🇺🇸 Moody’s Downgrades US Credit Rating: Debt Concerns Rise
On May 16, 2025, Moody’s downgraded the United States’ credit rating from Aaa to Aa1. The downgrade was triggered by growing concerns over the country’s financial health, especially rising debt and increasing interest payments.
Key Reasons:
- The US national debt is projected to reach 134% of GDP by 2035.
- Around 30% of federal revenue will be used just for interest payments.
- No strong steps have been taken to reduce debt since Donald Trump’s tenure.
Potential Impact:
- Higher borrowing costs
- Greater inflationary pressure
- Reduced investor confidence
📈 Netflix Market Cap Crosses $500 Billion
Netflix has achieved a market cap of over $507 billion as of May 2025, marking a strong comeback after the pandemic criticisms. Its content strategy and global expansion have played key roles in its revival.
📉 Supreme Court Rejects Vodafone Idea’s AGR Dues Waiver Plea
India’s Supreme Court rejected Vodafone Idea’s plea to waive ₹58,000 crore in AGR dues. The telco had argued that it lacks funds to make the payments. The decision could lead to a shutdown by FY2026 if funding isn’t secured.
🤖 Alibaba’s AI-Powered Ad Strategy Boosts Sales
Alibaba reported significant growth in online sales driven by AI-based targeted advertising. The company has committed $53 billion in investments toward AI and cloud infrastructure over the next few years.
💼 Groww Acquires Fisdom for $150 Million
Indian investment platform Groww has acquired wealth-tech startup Fisdom in an all-cash deal worth $150 million. This follows Groww’s recent $50 million funding from GIC and strengthens its upcoming IPO plans.
🇨🇳 China Continues Selling US Treasuries
China sold $27 billion worth of US treasuries in March 2025, reducing its holdings to $765.4 billion. This continues a post-COVID trend as China diversifies away from US financial instruments.
🛒 PhonePe’s Pincode Adds ₹9 Handling Fee
PhonePe’s quick commerce platform Pincode has introduced a ₹9 handling fee for all orders, ending its previous “no extra charges” policy. This move is seen as a shift toward profitability.
🏨 OYO Adds 3,500 Corporate Clients in FY25
Hospitality startup OYO added 3,500 new corporate clients in FY25, growing its business travel segment. The company now serves over 6,500 corporate customers, including SBI Life and Sun TV.
🛢️ Indian Oil Enters Data Center Business
Indian Oil Corporation is diversifying into data centers, nuclear power, lithium-ion batteries, and mineral mining. The oil major aims to generate ₹1 trillion in revenue by 2047 and achieve net zero operational emissions.