Bitcoin Price Trends: Predicting the Future After the Next Halving

In the realm of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin has proven its resilience and captivating potential over the years. One crucial event that has a significant impact on Bitcoin’s price is the halving. This blog post aims to explore the expected price trends following the next halving event, offering insights and predictions based on historical data, market analysis, and the time remaining until the next halving.

1. Understanding Bitcoin Halving:

Bitcoin halving is a pre-programmed event that occurs approximately every four years, reducing the block reward miners receive for validating transactions. The halving aims to maintain scarcity and control inflation. With each halving, the issuance of new Bitcoins decreases, impacting the supply and potentially influencing the price.

2. Historical Patterns and Price Trends:

Analyzing previous halving events, we can observe consistent patterns. The first halving in 2012 and the second in 2016 triggered substantial price increases, with Bitcoin reaching new all-time highs. These events attracted significant media attention, market speculation, and investor interest, leading to a surge in demand.

3. The Time Remaining until the Next Halving:

As of the current date, the time remaining until the next Bitcoin halving is subject to the specific date of the article’s publication. Please refer to reliable sources or dedicated Bitcoin halving countdown websites to determine the precise time remaining until the next halving event.

4. Factors Influencing Price Trends:

a. Supply and Demand Dynamics: As the supply of newly minted Bitcoins decreases, assuming demand remains constant or increases, the reduced supply can drive the price upward due to scarcity.

b. Market Sentiment: Investor sentiment and market perception play a vital role in Bitcoin’s price trends. Positive news, institutional adoption, regulatory developments, and general market sentiment can contribute to bullish trends.

c. Network Activity: Bitcoin’s network activity, including transaction volume, miner participation, and overall adoption, can indicate the health and potential value of the network.

5. Expert Opinions and Predictions:

Experts’ opinions on Bitcoin’s price after the next halving are varied. Some believe that historical patterns suggest another significant price surge, potentially pushing Bitcoin to new all-time highs. Others highlight the increasing mainstream adoption, the potential for institutional investment, and the growing recognition of Bitcoin as a store of value, supporting long-term positive price trends.

6. Potential Challenges and Risks:

a. Market Volatility: Bitcoin’s price is notoriously volatile, and post-halving periods may experience significant price swings. Traders and investors should be prepared for short-term market fluctuations.

b. Regulatory Uncertainty: Regulatory changes or government interventions in the cryptocurrency space can impact Bitcoin’s price and market sentiment.

c. Technological Developments: Technological advancements, such as scalability solutions or competing cryptocurrencies, could potentially influence Bitcoin’s position in the market.

7. Diversifying Investment Strategies:

Investors should consider diversifying their cryptocurrency portfolios beyond Bitcoin to mitigate risks. Exploring other established cryptocurrencies or promising altcoins may provide additional opportunities for growth.

Conclusion:

While predicting Bitcoin’s exact price after the next halving event is challenging, historical patterns, market analysis, and expert opinions offer insights into potential price trends. Factors such as supply and demand dynamics, market sentiment, network activity, and the time remaining until the next halving will continue to shape Bitcoin’s future. Investors should approach the post-halving period with a long-term perspective, considering both the opportunities and risks associated with this dynamic and evolving cryptocurrency. By staying informed and understanding the nuances of the market, individuals can make more informed decisions regarding their Bitcoin investments.

Will Shiba Inu (SHIB) Reach $0.01? Examining the Potential and Factors at Play

Introduction:

Shiba Inu (SHIB), a cryptocurrency that gained significant attention and popularity, has sparked debates and discussions about its future potential. Among the many questions asked by investors and enthusiasts is whether SHIB will reach $0.01. In this blog post, we'll delve into the factors that could influence SHIB's price trajectory and explore the possibilities.

1. Understanding Shiba Inu (SHIB):

Shiba Inu is an ERC-20 token on the Ethereum blockchain, inspired by the popular dog breed and meme culture. It gained notoriety for its decentralized community and the "Dogecoin Killer" narrative. While it's impossible to predict future price movements with certainty, examining various factors can shed light on the potential for SHIB to reach $0.01.

2. Market Sentiment and Demand:

Cryptocurrency prices are heavily influenced by market sentiment and demand. The interest and enthusiasm surrounding SHIB can play a significant role in its price movement. Positive developments, community engagement, and increased adoption could generate demand and potentially push the price upward. However, market sentiment can be volatile, and it's crucial to consider the dynamic nature of the crypto market.

3. Tokenomics and Supply Dynamics:

Understanding the tokenomics of SHIB is essential when assessing its price potential. SHIB has a large total supply, which can impact its price dynamics. Achieving a specific price target like $0.01 would require substantial demand and trading volume. Factors such as token burns, utility enhancements, and community-driven initiatives can influence supply dynamics and affect the overall market perception.

4. Market Volatility and External Factors:

Cryptocurrencies are known for their price volatility, and SHIB is no exception. External factors, including broader market trends, regulatory developments, and investor sentiment towards the crypto industry, can significantly impact SHIB's price trajectory. It's important to be mindful of these factors and their potential influence on the overall cryptocurrency market.

5. Risk and Considerations:

Investing in cryptocurrencies carries inherent risks. While some investors may anticipate SHIB reaching $0.01, it's crucial to approach such predictions with caution. Cryptocurrency markets can be highly speculative, and price movements are often unpredictable. It's advisable to conduct thorough research, consider multiple perspectives, and only invest funds you can afford to lose.

Conclusion:

Predicting whether Shiba Inu (SHIB) will reach $0.01 is a challenging task due to the dynamic nature of the cryptocurrency market. While positive market sentiment, demand, and community-driven initiatives can contribute to price growth, it's important to approach price predictions with caution and consider the risks involved. Investors should conduct their own research, stay informed about market developments, and make informed decisions based on their individual risk tolerance and investment strategies. As with any investment, diversification and a long-term perspective are key to navigating the crypto landscape successfully.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry inherent risks, and it's crucial to conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Shibarium: The Rise of a Playful and Community-Driven Crypto Experiment

Cryptocurrencies have taken the financial world by storm, with innovations and unique projects constantly emerging. One such project that has gained attention and captured the imagination of crypto enthusiasts is Shibarium. In this blog post, we'll dive into the fascinating world of Shibarium, exploring its origins, its playful nature, and the vibrant community that surrounds it.

1. Understanding Shibarium:

Shibarium is a decentralized experiment inspired by the popular cryptocurrency Shiba Inu (SHIB). It aims to combine the principles of blockchain technology and the enthusiasm of the Shiba Inu community to create a unique ecosystem. Shibarium operates on the Ethereum blockchain, leveraging its smart contract capabilities to introduce innovative features and utilities.

2. The Playful Nature of Shibarium:

Shibarium embraces a lighthearted and playful approach, mirroring the Shiba Inu community's vibrant spirit. It incorporates elements of gamification, where users can participate in various activities and interact with the ecosystem in entertaining ways. From earning and collecting unique digital assets to engaging in decentralized applications (dApps), Shibarium seeks to provide a fun and immersive experience for its participants.

3. Shibarium Features and Utilities:

a) ShibaSwap: Shibarium offers ShibaSwap, a decentralized exchange where users can swap, stake, and provide liquidity for various tokens within the Shibarium ecosystem. ShibaSwap provides an opportunity to earn rewards and actively participate in the community's growth.

b) NFT Marketplace: Shibarium boasts an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) marketplace, where users can buy, sell, and trade digital collectibles. These NFTs can represent artwork, in-game assets, or other unique digital items, allowing users to express their creativity and individuality.

c) Community Governance: The Shibarium community actively participates in decision-making processes through decentralized governance mechanisms. Token holders can vote on proposals, shaping the future direction of the ecosystem and ensuring a democratic approach to its development.

4. The Power of Community:

At the heart of Shibarium's success lies its passionate and engaged community. Members share a common interest in the Shiba Inu brand, digital assets, and the potential of blockchain technology. They come together on various social platforms, including Discord, Telegram, and dedicated online forums, fostering connections, sharing insights, and supporting one another.

5. Risks and Considerations:

While Shibarium offers an exciting and playful crypto experience, it's important to be aware of potential risks and exercise caution. As with any investment or participation in the crypto space, it's advisable to conduct thorough research, understand the associated risks, and only invest what you can afford to lose. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of the crypto industry, market volatility and regulatory uncertainties should be considered as well.

Conclusion:

Shibarium represents an innovative and community-driven experiment that combines the enthusiasm of the Shiba Inu community with the power of blockchain technology. With its playful nature, unique features, and vibrant community, Shibarium offers a captivating and engaging experience for crypto enthusiasts. As the project evolves and expands, it will be fascinating to see how the playful world of Shibarium continues to push the boundaries and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and speculative investments, and it is essential to do your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Navigating the Roller Coaster Ride: Exploring the Thrills and Challenges of the Indian Stock Market

 Introduction:

Welcome to the world of the Indian stock market, where fortunes are made and adrenaline levels can skyrocket. It's a thrilling arena where investors, traders, and dreamers come together to navigate the highs and lows of the financial roller coaster. In this blog article, we'll take a closer look at the Indian stock market, its unique characteristics, key players, and some essential tips for those brave enough to embark on this exhilarating journey.

1. Understanding the Indian Stock Market:

The Indian stock market, primarily represented by two major exchanges, the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE), serves as a platform for companies to raise capital and investors to buy and sell securities. It's a dynamic marketplace that reflects the pulse of the Indian economy and influences global investment trends.

2. Key Players in the Indian Stock Market:

a) Investors: From individual retail investors to institutional giants, a diverse range of participants contribute to the Indian stock market's vibrancy. Understanding the different investment styles, such as value investing, growth investing, and day trading, can help investors choose the right path.

b) Companies: Indian corporations from various sectors, including technology, finance, manufacturing, and more, offer their shares to the public. Analyzing company fundamentals, financial statements, and market trends can assist investors in making informed decisions.

c) Regulators: Regulatory bodies like the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) play a crucial role in maintaining transparency, integrity, and investor protection in the stock market. Their regulations and guidelines ensure fair practices and promote market stability.

3. Opportunities and Challenges:

a) Volatility: The Indian stock market is known for its volatility, with prices swinging both ways. This volatility can present tremendous opportunities for profit, but it also carries risks. Investors need to be prepared for market fluctuations and develop a long-term perspective.

b) Market Research: Conducting thorough research, analyzing company fundamentals, staying updated on market news, and understanding macroeconomic factors can help investors make well-informed decisions and identify potential winners.

c) Risk Management: Implementing risk management strategies, diversifying portfolios, and setting realistic expectations are crucial for navigating the stock market's ups and downs. Investors should avoid getting swayed by emotions and practice disciplined investing.

4. Tips for Success:

a) Education and Learning: Continuously improving financial literacy is essential. Understanding key financial concepts, reading books, attending seminars, and following reputable financial news sources can enhance investment knowledge and decision-making abilities.

b) Patience and Discipline: Successful investors in the Indian stock market know the value of patience and discipline. They resist the temptation of quick gains, focus on long-term goals, and adhere to their investment strategies even during turbulent times.

c) Seek Professional Advice: For those who feel overwhelmed or lack the time and expertise to manage their investments, seeking guidance from certified financial planners or investment advisors can be a wise move.

Conclusion:

The Indian stock market is a thrilling and complex ecosystem that presents both opportunities and challenges. By understanding its dynamics, staying informed, and adopting prudent investment practices, individuals can embark on this exhilarating journey with confidence. Remember, the stock market is not merely a game of chance but a realm where knowledge, strategy, and perseverance can lead to financial success. So, fasten your seatbelts, keep a keen eye on market trends, and get ready to enjoy the wild ride that is the Indian stock market!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Always do your own research and consult with a qualified professional before making investment decisions.

Bitcoin VAT to be scrapped by HMRC

The Bitcoin community is targeting the "last barrier" of financial regulation after HMRC was today expected to agree to scrap VAT on the digital currency.

It was reported in January that HMRC was considering exempting Bitcoin from VAT liabilities by reclassifying it to something similar to a fiat currency, and it is expected to confirm the change this week after a meeting with British Bitcoin traders.

It means that businesses would no longer be forced to pay the 20% VAT rate on all revenues held in the currency over a threshold of £79,000 - something seen as a barrier to international competitiveness.

Members of the UK Digital Currency Association (UKDCA), which held the talks with HMRC, hailed the decision and predicted that it will pressurise the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to publish guidance on Bitcoin.

Tom Robinson, UKDCA director and co-founder of Bitcoin insured storage firm Elliptic Vault, said: "It's a very progressive view. The decision really puts pressure on the FCA because if it's money, then they should be regulating it.

"The last barrier is financial regulation. The only issue is the FCA still refuses to say anything about it."

He added that the UKDCA has heard nothing from the authority since a meeting between the parties last year.

A spokesman for the body simply told CBR it is keeping a close eye on developments.

He said: "Whilst the FCA does not regulate Bitcoins, businesses providing services related to bitcoins, or other digital currencies, should consider whether they are carrying on regulated activities. As you would expect, the FCA does closely watch new developments in the market."

HMRC's decision comes at a time when the Bitcoin Foundation, a not-for-profit group that develops the software behind the currency, is allegedly preparing to move its headquarters from the US to the UK this spring.

And UKDCA member, and CEO of Bitcoin integration firm Bitcoin Solutions, Gary Rowe, said the news could promote Britain as a hub for cryptocurrency businesses.

"The guidance from HMRC is a major step forward," he said. "I hope that this will show people that the UK is Bitcoin-friendly.

"It's a big green light for business in the UK regarding Bitcoin. The next big thing is guidance from the FCA. It doesn't have to be anything new or special, it just has to treat it the same as anything else."

He said FCA regulation would prove to people that the digital medium of exchange is safe to use, and hopes it could formalise Bitcoin exchanges after Mt. Gox closed following the alleged loss of $350m worth of bitcoins.

"Anybody in the Bitcoin business knew Mt. Gox was going downhill. They had serious problems," Rowe said. "Exchanges should be in the hands of the professionals. Imagine if the LSE took over Bitcoin."

But IDC analyst Alex Kwiatkowski told CBR people should remain sceptical of the currency.

The head of financial insights for Europe said: "The volatility of Bitcoin - not just its price but the collapse of various supporting elements vital to the currency's existence (i.e. Mt. Gox) - should make businesses wary of piling in to something which is still going through the painful teething process."

However, Robinson claimed that Bitcoin is robust, adding that price fluctuations should settle once it is more widely adopted - something he believes will happen if the FCA publishes guidance.

Bitcoins being accepted at Australian jeweller: Shiels Jewellers

This will be first Australian jewellery retailer to accept Bitcoin's digital currency for online sales. Adelaide-based Shiels recently joined the list and its managing director Toby Bensimon said it has been receiving one or two transactions per day through the online currency.

Shiels has an online store that conducts a large number of transactions every day. The number of sales with Bitcoin is still very small, but Sheils believes that the future  opportunities it presents are huge.&nbsp

Bitcoins being accepted at Indian online retailer Highkart

HighKart.com will be the first e-commerce website in India to accept 'Bitcoin payment' for products. 
They sell various products across various categories including mobiles, cameras, and computers with a lot more to come.

Highkart website says that "For people who own Bitcoins, it has become more of a saving rather than them putting them into some use, as in India; there was no other option till date. We wanted people to use Bitcoin in their day to day lives, thus helping them to be less dependent on the fiat currency which is fast depreciating! And making it a commodity in process."

"With Bitcoin the number of benefits associated are many, including very low / nil transaction fees, no chargebacks and no delays for starting to accept with an unprecedented security factor.There is no need to look it at as a barrier as with technology up-gradation, advancement and acceptability it will have a much larger user base than usual payment systems. We are working very hard and with great community support looking forward to make the cryptocurrency as mainstream currency and not just virtual currency. " says Amit Kumar, the CEO of High kart

On being able to manage the volatility of bitocin Amit said "We do not store Bitcoin with us and with great support from our payment processor we are able to encash it on same day, which reduces any kind of risk involved due to volatility of Bitcoin."

http://highkart.com/

India vs. Pakistan : Economy Comparison

GDP (purchasing power parity)	$4.735 trillion (2012 est.) $4.492 trillion (2011 est.) $4.205 trillion (2010 est.) note: data are in 2012 US dollars	$514.6 billion (2012 est.) $496.3 billion (2011 est.) $481.7 billion (2010 est.) note: data are in 2012 US dollars
GDP - real growth rate	5.4% (2012 est.) 6.8% (2011 est.) 10.1% (2010 est.)	3.7% (2012 est.) 3% (2011 est.) 3.1% (2010 est.)
GDP - per capita (PPP)	$3,900 (2012 est.) $3,700 (2011 est.) $3,500 (2010 est.) note: data are in 2012 US dollars	$2,900 (2012 est.) $2,800 (2011 est.) $2,800 (2010 est.) note: data are in 2012 US dollars
GDP - composition by sector	agriculture: 17% industry: 18% services: 65% (2011 est.)	agriculture: 20.1% industry: 25.5% services: 54.4% (2012 est.)
Population below poverty line	29.8% (2010 est.)	22.3% (FY05/06 est.)
Household income or consumption by percentage share	lowest 10%: 3.6% highest 10%: 31.1% (2005)	lowest 10%: 9.9% highest 10%: 39.3% (FY07/08)
Inflation rate (consumer prices)	9.2% (2012 est.) 8.9% (2011 est.)	11.3% (2012 est.) 11.9% (2011 est.)
Labor force	498.4 million (2012 est.)	60.36 million note: extensive export of labor, mostly to the Middle East, and use of child labor (2012 est.)
Labor force - by occupation	agriculture: 53% industry: 19% services: 28% (2011 est.)	agriculture: 45.1% industry: 20.7% services: 34.2% (2010 est.)
Unemployment rate	9.9% (2012 est.) 9.8% (2011 est.)	5.6% (2012 est.) 5.6% (2011 est.) note: substantial underemployment exists
Distribution of family income - Gini index	36.8 (2004) 37.8 (1997)	30.6 (FY07/08) 41 (FY98/99)
Budget	revenues: $171.5 billion expenditures: $281 billion (2012 est.)	revenues: $29.51 billion expenditures: $44.19 billion (2012 est.)
Industries	textiles, chemicals, food processing, steel, transportation equipment, cement, mining, petroleum, machinery, software, pharmaceuticals	textiles and apparel, food processing, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, paper products, fertilizer, shrimp
Industrial production growth rate	4.8% (2011 est.)	3% (2011 est.)
Agriculture - products	rice, wheat, oilseed, cotton, jute, tea, sugarcane, lentils, onions, potatoes; dairy products, sheep, goats, poultry; fish	cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; milk, beef, mutton, eggs
Exports	$309.1 billion (2012 est.) $305 billion (2011 est.)	$24.66 billion (2012 est.) $26.3 billion (2011 est.)
Exports - commodities	petroleum products, precious stones, machinery, iron and steel, chemicals, vehicles, apparel	textiles (garments, bed linen, cotton cloth, yarn), rice, leather goods, sports goods, chemicals, manufactures, carpets and rugs
Exports - partners	UAE 12.7%, US 10.8%, China 6.2%, Singapore 5.3%, Hong Kong 4.1% (2011)	US 15%, UAE 9.7%, Afghanistan 9.5%, China 9.2%, UK 5%, Germany 4.5% (2012 est.)
Imports	$500.3 billion (2012 est.) $490 billion (2011 est.)	$40.82 billion (2012 est.) $38.93 billion (2011 est.)
Imports - commodities	crude oil, precious stones, machinery, fertilizer, iron and steel, chemicals	petroleum, petroleum products, machinery, plastics, transportation equipment, edible oils, paper and paperboard, iron and steel, tea
Imports - partners	China 11.9%, UAE 7.7%, Switzerland 6.8%, Saudi Arabia 6.1%, US 4.9% (2011)	UAE 17.2%, China 15%, Saudi Arabia 11.2%, Kuwait 8.9%, Malaysia 5.4%, Japan 4.3% (2012 est.)
Debt - external	$299.2 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $287.5 billion (31 December 2011 est.)	$55.98 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $58.27 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Exchange rates	Indian rupees (INR) per US dollar - 53.17 (2012 est.) 46.671 (2011 est.) 45.726 (2010 est.) 48.405 (2009) 43.319 (2008)	Pakistani rupees (PKR) per US dollar - 95.1 (2012 est.) 86.3434 (2011 est.) 85.194 (2010 est.) 81.71 (2009) 70.64 (2008)
Fiscal year	1 April - 31 March	1 July - 30 June
Investment (gross fixed)	30% of GDP (2012 est.)	10.9% of GDP (2012 est.)
Public debt	51.9% of GDP (2012 est.) 50.5% of GDP (2011 est.) note: data cover central government debt, and exclude debt instruments issued (or owned) by government entities other than the treasury; the data include treasury debt held by foreign entities; the data exclude debt issued by subnational entities, as well as intra-governmental debt; intra-governmental debt consists of treasury borrowings from surpluses in the social funds, such as for retirement, medical care, and unemployment; debt instruments for the social funds are not sold at public auctions	50.4% of GDP (2012 est.) 60.1% of GDP (2011 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold	$287.2 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $297.9 billion (31 December 2011 est.)	$13.5 billion (30 November 2012 est.) $18.09 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Current Account Balance	-$80.15 billion (2012 est.) -$46.91 billion (2011 est.)	-$4.632 billion (2012 est.) $268 million (2011 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate)	$1.947 trillion (2012 est.)	$230.5 billion (2012 est.)
Stock of direct foreign investment - at home	$256.6 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $232.7 billion (31 December 2011 est.)	$22.38 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $21.88 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Stock of direct foreign investment - abroad	$121.3 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $106.3 billion (31 December 2011 est.)	$1.482 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $1.432 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Market value of publicly traded shares	$1.015 trillion (31 December 2011) $1.616 trillion (31 December 2010) $1.179 trillion (31 December 2009)	$32.76 billion (31 December 2011) $38.17 billion (31 December 2010) $33.24 billion (31 December 2009)
Central bank discount rate	5.5% (31 December 2010 est.) 6% (31 December 2009 est.) note: the Indian central bank's policy rate - the repurchase rate - was 8% during December 2012	12% (31 January 2012 est.) 14% (31 December 2010 est.)
Commercial bank prime lending rate	10.8% (31 December 2012 est.) 10.19% (31 December 2011 est.)	12.2% (31 December 2012 est.) 14.12% (31 December 2011 est.)
Stock of money	$278.8 billion (31 December 2009) $239.8 billion (31 December 2008)	$NA (31 December 2008) $52.76 billion (31 December 2007)
Stock of quasi money	$853.4 billion (31 December 2009) $687.7 billion (31 December 2008)	$NA (31 December 2008) $18.42 billion (31 December 2007)
Stock of domestic credit	$1.402 trillion (31 December 2012 est.) $1.249 trillion (31 December 2011 est.)	$92.06 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $86.19 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Stock of narrow money	$342.3 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $305.7 billion (31 December 2011 est.)	$60.68 billion (31 December 2012 est.) $56.34 billion (31 December 2011 est.)
Stock of broad money	$1.451 trillion (31 December 2012 est.) $1.293 trillion (31 December 2011 est.)	$76.16 billion (31 December 2011 est.) $71.36 billion (31 December 2010 est.)
Taxes and other revenues	8.8% of GDP (2012 est.)	12.8% of GDP (2012 est.)
Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-)	-5.6% of GDP (2012 est.)	-6.4% of GDP (2012 est.)
Unemployment, youth ages 15-24	total: 10.5% male: 10.4% female: 10.8% (2004)	total: 7.7% male: 7% female: 10.5% (2008)

China's weak exports surprise everyone

China warned on Wednesday of a

"grim" outlook for trade as the world's second-largest economy surprised financial markets by reporting a fall in exports and imports when both had been expected to rise.

The figures, which follow a government crackdown on the use of fake invoicing that had exaggerated exports earlier this year, are likely to raise fresh concerns about the extent of the slowdown in the economy and global demand.

The June data, showing that exports fell 3.1 percent from a year earlier and imports dropped 0.7 percent, may now reflect the true trade picture, customs officials said.

"China faces relatively stern challenges in trade currently," customs spokesman Zheng Yuesheng told a news briefing on the June trade figures.

"Exports in the third quarter look grim," said Zheng.
The Australian dollar briefly fell about a third of a cent after the China data, reflecting worries about Chinese demand for Australia's commodities, such as iron ore and coal.

The MSCI Asia-Pacific ex-Japan index <.MIAPJ0000PUS> was up 0.5 percent after gaining as much as 1.2 percent to a one-week high before the trade figures came out.

The export fall was the first since January 2012. Economists had expected exports to increase 4.0 percent and imports to rise 8.0 percent.

China's trade data is volatile and has been distorted by speculative capital flows across the country's border. Doubts about the accuracy of the figures had abated slightly since the customs office and top foreign exchange regulator launched a campaign in May to crack down on fake export invoices.

Fake invoicing inflated China's official import and export totals by $75 billion in the first four months of 2013, local media reported on June 14, citing an internal review by China's commerce ministry.

The customs data showed that exports to the United States, China's biggest export market, fell 5.4 percent, while exports to the European Union dropped 8.3 percent.

"The surprisingly weak June exports show China's economy is facing increasing downward pressure on lacklustre external demand," said Li Huiyong, an economist at Shenyin & Wanguo Securities in Shanghai.

"Exports are facing challenges in the second half of this year. The appreciation of the U.S. dollar and the Chinese government's recent crackdown on speculative trade activities also put pressure on exports."

China had a trade surplus of $27.1 billion in June, the customs administration said, largely in line with the $27.0 billion expected by economists.

China's reform-minded new leaders have shown a tolerance of slower growth, although they still need to avoid widespread job losses that could threaten social stability.

Economists expect data next week to show that annual growth in China for the April-June quarter slowed down to 7.5 percent.

A continued slide in growth could test leaders' resolve to tolerate a short-term slowdown in the economy while pressing ahead with efforts to revamp the economy for the longer term.

BlackBerry CEO says outright sale of the company an option under consideration

BlackBerry Ltd signaled on Tuesday that a licensing deal, or even an outright sale of the company, was still a possibility, pleasing shareholders still reeling from the disappointing debut for its new line of smartphones.

Chief Executive Thorsten Heins, responding to a question about whether he was looking into strategic alternatives, said he is open to all options that create value for shareholders. He emphasized that the company has so far focused on creating value through the launch of its new devices powered by an all-new BlackBerry 10 operating system.

"This is a long-term transition for the company, but I can assure you that we're pushing very hard," Heins said at the company's annual shareholder meeting. "BlackBerry will pursue every opportunity to create value for shareholders."

His remarks that BlackBerry was also open to any and all licensing opportunities, sent shares higher in morning trading.

John Goldsmith, deputy head of equities at Montrusco Bolton, which owns more than 1.5 million BlackBerry shares, believes that BlackBerry may well be pressed into striking such a deal.

"I think they're on a very short leash," said Goldsmith, referring to BlackBerry's management. "I wouldn't be surprised if within the next two quarters there is a definitive announcement with regard to other options that this company could be looking at whether that's putting itself for sale or some other option."

The company's stock had dropped more than 30 percent after it posted disappointing second-quarter results in late June and forecast an operating loss in the current quarter.

A bigger concern for investors, was the fact that it sold fewer-than-expected BlackBerry 10 devices in their first full quarter on the market, offering little evidence that it could quickly win back market share from Apple Inc's iPhone, Samsung's <005930 .ks=""> Galaxy devices, and other phones powered by Google's Android operating system.

Even so, some investors believe many other companies would relish the prospect of getting their hands on the new platform.

"I can see why this guy is confident," said Ross Healy, a portfolio manager with MacNicol & Associates, whose clients own BlackBerry shares. "He is talking about partnerships and being open to talks and I don't think you say that unless you've really had a talk or two with interested parties - and that gives you some confidence."

At the meeting, held at BlackBerry's home base in Waterloo, Ontario, Heins conceded that BlackBerry has a tough road ahead as it attempts to turn around its fortunes, but he insisted it was on the right track.

Heins said BlackBerry was already seeing small signs of market-share gains in the top-end of the ultra-competitive smartphone market.

"Before you go into any strategic option, I think you have to create value. And the value of the company 15 months ago was way less than what it is today," he said.


CLOCK TICKING

Despite the company's confident tone, many investors agree that the clock is ticking for BlackBerry, which is caught in a squeeze on both the high- and low-ends of the smartphone market.

BlackBerry 10 devices hit store shelves this year just as the high-end smartphone segment had begun to show some signs of saturation. Last week, Samsung reported results that fell shy of expectations, while Apple earlier this year reported its first quarterly profit decline in more than a decade.

On the mid- to low end, competition is growing intense, with Chinese manufacturers such as Huawei Technologies [HWT.UL] and ZTE <000063 .sz=""> gaining ground.[ID:n3N0FA0WP][ID:nL2N0DA2DR]

Even so, BlackBerry said it remains determined to stick to its plan and is not re-thinking its strategy in any manner.

"We as a board remain completely supportive of management," said the company's chair, Barbara Stymiest, adding that she was confident the turnaround plan would succeed.

Shareholders voted on Tuesday to elect all the company's director nominees to its board. They also approved the plan to change the company's name to BlackBerry Ltd from Research In Motion Ltd, a move that had been announced in January.

BlackBerry shares closed almost 1 percent higher at $9.64 on the Nasdaq on Tuesday.

US debt expected to cross $17 trillion by April

The rate of increase in US external debt holidngs seems to be acceleration.

US total external debt has crossed its GDP figures in November 2011. It took hardly another year for it to add another trillion to cross $16 trillion in September 2012. Now in just 2 months, debt seems to have galloped by another 340 million.

At this rate by the end March or early April, it will cross the 17 trillion mark, making it 110 % of US GDP.

What is to be noted is that at teh current bond yields, it will easily consume almost 2 % of US GDP growth to pay off the interest of US's external borrowings.

Hence for US economy to growth by 1 % , it in fact has to effectively grow by 3 %.

OMCs Incurring Daily Under-Recoveries of Rs 420 Crore

The Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has reviewed international prices of crude oil and petroleum products during the 2nd Fortnight of November 2012. Accordingly, the under-recovery on High Speed Diesel (HSD) applicable for Ist fortnight of December effective 01.12.2012 has increased to Rs 10.03/Litre. This was Rs 9.06 per litre effective 16.11.2012 for 2nd fortnight of November 2012. In case of Domestic LPG the under-recovery for December 2012 has risen sharply to Rs 520.50/cylinder against Rs 478.50/ Cylinder for November 2012. The Under-recovery on PDS Kerosene too has remained at high level of Rs 30.93 per litre for December 2012, though slightly lower than Rs 31.30 per litre for November 2012             Product-wise Under-recoveries of Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs); Product Unit Under-recoveries effective December 01,  2012 (Effective 16.11.2012 to 30.11.2012) Diesel Rs/Litre                10.03      (9.06)              PDS Kerosene* Rs/Litre                 30.93     (31.30)    Domestic LPG* Rs/Cylinder             520.50  (478.50) *Additionally, a subsidy of Rs 0.82/Litre on PDS Kerosene and Rs 22.58/Cylinder on Domestic LPG is provided by the Government. The under-recoveries on these products are computed on monthly basis.  OMCs are currently (effective 01 December 2012) incurring daily under-recovery of about Rs 420 crore on the sale of Diesel, PDS Kerosene and Domestic LPG. This was Rs 412 crore per day for the previous fortnight effective 16.11.2012. Further, the OMC’s have reported the following under-recoveries during April-September 2012:  Product Under Recovery (Rs/Crore) 2012-13 (April-September  2012) 2011-12 2010-11 Diesel 52,711 81,192 34,706 PDS Kerosene 14,331 27,352 19,484 Domestic LPG 18,544 29,997 21,772 Petrol -- -- 2,227 Total 85,586 138,541 78,190  3. Details of average International FOB price and Exchange rates are: Particulars Unit Price on last trading day i.e., 30 November, 2012 (Previous trading day of 29.11.2012) Fortnight November)16-30, 2012 (previous fortnight 1 - 15/11/ 2012) Crude Oil (Indian Basket) ($/bbl)               109.51        ( 108.24)                   108.94  (106.69)         (Rs /bbl)             5971.58      ( 5974.85)                 6010.22(5797.53)       Exchange Rate (Rs/$)                54.53          ( 55.20)                                      55.17    (54.34)

Top Infrastructure Bonds

Following are the best infra bonds in India:

• IDFC Infrastructure Bonds
• L&T Infrastructure Bonds
• IDBI Flexibonds
• IIFCL Long Term Infrastructure Bonds
• IFCI Infrastructure Bonds
• ICICI Safety Bonds
• REC Tax Saving Infrastructure Bonds

Right now, IFCI is providing the best in terms of interest rates with 9.09% for its 10 years bonds and 9.16% for the 15 year infra bonds. REC investors can expect a rate of 8.95% for the 10 year bonds, PTC India Financial investors will receive 8.93% for the same bonds, and for the SREI Infra Finance investors the rate is 8.90%. The rate for 15 year bonds for the three companies is 9.15%. 

REC enjoys a credit rating of AAA, which implies that it offers the most security for its investors especially in factors such as timely repayment of principal and interest. Following are the ratings details of some other infra bond issuing organizations: 

• IFCI - AA- (from Brickwork Ratings), CARE A+ (from CARE), LA (from ICRA)
• PTC India Financial Services - A+ (from both CARE and ICRA)
• SREI - AA (from CARE)

Experts think that investors get the maximum security from REC and IFCI as they are government owned. 

IDFC Infra Bonds 

• Interest rate - 8.70%
• Eligible for maximum tax benefit of INR 20,000
• AAA rating by ICRA and Fitch
• Lock in period - 5 years
• Can be sold at both NSE and BSE after lock in period

How to choose infra bonds 
At the least, an investor needs to compare the returns being provided by various companies issuing the infrastructure bonds and check out their credit rating. Experts opine that an investor should also keep in mind the latest financial performance of a company before buying its investment instruments. 

How to invest in infra bonds
Investors looking to make the most of their money in infra bonds are often asked to put 50% of the deductible money in the 10 year bonds and the rest in the 15 year bonds. But experts opine that since 20,000 is a small amount it is better to not split it as it may not be tracked properly. 


From the 2012-13 fiscal onwards the infrastructure bonds will not provide tax benefits. The tax benefit had been extended till 2011-12 and experts had asked that the tax exemption limit be increased. 

However, the Union Finance Ministry did not touch upon the infra bonds in the latest bonds and opted to completely do away with the tax benefits being granted previously. 

Did the Indian Capital Controls Work as a Tool of Macroeconomic Policy? by Ajay Shah

Did the Indian capital controls work as a tool for macroeconomic policy, Ila Patnaik and Ajay Shah. IMF Economic Review, page 439--464, volume 60, 2012.

In 2010 and 2011, there has been a fresh wave of interest in capital controls. India is one of the few large countries with a complex system of capital controls, and hence offers an opportunity to assess the extent to which these help achieve goals of macroeconomic and financial policy. We find that the capital controls were associated with poor governance, were unable to sustain the erstwhile exchange rate regime, and did not support financial stability. India's experience is thus inconsistent with the revisionist view of capital controls. Macroeconomic policy in India has moved away from the erstwhile strategies, towards greater exchange rate flexibility combined with capital account liberalisation.

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India 4th largest economy but has low per capita income: Survey

India has become the fourth largest economy in the world due to a strong economic growth but still has a low per capita income, the Economic Survey revealed today.

“India has emerged as the fourth largest economy globally with a high growth rate and has improved its global ranking in terms of per capita income. Yet, the fact remains that its per capita income continues to be quite low,” it said.

“India has moved up the ranks, but is still the poorest among the G-20,” the survey added.

The per capita income of India stood at $ 1,527 in 2011, it said. “...this is perhaps the most visible challenge. Nevertheless, India has a diverse set of factors, domestic as well as external, that could drive growth well into the future,” the survey said.

Between 1980 and 2010, India achieved a growth of 6.2 per cent, while the world as a whole registered a growth rate of 3.3 per cent. As a result, India’s share in global GDP more than doubled from 2.5 per cent in 1980 to 5.5 per cent in 2010, it said.

Consequently, India’s rank in per capita GDP showed an improvement from 117 in 1990 to 101 in 2000 and further to 94 in 2009. China, however, improved its rank from 127 to 74 during the same period.

G-20 or the Group of 20 nations was formed in 1999 after the East Asian crisis as a forum of finance ministers and central bank governors.

Meanwhile, the survey said any slowdown in eurozone, which accounts for 19 per cent of the global GDP, could impact the Indian economy. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has forecast that the eurozone is likely to go through a mild recession in 2012.

India’s macroeconomic performance

Per Capita Income of Indian states

Sl. No	State/UT	2010-11 (Rupees)	2011-12 (Rupees)	2011-12 % Growth
1	Andhra Pradesh	62912	71540	13.7
2	Arunachal Pradesh	55789	62213	11.5
3	Assam	30569	33633	10
4	Bihar	20708	24681	19.2
5	Jharkhand	29786	31982	7.4
6	Goa	168572	192652	14.3
7	Gujarat	75115	N.A	N.A
8	Haryana	94680	109227	15.4
9	Himachal Pradesh	65535	73608	12.3
10	Jammu & Kashmir	37496	41833	11.6
11	Karnataka	60946	69493	14
12	Kerala	71434	83725	17.2
13	Madhya Pradesh	32222	N.A	N.A
14	Chhattisgarh	41167	46573	13.1
15	Maharashtra	83471	N.A	N.A
16	Manipur	29684	32284	8.8
17	Meghalaya	50427	56643	12.3
18	Mizoram	48591	N.A	N.A
19	Nagaland	52643	56116	6.6
20	Odisha	40412	46150	14.2
21	Punjab	69737	78171	12.1
22	Rajasthan	42434	N.A	N.A
23	Sikkim	81159	N.A	N.A
24	Tamil Nadu	72993	84058	15.2
25	Tripura	44965	50750	12.9
26	Uttar Pradesh	26355	29417	11.6
27	Uttarakhand	66368	75604	13.9
28	West Bengal	48536	55864	15.1
29	A & N Islands	76883	82272	7
30	Chandigarh	128634	N.A	N.A
31	Delhi	150653	175812	16.7
32	Puducherry	98719	95759	-3
All-India Per Capita Net National
Income(2004-05 base)		53331	60972	14.3

India’s average Per Capita Income is Rs. 60,972/-.