BMW India had a successful first quarter, with a 17% increase in sales due to the popularity of electric vehicles, which make up 26% of their sales. Government incentives and lower taxes have played a role in this growth. SUVs remain the top-selling category, with a quarter of cars priced over Rs 1 crore.
Government caps gold imports under export scheme to prevent misuse and curb forex outflow. Physical inspection of manufacturing facilities will be mandatory for first-time applicants, and regular performance reports and consolidated reports will be submitted for oversight and compliance. Recent duty hikes on gold, silver, and platinum aim to reduce imports and conserve foreign exchange.
The Indian government's fiscal deficit for FY27 is likely to go beyond the projected target due to measures taken to support citizens, farmers, and businesses during the West Asia conflict. However, the government's strong fiscal position makes the slippage manageable. The deficit, initially estimated at 4.3% of GDP, may need to be adjusted due to increased subsidies and revenue loss.
Insurance commission growth highlights high-cost nature of industry, still reliant on expensive distribution. Chairman of Irdai notes concerns about front-loaded acquisition costs, weak profitability, and reliance on cross-border reinsurance. Life insurance dominates market, but rising surrenders and complaints pose risks.
The Indian government has banned sugar exports until the end of September to maintain stable domestic prices and address concerns about lower sugar inventory levels and production in the upcoming 2026-27 season. The move was welcomed by industry experts and associations, but there are concerns about fulfilling existing export contracts.
Heatwaves in India are causing a double whammy for farmers, with scorching temperatures and lower crop yields. Plants are also experiencing heat stress, leading to reduced grain formation and lower quality. These heatwaves are on the rise due to global warming and human activities, with high humidity making it feel even hotter.
TOPS, launched in 2014 and revamped in 2018, has aided India in winning 225+ medals in Commonwealth Games, Olympics, and Asian Games. It identifies and supports elite medal prospects by providing financial and logistical assistance for training in world-class facilities abroad. The scheme has played a crucial role in the success of India's athletes at major events.
India's wholesale price inflation hit a 42-month peak of 8.3% in April, driven by costly crude oil and natural gas, food and fuel, and a weak base. This could result in higher retail prices down the line. The Consumer Price Index also saw a slight rise to 3.48% in April, with predictions of a continued uptick.
Two LPG tankers for Indian Oil Corporation safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz, but an Indian-flagged cargo vessel sank after a suspected attack. This highlights the risks to commercial shipping and energy flows in the conflict-hit corridor. Despite this, 13 India-linked vessels have crossed since March.
IndiGo, India's largest airline, has decreased domestic capacity in major metro airports and increased international operations, with a focus on Gulf and West Asian destinations. This is a common trend among airlines during the low domestic travel season, but IndiGo's reductions this year are more significant than usual. Overall, the airline's domestic network is expected to be impacted.
The Income Tax Department has introduced a new strategy to manage tax appeals more efficiently in 2026-27. This includes prioritizing high-value disputes and resolving the backlog of legacy cases. The department has already disposed of a significant number of appeals and plans to further reduce pending cases by setting targets and increasing accountability.
Global fuel markets are experiencing a demand crisis due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in a decline in refinery runs and fuel demand. S&P Global Energy forecasts a significant decrease in the second quarter and warns that the market is at a critical point, requiring a decrease in demand to balance supply.
In 2026, FIFA is breaking tradition by hosting a global concert event during the World Cup final. The show, curated by Coldplay's Chris Martin and featuring Shakira, Madonna, and BTS, aims to attract non-sports fans and maximize ad rates. The event is also raising funds for education and football globally. This move solidifies the World Cup as the biggest sporting event in the world.
The Strait of Hormuz is facing a major shipping bottleneck, with 360 vessels stranded and only 40 able to be evacuated per day. This could have a significant impact on global oil, gas, and commodity trade, as the strait is a crucial energy transit route. Despite evacuation efforts, clearing the backlog may take weeks due to logistical challenges.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has proposed major changes in regulations for exchange-traded derivatives to simplify requirements, reduce compliance burden, and promote ease of business. The proposals include removing close-to-money option series and reducing mandatory meetings for non-agricultural commodities.
Top American business leaders, including CEOs from Tesla, Apple, and Boeing, join President Trump on a state visit to China. They meet with President Xi Jinping to discuss US-China trade and technology battle. The visit highlights the intertwined economies and the potential for strategic gains and investment commitments. Discussions also focus on a possible tariff truce and rare earth supplies.
India's aquaculture exports to the EU have been approved to continue, after complying with regulations to ensure antibiotic-free products. This is a significant development as the EU is a major market for Indian seafood exports, with recent growth. India is now included in the list of third countries authorized to export animal and animal products to the 27-member bloc.
The uncertainty surrounding Hardik Pandya's future with Mumbai Indians has sparked speculation and confusion among fans. This is reminiscent of when he returned to MI after a successful stint with Gujarat Titans. A recent social media incident, where he unfollowed MI on Instagram, has further fueled the speculation. His trade to MI in 2023 caused a leadership crisis.
The Tamil Nadu government has taken stricter measures to control alcohol availability and underage drinking. This includes shutting down 717 liquor outlets near religious places, schools, and bus stands. The legal drinking age remains 21 and stricter verification methods will be implemented. Discussions are ongoing to change operating hours to 8 pm.
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins shuts down journalist's report about players considering leaving Big Bash League for higher pay in rival leagues. Cummins clarifies there is no movement among senior players to abandon home summer and no $800,000 offer to skip upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. He prioritizes international schedule over lucrative T20 leagues.
The Election Commission of India has launched Phase 3 of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, covering 16 states and three Union Territories. Over 36 crore voters will undergo a door-to-door verification process, with the involvement of political parties and election officials. The EC has emphasized transparency and urged parties to appoint Booth Level Agents.
Delhi's new elevated corridor between Ashram Chowk and Sarai Khwaja will significantly reduce travel time from an hour to just 10-15 minutes, improving daily commuting and easing traffic at the Badarpur Border. The project aims to enhance connectivity within Delhi-NCR, resulting in less stress, faster travel, and improved traffic flow in the region.
VD Satheesan, a six-time MLA and senior leader of the Indian National Congress, has been chosen as the next chief minister of Kerala. His selection was a result of discussions with the party's central leadership and alliance partners, highlighting his strong connect with his constituency and aggressive political style as key factors.
Cipla's share price rose 7.9% despite a weak quarterly performance, with most brokerage houses giving a positive recommendation. JM Financial upgraded the stock to 'Buy' with a target price of Rs 1,546, while Nomura maintained its 'Buy' rating with a target price of Rs 1,510. Motilal Oswal retained its 'Neutral' call with a target price of Rs 1,380.
Odisha to get new express train between Puri and Koraput, improving rail connectivity across important districts. Tri-weekly service expected to benefit tourists, pilgrims, students, and daily passengers. Train will pass through major stations like Puri, Bhubaneswar, Sambalpur, and Koraput, reducing the need for multiple train changes.
The Tamil Nadu government has imposed a 21-year-old age limit for buying and consuming alcohol to curb underage drinking. Liquor vendors must check IDs for suspicious cases. 717 TASMAC outlets will close, including 276 near temples, 186 near schools, and 255 near bus stations.
The US Department of Homeland Security has issued a fresh warning about strict penalties for people entering the country without permission or ignoring deportation orders. The message comes as the Trump administration continues to tighten border enforcement and push a tougher immigration approach.
Indian Railways to build new railway line from Balaramapuram to Vizhinjam International Seaport in South Kerala, aiming to enhance goods transportation and ease traffic congestion. Bids invited, project to be completed in 36 months. This development will promote trade and boost the economy of the region.
Indian sugar sector stocks plummeted as the government banned exports until September 30. Dwarikesh Sugar Industries and other major companies saw significant drops, while Bannari Amman Sugars bucked the trend and traded higher. The ban was implemented to address domestic supply concerns and shift from "restricted" to "prohibited" exports.
The Tripura government has implemented a 50% work-from-home policy for employees to decrease fuel consumption and government spending. The policy encourages employees to live near their workplace and be available for urgent tasks. It will remain in effect until further notice and has been extended to various organizations.
The Indian government's 15% import duty on gold has sparked concerns about demand, pricing, and profitability in the jewellery sector. However, Nomura remains optimistic about Titan Company, predicting a 21% increase in stock value. While the hike may lead to inventory gains, it may not result in direct profits for jewellery companies. The impact will vary among different segments.
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu explains why Udhayanidhi Stalin's attacks on "sanathanam" have not caused outrage among Tamil Nadu's Hindus. He attributes this to a linguistic nuance where "sanathanam" is unfamiliar to locals, unlike more common terms tied to Hinduism.
As fears grow over rising oil prices and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has tried to reassure India that Moscow will continue protecting New Delhi’s energy interests no matter how intense Western pressure becomes.
IndiGo issues travel advisory due to adverse weather conditions at Delhi airport, with thunderstorms and gusty winds predicted by India Meteorological Department on May 13 and 14. Light rain and thunderstorms expected on May 14, with temperatures at 38-40 degrees Celsius. IndiGo assures minimal disruptions and urges passengers to stay updated.
Donald Trump’s pick to lead the US Federal Reserve, Kevin Warsh, has officially been confirmed by the US Senate after a closely fought vote that reflected the deep political divide in Washington.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a three-day official visit, marking Tehran’s first major diplomatic outreach to India since the US-Israel war with Iran broke out more than two months ago.
India, the second-largest gold importer, raised import duty on gold from 6% to 15% to reduce domestic demand and control rising import costs. The Reserve Bank of India holds 880.52 tonnes of gold, while Indian households possess 30,000 tonnes worth $5 trillion. The government has frequently revised the import duty, with the latest increase in 2022.
Lord’s Mark Industries has introduced India's first AI-powered renal care system, centered on the Renalyx Machine. The CE-certified machine is made in India and serves as the platform's hardware base. It employs AI-based clinical intelligence, operational management, and remote patient monitoring to enhance treatment uniformity and reduce human mistakes.
The Indian government plans to increase exports by 15.8% to reach $1 trillion this year. Minister Piyush Goyal believes this is achievable through FTAs, state support, and business initiatives. Labor codes have been implemented and digitization is a priority. India has signed 9 FTAs and is in talks for more. Tamil Nadu ranks highest in logistics performance according to the LEADS report.
Cabinet approves 0.4%-8% increase in MSP for 14 major kharif crops, with paddy seeing a modest 3% hike for the second consecutive year. Surplus of rice stocks signals farmers to diversify into more remunerative crops like pulses and oilseeds. Concerns over heatwaves and below-normal monsoon may impact kharif crop, while regulated increase in paddy MSP to Rs 2441/quintal could affect farmers.
Arsenal and Manchester City are in a tight race for the Premier League title, with Arsenal holding a 5-point lead but City having a game in hand. The upcoming fixtures, including a must-win for Arsenal against Burnley and Crystal Palace, will determine the winner in the next 11 days. City faces a tougher path with games against Bournemouth and Aston Villa. A tie-breaker scenario is possible.
India is experiencing a significant shift in its digital landscape due to the combination of cloud usage, AI, digital payments, and a connected population. This has prompted a reevaluation of infrastructure with a focus on scalability, edge computing, and sustainability.
The entry of AI firms like OpenAI and Anthropic into the enterprise services market poses a threat to traditional Indian IT giants like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro. These companies, which relied on outsourcing, are now facing competition from AI companies offering business outcomes directly to enterprises.
The trucking and logistics sector in India is worried about the impact of rising crude oil prices and potential diesel price hikes. A report suggests that even a small increase in diesel prices could greatly affect transporter margins and cash flows. State-run oil companies are facing losses and a diesel price hike could cause inflation in other sectors.
The Union Cabinet has approved a ₹37,500-crore incentive scheme for coal gasification projects to reduce India's import dependence on LNG, ammonia, methanol, and other industrial feedstocks. The scheme aims to support gasification of 75 million tonnes of coal, catalyze investments of ₹2.5-3 lakh crore, and strengthen long-term energy self-reliance.
Kia India introduces BaaS financing for the MY26 Kia Carens Clavis EV, the first EV in India to offer this. The programme allows separate financing for the vehicle body and battery, reducing upfront costs. Two battery pack options and cosmetic updates are available. Multiple lenders partner to offer flexible vehicle financing of up to 60 months.
Amul, a leading Indian dairy brand, has announced a price increase of Rs 2 per litre for several of its milk products, effective May 14. This will impact popular variants such as Amul Gold, Taaza, Cow Milk, and more. The hike is expected to affect daily household expenses amidst rising food and living costs. More updates to follow.
Chanchalguda Central Prison introduces "Feel the Jail" program to educate citizens about India's correctional system. Participants will experience prison life for 12 or 24 hours, including staying in recreated cells, eating inmate meals, and following routines. The initiative also features a prison museum and raise funds for inmate welfare, inspired by a similar program in Sangareddy.
Motilal Oswal Financial Services has given a ‘Neutral’ rating to ONGC with a target price of Rs 275, citing stagnant production, sales growth, and a decline in profits. The company may see a one-time boost from royalty reforms, but projected declines in EPS and total income indicate a tough road ahead.
PM Modi's push for frugal measures due to increasing oil prices and tensions in West Asia has raised the question of whether companies can refuse work-from-home despite calls for reduced travel. Though India lacks a law for remote work, the new labour codes acknowledge hybrid employment. Yet, the final decision rests with the employer, with only a few exceptions for disabled employees.
TVS Motor, one of India's leading auto majors, reported a 17.5% rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 819.55 crore in Q4FY26. The company's revenue from operations also saw a significant increase, reaching Rs 15,052.73 crore. Two-wheeler sales saw a jump of 28%, with scooters outselling motorcycles. Electric vehicle sales also grew by 51% and three-wheeler sales by 65%.