India's crude import bill rose by 14.7% to $60.6 billion in the first five months of the current fiscal year, with a 3.2% increase in crude oil imports. Despite efforts to boost production and reduce import dependency, production has not improved. The government plans to increase exploration acreage and auction oil and natural gas assets in 2025.
DCB Bank is targeting a growth of 18-20% in loans and deposits this year, with a reported loan growth of 19.14% and deposit growth of 18.8%. The recent GST reforms and repo rate cut have boosted expectations and impacted consumer behavior. The bank's focus is on secured, small-ticket lending to SMEs and becoming a full-fledged financial partner. They also aim to reduce slippages.
The implementation of GST 2.0 has doubled car sales in the automotive industry, with a predicted total of 650,000-700,000 units sold by Diwali. Major carmakers like Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Hyundai, and Mahindra have all experienced a significant increase in sales due to the reduction in GST rates.
Venu Srinivasan's reappointment to the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust board was unanimous and attention now turns to Mehli Mistry's reappointment. However, selecting new members for the Tata Sons board may prove difficult due to tensions between the two groups in Tata Trusts. A prolonged stalemate is possible due to their hard stances.
IndiGo will resume operations from Delhi's Terminal 2 on October 26, along with Air India's domestic operations. The move is part of efforts to streamline traffic across terminals and enhance operational efficiency. IndiGo flights numbered 6E 2000-6E 2999 will operate from Terminal 2, while 6E 5000-6E 5999 and all international flights will operate from Terminal 3.
23-year-old Tamil-Canadian star Maitreyi Ramkrishnan has become a prominent South Asian face in Netflix dramas. Despite delaying her university acceptance to focus on acting, she has now graduated with a degree in human rights and equity studies. Her success reflects her dedication to social justice, evident in her role as an ambassador for Plan International Canada.
India's hotel industry is seeing a surge in the construction of branded rooms, with the mid-market and upper mid-market segments accounting for half of the pipeline. This is driven by the demand from the growing middle class and favorable tax reductions for mid-range hotels.
Coca-Cola's Q3 financial numbers for Asia-Pacific including India showed a 1% volume decline due to inclement weather and softer consumer spending. Despite these challenges, the company gained value share and grew revenue and profit. Rival PepsiCo also flagged similar concerns.
India's national minimum wage rate has not been updated in 8 years, causing disparities between states and industries. The National Floor Level Minimum Wage (NFLMW) has not changed since 2017, but revising it could lift workers out of poverty. Minimum wages are determined by the Minimum Wages Act and differ by employment type and state.
The RBI's October bulletin revealed that high interest rates on small savings instruments are hindering the transmission of policy rates to bank deposit rates, potentially causing a shift of deposits away from banks. The government's rates for post office term deposits are significantly higher than formula-based rates, but experts believe this will not greatly affect banks.
BigBasket, run by Tata Digital, has successfully transitioned to a unified quick commerce model, with over 700 mid-sized dark stores and plans to reach 800 by the end of the year. This shift has simplified their supply chain and eliminated the pricing advantage previously offered for slotted delivery.
Steel sector performance supported core sector output in September, growing 3% year-on-year despite contraction in four of eight components of the Index of Eight Core Industries. However, this growth was lower than August's 6.5% expansion. Steel sector, with a weight of 17.92% in the index, grew 14.1% in September.
Investors are worried about a potential stock market crash due to US tariff policies and overvalued sectors like AI. Nithin Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, suggests reading "1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History" to comprehend the cycle of market crashes.
The procurement of Kharif paddy by FCI and state government agencies has begun successfully, with 8.81 MT being purchased, a 96% increase from last year. Punjab and Haryana have contributed the most, and Tamil Nadu has also shown a significant increase. The government has a target of 46.35 MT for this season, and the central pool currently has over 44 MT of rice stock.
The RBI's decision to increase the loan against shares limit to Rs 1 crore is expected to boost the borrowing and investing activities of HNIs. This move is likely to increase the growth rate in this segment and provide investors with more capital from their portfolios. However, proper processes and credit management are crucial for its success.
The government plans to draft a new law to handle insolvency of urban local bodies and municipal corporations, in order to boost investments in urban infrastructure. This comes after the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board amendments are implemented. The new law will help lenders assess risks and allow municipalities to access capital markets.
Equity benchmarks Nifty 50 and Sensex hit new 52-week highs but closed only 0.1% higher due to profit-booking, making it the worst Muhurat trading session in eight years. However, broader indices outperformed and investor wealth touched a new one-year high. Experts predict double-digit earnings recovery and low double-digit returns in the upcoming year.
Diwali sales in India hit a record high of Rs 6.05 lakh crore in 2025, with a 25% increase from the previous year. This was due to GST rate cuts and a rise in demand for local products. Traditional trade saw a resurgence, making up 85% of total trade, with rural and semi-urban areas contributing significantly.
The experimental on-boarding of commodity bourses has resulted in a significant increase in sales of farm goods by FPOs. A total of 62 FPOs have sold over Rs 377 crore worth of commodities on the NCDEX platform, with 35 of them achieving sales over Rs 1 crore.
Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles achieved a record-breaking milestone of delivering 1 lakh vehicles in just 30 days during the festive season, with a significant increase in demand for SUVs and electric vehicles. CEO Shailesh Chandra is confident about the rest of the fiscal year, thanks to new launches and continued customer excitement. The company also saw significant sales on Dhanteras
China has filed a complaint with the WTO against India's PLI schemes for EVs and RE, claiming discrimination and violation of multilateral agreements. While consultations have begun, experts believe that India's support for EVs will continue regardless of the final ruling due to the limited functionality of the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism.
India's core infrastructure sectors' growth rate increased by 3% in September 2025, according to official data from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. This is a significant improvement from the previous year's growth rate of 2.4%. However, the overall growth for April-September of this fiscal year was 2.9%, lower than the previous year's 4.3% growth.
Bollywood celebrities spared no expense in celebrating Diwali this year, with lavish parties, glamorous outfits, and heart-warming moments. Alia Bhatt spent time with both her in-laws and her family, while Kiara Advani and Siddharth Malhotra celebrated their first Diwali as new parents. Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Kumar enjoyed the festivities in London, while Ananya Panday celebrated with family.
Sensex and Nifty closed higher in special Muhurat trading session, starting Samvat 2082 positively. Cautious optimism seen in indices compared to 2024, boosted by recent GST changes and low inflation. NSE Chief reiterated need for making informed decisions.
The 2025 Diwali festive season saw a 24% increase in e-commerce order volumes and a 23% rise in gross merchandise value, with quick commerce apps and brand websites driving the growth. FMCG, home decor, beauty, and health categories were top performers, with tier II and III cities accounting for 55% of total orders. Faster delivery times and a shift towards digital transactions were also observed.
Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is expected to become one of the world's leading urban economies by 2047, with a projected GDP of $1.2-1.5 trillion and a population of 3.6-3.8 crore. The MMRDA has outlined a long-term plan for sustainable and inclusive growth, positioning MMR alongside global economic hubs like Tokyo, London, and Singapore. The plan aims to achieve a GDP of Rs 25 lakh crore by
India is experiencing a surge in local defence manufacturing, resulting in a rise in orders for both public and private sector companies. The industry is entering a prosperous phase with a Rs 10 lakh crore pipeline and a 15-year defence roadmap. Collaboration between public and private companies, including Hindustan Aeronautics, Larsen and Toubro, and Tata Advanced Systems
Gagan Biyani, co-founder of Udemy, shares his joy in celebrating Diwali in the US and expresses gratitude for the acceptance and curiosity shown by Americans towards the festival. He reflects on the contrast of his childhood where Diwali was not widely recognized, to the present day where even a 4-year-old neighbor eagerly wants to join in.
The Lokpal of India, responsible for preventing corruption, has sparked controversy by initiating the purchase of seven luxury BMW cars through a public tender. Each car costs Rs 70 lakh and will be used for training and transportation of top officials. Critics argue that this move misuses public funds and questions the necessity of the Lokpal institution.
The viral Group 7 trend, created by musician Sophia James to promote her new song, has taken over the internet. Through dividing viewers into groups and experimenting with the algorithm, James proved that success on social media cannot be guaranteed. This trend has become an "inside joke" and a "pride" among users, with even Netflix using it to promote its shows.
India's coal import dropped by 0.6% in August, continuing a trend of decline in the April-August period compared to the same period last fiscal year. Non-coking coal imports saw a significant decrease, while coking coal imports remained relatively stable. The CEO of mjunction services predicts a subdued demand for coal in the current fiscal year
In a 7-minute dramatic heist at the iconic Louvre museum of Paris, thieves brazenly stole eight timeless jewels but left one massive diamond worth an estimated $60 million untouched in its case, and it's said to be cursed.
BLACKPINK, the popular South Korean girl group, is making a highly anticipated comeback after their explosive debut in 2016. Their agency, YG Entertainment, has confirmed that preparations for a new album and music video are underway. Fans are eagerly awaiting their return after the group's last project in 2022 and successful solo releases from members.
Thamma, the newest addition to the MHCU, stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna in a unique romantic comedy with horror elements. Early reviews on X applaud the actors' performances and the thrilling twists in the second half. With a projected opening week earnings of Rs 30-40 crores, the film offers a perfect blend of humor and thrills for audiences."
Muhurat Trading, a one-hour session on Diwali, has cultural and market significance. It marks the start of the Hindu Samvat Year and is believed to bring prosperity. This year, it will be held in the afternoon instead of the evening, serving as a sentiment indicator for the upcoming quarter.
The 46th Blue Dragon Film Awards nominees list has been released, with veteran talents like Lee Byung Hun and new entries like Park Jinyoung making the cut. Lee Byung Hun is a top contender for Best Actor, while Park Jinyoung has been nominated for Best New Actor despite his K-drama background. The awards ceremony, set for 2025, also includes nominations for Best Supporting Actor and Actress.
During a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Australian reporter Latika M Bourke, an India-born woman, asked Trump about his stance on Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump responded with a dismissive and aggressive tone, shutting down Bourke's question. This exchange came on the same day as Trump sealed a rare earths deal with Australia.
Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov took a jab at the recent brazen robbery at the Louvre Museum, calling it a sign of France’s decline. His comments came amid reports claiming that the stolen priceless gems may never be recovered, as French experts believe it is highly likely the pieces will be sold for a fraction of their value and smuggled out of France.
China has filed a complaint against India's Production Linked Incentive schemes for advanced chemistry cell battery, automobiles, and electric vehicles at the WTO, alleging that they violate global trade rules and discriminate against Chinese goods. If consultations don't resolve the issue, China can request a panel to rule on it. This comes as China aims to increase its electric exports.
Several banks across the country will be closed from October 21 to 23 due to various festivals, including Diwali and Bhai Dooj. Bank holidays vary from state to state, with online banking and ATMs still functioning. Fourth Saturday and Sunday will also see bank closures. Chhath Puja and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's birth anniversary will result in bank closures in certain regions.
The 1-hour special market session for Diwali will take place today on both NSE and BSE, with MCX also participating. All trades will have regular settlement obligations. The session will start at 1:45 pm and end at 2:45 pm, with a cut-off time for position limit and trade modification at 2:55 pm. October 22 will be a trading holiday for all exchanges.
The Indian economy has shown resilience despite global uncertainty and weak external demand, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals. High-frequency indicators suggest a revival in urban and rural demand. Inflation has moderated, and domestic structural reforms are offsetting the impact of external conditions. The rupee has depreciated and foreign investment remains negative
British chess prodigy of Indian origin, Bodhana Sivanandan, has added a new record to her growing achievements. The 10-year-old has become one of the youngest players ever to defeat a former world champion. The feat came during the European Club Cup in Rhodes, Greece, where she defeated Ukraine’s former Women’s champion, Grandmaster Mariya Muzychuk.
Google's former CEO, Eric Schmidt, has been accused by his ex-girlfriend of stalking, abuse, and digital surveillance. The couple's legal battle over money, a failed AI startup, and a Bel Air mansion made headlines in 2024. However, the domestic violence restraining order was withdrawn in January after a settlement was reached, with Schmidt making significant payments to his ex-girlfriend.
America’s visa system is notoriously complex, and Priyanka Kulkarni knows it better than most. The 34-year-old machine learning scientist spent nine years juggling the visa process herself. Now, she’s using artificial intelligence to help others handle work-based immigration smoothly and hassle-free.
Indian markets open for special Muhurat trading session on October 21, investors bet on long-term investment ideas. Asian markets rally on positive cues from US-China trade talks and prospects of new Japanese prime minister. US markets close higher, gold prices near record highs, crude oil prices fall. FIIs and DIIs net buyers in recent trade.
The White House has begun construction on a $250 million ballroom, despite lacking approval from the federal agency overseeing such projects. Photos show demolition work on the East Wing, where the first lady's offices are located. The project, which Trump says will be privately funded, will be the largest structural change to the Executive Mansion since the Truman Balcony was added in 1948.
The day after Diwali, Delhi woke up under a thick layer of smog, with air quality dropping to the ‘very poor’ category. The average AQI stood at 346 at 5:30 am on Tuesday, raising serious health concerns across the National Capital Region (NCR).
New guidance from the USCIS clarifies that the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee will not apply to foreign nationals changing their status within the US. The fee will only be applicable to new petitions filed for beneficiaries outside the country. This update brings much-needed clarity amid the controversy surrounding Trump's proclamation.
Gold prices edged higher on Tuesday to hover near all-time highs, as strong safe-haven demand and hopes of further interest rate cuts from the U.S. Federal Reserve boosted demand for the precious metal.FUNDAMENTALS* Spot gold was up 0.2% at $4,363.58 per ounce, as of 0106 GMT, having hit a record high of $4,381.21 on Monday.
Japan's Nikkei share gauge continued its record run on Tuesday, ahead of a parliamentary vote expected to confirm fiscal dove Sanae Takaichi as the nation's next prime minister.