Indian Envoy Rings Nasdaq Bell, Says 7.8% Growth Keeps India Fastest-Growing Major Economy

Indian Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, rang the opening bell at the Nasdaq stock exchange in New York on Wednesday, while asserting that India remains the world's fastest-growing major economy. He pointed to the country's 7.8 per cent GDP growth in the first quarter of the 2026-27 fiscal year as evidence of this continued momentum.

The Nasdaq stock exchange, located in the heart of Times Square, is one of the most prominent global financial markets. Its opening bell ceremony marks the start of the trading day and often features corporate leaders, government officials, and other dignitaries. Kwatra was joined by Acting Consul General of India in New York, Vishal Harsh, and other officials.

Addressing those gathered, Kwatra said, "India is undergoing a significant economic and technological transformation, driven by strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, expanding digital capabilities and a young and talented workforce." He referred to India's latest GDP growth for the April-June quarter and said the country remains "the fastest-growing large economy" in the world.

The ambassador highlighted the importance of technology partnerships between India and the United States. "One of the greatest pillars of our current and the emerging partnership is the collaboration with the technology leadership companies on Nasdaq for technology, technology-linked capital, technology infrastructure, and mobility of skilled professionals," he stated.

Kwatra also spoke about India's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the country's goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. He said that as India advances on this path, it looks forward to "an even stronger partnership with American businesses, investors and institutions."

The bell-ringing was performed on behalf of the government and people of India, as well as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was scheduled to arrive in New York later in the day. Sitharaman had attended the G20 finance ministerial meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, prior to her arrival. The G20 meeting brings together finance ministers from major economies to discuss global financial stability, though Kwatra did not elaborate on its deliberations.

Describing the ceremony, Kwatra said it signifies confidence in enterprise and innovation. "It represents confidence in enterprise, innovation and the possibility of future partnership between India and the companies of the Nasdaq. This spirit resonates very strongly with India," he said.

In a post on X, Kwatra wrote: "It was a pleasure to ring the opening bell at Nasdaq to mark the growing strength and promise of the India-USA partnership. India is undergoing a significant economic and technological transformation, driven by a strong entrepreneurial spirit. The companies listed here are one of the great pillars of that partnership."

The Nasdaq opening bell event is often used by global leaders to signal confidence in markets and investment opportunities. Kwatra's presence underscores India's focus on deepening technology and capital ties with the United States, particularly with firms listed on the exchange.