India, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has made remarkable advancements in digitalisation, science and technology, space, and AI. The UPI platform has propelled India to the forefront of real-time payments, with monthly volumes exceeding 20 billion and values of rS 25 lakh crore. The digital infrastructure, particularly India Stack, has accelerated processes and promoted transparency.
Kerala High Court orders vigilance inquiry into missing gold from Sabarimala temple, expresses concern over grave irregularities. 4 kg of gold missing from copper plates covering Dwarapalaka idols, weight dropped significantly during re-plating. TDB failed to report discrepancy, court orders comprehensive investigation and full cooperation.
Ducati has announced a recall for the Panigale V4 and Streetfighter V4 in India due to a defective rear axle. This is part of a global recall affecting 393 units of the two motorcycles manufactured between 2018-2024 (Panigale V4) and 2018-2025 (Streetfighter V4). The issue was first reported in 2023 when a rear axle broke while a motorcycle was running.
Genetic testing is becoming more accessible and affordable, with basic tests costing as low as Rs 5,000-Rs 6,000 and comprehensive sequencing for Rs 12,000 to Rs 50,000. This valuable tool helps individuals and their future children manage health risks. By 2030, the market for genetic testing in India is expected to reach $1.7 billion due to technological advancements and increased awareness.
RailTel Corporation of India has recently experienced a surge in stock price and new order wins, particularly from the Bihar Education Project Council. The company's net profit has also increased by 36%. Overall, RailTel Corporation has delivered a 17.5% return since September, making it a promising investment opportunity.
The demerger process of Vedanta at NCLT is facing obstacles as the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas raises concerns about misrepresentation of assets and lack of disclosure of loans. The Ministry is seeking transparency and detailed disclosures, but is not opposing the demerger itself. Vedanta's legal team argues that they have fulfilled all disclosure requirements.
ABC suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live! for insensitive comments about Charlie Kirk's death. Sinclair's ABC to air special honoring Kirk in same time slot. Kimmel's remarks deemed inappropriate, show pulled from 32 affiliates. Kimmel takes jab at Trump and other political figures, Trump celebrates suspension and calls Kimmel "zero talent" and accuses him of spreading fake news.
Yes Bank's share price has been in focus as SBI sells stake to Japan's SMBC, making it the biggest cross-border divestment in India's banking sector. SMBC is nearing the RBI-approved limit of 24.99% shareholding and Indian banks like Bandhan Bank and Federal Bank have also reduced their exposure to Yes Bank.
A cloudburst in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand has caused significant damage, with six houses buried under debris and 10 people missing. Rescue and relief operations are underway, with the names of the missing persons released. The disaster follows days of extreme rainfall in the state, which has already claimed 15 lives and left 16 missing.
Startups and industry representatives have requested an independent and transparent market study on the Digital Competition Bill from the finance minister. They recommend clear objectives and expert input from domestic and global institutions. Startups also want relaxed criteria for the selection of the market study agency to include a diverse range of institutions.
Indian equity indices opened higher for the third consecutive session due to the US Fed rate cut. The NSE Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex opened higher, along with Bank Nifty, small and midcap stocks. The Fed chief described the rate cut as a “risk management cut” due to economic uncertainty. The Indian stock market is expected to remain bullish due to earnings revival.
President Trump plans to label antifa, a far-left militant group, as a “major terrorist organization” on social media. However, the group is not a single entity and is composed of different groups that oppose fascists and neo-Nazis. It remains uncertain how the administration will classify this decentralized movement.
President Trump and King Charles III hosted a state banquet at Windsor Castle, UK, with powerful names in technology and finance in attendance. The dinner resulted in £150 billion in fresh US commitments, with companies like Blackstone and Microsoft pledging billions towards UK infrastructure.
The Euro Pratik Sales IPO is set to close today after a three-day subscription window, with strong demand from investors. Bids for over 10.32 crore shares have been received, against just 1.23 crore shares on offer. The grey market trend indicates a 2% premium for the shares, currently trading at Rs 252 per share.
Amazon's Indian marketplace, Amazon Seller Services, has achieved operational profitability for the first time in its 12-year history in the country. Its Ebitda reached Rs 2,770 crore while losses narrowed by 89%. Revenue rose by 18.6%, and cash flow from operations surged to Rs 4,942 crore.
HMIL and its employees' union have agreed on a wage settlement for a salary increase of ?31,000 per month over three years. The hike will be distributed in a 55%, 25%, and 20% ratio, with a focus on employee welfare through health coverage and wellness programs. The agreement, based on trust and respect, highlights their dedication to a progressive workplace.
During Trump's state visit to London, a Spirit Airlines jet almost collided with Air Force One, causing concern online. Recordings showed a controller urgently instructing the pilots to change course and criticizing their use of an iPad. Despite this, Trump safely arrived for meetings and potential investments in UK technology infrastructure.
Peak XV Partners, a venture capital firm spun out of Sequoia Capital, is expecting profitable public market debuts from its investments in Groww, Pine Labs, Wakefit, and Meesho. As its largest shareholder, Peak XV plans to sell shares in these companies, with potential returns up to 11.5 times higher than other early investors. Despite changes, the firm is poised to benefit from upcoming IPOs.
The EU has agreed to adjust the carbon price paid by Indian exporters under the CBAM and simplify rules for small businesses. The CBAM will start collecting tax in 2026 and the EU will share lessons on emissions trading with India. The agenda also includes initiatives for skills mobility, tech cooperation, decarbonisation, and strengthening regional connectivity.
The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for the first time since December, in response to concerns about unemployment and weakness in the labor market. This decision, supported by new Fed Governor Stephen Miran, aligns with President Trump's wishes. Fed Chair Jerome Powell expressed concerns about balancing inflation and maximum employment.
Three law enforcement officers were killed and two were critically injured in a shooting in Codorus Township, Pennsylvania. The officers were investigating a domestic-related incident when they were shot. The suspect was also killed by police. Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his condolences and requested prayers for the victims' families.
ABC has suspended Jimmy Kimmel's show indefinitely following his controversial comments about the killing of Charlie Kirk. Nexstar, the network's affiliate, will pre-empt the show due to Kimmel's offensive remarks. Kimmel's spokesperson has not yet responded. This raises questions about the impact of political views in the entertainment industry.
India's agricultural and processed food exports have grown by 10% this year, with rice, buffalo meat, fruits, and vegetables leading the surge. Despite US tariff concerns, rice exports are expected to rise as global buyers turn to India. The government has also lifted restrictions on rice shipments, boosting export prospects for all food products.
The CAG of India is organizing a conference with state finance secretaries to discuss reporting framework for centrally sponsored schemes and state PSUs, and launch the 'CAG-Connect Portal' for digital interface. They will also focus on using AI and remote auditing for better efficiency, consistency, and strengthening auditing of state public sector entities and autonomous bodies.
Groww, a fintech platform based in Bengaluru, is moving back to India from the US and is set to become the first major Indian startup to list domestically. Its upcoming Rs 7,000-crore IPO is expected to bring high returns to investors. The company has paid $159 million in taxes to US authorities, resulting in significant exits for foreign firms that invested in the company, such as Y Combinator.
Urban Company's shares debuted strongly on the bourses, opening at a 57.5% premium over the IPO price of Rs 103. The stock settled at Rs 169 on the NSE, with a market capitalisation of Rs 24,267 crore. The IPO was subscribed 108.98 times and raised Rs 1,900 crore.
The road from Dehradun to Mussoorie has been closed for two days due to cloudbursts and heavy rain, leaving 2,500 tourists stranded. 13 deaths have been reported and an alternative route is being constructed. Hotel owners are offering free one-night stays to stranded tourists. The road is expected to open for light vehicles by Wednesday night, allowing tourists to resume their travels.
The Indian government is actively seeking international technology partnerships to develop geothermal energy projects. Multiple foreign companies, such as those from the US, Norway, and Iceland, have started pilot studies. A national policy has been established and potential funding options may be available.
SEBI may ease regulations for currency derivatives trade to facilitate complete hedge of commodity prices. Anup Gupta, chairman of BSE Brokers' Forum, highlighted the gap in hedging at the MCX event and proposed using price structures from exchanges like CME and LME. This gap has led to a sharp drop in volumes and industry experts are urging for a regulatory review to enable complete hedging.
Chinese authorities have indicated easing restrictions on rare earth magnet exports to India, but no actual shipments have been made, causing supply chain disruptions for auto and component manufacturers. Companies have reached out to government and industry bodies for help, but no progress has been made.
The rupee gained 25 paise to 87.80 against the dollar, driven by optimism for an India-US trade deal and a weak dollar index. This marks the fourth consecutive day of gains, with market participants unwinding USD-INR positions while awaiting positive news on trade policy. However, the rupee still lags behind its Asian peers as the dollar index falls to 96.76 and the FOMC is expected to cut rates.
Police, owned by De Rigo group, targets Rs 100 crore sales this year with 50% annual growth. The brand offers stylish watches for men in the Rs 15,000-30,000 range and has appointed KL Rahul as its brand ambassador. Expanding in India, a key market, is also part of its plans.
System liquidity fell to a three-month low of Rs 70,579 crore on Tuesday, causing overnight rates to spike and market participants to panic borrow. RBI's efforts to maintain sufficient liquidity through rate cuts and VRR auctions have not been successful, but experts believe liquidity will improve and return to previous levels by the end of the month.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has reduced GST rates on essential and middle-class goods and services, injecting Rs 2 lakh crore into the economy. The number of GST slabs has been reduced to 2 - 5% and 18%, with a special 40% rate for sin goods. This move is expected to boost consumption and benefit businesses and end-consumers.
The income tax department conducted a surprise survey at Marico's premises, led by the Mumbai investigation wing. The scope of the survey was not disclosed, but it involved 200 officers and comes ahead of the GST 2.0 rollout. Marico's stocks were down by 1.59% and the company's FY25 sales and net profit saw a year-on-year increase.
WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is hopeful for the 14th ministerial conference despite global trade turbulence caused by US tariffs. She believes the conference will be a success and is eager about the agenda. Reforms may be necessary to prevent veto power from impeding decision-making. The conference will take place in March 2026 and trade flows remain strong despite US actions.
SMBC to acquire additional 4.2% stake in YES Bank from Carlyle Group for Rs 28.5 billion. This will bring SMBC's total shareholding in YES Bank to 24.2%. SBI completes divestment of 13.18% stake in YES Bank to SMBC for Rs 8,888.97 crore. SMBC sells its entire 1.65% stake in Kotak Mahindra Bank.
"Financial institutions are offering festive schemes to drive consumption as GST 2.0 is set to roll out. Kotak Mahindra Bank, L&T Finance, and IDFC FIRST Bank have launched campaigns targeting lifestyle, entertainment, and consumer goods. LTF's schemes for two-wheeler buyers include no-cost EMI and prompt payment rebate.
Love pasta, but worried about blood sugar spikes? French biochemist Jessie Inchauspé reveals how cooking time can make all the difference. Longer cooking times make pasta easy to digest, causing a big spike in glucose levels. Cooking al dente reduces this spike, reducing metabolic stress on the body.
WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala criticized India, South Africa, and Turkiye for blocking the IFD Agreement, which could disadvantage countries struggling to attract investments. She urged ministers to discuss the issue at the 14th Ministerial Conference in March 2022.
The World Trade Organisation predicts that AI could boost cross-border trade by 40% by 2040, leading to a 34-37% rise in global trade and a 12-13% increase in global GDP. AI could also reduce trade costs, increase productivity, and promote inclusive growth. However, access to AI-enabling goods and digital infrastructure is uneven, emphasizing the need for fair trade policies.
Warren Buffett, the legendary investor with a net worth of $141 billion, defies conventional billionaire habits. He prioritizes his sleep, indulges in his love for books and Bridge, and follows a diet that includes McDonald's and five cans of Coke a day. At 94, he continues to run his company, Berkshire Hathaway, and credits his sharp mind to his unconventional habits.
JK Tyre has received rectification orders for tax penalties imposed by state governments, reducing the penalties to 10% of the GST amount. The company plans to contest the penalties and has seen a 16% increase in share price in the last month. Q1FY26 profit also declined by 26.8%.
SEBI is taking steps to boost institutional involvement in commodity markets by permitting FPIs, banks, insurance companies, and pension funds to trade in non-agricultural contracts. The announcement led to a rise in MCX's share price. A committee has been formed by SEBI to enhance agricultural commodities and develop the non-agricultural sector.
Tesla has reached confidential settlements in two lawsuits over fatal crashes involving its Autopilot software in California. The company rejected a $60 million settlement proposal for a Florida case and has hired new lawyers to request a new trial or dismiss the verdict. These settlements are important for Tesla's self-driving technology and its valuation.
Ather Energy's shares have seen a steady increase, with a 3% rise today and 37% in the last month. The company has set ambitious goals of achieving EBITDA break-even and a 35% gross margin. Emkay Global is positive about the festive season and the company's new EL platform and shift to LFP batteries. Ather Energy is also focusing on expanding distribution and vertical integration for growth.
Nissan Motor is studying Chinese suppliers' practices to cut variable costs by 250 billion yen. They plan to reduce costs by 500 billion yen by 2027 and strengthen collaboration with suppliers. The company has reduced production of the new Leaf electric vehicle due to battery procurement delays. Nissan is betting on the new Leaf model to revive its fortunes.
India's export growth in August was driven by a rise in merchandise exports and a decrease in imports, resulting in a lower trade deficit. However, the US's 50% tariff on Indian goods has affected exports, while other markets provided some relief. Textile and gems & jewellery exports were hit. The services trade surplus and manageable current account deficit offer some support.
Unni Mukundan to portray PM Modi in biopic 'Maa Vande: The Anthem of a Mother', showcasing his rise to power and his bond with his mother. Mukundan reveals the impact of two words spoken by Modi and expresses his excitement for the release of the film in multiple languages.
SBI's share price rose by 3% as it completed the sale of 13.19% stake in Yes Bank to SMBC for Rs 8,888.97 crore. The transaction received regulatory approvals and contributed Rs 512.12 crore to SBI's profits in the last financial year. SMFG emerged as the largest foreign shareholder with a 20% stake, while SBI still holds a 24% stake. Other prominent entities also hold a stake in Yes Bank.
The new GST reforms by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will inject Rs 2 lakh crore into the economy, benefiting the middle class, farmers, and MSMEs. The changes include a reduction in tax rates for goods, with 99% of items under the 12% slab moving to 5% and 90% of items under the 28% slab slipping into 18%.