With tariff-related uncertainties piling, India must quicken US deal talks, engage more trade partners

Consumer sentiments tumbled in April as inflation worries surged. According to the University of Michigan's survey, consumer sentiment fell to 50.8 in April, down from 57 in March. The survey respondents' expectation on inflation a year from now jumped to 6.7 percent, up from 5 percent in March. This is the highest reading since November 1981. In India, weak foreign directment investment flows, coupled with volatile portfolio investments, could keep the financial account under stress. The merchandise export outlook is clouded by tariff-related uncertainties, even as the 90-day halt on the 26 percent tariff is a relief. Downside risks to…