Sulakshana Pandit, a renowned actor and singer, died at 71 from a heart attack. She was known for her iconic roles in movies like Uljhan and her melodious singing in various languages. Born in 1954, she came from a musically gifted family and is survived by her siblings. Fans paid tribute to her unforgettable contributions to the industry.
Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, will not run for reelection in 2026. Her decision follows a redistricting plan in California to secure Democratic control in the upcoming midterm elections. Pelosi, a progressive icon, has been a fierce opponent of former President Trump. Her retirement was unexpected.
Bharti Airtel's foreign promoter Singtel will sell 0.8% stake in the Indian telco for Rs 10,300 crore through a block deal on Friday. This will be executed at a floor price of Rs 2,030 per share, with JP Morgan India as the placement agent. The transaction, expected to settle on November 10, includes a lock-up period of 60 days. Singtel's subsidiary, Pastel, is the largest foreign promoter in
Apollo Hospitals experienced significant growth in net profit, revenue from operations, and Ebitda in the second quarter, driven by the success of its healthcare, pharmacy, and digital health businesses. The company also has plans to expand its capacity in the next five years.
Praveen Kumar Kapoor, co-founder of SRS Group, was deported from the US to India on the basis of an Interpol Red Corner Notice. He is accused of cheating investors and banks of Rs 2,200 crore and is currently being interrogated by the ED. His B1/B2 visa was cancelled, and he may be taken into custody soon. The ED is also questioning him about two other absconding promoter-directors.
Ola Electric, a leading electric two-wheeler maker, has revised its revenue and volume outlook for the current year due to weak deliveries in the first half. The company now expects a consolidated revenue of Rs 3,000-3,200 crore and plans to sell 220,000 units, down from the earlier guidance of Rs 4,200-4,700 crore and 325,000-375,000 units, respectively.
The Challenger report shows a sharp increase in job cuts in October, reaching the highest numbers in over 20 years. This brings the total layoffs for the year to over 1 million, a 65% increase from last year. The rise is linked to factors such as AI adoption, decreased spending, and rising costs. Social media has also changed the way companies announce layoffs before the holidays.
The GIFT Nifty started Friday's session lower at 25,511, down 0.31%, as investors monitored global trends in crude oil, gold, and currencies. Equity markets closed lower on Thursday, with the Sensex falling 148 points and the Nifty slipping 88 points. The Nifty Bank index also declined. Asian markets opened weak, with major indices trading lower.
A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to fully fund food aid for 42 million low-income Americans in November, accusing them of withholding benefits for "political reasons". The judge warns of hunger and hardship if aid is not provided, but the Trump administration has appealed the decision. The USDA blames Senate Democrats for compromising SNAP.
Quarterly results, buyback plans, and new project wins have kept several companies in the spotlight. While some firms have posted strong profits, others have faced pressure from weak earnings and higher costs. The Sensex and Nifty both closed lower on Thursday, with the Nifty Bank index also dropping.
President Trump has changed his view on tariffs, recognizing that they are causing higher prices for Americans. Despite this, he maintains that tariffs are ultimately beneficial. The legality of his tariff authority was challenged by Supreme Court judges, with Trump warning of potential consequences if they rule against him.
Pine Labs, a fintech company, is launching its Rs 3,900 crore IPO today, open for subscription until November 11. The issue includes a mix of fresh shares and an Offer for Sale, with the company aiming to raise Rs 2,080 crore through the fresh issue and existing shareholders selling shares worth Rs 1,820 crore.
U.S. airlines are facing challenges due to the government shutdown, with flight reductions and cancellations expected to affect hundreds of thousands of travelers. While international flights are not affected, major carriers like Delta and United are offering flexibility for changes and using bigger planes to accommodate passengers.
Trump praises Modi as a "great man" and hints at a visit to India next year to boost trade relations. This follows the cancellation of his plan to attend the Quad Summit due to US tariffs. They have also discussed lowering the cost of weight loss drugs in the US, with a company rep fainting during the announcement. Trump's remarks align with his administration's efforts.
Godrej Properties reports strong Q2 profit growth, misses revenue estimates. Chairman Pirojsha Godrej expresses confidence in surpassing FY26 booking and launch targets. Net debt rises, but debt-to-equity ratio remains conservative. Company expects strong sales in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, with potential for high deliveries in Q4.
The report by Randstad India shows that Generation Z is changing the traditional work landscape with their focus on flexibility, fair pay, and purpose. This generation's preferences are reshaping how companies attract and retain talent, emphasizing the need for lifelong learning, inclusivity, and flexibility.
Google Maps introduces AI-driven conversational interface for Indian users, featuring India-specific updates like real-time highway updates, accident alerts, and customisable icons for two-wheeler riders. The app offers voice guidance in nine Indian languages and aims to make navigation more intuitive and context-aware by combining AI and local data.
Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey emphasized the need for governance to focus on substance rather than just structure in the face of evolving technology. He also stressed the importance of monitoring and nurturing company culture and incorporating ESG values in disclosure. Pandey suggested using technology for compliance and surveillance to improve transparency and efficiency.
India's services sector, a significant contributor to the economy, saw a slower growth in October due to competition and heavy rains. However, the manufacturing sector showed a higher number, fueled by the demand boost from GST reductions. The index of industrial production also rose, indicating a timely supply response for the festive season.
LIC's Q2 net profit jumps by 32% to ₹10,054 crore thanks to increased premium income and investment gains. However, market share dips below 60% due to product mix changes and GST-related issues. CEO R Doraiswamy prioritizes profitable growth and anticipates GST exemption to boost new business volumes.
RBI and Sebi are considering bond derivatives to boost interest in debt instruments for retail investors. Outstanding bank credit to industry and services is Rs 91 trillion, while corporate bonds stand at Rs 54 trillion. Pandey emphasizes the importance of governance beyond structure, suggesting scorecards and ethics committees for transparency and accountability in the digital age.
The Agriculture ministry is urging all states to open escrow accounts to ensure timely settlement of crop insurance claims under PMFBY. Only 11 out of 24 states have opened accounts, causing delays in claim settlements. The scheme offers coverage for natural disasters and pests, with fixed premiums of 1.5% and 2% for rabi and kharif crops respectively.
Freshworks, a Nasdaq-listed SaaS company, reported a 15% increase in revenue for the third quarter, with a narrowed loss from operations and improved operating margin. The company has raised its full-year revenue guidance for the third consecutive time and expects continued growth in the fourth quarter. The number of customers with high recurring revenue also increased.
Ambuja Cements' Q2 results show a rise in volume, realisations, and cost efficiencies due to the integration of Sanghi Industries, Penna Cement, and Orient Cement. The company achieved its highest-ever Q2 sales volume, thanks to the ramp-up and consolidation of acquired assets. The switch to Adani Cement brands has boosted distribution and pricing capabilities.
Indian and New Zealand trade ministers discussed progress in Free Trade Agreement negotiations, aiming for a balanced and future-ready pact that respects sensitivities and boosts economic ties. The Indian minister also co-chaired a CEOs Roundtable and negotiations are focusing on key areas like trade in goods and services.
The government securities market is experiencing low demand due to continuous supply and low interest from banks, insurance companies, and pension funds. The RBI has rejected higher yield bids and may use open market operations to maintain liquidity and protect yields. Discussions are ongoing between the RBI and market participants regarding the impact of high yield levels.
ABD, known for Officer's Choice brand, aims for mid-double-digit revenue growth in FY26 with launch of 3 high-end brands. Prestige and above segment contributed 47% to sales in Q2, with plans to cross 50% in next 12-18 months. ABD Maestro subsidiary launched at Bengaluru and Delhi airports, with plans for Mumbai.
The CAG will audit Indian Railways' multi-modal transport and logistics initiatives across nine zones, three ministries, and select routes. The report will be presented to Parliament next year with the goal of reducing costs, improving freight movement, and increasing modal share to 45% by 2030. The audit aims to enhance ease of doing business and decrease transit time.
20,000 crores SBI, India's largest bank, will take its fund management arm, SBIFML, public through an IPO in 2026, pending regulatory approval. The joint venture between SBI and French firm Amundi will see both companies selling 10% of their stake. Experts estimate SBIFML's value to be Rs. 20,000 crores due to its strong performance and market dominance.
India has made good progress in free trade agreement talks with Peru and Chile, with a focus on securing critical mineral supplies. Intersessional meetings will be held to address remaining issues, with both sides committed to reaching a timely conclusion. The agreement will open up new opportunities for cooperation in various sectors and benefit India's main exports and imports.
PhysicsWallah, an edtech major, has announced its IPO with a price band of Rs 103-109 per share, comprising a fresh issue of Rs 3,100 crore and an offer for sale worth Rs 380 crore by co-founders Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari. The company's financial performance has improved significantly, with a 49% increase in operating revenue and a 79% decrease in losses in FY25.
Kerala government's Extreme Poverty Eradication Project (EPEP) has successfully redefined what it means to be poor in the state. It identified households lacking basic entitlements and provided them with customised micro-plans for sustainable livelihoods. The project's success is attributed to Kerala's decentralised governance, social mobilisation, and long-term investment in human development.
MSCI Standard Index to add Paytm, Fortis Healthcare, GE Vernova T&D, and Siemens Energy in quarterly review. Tata Elxsi and Container Corp of India to be excluded. India's weight in index to rise to 15.6%, with 8 stocks seeing weightage increase and 7 seeing decrease.
PhysicsWallah is expanding its offline presence and state board preparation. Their focus is on academic growth and building a strong foundation in various exam categories. The offline model has shown potential for consistent growth and faculty attrition is performance-driven.
In 2026, Bollywood is set to release many high-profile films, including the highly anticipated Border 2 starring Sunny Deol and Varun Dhawan. The first look poster was recently released, featuring Dhawan as Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, a hero of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. Dahiya's bravery and courage during the war, which ultimately earned him the Param Vir Chakra, are highlighted.
NIIT MTS had a successful Q2 of FY 2025-26, with a 5% rise in net revenue and 20% increase in profit year-on-year. They gained three new global clients and maintained a 100% contract renewal rate. The company's investment in AI-enabled learning and strategic expansions, such as the acquisition of MST Group and partnership with Sana, were highlighted by CEO Sapnesh Lalla.
Kokuyo, a Japanese major, is expanding in the Indian market through acquisitions and targeting residential real estate, lifestyle, and education segments. Its goal is to triple its India revenue in five years, with plans to increase manufacturing and product range. The company aims for an annual revenue of $3.5 billion by 2030 and has rebranded HNI India to Kokuyo Workplace India.
India's solar PV module manufacturing capacity is projected to reach 165 GW by March 2027 due to government policies and initiatives like ALMM list, customs duty, and PLI scheme. However, the domestic market may face overcapacity due to US tariffs, leading to consolidation of smaller players.
KPMG and Svayam's White Paper reveals India's potential loss of $214 billion annually due to inaccessibility in key sectors like tourism, sports, and technology. The report stresses the importance of treating accessibility as an economic strategy to boost GDP growth, productivity, and innovation.
LIC of India recorded a 31.92% YoY growth in Q2 FY26 with a standalone profit of Rs 10,053 crore. The insurer's Net Premium Income also rose by 5.4% YoY to Rs 1,26,479 crore. CEO & MD R Doraiswamy believes that the recent GST changes will benefit customers and lead to accelerated growth. In H1 FY26, LIC's total premium income increased by 5.14% to
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman discussed plans to create large and world-class banks in India with the RBI at the 12th SBI Banking and Economics Conclave. The government and LIC are moving forward with privatizing IDBI Bank, and SEBI has approved LIC's reclassification as a public shareholder. The government has also consolidated public sector banks, and emphasized infrastructure creation.
KGF actor Harish Rai's death at 55 has shed light on thyroid cancer, a disease that can be challenging to treat if not caught early. While papillary thyroid cancer is highly curable, follicular and anaplastic thyroid cancer pose more difficulties. Early detection is crucial, and any changes in voice or swallowing should not be ignored.
SEBI has amended rules for anchor investors in IPOs, increasing total reservation to 40% and allowing a maximum of 15 investors for IPOs above Rs 250 crore. The regulator aims to attract long-term institutional investors such as mutual funds, insurance companies, and pension funds. The new framework would come into force from November 30 and aims to broaden participation in IPOs.
Rohini Nilekani, chairperson of Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies and director of EkStep, has topped the 12th annual EdelGive Hurun India Philanthropy List 2025 with a cumulative donation of Rs 763 crores. Nilekani, a firm supporter of gender equity, education, climate resilience, justice, governance, and civil society, has used her immense wealth for the betterment of society.
P&G Hygiene and Health Care recorded a slight decrease in its profit after tax at Rs 209.86 crore for the September quarter. However, the company's revenue from operations saw a 1.32% increase year-on-year to Rs 1,150.17 crore. The company's total expenses also rose by 2.3%, while its total income, including other income, rose by 1.43%.
Bajaj Housing Finance, a subsidiary of the Bajaj Group, reported a 18% increase in profits in the second quarter of FY25-26. The company's profit after tax was Rs 643 crore, compared to Rs 583 crore in the same quarter of the previous year. Its net interest income also grew by 34%, while total income increased by 22%. Additionally, the company's assets under management saw a 24% growth
Reliance Industries, led by Mukesh Ambani, plans to sell Middle Eastern oil to domestic and international buyers amid US sanctions on Russian oil companies. Reliance has already sold Iraqi Basrah Medium crude and offers Murban and Upper Zakum grades on the spot market.
Indian equity benchmarks closed lower on Thursday, with all frontline indices in the red. The Nifty 50 and Sensex ended 0.34% and 0.18% lower, respectively. The banking sector and midcap stocks also saw declines. Despite early optimism, volatility and profit booking dominated the market, with FII outflows and weak domestic PMI readings. Asian Paints was the top gainer.
India and New Zealand are in the final stages of negotiating a free trade agreement, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. He expressed hope that the deal will be finalized soon during his four-day visit to review progress with his New Zealand counterpart Todd McClay.
Zohran Mamdani celebrated his historic win by having lunch with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at a Nepalese restaurant in NYC. The diverse food choices, including chai and momo, showcased his embrace of multi-cultural roots. AOC praised Mamdani's commitment to making NYC affordable and safe for working families. The outing received positive reactions online.