Vijay Kumar Gaba

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Some more random thoughts

Friendly banker who likes to have more “likes” on facebook

Raghuram Rajan in his first interview after taking over as RBI governor had proclaimed that “The Governorship of the Central Bank is not meant to win one votes or Facebook “likes”.” But in Washington last week, he did try to earn some “likes”.

His efforts so far have provided much needed stability to the currency and soothed many ruffled feathers. He has taken many “popular” measures that have earned him votes of foreign investors.

The recent proposal to liberalize the regime for foreign banks is also a step in that direction. Otherwise, the fact is that in past one year many foreign banks have indeed scaled down/exited their Indian operations. The banks which are there in India since many decades have mostly remained an urban phenomena and are not exactly known for their good practices. The foreign banks contribute nothing positive to the objective of financial inclusion. The negative contribution could be listed, though not inarguably.

The market reaction to the governor’s statement was nothing short of euphoric with some takeover candidates gaining 5-10% in day’s trade.

In our view, the banks whose survival or prosperity depends purely on foreign capital should be considered instable and put under stricter surveillance.

Would wait to hear some protesting noise from so called nationalistic and socialistic forces.

The blessings of Phailin

The destruction and losses caused by the cyclone Phailin that hit India’s east coast last Saturday is terrible and the entire nation stands with the people who have suffered from the nature’s fury.

But as they say, whatever nature does is for the good of mankind. The tragedy perhaps has done a tremendous good to the country as a whole. It has catalyzed the much needed reform in the area of disaster management. The administrative response to the tragedy was unprecedented and results stupendous.

We are certain that this incident will set the benchmark in disaster management that will only be improved with the passing of time. Hope we see no more stampedes at religious places and no avoidable loss of life in natural calamities.

Feudalism wins over democracy yet again

Rahul Gandhi suppressed his desire to break free from the clutches of feudal lords within Congress party. The gas he showed at the Press Club couple of weeks back was pressurized enough to turn into cold water by the time he reached Punjab last week.

He acknowledged that Dr. Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi are his gurus in politics. Remember, these two are the supreme examples of the exploits of the Feudal powers governing the GoP of India since independence.

The meek surrender will certainly disappoint the young turks of the Party who had supported him instantaneously in his rebellion.

Thought for the day

“If you can't get rid of the skeleton in your closet, you'd best teach it to dance.”

- George Bernard Shaw (Irish, 1856-1950)

Word of the day

Trepan (n)

A person who ensnares or entraps others.

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

Does the administrative response to Phailin meet international standards?

If yes, who gets the credit?

Monday, October 14, 2013

Few random thoughts

The equity markets globally have been unusually buoyant past couple of trading sessions.

Except for somewhat easier liquidity and stable INR noting seems to have changed in domestic economy. Chinese export data suggests that Asia in general might have further deteriorated. Recently all global agencies, e.g., IMF, World Bank, European Commission etc. have warned that emerging markets, mostly BRICS, present greater risk to the global economy now, as compared to Europe and US couple of years back.

US political impasse

US political impasse is only worsening from midterm perspective and offers no sustainable solution. Even if they agree to enhance the debt ceiling at the 11^th hour and government starts working again, there are enough indications that the US may continue to witness many recurrences of stalemate in the remaining term of Barack Obama.

Anyways, in 2011 episode of debt ceiling break below supports that led to accelerated losses in the equity markets actually took place once an agreement was reached.

US President himself and many others have warned of that financial markets will crash should the US Congressmen fail to enhance the debt ceiling and pass the budget. This highlights the tenuousness of the economic recovery that is riding on the back of the QE tiger.

The complacent financial markets remind us of the period between August 2007 to January 2008, and the thought of what followed thereafter is disconcerting.

A rise in US bond yields post debt ceiling hike will be the first indicator that the buoyancy in equity markets is about to terminate.

Optical illusion in India

The current rally in Indian equities may mostly be an optical illusion. The rally is driven by a handful of stocks, while broader markets continue to languish. The domestic investors’ participation is dwindling even at a faster rate. The number of stocks trading on daily basis is shrinking, traditionally an indication of rise in number of vanishing companies and deeply stressed companies. Volumes continue to remain low and overwhelmingly concentrated in index option, giving the market a definite “lottery” like outlook.

The inflation continues to remain sticky and manufacturing weak. RBI’s next policy action shall logically be a 25bps hike in repo rate.

Remember, the governor had made it clear on September 19^th that (a) Inflation is the primary focus and (b) both MSF and repo rate will do the walking. Now, as the inflation outlook has worsened further with late withdrawal of monsoon and crop damage by Phailin, and MSF rates have already walked down 125bps, its turn of repo rate to move up a bit.

A rise in US and domestic bond yields could moderate the raging bulls in next couple of months.

....to continue

Thought for the day

“Sin cannot be conceived in a natural state, but only in a civil state, where it is decreed by common consent what is good or bad.”

—Baruch Spinoza (Dutch, 1632-1677)

Word of the day

Promulgate (v)

To make known by open declaration; publish; proclaim formally or put into operation (a law, decree of a court, etc.).

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

We all share the pain, misery and sufferings of the people who came in the way of nature’s fury – Phailin.

God will join us soon.

Friday, October 11, 2013

InvesTrekk model portfolio

Core Portfolio (67%)

In our view, the core portfolio should be constructed with the longest possible timeframe and expectation of returns better than other asset classes, e.g., fixed income, gold, and real estate. We call it “Generational Portfolio” signifying that these are stocks are such that could be passed on to next generation comfortably.

Strategy

Accumulate by buying 10-15% quantity in each month beginning November 2013.

Hold till the investment theme remains valid.

Rebalance for any major change once in a year

(Alternatives: Nestle, Britannia, Asian Paints, Dabur, )

Tactical portfolio (33%)

The tactical portfolio should have a time perspective of next economic cycle (normally 3-5yrs) with a relatively higher return expectation.

Strategy

Accumulate by buying 10-15% quantity in each month beginning November 2013.

Hold for 3-5years or more.

Rebalance for any major change once in a year.

(Alternatives: Tata Steel, Eicher, Glenmark, M&M Finan., Ashok Ley)

Also read the following:

Looking beyond 2014

Constructing a model portfolio

Why be contrarian?

Thought for the day

“I have made a ceaseless effort not to ridicule, not to bewail, not to scorn human actions, but to understand them.”

—Baruch Spinoza (Dutch, 1632-1677)

Word of the day

Obverse (n)

The side of a coin, medal, flag, etc., that bears the principal design (opposed to reverse)

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

The rise of Women power in global banking space is a definite indicator of the structural changes in the offing.

In the coming decades we might see many business model collapsing and more Lehmans biting the dust!

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It is important to note that InvesTrekk is a purely research oriented firm and does not offer any portfolio management , brokerage, money management or investment advisory services of any kind. The model portfolios are only for illustrative purposes. Please take advise of a qualified and registered investment advisor before taking any investment decision.

InvesTrekk Research Reports provide generalized macro investment strategy to its subscribers.. Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes an offer or an invitation to make an offer, to buy or sell any securities or other financial instrument or any derivative related to such securities or instruments (e.g., options, futures, warrants, and contracts for differences). InvesTrekk reports are not intended to provide personal investment advice and it does not take into account the specific investment objectives, financial situation and the particular needs of any specific person. Investors should seek financial advice regarding the appropriateness of investing in financial instruments and implementing investment strategies discussed or recommended in the reports and should understand that statements regarding future prospects may not be realized.

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Why be contrarian?

It is a common perception among countrymen that the Congress Party and therefore UPA government is controlled by the Gandhi family, mostly Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and her son Mr. Rahul Gandhi.

It is also a popular practice for the Congressmen to publically ascribe all successful endeavor of the government or the Congress Party to the Gandhi family and all the failures and delinquencies of the government and Congress Party to others.

The paradox however is that when someone conforms to the said perception and practice usually no one believes him/her.

For example, when a Congress spokesperson ascribes the loss of Congress party in last UP election to the local Party unit rather than Rahul Gandhi – not a soul in the country believes him. The spokesperson fully knows that no one will likely believe his statement, but still he/she makes it.

Similarly, the government’s media campaign claims credit for MNREGA, Food Security, Aadhar, RTI, Bharat Nirman, but Congress spokespersons ascribe all this to Mrs. Gandhi. Often when at a press briefing about cabinet decisions someone says that the Cabinet took ‘X’ decision, no one takes it at par. The popular retort is that the decisions are taken at 10 Janpath, the Cabinet just endorses it. But still the practice goes on.

The unfortunate part is that when a Congress leader does make an honest statement, like the Criminal Politician Ordinance bashing at the Press Club in Delhi, no one believes him/her either. (Also see Another Good Omen)

The point in contention is that when the person making a statement knows that no one will believes him/her; person listening to such statement knows what the statement is going to be and that he/she is not going to believe that – then why the farce is continuing?

In our view, this highlights the natural tendency of people to be conformist and futility of being contrarian.

In constructing our model portfolio (Also see Looking beyond 2014 and Constructing a model portfolio) we struggled with this complexity a lot. We examined many contrarian views and ideas and also examined the success of these views and ideas in anteriority. We discovered that there have been many isolated cases of large gains being made through contrarian ideas/view. But most contrarian investors who did not convert to conformism usually perished. Most successful legendary investors have conformed to the classical investment theory.

We therefore decided not to care about contrarian view/ideas in construction of a model portfolio that is aimed primarily for household investors and not professional fund managers.

This makes our strategy boring and predictable. But then we are not in the business of entertainment. The wealth creation is a serious business and so should be the process.

Thought for the day

“Extreme positions are not succeeded by moderate ones, but by contrary extreme positions.”

— Friedrich Nietzsche (German, 1844-1900)

Word of the day

Tittup (v)

To move, especially to walk, in an exaggerated prancing or bouncing way, as a spirited horse.

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

What does Yellen as Fed Chief mean—

(a) More QE

(b) No tapering anytime soon

(c) No change in policy stance, i.e., measured tapering during 2014

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

Constructing a model portfolio

Constructing a model Indian equity portfolio is somewhat similar to electing members for Indian parliament. Investors like electorate have limited choice.

As suggested yesterday, there are not more than 100 companies that have demonstrated capabilities to remain relevant over many business cycles due to their product, market and technology leadership, strong financial position, lower beta to macro fundamentals, and proven managerial capabilities. Only 80 odd companies have given consistent good positive return over past 10years, 5year and 3year time horizon.

We took three approaches to identifying companies for our model portfolio.

Firstly we applied a slight variation of the classical investment approach. We looked at value of various companies and short listed the companies which have been, still are and will likely remain relevant in Indian and global economic conditions. However, since there are just a few of these businesses are available in India, these companies invariably trade at premium valuation. Hence we had to abandon the “buy at low price” principle. About 100 listed companies fit the basket.

Secondly, we applied a simple “historical economic value added (EVA)” rule to all listed companies, and identified companies that have consistently given positive EVA to shareholders over past 10years at least. About 80 odd companies fulfilled the criteria selected by us. All these companies were there in the list constructed using the first approach.

Thirdly, we surveyed some veteran investors, analysts, and brokers asking for their subjective opinion about the best investible companies in India. Based on their perception we created a list which contained 58 names. 52 of these 58 names were there in the list constructed using the second criteria.

We finally selected 25 companies from this list. The key leanings in the process were that —

(a) Applying complex valuation criteria for company selection could be useful for professional investment managers whose mandate is just to outperform his/her peers over relatively short time frame. However, in the wealth creation endeavor of households, it may not hold much weight. For example, many PSU stocks do perform well in some part of a market cycle, but most of them have not eventually created wealth for investors.

(b) EVA to the shareholder may be the most useful investment criteria for household investors.

For example, a company that has given more than 20% EVA over past more than 20year or 3-4 economic cycles, is more likely to be beneficial to its stakeholders in the following economic cycles than the companies that have historically failed in rewarding its stakeholders or have erratic in their economic and financial performance. Amongst Nifty companies, ITC and JPA are two good examples to illustrate this point.

(c) Over 90% of the companies that have created euphoria or excessive excitement over a small period of time, have eventually caused tremendous losses to investors. For example, consider Suzlon and DLF.

…to continue

Thought for the day

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

— Confucius (Chinese,551-479BC)

Word of the day

Picaro (n)

A rogue or vagabond.

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

Could elevation of Arundhati Bhattachary catalyze a wave of fist generation women entrepreneurs in the country?

Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Looking beyond 2014

It could be a matter of debate whether the current economic down cycle will hit the rock in FY15 or the economy will continue to slither down even in FY16. One may also argue over the shape of the recovery, viz., it will be a ‘V’ or ‘U’ or ‘J’ or an “L’ shaped recovery.

However there could be little difference of opinion that the economy would continue to struggle with below par growth through 1H2014 at the least.

The election season has already been kicked off in India. If the recent round of policy statements by US Federal Reserve (Fed), European Central Bank (ECB), Bank of England (BoE) and Bank of Japan (BoJ) and utterances of IMF and ADB provide any indication – the monetary stimulus driven global economic recovery is firmly stuck in first gear and not likely to pick up speed in near future. The political impasse in US over critical fiscal Bills is also not helping the cause.

Under the circumstances, for being relevant, any investment strategy has to be focused on the time horizon that looks at least beyond 2014 if not 2015.

InvesTrekk therefore has decided to modify the construct of equity strategy and accordingly its model portfolio.

Changing from present absolute return portfolio that focuses on a 12month horizon with a return target of 10% over the consensus nominal GDP growth forecast, we suggest the following strategy:

(a) The portfolio should be divided into two parts – (a) Core portfolio (67%) and (b) Tactical portfolio (33%).

The investee companies therefore should be such that have demonstrated capabilities to remain relevant over many business cycles due to their product, market and technology leadership, strong financial position, lower beta to macro fundamentals, proven managerial capabilities. An analysis of the companies listed on BSE suggests that not more than 100 companies would fit the basket. We have selected 25 out of these.

The core portfolio should be constructed with the longest possible timeframe and expectation of returns better than other asset classes, e.g., fixed income, gold, and real estate. We call it “Generational Portfolio” signifying that these are stocks are such that could be passed on to next generation comfortably.

The tactical portfolio should have a time perspective of next economic cycle (normally 3-5yrs) with a higher return expectation.

(b) The adverse valuation argument for some of the core portfolio could be handled with opportunistic trading positions thus bringing the cost down.

(c) The portfolio should be constructed over next 6months period to account for the major local political event (election) and global liquidity event (tapering).

…to continue tomorrow

Thought for the day

“Whether zeal or moderation be the point we aim at, let us keep fire out of the one, and frost out of the other.”

— Joseph Addison (English, 1672-1719)

Word of the day

Malign (v)

To speak harmful untruths about; speak evil of; slander; defame:

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

Should the people choosing to participate in electoral politics be mandatorily required to begin from the lowest level, i.e., Panchayat or Municipality and move up the ladder through state assembly?

If done, no one could become MP unless he/she has at least 10yrs of experience as elected representative. Most dynasties would end here.

Monday, October 7, 2013

Finding structural stories in a cyclical economy

India, encompassing society, economy and markets, is indubitably passing through a period of crisis. However, the current phase of crisis is not the first, not the last or the worst ever. In fact, since gaining geographical independence in 1947, the country has consistently been under crisis of all sorts with some brief periods of respite patched in between.

The current down trend in Indian socio-political and economic spheres presents an opportunity, in our view, to make a holistic assessment of the six decades of progress (or otherwise, as some would like to argue) and make necessary mid course correction.

From an investor viewpoint, it is important to assess whether there is anything structural in India story or it is all cyclical. We believe that so far India has been a cyclical story in all respects and we have completely failed in evolving any structural socio-political and socio-economic model that would put Indian economy on a sustainable growth path. Besides a few random instances of excellence like space research, there is little evidence of the force that is needed to catapult us in the higher economic orbit.

Speaking specifically about financial markets, in our view, Indian market behaved like a classical cyclical business. For example, consider the following:

Since 1989 the stock market has seen strong bull phase only during 7year period between 1989-1992 and 2003-07. The shallowness of bull phases could be assessed from the fact that 2002 NIFTY closing level was lower than 1992 and NIFTY has never closed near the 2007 closing level since then. Rest 16years have been of moderate to severe bear phases.

Not more than 100 companies would have created net wealth for common shareholders over past twenty five years. To the contrary, the number of corporates responsible for destroying common shareholders’ wealth is much larger.

At micro level, many of the deep cyclical businesses, like power and construction, have been popularly marketed as structural growth stories. Consequently, the wealth destruction by mistakenly called blue chips like BHEL, DLF, JPA, Suzlon, ABAN etc. has been excruciating.

More recently, the Congress led UPA-II government (2009-2014) has been criticized for ‘policy paralysis’ leading to halt of growth momentum seen during NDA (1998-2004) and UPA-I (2004-2009) periods. The critique is perhaps based on the assumption that high growth seen during 2004-2008 was structural and hence sustainable. Whereas, the macro data highlights otherwise.

In our view, the genesis of the current crisis could be found in the piecemeal reforms and expansionary policies seen in the wake of economic sanctions post nuclear tests in 1998 and global slowdown in 2001-02. The UPA government perhaps has just perpetuated the malaise.

In coming days, we shall discuss these issues in some detail.

Thought for the day

“Sometimes you mistake sunset for dawn.”

-Unknown

Word of the day

Finagle (v):

To trick, swindle, or cheat (a person) (often followed by out of).

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

If death is an occupational hazard; who is martyr?

Enough fodder for Bulls and honey for Bears – II

Last Friday we highlighted that in our view, Nifty would likely gyrate in the range of 4700-6700 in next 15months, i.e., a range of 15-18% from the current level.

We suggested that the catalysts for the move on the upside would largely be domestic and therefore increased domestic participation and return of EM generally in favor is the key to the bull case for the market.

Case for 4700

The down move in Nifty, in our view would largely be driven by external factors leading to significant outflow of funds and/or relative downgrade of Indian equities by global investors.

Historically, large FII flows in a short period of time have caused huge volatility in Indian equity markets. A reversal of USD carry trade, if and when US Federal Reserve decides to moderate liquidity conditions in US, will certainly cause this event.

Though in our view, the liquidity moderation would not be disruptive to the global economy, in the short term it will certainly lead to global rise in cost of capital and weakening of currencies with higher CAD, like INR.

The recent measures to arrest INR fall have exposed our BoP situation to greater volatility and risk of sudden shocks. Tightening of credit in developed markets especially US might lead to sudden withdrawal of FCNR deposits. The swap window for OMCs can also be not kept open for ever; and RBI would need to recoup the USD put to work while defending INR.

A jerk in the fragile European conditions, both politically and economically, might trigger the exodus from emerging markets like the case was in 2011.

A 1996 like political situation post election could lead to further de-rating of Indian equities by global investors. Not realization of 6-8% earnings CAGR over FY14-16, like FY09-FY11, could also be a dampener.

In strict technical terms, Nifty needs to test levels close to 4500 in last corrective Elliot wave in next 15months.

Strategy

In our view, while Nifty will likely gyrate between 4700-6700, it may still continue to average close to 5700 in next 15months and settle at higher levels in 2015-16.

We therefore suggest building investment portfolio in a staggered fashion over next 6months – during which period we shall likely get impact of domestic political event (election) and global liquidity event (tapering).

We suggest an optimum mix of domestic and global plays, with strong focus on balance sheet strength, pricing power, profitability, and beta to domestic macro-economic fundamentals.

Tomorrow we shall suggest list of our preferred stocks to be accumulated over next 6months.

Thought for the day

“Realists do not fear the results of their study.”

Fyodor Dostoevsky (Russian, 1821-1881 )

Word of the day

Hoosgow (n)

Jail

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

What will occur first Nifty 4700 or Nifty 6700?

Friday, October 4, 2013

Enough fodder for Bulls and honey for Bears - I

Despite alarming deterioration in many macro indicators, fall in currency value, hike in rates, sub-par corporate performance and moderation in flow (both domestic and external) during 1HFY14, the Indian equities have been rather resilient. Nifty has averaged ~5800 in 1HFY14, almost same as 2HFY13.

The collective wisdom of the market therefore appears to be much more sanguine about the economic conditions, and therefore corporate performance, as compared to most sell side analysts.

In our view, both of these two may eventually prove to be right. Nifty may gyrate in the range of 4700-6700 in next 15months, i.e., a range of 15-18% from the current level.

We evaluate the cases for 4700 and 6700 Nifty levels and suggest a strategy which in our view would be appropriate under the circumstances.

Case for 6700

The rise in domestic participation and return of EM generally in favor is therefore the key to the bull case for the market.

In our view, the upside triggers would mostly be domestic, e.g., improvement in macro fundamentals, improved political environment post 2014 election, inflation peaking out next year on high base effect, peaking of rates, improvement in external trade, and pick up in investment cycle.

The earnings profile of large corporates with geographically diversified global business profile could help aggregate earnings numbers to show a better picture from 2HFY15. Though, mid and small enterprise should continue to struggle and post poor performance. The financials therefore would continue to experience deterioration in asset quality.

The 15-20% higher index levels will thus mostly be a consequence of 15-20% higher earnings .over FY14-FY16 rather than any multiple expansion. The multiple on the contrary might see some contraction at aggregate level. However, we may see some multiple expansion in capital goods, infra and financials while multiple of defensives contract a bit.

In strict technical terms, Nifty has potentially formed a bullish inverted Head & Shoulder pattern on weekly chart. With Left Shoulder at 5566 (Week ended 28 June 2013), Neckline at 6093 ( week ended 26 July 2013) , Head at 5118 (week ended 30 August 2013) , Neckline at 6145 (20 September) and probably right shoulder at 5700 (week ending 04 October 2013). A rally beyond 6150 on weekly close basis may take Nifty to 6700-6800 range.

We however do not see how the prospects of Nifty rising 15-20% would motivate foreign investors to specifically invest in “Indian equities” in a major way, as in all likelihood the currency will remain under pressure, rates will likely peak at elevate level and other EMs will likely outperform India should US and EU economies stablize. The rise in domestic participation and return of EM generally in favor is therefore the key to the bull case for the market.

While we do not see much chance of domestic investor coming back to equities in a big way in next 6months at least (deposit rates are rising making risk reward unfavorable), watch for deferral of US QE tapering, and further stimulus by BoJ and ECB for more clues.

On Monday we shall discuss the case for 4700 Nifty level

Thought for the day

“Maybe Christmas, the Grinch thought, doesn't come from a store.”

Dr. Seuss (American, 1904-1991)

Word of the day

Emanate (v)

To flow out, issue, or proceed, as from a source or origin; come forth; originate.

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

The SC order applies only to election to the Parliament of legislative assemblies/councils.

What about extra-constitutional posts like Chairman/Convener of NDA or UPA or Third Front.

Should those speaking against the Ordinance, amend their respective party constitutions to disqualify such persons from primary membership and all other posts.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

The corruption conundrum

The next positive turn in “India story” could therefore be that with a strong and accountable leadership at the helm (a) bureaucracy will not be afraid to take decision and (b) businessmen will feel confident that “once they pay, their work will get done”. The jammed investment cycle may hence get moving.

Anyone expecting more than this should be ready to face major disappointment.

Three notable political events have occurred this week – (a) Jagan Reddy of YSR Congress was released from Jail after 16 months and instantly got tremendous welcome from his supporters, almost bringing Hyderabad to a halt; (b) Narendra Modi addressed two gatherings (Delhi and Mumbai) and got tremendous response; and (c) Lalu Prasad Yadav, RJD Chief was convicted and arrested in 17years old fodder scam and just few hundred of RJD supporters got mildly agitated that too mostly in front of TV cameras-no stone pelting, no Bihar Bandh, no effigy burning, no arson.

These events, read under the shadow of recently broken lamp of infamous “Let Criminals Contest Elections Ordinance” present a conundrum that needs to be solved to understand where the fabled “India story” is headed.

It is too early to talk about the dénouement but the next “turn” could probably be foreseen.

In our “Discover India” trip this summer we had discovered that “corruption” may not be an issue for a vast majority of our youth population at least not in the way we would like it to be. (see here)

The heroic welcome to Jagan Reddy flails the claims that young voters are less tolerant of corruption. Narendra Modi’s willingness, (not wrong to say eagerness) to seek alliance with Jagan Reddy, B. S. Yeddurappa, O. P. Chautala, and perhaps Mayawati, also highlights that probity in public life is not a major issue at this point in time, notwithstanding the public discourse. Congress party’s alliance with JMM and RJD in Jharkhand also vindicates this view.

The argument that the UPA regime has seen maximum number of politicians going to jail and hence it should be credited with making substantial progress in cleansing of Indian polity is also flawed. Because Congress only let those go to jail who had lost relevance to it. A. Raja and Konimozhi went to jail after DMK lost badly in Tamil Nadu and it was clear that it is becoming a liability to Congress. Otherwise there is a long list of who should have but did not make it to jail.

In our view therefore the argument that India is growing less tolerant to corruption is completely invalid at this point in time.

However, if a decisive and strong leadership emerges at the center, there are good chances that corruption gets centralized and less brazen. Those who watch UP closely would appreciate our view better. Under a decisively strong leadership of Mayawati, the life of common man was much better than it is under the present regime.

The next positive turn in India story could therefore be that with a strong and accountable leadership at the helm (a) bureaucracy will not be afraid to take decision and (b) businessmen will feel confident that “once they pay, their work will get done”. The jammed investment cycle may hence get moving.

Anyone expecting more than this should be ready to face major disappointment.

On a lighter note, the recent political events in USA and Italy demonstrate that politicians are same everywhere.

Also read:

Corruption matters. Alas! Not the way it should

Thought for the day

“It is dangerous to be right in matters on which the established authorities are wrong.”

Voltaire (French, 1694-1778)

Word of the day

Capricious (adj)

Apt to change suddenly; whimsical; changeable.

(Source: Dictionary.com)

Shri Nārada Uvāca

What should RJD leaders now be doing?

(a) Forget Lalu & Sons, elect a new leader and move on.

(b) Anoint his son and slither into oblivion.

(c) Forget Lalu & Sons and make JDU more united.

(d) Forget JP and RML and join Congress.