Year-End Business Boom: Markets Soar and Concerns Linger

The year 2024 saw stock market gains, but with challenges. Investors' wealth increased by Rs 77.66 lakh crore as Sensex surged, yet slowed infrastructure growth and fiscal deficit raised concerns. Currency depreciation and unchanged savings interest rates shaped the financial landscape as India emerged as a clean energy leader.

Investors welcomed the close of 2024 with remarkable gains, as stock market wealth soared by Rs 77.66 lakh crore. The BSE Sensex saw an 8% surge, reflecting overall optimism among market participants. However, the government's unchanged small savings interest rates for the fourth quarter highlighted an area of caution.

Infrastructure growth faced a slowdown, recording only 4.3% growth in key sectors. Market indices like Sensex and Nifty declined on the final session of the year due to foreign fund outflows and global market weaknesses. The fiscal deficit reached 52.5% of the annual target by November end, signaling fiscal pressures.

In currency news, the rupee closed the year at a record low of 85.64 against the USD, attributed to strong foreign outflows and a robust US dollar. On the brighter side, India solidified its position among global clean energy leaders, achieving over 200 GW capacity and planning significant investment increases by 2025.

(With inputs from agencies.)