The Central government has ruled out any immediate reduction in GST rates, stating that changes are decided by the GST Council and a GoM is still working on rate rationalisation. No decision has been made on the percentage or timeline for reduction. This clarification comes amidst rising demands for tax relief due to inflationary pressures.
President Trump plans to send National Guard troops to Memphis, Tennessee to address crime, despite falling crime rates in many cities. The Memphis Mayor did not request the deployment, but Trump claims the mayor is satisfied. Legal concerns arise over Trump's authority, but he threatens to do the same in other cities.
Coal ministry reviews 15% clause in viability gap funding for coal gasification projects, considering changes in funding model. Three categories of projects receive grants up to Rs 1,350 crore, Rs 1,000 crore, and Rs 100 crore respectively. Cross-ministry collaboration for by-product utilization being discussed. Ministry promoting gasification with Rs 8,500 crore incentive scheme.
Apollo Hospitals is acquiring a 31% stake in its subsidiary AHLL for ₹1,254 crore, making it a 99.42% subsidiary. The transaction is expected to close by November 2025, subject to CCI approval. This will allow Apollo to have more control and integration of AHLL's operations and invest in a new oncology center in Gurugram, aiming to double its oncology business in the near future.
AHPI, a hospital association representing 15,000 hospitals, has threatened to suspend cashless services for Star Health policyholders from September 22. This is due to ongoing issues, including refusal to revise tariffs and unjustified deductions. AHPI also accused Star Health of anti-competitive behavior and pointed out the high number of complaints against the insurer.
Infosys, India's second-largest IT company, has announced an Rs 18,000-crore share buyback, leading analysts to believe that other major IT firms like TCS and Wipro may also do the same. This move is expected to boost shareholder sentiment, as seen with Infosys' stock increasing by 5.6%.
PM Narendra Modi will visit Manipur after 2 years to lay the foundation stone of development projects worth Rs 8,500 crore and address public functions. The state previously faced ethnic violence between Kuki and Meitei communities, leading to 200 deaths. Opposition criticizes the delay, but PM's visit symbolizes the return of peace and development in Manipur.
India's automotive sector can become a world leader in manufacturing and supply chains, says Maruti Suzuki India's CEO. He emphasized the country's strengths in demand, talent, and policy support and urged industry players to invest in R&D, treat employees as partners, and improve maturity. Takeuchi also discussed the challenges and opportunities for India in the global automotive landscape.
The IT and IT-enabled services sector is facing a slowdown in hiring due to external and internal factors such as tariffs, global macroeconomic headwinds, and the impact of artificial intelligence. This is despite the overall job market remaining resilient, with a focus on value creation and specialised roles. However, there is still demand for technology and logistics-related roles.
India and the EU are working towards finalizing their Free Trade Agreement by the end of the year. The latest round of negotiations ended positively, with both sides showing willingness and determination. The agreement is crucial for both parties, as the EU is India's top trading partner and India is seeking preferential access for its exports.
PhysicsWallah, a 2016 edtech startup, is shifting its focus from online education to offline classrooms in 2025. This change is driven by the higher Arpu of offline students, which is ten times that of online students. To support this transition, the company plans to increase expenses for physical centers and acquisitions.
Food inflation in retail has been negative for three months at a rate of (-) 0.69% in August. The Consumer Food Price Index increased by 0.64%. Vegetable inflation improved to (-) 15.92%, while edible oil and fruit inflation stayed high. Pulses inflation decreased for the seventh month. Excessive rainfall in August could affect crop yields and prices.
Tata Group-owned Trent plans to add a new retail brand every 5 years to expand its presence in the fashion and lifestyle market. Despite a slower growth environment, the company reported a 20% topline growth rate in the June quarter, below its long-term target of 25%. Trent has launched Burnt Toast, Zudio Beauty, Utsa, and Samoh to tap into emerging categories, with a long runway for growth.
The Indian auto component industry is hopeful for improved relations with China, its largest source of imports. The domestic sector, valued at $80 billion, is expected to double by 2030. However, the industry is also facing challenges with higher US tariffs on exports. To counter this, strategic responses such as lowering GST and expanding access to other markets are being explored.
Human rights lawyer Hillel Neuer criticized Pakistan at a UNHRC meeting for condemning Israel's strikes on Hamas leaders in Qatar while harboring terrorists in its own capital. He also questioned Qatar's hosting of Hamas. Neuer also called out the UN chief and other countries for condemning Israel but praising the US for killing Osama bin Laden in Pakistan.
Shardiya Navratri, a nine-day festival in India, honors goddess Durga and her nine avatars. Fasting and consuming satvik foods are customary, with Durga Puja as the highlight. This year, Navratri will last for ten days, starting on September 22 and ending on October 2, with each day dedicated to a different form of Durga.
Study finds Indian automobile launches often delayed due to late design and engineering changes, causing issues for suppliers and increasing costs. Report suggests adopting flow-based execution, involving suppliers earlier, and structured triage of changes to reduce late changes by 20-30%.
The Supreme Court raised concerns about the firecracker ban only in Delhi-NCR, stating that clean air is a right for all citizens. They emphasized the need for a pan-India policy and expressed worries about pollution in other cities. The impact of the ban on festivals like Dussehra and Diwali was also discussed, with the court seeking a report from the Commission for Air Quality Management.
Experience the ultimate luxury dining at these extravagant restaurants around the world, where a meal can cost up to Rs 2 lakh per person. From immersive technology-enhanced meals to exclusive intimate seating and multi-course menus, these restaurants offer a truly unforgettable experience. Indulge in haute cuisine and Michelin-starred dishes from Spain to New York.
India continues to heavily import Russian oil in September, despite US scrutiny, due to contract lag and a need to balance discounted Russian grades with reliable Middle Eastern supplies. Adani's ban on sanctioned vessels at its ports could lead to a diversification of crude sourcing for refiners, but Russian barrels remain the most cost-effective option.
Sydney Sweeney's portrayal of boxer Christy Martin in a new film has sparked mixed reactions from fans. While some praise her transformation and dedication, others criticize her acting. The film also stars Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, and Katy O’Brian, and is set to release in November. Martin herself has praised Sweeney's talent, but some question if she is the right fit for the role.
Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was a creative thinker who loved walking. His biographer and designer Jony Ive both noted how they often had serious conversations while walking. Jobs believed walking boosted creativity and cognitive function, a notion confirmed by a neuroscientist.
Lawyers representing Karisma Kapoor's children and Sunjay Kapur's widow Priya Sachdev Kapur had a heated exchange during a hearing on the late industrialist's estate worth Rs 30,000 crore. A video of the Delhi HC hearing shows senior advocates shouting and accusing each other of interruptions. The dispute, involving allegations of a forged will, has been ongoing since Sunjay's death in June.
The Supreme Court rejected Kangana Ranaut's request to dismiss complaints against her for a post during the farmers' protest. The court said that her comments had intensified an existing post. Ranaut agreed to withdraw her plea, and the court granted it. The case involves a defamation complaint by an elderly woman who was likened to a protester in a retweet by Ranaut.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced plans to raise tariffs on Chinese goods, specifically automobiles, to stimulate the country's economy. This decision has been met with support from the automotive industry, but has also raised concerns about appeasing the US. Chinese officials are hopeful for cooperation, but data shows that China is Mexico's top car supplier.
Adani Enterprises, through its subsidiary Adani Road Transport Ltd, has acquired DP Jain TOT Toll Roads for Rs 1,342 crore. The toll road project, incorporated in May 2021 by D P Jain & Co Infrastructure, has a concession period of 20 years. Adani Enterprises reported a 14% YoY growth in total income and a 50% PAT growth in Q1 FY26. Adani Road Transport has a total of 8 under construction and 6
FBI Director Kash Patel is under scrutiny after the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. The suspect is still at large and Patel has faced criticism for prematurely announcing the suspect's arrest. The investigation has raised concerns about Patel's leadership and his alleged involvement in the firing of three FBI agents.
Former RBI Governor C Rangarajan criticized Trump's economic policies, emphasizing the need for easier trade and a global goal of freer trade. He highlighted the severe impact on Americans and mentioned India and Brazil as highly taxed nations. Rangarajan stressed the importance of collective efforts towards India's development.
India's death rate from chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and stroke has increased in the past decade, while most countries have seen a decline. The study, led by researchers at Imperial College London, found that this trend was more pronounced in women. The main causes of this rise were ischaemic heart disease and diabetes.
The DoT has questioned Jio and Airtel for removing their 1GB data plans, citing affordability issues. TRAI has been instructed to look into the matter as the plans were discontinued in August, despite being a major source of revenue for both companies. TRAI has the authority to intervene for the benefit of consumers.
A landslide in Upper Rimbi, West Sikkim kills four and leaves three missing. SSB, SDRF, and local police conduct rescue operations. MLA and state minister praise coordinated efforts. Search for missing persons ongoing as heavy rains hinder process. IMD issues alert for more rainfall. Officials urge relocation of vulnerable residents. Monsoon rains cause more disasters in Sikkim.
Delhi High Court has removed Sunjay Kapur's sister, Mandhira Kapur, as a party to the 3,000 crore inheritance battle for his estate. The court has directed Priya Kapur, Sunjay's wife, to submit details of his assets. Mandhira has expressed support for Karisma Kapoor and her children in their claim for a share of Sunjay's wealth.
Royal Enfield plans to release its first electric motorcycle, the Flying Flea C6, in 2022 and is also testing a fully-electric version of the Himalayan. Spy shots of the test mule in Ladakh highlight the difficulties of riding an EV in remote areas with limited charging options. The design of the Himalayan Electric is practical and influenced by rally bikes, featuring a 7-inch ECUMASTER dashboard.
Markets had a positive Friday with steady momentum in benchmark equities. NSE Nifty 50 and Sensex rose, while banking, midcap, and smallcap stocks saw brisk buying. Defence stocks like Bharat Electronics and Mazagon Dock surged, while Paras Defence and JBM Auto also saw significant gains.
Moto Morini has reduced the prices of their Seiemmezzo 650 models by Rs 91,000, bringing them down to Rs 4.29 lakh. This makes the retro street bike and scrambler models more affordable. The company is also offering extended loan tenures and covering up to 95 percent of the cost. This is the second price cut for the motorcycles, which were previously priced at Rs 6.99 lakh and Rs 7.10 lakh.
Nepal is facing widespread protests led by the youth against corruption and misgovernance. Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki is set to be sworn in as the Interim Prime Minister, with preparations already underway. She is seen as a non-partisan figure capable of restoring credibility and stability. The protests were triggered by a social media ban and have resulted in 34 deaths.
Jefferies, a global brokerage house, has recommended 5 top financial sector stocks including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Max Financial Services, Bajaj Finance, and Cholamandalam Finance. These stocks are expected to have strong earnings potential, improved asset quality, and a stable growth outlook. Jefferies has reiterated its 'Buy' tag for these stocks, with potential upside of up to 25%.
UTDB promised a lucrative deal for adventure tourism at George Everest Estate, with amenities like land, huts, cafe, museums, observatory, and helipad. But an investigation revealed that all bidders had a common shareholder, raising concerns of collusion. Officials deny any wrongdoing, citing transparency. The project is backed by Asian Development Bank.
The Kapoor family's inheritance battle has captured public interest, with rumors of reconciliation and leaked private conversations. Sunjay Kapoor, Karisma's ex-husband, reportedly aided their children in obtaining Portuguese citizenship to avoid overseas property taxes. The court was adjourned till October 9.
A third-year undergraduate student at Jadavpur University, Anamika Mondal, was found unconscious near a water body on campus and declared dead upon arrival at a hospital. The incident occurred during a cultural program, and police are investigating the cause of her fall. This tragedy has raised concerns about safety on campus and has led to demands for increased security measures.
Karthik Gattamneni's Mirai, starring Teja Sajja and Manoj Manchu, has been receiving rave reviews on microblogging site X. The visually spectacular film, inspired by Indian mythology, boasts brilliant storytelling, gripping action sequences, and stellar performances. With a perfect mix of star power, special effects, and twists, Mirai is set to make a grand opening on September 12.
SEBI board to discuss regulatory reforms including relaxed IPO norms for large firms, MPO and MPS targets based on market cap, single-window system for foreign investors, changes for accredited investors in certain AIFs, and expanding scope of rating agencies. Also, proposal to grant equity status to REITs and longer timelines for compliance with MPO and MPS targets.
Gold prices in India have risen to over Rs 100,000 per 10 gm, doubling in the last 3 years and surpassing the stock market. Factors such as the festive season, GST rate cuts, and a weak rupee have contributed to this trend. Keep an eye on Manappuram Finance, Muthoot Finance, and Titan as they have solid fundamentals and are expanding their business.
Elon Musk has regained his title as the world's wealthiest person with a net worth of $399 billion, overtaking Larry Ellison who briefly surpassed him. Tesla's success, with a 56% increase in shares, is a major source of Musk's wealth, along with his other ventures such as SpaceX and xAI. Despite their rivalry, Musk and Ellison have a strong connection.
The Indian government's move to reduce GST rates and eliminate compensation cess has had a positive effect on the automotive sector. Mahindra has already lowered prices for its XUV700 models, and the latest revision has made cars of all sizes more affordable, with small cars seeing a 5-13% decrease and larger cars a 3-10% decrease in prices.
Kawasaki has launched the 2026 ZX-10R in India at Rs 19.49 lakh, an increase of Rs 99,000 from the previous model. The updated ZX-10R retains its iconic design and features, including fully adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes, and a TFT instrument console with smartphone connectivity. However, the power output has been reduced to 193.1 bhp, making the 2025 ZX-10R a more sensible option.
Punjab faces severe flood disaster as rivers swell due to intense rainfall in neighboring states. Bollywood actors and Punjabi singers come forward to provide immediate relief and aid to affected families. Shah Rukh Khan's Meer Foundation distributes over 1500 relief kits and collaborates with an Amritsar-based NGO to provide essential supplies to affected homes.
Motilal Oswal rates Bajaj Housing Finance as 'Neutral' with a target price of Rs 120. The company has shown a 29% growth in AUM in the last 5 years and has a diverse product range and strong asset quality. It is the top housing finance company in India, with a focus on high-income earners. Steady returns are expected over the next 3 years.
The US state department is cracking down on foreigners who support the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, warning of consequences such as visa revocation. This includes monitoring social media for anti-American sentiments. Critics argue this violates free speech and targets international students and immigrants.
Infosys, India's second-largest IT services company, announced a record-breaking buyback plan worth Rs 18,000 crore, representing about 2.41% of its paid-up equity capital. This is the first buyback in 3 years and has been well-received by most brokerages, with Jefferies and Nomura maintaining a 'Buy' rating on the stock. The buyback price has been fixed at Rs 1,800 per share.
Indian equity indices opened higher for the eighth consecutive session, with Nifty 50 and Sensex rising by 0.25% and 0.26%, respectively. Bank Nifty, small and midcap stocks also opened higher. Market experts predict a bullish trend, with immediate support at 24,850 and a potential breakout at 25,050. Positive global cues and potential trade talks between the US and India also add to the optimism.