Outlook Among Indians 2025: A Mixed Bag of Hope and Concerns
As 2024 drew to a close, the sentiment among Indians reflected a nuanced mix of hope and caution regarding the year ahead. According to Ipsos Predictions Survey, 2025, 71% urban Indians mention that 2024 was a disappointing year for the country, marking a six-point increase from the previous year. This sentiment suggests a growing disenchantment with the events and developments in 2024. The optimism that 2025 will be a better year for them personally compared to 2024 has also seen a decline, dropping by 11 points from the previous year - indicating a tempered outlook for the future, given how 2024 has unfolded. There is also a broader apprehension about global economic recovery and stability – there is 12-point decrease from last year in the belief that global economy will be stronger in 2025 than it was in 2024.
The optimism that 2025 will be a better year for them personally compared to 2024 has also seen a decline, dropping by 11 points from the previous year - indicating a tempered outlook for the future, given how 2024 has unfolded.
There is also a broader apprehension about global economic recovery and stability – there is 12-point decrease from last year in the belief that global economy will be stronger in 2025 than it was in 2024.
Despite this disappointment, there remains a noticeable streak of optimism. While a majority of Indians still expect inflation and interest rates to rise, a 9-point decline in the percentage as compared to previous year suggests some optimism about these economic indicators for the country.
Additionally, there are some sectors which reflect growth and buoyancy (based on recent figures available1) – Q- commerce players reflected a growth of 110-130% in Q3 2024 as compared to previous year, two wheeler sales saw a 16% growth in 2024 (time period Jan- Nov vs. 2023), investments in mutual funds increased significantly (~48% growth in SIPs for the period April- Nov 2024, compared to same time period in 2023) – indicating growing investor confidence and participation in the market.
Both optimism and concern are reflected in Ipsos Global Trends, 2024 as well - on one hand, increasing despair and despondency among the Indian Urban masses (with the pressures of inflation/ rising food prices and unemployment– the top 2 consistent concerns among Indians as per Ipsos What worries the World 2024), and a reduced pride in the nation.
On the other hand, with increased trust in business leaders, there is an opportunity for brands and corporates to build trust with consumers through authentic/ transparent messaging, and an empathetic connect given the mood of the nation.
In conclusion, while there is a desire for improvement and a better future among Indians, there is also a recognition of the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. This dual sentiment of hope and concern underscores the complexity of public mood as India transitions into 2025.
