At the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 in Davos, global advertising veteran Sir Martin Sorrell offered strong praise for India’s economic performance and political leadership, describing the country as a rare “pocket of growth” in an otherwise uncertain global environment.
Speaking on the sidelines of the annual summit, the S4Capital chairman said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is “on fire”, crediting his leadership for sustaining India’s growth momentum at a time when several major economies are struggling to expand. Sorrell pointed out that India is expected to grow at around 6 percent, significantly higher than the global average, which remains below 3 percent.
Comparing India with other major economies, Sorrell noted that growth in the United States is likely to remain in the range of 2.6 to 2.8 percent, while China is projected to grow at about 5 percent. Against this backdrop, India stands out as one of the fastest-growing large economies, strengthening its appeal to global investors and businesses looking for stability and scale.
Sorrell said India’s strong economic fundamentals, combined with its demographic advantage and expanding digital ecosystem, make it an attractive alternative within Asia. He described the country as a “beacon of growth” and a natural destination for companies seeking long-term opportunities amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty.
The S4Capital chief also highlighted the growing visibility of Indian corporate leaders at Davos, noting that executives from leading Indian groups are increasingly confident, outward-looking, and active on the global stage. According to him, this rising presence reflects India’s growing influence in global business and policy discussions.
On the diplomatic front, Sorrell praised Modi’s handling of international relationships, particularly with the United States, saying the prime minister has managed global expectations effectively while strengthening India’s brand abroad. Drawing from his background in branding and communications, Sorrell said India’s current global positioning is strong and largely positive.
Also Read: Sun Pharma linked to possible $10 bn Organon buyout