Investors should keep an eye on stocks as the India-Pakistan ceasefire brings calm and Q4 earnings season heats up. The Sensex and Nifty saw significant gains in the previous session, with strong buying in IT, financials, Adani Group, and power stocks. Key stocks to watch include Paytm, Tata Steel, Gensol Engineering, Bajaj Electricals, Allied Blenders, Reliance Power, and Carborundum Universal.
Kotak Mahindra Bank is set to release its Q2FY26 results on October 24. Analysts expect the bank to deliver a stable quarter, with a focus on NIMs, growth outlook, and asset quality. Axis Securities and InCred Equities anticipate a pickup in growth and outperformance in margins, while Anand Rathi predicts a 7% increase in NII and 3.6% rise in PAT.
India's IT hiring landscape in the first half of FY26 has seen a 25% rise in campus intake and a 27% increase in demand for engineering, technical, and AI profiles. Companies are prioritising skill depth and adopting a "train-then-hire" approach to bridge the talent gap in AI and cloud roles. Quality-led and demand-synced workforce planning is being emphasized to ensure market-ready talent.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a record-breaking Diwali sales of Rs 6.05 lakh crore, driven by GST rate cuts and high demand for 'swadeshi' products. This marks a 25% increase from last year's festive sales and is the highest-ever in India's trading history. Mainline retail accounted for 85% of sales, and reduced GST rates significantly improved price competitiveness.
Faqeer, also known as Rishabh Tandon, a talented singer-actor, passed away at the age of 35 due to a heart attack while celebrating Diwali with his family in Delhi. He had been taking care of his father's health and had recently made a comeback to the industry after a 10-year break. His unexpected death has left his loved ones and fans devastated.
Delhi’s air quality plummeted to the “very poor” category last week and worsened on Diwali, with an average AQI of 345 recorded, according to CPCB data. However, many were left scratching their heads on Tuesday when global media citing IQAir, reported pollution levels shooting past 2,000
PNB's MD & CEO, Ashok Chandra, expects a 10-15 bps NIM improvement by Q4, driven by green shoots in private capex and margin recovery. The bank anticipates minimal impact from ECL norms and sees GST cuts driving retail and MSME lending. PNB's recoveries have outpaced slippages for 6-7 quarters, leading to a strong recovery of Rs 3,900 crore. The bank's subsidiaries are also performing well
Kangana Ranaut's Diwali 2025 celebrations have taken social media by storm, with her traditional Patola saree and lavishly decorated home stealing the show. The Internet is buzzing with inquiries about the designer who worked on her century-old Delhi residence, which seamlessly blends heritage with modern design.
The Antwerp Court of Appeal has approved the extradition of Mehul Choksi to India for his involvement in the PNB fraud case. The court dismissed Choksi's claims of political motivation and ill-treatment, stating that India has provided detailed assurances. The alleged offences are punishable under both Indian and Belgian law, satisfying the principle of dual criminality.
President Droupdi Murmu's helicopter caused a portion of the newly constructed helipad in Pramadam, Kerala, to cave in upon landing. Officials were caught on video pushing the tilted helicopter out. Due to bad weather, the President had to travel to Pamba by road instead of the originally planned location. The decision to land at the stadium was a last-minute one.
Reliance Industries' Q2 earnings show a strong emphasis on retail and quick commerce, with 600 dark stores and 3,000 physical stores added. BNP Paribas predicts this will drive future growth, supported by a 19% revenue increase and 200% surge in quick commerce orders. Expansion into tier-2 and tier-3 cities, new brand launches, and wider distribution have also contributed to the company's success.
HDFC vs ICICI Bank: Q2 FY26 results show strong loan growth and resilient asset quality. HDFC Bank eyes margin recovery in Q3 FY26, while ICICI Bank sustains steady NIM and profitability. Brokerages stay bullish, calling both among the best private bank stocks to buy in 2025 as the HDFC Bank vs ICICI Bank battle intensifies in H2 FY26.
Three men, linked to gangster Rohit Godara, have claimed responsibility for shooting Punjabi singer Teji Kahlon in Canada. They issued a warning on social media, stating that this was just the beginning and they were willing to go to extreme measures, even potentially ending the singer's life. The three gang members involved are Mahendar Saran Dilana, Rahul Rinau, and Vicky Phalwan.
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist, will appear in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi Season 2 alongside lead actress Smriti Irani to promote awareness about maternal and newborn health. This collaboration is fitting as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation focuses on these causes. Gates has also made cameos in shows like Frasier.
Director Farah Khan and actor Raghav Juyal had a chat on Farah's vlog, praising Aryan Khan's directorial debut and discussing Bollywood's current trends. They also talked about Juyal's rise from a background dancer to a TV star after his success in a Netflix series. Khan acknowledged Aryan as her worthy successor and his directorial skills were praised.
India and the US are close to reaching a trade agreement, with the US potentially lowering tariffs on Indian imports from 50% to 15-16%. This is in exchange for India reducing its reliance on Russian oil and easing restrictions on US corn and soymeal imports. India may also advise state-run oil companies to diversify their crude sourcing towards the US.
White House official Steven Cheung criticized ex-press secretary Jen Psaki for her recent comments about Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha. Cheung called Psaki a "dumbass" and accused her of projecting her own issues onto others.
Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has offered to fund the development of 10-15 roads in Bengaluru, drawing praise from Rajya Sabha MP P Chidambaram. He suggested a governance model where a contractor will execute the work, while a supervising company or industrialist, like Mazumdar-Shaw, would be responsible for the quality and timely execution of public works.
The government shutdown has caused staffing issues in air traffic control, resulting in delays at Houston and Newark airports. Communication issues and absences from controllers have caused over 5,800 flights to be delayed. There are concerns for the well-being of unpaid controllers and TSA officers. The FAA is struggling with a shortage of controllers.
Malala Yousafzai's new book, 'Finding My Way', has been praised for its honest portrayal of her life beyond activism. In an interview with Jimmy Fallon, she reveals her age, transformation from teenage activist to married woman, and battle with mental health. The book shows a more relatable and 'normal' side of her, while still emphasizing her commitment to girls' education.
A man crashed into the White House security gate during Diwali celebrations hosted by President Trump. The driver was arrested by the US Secret Service.
Thamma and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat have taken the box office by storm on their opening day, with Thamma becoming Ayushmann Khurrana's biggest opener and Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat grossing Rs 8.50 crore. While Thamma received praise for its horror-comedy genre and surprise appearances, Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat was labelled a 'must-watch' by Elvish Yadav for its impressive dialogues and
Hong Kong authorities are planning to reopen the runway where a cargo plane, operated by ACT Airlines and leased by Emirates, crashed and killed two workers. However, the runway will not be used until the wreckage is cleared. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing as the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder have not been retrieved.
The Trump administration is launching a new investigation into drug pricing practices of US trading partners, potentially leading to tariffs. This Section 301 investigation will determine if these countries are underpaying for drugs, while US patients currently pay the most. Trump has previously threatened a 100% tariff on imported drugs and is pressuring pharmaceutical companies to lower prices.
Midwest, a leading company in the mining and construction industry, has successfully completed its IPO and will be listed on Indian bourses on October 24. The IPO was oversubscribed by 92.36 times, with strong demand from all investor categories. The company plans to use the Rs 451 crore raised for future growth, despite a slight decrease in the grey market premium.
Legendary comedian Asrani, famous for his roles in Sholay and Chhoti Si Baat, died at 84 due to breathing issues and fluid in his lungs. His final wish for a private funeral was granted after his cremation.
IMD has issued a cyclone alert for Tamil Nadu, predicting heavy rainfall from October 22-25. Chennai has already experienced up to 100 mm of rain in a day, with more expected in the coming days. Schools are shut and fishermen have been cautioned as the state prepares for potential flooding. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has initiated flood preparedness measures.
Amid US President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, the Indian government is currently working on a new scheme focused on bringing back Indian-origin “star faculty” and researchers currently based abroad, according to The Indian Express.
Zohran Mamdani, a NYC mayoral candidate, has been vocal about his criticism of Indian PM Narendra Modi. He owns up to past controversial statements, emphasizing his vision of a diverse India. As a potential mayor, he feels responsible for the safety and celebration of all New Yorkers, despite differing views.
After 24 years, the NBA has returned to NBC with the 2025-26 season opener between the Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets, and the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. The game started late, causing a buzz on social media, but fans were thrilled to hear the iconic "Roundball Rock" theme song again. The delay and theme song brought about discussions and excitement among fans.
The Karnataka High Court has ordered Bengaluru police to stop harassing Ola founder and employee over alleged abetment of suicide. The deceased employee's 28-page suicide note mentions mental harassment and financial distress. The company, however, denies workplace harassment and any financial exploitation.
Nuvama Institutional Equities maintains a ‘Hold’ rating on UltraTech Cement with a target price of Rs 13,982, indicating a potential upside of 13%. Despite steady operational performance and expansion plans, rising costs and near-term pressures limit immediate upside. Q2FY26 saw 7% volume growth and steady demand, but realisations were under pressure.
Gold prices fell on Wednesday due to easing U.S.-China trade tensions and profit-taking from investors after a record-breaking rally. Despite the drop, gold is still up 56% this year, reaching an all-time peak of $4,381.21. Analysts believe this is just a technical repositioning and dips will likely be bought. Investors are now waiting for U.S. inflation data and the Fed's interest rate decision.
President Trump refuses to meet with Democratic leaders until the government shutdown is over. Democrats are demanding an extension for the Affordable Care Act in a stopgap funding bill, while Republicans are considering extending the bill past its November 21 deadline. The Senate needs Democratic support to pass the bill.
France’s Louvre Museum was brazenly looted in broad daylight on October 19, with thieves escaping with eight crown jewels worth billions. On Tuesday, a Paris prosecutor estimated the stolen jewellery to be worth €88 million ($102 million), according to the Associated Press.
FBI Director Kash Patel celebrated Diwali with President Trump in the Oval Office, surrounded by fellow Indian-American officials. Patel praised Trump for his leadership and hospitality, while the president welcomed CEOs and promised to increase investments in the US. Trump also extended warm wishes to Indian Prime Minister Modi and described Diwali as a triumph of good over evil.
PM Narendra Modi thanked US President Donald Trump for his warm Diwali wishes and phone call, expressing hope for the two democracies to continue illuminating the world with hope and standing united against terrorism. Trump hosted Diwali celebrations at the White House. However, tensions have risen between the two countries over trade and Trump's growing ties with Pakistan.
Nuvama Institutional Equities has given PN Gadgil Jewellers a 'Buy' rating with a target price of Rs 860 due to their promising growth prospects, ambitious expansion plans, and predicted increase in profitability. The company's dominant presence in Maharashtra, ambitious expansion into new regions, and emphasis on high-margin studded jewellery are key factors driving Nuvama's recommendation.
WinTrack Inc., which said it has halted its operations in India after alleging bribery demands from customs officials, has now highlighted a case of an entrepreneur. The man, Sanjay Kumar Sharma, was allegedly harassed by a customs officer at Delhi Airport over the samples he was carrying. The officer demanded that he show the receipt of the samples he was carrying.
An American Airlines flight operated by SkyWest Airlines made an emergency landing in Nebraska after the pilots mistook flight attendants banging on the cockpit door for a possible security breach. The plane had travelled only 40 miles before turning back. SkyWest and the FAA issued statements apologising for the inconvenience and explaining that there was a problem with the interphone system.
Residents of Delhi woke up once again on Wednesday morning to a thick layer of smog suffocating the city. The air quality has continued to drop since the Diwali celebrations, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 345 at 5:30 am on October 22, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Nellore District Collector directs officials to prepare for heavy rainfall and evacuate people from low-lying areas. Schools and Anganwadi centers to remain closed on October 22. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin reviews situation in state with several districts under orange and yellow alerts for next four days. Control room set up to monitor the situation.
Tamil film Dude, starring Pradeep Ranganathan, has become a global hit with a box office collection of over Rs 65 crore in just four days. Its strong opening day of Rs 9.75 crore has led to a weekend jump and a total of Rs 41 crore in Tamil Nadu alone. Ranganathan's past films, like Dragon and Love Today, have also been successful, cementing his position as a top filmmaker.
Maddock Films' latest horror-comedy, Thamma, had a successful opening day at the box office, earning Rs 24 crore. Despite low initial occupancy rates, the film picked up in the afternoon and became Ayushmann Khurrana's biggest opener. It is also a top contender for Rashmika Mandanna's best movie and is expected to enter the top 10 for Khurrana.
Trump claims tariffs played a crucial role in averting eight wars, including the recent escalation between India and Pakistan. He asserts that trade and tariffs are a matter of national security and have made the US a wealthy country, enabling it to support defence and global security initiatives.
The Election Commission of India has released guidelines for the Bihar elections, prohibiting political parties and candidates from publishing print media advertisements on the day of polling and one day prior without pre-certification. Pre-certification must be sought two days in advance, and flying squads are enforcing the Model Code of Conduct.
Walmart Inc. has decided to pause job offers for H-1B visa holders, according to a new Bloomberg report. The company, which is also the largest private employer in the United States, took this step in response to the Trump administration’s newly imposed hefty fee on employers hiring H-1B candidates.
US President Donald Trump is optimistic about the upcoming trade deal with China and plans to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in two weeks. He also highlighted ongoing tariff discussions and warned that a steep tariff of up to 155 per cent could be imposed if a deal is not reached. Trump also announced additional tariffs and export controls on China.
President Trump's nominee for the federal watchdog agency, Paul Ingrassia, withdrew his nomination following accusations of a "Nazi streak" and derogatory comments about Black holidays. Senate Majority Leader John Thune urged the White House to withdraw the nomination, a rare move in a Republican-controlled Senate.
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.