Will Q2 GDP Show Indian Economy Exceeding Forecast Despite Global Disruptions?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Projected Q2 FY26 GDP growth: 7.5-8.0%.
- Strong investment activities support growth.
- GST reforms expected to boost domestic consumption.
- Risks from global commodity market volatility.
- Macroeconomic stability enhances medium-term growth prospects.
New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) As analysts and industries eagerly anticipate the Q2 GDP figures to be unveiled by the National Statistical Office on Friday, emerging reports suggest that the economy could exceed the 7 percent projection for the July-September timeframe, despite the impact of US tariffs and generally weak global indicators.
During the April-June quarter (Q1 FY26), GDP growth reached a five-quarter peak at 7.8 percent, and specialists predict another exceptional performance from the Indian economy.
India's macroeconomic outlook is characterized by cautious optimism, supported by strong domestic demand and a decrease in inflationary pressures.
The growth is bolstered by vigorous investment activities, a rebound in rural consumption, and a thriving services and manufacturing sector, as noted in a recent SBI report.
Reforms in GST 2.0 are anticipated to enhance private consumption and domestic demand.
“We analyze 50 leading indicators in consumption and demand, agriculture, industry, services, and other metrics, revealing an acceleration in Q2 FY26 growth compared to Q1 FY26. The proportion of indicators indicating acceleration has risen to 83 percent in Q2 from 70 percent in Q1,” the SBI report stated.
Utilizing an estimated model, “we derive a nowcast of real GDP growth between 7.5-8.0 percent (GVA: 8.0 percent) for Q2 FY26,” the report continued.
Nonetheless, challenges linger due to fluctuating global commodity markets and potential effects from trade disruptions.
Overall, India's short-term outlook is robust, with macroeconomic stability fostering a foundation for sustained medium-term growth, according to the report.
In the meantime, the CareEdge Economic Meter experienced a 3.2 percent year-on-year expansion in Q2 FY26, slightly below the 3.3 percent growth noted in Q1 FY26.
“Our model projects real GDP growth for Q2 FY26 at 7.2 percent. We foresee a real GDP and GVA growth of 6.9 percent YoY for FY26, with nominal GDP growth for FY26 estimated at 7.7 percent, considering the significant reduction in inflation,” the report added.
The rationalization of income tax brackets, GST rate reductions, thriving rural economic activities, decreasing inflationary pressures, and the RBI's interest rate cuts are expected to bolster growth in FY26. However, persistent external economic uncertainties remain a significant factor to monitor,” it concluded.