Skydance Media, led by David Ellison, is considering a $70 billion-plus deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, in a move to consolidate media assets and preempt rivals. This could elevate Ellison into the top tier of Hollywood power brokers, despite the challenges of integrating Paramount Global and the potential debt burden.
In Wednesday's trade, several companies made headlines with updates on stake sales, acquisitions, and contract renewals. Key stocks to watch today include Infosys, HCLTech, Swiggy, Bajaj Electricals, Dilip Buildcon, Torrent Power, Karur Vysya Bank, Torrent Pharma, and Gandhar Oil. Indian markets ended marginally lower on Tuesday, with the Nifty 50 and Sensex slipping.
During the UNGA, President Trump changed his stance on the Ukraine-Russia crisis and met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. Trump called Russia a "paper tiger" and expressed support for Ukraine regaining its original borders with help from Europe and NATO. Zelenskyy praised Trump's shift and discussed the ongoing battlefield situation.
"Today, three new IPOs were launched, including BMW Ventures' Rs 231.66 crore issue. BMW Ventures, a company dealing in steel products, spare parts, and PVC pipes, is offering over 2 crore shares at a price range of Rs 94-99 per share. Retail investors can invest a minimum of Rs 14,949 for 151 shares. The allotment is on September 29, with listing on October 1."
Trump supports Ukraine reclaiming occupied land from Russia due to Moscow's economic troubles. No change in U.S. policy, but Trump criticizes Russia's war in Ukraine and promises to supply weapons to NATO. Ukrainian President praises Trump's statement and U.S. urges for an end to the war and threatens.
Amitabh Chaudhry, CEO of Axis Bank, has led the bank to a successful transformation with increased returns and profits. His focus on the human side of banking and technology has made Axis Bank customer-centric and inclusive. Initiatives like "Dil Se Open" and "Har Raah Dil Se Open" have played a crucial role in this transformation.
The Indian government is discussing ways to support the growth of audit and advisory firms, including relaxing restrictions on advertising and allowing foreign firms to participate in government contracts. The group also highlighted the importance of capacity building and promoting domestic firms to compete globally. This is seen as a positive step towards boosting the country's economy.
VIP Industries, a top luggage maker, saw management changes after the promoter family sold a 32% stake to private equity investors. Atul Jain is the new MD and Dilip Piramal is chairman emeritus. Four directors were also appointed. With 20+ years of experience, Jain brings strategic vision.
RBI steps in with Rs 1 lakh crore VRR auctions as system liquidity falls into deficit for the first time this financial year. Tax outflows and RBI unwinding its forward book caused the liquidity crunch. Overnight rates rise, but market participants expect improvement with government's month-end spending and second tranche of CRR cut.
The government is launching e-NAM 2.0, an upgraded version of the e-NAM platform, to improve inter-state and inter-mandi trade, reduce food waste, and increase farmer incomes. It will have automated bidding, demand-supply data, and a digital commerce network, along with lot tracking, timely notifications, and integration with over 1,500 wholesale markets.
The RBI's Monetary Policy Committee is likely to maintain the policy repo rate, but a few experts predict a 25 basis point cut. The rupee's depreciation and lower inflation from GST cuts have influenced this decision. The meeting is scheduled for September 29-October 1, with a 'neutral' stance expected, but some economists suggest a move to 'accommodative'.
India and the US are discussing a Bilateral Trade Agreement, with the Indian delegation meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in New York. Despite tariff tensions, efforts are being made to address issues like increased visa fees and high tariffs that have affected India's exports to the US. Talks are ongoing to intensify negotiations and reach a resolution.
GCMMF, the parent company of Amul, aims to invest ₹10,000 crore in expanding its milk and food processing capacity in the next 2-3 years to achieve a turnover of ₹1 lakh crore by FY26. The investment will be used to set up new plants and increase production in dairy, ice cream, and organic food.
The Centre is planning to borrow Rs 6.8 lakh crore in the second half of the fiscal year and maintain the annual borrowing target of Rs 14.8 lakh crore. This is due to a decrease in demand for 40 and 50-year bonds, caused by revised guidelines for banks and increased equity exposure for pension funds. Despite challenges in tax revenues, the government is determined to meet its borrowing goals.
The US government's new policies, including high tariffs and increased visa fees, have caused the Indian currency to reach a record low of 88.80. This is expected to have a negative impact on Indian IT firms and remittances, with the IT index already falling.
Shah Rukh Khan's beloved home, Mannat, has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. Amid ongoing renovations and a legal battle, the Khan family is temporarily staying in a luxury apartment. For Shah Rukh, Mannat holds sentimental value as his dream home and a sanctuary for his family.
Max Planck Institute scientists found 7,000-year-old mummies in the Sahara, revealing a new North African lineage during the African Humid Period. They had genetic ties to 15,000-year-old foragers from Morocco and Neanderthal DNA. The study suggests minimal genetic exchange between North and Sub-Saharan Africa, with pastoralism spreading through cultural diffusion instead of migrations.
Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers Ltd's IPO received 40% subscription on the first day of bidding, with bids for 54,09,144 shares against 1,33,63,342 shares. The RII and non-institutional investors category saw 53% subscription, while the QIB category saw 1% subscription. The broking firm raised over Rs 220 crore from anchor investors and the IPO is priced at Rs 393-414 per share.
India's natural gas import bill for the first five months of FY26 decreased by 11%, with a decline in both volume and cost. This highlights the country's reliance on imported gas, as domestic production also decreased. Despite efforts to boost domestic production, India's import dependency remains high at 52%.
Air India and Adani Airport Holdings Ltd are preparing to launch operations at the new Navi Mumbai International Airport on September 30. The airport will have 20 daily departures initially and plans to increase to 55 and eventually 60 by 2026. Air India CEO Campbell Wilson is enthusiastic about connecting the West to the East.
GK Energy Ltd's IPO was oversubscribed by 89.62 times on the last day of share sale, with bids for 1,98,77,78,982 shares against 2,21,80,828 shares on offer. The company has collected over Rs 139 crore from anchor investors and plans to use the proceeds for funding its long-term working capital requirements. GK Energy is India's largest EPC provider for solar-pumps
Tata Advanced Systems launched a new manufacturing facility in Morocco for the production of Wheeled Armoured Platform 8x8. It is the company's first overseas defence manufacturing facility and the first by an Indian defence company. The facility will deliver the WhAP 8x8 to the Government of Morocco starting in October.
S&P Global Ratings maintains India's GDP growth forecast at 6.5% due to strong domestic demand and a favorable monsoon. It expects a 25 bps rate cut by RBI this fiscal and revises inflation forecast to 3.2%. India's GDP grew at 7.8% in Q1 and S&P predicts a steady growth supported by government investment and tax cuts.
Shashi Tharoor, former MoS MEA and Congress MP, states that the recent US tariffs are a short-term setback for India, but the two countries are still working together. He criticizes Trump's belief in tariffs as a solution and discusses the impact of the H-1B visa fee hike. Tharoor hopes for a resolution and a recovery in the India-US relationship.
Cochin Shipyard has partnered with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering to enhance shipbuilding capabilities. They will utilize a new dry dock and establish a Block Fabrication Facility in Kochi, with an investment of Rs 3,700 crore. This collaboration aims to produce six vessels annually, creating 2,000 direct jobs and significant indirect employment opportunities.
US colleges and universities have faced a tumultuous year due to legal battles with President Trump and student activism. The release of US News and World Report's 'best universities' rankings include Harvard and Columbia. While Harvard maintains its top 3 spot, Columbia holds strong despite prior false data submissions.
Experts caution against high-intensity Garba dance during Navratri due to the risk of sudden heart attacks and death. Cardiologists advise taking precautions like avoiding overexertion, staying hydrated, and getting regular checkups. The intense aerobic exercise can strain the heart, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions or a sedentary lifestyle.
Indian private defence companies anticipate a rise in revenue and orders due to high domestic demand and government support for domestic manufacturing. The sector has maintained a 20% CAGR in the last 4 fiscal years with steady profits and a strong balance sheet. Electronic warfare systems, command and control systems, and aerospace equipment are the main contributors to the growth in order books.
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah has written to Wipro Founder-Chairman Azim Premji asking for limited vehicular movement through the company's campus to reduce traffic congestion on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) in Bengaluru. He highlighted the severe traffic chaos at Iblur junction and requested Wipro's support in easing bottlenecks and enhancing commuter experience for a more livable Bengaluru.
HCC secures contracts worth over Rs 2,500 crore from PMRCL for construction of underground tunnels and metro stations in Patna. The contracts also include architectural finishing and utility works. HCC is currently working on various metro projects in different cities and has played a major role in India's metro expansion. The company's share price rose by 6% after the announcement of the order.
Hero MotoCorp has launched the new Destini 110, a 110cc iteration of its previous 125cc scooter model. Priced at Rs 72,000 and Rs 79,000, the scooter is available in two variants and comes with a 110.9 cc engine, producing 8 bhp and 8.87 Nm of torque. It also features a long seat, i3S technology, and a signature H-shaped LED taillamp. With a
Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, is a billionaire who stands out for his humble and down-to-earth nature. He prioritizes his passion for rock-climbing and environmental conservation over his wealth, and has transferred ownership of Patagonia to a trust and nonprofit organization. In a time of growing wealth inequality, Chouinard sets an example of using wealth for meaningful causes.
The GK Energy IPO will close its bidding window in a short while from now. All eyes are on its grey market premium (GMP) and the subscription numbers. By mid-day on its Day 3 of bidding, GK Energy was subscribed more than 20 times overall so far. The Pune-based agricultural water pump manufacturer is raising about Rs 465 crore through this IPO.
The new GST rates in India have lowered the tax burden on pharmaceutical products, making them more affordable for all socio-economic groups and boosting domestic manufacturing and innovation. IPA highlights that patients with rare diseases, cancer, and genetic disorders will see significant cost savings.
Trump's decision to impose a $100,000 application fee on H-1B visas has caused chaos and confusion among international workers and applicants. The Indian government condemns the move, citing potential humanitarian consequences, while Silicon Valley CEOs have mixed reactions. The fee is meant to promote American hiring, but it may also harm startups and bodyshops.
SEBI and RBI are planning to simplify the process for overseas investors to enter the Indian market by implementing standardised documentation and reducing scrutiny for regulated investors. The registration process, which currently takes six months, will be shortened to 1-2 months. These changes are being proposed in response to weak foreign investment and concerns over US tariffs.
The iValue Infosolutions IPO, priced at Rs 284 to Rs 299 per share, received a subscription of 1.82 times and is set to finalize allotment on September 23. The company aims to raise Rs 560.29 crore and will be listed on September 25. Interested investors can check their application status online through BSE, NSE, or the registrar's website using application number or PAN.
Dubai has become a top destination for wealthy Indians seeking to invest in luxury residential properties worth over $10 million. The city's tax breaks, rising real estate value, and convenient location near India have attracted many high net-worth individuals.
Voltas is facing challenges with excess inventory and declining sales, causing a 25% drop in share price. Key brokerage houses predict a further 28% decline, but the company remains optimistic with its focus on margin management and anticipated demand during the festive season. Opinions among brokerages vary, with some downgrading and others upgrading the stock due to structural factors.
Heavy rainfall in Kolkata has caused severe waterlogging, disrupting preparations for the Durja Puja festival. The city's Municipal Corporation is working to ease the situation, but with most areas flooded, it is challenging. Train services are affected, and visuals of submerged vehicles and pandals are circulating on social media. Three deaths due to electrocution have been reported.
Mahindra is set to launch the facelifted version of its popular off-roading SUV, the Thar. The new 3-door Thar has been spotted at a dealership yard, indicating a market launch is imminent. The updated version will come with a revised front grille, rear wiper and washer, and a free-standing 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Singer Zubeen Garg passed away in Singapore on September 19 while swimming. His three beloved dogs bid him farewell in a viral video shared by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. His cremation will be held with full state honours, and a second post-mortem was conducted.
Jefferies recommends buying four stocks across sectors with potential upside of up to 22%. These stocks will benefit from improving fundamentals, business moves, and regulatory tailwinds. Paytm's 'Buy' rating with a target price of Rs 1,420 is due to lower expenses and growth potential from its postpaid offering. Axis Bank and IndiGo are also top picks with high potential upside.
India's private sector growth stayed robust in September, as the HSBC's flash Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) decreased slightly from the previous month. While both manufacturing and services PMI saw a slowdown, new business growth was still positive. Job creation also slowed down, suggesting no urgency for companies to hire more employees.
Kirti Doshi, through his family-controlled entity, has acquired a 21% stake in Emkay Global, while existing promoters have also invested additional equity. This has resulted in a total capital infusion of Rs 227.5 crore. Doshi expresses excitement to work with Emkay's founders and management, while they welcome his expertise.
The Indian rupee reached an all-time low of 88.53 against the US dollar on Tuesday due to increased US tariffs and H-1B visa fee hike. The RBI's limited intervention has led to more volatility and potential further decline. The Sensex and Nifty also saw a dip, while the Commerce and Industry Ministry is monitoring the situation closely.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg believes in starting his day with a workout routine, specifically Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA, to boost his energy levels, brain power, focus, and memory. He also takes creatine and vitamin D for nourishment and has completed the challenging 'Murph Challenge' workout. This combination of physical and intellectual engagement sets him up for a productive day.
Euro Pratik Sales, a decorative laminates and wall panels company, had a successful IPO with shares listed at an 11% premium. The IPO raised Rs 451.31 crore and received a moderate response from investors. The company, founded in 2010, specializes in design-led products for modern construction and interior projects.
21-year-old Samarjeet Singh from Punjab is missing in Russia after being seen in a Russian soldier's uniform during a video call with his family. His family has asked for help from Prime Minister Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs to find him. His family believes he was influenced by a Russian woman to join the army.
Assamese singer Zubeen Garg died in Singapore on September 19 at the age of 52 in a swimming pool mishap. He had travelled to attend the Northeast India Festival. Upon arrival of his body from Singapore, fans gathered in lakhs at Jalukbari in Guwahati to pay their respects.
The DoT is set to report positive results for the telecom PLI scheme at a meeting with the Cabinet secretary. While half of the approved companies have not claimed incentives yet, the scheme has successfully achieved its core objectives. With cumulative sales of Rs 91,125 crore, exports at Rs 17,809 crore, investments at Rs 4,516 crore, and 29,117 jobs created.