the students whose futures depend on them,” Smith said. “My reason for attending the White House dinner was to discuss the challenges these institutions face in securing long-term funding and to make the case that corporate America must continue to invest in them.”

Smith acknowledged federal support through the FUTURE Act while expressing concern that political tensions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) could discourage private companies from supporting HBCUs. He maintains that these institutions deserve sustained corporate partnerships, philanthropic contributions, and public investment.

“If we truly believe in free-market capitalism, businesses should be able to support educational institutions and charitable causes without fear of criticism or repercussions,” Smith said. “HBCUs have made extraordinary contributions to this country. They deserve sustained public and private investment.”

Ashley Christopher, Esq., Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, recognized Smith’s advocacy and decision to engage with the administration.

“Stephen A. Smith has been a powerful advocate for HBCUs, using his platform and influence to shine a national spotlight on our institutions,” expressed Christopher, “His continued support of HBCU Week helps advance our mission of connecting students with life-changing educational opportunities, and we are proud to have him as our ambassador.”

Since Smith became an HBCU Week Ambassador in 2019, the initiative has facilitated more than 15,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and raised and awarded more than $150 million in scholarships, according to the HBCU Week Foundation.

As public discussion continues, Smith is emphasizing the importance of ensuring HBCUs have the resources and partnerships needed to educate future generations and expand opportunities for students.

CLICK HERE to watch Smith’s full response to his White House visit.

MEDIA CONTACT:

media@mrsasinc.com

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SOURCE Straight Shooter Media

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Advantex Announces Completion of Financing and Extension of Maturity Date of Previously Issued Debentures

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October 24, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct. 23, 2026 /CNW/ — Advantex Marketing International Inc. (CSE: ADX) (“Advantex”), a leader in the merchant cash advance and loyalty marketing products for merchants, today announced the completion of a $250,000 secured debt financing. Advantex issued a $250,000 non-convertible debenture which bears an interest rate at 12% per annum and matures December 15, 2027. The proceeds raised from this issuance of the Debenture will be used for working capital purposes.

Advantex has also extended the maturity of its existing $700,000 in 12% secured debentures from October 10, 2026 to December 15, 2027.

About Advantex Marketing International Inc.

Advantex provides working capital to merchants. Advantex also provides specialized marketing programs that enable members of Aeroplan to earn Aeroplan points at participating merchants.

Advantex shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol ADX. For more information go to Advantex’s profile on www.sedar.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws relating to the future business and operations of Advantex. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements. The business and operations of Advantex described herein is dependent on a number of factors and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ material include, but are not limited to, changes in Advantex’s economic and competitive conditions including but not limited to the industry sectors in which Advantex operates.

The statements in this news release are made of the date of this release. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date the statements are made and Advantex undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Advantex Marketing International Inc.

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Club Offers for Travel Enthusiasts in Canada

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1 hour ago

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October 23, 2026

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TORONTO, Oct 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), the club for travel enthusiasts, announces three of many new Club Offers for Club Members in Canada.

Rigorously vetted and negotiated for us travel enthusiasts:

$799—COSTA RICA WEEK WITH FLIGHTS & CAR
We think fall is an ideal time to visit Costa Rica; the scenery is lush and the crowds are gone. Drive between volcanic Arenal and the idyllic beaches of Tamarindo on this seven-night trip. Since it’s not as busy, we were able to negotiate a price that saves members up to $648 on departures through mid-December.

$899—BARCELONA: 5 NIGHTS WITH FLIGHTS
Explore Barcelona’s world-class museums and architectural masterpieces in the quieter winter months to pack more into your trip. You won’t waste hours in lines and can access top restaurants that are fully booked in summer. We save $300 on travel this January and February, when temperatures are still spring-like. Roundtrip flights from Toronto, hotel and daily breakfast are included.

$999—ST. KITTS GETAWAY FOR 2, REG. $2083
Most visitors to St. Kitts book months in advance, but when we pointed out that travel enthusiasts are more spontaneous, this resort gave us a terrific rate for stays this November and December. Spend four nights in Frigate Bay and get an upgraded Oceanview room, too.

Are you a travel enthusiast? Join the club today: https://travelzoo.com

Who are we?
We, Travelzoo®, are the club for travel enthusiasts. We reach 30 million travellers. Club Members receive Club Offers negotiated and rigorously vetted by our deal experts around the globe. Our relationships with thousands of top travel companies give us access to irresistible deals. Our club and its benefits are built around the lifestyle of a modern travel enthusiast.

Media Contact: 
Amanda Ieraci – Toronto
+1 437 866 8540
aieraci@travelzoo.com

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SOURCE Travelzoo

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