As global politics, business strategy, and technology intersect in new ways, India is increasingly finding itself at the heart of key developments—ranging from Big Tech’s manufacturing decisions to homegrown fintech triumphs and strategic tax moves. Here’s a roundup of six major developments that reflect India’s evolving influence on the global stage.
Apple Stands Firm on India Despite Trump’s Pressure
Even as former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to bring manufacturing jobs back to America, Apple executives moved swiftly to reassure Indian authorities. The message? India remains integral to Apple’s global strategy.
Despite the political tension, Apple made it clear that its production ramp-up in India—a key element of its supply chain diversification away from China—will proceed as planned. Indian government sources described the company’s response as “prompt and forceful,” underlining Apple’s serious long-term commitment to the country’s rapidly growing manufacturing ecosystem.
Credits: Firstpost
Zomato & Swiggy Dampen Premium Perks
It wasn’t the kind of rainy-day surprise customers were expecting.
India’s food delivery giants, Zomato (now rebranded as Eternal) and Swiggy, have quietly removed a core benefit from their premium subscription services. Previously, Zomato Gold and Swiggy One members were exempt from paying surge fees during bad weather. Not anymore.
Now, whether you’re a paying member or not, surge pricing applies in conditions like rain—a move that has left many loyal users disappointed. While there’s been no formal announcement, the change reflects the growing pressure both platforms face from investors to stem losses, particularly from their cash-burning quick commerce arms.
Credits: India Today
Trump Takes Aim at Apple’s India Strategy
Adding fuel to the fire, Donald Trump doubled down on his criticism of Apple’s growing footprint in India. His politically charged statement seemed to challenge not just Apple, but also the broader trend of American firms exploring India as a manufacturing base amid rising U.S.-China tensions.
The timing is crucial, as Apple has been actively reducing its dependency on China and scaling up production in India through partners like Foxconn and Pegatron. Trump’s remarks may resonate with certain political factions in the U.S., but for Apple, the strategic shift is all about resilience and cost-efficiency.
Credits: NDTV World
Antfin’s ₹2,100 Cr Exit from Paytm—Tax-Free
In a deft use of international tax treaties, Antfin, a subsidiary of China’s Alibaba Group, has sold a ₹2,100 crore stake in Paytm without incurring any capital gains tax in India.
The secret sauce? The India-Netherlands tax treaty. By routing the deal through a Dutch entity, Antfin legally avoided taxes that would have applied if the transaction were conducted directly in India. This move has raised eyebrows among policy watchers, even as it draws attention to the complexities of global tax laws and the need for reforms to prevent aggressive treaty shopping.
Credits: The Hindu Business Line
Zerodha Shines Bright on Nasdaq Tower
India’s largest stockbroking platform, Zerodha, just had a moment of global recognition—featured on the Nasdaq Tower in Times Square, New York. The honor came in light of Zerodha’s contribution to the global open-source software movement.
This milestone is more than just symbolic. It highlights how Indian fintech firms are gaining international clout, not just through user numbers or revenues, but by giving back to the global tech ecosystem.
Credits: Money Control
Deep-Tech Dreams: Adopt AI & Flam Raise $20M
In yet another win for India’s deep-tech ambitions, startups Adopt AI and Flam have jointly raised $20 million. The funding will fuel innovations in AI-native infrastructure and mixed reality (MR)—two areas with transformative potential.
These startups represent the new wave of Indian innovation: globally relevant, deeply technical, and future-focused. The funding also signals investor confidence in India’s ability to be a global leader in next-gen tech.
Credits: Analytics Vidhya
Conclusion: A Nation in Motion
From iPhones to AI, and fintech to food delivery, India is no longer just a participant in global tech narratives—it’s becoming a central character. As companies navigate political headwinds, financial pressures, and technological disruption, India’s role as both a marketplace and a maker is only set to grow.
The question isn’t whether India will shape the future—it’s how much of it will be Made in India.
