BOOKS
Book review: Source Code by Bill Gates is also the story of a computer revolution
Bill Gates, Paul Allen, Rick, and many others developed software that made computers intelligible to the common man. Bill Gates' Source Code is the story of that revolution, and that moment in tech history.
POLITICS
Modi in US engages with Quad leaders amid rising East-West tensions
PM Modi met with leaders from the US, Japan, and Australia at the Quad summit, addressing regional security and technology cooperation amid increasing challenges from China. His visit occurs months before the US presidential race, raising questions about future Quad policies
WORLD
Pakistan PM concludes crucial Beijing visit before his Budget. How it may impact India
Pakistan’s increasing dependence on China consolidates the latter’s influence in that country. China does not see Pakistan as a market for investment but a useful pawn to balance and constrain India’s rise
BUSINESS
OPEC + Extends Production Cuts: Market dynamics and future of oil prices
The long-term phasing out of production cuts is intended to signal that the prices will remain high next year, though the market may have read a different meaning in the short run
WORLD
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s death is unfortunate but it will not bring policy changes
The tragic death of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Abdollahian comes at a time when the region is passing through a critical stage, the clash with Israel and its support to Palestine in the Gaza war. The deaths will be mourned but there will be little to no change in the substance of policies
INDIA
Chabahar port opens door for India to Central Asia, giving an edge over China
Chabahar port not only improves India’s access to Afghanistan, but also Central Asia by providing a shorter route. At present, trade has to flow via a much longer route through China increasing the cost. The development of Chabahar will open up a shorter route making Indian exports more competitive and vice-versa
TRENDS
Iran attack on Israel: Dangerous escalation could spell dire implications for India’s oil supply
Iran's attack on Israel could have dire implications for India. The escalation in the middle east can have a dramatic impact on oil prices. India has a growing relationship with Israel and enjoys civilizational ties with Iran. India is trusted by all; it could play a role as a peacemaker
BUSINESS
US economy strengthens, sluggish China welcomes FDI as investments pour in
Chinese economy is slowing down yet it has emerged as a new destination for global investors. It is felt that when the economy recovers it will bring excellent returns
BUSINESS
That Sinking Feeling: Still gripped by economic crisis, Pakistan grapples with deepening political uncertainties
The national and provincial governments are poised to have weak coalitions at the helm. These will struggle for credibility amidst PTI’s refrain of a stolen mandate, and may leave tough economic reforms on the backburner, thereby intensifying the existential crisis Pakistan finds itself in
WORLD
Worsening Pakistan-Iran Relations: Who is to blame?
Half a century of state repression of Balochistan, the Zia era tilt towards Saudi Arabia away from Iran, all leading to Shia-Sunni tensions, has been followed by the receding of the Pakistan state from vast areas of the country amid a crippling economic crisis. The dysfunction, policy and ideology have allowed terror groups to use Pakistan as a base to target neighbouring countries
