Indian equity indices BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 are expected to open positively on Friday, with GIFT Nifty trading higher and indicating a higher start for domestic indices. Key stocks to watch include Hindustan Zinc, Suzlon Energy, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, Hindustan Aeronautics, Vedanta, SpiceJet, Tata Steel, Hinduja Global Solutions, and Ola Electric.
India has the potential to increase exports to Russia by seven times if it can tap into the markets for food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and machinery. However, the current trade relationship is heavily reliant on oil, leading to a trade deficit. To boost exports, India and Russia must establish a modern rupee-rouble settlement system and improve ease of trade in competitive sectors.
The government's decision to reduce GST on micronutrient fertilisers from 12% to 5% has lowered production costs for small and marginal farmers, according to fertilizer minister JP Nadda. This reduction in taxes on critical raw materials and bio-pesticides will also promote sustainable and residue-free agriculture, while encouraging the adoption of precision agriculture techniques.
The Lok Sabha passed the Health Security and National Security Cess Bill, 2025, which will impose a dedicated cess on pan masala manufacturing units to fund national security and public health systems. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that the cess will be shared with states and will not affect GST revenues.
India and Russia have committed to strengthening economic ties until 2030 by removing trade barriers and promoting connectivity. They have signed an MoU for a urea plant and agreed to use national currencies for trade. Putin promised uninterrupted energy supplies and discussed a potential second nuclear power plant.
Equity benchmarks extend gains for second day, Nifty closes at 26,186.45, up 0.59%, Sensex at 85,712.37, up 0.52%. RBI cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25%, maintains neutral stance. Banks and financial services stocks lead rise. Nifty down 0.08% for the week, Sensex flat. Experts say rate cut and liquidity infusion will boost market confidence. Global markets
Air India surpassed IndiGo in the first week of December thanks to their timely adherence, moderate goals, and practical approach to new FDTL norms. IndiGo's extensive cancellations were due to their high utilization and insufficient staffing.
SEBI has banned Avadhut Sathe and his wife from the securities market and ordered the impounding of ₹546.16 crore for providing unregistered investment advice through their equity training venture. The couple is also restrained from offering any investment advisory or related training activities.
As the year ends, it's crucial to not only prioritize work and future plans, but also your employee benefits. Don't forget to use any remaining benefits, like LTA and paid leaves, before they expire. Other perks, such as telephone reimbursements and health check-ups, can also save you money. Make sure to review and understand your benefits before the year ends.
The NHCX is a digital platform that aims to simplify health insurance claims by uniting insurers and hospitals. Tapan Singhel, CEO of Bajaj General Insurance and chairman of General Insurance Council, believes that the common framework and NHCX will speed up claims and increase transparency.
Despite a 25-basis-point repo rate cut by RBI, banks are facing challenges in reducing deposit rates. Public sector banks will not change deposit rates immediately, but may cut them in January. The credit-deposit ratio is high, indicating strong credit demand and slow deposit growth.
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced measures to inject Rs 1.5 lakh crore into the system, including bond purchases and a USD/INR Buy Sell swap, to provide short-term relief to the bond market and support the rupee.
The rise of private labels and repertoire buying in India is changing consumer behavior, making brand loyalty a thing of the past. The growth of small and regional brands, D2C brands, and content creators are contributing to this shift. To adapt, marketers must utilize AI tools and implement a four-step shift towards continuous intelligence.
British American Tobacco (BAT) has sold a 9% stake in ITC Hotels for Rs 3,820 crore to reduce its debt. This is the third time in two years that BAT has sold its stake in ITC group companies. BAT CEO Tadeu Luiz Marroco clarified that the sale was not a strategic move and the funds will be used to support their debt reduction plan.
The bond market initially responded positively to the RBI's rate cut, but yields rose later due to profit booking. The 10-year benchmark bond yield fell to 6.45% before settling at 6.49%, down 2 basis points. Analysts predict this to be the final rate cut and the announced OMO amount was lower than expected. The governor also addressed concerns about bond transmission.
India and Russia condemn terrorism and call for global unity against it. They express their commitment to prevent and counter terrorism in all forms, including cross-border movement and financing. The two leaders also stress the need for firm implementation of UN resolutions and the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
Tax notice due to mismatch in ITR and AIS. Check AIS against bank statements or Form 26AS. If correct, file revised return by Dec 31, 2025. Pay advance tax by Dec 15 to avoid interest. Transferring mutual funds to brother not taxable. Ulip maturity proceeds taxable as capital gains if premium exceeds Rs 2.5 lakh or 10% of sum assured.
During his visit to India, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the importance of signing a preferential trade agreement between India and the Eurasian Economic Union. This agreement will boost trade and cooperation in areas like AI, with the goal of reaching $100 billion in trade by 2030. Putin urged for stronger ties through contracts and cooperation.
Term insurance plans with return of premium (TROP) provide life coverage and a potential return on premiums, making them appealing for those prioritizing stability over market-linked returns. They have higher premiums, approximately 1.8x to 2x regular term plans, due to the addition of a maturity benefit.
India and Russia reaffirmed their cooperation in the energy sector, specifically in civil nuclear energy, critical minerals, and clean energy. They discussed the construction of small modular and floating nuclear plants and the non-energy applications of nuclear technology.
IndiGo, India's biggest airline, is in crisis due to its aggressive high-utilization model and disregard for regulations. The recent chaos of over 1,900 cancelled flights has revealed the dangers of their lean playbook.
RBI revises growth forecast to 7.3% and lowers inflation expectations to 2%. MPC cuts policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 5.25% with a neutral stance. Economy in a "goldilocks period" of high growth and low prices, but external uncertainties pose risks. Decision welcomed by market, but economists express concerns.
SBI Research predicts 7% growth in India's GDP for Q3 and Q4 of FY2025-26, with an overall growth rate of 7.6%. The report also notes robust rural demand and recovering urban demand. RBI projects inflation for FY26 at 2%, lower than previous estimates, and GDP growth for FY27 at 7.3%. However, trade uncertainties may impact external demand. RBI cuts repo rate to 5.25% and maintains neutral stance.
Google's 'Year in Search' feature revealed the most searched movies of 2025, ranging from old classics to new releases and spanning various genres and languages. These movies, such as Saiyaara, Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1, Coolie, War 2, Sanam Teri Kasam, Marco, Housefull 5, Game Changer, Mrs, and Mahavatar Narsimha, captured the audience's imagination.
Aequs Ltd, a contract manufacturing firm specializing in consumer durable goods and aerospace parts, saw its initial public offering (IPO) receive an overwhelming response, with 101.63 times subscription on the closing day of the share sale. The IPO, which was priced at Rs 118-124 per share, garnered bids for 4,27,13,15,160 shares against 4,20,26,913 shares on offer.
PM Modi announced free 30-day e-tourist visa and Group Tourist Visa for Russian travellers, simplifying and removing cost barriers. India and Russia signed agreements to raise bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 and increase exchanges between students, scholars, and sportspersons. This follows the inauguration of two new Indian consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan.
Meesho's IPO receives overwhelming response, subscribed 79.02 times on the third day of share sale. The company has received bids for 21,96,29,80,305 shares against 27,79,38,446 shares on offer. Non-institutional investors show the highest interest with 38.15 times subscription, followed by retail investors at 19.04 times and qualified institutional buyers at 120.18 times.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India marks the launch of RT India, a state-funded television network aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries and expanding their global influence. The studio will have a team of over a hundred and provide objective coverage of Russian-Indian relations.
RBI provides $16 billion liquidity support, conducts OMO and forex swaps to boost banking sector. Economists predict more liquidity infusion and better portfolio transmission. MPC unanimously cuts repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25% and maintains neutral stance. GDP forecast revised to 7.3% for FY26, inflation projection lowered to 2%. RBI allows rupee to determine its own value.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dazzled at the opening night of the 5th annual Red Sea Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, wearing a stunning Dolce & Gabbana gown. She was seen mingling with stars from across the globe, including Dakota Johnson, who gushed about her visit to India and the Maha Kumbh.
Indian Railways has introduced various measures to enhance passenger experience, including simplifying online ticket booking and redeveloping stations. The Railway Minister also shared that special provisions have been made for senior citizens, women, and persons with disabilities, such as automatic lower berth allotment and designated quotas.
The Indian government is taking steps to reduce reliance on China for speciality fertilisers by turning to alternative suppliers in Belgium, Egypt, Germany, Morocco, and the United States. Minister Anupriya Patel emphasizes the importance of self-reliance through indigenous technologies and initiatives such as Soil Test-Based Fertiliser Recommendations and Site-Specific Nut.
Delhi is hosting a range of exciting events this weekend, such as the AP Dhillon concert, Delhi Comic Con, and Saras Food Festival. There will also be opportunities for shopping and outdoor experiences at the Winter at the Lawns fair and Christmas Earth Mela.
AI risk expert Stuart Russell warns of the potential job uncertainty in the age of artificial intelligence, with AI taking over professional work and even potentially replacing CEOs. He believes that companies are prioritizing profits over human life, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai acknowledges the potential for job displacement.
Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar has received a fantastic response from the audience, who are calling it a must-watch and praising Ranveer's career-best performance. The film, directed by Aditya Dhar, has already earned Rs 6 crore in its domestic release and is expected to be a huge success despite its high budget and break-even target.
Indian equity benchmarks closed higher on Friday after the Reserve Bank of India cut the repo rate by 25 bps to 5.25%. The Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex ended the day higher, but closed the week on a lower note. The Nifty Bank settled higher, while mid-cap stocks closed on a higher note. In today's market action, 1,335 stocks advanced, 1,769 declined, and 88 remained unchanged.
Radhika Gupta, the managing director and CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund, sparked a debate on Indian social media with her tweet about the rising cost of education in the US. She highlighted the impact of currency depreciation and inflation on education expenses and advised people to factor these in when planning for their financial future.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline and most-travelled low-cost carrier, is struggling to cope with the new flight duty rules. Over the past few days, hundreds of flights have been delayed or cancelled. On Wednesday alone, about 200 flights were cancelled. The numbers crossed the 300 mark on Thursday and are still rising.
Over 17 lakh deceased voters and 6 lakh missing voters have been found in the electoral rolls of Gujarat during the ongoing SIR drive. Additionally, 30 lakh permanent migrants and 3.25 lakh "repeated" voters have been identified. These discrepancies highlight the administrative difficulties faced in the SIR process. The death of a Booth Level Officer has further complicated the situation.
The 2025 Melon Music Awards nominees have been revealed, featuring both K-pop and American pop artists. The Top 10 winners have been announced, with the final Grand Prize winner to be chosen from this list. Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, and Justin Bieber are nominated for Best Pop Artist. Stay tuned for updates on this highly anticipated event.
Enforcement Directorate attaches assets worth Rs 1,120 crore in alleged money laundering probe against Anil Ambani's Reliance Group companies. Properties, bank balances, and shareholdings of the group have been provisionally attached under PMLA. The ED alleges large-scale diversion of public money through mutual fund investments and Yes Bank lending.
18-year-old Arvid Lindblad, a British-Swedish driver of Indian descent, has joined Red Bull's Racing Bulls squad, making him one of the youngest drivers in Formula 1. With a successful karting career starting at age five and multiple championship wins, Lindblad has impressed F1 officials with his maturity and talent.
India and Russia's 23rd annual summit will witness major announcements and partnerships. Russian investors can now invest in Indian stock market through First India mutual fund, based on Nifty50 Index. The Index has shown a 2.3% return in the past month and a 5.65% surge in the past year. NSE and Sberbank are focused on improving their collaboration.
Finance author Robert Kiyosaki has posted a new warning about a global recession he believes will begin in 2026. In a long message shared on X, the Rich Dad Poor Dad author said recent job losses are an early sign of what’s coming, and urged people to start preparing now.
FM Sitharaman to present a new bill to increase funds for national security and public health. The bill includes a 40% cess on pan masala and will be presented in the upcoming Winter Session. Parliament has also approved a bill to increase duties on cigarettes, with the revenue to be shared with states.
"Dhurandhar, the highly anticipated spy thriller directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, has been receiving rave reviews from early viewers. With a gripping storyline, intense action sequences, and stellar performances from the ensemble cast, including Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna, R Madhavan, and Arjun Rampal, the film is being hailed as one of the best Bollywood movies of the year.
A video from Las Vegas showing a woman arguing with an Uber driver has gone viral on social media. The argument appeared to have started when the driver claimed the passenger had been at the wrong pickup point for 10 minutes, which caused a delay.
Rahul Gandhi blames the Indian government's monopoly model for the widespread cancellations of IndiGo flights, causing chaos and inconvenience for passengers. The airline is facing multiple problems, including crew shortage and technical issues, resulting in a significant decrease in operations. Gandhi stresses the importance of fair competition in all industries.
IndiGo's mass cancellation of flights has led to chaos with over 400 flights cancelled on Friday and a record-breaking 550 on Thursday. The airline plans to resume normal operations by February 10, 2026, but cancellations continue to rise, causing delays and frustration for passengers across multiple cities in India.
Dozens of delivery riders from India, China, and Bangladesh were arrested in a week-long operation by the UK's Immigration Enforcement teams. The crackdown, called "Operation Equalize," aims to reduce illegal migration and is supported by the government and delivery companies. The workers are facing deportation for working illegally in various sectors.
HSSC has announced the CET 2025 Group C exam results, with 13 lakh candidates taking the July exams. The official website displays scorecards with important details like total marks, category-wise cut-off, and roll number. Shortlisted candidates will move on to post-specific assessments and document verification.