Starbucks has found its new chief technology officer, Anand Varadarajan, who will also serve as executive vice president starting January 19, 2026. Varadarajan has a strong background in technology and operations, with 19 years at Amazon, and will report directly to CEO Brian Niccol. His appointment comes amid the company's tech-focused "Back to Starbucks" initiative and a digital overhaul.
Skoda Auto Volkswagen India's India 2.0 project, launched with a 1 billion euro investment, faces hurdles in achieving its 5% market share goal by 2025. The Skoda Kylaq has been a success, but the group's overall market share is only 2.44%. Obstacles like tough competition and operational challenges have hindered the project's progress.
AI plays a crucial role in maternal healthcare, but it cannot replace qualities like clinical judgement, compassion, and trust. Fernandez Foundation has been successfully using AI for over 20 years to predict high-risk pregnancies. CEO Samir Vieira believes that AI should support, not replace, clinicians and patients are now more involved in their healthcare decisions.
India's bar scene is transforming with the emergence of speakeasy-style bars, known for their secrecy and exclusivity. These hidden bars are gaining popularity in the country's premium nightlife industry, as the demand for unique experiences and top-notch cocktails grows. They are also expected to contribute to the country's projected increase in alcohol consumption.
The government has extended the exemption for solar photovoltaic cells from the ALMM List-II until 2026, to protect investments and ease the transition for net-metering and open access renewable energy projects. However, this exemption will not apply to other solar power projects, as the government aims to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports.
Peptides, short chains of amino acids, have a significant impact on health including muscle growth, skin health, and energy. However, experts advise caution as there is no substantial scientific evidence to support their use as over-the-counter options.
India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spoke to entrepreneurs in Madurai, highlighting India's potential as the world's fastest-growing major economy and its ability to contribute significantly to global growth. She encouraged entrepreneurs to embrace risks in the rapidly changing economy.
The WHO predicts a 70% rise in cancer cases by 2050, due to lifestyle and environmental factors. Prevention through addressing risk factors like tobacco use and obesity is possible. Early detection through screening can improve treatment outcomes. In India, head and neck, lung, breast, ovarian, and cervical cancer are common. Healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of cancer.
The Karnataka government has extended food service hours in Bengaluru until 3:30 am, giving bars and restaurants an opportunity to capitalize on the FIFA World Cup final. Popular chains like Domino's and McDonald's are offering special promotions, while businesses like Underdoggs Sports Bar & Grill and BeeYoung Brewgarden are expecting record revenues.
"Desi Disruptors" by Vispy Doctor and Vikrant Pande highlights successful Indian brands and their strategies for turning consumer insights into successful businesses. The book offers practical advice and real-life examples, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer pain points and executing with emotional resonance and operational discipline.
The Pitt, a medical drama series, leads in nominations for the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards. It highlights healthcare workers' struggles and has gained renewed attention during the pandemic. Popular medical dramas in India include Mumbai Diaries 26/11 and InsidER.
The umbrella, a centuries-old design, is getting a digital makeover with the rise of "smart umbrellas." These umbrellas use weather data, Bluetooth tracking, advanced materials, and even autonomous flight to make them more functional. They also address common issues such as forgetting the umbrella, dripping water, and poor durability.
Celebrities' ability to transform mundane items into coveted collectibles is exemplified by Justin Gignac's sale of trash from Taylor Swift's wedding for a high price. This trend is driven by the power of internet culture and fan devotion, as even garbage holds sentimental value when connected to idols. Rapper Cardi B's microphone is another example of this phenomenon.
Corn, a versatile grain that has been around for over 9,000 years, is consumed in various forms globally. In India, it is used to make dishes like makki ki roti, pankhi, and barfi. Chef Anahita Dhondy's recipe for Mexican polenta cake, featured in her book The Grain Kitchen, combines the sweetness of cinnamon sugar with savory bacon and fresh berries.
The football world is experiencing a shift as the Messi-Ronaldo era concludes. Rising stars like Mbappe, Haaland, Bellingham, Yamal, and Junior are becoming the new global brands. They are not only excelling on the field, but also crafting their personal stories, connecting with fans on social media, and securing non-traditional partnerships.
Gen Z, known as the ‘snowflake generation’, are turning to analogue hobbies, also known as the ‘grandmacore’ movement, to escape the constant consumption of screens and algorithms. These hobbies, such as painting, pottery, and calligraphy, are gaining popularity through social media and ticketing platforms.
Spain will witness a total solar eclipse on August 12, the first since 1905. Other countries like Greenland, Iceland, and Portugal will also see it, but Spain is the ideal destination due to its warm weather, cultural scene, and transport links. Visitors can enjoy tapas, wine tasting, coastal walks, and island escapes.
Bollywood is undergoing a structural transformation as studios expand into vertically integrated ecosystems, controlling every aspect of storytelling. This trend is similar to global giants like Disney and Warner Bros, with companies like Red Chillies Entertainment, YRF, and Dharma Productions building end-to-end entertainment empires.
Disney, Universal, Sony, and Paramount are major players in the entertainment industry due to their vertical integration and successful franchises. Paramount's purchase of Warner Bros Discovery for $111 billion has caused concern among Hollywood's creatives, who worry about limited opportunities and increased expenses. This deal reflects the industry's focus on streaming and data-based content.
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 Test Flight-1 successfully reached orbit on July 18, marking India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket and a major milestone for the country's space industry. Named 'Mission Aagaman', it launched from Sriharikota and completed its planned sequence of flight stages, injecting payloads into a 450-km orbit.
Steven Spielberg is the top-earning director with a $7.1 billion fortune from smart deals, real estate, and a disciplined lifestyle. His unique negotiation style has earned him $250 million from one movie and he has ongoing revenue-sharing deals with Universal Studios. He also has partnerships with Netflix and Apple, but remains focused on his craft with a full slate of projects.
Christopher Nolan's new film, The Odyssey, has had a successful opening weekend, surpassing records set by other blockbusters. With a star-studded cast and large budget, the film has already earned over $40 million in its first day and is expected to make over $200 million globally. Critics and audiences are raving about the film, solidifying its place as a top summer box office hit.
Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace is set to launch India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket, Vikram-1, named 'Aagaman', from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 18 at 11:30 am.
Sonam Wangchuk, a climate activist and education reformer, was hospitalized after a 20-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar. His condition had worsened, and Delhi Police cited medical advice for the move. Wangchuk was demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over exam irregularities and received support from various groups.
The rise of AI has created a game of snakes and ladders for Gen Z, with automation taking away jobs but also creating a surge in net worth for young entrepreneurs. The latest Forbes Billionaires list includes a record number of under-30 billionaires, many of whom have made their fortunes through AI startups like Aman Sanger, Scale AI, and Mercor.
India has confirmed that the Shahid Beheshti terminal at Iran's Chabahar Port, which is developed and operated by India, was not damaged after the United States carried out an airstrike on a surveillance tower at the neighbouring Shahid Kalantari port earlier this week.
Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1, built by former Isro scientists Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, represents the moment when India's private space sector can build a sustainable launch business. Their journey mirrors the evolution of the sector, from an idea viewed with scepticism to one attracting billion-dollar valuations and global investors.
Carmakers are shifting their focus from electric-only to electric-first approach, as seen in the ADAPT display by JSW MG. ADAPT is India's first platform that supports four electrified powertrains: BEVs, HEVs, PHEVs, and REEVs. BEVs are traditional electric cars, while HEVs have a small battery and a petrol engine for fuel efficiency.
The journey from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La pass is a must-visit, historically rich and diverse region. It was captured by the Indian Army from Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak War and is now home to the Balti people with their unique language and culture. While tourism has brought prosperity, it has also caused pollution, making cleanliness a key concern.
The Monsoon Session of Parliament, starting on July 20, will focus on passing key bills such as the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill and the Income-Tax (Amendment) Bill. The session will also introduce new bills, including the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Amendment) Bill, aimed at improving ease of doing business and addressing delayed payments to MSMEs.
Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu topped the Investment Friendliness Index released by NITI Aayog, highlighting the importance of states in creating a business-friendly environment. Bihar ranked last, while Uttarakhand, Goa, and Delhi were top performers in their categories. The IFI aims to promote reforms, encourage peer learning, and attract private investment for economic growth.
Rystad Energy forecasts a $15-20 per barrel geopolitical risk premium in crude prices due to the escalating conflict between the US and Iran. The chances of sustained fighting have risen to 20% and the likelihood of no agreement has reached 55%.
The government is releasing a revised Index of Core Industries (ICI) on Monday, including iron ore and increasing the number of industries tracked to nine. The base year has been updated to 2022-23 from 2011-12. This marks the first revision since 2017 and follows similar exercises for other macro-economic data.
PM Modi launches India's first hydrogen fuel train, a symbol of the country's expertise in eco-friendly rail transport. The train, built under "Make in India," boasts a 3,200-horsepower engine and 10 coaches, making it the world's strongest hydrogen train. With a top speed of 75 kmph and a 3,000 kg hydrogen storage and refueling facility, it promises economic growth and job opportunities.
Parametric insurance is a fast way to recover from climate-related events, paying a pre-agreed amount based on measurable parameters. It is beneficial for gig workers and farmers who can lose income due to extreme weather. However, it is not a substitute for traditional insurance and has limitations such as fixed payouts and limited event coverage.
The Pension Fund Regulator's new digital toolkit, PRIDE-DISHA, allows National Pension System subscribers to make informed retirement planning decisions by comparing performance of different pension fund managers. It uses an extended internal rate of return (XIRR) to display accurate returns and accumulated corpus based on historical net asset value (NAV) growth.
The inclusion of foreign income and investment data in the Annual Information Statement (AIS) will improve tax compliance and reduce errors. Taxpayers must reconcile the information with their records and disclose all foreign assets to avoid penalties.
EPFO launches "VISHWAS, 2026" to settle disputes through a digital and time-bound process. The scheme aims to promote voluntary compliance, reduce litigation, and resolve long-pending disputes related to penalty/damages. Concessional rates of 0.25%, 0.50%, and 1% per month will be applied for defaults.
India's thermal power capacity saw a significant increase of 1.6 GW, but execution delays and stranded projects are still a concern. With peak power demand expected to reach 300 GW next year, only 22% of the FY27 target has been met. The government plans to add 97 GW of coal-based capacity by 2034-35 to meet the growing demand.
India's export growth in April-May was not just due to higher commodity prices, as 72 out of 100 product categories saw an increase in export volumes. While petroleum exports rose due to crude prices, engineering goods, agriculture, and high-growth sectors like drug formulations and steel products were the main drivers.
The central drug regulator has exempted half of low-risk bioequivalence studies, making it easier for domestic generic drugs to be launched. This has reduced burden on pharmaceutical companies and freed up regulatory resources. Digitization of processes and development of a digital platform to streamline drug value chain have also been implemented.
Farmers in Gujarat's Saurashtra region are protesting against inadequate compensation for power transmission infrastructure, specifically targeting Adani Energy Solutions Ltd.'s project. The protest is expected to spread statewide, with committees formed at the taluka level. Despite a revised government policy, farmers are demanding 400% of market value and a rerouting of the transmission.
The Indian government's new Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme has boosted EMS stocks, particularly Dixon Technologies. While the stock has seen recent gains, it has also declined in the past year. Experts have varying opinions on how the scheme will affect Dixon Technologies.
Indian airlines have significantly reduced operations on the India-West Asia corridor due to the Iran-Israel conflict, cutting 1.73 million seats between March and June. Meanwhile, foreign carriers have maintained their schedules, showing the resilience of their hub-based networks.
India's maritime combat capability has been enhanced with the arrival of advanced MH-60R "Romeo" Seahawk naval helicopters from Lockheed Martin. These helicopters are equipped with advanced sensors and weapons systems, making them highly capable for various missions. This highlights the growing defense partnership between India and the United States.
The first scheduled commercial flight between Daman and New Delhi was launched today, connecting the two cities twice a week. The flight was flagged off by Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu. Operated by Alliance Air, the new service aims to improve connectivity, boost tourism, and support business and investment in the region.
SBI Funds Management IPO, which closed with an overall subscription of 41.73 times, is expected to finalise its allotment today, July 17. The IPO, which attracted strong demand, saw the QIB portion being subscribed 140.11 times, followed by NII at 22.51 times and retail at 3.76 times. The grey market premium is around Rs 97 per share, implying a premium of 17%.
Anurag Kumar, a senior IPS officer, has been appointed as Delhi's new Commissioner of Police, signaling a major reshuffle in the city's law-enforcement leadership. With his extensive experience and intelligence background, Kumar is expected to focus on intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and improved coordination with other agencies.
Caliber Mining's IPO, aiming to raise Rs 450 crores, has a price band of Rs 402 to Rs 424 per share and is open for bidding until July 21. The issue includes a fresh issue of Rs 400 crores and an offer for sale of Rs 50 crores. As of 12:30 PM, the IPO has been subscribed 0.72 times, with strong interest from retail investors. Allotment is expected soon.
Antique Stock Broking maintains a positive view on select financial stocks, including Union Bank of India, HDFC Life Insurance, and ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company, due to their strong June-quarter earnings and reinforced long-term earnings outlook.
Nuvama initiates coverage on Siemens Energy with a ‘Buy’ rating and a target price of Rs 4,200, implying a 20% upside. The company is positioned to benefit from India's projected Rs 7.93 lakh crore transmission investment cycle through FY36. Its portfolio in the high-growth 400–765kV segment, robust export growth.