#Digital infrastructure

[lilithsaintcrow]

"By and large, the Internet seems more akin to a failed state, at best an undergoverned space where fragments of essential infrastructure are provided at the whim of local warlords."

[lighthousecommunicationsinc]

The Spectrum of Telecommunication: Understanding Different Forms

Telecommunication has evolved drastically, shaping the way businesses and individuals connect across the globe. At Lighthouse Communication, we recognize the importance of staying informed about the various forms of telecommunication that impact our daily lives. From traditional landlines to sophisticated wireless systems, the spectrum of telecommunication encompasses a wide range of technologies designed to transmit data efficiently over long distances.

In this blog, we will explore the four primary types of telecommunication networks—public switched telephone networks (PSTN), wireless communication networks, satellite communication networks, and the internet. Each plays a vital role in modern communication, whether through voice, video, or data transfer. These networks form the backbone of the infrastructure that supports businesses, hospitals, and everyday digital interactions.

Join us as we delve into how these forms of telecommunication impact various industries, with a particular focus on business systems, and learn how organizations like ours at Lighthouse Communication help maintain and install these essential systems. Understanding the spectrum of telecommunication can provide valuable insights into improving communication solutions for your business.

Read More:- https://thelighthouseorganization.com/blog

[dhallblogs]

India Leverages Digital Public Infrastructure to Change the Face of Governance.

The occasion: an intellectual confluence of industry leaders, technocrats, and bureaucrats to discuss the possibilities of transforming India by ushering in a Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI) Revolution across the three pillars of the economy – Samaaj (civil society), Sarkar (government), and Bazaar (business).

ALSO READ MORE- https://apacnewsnetwork.com/2023/08/india-leverages-digital-public-infrastructure-to-change-the-face-of-governance/

[poojalate]

How Leading Companies Are Leveraging Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

As businesses increasingly turn to digital solutions, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) has emerged as a vital component for modern enterprises. By utilizing cloud platforms, companies can enhance their agility, scalability, and cost-efficiency. This article explores infrastructure as a service examples and how leading companies are leveraging IaaS providers to drive innovation and growth.

What is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?

IaaS is a cloud computing service model that delivers virtualized computing resources over the internet. It enables businesses to rent infrastructure components like servers, storage, and networking, rather than investing in physical hardware. This flexibility allows companies to scale resources according to their needs and focus on core activities without the burden of managing IT infrastructure.

1. Netflix: Enhancing Scalability and Performance

Cloud Infrastructure Examples

Netflix, the global streaming giant, leverages IaaS to manage its vast content library and ensure seamless streaming experiences for millions of users worldwide. By using IaaS providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Netflix can quickly scale its infrastructure to handle peak loads, such as new releases or seasonal spikes in viewership. This scalability ensures high performance and availability, crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction.

2. Airbnb: Optimizing Resource Management

IaaS Use Cases

Airbnb, the popular online marketplace for lodging, utilizes IaaS to manage its global operations. The company employs cloud services examples like dynamic scaling to match infrastructure resources with fluctuating demand. During peak travel seasons or significant events, Airbnb can scale up its infrastructure to accommodate increased traffic, ensuring reliable service and user experience.

3. Slack: Ensuring Data Security and Compliance

Cloud Platforms

Slack, a leading collaboration platform, relies on IaaS for data security and regulatory compliance. By partnering with IaaS providers like Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Slack benefits from advanced security features, including encryption and compliance with industry standards such as GDPR and HIPAA. This ensures that sensitive business communications remain secure and compliant with regulations.

4. Pinterest: Enhancing Development and Innovation

IaaS Providers

Pinterest, a visual discovery and bookmarking platform, leverages IaaS to accelerate development cycles and foster innovation. Using cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, Pinterest provides its developers with the tools and resources needed to build, test, and deploy new features rapidly. This agile development environment supports continuous improvement and innovation.

5. Spotify: Delivering Seamless Music Streaming

Cloud Infrastructure Examples

Spotify, the music streaming service, utilizes IaaS to manage its extensive music catalog and deliver high-quality streaming experiences. By using cloud platforms like Google Cloud, Spotify ensures that users can access their favorite music anytime, anywhere. The scalable infrastructure allows Spotify to handle millions of concurrent users without compromising performance.

6. Coca-Cola: Supporting Global Operations

IaaS Use Cases

Coca-Cola, a global beverage leader, uses IaaS to support its worldwide operations. By partnering with IaaS providers like IBM Cloud, Coca-Cola manages its supply chain, customer data, and digital marketing initiatives across different regions. This integrated approach enables Coca-Cola to maintain consistency and efficiency in its global operations.

7. Twitter: Managing Real-Time Data

Cloud Services Examples

Twitter, the social media platform, leverages IaaS to manage and process vast amounts of real-time data. Using cloud platforms like AWS, Twitter can handle high volumes of tweets, mentions, and user interactions with minimal latency. This capability is crucial for delivering real-time updates and maintaining user engagement.

8. General Electric: Facilitating Industrial IoT

IaaS Providers

General Electric (GE) uses IaaS to power its Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) initiatives. By utilizing cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure, GE connects industrial equipment and collects data to optimize performance and predict maintenance needs. This data-driven approach enhances operational efficiency and reduces downtime.

9. eBay: Ensuring High Availability

Cloud Infrastructure Examples

eBay, the e-commerce giant, employs IaaS to ensure high availability and reliability for its global marketplace. By using IaaS providers like AWS, eBay can quickly scale its infrastructure to handle large volumes of transactions and user interactions. This reliability is essential for maintaining trust and satisfaction among buyers and sellers.

10. Zoom: Supporting Remote Communication

IaaS Use Cases

Zoom, the video conferencing service, relies on IaaS to support its global user base. By leveraging cloud platforms like Oracle Cloud, Zoom ensures high-quality video and audio communication, even during peak usage times. This scalability and reliability are critical for supporting remote work and virtual events.

Conclusion

Leading companies across various industries are leveraging Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) to enhance scalability, performance, security, and innovation. By partnering with top IaaS providers and utilizing cloud infrastructure services, these businesses can stay agile, competitive, and responsive to market demands. Whether it's optimizing resource management, ensuring data security, or supporting global operations, IaaS provides the flexibility and power needed to drive business success in the digital age.

[foxnangelseo]

The Resilience Factor: Why India is a Safe Bet for Long-Term Investments

In the ever-changing landscape of global markets, investors are constantly seeking opportunities that offer stability, growth, and resilience. In recent years, India has emerged as a safe bet for long-term investments, attracting attention from both domestic and international investors alike. With its robust economy, diverse market opportunities, and favorable demographic trends, India offers a compelling investment proposition for those looking to capitalize on its growth potential. In this blog post, we'll delve into the resilience factor of India's economy and explore why it is a safe bet for long-term investments.

Understanding Investment Opportunities in India:

1. Dynamic Economic Growth: India boasts one of the fastest-growing major economies globally, driven by robust domestic consumption, infrastructure development, and government-led initiatives to promote investment and entrepreneurship. Despite global economic headwinds, India's GDP continues to expand, offering ample investment opportunities across various sectors.

2. Demographic Dividend: With a young and growing population, India possesses a demographic dividend that fuels consumption, innovation, and productivity. The rising middle class and increasing urbanization present vast market opportunities for investors in sectors such as retail, consumer goods, healthcare, and education.

3. Diverse Market Opportunities: India's economy is diverse and offers investment opportunities across a wide range of sectors, including:

- Information Technology (IT) and Software Services

- E-commerce and Digital Payments

- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

- Renewable Energy and Clean Technology

- Infrastructure and Real Estate

- Manufacturing and Automotive

- Agriculture and Agribusiness

4. Favorable Regulatory Environment: The Indian government has implemented several reforms to liberalize its economy and improve the ease of doing business for investors. Initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India, and Digital India aim to attract investment, foster innovation, and create a conducive environment for entrepreneurship.

The Resilience Factor of India's Economy:

1. Adaptability to Global Challenges: India has demonstrated resilience in the face of global challenges, including economic downturns, geopolitical tensions, and health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The country's ability to adapt, innovate, and implement policy reforms has helped maintain economic stability and investor confidence.

2. Diversified Economic Base: India's economy is characterized by its diversified economic base, with contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, services, and technology sectors. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with sector-specific downturns and enhances the overall resilience of the economy.

3. Strong Domestic Consumption: India's large and growing consumer base provides a stable source of demand for goods and services, driving economic growth even during periods of global uncertainty. Rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and lifestyle changes contribute to sustained domestic consumption levels, supporting businesses and investors alike.

4. Investment in Infrastructure: The Indian government's focus on infrastructure development, including transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure, enhances the country's resilience by improving connectivity, efficiency, and productivity. Infrastructure investments create multiplier effects, stimulating economic growth and attracting further investment across sectors.

5. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: India's vibrant startup ecosystem and culture of innovation contribute to its resilience by fostering entrepreneurship, creativity, and adaptability. Startups and technology companies drive disruptive innovations, create jobs, and contribute to economic dynamism, making India an attractive destination for investment in emerging technologies and digital solutions.

Investment opportunities in India: Why India is a safe bet:

1. Stable Economic Fundamentals: India's stable economic fundamentals, including strong GDP growth, low inflation, and prudent fiscal policies, provide a solid foundation for long-term investments. Investors can rely on India's resilience and economic stability to weather short-term fluctuations and capitalize on long-term growth opportunities.

2. Strategic Geographic Location: India's strategic geographic location at the crossroads of South Asia and the Indian Ocean region makes it a gateway to dynamic markets in Asia and beyond. Investors can leverage India's connectivity and trade links to access diverse markets, supply chains, and investment opportunities across the region.

3. Government Commitment to Reforms: The Indian government's commitment to economic reforms, regulatory transparency, and ease of doing business creates an enabling environment for investors. Continued reforms in areas such as taxation, labor laws, and land acquisition enhance investor confidence and attract capital inflows into the country.

4. Rising Middle Class and Consumer Spending: The burgeoning middle class and rising consumer spending in India present immense opportunities for businesses across sectors such as retail, consumer goods, healthcare, and leisure. Investors can tap into this growing consumer market to generate sustainable returns and long-term value.

5. Long-Term Growth Potential: India's long-term growth potential remains compelling, driven by demographic trends, urbanization, technological advancements, and structural reforms. Investors with a long-term investment horizon can benefit from India's transformative growth story and capitalize on emerging opportunities in key sectors.

In conclusion, India's resilience, diverse market opportunities, and favorable investment climate make it a safe bet for long-term investors seeking attractive returns and portfolio diversification. With its stable economic fundamentals, strategic geographic location, and commitment to reforms, India offers a conducive environment for businesses and investors to thrive.

The country's ability to adapt to global challenges, its diversified economic base, and strong domestic consumption contribute to its resilience, making it an attractive destination for investors even in times of uncertainty. Additionally, the Indian government's focus on infrastructure development, innovation, and entrepreneurship further strengthens the country's economic resilience and growth prospects.

Investors with a long-term investment horizon can benefit from India's transformative growth story and capitalize on emerging opportunities in key sectors such as information technology, e-commerce, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing.

Moreover, India's rising middle class, increasing urbanization, and demographic dividend provide a stable source of demand for goods and services, creating sustainable growth opportunities for businesses and investors alike.

As India continues on its path of economic development and reform, it remains a compelling destination for long-term investments and a beacon of opportunity in the global investment landscape. By understanding the resilience factor of India's economy and tapping into its growth potential, investors can position themselves for success and contribute to India's journey towards becoming a global economic powerhouse.

In summary, India's growth story is one of resilience, dynamism, and promise, offering investors a wealth of opportunities to participate in its economic transformation and prosperity. With the right strategy, vision, and commitment, investing in India can yield significant returns and contribute to long-term wealth creation and value generation for investors around the world.

This post was originally published on: Foxnangel

[techninja]

Safeguarding Connectivity: Addressing Vulnerabilities in 5G Infrastructure

In the realm of technological evolution, 5G has emerged as the pinnacle of innovation, promising unprecedented connectivity, lightning-fast speeds, and transformative capabilities. However, amidst the euphoria surrounding this groundbreaking technology, concerns about security loom large. As the 5G landscape continues to evolve, ensuring robust security measures is imperative to mitigate potential risks and safeguard sensitive data.

Understanding the Significance of 5G Security

Defining the Paradigm Shift

5G represents a paradigm shift in wireless communication, revolutionizing industries, and empowering IoT ecosystems. With its enhanced speed, capacity, and low latency, 5G is poised to unleash a wave of innovation across various sectors, ranging from healthcare and transportation to manufacturing and entertainment. However, the proliferation of 5G also introduces novel security challenges that demand proactive solutions.

Addressing Vulnerabilities

The unprecedented speed and connectivity offered by 5G networks amplify the attack surface, rendering traditional security measures inadequate. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in 5G infrastructure to launch sophisticated cyberattacks, compromising network integrity and data confidentiality. From DDoS attacks to man-in-the-middle assaults, the threat landscape has evolved, necessitating robust security protocols to safeguard against potential breaches.

The Evolution of 5G Security Measures

Encryption and Authentication

Encryption lies at the heart of 5G security, ensuring that data remains confidential and integrity is maintained during transmission. Advanced cryptography algorithms such as AES and Elliptic Curve Cryptography are employed to encrypt data packets, thwarting eavesdropping attempts by malicious actors. Additionally, stringent authentication mechanisms, including digital certificates and biometric authentication, bolster access control and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access.

Network Slicing and Virtualization

Network slicing emerges as a game-changer in 5G security, enabling service providers to partition network resources into distinct virtual networks tailored to specific use cases. By implementing isolated slices with dedicated security policies, organizations can ensure segmentation and isolation of critical services, minimizing the blast radius in the event of a security breach. Furthermore, network function virtualization (NFV) enhances agility and resilience, allowing rapid deployment of security functions to counter emerging threats.

AI-Powered Threat Detection

In the era of 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerges as a potent ally in the cybersecurity arsenal, leveraging machine learning algorithms to detect and mitigate threats in real-time. By analyzing vast datasets and identifying anomalies in network traffic, AI-driven security solutions can preemptively thwart cyberattacks before they escalate, thereby fortifying 5G infrastructure against evolving threats.

Collaboration and Regulatory Compliance

Industry Collaboration

The complexity and interconnectedness of 5G ecosystems necessitate collaboration among stakeholders to establish industry-wide standards and best practices. From telecommunication providers and equipment manufacturers to government agencies and regulatory bodies, concerted efforts are required to foster a secure and resilient 5G ecosystem. Information sharing and collaborative research play a pivotal role in strengthening cyber defenses and mitigating emerging threats.

Regulatory Frameworks

Regulatory frameworks serve as a cornerstone of 5G security, providing guidelines and compliance mandates to ensure adherence to security standards and privacy regulations. Regulatory bodies such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) play a pivotal role in shaping the security landscape by issuing recommendations and certifications to validate compliance with security protocols.

Conclusion

As 5G continues its inexorable march towards global proliferation, security remains paramount in unlocking its transformative potential. By embracing encryption, network slicing, AI-driven threat detection, and fostering collaboration across industry stakeholders, organizations can fortify 5G infrastructure against emerging threats and embark on a journey towards a secure and resilient digital future.

[anumatiaa]

Your Data, Your Rights: A Guide to India's Data Protection Law | anumati Understand your rights and what businesses need to do under India's new Data Protection Law. Learn about data ownership, consent, storage, and how to take control of your personal data with anumati.

https://www.anumati.co.in/we-have-a-data-protection-law-now-what/

[techdriveplay]

The Impact of Autonomous Automobiles on the Future of Driving 

Explore the profound impact of autonomous automobiles on driving's future, from safety enhancements to urban mobility transformation.

The advent of autonomous automobiles is poised to revolutionize the way we perceive and engage with personal and public transportation. This technological leap forward promises to reshape the urban landscape, redefine our commuting habits, and even transform the underlying economics of transportation. In this article, we explore the multifaceted impact of autonomous automobiles on the future of…

[otiskeene]

DYOPATH Earns 2023 Great Place To Work Certification

Specializing in digital infrastructure and IT support, DYOPATH has reached a significant milestone by earning its third consecutive Great Place To Work® certification. The favorable feedback from their employees attests to the great workplace climate they have fostered, which is demonstrated by this esteemed certification.

In the business world, the Great Place To Work® certification is highly sought after, and DYOPATH has been able to obtain it because to their continuous commitment to offering an exceptional employee experience. This award is special because it is totally dependent on real-time input from current workers, which captures the genuine spirit of the business and the contentment of its workforce. Impressively, 78% of DYOPATH employees said in the most recent certification that it is a great place to work, outperforming the average U.S. employer by 21 points.

An internationally renowned authority on workplace culture, employee experience, and leadership behaviors that produce extraordinary outcomes like higher revenue and employee retention is Great Place To Work®. Employee input is thoroughly analyzed as part of their stringent evaluation process, which makes DYOPATH's accomplishment all the more remarkable.

Great Place To Work's Vice President of Global Recognition, Sarah Lewis-Kulin, emphasizes the importance of this designation and the company's dedication to delivering a first-rate employee experience. She underlines that DYOPATH has distinguished itself as one of the best places to work, demonstrating an environment at work that genuinely values its workers.

Read More - https://bit.ly/3QmG7lU

[munaeem]

Is it true Germany has not invested in digital infrastructure. It is said German economy is the least digitized in Europe?

Germany, known for its industrial prowess, finds itself under scrutiny for its digital infrastructure. It has been widely claimed that Germany lags behind its European counterparts when it comes to digitalization. But is this perception accurate? While it is true that Germany has faced criticism for its lack of investment in digital infrastructure, it is important to consider the bigger picture.…

[apacnewsnetwork0]

India Leverages Digital Public Infrastructure to Change the Face of Governance

The recent endorsement by the G20 Ministers plus the discourse from EkStep Foundation were further feathers in India’s DPI cap 

Rajneesh De, Consulting Editor, APAC News Network

“A single step of a man, a giant leap for mankind.” These were the immortal words of Neil Armstrong after landing on moon (perhaps even more relevant today after the euphoria of Chandrayan 3).

Decades later, another Indian luminary Nandan Nilekani seems to have almost paraphrased these immortal lines. “EkStep for India, a thousand steps for its billions.”

The occasion: 

an intellectual confluence of industry leaders, technocrats, and bureaucrats to discuss the possibilities of transforming India by ushering in a Digital Public Infrastructure(DPI) Revolution across the three pillars of the economy – Samaaj (civil society), Sarkar (government), and Bazaar (business).

The proponents: 

EkStep Foundation started by Nandan, Rohini Nilekani and Shankar Maruwada in 2015.

As per a recent IMF paper, between 2013 and March 2021, the Indian government saved up to 1.1% of GDP expenditure thanks to the advanced DPI. 

The Indian ecosystem has also witnessed a tremendous increase in the use of Digital Infrastructure, with a 200% increase in rural internet subscriptions against 158% in urban India between 2015 and 2021, as per the data from Press Information Bureau (PIB).

The focus areas included PeoplePlus Lifelong Learning, PeoplePlus AI for Societal Change, and PeoplePlus Open Networks. The Lifelong Learning focused on harnessing the power of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs) to enrich the learning experiences in FLN, vocational, and skilling sectors. 

The PeoplePlus AI for Societal Change deliberated on how AI can bring about societal changes by providing language as a bridge, turbocharging human capability, amplifying visibility and decision-making, and creating new possibilities and professions. 

The PeoplePlus Networks highlighted the importance of open networks for open opportunities in education & skilling to enable discoverability, accessibility, and inclusivity.

“Digital Public Infrastructure is a significant step forward for Bharat’s commitment to self-sustainability and technology leadership,” emphasized Nandan Nilekani.

India, through India Stack was the first country to develop all three foundational DPIs: digital identity (Aadhar), real-time fast payment (UPI) and a platform to safely share personal data without compromising privacy (Account Aggregator built on the Data Empowerment Protection Architecture or DEPA). Each DPI layer fills a clear need and generates considerable value across sectors.

Incidentally DPI has been collectively adopted by the G20 countries as a set of shared digital systems. This set obviously comes with a number of riders including security,  interoperablity,  on open standards and accessible for all, with governance and community as core components.

The G20 Digital Economy Ministers even arrived at a consensus to shape digital public infrastructure (DPI) of the future, as an accelerator of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) with the World Bank collaborated with the Government of India as its knowledge partner on DPI in the Digital Economy Working Group.  

Event the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, reiterated the “unshakable belief of India in innovation, speedy implementation of DPI, modulated by spirit of inclusion – leaving no one behind.” 

The G20 India Presidency also proposed the One Future Alliance’ (OFA) with support from UNDP and its knowledge partners. This alliance envisages a confluence of governments, tprivate sector, academic and research institutions, donor agencies, civil society organizations and other relevant stakeholders in the DPI ecosystem.

While theoretical discourses are fine, it is perhaps time to analyze the benefits of the digital public infrastructure for India. Creating a more equitable digital economy, reducing the wealth gap, empowering digital inclusion and enhancing service delivery obviously stand out. Add to these the reducing transaction costs, improving agricultural practices, improved decision making in governance, quick and effective disaster management and emergency response.

Notwithstanding the optimism, there are still bottlenecks around in more extensive DPI adoption.  The lack of access to infrastructure, digital divide and affordability are the top three challenges. Language and content barriers, physical and cognitive disabilities, privacy and security concerns as well as geographical disparities too pose as impediments.

A stronger policy and regulatory support, proper and timely investment in digital infrastructure, targeted use cases and services should be some of the action plans to mitigate these challenges.  Add to it more sensitivity towards localized content and language diversity.

Box: The G20 DPI Framework comprises three elements:

Technology in the form of interoperable and reusable digital systems and applications (e.g., software codes, protocols, standards) that can be used across different use cases and sectors;

Governance standards that codify human rights and protection of personal data, privacy, and intellectual property, as well as accessible and transparent grievance redressal mechanisms. Governance can also extend to cover institutions and funding;

A community of private sector and civil society actors who collaborate.

Box: Examples of digital infrastructure include:

Internet backbone, broadband.

Mobile telecom and digital communication suites, including applications.

Data centers and networks.

Enterprise portals, platforms, systems, and software.

Cloud services and software.

Operational security, user identity and data encryption.

Also Read More - https://apacnewsnetwork.com/2023/08/india-leverages-digital-public-infrastructure-to-change-the-face-of-governance/

[marciodpaulla-blog]

A Greener Byte: The Dawn of Superconducting Computing

Once upon a time, in our not-so-distant future, our world became increasingly connected, increasingly digital. The machines we’ve built to store our data, solve complex equations, and connect us to each other are like the city that never sleeps—data centers, supercomputers, always humming, always working. Yet, every city has its cost. And for our digital city, the price is high, paid in the…

[thelegendsstories]

Sridhar Pinnapureddy is an Indian entrepreneur and the founder of CtrlS Datacenters, a leading data center services provider in India. His success story is an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs.

Sridhar Pinnapureddy was born in a small village in Andhra Pradesh, India. He graduated with a degree in computer science engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad. After graduation, he worked for several IT companies, including Microsoft, before starting his own venture.

In 2007, Sridhar founded CtrlS Datacenters with the aim of providing world-class data center services to Indian companies. He invested his own savings into the venture and started with a single data center in Hyderabad. Sridhar's vision was to create a data center that could provide 99.995% uptime, a level of service that was not available in India at that time.

Under Sridhar's leadership, CtrlS Datacenters grew rapidly, expanding to other cities in India, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi. Today, CtrlS is one of the leading data center services providers in India, with a customer base that includes some of the largest companies in the country.

Sridhar's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation have earned him numerous awards, including the Entrepreneur of the Year award at the Indian Affairs India Leadership Conclave in 2016.

Sridhar's success story is a true testament to the power of hard work and perseverance. His vision and dedication to providing world-class data center services in India have transformed the industry and made a significant impact on the country's economy.