The Observation Engine

Today, President Trump signed a sweeping executive order imposing a $100,000 annual fee for each new H-1B visa application. This move could significantly alter the landscape of skilled immigration, the Indian IT sector, and global talent flow. Here's an in-depth look at the order, its context, and its far-reaching consequences. What Does the Executive Order Say? Effective September 21, 2025 , U.S. employers must pay $100,000 for every H-1B visa petition. The rule covers new entries and will last for at least 12 months unless extended. H-1B petitions not accompanied by this fee will be denied, locking out thousands of foreign workers unless companies are willing (and able) to pay the surcharge. U.S. agencies are ordered to close loopholes, such as arrivals on business (B-1/B-2) visas with plans to transition to H-1B jobs, making side-stepping the rule nearly impossible. Impact on the Indian IT Industry Short-Term Pain Immediate Cost Spike: Indian IT giants (TCS, In...

On July 31, 2025, US President Donald Trump ignited controversy by labelling India’s economy “dead” and simultaneously announcing a sweeping 25% tariff on all Indian exports to the United States, accompanied by an unspecified penalty for India’s ongoing trade with Russia. In an era dominated by complex geopolitical alliances and economic competition, India’s sharp rebuttal and its stunning economic growth have taken centre stage in global headlines . India’s Remarkable Growth Story Despite Trump’s remarks, major economic institutions unanimously recognize India as the fastest-growing major world economy in 2025. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India’s growth forecast upwards to 6.4% for both 2025 and 2026, citing robust fundamentals and optimism about its trajectory . The Reserve Bank of India projects similar figures, reinforced by strong domestic demand, rising private investment, and high public spending, factors that have helped India surge past the so-called “...

Lately, there’s been some serious “tariff drama” coming from the USA, and no, I’m not talking about customs officials or cargo scanning. I’m talking about the sudden threats, back-and-forth on import taxes, and how these global power games are shaking up the stock markets worldwide . Former US President Donald Trump , who still knows how to dominate headlines better than Netflix originals, is once again playing hardball with the world. His comments and threats about increasing tariffs, punishing China, or renegotiating trade deals have not just raised eyebrows, but have  rattled markets from Wall Street to Dalal Street. Is this all just a coincidence? Or a planned move to manipulate the stock market? Let’s unpack this drama a bit and see what’s behind the noise. Pros (If you look at it from their side): 🟢 These tariff threats create fear and confusion in the market , which can lead to panic selling or sudden buying. 🟢 Big investors, hedge funds, and insiders often benefit ...

As the feud between the President and the billionaire heats up, many are asking: Is this real conflict, or a masterclass in distraction? Donald Trump and Elon Musk are publicly feuding over spending bills, subsidies, and political power. But is it a genuine fallout—or a staged spectacle for strategic gain? In the age of social media politics, it’s hard to tell where reality ends and performance begins. The latest example? The escalating war of words between President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk . What started as a policy disagreement over Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” has spiraled into a full-blown feud—complete with threats of deportation, accusations of corruption, and even whispers of impeachment. But as the drama unfolds in real time on X (formerly Twitter) and Truth Social, a new question is emerging: Is this feud even real? 🔥 The Flashpoint: A Bill, a Billionaire, and a Backlash The feud reignited when Musk slammed Trump’s multitrillion-dollar spending bill,...