India has moved up eight places in the Henley Passport Index 2025, ranking at 77th this year. The number of countries Indian passport holders can visit without a prior visa has increased from 57 to 59. Asian countries dominate the top spots, with Singapore at #1. The index ranks countries based on statistics from IATA and is a valuable resource for global citizens and government policies.
Indian-American pharma tycoon Raju Mantena's daughter Neta's wedding in Udaipur is a star-studded affair with Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities in attendance. Karan Johar's viral Sangeet performance has drawn comparisons to Bollywood award shows. The two-day celebration will also include performances by Jennifer Lopez and Justin Bieber.
Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin appeals to PM Modi for approval of metro rail projects in Coimbatore and Madurai, highlighting their significance for the state's growth and India's development. Despite repeated requests, the proposals have been rejected, causing disappointment among the people of Tamil Nadu. The CM and his team are prepared to meet PM Modi to stress the importance of these projects.
Nalin Haley, the 24-year-old son of Indian-origin Republican leader Nikki Haley has stirred a major online storm after saying that only people born in the United States should be allowed to hold public office. His comments on immigrants, dual citizenship and visas set off a heated debate, given that his own family history stands in contrast to his remarks
Raju Mantena, a US-based healthcare technology entrepreneur and philanthropist, is hosting a lavish wedding in Udaipur, India. Guests from around the world, including celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Donald Trump Jr, are attending the event. Mantena's net worth is estimated to be $20 million, and he made headlines for his extravagant purchases and donations.
Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, sold $2.25 million in Bitcoin for $90,000 and plans to use the money to invest in surgery centres and a billboard business. He believes in Bitcoin's potential and encourages readers to have a get-rich plan by generating cash flow and reinvesting in assets.
Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi has made a comeback with Masti 4 after a three-year hiatus. With a net worth of Rs 1200 crore, he now resides in a luxurious villa in Dubai and runs his own real estate company. From humble beginnings, Oberoi has become a successful businessman with multiple ventures and a busy 16-hour workday. He has recently moved to Dubai with his family.
Indian-origin scholar Ron Hira, a professor at Howard University and one of the most outspoken critics of the H-1B visa, has once again questioned how the program works in the US. In a post on X, Hira wrote that a “significant number of H-1B visa holders are average-grade labor that could be supplied domestically.”
Lalit Keshre, a farmer's son turned billionaire, attributes his success to his humble upbringing and lessons from his grandfather. Despite setbacks, including a failed startup and working at Flipkart, Keshre's focus on simplicity and building a trustworthy brand has led to the success of his company, Groww.
CoinSwitch, a top crypto company, has expanded from one app to various products like trading platforms and futures. Safety is a top priority, with a Rs 600-crore initiative for affected users. Despite regulatory challenges, the company is profitable and has a positive market outlook. Crypto startup funding is also increasing.
Indian Air Force pilot Wing Commander Namansh Syal died in a crash at the Dubai Air Show while flying a Tejas fighter jet. A viral video from the event has gone viral on social media. It shows Syal interacting with dignitaries before posing for a picture. The crash occurred soon after take-off, and an investigation is ongoing. Syal, 34, was a brave officer from the Indian Air Force.
US President Donald Trump and New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani met in the Oval Office on Wednesday, a meeting that many expected to be tense given the past exchanges during the campaign. Instead, the tone was surprisingly friendly, with both focusing on the city’s affordability crisis and putting aside their earlier feelings towards each other.
The Indian government has officially implemented four labour codes, aiming to modernize working conditions, strengthen wage protection, improve productivity, and create more jobs. The codes consolidate 29 labour laws and introduce provisions for gig workers, fixed term workers, and ESI coverage. The codes also promote gender inclusivity and ease employer compliance.
Irdai Chairperson Ajay Seth emphasized the need for double-digit growth in the insurance industry, especially in a country with a young population. Premiums have reached Rs 11.19 lakh crore in FY24, but the cost of doing business remains high, making it difficult to sustain affordable premiums and quality services. Seth urged for product innovation and customer-centric reforms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Friday in Johannesburg, South Africa. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit
Indian officials are looking into possible safety violations in the supply of a pharmaceutical ingredient that may have led to the contamination of cough syrup, resulting in the deaths of 24 children. The investigation has uncovered flaws in global safety practices and led to the revocation of a manufacturing license and the arrest of the company's founder.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy must approve a U.S.-backed peace plan to end Russia's invasion, according to President Donald Trump. The approaching winter and rising death toll have heightened the urgency to end the war, but Washington's 28-point plan includes proposals Moscow may object to. Russian President Vladimir Putin has signaled openness to the plan.
The Trump administration may permit the sale of Nvidia's H200 AI chips to China, indicating a more amicable stance towards the country after a trade and tech war ceasefire. This could increase U.S. technology exports to China, but some fear the chips could be used for military purposes. The H200 chip is twice as powerful as the current most advanced AI chip allowed to be exported to China.
Sanjay Mehta, a serial entrepreneur, discusses the importance of making strategic financial planning shifts in our 50s and 60s to make the most of the additional 30-40 years of life ahead. These shifts include planning for longevity, managing volatility, prioritizing liquidity, simplifying financial life, and aligning money with personal values.
Zerodha, an online stock broking platform, reported a 22.9% decline in profits and an 11.5% decrease in revenue in the financial year ending March 2025. However, the company's operating margin improved and it holds a strong, debt-free balance sheet with a significant increase in cash and bank balances.
Billionbrains Garage Ventures Limited, parent company of discount broker Groww, saw a 12% increase in profit after tax in Q3 of 2025. Despite a 8% decrease in total income compared to last year, the company's average daily turnover for cash and derivatives segments showed significant growth.
Crisil Ratings forecasts a 50% surge in operating profit for OMCs in the current financial year, due to higher marketing margins and steady fuel prices. This will boost their capital expenditure and credit metrics. Despite a decline in refining margin, the increase in marketing margin is expected to compensate.
India's health insurance system is struggling with financial losses caused by fraud, inefficiencies, and policy violations. BCG and Medi Assist Healthcare suggest a three-pillar approach of Prevention, Detection and Deterrence using AI and GenAI to combat these issues. While the industry is expected to grow, increasing claims costs could result in higher premiums and limited healthcare access.
The Industrial Relations Code and Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code have been fully implemented, but some clauses in the Social Security Code and Wages Code have been excluded. These include provisions related to EPF schemes, coverage thresholds, and advisory boards. However, with most provisions now operational, the industry anticipates a faster roll-out of unified rules.
Goa is gearing up to be India's top destination for motorcycling enthusiasts with three upcoming festivals - Royal Enfield Motoverse, TVS MotoSoul, and India Bike Week. These festivals will offer thrilling races and off-road experiences, along with live music and international DJ performances.
Porsche has launched its biggest car, the Cayenne Electric, showcasing its commitment towards electrification. The SUV combines the brand's sporting DNA with EV performance, making it the most powerful production Porsche ever made. It has a 113-kWh battery and 800-volt architecture, allowing for ultra-fast charging speeds and optional inductive charging.
Royal Enfield launched the new Bullet 650, a more powerful version of the iconic Bullet 350, with a 650-cc engine to meet modern India's infrastructure needs. The design stays true to its heritage with subtle changes. The Bullet 650 is a perfect balance of the past and future, appealing to loyalists who desire enhanced performance without sacrificing the classic design.
TCS is investing heavily in AI infrastructure, setting itself apart in the industry. Analysts predict long-term success and customer loyalty as TCS aims to be the top AI tech services company in India. With a multi-year plan and billion-dollar investment, TCS is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing AI market.
Government scraps Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on industrial inputs including polyester yarn, while anti-dumping investigation into imports of Polyester Textured Yarn (PTY) from China begins. Reliance Industries and Wellknown Polyester filed a complaint, prompting probe. QCO withdrawal raises concerns about surge in low-priced imports.
Indian rupee hits record low of 89 level due to delay in US-India trade deal, closing at 89.41. RBI did not intervene, surprising traders. YTD depreciation of 4.62%, worst performing currency among Asian peers. RBI Governor confident of trade deal to relieve pressure on current account.
The pending four labour codes in India are expected to bring significant changes, including universal minimum wages and social security for all workers. They aim to ease compliance and promote formal job creation, while also providing benefits for gig workers and women working night shifts. However, their success will depend on proper enforcement.
Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey has announced plans to boost REITs and InvITs by allowing them to invest in liquid mutual funds and be included in equity indices. These measures aim to increase their investor base and liquidity in the market. Sebi is also proposing reforms in mutual fund and stockbroking regulations, including reducing brokerage charges and revising short-selling norms.
The new Labour Code on Social Security, 2020 requires gig and platform workers to receive healthcare, insurance, and old-age protections. Platforms like Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber will contribute 1-2% of their annual turnover towards these schemes. To ensure portable benefits, the government will issue an Aadhaar-linked Universal Account Number.
Benchmark indices, Sensex and Nifty, took a break on Friday after reaching all-time highs. They fell 0.47% each due to global cues and better-than-expected US non-farm payroll. This dampened rate cut expectations and raised concerns about the US-India trade deal. While FIIs sold shares, DIIs bought, resulting in a second consecutive week of green for the indices.
Asian equity markets, including domestic benchmarks, dropped on Friday due to strong US non-farm payroll data and rupee depreciation. The Sensex and Nifty ended 0.47% lower, but still posted positive returns for the second week in a row. Global cues and rupee depreciation dampened market sentiment, resulting in broader indices also falling.
RBI to link UPI with Eurosystem's TIPS for cross-border remittances, in line with G20 roadmap. Collaboration with European Central Bank to start realisation phase, expected to benefit users of both jurisdictions. NPCI also working on connecting UPI with fast payment systems of other nations. India's forex reserves jump to $692.6 billion, driven by rise in gold value.
The 5G spectrum auction is causing conflict between telecom companies, satellite service providers, and global technology firms. The main disagreements are over the use of the L-band and S-band for mobile networks, and the reservation of the 6GHz band for mobile use. The Broadband India Forum has emphasized the economic impact of delaying Wi-Fi use of the band.
Indian-origin lawyer Deepak Balwant Paradkar and nine others were arrested by the US Justice Department for their involvement with Canadian Olympic star-turned-drug lord Ryan James Wedding. Paradkar, also known as the "Cocaine Lawyer," is facing extradition to the US and has been linked to the FBI's Top 10 most-wanted fugitive list.
Indian Railways' RITES is striving to improve project execution to drive revenue growth, with an order book of over Rs 9,000 crore. To overcome challenges, the company has a three-pronged strategy and plans to achieve an order book of Rs 10,000 crore by Q1 of FY27. It is also fast-tracking export orders for locomotives.
India's retail sales have experienced a major increase, with double-digit growth for the first time in three years. This was due to GST cuts and high demand during the festive season. The implementation of GST 2.0 in September also contributed to the rise in sales, particularly in food, apparel, and furniture categories.
Taxpayers are receiving intimations for discrepancies in filed returns and annual information statements. They must respond by December 31 to avoid penalties. Sandeep Sehgal of AKM Global attributes this to increased compliance efforts. TDS credits should be reconciled and errors reported on the AIS portal.
The writer explains the process of transferring a property under a home loan to their sister's name, emphasizing the need to pay off the loan first. They suggest creating a registered agreement for the writer to pay the EMI on their sister's behalf. They also address inquiries about education loans, gold loans, and loans against shares.
Investment-grade bonds offer up to 13% yields, providing higher inflation-adjusted returns compared to bank fixed deposits. The minimum face value for corporate bonds has been reduced to Rs 10,000, making them more accessible to retail investors. Bonds also offer capital safety and potential gains through interest rate changes and credit rating upgrades.
The removal of GST on life insurance premiums has resulted in a rise in the use of riders, such as critical illness and waiver of premium, for added protection. This is a more cost-effective approach compared to increasing the base cover of term insurance. Women are specifically choosing critical illness riders with cancer screening benefits.
This Friday, OTT platforms offer a diverse range of entertainment options. From real-life adaptations and sports dramas to political conspiracies and an intimate look at the lives of Bollywood celebrities, there's something for everyone. Notable releases include Homebound, The Family Man Season 3, One Shot With Ed Sheeran and others.
Kotak Mahindra Bank has decided to split its stocks in a 5-for-1 ratio to make them more accessible and boost market participation. The approval process involves the bank's members, RBI, and other regulatory authorities and is expected to be completed in two months.
India's forex reserves rose to $692.576 billion in November, with gold reserves increasing by $5.327 billion. This led to a jump of $5.543 billion from the previous week. Foreign currency assets also saw a slight increase, while the SDRs and reserve position with the IMF also grew. PMI data showed a decline in manufacturing and private sector growth in November.
Tata Power to invest Rs 1,572 crore in 1.1 GW hydropower project in Bhutan, with a total cost of Rs 13,000 crore. Company holds 60% stake, Druk Green Power owns 40%. 80% of power to be supplied to India. Project commissioned in Sept. 2031, supported by Bhutan govt. and World Bank.
Fatima Bosch of Mexico has been crowned the new Miss Universe, overcoming controversy and mistreatment during the competition. She beat over 100 contestants to secure Mexico's fourth win at the pageant. Despite scandals and rigging allegations, her victory stands as a triumph over adversity and a bright spot in a tumultuous event.
HG Infra Engineering and Kalpataru Projects International have won a Rs 1,415 crore contract from Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation to build an elevated metro viaduct for the Thane Integral Ring Metro Project. The project will be completed in 36 months and the JV has placed a bid of Rs 1,415 crore, adding to the company's recent contract win of Rs 274 crore from DLF.
Pune's IT sector is struggling with layoffs amidst the global economic downturn. The Labour Commissioner has been receiving multiple complaints against wrongful termination, with five of them against TCS. The IT employee union has also stepped in and is urging others to speak up and fight for their rights.