The Centre is considering reintroducing MDR on UPI transactions over Rs 2,000 for large merchants to cover increasing operational costs. The proposed MDR will not exceed 0.5% and smaller businesses with an annual turnover of up to Rs 1.5 crore may be exempt. A decision is expected in a month, despite industry body PCI's plea to reconsider the zero-MDR policy.
The Indian government aims to raise the country's food processing level to 25% by 2031, leading to increased value addition, exports, and investments. Plans for a national processing mission or PLI scheme are in the works, along with the creation of a 'Bharat' brand to promote Indian processed foods globally. The focus should shift from production to value creation and improving nutrition.
Brakes India and Wheels India's first shipment to the UK after CETA boosts confidence in European market for Indian automotive industry. UK currently accounts for 3% of exports, expected to rise with new deal. Indian auto component industry competitive in global supply chain, with $1,370 million trade deficit. Preparing for electric vehicle transition and promoting localization.
Kharif crop sowing down by 16% due to delayed monsoon, only 48% of normal acreage covered. Agriculture Minister prepares contingency plans for deficient districts. Cumulative rainfall below average, with June at 40% deficit and July at 4% above benchmark. Wide productivity gap in crops, with focus on quality.
AI is rapidly transforming business strategy and product development, but the reliability of AI systems depends on the quality of data. IDC projects that AI spending in India will grow significantly, highlighting the need for trusted, high-quality data. Data governance is now seen as an enabler of intelligent operations, providing visibility, traceability, and accountability for AI systems.
The power ministry is collaborating with stakeholders to ensure energy security for data centre developers. A proposed roadmap will align investments with transmission expansion, discom readiness, and green power availability. Plans for reliable power, dual-grid connectivity, and grid stability are being evaluated to support the expected surge in data centre capacity, driven by the rise of AI.
SBI Funds Management's IPO, the biggest public issue of the year, was subscribed 41.66 times, with bids worth over Rs 3 lakh crore. Retail participation was high, while QIBs bid for 140.11 times the reserved shares. Domestic financial institutions and foreign institutional investors were major bidders.
The June quarter saw a significant decrease in new project announcements, with only 663 projects compared to an average of 1,370 in the previous twelve quarters. Private sector investments in data centers and nuclear plants dominated, while the government sector and electricity and information technology sectors also saw changes.
Suzuki is preparing to launch its new entry-level electric vehicle, based on the Vision e-Sky concept, which will have a similar size as the Maruti Suzuki S-Presso. The production model will have updated exterior features and a spacious interior. The release date has been delayed, but it is expected to have a 20-25 kWh battery and a range of 270 km. Its availability is uncertain.
Indian government increases export taxes on diesel and aviation fuel by ₹7 per litre, starting July 16, due to US-Iran tensions and possible supply disruptions. Goal is to keep more fuel in domestic market with high global prices. Regular review and adjustment based on market conditions.
The Cabinet has approved a new policy to attract investment in gas-based urea plants, aiming to eliminate import shortfall. It offers a minimum return on equity of 12% with a cap of 16% and addresses currency risk by converting fixed costs into rupees after four years.
Power ministry proposes tougher fuel-economy regime for passenger vehicles from April 2027, with declining targets and incentives for alternative fuels and fuel-saving technologies. Compliance will be assessed in two blocks, with super credits for cleaner vehicles and a credit-and-debit system.
Mahindra & Mahindra's Chakan manufacturing facility in Maharashtra has produced over three million vehicles, including the new BE 6 electric SUV. The plant, which started in 2009, has improved its production efficiency and is environmentally sustainable with advanced technologies and renewable energy sources. The facility's latest million units were manufactured in just 27 months.
ISRO tightens rules for resignations and voluntary retirements from senior scientific and technical personnel working on national missions, including Gaganyaan. Requests will now require a higher-level review by the Department of Space due to concerns about the impact on crucial projects. This comes as ISRO faces competition for specialized talent from private space companies.
Market experts and fund managers are split on investing in large or mid-cap stocks due to market volatility caused by geopolitical tension, rising oil prices, and fluctuations in the rupee. Some believe in the value gap of large caps, while others see potential in high-growth midcaps. A balanced strategy of value buys and growth opportunities is advised.
Soccer superstar Lionel Messi has reached a billion-dollar fortune through his savvy investments in real estate and hospitality. His MiM Hotels brand, known for its personalized touch and exclusive amenities, has expanded to six properties in Spain and Andorra. With additional ventures in restaurants, wine, and real estate, Messi's net worth has skyrocketed.
The Chipko Movement, revived in Uttarakhand, protests against the widening of Dehradun-Rishikesh National Highway, fearing the loss of 4,000 Sal trees and damage to the environment and wildlife. NHAI claims to have measures in place, but locals and activists argue that development must not harm forests.
India's first consumer commission decision on E20 petrol rollout has set a precedent for manufacturer liability and consumer protection. The court has directed Maruti Suzuki and the dealer to replace a vehicle owner's car with a new E20-compatible one or refund the entire purchase price within 45 days.
Himachal Pradesh is implementing a new industrial policy focused on a defence industrial corridor, green industries, and local product-based manufacturing. The policy aims to attract clean investment, create jobs, and increase state revenue. It also prioritizes environmentally sustainable infrastructure and stricter environmental regulations.
India's processed food market is set to hit $600 billion by 2030 due to increasing consumer demand, urbanization, and digital commerce. The report emphasizes the shift towards consumer-centric growth and the potential for growth as only 12% of food output is processed. Online sales and AI technology will drive this change.
Elon Musk, founder of Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, and Neuralink, manages to balance running multiple companies and spending time with his children through a strict scheduling method called the '5-minute rule.' This allows him to maximize efficiency, but comes with trade-offs such as long work hours and little breaks.
PM Modi is going to visit Chandigarh on July 17 to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for major infrastructure projects. Traffic restrictions and diversions are also in place to ensure smooth movement of VVIP convoy. Alternate routes advised, designated parking areas for guests.
HDFC AMC, a leading asset management company, reported its Q1FY27 earnings, prompting all three top brokerage houses - Motilal Oswal, Nuvama, and JM Financial - to reiterate their positive view on the stock. Motilal Oswal and JM Financial have the highest target price of Rs 3,300, suggesting an upside potential of 21%, while Nuvama has a target price of Rs 3,180.
Elon Musk has donated $5 million to support Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign for Ohio governor, boosting his political spending ahead of the closely watched 2026 US midterm elections, Bloomberg reported.
South Central Railway (SCR) has announced special train services between H.S. Nanded and Tiruchanur to manage increased travel demand and provide a more convenient and comfortable journey option. The special trains will offer additional connectivity between Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, with stoppages at important stations along the route.
Delhi HC orders daily medical monitoring of activist Sonam Wangchuk's health during hunger strike. Govt doctors must intervene, and authorities must engage in dialogue. Court stresses State's duty to protect life and health while respecting right to protest.
The Karnataka government has introduced the Karnataka Apartment Bill, 2026 to protect the interests of apartment owners and update outdated laws. The bill includes measures such as clearer ownership rights, a two-stage dispute resolution process, and a redevelopment framework. The CM has promised to consider public input and involve political parties.
Western Railway has introduced a special weekly train service between Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh to ease the travel rush. The train will run from Bandra Terminus to Azamgarh and cover important stations such as Surat, Vadodara, Ratlam, Kota, Tundla Junction, Subedarganj, and Banaras.
The SBI Funds Management IPO, India's largest asset management company, is closing its final day of bidding with strong demand from all investor categories. Analysts advise looking beyond subscription numbers, as the IPO offers long-term growth potential at a lower valuation compared to peers.
Uttar Pradesh government has finalised plans to roll out 16 Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Zones (SVPEIZ) in the first phase. The project will integrate skill development, employment generation, industry and entrepreneurship through a nine-region hub-and-spoke model. Each zone will offer skill training, plug-and-play infrastructure, and support for start-ups.
PM Modi is going to launch ₹25,000 Crore worth of infrastructure projects in Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh, including India's first hydrogen-powered train. These projects will enhance connectivity and boost economic growth. The Prime Minister's schedule includes inaugurating and laying foundation stones, flagging off the hydrogen train, and launching the Delhi-Amritsar expressway.
The monsoon in India is uneven, with more than half of the districts experiencing a deficit in rainfall. Jharkhand is the most affected state, with 96% of its districts facing a shortfall. While the national deficit has improved, many districts are still struggling, showing that the monsoon is patchy and inconsistent. Heavy rains are expected to intensify in eastern India.
IRCTC has launched a beta version of its revamped website with a cleaner interface, improved navigation, and a more modern design to enhance the ticket booking experience. Passenger can click on the beta website link available on the homepage of the existing IRCTC website. The beta version is now available for users to explore and provide feedback.
Patanjali Foods reassured investors that there were no undisclosed material events causing the recent sharp drop in share price. The stock plunged 20% and 87 million shares worth Rs 3,055 crore were traded. Graviton Research Capital was among the buyers, purchasing 9.34 million shares at Rs 351.51 apiece.
In May, net foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows turned negative after four months of being positive. Net FDI outflows were $0.1 billion, compared to $0.9 billion inflows a year ago. Net FDI inflows were at a five-year high of $6.6 billion in April, and for April-May, they were 160% higher year-on-year.
The Indian government has initiated the eighth round of auctions for 20 key mineral blocks, including rare earth elements, graphite, and lithium. These blocks will be auctioned online and are located in nine states. The government also plans to establish a coal exchange to improve market efficiency and mineral security. The launch of India Mining Week aims to promote the mining sector.
SBI Funds Management's IPO received strong demand on the second day, with a subscription of 2.77 times across all categories. Non-institutional investors showed the highest interest, followed by retail investors. Qualified institutional buyers also showed increased interest. Brokerages recommend subscribing to the issue, but warn of market volatility and regulatory changes as potential risks.
CLS, a subsidiary of DivyaSree Group, has introduced a new investment plan called HIP that allows retail investors to access professionally managed hospitality assets. The plan follows a build-sell-leaseback model with a long-term master lease and guarantees an 8.5% return.
India and the UK have seen a significant increase in trade, with $140 million worth of shipments leaving Indian shores for the UK on the day a new trade agreement, CETA, was implemented. The agreement aims to boost trade to $100 billion by 2030 and includes duty reductions for key export sectors.
US senators have proposed tariffs of up to 100% on major buyers of Russian oil, including India and China, which could threaten India's energy security and increase crude costs. Russian crude has become India's strongest energy security hedge, and any reduction in purchases would lead to higher prices and limited replacement options.
The Cabinet has approved the National Investment Policy for Urea-2026 to establish 8-9 new plants and eliminate imports. It will promote gas-based units, save Rs 250 crore per plant, and meet the demand for urea. This policy aims to increase self-sufficiency, reduce import reliance, generate jobs, and make the sector more sustainable.
India and the UK have signed a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) that eliminates duties for 99% of India's exports to the UK. The deal covers services, investment, and government procurement and has safeguards for sensitive sectors. It could serve as a model for future agreements, but its success will depend on implementation, simplicity, and dispute-resolution mechanisms.
The Union Cabinet has given the green light to two major manufacturing initiatives worth Rs 1.9 lakh crore. These programs, ISM 2.0 and MPMS, aim to boost India's self-reliance in chip production, attract investments of Rs 4 lakh crore, and generate production worth Rs 2 lakh crore.
India's stricter grid-discipline regulations, set to take effect in 2027, could reduce wind-project revenues by 48% and solar revenues by 11%, hindering the country's goal of reaching 500 GW of non-fossil power by 2030. This could also impact investor returns and impede the energy transition, causing concern among investors.
India's overall unemployment rate remained unchanged at 5.5% in June, but there was a significant increase in joblessness among the youth, particularly in urban areas. The urban and rural unemployment trends diverged, with urban unemployment rising to 6.6% while rural unemployment slowed slightly to 5.0%.
India's attempts to decrease gold imports have failed as the import bill rose by 47.1% in the first quarter of FY27. Despite higher import duty and a plea from PM Modi to limit purchases, domestic gold prices have negated the duty hike. In contrast, silver imports have dropped due to restrictions and delays in import quotas.
TMPV opposes BEE's proposal to sell compliance credits under the CAFE credit-debit mechanism, stating it would distort the credit market and discourage investment in cleaner vehicle technologies. They suggest BEE should only regulate, verify, and facilitate the credit market, while compliance credits should be left to automakers.
The Indian automobile industry saw a strong growth in June, with passenger vehicle sales rising by 24.1% and two-wheeler sales by 18.6%. Scooters outperformed motorcycles, while three-wheeler sales also remained strong. The industry is expecting a steady demand in the upcoming festive season, supported by lower vehicle prices, easier financing, and improving monsoon conditions.
Embraer, a Brazilian aircraft maker, is discussing a potential aircraft order with Alliance Air as the regional carrier deals with problems with its current fleet. The airline is looking at the E175 and E190-E2 from Embraer's E-Jet family, which has been certified for operations in India. This will enable regional airlines to use bigger planes and enhance connectivity to smaller cities.
US President Donald Trump surprised both America's Gulf allies and many of his own advisers when he announced a plan to charge a 20% toll on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The proposal triggered confusion inside the White House and concern across the Middle East before Trump abandoned the idea just a day later.