Indian insurance sector experiences slow growth in April, with private insurers and LIC reporting mild de-growth. Private entities see 2% YoY growth, while public entities see low single-digit growth due to high base and volatile market. Companies facing profitability concerns and shifting focus to higher ticket size policies. HDFC Life, ICICI Prudential, SBI Life, and LIC all see slow growth.
A 46-year-old assistant teacher in Uttar Pradesh, BLO Sarvesh Singh, died by suicide due to work pressure from election-related duties. He left behind a note citing his inability to cope with the workload and lack of time. His wife blames the lack of training and support, and videos of him crying for his children have gone viral. This is the seventh BLO death in the state since the SIR.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Sunday that talks with Ukraine about ending the Russia-Ukraine war were productive, but “more work remains to be done,” Reuters reported.
Nagaland officials express anger as American evangelist Rev. Franklin Graham is denied Indian visa, preventing him from attending a major event in the state. He was slated to be a chief guest at a religious gathering and the Hornbill Festival. This decision has sparked controversy and raised questions about the government's intentions, bringing attention to religious tensions in India.
7Wakefit Innovations, a well-known home and furnishings brand, is going public with its IPO on December 8. The company aims to raise Rs 377 crore through a fresh issue of shares and an Offer for Sale. The IPO will be open from December 8 to 10, with allotment on December 11 and listing on December 15. The funds will be utilized for expansion.
The Rajasthan government faced criticism for its decision to observe December 6 as "Shaurya Diwas" to remember the demolition of Babri Masjid, but the order was revoked within 12 hours. The directive included activities promoting patriotism and nationalism, as well as exhibitions on the Ram Temple and Ram Janmabhoomi movements.
Today's market buzz is shaped by a new round of corporate announcements, including index reshuffles, quarterly earnings, penalties, fundraises, and project acquisitions. The Indian markets closed quietly on November 28, with the Nifty and Sensex slipping slightly. Key stocks to watch today include automakers, Lenskart, HDFC Bank, Tejas Networks, Groww, JK Tyre, and more.
India is reportedly preparing to open talks with Russia on buying new fighter jets and an upgraded missile defence system when President Vladimir Putin visits this week, according to Bloomberg.
VinFast, a Vietnamese EV maker, will release the Limo Green, a seven-seater MPV, in India in 2022, followed by a new EV every six months. The Limo Green will be their third car in India and will rival the Kia Carens Clavis EV and BYD eMax 7. VinFast's plan focuses on localisation and they have invested in an EV manufacturing facility in Tamil.
The 2025 MAMA Awards took place in Hong Kong's Kai Tak Stadium despite a recent tragedy, with adjustments made to the event. The hosts paid tribute to the victims and many stars cancelled appearances. Winners included G-Dragon, Stray Kids, BLACKPINK's Rose, and SEVENTEEN, while KPop Demon Hunters received the Inspiring Achievement award.
Blaupunkt's Xceed SBW600 Emperor is a top-performing soundbar that offers an immersive and dynamic soundstage for TV viewing. With 17 Neodymium speaker drivers, 12.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos, and an 8-inch wireless subwoofer, this soundbar produces crisp, clear, and powerful audio with deep bass and impressive surround sound.
The Noise Endeavour Pro and Fastrack MYND are two smartwatches with advanced features and great value. The Endeavour Pro is rugged and military-grade, with dual-band GPS and water resistance. The MYND has an AI-powered curved display and advanced health tracking. Both watches are user-friendly and perfect for fitness and outdoor activities.
India's Home Rent Rules 2025 are bringing significant changes for landlords, including capping security deposits at two months' rent, mandatory digital registration, and limits on rent hikes and inspections. Non-compliance can result in penalties and fraud risks. Landlords also benefit from expedited evictions and must ensure a written tenancy agreement is registered within 60 days.
Switzerland has rejected a proposed 50% tax on inherited fortunes of 50 million Swiss francs or more, despite its aim to fund climate change projects. The tax was expected to fail due to widespread opposition and concerns from the government and financial advisors about its potential negative impact on the country's ultra-wealthy and economy.
Indian airlines have completed software upgrades on all active Airbus A320 aircraft after Airbus warned of potential data corruption from solar radiation. IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express upgraded 323 operational aircraft, with only four remaining in maintenance. EASA's directive affected 338 Indian aircraft, but Akasa Air and SpiceJet were unaffected.
Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a suspect in the National Guard shooting, was radicalized in the US through connections in his home community and state. He entered the US under a resettlement program for Afghan evacuees in 2021 and served alongside US troops in Afghanistan. One victim has died and Lakanwal will be charged with first-degree murder.
FLAME University in Pune, India, led by Prof Dishan Kamdar, prioritizes internal institutional capability and has shifted focus to global expansion with FLAME 2.0. Their interdisciplinary approach to learning has improved employability through research and experiential learning.
SNU introduces BA (Research) in IHS, a first-of-its-kind degree in India, with a focus on responsible AI and multidisciplinary curriculum. The programme aims to prepare students to lead and adapt to change, in line with national priorities outlined in the NEP and India.
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a versatile car with a bold design and comfortable features. It offers a smooth ride with its elevated height and spacious seats. The 1.2-litre petrol variant is fast and enjoyable, while the 1.0-litre engine is ideal for long journeys. However, it is pricier than the Baleno and not a pure SUV. Overall, it is a great daily companion for any adventure.
The stock market will be affected by macroeconomic data, global trends, RBI's interest rate decision, and foreign investors' trading activity in the upcoming week. India's industrial production and automobile sales data for October and November will also play a role. The RBI's monetary policy meeting and global PMI readings will be closely monitored.
Nikhil Kamath's 'WTF is' podcast with Elon Musk has caused a buzz on social media. The duo covered topics like the H-1B visa program and Indian talent. Musk praised Indian talent but criticized misuse of the program. He also urged Indians to be positive contributors to society. The podcast is known for its uncensored conversations with tech and business leaders.
Ola Electric's stock decline has resulted in a major loss for founder Bhavish Aggarwal, with his public-market net worth dropping by over ₹5,000 crore in just a year. The company's valuation has plummeted, and it has been struggling with sales and market-share losses.
Last week, the combined market valuation of seven of the top-10 most valued firms saw a rise of Rs 96,200.95 crore, with Reliance Industries and Bajaj Finance leading the gains. The BSE benchmark also climbed, reaching a record high on Thursday. However, Bharti Airtel, TCS, and LIC faced a decline in their valuations, while Reliance Industries remained the top-ranked firm.
Indian markets reached new highs last week, with the Nifty hitting a record intraday peak of 26,310 and closing 0.52% higher at 26,202. The GDP growth data for Q2 exceeded expectations and boosted sentiment in large caps. The Nifty is in a resistance-free zone and could target 26,550-26,650, while the Bank Nifty is on a firmer footing.
The government is planning to introduce changes to the Companies Act to encourage small investors to participate in the equity market. These changes include legalising fractional shares and simplifying employee stock options. This move aims to make expensive stocks more accessible and align India's company-law framework with international standards.
In December, a powerful Arctic Blast is expected to hit the US, affecting 235 million people. This historic cold wave will cause plunging temperatures and widespread disruptions in the northern and eastern regions. A more intense freeze is predicted for mid-December, potentially reaching the US south and Gulf Coast with snow and cold weather.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally asked President Isaac Herzog for a pardon in his ongoing corruption cases. The request, consisting of two documents, will be reviewed by the Ministry of Justice and legal adviser. Netanyahu faces three main corruption cases, including allegations of receiving gifts for political favours.
Gas prices in the US have fallen below $3 per gallon, offering relief to drivers ahead of the holiday season. The decrease is due to lower crude oil prices, increased refinery production, and reduced fuel demand. All states have seen a decline, with some reaching prices as low as $1.99. This trend is expected to continue for the next four weeks.
Sebi to discuss reforms for equity brokerages, mutual funds, FPIs, and SLB at 212th board meeting. Reforms aim to modernize market, improve transparency and efficiency, and attract more FPIs. Sebi may restrict post-retirement assignments for senior officials and review conflict of interest report.
Trump warns airlines of closed Venezuelan airspace and considers stronger actions against Maduro's government. Six major airlines had their operating rights revoked after suspending flights due to safety concerns. Venezuela accuses them of joining US-promoted "state terrorism". Trump threatens land-based operations to stop drug traffickers and views Maduro's regime as illegitimate.
The government is proposing to raise central excise duty on tobacco and its products, including cigarettes and smoking mixtures. This will maintain the same tax rate after the scrapping of Goods and Services Tax Compensation Cess. A new 'Health & National Security' Cess will also be imposed on pan masala production to fund public health.
Domestic aluminium industry may delay its Rs 2 lakh crore capacity expansion plan due to declining exports and rising imports. India's exports of primary aluminium decreased from 2.4 MT in FY22 to 1.8 MT in FY25, while imports of scrap and other products doubled.
Economists are split on the upcoming MPC meeting, with 8 out of 15 predicting no rate cut and 7 expecting a 25 bps reduction. Two economists have changed their stance from a cut to a pause due to positive GDP data. The pause group cites strong GDP data, external pressures, and the need for policy flexibility.
RBI likely to reduce lending rate by 25 bps in upcoming meeting as inflation stays below target and economic growth improves due to fiscal consolidation and reforms. Second quarter GDP growth exceeds expectations at 8.2%, while CPI inflation remains below 2%. Experts divided on potential rate cut, some expect pause while others anticipate 25 bps reduction to boost growth.
Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Ltd, a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat, has received two show cause notices from the Sales Tax Office for a total amount of Rs 266.3 crore. The notices were issued for the assessment years 2019-20 and 2022-23, with a tax and penalty demand of Rs 128.39 crore and Rs 19.25 crore for 2019-20, and Rs 59.32 crore for
A speeding Mercedes crashed into three pedestrians near a mall in South Delhi, killing one and injuring the others. The driver, Shivam, has been detained and an investigation is underway. The victims, who were returning from work, were waiting at an auto stand when the accident occurred. The driver lost control due to a road diversion and hit a pole before striking the victims.
The Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has filed a new FIR in the National Herald Case against Congress MPs Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. The FIR was registered after a complaint from the ED headquarters. BJP minister Rajyavardhan Rathod accused the Gandhi family of fraud and demanded a proper investigation. Congress called the FIR "politically motivated".
Finland is restructuring its diplomatic network by closing embassies in Islamabad, Yangon, and Kabul by 2026. This is to strengthen its presence in important regions and reduce it in areas with limited engagement. The move aligns with Finland's security and trade objectives and aims to build a more competitive presence abroad. Closures are based on operational and strategic reasons.
Delhi residents are facing a dry week as liquor stores in 12 wards are shut until December 3 due to upcoming MCD by-elections. The closures are part of election norms and will be in effect on November 28, 30, and December 3. The affected wards include Mundka, Greater Kailash, Ashok Vihar, and Chandni Chowk. The bypolls were necessitated due to vacant seats, with 53 candidates vying for them.
The latest UK migration data shows a big drop in people coming to the UK. In the year ending June 2025, 204,000 fewer people stayed in the country compared to the peak in 2023, a fall of 80%.
Austrian beauty influencer Stefanie Pieper, 31, was found dead inside a suitcase in a remote forest in Slovenia, According to Austrian newspaper Kronen Zeitung. She had been missing for almost a week before her body was discovered on Friday.
New York City might be the place where dreams are made, but a new study says it’s also where stress levels hit the roof. The Big Apple has been named the most stressed city in the world, thanks to sky-high living costs, jam-packed roads and rising crime. And it’s not just the usual global hotspots feeling the pressure, the Indian city Kolkata has also landed in the top 10.
Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi, now ex-Puducherry Lt Governor, has urged PM Narendra Modi to take action on Delhi's worsening air quality. She emphasized the need for a hands-on approach from officials and called for better coordination and accountability among authorities. Delhi's air quality has been hazardous for over two weeks, with the current AQI at 260.
James Fishback, a former Doge architect and hedge fund founder, has quietly stepped into the 2026 Florida governor’s race. Known for his outspoken views on H-1B visas, Fishback is promising big changes for Florida workers.
The first ODI between India and South Africa will take place at the JSCA Stadium in Ranchi. India is aiming to recover from their Test series loss with the comeback of experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Young players may also get a chance to prove themselves. South Africa, with a strong team, will be a formidable opponent. The pitch is expected to be favorable for fast bowlers.
A green card interview is normally a straightforward step for couples. But several immigration attorneys say this step has now become risky in parts of the US. According to reports from the New York Times and CBS 8, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has begun detaining people inside USCIS offices during marriage-based green card interviews.
An Afghan national named Mohammad Dawood Alokozay was arrested in Texas this week after he allegedly posted a TikTok video saying he was making a bomb and planned to target a building in the Fort Worth area. This information was shared with Fox News by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
ICICI Prudential Value Fund, launched in 2004, is a top-performing equity scheme in India with a value investing strategy. It has delivered strong returns over the past 21 years, turning a single investment into nearly 48.5 times its original amount and a monthly SIP of Rs 5,000 into over Rs 1 crore. Despite its success, the fund is categorized.
India's home record in Test cricket is no longer invincible, as shown by recent series losses. The team must adapt to the changing landscape and focus on developing specialist players rather than relying on all-rounders. The upcoming months will be crucial for India to improve and qualify for the World Test Championship.
Nexa, Maruti Suzuki's premium car sales channel, has seen a 6.5% drop in sales from January-October 2025 compared to the same period last year, while the mass-market Arena channel saw a marginal increase. The decline is attributed to increased competition from carmakers like Mahindra, Hyundai, and Tata Motors in the midweight to premium segment.
The US's additional tariffs in October caused a decline in traditional exports, except for telecom instruments. The engineering sector saw a smaller decline due to early orders. Telecom's success is attributed to tariff exemptions and cost-effective sourcing from India. However, other sectors like readymade garments and marine products saw a decline.