Category Archives: Business

The AI Investment Paradox: Asset Managers Divided Over Whether They Are Spending Too Much or Too Little, Global Research Reveals

BOISE, Idaho, NEW YORK, CHICAGO, LONDON and HONG KONG, July 22 — A striking investment paradox is emerging at the heart of the asset management industry’s AI revolution, new research from Clearwater Analytics reveals.

While AI budgets across the fund management industry are growing at an extraordinary pace — with 63% of firms increasing AI spending by more than 50% in the past 12 months and not a single firm reporting a budget decrease — the industry is deeply divided about whether it is spending the right amount.

One in four (25%) fund managers believe their organisation is still not investing enough in AI. Yet a striking 66% say they fear their firms are already over-investing. Together, these findings expose a fault line running through the industry: for all the conviction that AI is essential, there is no consensus on what the right level of commitment looks like in practice — and for an industry where capital allocation decisions carry significant weight, that lack of consensus carries real risk.

 A Maturing Industry, Not a Late One

Contrary to the narrative of an industry playing catch-up, the research reveals that AI adoption in asset management is more mature than commonly assumed. The majority of fund managers (56%) began integrating AI four to five years ago, and a further 34% started their journey two to three years back. Only 9% have begun AI integration within the past year.

This means the industry is not at the beginning of its AI journey — it is in the middle of it. The challenge is no longer whether to adopt AI, but how to scale it effectively, govern it responsibly, and calibrate the right level of investment to deliver measurable returns.

 The Spending Surge Is Extraordinary and Showing No Signs of Slowing

Whatever the debate about whether investment levels are right, the direction of travel is unambiguous:

· 13% of fund managers report AI investment increased by over 100% in the past 12 months

· 50% saw expenditure rise between 50% and 99%

· Not a single firm reported a decrease in AI spending

· Only 4% held budgets steady

This is an industry-wide acceleration, driven by competitive pressure, client demand, and the growing recognition that AI is a core operational imperative.

AI Is Already at the Operational Core

The research makes clear that AI has moved well beyond pilot programmes and proof-of-concept projects. It is already embedded in the engine room of fund management operations, in investment decisions, risk management, and day-to-day workflows:

· Investment Decisions: 43% of managers now use AI for 25–49% of their investment decision-making; 10% rely on it for the majority of their investment calls

· Risk Management: 38% apply AI to 25–49% of their risk processes; 8% use it for the majority of risk assessments

· Operations: 34% integrate AI into 25–49% of operational decisions; 6% use AI for over half of their operational workflows

The message is clear: AI is already shaping how fund managers make decisions, manage risk, and run their operations today.

 The Real Challenge: From Spending to Institutionalisation

The paradox the research reveals points to a deeper challenge. The industry has moved past the question of whether to invest in AI. The new question is how to institutionalise it effectively: building the data infrastructure, governance frameworks, talent capabilities, and operational processes that allow AI investment to translate into measurable outcomes.

Firms that solve this challenge — moving beyond the anxiety of calibrating spend to the discipline of deploying AI systematically across their investment lifecycle — will be the ones that pull ahead.

Souvik Das, CTO at Clearwater Analytics, said: “What our research reveals is an industry wrestling with how to get AI right. Increasing the budget is the easy part. The harder challenge is institutionalising AI in a way that drives genuine alpha and operational excellence, rather than simply adding cost and complexity.”

“At Clearwater, we are helping clients navigate exactly this challenge, by embedding AI directly into our platform and automating the data reconciliation and investment accounting lifecycles that form the foundation of everything else,” continued Das.

“When the infrastructure is right, AI doesn’t just work, it compounds. It identifies data anomalies in real-time, reduces the manual burden on risk and operations teams, and frees people to focus on the high-value strategic work that actually moves the needle.”

Crude Oil Prices Climb as Middle East Tensions Spark Fresh Market Worries

New Delhi, July 22: Global crude oil prices moved higher as rising tensions between the United States and Iran triggered concerns over possible disruptions to energy supplies, pushing Brent crude to a five-week high near USD 92 per barrel.

The increase in oil prices reflects growing caution among investors and energy traders, who are closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and their potential impact on global crude supply chains.

The Middle East remains one of the world’s most important energy regions, and any uncertainty surrounding production or transportation routes can significantly influence international oil markets. The latest developments have increased concerns about supply stability, leading to upward pressure on crude prices.

Market analysts said the movement in oil prices will depend on the evolving geopolitical situation, global demand trends, and the availability of supplies. Continued tensions could keep markets volatile, while easing concerns may help bring some stability.

The rise in crude prices has also drawn attention from oil-importing economies, where higher energy costs can affect fuel prices, transportation expenses, inflation, and broader economic conditions.

Energy experts highlighted the importance of maintaining diversified energy sources and strengthening supply resilience to manage fluctuations in the global oil market.

The latest surge in crude prices underscores the close connection between geopolitical events and global economic stability, with energy markets continuing to remain sensitive to international developments.

Gem and Jewellery Exports Regain Momentum with Strong June Growth

Mumbai, July 22: India’s gem and jewellery export sector witnessed a strong recovery in June, recording a 26.5 per cent rise in exports, driven by renewed demand from international markets and improved business sentiment, according to industry data.

The growth marks a positive turnaround for the sector, reflecting the resilience of Indian exporters and the continued global appeal of the country’s craftsmanship, design capabilities, and jewellery manufacturing expertise.

The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) said the rise in exports was supported by stronger demand across key international markets. The improvement indicates renewed confidence among buyers and provides fresh momentum to exporters after a period of global uncertainty.

India’s gem and jewellery industry, one of the country’s important export sectors, plays a significant role in employment generation and economic growth. The sector has been focusing on innovation, technology adoption, quality enhancement, and expanding its presence in global markets.

Industry representatives said the positive export performance highlights the strength of India’s jewellery ecosystem, supported by skilled artisans, established manufacturing capabilities, and growing international partnerships.

The industry expects continued growth opportunities as global demand improves and Indian exporters strengthen their position in overseas markets through new designs, sustainable practices, and enhanced competitiveness.

The latest export performance reflects the sector’s ability to adapt to changing market conditions and reinforces India’s position as a leading global hub for gems and jewellery.

Uttarakhand’s Frozen French Fries Make Global Debut with First Export Shipment to Iraq

New Delhi, July 22: India has achieved a new milestone in agricultural exports with the first shipment of frozen French fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq, marking an important step in expanding the state’s presence in international food markets.

 Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia

The export initiative was facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), which supported the promotion of processed food products from the region and helped connect local producers with global buyers.

The shipment highlights the growing potential of Uttarakhand’s food processing sector and reflects the increasing demand for Indian processed agricultural products in overseas markets. The move is expected to encourage farmers, food processors, and exporters to explore new opportunities in the global value chain.

Frozen French fries, made from processed potatoes, have emerged as a high-demand product in international markets due to their convenience and long shelf life. The successful export from Uttarakhand demonstrates the state’s capability to produce quality processed food products that meet global standards.

APEDA has been working to promote agricultural exports by improving market access, supporting exporters, and encouraging value addition in farm products. Such initiatives aim to increase farmers’ incomes, strengthen rural industries, and enhance India’s position in the global food trade.

The first export shipment to Iraq marks a significant achievement for Uttarakhand and opens new possibilities for expanding the state’s processed food exports to other international destinations.

India’s Export Momentum Gets a Boost as ASEAN and Africa Fuel Trade Growth

New Delhi, July 22: India’s export sector has started the new financial year on a positive note, with ASEAN countries and African markets emerging as major drivers of growth during the first two months of FY27.

 Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia

The strong performance highlights India’s expanding global trade presence and the growing demand for Indian products across emerging markets. Increased exports to these regions reflect the success of efforts to diversify trade partnerships and create new opportunities for businesses.

ASEAN nations continued to remain important destinations for Indian exports, with sectors such as engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, textiles, agriculture, and manufactured products contributing to the growth. At the same time, rising trade engagement with African countries has opened fresh avenues for Indian companies seeking to expand their international presence.

The government has been actively working to strengthen trade relations, improve market access, and support exporters through policy initiatives designed to enhance competitiveness. Expanding the export network beyond traditional markets remains a key focus area for sustaining long-term growth.

Industry leaders believe that deeper partnerships with emerging economies will help Indian businesses explore new opportunities, strengthen supply chains, and increase their participation in global trade.

With growing demand from diverse international markets, India’s export sector is poised to build further momentum and contribute to the country’s broader economic growth objectives.

RWJBarnabas Health’s Dr. Kelly Keefe Marcoux to Be Inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing

West Orange, New Jersey, July 22: Kelly Keefe Marcoux, PhD, CPNP-AC, PPCNP-BC, CCRN, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Children’s Specialized Hospital, part of the Children’s Health network at RWJBarnabas Health, has been selected to become a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (Academy). Fellows are selected based on their outstanding contributions to improve health locally and globally. The 2026 Fellows will be formally inducted during the Academy’s annual Health Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., on October 10, 2026.

Induction into the Academy is one of the highest professional honors in nursing, recognizing leaders who have made substantial, sustained contributions to improving health and health care through innovation, leadership, education, research, policy and clinical practice.

“Kelly’s induction into the American Academy of Nursing is an extraordinary and well-deserved recognition of her unwavering commitment to advancing pediatric nursing, championing family-centered care, and developing the next generation of nursing leaders,” said Nancy E. Holecek, MAS, MHA, BSN, RN, Executive Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, RWJBarnabas Health. “Her visionary leadership continues to elevate the quality and safety of care for children and families across New Jersey while shaping the future of the nursing profession nationally.”

As Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Dr. Keefe Marcoux oversees more than 900 nursing and clinical staff across Children’s Specialized Hospital’s statewide network of sites. Under her leadership, the organization has strengthened its family-centered model of care, expanded professional development opportunities for nurses, advanced nationally recognized nurse practitioner fellowship programs, enhanced patient safety initiatives, and fostered a culture of excellence in pediatric nursing.

A nationally respected pediatric nurse practitioner and nurse executive, Dr. Keefe Marcoux is dually board certified in pediatric primary and acute care and has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications while presenting nationally and internationally on pediatric acute care, quality, safety and advanced practice nursing. She serves on the Executive Board of the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and is an active advocate for advancing equitable access to high-quality pediatric care.

“I am deeply honored to be inducted as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing,” said Dr. Keefe Marcoux. “This recognition reflects the incredible nurses, clinicians and interdisciplinary teams I have the privilege to work alongside every day. Together, we remain committed to advancing nursing excellence, improving outcomes for children and families, and creating opportunities for future nurse leaders to thrive.”

Dr. Keefe Marcoux has been widely recognized for her contributions to nursing leadership. Most recently, she received the inaugural Society of Pediatric Nurses DAISY Award of the Year in Pediatric Nursing, recognizing her exceptional leadership and dedication to improving the lives of children with complex healthcare needs. She was also honored with the 2025 Nurse Executive Award from the Organization of Nurse Leaders of New Jersey for her outstanding leadership and service to the nursing profession.

Pharma Shares Under Pressure as New U.S. Tariff Plan Raises Export Concerns

Mumbai, July 22: Shares of Indian pharmaceutical companies came under pressure on Wednesday after concerns emerged over the impact of a proposed U.S. tariff plan on generic drug imports, leading to a decline in the broader pharma sector.

The Nifty Pharma index fell nearly 2 per cent as investors reacted to the potential challenges the new tariff measures could create for companies that depend heavily on exports to the U.S. market. The announcement led to cautious trading, with market participants closely assessing the possible financial impact on drug manufacturers.

India’s pharmaceutical industry is a major supplier of affordable generic medicines globally, and the U.S. remains one of its most important markets. Investors are now watching how the proposed tariff changes may affect pricing, supply chains, and the overall competitiveness of Indian companies.

Market experts said the immediate reaction reflects uncertainty among investors, while the actual impact will depend on the final structure and implementation of the tariff policy. Companies may explore strategies such as cost optimisation, market diversification, and strengthening domestic and international operations to manage potential challenges.

Despite the short-term pressure, industry analysts remain confident in the long-term strength of India’s pharmaceutical sector, supported by its manufacturing capabilities, global presence, and continued demand for affordable healthcare solutions.

India Expands FTA Network to Boost Global Trade

New Delhi, July 22: The Government of India is strengthening its network of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to expand market access for Indian businesses, diversify export destinations, and enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global marketplace.

The initiative reflects the government’s continued focus on creating new trade opportunities while reducing dependence on a limited number of export markets. By pursuing comprehensive trade agreements with key economies, India aims to provide exporters with improved market access, lower trade barriers, and a more predictable business environment.

The expanded FTA strategy is expected to benefit a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and services. It also aligns with the government’s broader vision of increasing exports, attracting investment, strengthening supply chains, and positioning India as a trusted global trade partner.

Officials noted that the growing FTA network will help Indian businesses tap into emerging markets, improve export competitiveness, and support long-term economic growth. At the same time, the agreements are designed to promote innovation, facilitate technology transfer, and generate new employment opportunities across industries.

As global trade patterns continue to evolve, the government remains committed to deepening economic partnerships and creating an enabling environment that supports sustainable export growth and strengthens India’s integration into global value chains.

India Highlights Strong Economic Fundamentals and Record Export Performance at WTO Trade Policy Review

New Delhi, July 22: India reaffirmed its robust economic outlook and growing prominence in global trade during the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Policy Review, showcasing record export achievements, sustained economic resilience, and its commitment to a transparent, inclusive, and rules-based multilateral trading system.

Representing India at the review, the Commerce Secretary highlighted the country’s strong macroeconomic fundamentals, policy-driven reforms, and expanding trade footprint despite an increasingly challenging global economic environment. The Secretary noted that record merchandise and services exports reflect the resilience of Indian businesses, improved competitiveness, and the government’s continued focus on strengthening trade, investment, and manufacturing.

The review underscored India’s ongoing efforts to streamline trade processes, enhance digital infrastructure, improve the ease of doing business, and foster a business-friendly policy environment. These measures have reinforced India’s position as a trusted global trading partner and an attractive destination for international investment.

Emphasizing the importance of multilateral cooperation, India reiterated its commitment to working closely with WTO members to promote fair, predictable, and sustainable global trade while advocating for the priorities of developing economies. The Commerce Secretary stressed that a balanced and inclusive trading system remains essential for fostering shared economic growth and resilience.

Looking ahead, India will continue to pursue reforms aimed at expanding export opportunities, strengthening supply chains, promoting innovation, and accelerating sustainable economic development. The WTO Trade Policy Review reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to deepen its integration with the global economy while supporting long-term, inclusive growth.

Indian Markets Slip in Early Trade as Oil Prices Rise and U.S. Tariff Plans Weigh on Sentiment

Mumbai, July 22: Indian stock markets opened on a weaker note on Wednesday, with the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 retreating in early trading as investors reacted to rising global crude oil prices and renewed concerns over the United States’ proposed tariff measures.

The cautious market mood was driven by a sharp increase in oil prices, which raised fears of higher inflation and increased import costs for India, one of the world’s largest crude oil importers. At the same time, uncertainty surrounding the U.S. tariff proposal added to investor nervousness, prompting broad-based selling across several sectors.

During the opening session, the Sensex dropped nearly 370 points, while the Nifty fell more than 100 points. Oil-sensitive industries, including aviation and paints, remained under pressure, while pharmaceutical stocks also witnessed declines amid concerns that the proposed U.S. tariffs could impact exports.

Market experts believe investors are adopting a wait-and-watch approach as they assess the potential impact of global trade developments, fluctuating energy prices, and the ongoing corporate earnings season. They added that any sustained rise in crude oil prices could continue to influence market sentiment in the near term.

Going forward, traders will closely monitor international oil price movements, updates on U.S. trade policy, and domestic economic indicators for further direction. Despite the weak start, analysts remain optimistic that positive corporate earnings and stable domestic fundamentals could help support the markets over the longer term.