New York City's 2025 congestion pricing program has effectively decreased traffic and air pollution, generating $500 million for the MTA. Despite criticism, the program has led to a decrease in traffic and an increase in transit ridership. The MTA plans to surpass its revenue goal and use $15 billion in bonds to improve transit. Sales-tax revenue remains steady.
Nelco, backed by Tata Group, is conducting proof-of-concept trials and demonstrations with Eutelsat OneWeb to provide secure, low-latency LEO connectivity for enterprise and institutional clients. These demonstrations are crucial for regulatory approval before mass rollout.
In 2025, Bollywood dominates the highest-grossing Indian movies list with five Hindi films in the top ten. Regional films also thrive, with Gujarati films crossing Rs 100 crore and Malayalam cinema shining for the second year. The industry sees a growth in diverse content, including a groundbreaking spy-thriller that challenges stereotypes and generates debates.
India's natural gas import bill for April-November FY26 decreased by 11.5% to $9.2 billion, with a 8.8% decline in LNG imports. Domestic production also decreased by 3.3% while demand is expected to grow by 4-6% in FY26. The country's reliance on LNG imports is expected to remain high at 52%. India has signed a one-year deal for imports of 2.2 million tonnes of LPG
India is in talks with the US for a trade agreement and has finalized an FTA with New Zealand. The US deal is highly coveted, but labor-intensive sectors still struggle. Talks with Canada for the CEPA have been revived after a two-year gap. India's growing strategic significance is evident with FTAs finalized with three members of the Five Eyes alliance.
Indian travellers are choosing shorter, last-minute international trips due to the rupee's weakness. Thailand is now the preferred destination for year-end vacations, overtaking the UAE. The Prayagraj Kumbh Mela has boosted spiritual travel, making Uttar Pradesh the most visited state.
Large-cap funds once ruled long-term portfolios but 2026 may be rewriting that rulebook. As market volatility tests pure equity bets, hybrid multi-asset funds like Quant are quietly challenging giants such as Nippon India Large Cap. Their performance gap, risk profiles, and investor appeal are closer than you think and the final verdict might surprise even seasoned investors.
Mumbai, also known as "Maximum City," once had cleaner air than Delhi due to its coastal location and sea winds. However, pollution levels have worsened due to the rise in vehicles and construction projects. The state government's focus on infrastructure and real estate development is adding to the problem, with construction sites and redevelopment projects producing dust and emissions.
The DGCA is investigating an Air India incident where a Boeing 777-300ER had to return to Delhi due to a drop in oil pressure in its right-hand engine. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has requested a report and the airline has confirmed that standard procedures were followed.
The ED conducted searches at 21 premises in Delhi, Karnataka, and Maharashtra related to a cryptocurrency scam involving 4th Bloc Consultants and others. The accused targeted both foreign nationals and Indian citizens through social media, promising high returns through cryptocurrency investments.
Father-son duo Sajid and Naveed Akram have been identified as the suspects behind the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, Australia. A "fact sheet" released by police reveals details about their alleged involvement, including a video manifesto and claims of using unexploded bombs. The court document also mentions the pair's apparent training and planning for the attack.
Chennai-based Ramco Cements has sold non-core assets worth ₹514.90 crore to Prestige Estates Projects, as part of its plan to monetise assets worth ₹1,000 crore. This brings the total amount of assets sold by the company to ₹1,016.92 crore. The proceeds will be used to reduce debt, which stood at ₹4,591 crore as of September 30.
Air India is expanding its fleet with three new aircraft, including a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and an Airbus A350-1000 with updated interiors and a new first-class product. Additionally, Air India Express will receive its first Boeing 737-8 MAX, as part of a larger 190 aircraft order. These additions showcase the airline's commitment to modernizing its fleet and improving its fleet management.
Ashvini Rare Earth is spearheading India's entry into rare-earth metal production with its 15-tonne-per-annum Nd-Pr metal facility. The company aims to catalyse domestic magnet manufacturing and reduce India's dependence on imports by creating downstream magnet capacity.
Shriram Finance has secured a massive investment from MUFG, but has no plans to convert into a universal bank. The Japanese conglomerate will acquire a 20% stake in the company, with the promoter group holding 20.3% and the public holding 60%.
Indian equity benchmarks closed higher on Monday, with the Nifty 50 and BSE Sensex rising 0.79% and 0.75% respectively. The Nifty Bank also settled higher, while mid- and small-cap stocks closed in the green. The BSE Midcap finished 0.86% higher, while the BSE Smallcap ended 1.12% lower. The markets were supported by strong liquidity and global cues.
The streaming wars have intensified in 2025 as traditional TV schedules became less popular. The year's biggest hits, including a South Korean thriller and an animated musical, have achieved global success. Netflix's most-watched original film was an animated musical, while Cameron Diaz's comeback film was a high-octane action-comedy.
The US is launching "Project Sunrise" to turn Gaza into a futuristic destination with luxury resorts, high-speed rail, and AI-optimized smart grids. The project costs $112.1 billion and will take 10 years. The State Department denies reports of the US paying $60 billion. Jared Kushner is leading the project.
Robert Kiyosaki, author of "Rich Dad Poor Dad," believes economic crashes are opportunities, not disasters. He stresses the impact of our words and how they can determine whether we become poorer or richer. In his post, "How to get richer as the economy crashes," Kiyosaki encourages controlling words and taking advantage of buying opportunities during market crashes.
Pakistan's CDF, Field Marshal Asim Munir, while speaking at a conference, stated that Pakistan received "divine help" during India's Operation Sindoor. He added that the country "felt it". He also called on the Taliban to choose between the TTP and maintaining relations with Islamabad, adding that 70 per cent of Afghans are part of TTP formations coming into Pakistan.
Microsoft has warned its visa-holding employees not to travel outside the US due to visa stamping delays. They have also created a survey to track the impact of these delays. The Trump administration's social media vetting has caused H-1B visa delays, with some appointments being rescheduled to 2026. Microsoft is closely monitoring and guiding its employees in this situation.
Shriram Finance's shares rise 2% as the company approves Rs 39,620 crore preferential equity issuance to MUFG Bank, giving them a 20% stake. Brokerages maintain a Buy rating and praise the deal. Nomura raises target price by 26.4%, citing the Japanese bank's expertise. Motilal Oswal sees the move as strategically significant and expects a credit rating upgrade.
At the young age of 46, versatile actor James Ransone sadly took his own life, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning. Known for his intense and authentic performances, he was open about his struggles with addiction and the emotional toll of playing troubled characters. His legacy will be remembered through his memorable roles in The Wire and It Chapter Two.
Indian equity indices opened higher on Monday, with the NSE Nifty 50 up by 0.37% and the BSE Sensex up by 0.36%. The Bank Nifty also opened in the green, along with small and mid-cap stocks. The Nifty index is expected to break out from a "Double Bottom" formation and reach its all-time high. Early gainers include Infosys, Shriram Finance, and Wipro.
Ranveer Singh's Dhurandhar is breaking records at the box office, surpassing Hollywood blockbuster Avatar: Fire and Ash and becoming the highest-grossing film of 2025. The movie follows Jaskirat Singh Rangi, a death-row inmate on a high-stakes undercover mission led by India's Intelligence Bureau.
The US Department of Justice faced criticism for removing a photo of Trump and Epstein from its website, but has since restored it after a review. Democrats and survivors of Epstein are demanding transparency and accountability for the delay in releasing the Epstein Files.
Gujarat Kidney & Super Speciality is launching an IPO, hoping to raise Rs 250.80 crore through a fresh issue of 2.20 crore shares. The price band is Rs 108-114 per share, and the issue will close on December 24. The stock is trading at a premium of 6%, suggesting a potential gain of Rs 896 on a single lot. Funds will be used for acquisitions, capital expenditure, and other purposes.
Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third installment in James Cameron's franchise, has exceeded expectations by dominating the Box Office in just 3 days. With a star-studded cast and thrilling new additions like the 'ash-people', the film has already earned over Rs 60 crore in India and $345 million worldwide.
Tulsi Gabbard, US Director of National Intelligence, spoke at the Turning Point USA conference in Phoenix, Arizona, addressing the threat of "Islamist ideology" to Western freedom and security. Gabbard received support from members of the MAGA camp and other far-right figures, who praised her for speaking out on the issue.
The final regulation to replace the H-1B visa lottery with a wage-based selection process has been submitted for review. The proposal, under the Trump administration, would prioritize Level IV (experienced) salaries over lower-paying positions. This could have a significant impact on foreign workers, with highly skilled and well-paid individuals being given priority.
IIM Bangalore remains the top B-school in India, but trails IIM Ahmedabad in national rankings. Director U Dinesh Kumar explains the disparity, emphasizing the institute's focus on interdisciplinary and impactful research. The new campus in Jigani, free land from the Karnataka government, is a major investment.
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota have launched the eVitara, an electric car with two battery options, e-Axle, and AllGrip-e variant. It has a spacious cabin and competitive pricing, but lacks boot space and noise reduction. The buyback program and charging network make it a smooth transition to electric cars.
The Department of Consumer Affairs predicts stable prices for pulses in the upcoming months due to ample buffer stock, favorable weather, and increased sowing. The government has extended duty-free import agreements with Myanmar, Mozambique, and Malawi for five years and allocated Rs 11,440 crore to increase production to 35 MT by 2030, aiming for self-sufficiency.
The Parliament passed the VB-G RAM G Bill to replace MGNREGA, proposing to increase employment guarantee to 125 days per household per year and focus on infrastructure and climate-resilient assets. While concerns about eroding rights and fiscal burden have been raised, the new law offers a chance to enhance the scheme and align it with development objectives.
The UltraProlink Juice-Up Mag 6 is a sleek and powerful wireless magnetic power bank that is perfect for travel. It supports fast-charging and MagSafe wireless compatibility for Apple, Samsung, Google, and OnePlus devices. With a 10000mAh battery, it can charge an iPhone from 0% to 50% in under 30 minutes.
Samsung's Galaxy S25 FE is a powerful and affordable device with a slim and light design. It offers a good display, Exynos 2400 chipset, and 8GB RAM for smooth everyday use. It also stands out with its on-device AI features and impressive battery life. With a 120Hz refresh rate display and advanced cameras, it is a great alternative to Samsung's flagship at a price of Rs 59,999.
AI-powered loyalty programmes are transforming the online shopping landscape with tailored rewards and discounts based on customer behavior. Hilton Honors, American Airlines, Domino's Pizza, Starbucks, Bigbasket, Flipkart, Swiggy, and Oyo are among the companies utilizing AI to boost customer retention and sales.
India's software outsourcing industry is renowned for its size, expertise, and cost efficiency. It has expanded from basic IT services to cutting-edge technologies like AI, cloud, and cybersecurity, dominating the global IT outsourcing market. However, the industry is under threat from the rising trend of "Shadow AI" - unauthorised use of AI by employees, posing risks to data security.
Pranita Venkatesh, a Fijian American of Indian descent, has become the first South Asian mayor of San Carlos, California. She was unanimously voted in by the City Council and is also one of the youngest mayors in the city. She has a master's degree in psychology and a background in public service. Her appointment comes shortly before Zohran Mamdani becomes New York City's first Muslim mayor.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order designating Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas as federal holidays for this year. The expanded holiday period is intended to give federal employees additional paid time off. However, the holiday only applies to executive branch federal workers and does not automatically extend to private sector employees.
Indian students are turning to artificial intelligence for studying abroad, prioritizing ROI and career outcomes over university prestige. Emerging destinations like Germany, UAE, and New Zealand are gaining popularity due to lower costs and better job prospects. The report also notes a growing number of women in the tech field.
India's renewable energy sector has made strides, reaching 262.7 GW capacity. But, issues like delayed agreements have left 40 GW stranded. To reach the goal of 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity, the government has a plan to streamline the supply chain and boost domestic production. Grid integration and export opportunities are hurdles, but the upcoming Budget is expected to tackle these challenges.
Exports to the US experienced a decrease from May-September due to tariff escalation, but November showed a 22% increase. Exporters' tactics, like clearing backlogs and adjusting product mix, may have offset the impact of tariffs. Exports not subject to tariffs also contributed to the rise. The depreciating rupee has aided, but profitability remains at zero.
Meesho's stock market debut showcases the triumph of its distinctive value-commerce model in India's e-commerce sector. Its zero commission approach, emphasis on affordability and efficiency, and shift to a customer-centric marketplace have resulted in impressive financial success and dominance in smaller towns and rural regions.
The FBI is working on the 'AI National Security Project' to improve national security and combat evolving threats. Director Kash Patel stressed the significance of AI in law enforcement and intelligence work, stating it is crucial for staying ahead of adversaries.
Vivek Ramaswamy, a candidate for Ohio governor, has spoken out against racist attacks towards US Second Lady Usha Vance. He specifically called out the Groypers and their association with white nationalists and right-wing pundit Nick Fuentes. Ramaswamy also addressed bigotry among conservatives at a Turning Point USA event and defended Vance while setting boundaries for followers.
Canada has suspended the Home Care Worker immigration pilot program and cancelled the Start-Up Visa program to manage immigration levels. Existing applications will still be processed, but the pause aims to prevent further growth. The country hopes to maintain sustainable immigration levels and boost its economy through other means.
IndiGo, India's largest airline, is facing a pilot shortage crisis, forcing it to shelve its international expansion plans. The airline is now focusing on addressing the shortage before expanding. It has also reduced its domestic flying schedule by 10% and lowered its capacity and revenue guidance for the third quarter due to regulatory mandates.
Indian Railways has raised passenger fares for AC and non-AC coaches on Mail and Express trains, as well as ordinary class travel, effective from December 26. The increase is expected to generate an additional revenue of Rs 600 crore, with the reason being higher manpower costs. However, categories like suburban and monthly season tickets have been exempted.
Immigration experts caution non-immigrant visa holders, especially H-1B workers, against leaving the US due to policy changes and stricter social media screening. The new $100,000 fee for H-1B petitions makes it even riskier to leave and return. Top companies and attorneys are worried about delays and cancellations of visa interviews.