Volatility in global markets rarely comes from balance sheets alone; more often it flows from geopolitics, policy shifts and strategic uncertainty. One such overhang today is the ongoing suspense around the India–US trade negotiations. While both nations remain engaged to arrive at a mutually beneficial deal, the possibility of tariff-related disruptions has kept exporters and investors cautious.
The United States: India’s Largest Export Anchor
There is no denying the importance of the United States for India’s trade ecosystem. In FY24–25, the US accounted for nearly 20% of India’s total exports, amounting to USD 86.5 billion, making it our single largest export destination. Key sectors such as engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, and textiles have built strong demand linkages with the US market over the years.
Strategic Export Diversification
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However, what deserves equal attention and appreciation is how strategically India is positioning itself to reduce over-dependence on any one geography. Rather than waiting passively for the outcome of the US negotiations, India has been quietly but aggressively building alternative export corridors across Europe, the Middle East, Oceania regions like Australia, New Zealand and Latin America.
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India–European Union FTA
ETMarkets.com
Source : MOC&I
The most significant step in this direction has been the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement with the European Union (EU), often described as the “mother of all trade deals.” The agreement envisages the removal of tariffs on over 99% of Indian exports to EU, currently valued at approximately USD 75.76 billion, while progressively opening key segments of the Indian market to European Union participants. Over the longer term, the objective is to almost double bilateral trade volumes between India and the EU, significantly strengthening economic integration between the two regions. For sectors like textiles, this is a game-changer. Historically, India faced higher tariffs in Europe compared to competitors such as Vietnam and Bangladesh, putting Indian exporters at a price disadvantage. With tariffs now coming down, Indian textile companies can compete on equal footing in what is the world’s second-largest export market after the US. Over time, this significantly reduces the sector’s heavy reliance on American demand. The electronics sector stands to benefit just as strongly. Currently, nearly 38% of India’s electronics exports are directed towards the US. The EU, on the other hand, represents a massive USD 750 billion electronics market, where India’s current penetration is still under USD 100 billion. The FTA opens the door for Indian manufacturers to diversify revenue streams and scale meaningfully in Europe. Pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, and engineering goods also gain access to a large, high-value consumer base, offering both volume growth and pricing stability.
Expanding the Trade Map
Complementing the EU deal is the recently signed trade agreement with the United Kingdom. The UK currently absorbs around 3.5% of India’s exports, but the new framework provides duty-free access on 99% of Indian goods and targets bilateral trade of USD 100 billion in the coming years. Once again, the biggest beneficiaries are the same export-heavy sectors that are most exposed to the US market. India has also inked FTAs with Oman and New Zealand, which are smaller in scale but strategically important for expanding market presence and building resilient trade networks.
Strengthening Middle East and Asia Corridors
Beyond signed agreements, negotiations are progressing rapidly with countries such as Australia, Chile, Peru, Korea and the Maldives. The urgency reflects a clear diplomatic and economic intent: India wants diversified trade partnerships before any global protectionist wave strengthens.
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Even relationship repair efforts with nations like Canada and deeper engagement with the UAE, India’s second-largest trade partner, underline this broader strategy. India and the UAE aim to double bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032, further strengthening India’s presence in the Middle East corridor.
Conclusion
From an investor’s lens, this is not just about trade numbers; it is about risk management at a national level. The US will continue to remain a critical partner for India. There is no realistic scenario where India disengages from the American market, nor should it. But what India is systematically ensuring is that no single country holds disproportionate influence over its export-driven sectors or broader economic trajectory. This diversification brings negotiating power, economic stability, and long-term growth resilience.
As markets remain sensitive to headlines around the India–US deal, investors should also recognise the bigger picture unfolding quietly in the background. India is not merely reacting to trade pressure; it is reshaping its global economic footprint.
The administrator winding down Do Kwon’s Terraform Labs has sued Jane Street, alleging that the high-speed trading giant engaged in insider trading to profit unlawfully from and ultimately hasten the crypto empire’s collapse.
Todd Snyder, the plan administrator appointed by a bankruptcy court, is seeking damages from Jane Street, its co-founder Robert Granieri, and employees Bryce Pratt and Michael Huang.
Dubai, UAE – Dubai once again reinforced its position as a global hub for excellence and innovation at the Global Excellence & Leadership Awards, Dubai 2026, presented by Insights Success Media, which brought together the world’s most influential leaders under one prestigious platform. The ceremony celebrated transformative leadership, breakthrough innovation, and measurable industry impact across diverse sectors.
The ceremony honored leaders across diverse sectors, including electric mobility and sustainable innovation, finance, AI, healthcare, marketing, real estate, aviation, banking, women’s leadership, education, and corporate transformation.
Among the distinguished honorees were.
Electric Mobility & Sustainable Innovation
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Leading the charge in sustainable progress and technological advancement were distinguished pioneers redefining infrastructure and environmental responsibility:
Mr. Samir Hmicho – Leading Electric Vehicle Transformation – Chairman of the Board
Raymond George – Innovative Building Materials Company of the Year 2026 – Leading the Way in Sustainable Waterproofing
Abdul Qaiyum Alidin – Visionary Leader in Aerospace & Sustainable Innovation
Dr. Daere Akobo – Visionary Leader in Energy, Infrastructure, and Digital Transformation
Financial Leadership & Corporate Excellence
Recognizing strategic foresight and financial stewardship, the awards celebrated global finance leaders shaping economic ecosystems and corporate resilience:
Mr. José Antonio Sánchez Marín – Excellence in Financial Leadership and Strategic Consultancy Award
Satish Ramakrishnan – Outstanding Financial Executive of the Year
Safouane Khcherif – Excellence in Corporate Finance Leadership
Rony Daou – Financial Strategist of the Year
Peter Ristevski – Outstanding Global Leader in Tax Innovation & Asset Protection – 2026
Akil Shah – Co-Sponsor / Middle East’s Most Trusted Accounting & Tax Firm, 2026
Marichelvam R. – Global Excellence in Finance Leadership & Community Impact Award
Mohamed Bellal – Finance Innovators Transforming Strategy into Growth
Arindam Sarkar – Global Aviation Finance Leader of the Year
Abby Liang – Global CFO of the Year (Founder & CFO, Metaworld Consultant)
LINH T TRỊNH-AN – Women in Finance Leadership & Impact Award
CEO, COO & Executive Leadership
Honoring transformative executive vision and organizational leadership excellence:
Joel Perri – Number One CEO Coach in the World; First & Only Omni-Platform #1 Top Global Leadership Headliner Keynote Dynastic Star
Ayman Elbayaa – CEO of the Year 2026
Shohreh Abedi – NextGen COO 2026: Transforming the Landscape of US Operations
Noushad Ismail – Most Influential COO in UAE Banking
AbdullaAltaee – Saudi Arabia’s Top General Manager Leadership Award 2026
Rohit Chug – Saudi’s Most Visionary Corporate Executive of the Year 2026
Ronnie Surty – Bahrain’s Most Impactful Leader Powering the Gulf Region
Abu Bakar – Visionaries of 2026: The Leader Redefining the Future
Aleksandr Mamasidikov – The Visionary Founder Redefining Banking & Finance, 2026
Ahmed J. Jabbar – The Global Visionary to Follow in 2026
Dr. Shweta Narang – Global Excellence & Leadership Award in Medical Diagnostics 2026
M. Sehzaad Peerbucus – Award for Outstanding Achievement in Business Excellence (Founder and CEO, Hammersmith Management Ltd)
Gail Courneyea – 35-Year Legacy of AeroSafety Award
Khaled Haj Younes – Excellence in Business Innovation Award – Medical & Aesthetic Sector
Technology, AI & Digital Transformation
In the rapidly evolving digital era, these leaders stood out for advancing cybersecurity, quantum innovation, cloud transformation, and AI-powered ecosystems:
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Rajan Jha – Global Icon of Cybersecurity & AI Leadership, 2026
Imad Syed – 2026’s Top Visionary Leader Transforming the IT Landscape
Rakesh Ramankutty – Global Icon Leading Digital Transformation Across Cloud Platforms – 2026
Amr Elazab – Next-Gen Quantum Leaders: Shaping the Future Today
Syed Javeed Shah – Technology & Digital Transformation Leadership – Africa Category
Bahwan Cybertek – Most Disruptive Tech Product of the Year
Unmesh Deshpande – IT Infrastructure Visionary of the Year (Technology Leader, Wockhardt Hospitals)
Mile Jelic – Cybersecurity Strategy & Growth Leader of the Year 2026 (Comtrade System Integration)
Seinetime (ANH-PHUONG, FELIX TA & SEINETIME) – The World’s First Domain-Independent Agentic Intelligence Platform
Healthcare, Wellness & MedTech
Celebrating impact-driven leadership across healthcare strategy, primary care, wellness innovation, and MedTech advancements:
Carolyn M. Rubin – Influential Woman Leader in Healthcare Strategy & Organizational Growth
Katleen Verleysen – MedTech Visionary Leader of the Year 2026
Sofica Bistriceanu – Excellence in Primary Care Award 2026
Agnes George – Global Excellence in Diabetes Transformation Coaching
Dr. Parveen Smith – Global Transformative Leader in Wellness & Empowerment
Jun Tachibana – Influential Global Business Leader in Oral Healthcare
Dr. Riza Kadilar – Coaching and Mentorship Leadership Award (Business Leaders, K Ventures)
Sylvia Dr. Paulig – Global Thought Leadership Award (CEO / Ophthalmic Surgeon, Paulig Eye & Health)
Dr. Markus Meier – Healthcare CEO of the Year 2026
Dr. Taj Mohammed Fiyaz Chowdhry – Innovative Healthcare Leadership Award 2026
Prof. Dr. B. Durgaprasad Reddy – Outstanding Cardiothoracic Surgeon of the Year 2026
Real Estate, Infrastructure & Construction
Recognizing leaders shaping urban landscapes and advancing sustainable construction:
Dr. Bumal Murchoyea – Visionary Leader Transforming Real Estate Development
Kavita Doshi – Visionary Leader Transforming Sustainable Real Estate & Community Impact
Francis Christy Boy – Visionary Leadership Award for Transforming Construction Through Digital Innovation
Vwakpor Efuetanu – Architectural Visionary of the Year
Banking, Insurance & Corporate Governance
Acknowledging those strengthening governance frameworks, insurance leadership, and financial intelligence:
Mr. Shahzad Saxena – Leading Insurance Company Driving Confidence in the Middle East
Hammad Khan – Most Influential Leader in Insurance 2026
Eng. Mohammad Bamogaddam – Outstanding CEO Shaping the Future of Credit Intelligence
Jessica Soledad Cáceres – Global Excellence Award in Digital Governance, Compliance & Corporate Ethics
Branding, Marketing & Industry Leadership
Celebrating strategic brand architects and commercial leaders redefining market influence:
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Amir A. Kolahzadeh – Title Sponsor / Innovative Brand Strategist of the Year
Rana Yakzan – Global Trading Innovation Leader
Patrick Czerka – Engineering Leadership Excellence Award
Wail Muhrzi – Logistics Leadership Excellence Award
Mr. Fayez Awadeh – Marketing Leadership Excellence Award – Pharma Sector 2026
Mr. Mohamed Metwally – Commercial Leadership Excellence Award – Pharma Sector 2026
Abdulla Ahmad Faraj – Emirati Leader of Excellence in Sports Media & Marketing
Cristian Acampora – Keynote Speaker & Impact Leader of the Year (GM – Master Trainer & Mental Coach, Blackship)
Women Leadership & Global Impact
Highlighting exceptional women leaders driving strategic influence and transformative change worldwide:
Rania Awadallah & Mennan Awadallah – Egypt’s Next-Gen Women Leaders Making Their Mark 2026
Ruchi Agnihotri – South Africa’s Top Managing Director to Follow
Nashay Lowe – Global Icon in Leadership Communication & Conflict Transformation, 2026
Razyka Bel – Middle East’s Most Influential Woman in Government Affairs & Regional Operations
Boston Moonsamy – Most Visionary Women Leaders Driving Growth in 2026
Dr. Dianne Kristine Joy Closa Bonsol – Excellence in Care: Woman Doctor of the Year 2026
Coaching, Mentorship & Thought Leadership
Celebrating pioneers in transformational coaching, mentorship, and global thought leadership who inspire individuals and organizations to reach their fullest potential:
Dr. Riza Kadilar – Coaching and Mentorship Leadership Award (K Ventures)
Lynn Kleinsmith – Women in Coaching Excellence and Influence Award (elev8 Global Coaching)
Cristian Acampora – Keynote Speaker & Impact Leader of the Year (Blackship)
Sylvia Dr. Paulig – Global Thought Leadership Award (Paulig Eye & Health)
Education, Talent & Social Impact
Recognizing institutions and individuals shaping the future of education, recruitment, and social development:
KAUMEYA Language Schools – Middle East’s Top Academic Hubs Redefining Learning
Hande Kizir – IT Talent Recruitment Leader of the Year 2026
Wazma Jawlan – Social Impact Leader of the Year
Adnan Sab’a Al Aish – Nigeria’s Top Business Icons 2026
Banking and Digital Transformation
Recognizing institutions and individuals shaping the future of banking through digital innovation and transformation:
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Marta Mroz-Sipiora – Excellence in Banking Digital Transformation
Noushad Ismail – Most Influential COO in UAE Banking
Aleksandr Mamasidikov – The Visionary Founder Redefining Banking & Finance, 2026
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It doesn’t take much to cause tumultuous stock moves in a market top-heavy with tech shares and jumpy about the prospects for artificial intelligence.
But nothing underlines the sensitivity of stocks right now quite like what happened on Monday, when one of the factors behind the Dow’s 800-point drop was a 7,000-word hypothetical.
eXp World Holdings, Inc. (EXPI) Q4 2025 Earnings Call February 24, 2026 5:00 PM EST
Company Participants
Leo Pareja – Chief Executive Officer Jesse Hill – Chief Financial Officer Glennn Sanford – Founder, Chairman & CEO Holly Mabery – Chief Brokerage Officer Carrie Lysenko – Chief Technology Officer of eXp Realty
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Conference Call Participants
Denise Garcia Thomas White – D.A. Davidson & Co., Research Division
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Presentation
Denise Garcia
[Audio Gap] Please see our filings with the SEC, including our most recently filed annual report on Form 10-K, and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for a discussion of specific risks that may affect our business performance and financial condition. We assume no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or information. As a reminder, today’s call is being recorded, and a replay will also be made available on expworldholdings.com.
Now for a few logistics and we’ll get started. For those of you joining in Frame today, welcome to our Metaverse on the web. To zoom into a specific screen, you can click on that screen and then click zoom in. If the content on the screen disappears or if you lose audio, simply refresh the page. While in Frame, if you need help, just use the help button at the bottom right to link with tech support. [Operator Instructions]
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Now I’ll turn the fireside chat over to our speakers before opening up the call to questions. Leo, you may begin.
Leo Pareja Chief Executive Officer
Thanks, Denise. We’ve always been focused on driving eXp across every area of our business, and 2025 has been no different. This year, we expanded into 7 countries, increasing our international revenue 67% year-over-year to $147 million as our technology-driven model continues to disrupt the real estate industry and resonate with agents around the world. We’re constantly improving and iterating on our value stack, and we’ve launched 4
A war of words has erupted between Treasurer Rita Saffioti and her opposition number Sandra Brewer, over a request for a briefing on WA’s GST retention fight.
Katherine Hartley Short, the eldest daughter of actor and comedian Martin Short, has died at age 42. The Short family confirmed her passing in a statement released February 24, 2026, expressing profound grief and requesting privacy during this difficult time.
Martin Short
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” the family said. “The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
Katherine Short was found dead at her home in the Hollywood Hills on February 23, 2026. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the residence around 6:43 p.m. following a welfare check or possible suicide call. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed on February 24 that the manner of death was suicide, with the cause listed as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to law enforcement sources cited by multiple outlets including TMZ and PEOPLE.
Short worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, dedicating her professional life to helping individuals navigate grief, trauma, mental illness, and other challenges. She earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University and a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California. Her career focused on service in the community rather than the spotlight, despite her family’s prominence in entertainment.
Katherine Hartley Short was the eldest of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, actress Nancy Dolman. The couple married in 1980 and adopted Katherine first, followed by sons Oliver Patrick Short and Henry Hayter Short. Nancy Dolman died in August 2010 after a battle with ovarian cancer, leaving Short to raise the children as a widower. The family has remained relatively private, with the children largely staying out of the public eye.
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Martin Short, 75, known for his roles in “Saturday Night Live,” “Three Amigos!,” “Father of the Bride,” and the Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building,” has spoken openly in the past about coping with loss. He has described grief as a recurring theme in his life, having lost his parents, an older brother in a car accident, his wife, and now his daughter. In interviews, Short has emphasized humor, family, and resilience as ways to navigate tragedy.
The news of Katherine’s death has drawn widespread condolences from fans, colleagues, and the entertainment community. Tributes on social media highlighted her warmth and the family’s strength amid repeated hardships. Short’s representatives have not released further details about funeral arrangements or memorials, respecting the family’s request for privacy.
Katherine’s passing adds to a string of profound losses for the Short family. Martin Short has often reflected on the impact of grief in his memoir “I Must Say: My Life As a Humble Comedy Legend” and in conversations with friends like Steve Martin. He has described finding solace in work, relationships, and maintaining a positive outlook despite sorrow.
The tragedy underscores ongoing conversations about mental health, particularly in the context of suicide prevention. Resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available for those in need of support, offering 24/7 confidential assistance via call, text, or chat.
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Martin Short’s career spans decades of comedy and acting, earning him Emmy and Tony nominations and a devoted following. His recent projects include continued work on “Only Murders in the Building” and live tours with Steve Martin. The family has asked for privacy as they grieve, and no public events or statements beyond the initial confirmation have been announced.
Katherine Hartley Short’s life, though lived away from the limelight, touched many through her professional dedication to mental health and social work. Her memory, as described by her family, centers on the joy and light she shared with those around her. The entertainment world and her community mourn the loss while offering support to Martin Short, Oliver, Henry, and extended family during this profoundly sad time.
Australia’s startup ecosystem continues its strong momentum into 2026, with early-stage and growth companies attracting significant investor interest amid a rebound in venture capital flows. Total equity funding in Australia reached $503 million across 25 rounds in the first two months of 2026—up 27% from the same period in 2025—driven by AI, climate tech, fintech, and deep tech sectors.
While established unicorns like Canva and Airwallex dominate headlines, a new wave of rising startups is gaining traction through innovative solutions, rapid scaling, and high-profile partnerships. These emerging players, many backed by accelerators like Startmate and investors such as Blackbird Ventures, are addressing real-world challenges in healthcare, customer service, space exploration, and more.
Here are 10 rising Australian startups poised for breakthroughs in 2026, based on recent funding, product momentum, and industry buzz as of February 2026.
Lorikeet
1. **Lorikeet** (Sydney, AI customer service) Lorikeet has emerged as one of the fastest-rising AI startups in Australia, securing $35 million in funding in under a year. The platform deploys autonomous AI agents that handle complex customer support interactions, reducing reliance on human teams. With strong traction in e-commerce and SaaS, Lorikeet is expanding globally in 2026, positioning itself as a leader in agentic AI for enterprises.
2. **Andromeda** (Melbourne, robotics and aged care) Founded by Grace Brown, Andromeda develops Abi—a companion robot designed to combat loneliness in aged care facilities while supporting staff shortages. The hardware-software solution has defied skepticism around high-cost robotics startups by focusing on emotional intelligence and practical integration. With pilot programs scaling in 2026, Andromeda is drawing attention for its social impact and potential international expansion.
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3. **Kapture** (Sydney, AI-driven productivity) Kapture is building AI tools that automate repetitive knowledge work, targeting professionals in legal, finance, and consulting. Early 2026 traction includes enterprise pilots and positive feedback on its ability to handle nuanced tasks. Backed by prominent local investors, the startup is expected to announce major partnerships this year as it competes in the growing AI automation space.
4. **Gilmour Space Technologies** (Queensland, space launch) Gilmour Space is on the cusp of a major milestone in 2026: its first orbital launch attempt with the Eris rocket. The company has secured government contracts and private funding for hybrid rocket technology aimed at small satellite deployment. After years of development, a successful test flight could catapult Gilmour into the global space economy, attracting further investment and partnerships.
5. **Understanding Zoe** (location not specified, healthtech/AI diagnostics) This startup uses AI to improve diagnostic accuracy in healthcare, focusing on early detection of conditions through data analysis. With growing clinical validation and partnerships in 2026, Understanding Zoe is positioned to address Australia’s aging population and healthcare access challenges, drawing interest from health funds and hospitals.
6. **Fleet Space Technologies** (Adelaide, satellite communications) Fleet continues to scale its satellite constellation for global IoT connectivity. Recent contracts for remote monitoring in mining and agriculture highlight its edge in low-power, wide-area networks. With additional launches planned for 2026, Fleet is a key player in Australia’s space sector push.
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7. **Q-CTRL** (Sydney, quantum control software) Q-CTRL provides error-suppression tools for quantum computers, addressing one of the field’s biggest hurdles. Backed by significant funding and partnerships with global tech firms, the company is expanding applications in defense and finance, with 2026 expected to bring major milestones in quantum hardware integration.
8. **Harrison.ai** (Sydney, AI healthcare diagnostics) Specializing in AI for medical imaging and pathology, Harrison.ai has seen rapid adoption in hospitals. Its tools improve diagnostic speed and accuracy, with ongoing trials and regulatory progress positioning it for broader rollout in 2026 across Australia and international markets.
9. **Relevance AI** (Sydney, AI workflow automation) Relevance AI enables no-code creation of AI agents for business processes. With strong growth in SaaS adoption, the platform is attracting users in marketing, sales, and operations, and is expected to announce enterprise expansions in 2026.
10. **Sapia.ai** (Melbourne, AI recruitment) Sapia uses conversational AI for bias-reduced hiring assessments. Its chat-based interviews have gained traction with large employers, and 2026 plans include deeper integration with HR systems and global scaling.
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These startups reflect Australia’s strengths in AI, deep tech, and sustainable innovation. Funding trends show optimism, with investors betting on vertical AI solutions and hardware-software combinations. Challenges remain, including talent shortages and global competition, but 2026 could see several of these companies achieve unicorn status or major exits.
Australia’s ecosystem benefits from supportive policies, including R&D tax incentives and grants like the Female Founders Co-Investment Fund. As the year unfolds, these rising players are set to drive economic growth and position the country as a global tech contender.
