Hermes has reported robust fourth-quarter revenue growth, exceeding expectations. Strong sales in the United States and Japan have bolstered performance. The luxury brand is weathering a sector slowdown better than rivals. Hermes anticipates continued confidence into 2026. Price increases are planned, though at a slightly slower pace. Positive signs are emerging from China.
Recent regulations from the Reserve Bank of India could dampen the momentum of credit life insurance, a product often paired with retail loans. The new guidelines prohibit banks from linking insurance policies directly to loan approvals, a move designed to enhance transparency and safeguard consumers from potential misinformation.
India's statistics ministry has updated the Consumer Price Index (CPI) base year to 2024 from 2012, reflecting evolving household consumption patterns. The revised index includes more items, expanded price collection, and incorporates online market data, aiming for a more accurate measure of inflation for monetary policy.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted India's strong economic performance, characterized by high growth and low inflation, attributing it to government reforms. She refuted claims of middle-class suppression, citing an expanding taxpayer base and rising real incomes. The budget aims to guide India towards developed nation status by 2047.
