The calm before the storm- Are we in a pre recession phase?
“It is not the storm that destroys a ship, but the leak left unattended.” The global economy in 2025 appears stable, yet beneath its surface lie unattended leaks like inflation fatigue, debt overhang, and waning productivity. Like the uneasy calm before a storm, this phase reflects a deceptive equilibrium, where short-term indicators conceal long-term structural weakness. Global forecasts currently suggest slow growth rather than a coordinated global recession by the end of 2025. However, recession risk, particularly for parts of the West (the United States and some European economies), is elevated. The risk of a recession in the United States is estimated to be around a 30–40% tail risk. What is recession? According to the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER, USA), a recession is “a significant decline in economic activity, lasting more than a few months( two quarters), normally visible in GDP, real income, employment, industrial production, and wholesale-retail sales.” Key Indicators Warnings from the West to watch The calm indicator of upcoming storm A. Macroeconomic Indicators B. Financial & Market Indicators C. Behavioural & Global Indicators How will INDIA get affected? A. Negative Effects B. Positive Effects How can India gain out of this recession? 1. Strengthening Domestic Demand 2. Monetary and Financial Stability 3. Trade and External Sector Diversification 4. Fiscal Policy & Structural Reforms 5. Strategic and Institutional Measures While the spectre of a global recession looms over advanced economies, India stands at a relatively stronger macroeconomic position — with robust domestic demand, resilient banking systems, and prudent fiscal management. The challenge ahead is to transform global headwinds into opportunities for structural transformation and self-reliant growth.In the words of former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan, “Crises are also opportunities to build stronger foundations.” With sound policies and reform-driven momentum, India can indeed turn an impending global recession into an inflection point towards Atmanirbhar, inclusive, and sustainable development.