The Big Picture: Reflections on Our Economic Times

Description:

This book, a rare blend of academic erudition and elegant writing, is a guide to some of the central themes and debates in the realm of economic policy and the world of business in recent years. A compilation of the author's columns in The Economic Times over a six-year period, it ranges over five broad themes: the financial sector, Indian economy, corporate governance, privatisation and the international economy. The author has added an introductory note that summarises the principal issue in each of the broad themes. He has also interviewed an eminent personality for each theme: Bimal Jalan, T. N. Srinivasan, N. Vaghul, G. V. Ramakrishna and Lawrence White.

Basing his arguments on theory as well as empirical evidence, the author takes positions that are often contrarian and critical of the conventional wisdom, but have been vindicated over time. In its advocacy of a non-ideological approach to privatisation in the Indian context and its insistence on the continued relevance of public sector banks, for instance, his writings long anticipated the recent shift in national sentiment on these issues.

Drawing on his varied background as a management consultant, investment banker, financial journalist and academic, the author comes up with insights that provoke and delight and have earned him a wide readership. The book will serve as a useful reference for policy makers, corporate executives, financial analysts as well as students seeking to make sense of the welter of news in these eventful times.

Target Audience:

People interested in economics and management.