Nvidia Becomes First-Ever Company to Cross $4 Trillion Valuation

July 10, 2025, 8:25 am

Chipmaker Nvidia made history on Wednesday by becoming the first publicly traded company to cross a $4 trillion market valuation. The company's shares jumped 2.4% to reach $164, driven by an unrelenting surge in demand for artificial intelligence technologies.

Nvidia's powerful chips and associated software are considered the industry gold standard for building AI products, fueling its meteoric rise. The company first crossed the $1 trillion mark in June 2023, and in just over a year, it has tripled its market worth—outpacing tech giants like Apple and Microsoft.

Faster Growth Than Apple and Microsoft

Apple was the first company to touch a $3 trillion valuation, while Microsoft now follows closely behind with a $3.75 trillion market cap. However, Nvidia’s rise has been so dramatic that it now makes up 7.3% of the entire S&P 500 index, compared to Apple’s 7% and Microsoft’s 6%.

Tariffs Fail to Halt Nvidia's Ascent

Even geopolitical tensions haven’t derailed Nvidia’s upward momentum. In April, the company faced a 74% rebound from a temporary dip due to reciprocal tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump, which restricted the sale of its most advanced chips to China. Nvidia has been lobbying against these export controls.

Despite this, optimism around a potential US-China trade agreement has fueled further investor confidence. The S&P 500 recently reached an all-time high, further validating the tech bull run.

Analyst Predicts More Giants to Join the $4T Club

Wedbush tech analyst Daniel Ives told The Guardian that Nvidia and Microsoft are leading the AI wave and called them the “poster children for the AI revolution.” He added, “This is the biggest tech trend we have seen in our 25 years covering tech stocks on the Street.”

According to Ives, Microsoft may reach the $4 trillion valuation “this summer,” with a long-term focus shifting toward the $5 trillion milestone “as this tech bull market is still early being led by the AI revolution.”

GenAI and Agentic AI Deployed by BUSINESSNEXT to Speed Up Loan Approvals

July 9, 2025, 3:51 pm

BUSINESSNEXT has introduced its GenAI and Agentic AI assistants specific to the lending industry to simplify loan processing, aiding credit teams, and giving real-time feedback to borrowers. Banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) are using the AI-powered tools to handle rising loan volumes, comply with stricter regulations, and reduce operational complexities. As the global digital lending industry heads toward USD 20.5 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 14.6%, banks are prioritizing automation and expertise. BUSINESSNEXT's AI-driven solutions automate critical lending processes like document verification, fraud detection, risk assessment, and borrower communication.

AI-Powered Assistants Streamline Lending Workflows

These next-generation AI aids increase departmental efficiency—sales, operations, credit, and customer service. The Virtual Customer Agent is particularly impressive, helping borrowers in real time by reviewing financial information, qualifying them, and walking them through the loan application process. The KYC/KYB Agent streamlines onboarding through instant identity and business credentials verification. The Intelligent Document Processing Agent retrieves and verifies essential information from financial reports, minimizing manual paperwork and improving accuracy. For post-loan interaction, the Complaint Management Agent guarantees the timely resolution of borrower issues, enhancing customer satisfaction.

BFSI Expertise Drives Smart Automation at Scale

To enhance compliance and anti-fraud measures, the Banking Fraud Detection/Prevention Agent actively detects irregularities and denies fraudulent transactions. The Balance Sheet Analyzer assists credit teams in arriving at quicker, more precise loan decisions by reviewing business finances immediately. Rahul Sheth, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at BUSINESSNEXT, underlined the worth of the technology, "Lending processing takes time and is complicated, but AI-powered assistants simplify these processes. By automating the handling of applications, risk evaluation, and compliance testing, banks and NBFCs can expedite loan processing, lower costs, and provide customers with an improved experience." These AI agents use deep domain expertise in BFSI to provide context-sensitive, compliant, and scalable automation. These agents are capable of slashing operational expenses by as much as 80% with intelligent task automation, model selection, and borrower communication built on empathy. Rahul also added, "By combining GenAI and Agentic AI into lending platforms, banks and NBFCs can accelerate loan processing, improve the accuracy of credit assessment, and enhance borrower experiences, making lending more efficient, secure, and customer-focused."

Apple Appoints Sabih Khan as New Chief Operating Officer

July 9, 2025, 2:50 pm

Apple has officially named Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). He will succeed Jeff Williams, who has held the role for several years. Apple stated that this change is “part of a long-planned succession.”

Who Is Sabih Khan?

Sabih Khan was born in 1966 in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India. During his school years, he and his family moved to Singapore. Later, he relocated to the United States for higher studies and work.

His Academic Background

Khan completed his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University. He also earned a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

His Career at Apple

Khan joined Apple in 1995 and has been part of the company for nearly 30 years. He served in many roles during this time. According to Apple, he has “played an important role in delivering each of Apple’s innovative products to market.”

Before Apple, he worked at GE Plastics as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader.

Transition to COO Role

Currently, Khan serves as Apple’s Senior Vice President of Operations and reports directly to COO Jeff Williams. However, by the end of this month, he will officially take over as COO.

Although Williams will step down as COO, he will still be active at Apple. He will oversee the company’s design team and continue to lead Apple’s health-related initiatives.

What Tim Cook Said

Apple’s CEO Tim Cook praised Sabih Khan’s contributions and leadership. He said, “Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain.”

Cook added, “While overseeing Apple’s supply chain, he has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the United States, and helped ensure that Apple can be nimble in response to global challenges.”

He also noted that Khan has supported Apple’s strong push toward environmental sustainability.

Content Alone Isn’t Enough: Are GCC Businesses Leveraging Social Media Enough?

July 9, 2025, 2:46 pm

Have you noticed how the businesses in GCC are now heavily investing in content creation? The digital landscape is transforming with every passing moment. Now, you will find content everywhere, in every shape and form. Content is now the king in GCC, in the true meaning of the word. From breathtaking visuals, engaging blog posts, to branded content, you will find businesses splurge on good, well-thought-out content. But there’s one question marketers and decision-makers need to ask themselves: Is content alone enough to win in the digital era? The easy answer is "no." You're skipping a key part if you think that great content will find its audience on its own: a strong content marketing plan. Visibility is just as important as value in today's world of constant connectivity, where people get messages all the time on many different platforms. Everyone scrolls somewhere, like on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, or YouTube. Because of this, your content needs more than just creativity. It needs accuracy, time, and performance that is tailored to the medium. Many businesses now turn to a social media marketing agency to help bridge this gap—ensuring not just top-tier content creation, but also sharp audience targeting, platform-specific strategy, and real-time adaptation. Here's a closer look at how forward-thinking brands across the Gulf are doing more than just posting pretty pictures:

Multi-Language Meme Pages Are Tapping Into Fringe Communities

Think memes are just for teenagers? Think again. In the GCC, meme culture isn’t just entertainment, it’s a marketing vehicle. And the smartest brands are building multi-language meme pages in dialects like Khaleeji, Levantine, and Egyptian Arabic to tap into micro-communities. For example, a homegrown Qatari food delivery startup launched a dedicated meme account using Gulf Arabic slang, targeted specifically at Tier 2 city youth. The tone was casual, funny, and extremely local. No polished ads. No influencer hype. Just raw, relatable humor. The result? Far better engagement than their main brand handle. This grassroots approach built cultural relevance, virality, and long-term loyalty. Takeaway: Want attention in the Gulf? Speak the language and the dialect.

“Boring” B2B Brands Are Winning with Relatable Social Micro-Moments

B2B industries that used to be "boring," including logistics, healthcare, and industrial services, are suddenly getting a lot of attention on social media by using humour and real-life tales instead of jargon-heavy messages. According to the LinkedIn B2B Institute, 72% of B2B buyers read material that makes them laugh or feel something. This change is most obvious in the GCC, where logistics companies are making reels that highlight how messy the warehouse is, how SOPs fail, and what a typical day is like for team members. These little moments that people can relate to don't simply make them laugh; they also create trust. According to the material Marketing Institute, B2B organisations who use employee advocacy and behind-the-scenes material get twice as many people to interact with them on social media. Regional companies who use this method are getting more story responses, more organic followers, and even direct leads, all without spending more on paid marketing. Takeaway: If your industry is “boring,” your content shouldn't be. Relatable is not equal to unprofessional.

Private Communities Are Outperforming Public Likes

Likes and shares are public but conversion is often private. A growing number of GCC businesses are moving away from vanity metrics and instead building closed digital communities via:

Instagram Close Friends
WhatsApp broadcast groups
Telegram private channels

This is especially powerful in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, where high-net-worth individuals and VIP consumers prefer curated, exclusive content drops over public timelines. One luxury beauty brand in the region shifted budget away from feed content and began offering early product reveals, invite-only promos, and private polls on their Instagram Close Friends list. The impact? They saw higher conversions from these private Stories than from their entire feed combined. Takeaway: In the Gulf, exclusivity drives engagement and sales.

UGC Scripts & Templates Are Empowering Everyday Creators

Telling users to “tag us” is outdated. Empowering them to co-create with your brand is the real magic. Smart brands across fashion, beauty, and tech in the GCC are handing users reel templates, audio clips, hook-lines, and scripting cues, essentially giving them the tools to recreate branded content, their way. One Saudi electronics company launched a “Day in the Life with Our Smartwatch” campaign. But instead of hiring influencers, they created a pre-written voiceover script, a reel format template, and a sample structure. Result? Over 1,000 UGC entries in a week without paying a single influencer. This content was not only authentic, but also widely shared, especially among younger users. Takeaway: Give your audience the scaffold, they’ll build the narrative for you.

Long Captions and Arabic/English Carousels Are Making a Comeback

Short-form video might dominate algorithms, but that doesn’t mean users are done reading especially when content is meaningful. Across the GCC, brands are now leaning into dual-language (Arabic + English) carousels paired with long-form captions. The tone? A blend of LinkedIn-style thought leadership and Instagram storytelling. Types of high-performing posts include:

Founder’s personal POVs
Brand myth-busting (e.g., “Why We Don’t Offer Discounts”)
Customer case studies
Deep dives into product decisions

This works especially well when paired with visual slides that simplify complex ideas. Bonus: these posts have higher dwell time, more saves, and better DM response rates than static photos or short reels. Takeaway: In a region that respects both Arabic and English fluency, content depth (and duality) creates trust.

Hyperlocal Geo-Memeing Is Winning Subcultures

Blanket “Dubai-wide” campaigns may get impressions, but hyper-targeted geo-personality content is what’s actually going viral. Brands are tapping into neighborhood identities to create shareable, localized content. Think:

“Marina girl vs. Deira guy”
“Riyadh office life vs. Jeddah remote work culture”
“Sharjah student vs. Dubai startup bro”

This type of geo-memeing sparks pride, community discourse, and most importantly, shares. It’s no surprise this strategy is especially resonant with Gen Z, who crave specificity, cultural cues, and humor that “gets them.” Takeaway: In GCC cities bursting with diversity, hyperlocal > hyperloud.

Final Word:

The Gulf is evolving. So should your social strategy. From meme culture to micro-communities, scriptable UGC to private content drops, brands that win in the GCC are those that go beyond visibility and lean into real value. So if your social media playbook still revolves around polished posts and big-name influencers, it’s time to pivot. Because in the world of social media marketing in the GCC, content is just the starting line.

Trump Slaps 50% Tariff on Copper Imports, Hints at 200% Duties on Medicines

July 9, 2025, 8:53 am

US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on copper imports on Tuesday. This move follows earlier tariffs he placed on steel and aluminum. Moreover, Trump warned that tariffs on imported medicines could rise to 200% after a year.

India’s Copper and Pharma Trade Could Take a Hit

As a result, India may face trade challenges. During 2024–25, India exported $2 billion worth of copper products globally. Out of that, $360 million, or 17%, went to the United States.

Furthermore, the U.S. is India’s biggest market for pharmaceuticals. India’s drug exports to the U.S. grew to $9.8 billion in FY25, rising 21% from the previous year’s $8.1 billion. Currently, the U.S. accounts for 40% of India’s total pharma exports.

More Tariffs Coming on Medicines and Chips

In addition, Trump said he plans to impose new tariffs on imported semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. However, he added that companies would get some time to adjust.

“We’re going to give people about a year, a year and a half to come in and, after that, they’re going to be tariffed,” Trump stated during a Cabinet meeting at the White House.

Therefore, foreign drugmakers and chip producers will have up to 18 months to prepare for these new duties.

Jack Dorsey Unveils Offline Messaging App ‘Bitchat’

July 8, 2025, 2:15 pm

Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter and current CEO of Block, has introduced a new app called Bitchat. What makes it different? It lets people send messages without needing the internet.

The app uses Bluetooth instead of Wi-Fi or mobile data. Users can send messages directly to nearby phones, even when there’s no network available. The goal, according to reports, is to keep people connected during internet shutdowns or poor connectivity.

What Exactly Is Bitchat?

Dorsey revealed the beta version of Bitchat on Sunday via Apple’s TestFlight. He also shared a white paper on GitHub explaining how it works.

“It’s a personal experiment,” Dorsey wrote on X (formerly Twitter), adding that he’s testing “Bluetooth mesh networks, relays and store and forward models, message encryption models, and a few other things.”

https://twitter.com/jack/status/1941989435962212728

How Does It Work?

Bitchat runs on Bluetooth mesh networks, so users don’t need to create accounts or share phone numbers or emails. As people move around, their phones form local Bluetooth groups that pass messages to others nearby. This allows messages to travel across distances, even reaching people outside the immediate range.

The messages are encrypted, stored only on user devices, and automatically disappear unless saved. They never pass through a central server, ensuring better privacy and censorship resistance.

Dorsey said Bitchat supports messages that can travel up to 300 metres (984 feet) by bouncing from one device to another. Some phones even act as bridges between groups, helping the messages spread farther.

Perfect for Emergencies and Protests

The Guardian report compared Bitchat to the Bluetooth apps used during the 2019 Hong Kong protests, which helped people communicate even when authorities shut down the internet.

Users can create group chats, known as “rooms,” and lock them with passwords. The app also supports a “store-and-forward” feature. If someone is offline, Bitchat holds the message and delivers it once they reconnect.

An upcoming update will bring WiFi Direct, improving speed and reach.

No Accounts, No Tracking

Unlike WhatsApp or Messenger, Bitchat does not rely on any central company. It collects no user data, requires no sign-up, and functions completely peer-to-peer.

Dorsey hopes this move will “encourage bigger platforms to adopt more private, user-controlled tools.”

Beta Filled Instantly

After sharing the TestFlight link, all 10,000 beta slots were claimed quickly. Dorsey also posted a link to GitHub and a “very ugly whitepaper describing protocol.”

The whitepaper describes Bitchat as, “A decentralised, peer-to-peer messaging application that operates over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) mesh networks. It provides ephemeral, encrypted communication without relying on internet infrastructure, making it resilient to network outages and censorship.”

What's Next?

The app is now under review before its official release. While it's unclear if Bitchat will gain mainstream attention, it’s already making waves among tech-savvy users and privacy advocates.

Who Is Jack Dorsey?

Dorsey is currently the CEO of Block, a financial tech company he co-founded. Block owns Cash App and Square, offering digital payments and point-of-sale solutions.

Amazon Calls on Corporate Staff in NYC to Support Deliveries Ahead of Prime Day

July 8, 2025, 1:56 pm

As Amazon gears up for its much-awaited Prime Day sales event, the company has asked corporate staff in New York City to volunteer at its grocery warehouse and help with deliveries.

Message to Office Employees

According to The Guardian, Amazon sent a Slack message to thousands of its white-collar employees, ranging from engineers to marketing staff. The message came from an Amazon area manager who asked for “volunteers to help us out with Prime Day to deliver to customers on our biggest days yet.”

So far, it's unclear how many employees agreed to volunteer.

What Will Volunteers Do?

Those who volunteer must work at the Amazon Fresh warehouse in Brooklyn. They are expected to put in two-hour shifts between 10 am and 6 pm, from Tuesday through Friday this week. Their tasks will include:

Picking up grocery items
Preparing carts and delivery bags
Packing items into boxes on carts

During these tasks, employees will still be allowed to attend meetings and take work calls. The company said this effort would also allow corporate and warehouse teams to “connect”.

Not a New Move

Amazon spokesperson Griffin Buch said this isn’t the first time the company has asked office staff to assist in warehouses before a big sales event.

He explained, “This support is entirely optional, and it allows corporate employees to get closer to customers while enabling our store teams to focus on the work that’s most impactful.”

Prime Day Brings Massive Demand

Each year, Amazon prepares for Prime Day by hiring thousands of extra warehouse workers. The event, known for its major discounts, creates a huge spike in orders and deliveries.

This year, Amazon Fresh—the grocery delivery service exclusive to Prime members—is also joining the sale with special deals. This service operates separately from Amazon’s Whole Foods chain.

PM Modi Highlights UPI Expansion at BRICS as India’s Digital Payments Go Global

July 7, 2025, 1:02 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez on Sunday on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, focusing on boosting cooperation in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, traditional medicine, and digital infrastructure, especially Unified Payment Interface (UPI).

According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, “PM Narendra Modi met with President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez of Cuba on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Both leaders exchanged views on various facets of India-Cuba relationship including in the areas of economic cooperation, biotechnology, pharma, Ayurveda and traditional medicine, Digital Public Infrastructure and UPI, disaster management, and capacity building.”

UPI Makes Waves in the Caribbean and Beyond

The discussion on UPI comes just days after Trinidad and Tobago became the first Caribbean nation to adopt India’s flagship digital payment platform during PM Modi’s historic visit — the first bilateral trip by an Indian Prime Minister to the country in 26 years.

In another milestone during his recent Ghana visit, Modi addressed the nation's Parliament and emphasised growing trade ties while offering to share India's fintech experience.

“In the field of FinTech, India is ready to share its experience of UPI digital payments with Ghana,” he stated.

UPI’s Global Expansion Strategy Gains Momentum

India's digital payment system, led by UPI, has emerged as a model for financial inclusion and digital transformation worldwide. The platform currently processes over 100 billion transactions annually. In 2024, France became the first European country to adopt UPI on a wide scale, with more countries joining since.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has actively facilitated the platform’s global use. It introduced UPI Global Acceptance, which enables QR code-based payments at select international merchants directly from Indian bank accounts via UPI-powered apps.

‘Digital India’ Marks a Decade of Impact

Highlighting the success of India’s digital revolution, PM Modi remarked, “From how we govern, to how we learn, transact, and build, Digital India is everywhere,”during the 10-year celebration of the Digital India initiative on July 1.

Currently, UPI is operational in seven countries: the UAE, Singapore, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, France, and Mauritius.

“India Stack, which is our digital backbone, has enabled platforms like UPI, which now handles 100+ billion transactions a year. Around half of all real time digital transactions happen in India,” PM Modi said.

The meeting with the Cuban President adds to the growing momentum of UPI’s global acceptance and India's vision of digital diplomacy.

Azoria Delays Tesla ETF Launch After Musk’s Political Move

July 6, 2025, 1:53 pm

Investment company Azoria Partners has decided to delay the launch of its Azoria Tesla Convexity ETF, following Elon Musk’s surprise announcement of a new political party. Musk, the CEO of Tesla, revealed on social media platform X that he is starting the “America Party”, just a day after conducting an online poll.

In his post, Musk wrote, “Today the America Party is formed to give you back your freedom.”

ETF Launch Put on Hold

Azoria had initially planned to launch the ETF the following week. The new fund was set to invest directly in Tesla’s stocks and options. However, after Musk made his political intentions public, Azoria CEO James Fishback criticized the move and announced a postponement.

Fishback shared his concerns on X, where he openly questioned Musk’s new direction and reasserted his own support for President Donald Trump. He later urged the Azoria board to meet urgently and stated:

“I encourage the Board to meet immediately and ask Elon to clarify his political ambitions and evaluate whether they are compatible with his full-time obligations to Tesla as CEO.”

Investor Concerns Rise

Fishback also said Musk’s announcement had shaken investor confidence, especially since Musk previously stepped away from leading the Department of Government Efficiency in May. The uncertainty around Musk’s focus on Tesla has raised doubts about the company’s stability in the financial markets.

So far, Tesla has not responded to Reuters’ request for a statement on the matter.

Political Context

Musk’s announcement came just one day after President Trump signed a major tax and spending bill into law—a bill that Musk had strongly criticized. Musk’s opposition to the legislation may have played a role in his decision to form a political party.

About Azoria’s Other Fund

Apart from the Tesla ETF, Azoria also manages the Azoria 500 Meritocracy ETF. According to the company’s website, this fund invests only in the top 500 U.S. companies that do not follow diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) hiring policies.

Union Civil Aviation Minister meets Shankh Air Chairman to discuss aviation sector initiatives

July 6, 2025, 12:37 pm

Sharvan Vishwakarma, Chairman of Shankh Air, met the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, for an engaging discussion on the dynamic and fast-growing Indian aviation sector. With rising passenger demand, expanding regional connectivity, and transformative policy initiatives reshaping the industry, Mr. Vishwakarma shared Shankh Air’s vision and strategic roadmap to contribute meaningfully to this growth story. He conveyed his sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Minister for his time, valuable insights, and encouragement in supporting the airline’s aspirations aligned with the nation’s aviation goals. As Uttar Pradesh charts a new course of development, Shankh Air is preparing to play its part in connecting the state’s people and possibilities. Positioning itself as more than just another airline, Shankh Air embodies the aspirations and determination of Uttar Pradesh. With a vision to make travel faster and more accessible, boost opportunities for local businesses, and contribute to the state’s overall growth, the airline aims to strengthen regional air connectivity and open new doors for economic development. When it takes to the skies, it will do more than connect cities — it will carry with it the hopes, aspirations, and future of an empowered Uttar Pradesh.

Iran’s Oil Industry Booms Despite Harsh US Sanctions

July 5, 2025, 2:46 pm

Iran remains one of the most heavily sanctioned countries in the world. However, its economy—especially the energy sector—is booming. Recent data shows that Iran’s oil and gas industry is reaching historic highs, defying years of global restrictions.

Sanctions Still in Place but Losing Impact

This week, the United States imposed fresh sanctions targeting a smuggling network accused of disguising Iranian oil as Iraqi oil. The US also penalized a financial institution linked to Hezbollah, the Treasury Department confirmed.

Still, many experts argue these sanctions are now largely symbolic. As author Agathe Demarais told NPR, “The reality is that sanctions are sometimes effective, but most often not, and it is hard to accurately predict when they will work.”

Even though Iran was once the most sanctioned country—until Russia took that title in 2022—its energy success tells a different story.

Oil Production Hits Record Levels

Iran’s oil production is thriving despite international pressure. In 2024, oil output reached a 46-year high, and it's expected to grow even more in 2025.

The country also earned $78 billion in energy exports in 2024. That’s a huge jump from $18 billion in 2020. This growth shows how Iran has skillfully adapted over the years.

How Iran Outsmarted Sanctions

Iran’s ability to bypass sanctions stems from a mix of factors. These include shifting US political strategies, Iran’s creative trade tactics, and China’s increasing role in global trade.

At times, the US chose not to enforce sanctions strictly. This decision helped keep global oil prices stable and inflation under control. Meanwhile, Iran and China built a reliable system that bypasses international rules.

Expanding Beyond Oil

Iran didn’t just depend on crude oil. It diversified its energy exports, producing more condensates and natural gas liquids like ethane, butane, and propane. These products now bring in large amounts of foreign currency.

Iran owns the second-largest natural gas reserves in the world and ranks third in production after Russia and the US. Its biggest gas field, South Pars, located in Bushehr province, contributes 66% of the country's total gas output. Iran shares this gas field with Qatar, where it’s called the North Field.

Domestic Strength with Military Support

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) played a crucial role in building domestic infrastructure. This move helped Iran process and export energy products independently, without needing help from foreign companies.

China: The Key Customer

China has emerged as Iran’s most important oil buyer. It now purchases about 90% of Iran’s oil exports. The two countries have built a sanctions-proof trade system, using non-dollar payments and discreet shipping routes.

Even though Chinese customs stopped officially reporting Iranian oil imports in 2022, shipping data tells a different story. According to Kpler, China’s Iranian oil imports nearly doubled in 2024 to 17.8 million barrels per day, compared to 2022.

Geopolitical Tensions Don’t Slow Output

Despite tensions between Iran and Israel, Iran’s oil production hasn’t suffered. When facilities are damaged, they are repaired quickly. The US has also stepped in to prevent broader disruptions in the global energy market.

Conclusion: Sanctions Losing Their Grip

Iran’s oil sector has become stronger than ever. The country continues to earn billions from exports, thanks to support from China, military-led development, and clever strategies. As a result, Western sanctions now appear ineffective, allowing Iran to secure a steady flow of petrodollars.

Microsoft Confirms Fresh Layoffs, 4% of Employees to Lose Jobs Worldwide

July 2, 2025, 8:48 pm

Microsoft on Wednesday announced that it is cutting thousands of workers, its second large-scale layoff in months.

4% of Workforce Affected, Estimated 9,000 Jobs Cut in Microsoft

The company would not comment on the number of employees who would be cut, but said it would represent less than 4% of the number of employees it had a year ago, which would translate to about 9,000 workers, according to the Associated Press. Microsoft announced the layoffs will touch several teams across the world, including its sales team and its Xbox video game unit.

Company Cites Strategic Realignment in Volatile Market

“We continue to implement organizational changes necessary to best position the company and teams for success in a dynamic marketplace,” it said in a statement. "Even in the best of times, we have regularly adjusted our workforce to meet the strategic demands of the business," the company added, according to AFP.

King Unit and ZeniMax Among Affected European Offices

Microsoft's Stockholm-based King unit, which produces the hit game Candy Crush, is laying off 10% of its workforce, or around 200 workers, Bloomberg reported citing individuals familiar with the plans. Other European offices, including ZeniMax, also started notifying workers that layoffs were under way.

Microsoft Already Laid Off 6,000 Employees in May

The firm, which employed around 228,000 people globally as of June 2024, had already made the cut in May when it laid off some 6,000 employees. That round of layoff was the second-largest since 2023, when around 10,000 jobs were cut, as Microsoft made a turnaround towards AI to keep ahead of the competition. In April, Microsoft notified staff that it would be outsourcing more software sales to small and mid-sized clients to third-party companies. It said it periodically examines its organisational make-up so that investments are kept in line with long-term growth.

US Dollar Suffers Worst Start Since 1973—Here’s What Caused the Slump

July 2, 2025, 5:24 pm

The US dollar index plunged 10.8% between January and June 2025 — its worst first-half performance since 1973, the year the Bretton Woods system collapsed. This steep decline marks the weakest showing for the dollar in over three years and has sparked a global reassessment of US economic stability. The depreciation has affected investors, governments, as well as consumers, making it difficult for capital flows and trade dynamics and questioning the long-term strength of the dollar.

Trump's 'Liberation Day' Tariffs Cause Market Mayhem

The rout started after President Donald Trump unleashed blanket tariffs on April 2, dubbing it "Liberation Day." The bold action — much wider than anticipated — set off a selloff in markets. In three days, $5 trillion was erased from the S&P 500 index. Even after Trump suspended most tariffs (all except China) on April 9 for 90 days, investor confidence was still shaken. Treasury yields surged as investors offloaded government bonds, increasing the borrowing cost.

Debt Explosion Under the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act'

The other primary reason for the dollar's decline is Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." The bill seeks to continue tax cuts of 2017, cut welfare and healthcare expenditures, and boost borrowing heavily. Republicans expect to move the bill through Congress by the July 4 holiday, while the Congressional Budget Office estimates it will raise federal debt by $3.3 trillion by 2034. Deficits will rise to 6.9% of GDP, making fiscal pressures more severe. Moody's cut the US credit rating in May based on governance issues and deteriorating debt trends — further weakening world investor confidence in US assets.

Federal Reserve Rate Cuts Expected

Trump has publicly asked the Federal Reserve to reduce interest rates in the wake of signs of slowing economy. Markets now expect two to five cuts in rates by the end of 2025. While equity markets rallied, the weaker dollar diluted foreigners' returns. For example, the 24% gain in S&P 500 is only 15% when calculated in euros.

Safe-Haven Status Diminished

Investors and central banks are shedding their exposure to US assets. Money is pouring into European markets and alternatives such as gold, which hit new highs on the back of central bank purchases and dollar concern. The OECD downgraded its US growth forecast in June, reducing it from 2.2% to 1.6%, due to fiscal risks and weakening momentum.

Effect on Americans: Travel, Trade, Inflation

For US consumers, the lower dollar results in more expensive imports and foreign vacations. While US exports become competitive, unstable tariffs create uncertainty for gains in trade. With fewer dollars in circulation in world trade, investment in US assets also declines. Analysts contend that while the dollar began 2025 at high levels — tempering some of the descent — the conjunction of policy uncertainty, debt growth, and rate pressure indicates a turnaround is unlikely without profound reforms.

Trump Hints at Trade Deal with India Featuring Lower Tariffs

July 2, 2025, 10:51 am

US President Donald Trump has suggested that India and the United States are close to finalizing a trade deal. He believes this agreement will lower tariffs and promote fair competition between the two countries.

Trump Signals Confidence in Talks

While speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Tuesday, Trump said, “I think we are going to have a deal with India. And that is going to be a different kind of a deal. It is going to be a deal where we are able to go in and compete. Right now, India does not accept anybody in. I think India is going to do that, and if they do that, we are going to have a deal for much less tariffs.”

Thus, Trump expressed confidence that both sides will reach an agreement.

Deadline for Tariff Pause Approaches

Currently, both nations are racing against the clock. Trump’s 90-day pause on the so-called 'Liberation Day' tariffs will expire on July 9. If the deal isn’t signed by then, a 26% tariff on Indian goods will kick in. As a result, the window for fresh negotiations will shrink significantly.

Indian Delegation Extends Stay in Washington

Meanwhile, India’s trade team, led by chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal, is still in Washington. According to reports from ANI, the delegation has extended its stay to continue working on the deal. Their goal is to reach a final agreement before the fast-approaching deadline.

Talks Stuck Over Dairy and Agriculture

However, the discussions have reached a stalemate. The main obstacle is India’s refusal to open its dairy sector to foreign products. Notably, India has never allowed any trade partner to access this sensitive area.

In addition, the U.S. is demanding reduced duties on items like apples, tree nuts, and genetically modified crops.

On the other hand, India is seeking better access to U.S. markets for its textiles, garments, gems, leather goods, and farm products such as shrimp, oilseeds, bananas, and grapes.

White House Hints at Progress

Despite the deadlock, both sides remain hopeful. Recently, the White House stated, “President Trump-PM Modi ties strong, US-India trade deal announcement soon.”

Therefore, although several issues remain unresolved, leaders from both countries seem eager to finalize the agreement.

Musk’s Starlink Moves Closer to Indian Launch, X Clashes with Government in Court

July 2, 2025, 9:41 am

Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, is getting closer to launching in India. The company has cleared most regulatory and licensing hurdles and now awaits final approval to begin operations.

Starlink Close to Launch, Says IN-SPACe Chief

Pawan Goenka, the Chairman of India’s space agency IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre), confirmed that Starlink is progressing well. However, some technical and procedural work still remains.

“Even after authorisation, it will take a few months for the service to become operational,” Goenka told NDTV. He shared this update after a meeting with Gwynne Shotwell, the President and COO of SpaceX.

Goenka added that the final approvals should be granted in the coming days.

Starlink’s Four-Year Wait Nears an End

SpaceX has been trying to enter India’s massive telecom market since 2021. With almost 100 crore (1 billion) users, India is one of the largest digital markets in the world.

Earlier this month, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) gave its green light to Starlink. This marked a major step forward after nearly four years of discussions and delays.

Sources from DoT told NDTV that Starlink may begin offering services in India with a bandwidth capacity of 600 to 700 Gbps.

Currently, Starlink provides internet in over 100 countries, including many in Asia. These include Mongolia, Japan, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Jordan, Yemen, Azerbaijan, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

X Faces Legal Trouble in Indian Court

While Starlink moves forward, Elon Musk’s other company, X (formerly Twitter), is facing legal trouble in India. The issue involves a courtroom battle over content takedown orders from the Indian government.

During a hearing on Tuesday, X’s lawyer, KG Raghavan, criticized the process. He said that every government official had the power to request content removals. “Every ‘Tom, Dick, and Harry’ government official had been authorised to issue content takedown orders,” he told the court.

His statement sparked a strong reaction from the Indian government’s lawyer. The hearing is part of X’s legal challenge against what it calls a “censorship portal”—a government-run website that allows officials to request content removal.

The Indian government, however, claims the website is meant only to notify companies quickly about their legal duties.

As an example, Raghavan mentioned a notice X received from the railways department, demanding the removal of a video that showed a car driving on a railway track. He said, “That was news, but the government found it unlawful.”

Digital India Now a People’s Movement, Says FM Sitharaman

July 1, 2025, 12:56 pm

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Tuesday that Digital India has grown beyond a government project and become a people’s movement. She posted on X that the initiative plays a key role in building an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and making India a trusted innovation partner for the world.

She added, “From bringing internet access to remote corners of the country to making government services available online, the 'Digital India' initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led-government has truly bridged the digital divide across the nation.”

Moreover, she highlighted India’s digital payments success. “Scan. Pay. Done. India’s UPI revolution powers nearly half of the world’s real-time digital transactions,” she wrote.

https://twitter.com/nsitharamanoffc/status/1939903994471592173

India Shifts Toward Global Digital Leadership

Meanwhile, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal praised major programs like UPI, DBT, GeM, ONDC, and SVAMITVA. He said these initiatives show how India is moving from digital governance to global digital leadership.

In addition, he quoted Prime Minister Modi on X, stating, “When the intent is right, innovation empowers the less empowered.”

https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1939908963606409495

PM Modi Reflects on India’s Digital Journey

On LinkedIn, Prime Minister Modi called Digital India central to self-reliance and essential to India’s global tech image. He said, “Digital India is central to building an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', and to making India a trusted innovation partner to the world.”

Furthermore, he addressed innovators directly. “To all innovators, entrepreneurs, and dreamers: the world is looking at India for the next digital breakthrough,” he said.

Reflecting on the past decade, Modi added, “While decades were spent doubting the ability of Indians to use technology, we changed this approach and trusted the ability of Indians to use technology.”

Digital India Boosts Farmers

Additionally, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said Digital India has revolutionised agriculture. He praised eNAM for helping farmers connect directly with buyers across the country.

He shared, “With Rs 4 lakh crore in trade and 1.7 crore farmers empowered across 1,400+ mandis, the impact is real. A bold leap under the visionary leadership of PM Modi.”

Judge Rules Apple Must Face DOJ Antitrust Lawsuit

July 1, 2025, 12:31 pm

A U.S. federal judge ruled on Monday that Apple must face an antitrust lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), according to reports. The court rejected Apple’s motion to dismiss the case.

DOJ Claims Apple Blocks Competition

The DOJ, along with multiple U.S. states and Washington, D.C., accused Apple of using “restrictive policies” to keep control over the smartphone market. According to the lawsuit, Apple’s actions “stifle competition” and “discourage users from switching to rival devices.”

The DOJ also claimed Apple limits third-party smartwatches, messaging apps, and digital wallets, making it harder for consumers to leave the Apple ecosystem. Officials argue that these barriers “harm broader competition” and lock users in.

Apple Denies the Allegations

In response, an Apple spokesperson said the lawsuit is “wrong on the facts and the law.” The company insisted that its policies aim to protect “user experience and security.” Apple confirmed it would “continue to fight the case vigorously in court.”

Tech Giants Under Scrutiny

Meanwhile, this lawsuit is part of a broader U.S. crackdown on Big Tech. Other companies like Meta, Amazon, and Alphabet also face legal action over alleged monopolistic behavior. Regulators say they want to create a “more competitive and fair” digital marketplace.

Starbucks Unveils Firework Frappuccino for July 4th, Here’s When You Can Get It

June 30, 2025, 9:37 pm

Starbucks is celebrating the Fourth of July with a new festive drink that's filled with patriotic spirit. Beginning Tuesday, July 1, the coffee chain is rolling out the limited-time Fireworks Frappuccino. It is a red, white, and blue celebratory blended drink based on the US national flag.

What’s Inside the Fireworks Frappuccino?

Starbucks released a new Fireworks Frappuccino to celebrate the Fourth of July. The red, white, and blue Frappuccino is made using the Starbucks Summer-Berry Refresher. This vibrant drink blends coconut milk with raspberry-flavored pearls. The combination creates a fizzy, candy-like flavor. It is then topped with a swirl of strawberry purée. A dollop of creamy vanilla sweet cream cold foam adds a sweet, celebratory finish. This colorful creation, according to USA Today, captures the festive spirit of the holiday.

Inspiration Behind the Drink for Starbucks

In a press release, Starbucks product manager, Amanda Conaway, who helped in the creation of the drink, described the refresher as “a summer vacation in a cup.” She added, “From the popping pearls to the creamy vanilla sweet cream, it’s a vibrant, textured beverage inspired by the sights and sounds of summer."

Limited-Time Availability and What’s Next

Yet the holiday cocktail is available for just seven days beginning July 1, i.e., Monday, July 7. The Firework Frappuccino is only the start of Starbucks' July drink offerings. It's one of four new frappuccinos the coffee shop has previewed to roll out this summer. While the red, white, and blue-colored Firework Frappuccino debuts just before Independence Day, three others are set to follow later this month. These include the Salted Caramel Mocha Strato Frappuccino, the Strawberry Matcha Strato Frappuccino, and the Brown Sugar Strato Frappuccino. Each is touted to deliver bold, stacked flavors to keep customers caffeinated and cool during the summer season. Sweet surprises are in store for fans as July progresses.

Google Launches Gemma 3n: Powerful Open-Source AI Model That Runs on 2GB RAM

June 27, 2025, 3:16 pm

Google has officially launched Gemma 3n, the latest addition to its open-source Gemma 3 AI model family, designed specifically for on-device use with as little as 2GB RAM. This breakthrough makes it one of the most lightweight yet capable AI models available, potentially usable on smartphones and other low-resource hardware.

A Multimodal, Mobile-First AI Model

Gemma 3n is a multimodal AI model, meaning it can process images, audio, video, and text as input, while generating only text outputs. The model is multilingual, supporting text in 140 languages and multimodal inputs in 35 languages, making it suitable for a wide range of global applications.

Powered by MatFormer: A Nested Transformer Architecture

Built on Google’s new Matryoshka Transformer (MatFormer) architecture, Gemma 3n uses a nested transformer design—much like Russian nesting dolls—allowing for simultaneous training of different parameter models.

Gemma 3n E2B has 2 billion effective parameters
Gemma 3n E4B has 4 billion effective parameters

Though the total size of the models may be 5B and 8B respectively, only the essential parameters are activated during execution, thanks to a technique called Per-Layer Embeddings (PLE).

Customization and Developer Tools

For developers, Google introduced MatFormer Lab, a tool that lets users customize model sizes by tweaking internal parameters—ideal for building task-specific lightweight AI systems. Developers can access the model through:

Gemma 3n models can also be directly deployed to Cloud Run via AI Studio.

Why Gemma 3n Matters

With increasing demand for AI that works offline or on low-resource devices, Google’s Gemma 3n sets a new standard for efficiency without compromising power. It empowers developers and businesses to create AI applications that are faster, more secure, and more private, all while running locally on edge devices.

Mahindra to Unveil All-New NU Vehicle Platform on August 15

June 27, 2025, 1:33 pm

Mahindra is preparing to make a major announcement this Independence Day. On August 15, 2025, the automaker will unveil its next-generation vehicle platform, likely named NU, in Mumbai. This platform, previously referred to as NFA (New Flexible Architecture), is expected to shape Mahindra's future across multiple vehicle segments.

Teaser Hints at ICE and EV Compatibility

Mahindra Automotive, responsible for its ICE vehicle range, released a teaser clip across its social media channels. Interestingly, the teaser includes Mahindra Electric Origin SUV branding and related hashtags, suggesting the NU platform may support both ICE and electric models. This points to a flexible architecture capable of underpinning petrol, diesel, hybrid, and all-electric powertrains, allowing Mahindra to streamline production for a wider range of vehicles from a common platform.

Built for the Future at Chakan Plant

The NU platform is set to be manufactured at Mahindra’s Chakan plant, which is undergoing upgrades to support higher production volumes and future-ready technologies. The new platform could significantly improve modularity, efficiency, and adaptability across Mahindra’s lineup.

Could Debut with Next-Gen Bolero or Thar Sports

While the platform details remain under wraps, speculation suggests it may debut with the upcoming new-generation Bolero or a new variant like the Thar Sports. Both models are currently under development and testing. The NU platform is believed to be a monocoque structure, offering a fresh approach compared to Mahindra’s traditional body-on-frame SUVs.

Hybrid Strategy in the Works?

There are growing whispers that Mahindra may also enter the hybrid vehicle space, focusing on range-extender plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) rather than conventional strong hybrids. This approach could offer a longer electric-only range and cater to evolving consumer demands.

Independence Day Tradition Continues

Mahindra has consistently chosen August 15 to showcase breakthrough innovations, from concept reveals to new vehicles. This year, instead of new model launches, the spotlight will be on the NU platform, signaling Mahindra’s shift toward modular, scalable, and electrified mobility.

Venice Wedding for Show? Bezos and Sanchez Reportedly Married Weeks Ago

June 27, 2025, 11:39 am

Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez have arrived in Venice, Italy, reportedly to kick off celebrations for their wedding. However, a new report suggests that the couple may have already tied the knot.

Secret Marriage Happened in the U.S.

According to The Daily Mail, Bezos and Sanchez got married over a month ago. Sources linked to the event told the publication that the couple had already exchanged vows in a private ceremony held in the United States, under American law.

While planning their celebration in Italy, both were reportedly clear that they were already legally married.

No Marriage License in Italy

The couple did not file for a marriage license in Italy, according to city officials. As a result, their upcoming event in Venice won’t be legally recognized under Italian law.

The Times of London reported that Venetian authorities received no formal request from the couple to marry in the city. This rules out the possibility of an official civil wedding taking place there.

Massive Prenup Protects Bezos’s Wealth

Meanwhile, Page Six revealed that Bezos and Sanchez have signed a huge prenuptial agreement. The agreement is designed to protect Jeff Bezos’s $244 billion fortune.

Three high-profile divorce lawyers told Page Six that the prenup will be legally valid anywhere, regardless of where the wedding ceremony takes place.

Florida Residency Dictates Divorce Terms

A Florida-based attorney told Page Six that Florida is the couple’s primary residence. Therefore, if the couple ever divorces, it must be legally filed in Florida.

“Likewise, if they left Florida and moved to New York as a primary residence they would have to divorce in NY,”said the attorney.

No City Involvement in the Wedding

An Italian source quoted in the report said that no municipal authorities were involved in the couple’s Venice event.

According to the source, the Culture Commissioner—a member of Mayor Luigi Brugnaro’s council—confirmed that no city-owned spaces would be used for any part of the celebration.

By Italian law, weddings must happen in a town hall or a city-authorized venue. But officials said there were no applications submitted by the couple, which confirms that no legal wedding is happening under Italian jurisdiction.

Elon Musk Bans Hashtags in X Ads, Calls Them an ‘Aesthetic Nightmare’

June 26, 2025, 4:53 pm

Elon Musk has announced that hashtags will no longer be allowed in advertisements on X (formerly Twitter), starting tomorrow. Calling them an “aesthetic nightmare,” Musk confirmed the decision in a post that left many users surprised—and divided.

Why the Ban?

Musk has long criticised hashtags, stating they are no longer necessary. In 2024, he described them as "ugly" and asked users to stop using them, explaining that X’s AI-powered discovery tools—especially its chatbot Grok—can now group content without relying on hashtags.

Not All Hashtags—Just Ads

This new policy applies only to advertisements, not regular posts. While some users welcomed the move, calling hashtags the “Comic Sans of social media,” others felt Musk should focus on deeper issues like shadow bans and algorithm transparency.

Another Step in the X Overhaul

Hashtags have been a core part of Twitter since 2007, used to group trends and conversations. But Musk's leadership continues to redefine the platform—from branding changes to content policies—making this yet another significant shift in how X looks and functions.

User Reactions Mixed

While some praised the cleanup of "visual pollution," others criticized Musk for focusing on aesthetics instead of functionality. Still, the change underscores his commitment to reshaping X’s user experience and advertising standards. This move reflects Musk’s ongoing mission to modernize X, leaning on AI over tradition—and leaving behind the iconic.

Piyush Goyal reviews PLI scheme, emphasises need for self-reliance and export competitiveness

June 25, 2025, 10:21 pm

India must focus on the sectors in which it has a competitive edge over other countries and address the problems faced by the various stakeholders so that the country's exports can grow, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said at the review meeting on the Production Linked Incentive Scheme. Goyal urged the need to become self-reliant in the key sectors covered under the PLI Scheme. Emphasising that the Ministries should focus on creating quality skilled manpower instead of focusing on quantity and resolving infrastructure bottlenecks in collaboration with the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC), Goyal stressed the need to prepare a roadmap for the next five years, both for investment and disbursement. All the concerned ministries attended the meeting. The PLI Scheme is under various stages of implementation in 14 key sectors. The scheme has witnessed investments worth Rs 1.76 lakh crores, which has generated production/ sales of over Rs 16.5 lakh crores and employment of over 12 lakhs (Direct and Indirect) till March 2025. A cumulative incentive amount of Rs 21,534 crore has been disbursed under PLI Schemes for 12 Sectors: Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing (LSEM), IT Hardware, Bulk Drugs, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, Telecom and Networking Products, Food Processing, White Goods, Automobiles and Auto components, Specialty Steel, Textiles, drones, and Drone Components. "The impact of PLI Schemes has been significant across various sectors in India. These schemes have incentivised domestic manufacturing, leading to increased production, job creation and a boost in exports," the commerce ministry said. Pharmaceutical Drugs: The sector has witnessed cumulative sales of Rs 2.66 lakh crore, which includes exports of Rs 1.70 lakh crore, in the first three years of the scheme. Export sales of eligible products under the scheme for 2024-25 were Rs 0.67 lakh crore, which is approximately 27 per cent of the country's total pharma exports during the same period. The approved companies have undertaken 40 per cent of the total investment (Rs 37,306 crore), amounting to Rs 15,102 crore in Research and Development (R&D) for eligible products under the scheme. The overall Domestic Value Addition in the Sector has been 83.70 per cent as of March 2025. Bulk Drugs: The PLI Scheme for Bulk Drugs aims to boost domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials (KSMs), Drug Intermediates (DIs), and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in India. The scheme has contributed to India becoming a net exporter of bulk drugs (Rs 2,280 crore) rom a net importer (Rs (-) 1,930 crore) as was the case in 2021-22. It has also significantly reduced the gap between the domestic manufacturing capacity and the demand for critical drugs. Food Products: PLI Scheme for food products has reported investments worth Rs 9,032 crore, resulting in production/sales of Rs 380,350 crores and employment of 340,116 (Direct and indirect). By mandating the use of domestically grown agricultural products (excluding additives, flavours, and edible oils) in manufacturing, the scheme has substantially increased local raw material procurement, benefiting underdeveloped and rural areas while supporting farmers' incomes. Under the PLI scheme, a significant proportion of beneficiaries are MSMEs, with 70 MSMEs directly enrolled and 40 others contributing as contract manufacturers for larger companies. This has strengthened SMEs by fostering innovation, improving competitiveness, expanding market access, generating employment opportunities, and supporting the broader value chain in the food processing industry. The sales of Value-Added Marine products increased at a CAGR of 22 per cent during the PLI period. With the launch of the PLI Millet Scheme, the Sales of Millet-Based Products increased 25 times in 2024-25 over the Base Year (2020-21). The procurement of millets by the PLI beneficiaries has increased from 4081 MT in 2022-23 to 1613MT in 2024-25, which has led to an increase in the rural household income. Textiles: Exports of Indian Man-made Fibre (MMF) Textiles have reached USD 6 billion during 2024-25 as against exports of USD 5.7 billion during 2023-24. The overall exports of Technical Textiles from India reached USD 3,356.5 million during 2024-25 as against exports of USD 2,986.6 million during 2023-24. (ANI)

Private Banks Outpace PSBs in Deposit Growth Across India

June 23, 2025, 1:54 pm

Private banks in India have steadily increased their share of total bank deposits over the past five years, while public sector banks (PSBs) have seen a consistent decline, according to data shared by Union Bank of India.

PSBs Lose Ground in Deposit Market Share

In March 2019, PSBs held 63.2% of total deposits in the country. However, by March 2025, their share dropped to 56.3%, marking a fall of nearly 600 basis points. The report said, “PVBs continue to increase market share in total deposits while PSBs lost approximately 600 bps in share during the last 5 years.”

Private Banks Gain Across Regions

Meanwhile, private sector banks (PVBs) increased their deposit share from 28.6% to 34.8% in the same period. Other banks kept a stable share, hovering between 8.1% and 8.8%.

Interestingly, private banks have grown faster even in semi-urban and rural regions—areas that were once strongholds of PSBs. This shift indicates a broader acceptance of private banks across all regions.

Regional Differences in Banking Trends

In metro cities, private banks have almost matched PSBs in terms of deposit share. Though PSBs still lead in Current Account Savings Account (CASA) deposits in rural and semi-urban regions, private banks are closing the gap.

Moreover, private banks dominate CASA deposits in metros and are gaining ground in urban centres. The report highlighted that private banks are expanding faster in urban areas than their public sector counterparts.

Deposit Growth Patterns and CASA Ratio

Even though PSBs saw better growth in current accounts in metro areas, private banks posted higher overall deposit growth—mainly driven by term deposits.

However, the CASA ratio (the proportion of deposits in current and savings accounts to total deposits) of private banks is falling faster than that of PSBs in every region.

Year-on-Year Growth: Private Banks Lead

Private banks continue to outperform in yearly deposit growth. In March 2024, they posted the highest growth at 20.1%, whereas PSBs grew at 9.4%. This trend remained in March 2025 as well—private banks grew 12%, compared to 9.3% for PSBs and 10.3% for scheduled commercial banks (SCBs).

PSBs Lose Dominance as Private Banks Expand

Overall, the data confirms that private banks are consistently attracting more deposits and expanding their market presence. In contrast, PSBs are steadily losing their traditional dominance in the Indian banking sector.

India’s Economic Rise Must Now Lift Its People, Says Report

June 21, 2025, 2:08 pm

India has surpassed several global economies in terms of total GDP over the last decade. However, its per capita income remains low. A report by Llama Research now urges the country to shift focus toward increasing individual prosperity.

Growth Must Reach the People

The report emphasized that India’s next phase of growth must benefit its citizens directly. Although India ranks among the top 10 global economies, it ranks the lowest in per capita income. Llama Research explained, “This isn’t a flaw, it’s a window of compounding potential.”

Key Strengths Driving India’s Momentum

According to the report, India has many advantages. These include manufacturing expansion, rising income tiers, and rapid digital transformation. Additionally, the report cited India’s tech-savvy population, sound policies, macroeconomic stability, and room for long-term capital formation.

“India is not just rising in rank,” the report stated, “it’s building the foundations to lead from the ground up.”

Roadmap to Viksit Bharat by 2047

India aims to become a developed nation, or ‘Viksit Bharat’, by 2047. To achieve this, the Economic Survey 2024–25 stated India must sustain an average growth rate of 8% at constant prices for the next 10 to 20 years.

From Fragile to Fast-Growing

In 2013, India was part of the “Fragile Five” — a term coined by Morgan Stanley for struggling emerging markets. Today, India has transformed. It now stands as the fifth-largest economy and continues to grow rapidly.

The IMF projects that India will overtake Japan and become the fourth-largest economy in the current financial year.

Impressive Growth Numbers

India’s growth remains strong. In 2021–22, the economy expanded by 8.7%. It grew by 7.2% in 2022–23, followed by an impressive 9.2% in 2023–24. In 2024–25, India is expected to grow by 6.5% in real terms, as widely anticipated.

Final Take

India’s economic rise is clear. But now, the challenge lies in ensuring that prosperity reaches every individual. With strong fundamentals and a clear vision, India is laying the groundwork for inclusive growth in the years ahead.

Why ₹37,600 Crore Indian Funds Are Now Parked in Swiss Banks

June 20, 2025, 11:58 am

Indian holdings in Swiss banks tripled over three times in 2024 to 3.5 billion Swiss francs, or around ₹37,600 crore. The steep increase was mainly led by a jump in funds channeled through domestic branches of Swiss banks and other institutions, the Swiss National Bank (SNB)'s year-end data announced on Thursday said.

Customer Deposits Show Modest Rise

Even though the overall increase was recorded, individual customer deposits by Indian customers increased only by 11% and totaled 346 million Swiss francs (approximately ₹3,675 crore). This represented a mere tenth of Swiss banks' total Indian-linked deposits.

A Rebound After 2023's Sharp Decline

The dramatic rebound comes after a drastic 70% decline in 2023, when Indian-held balances in Swiss banks hit a four-year low of CHF 1.04 billion. The present figure is a 14-year high since 2021, when Indian money in Swiss accounts reached CHF 3.83 billion.

Breakdown of Swiss Bank Liabilities to Indian Clients

Total liabilities held by the SNB as of 2023 year-end amounting to Indian clients were CHF 3,545.54 million. These comprised:

CHF 346 million in customer deposits (up from CHF 310 million)
CHF 3.02 billion through other banks (up from CHF 427 million)
CHF 41 million via fiduciaries or trusts (up from CHF 10 million)
CHF 135 million under ‘other amounts’ such as bonds and securities (down from CHF 293 million)

Not a Measure of ‘Black Money’, Say Authorities

The SNB clarified that these official figures represent reported assets and liabilities and are not indicative of any unaccounted or alleged ‘black money’. They also exclude funds held in third-country entities, which might indirectly involve Indian nationals or firms. Swiss officials reaffirmed their position: "Assets of Indian residents in Switzerland cannot be viewed as 'black money' and they actively assist India in its war against tax evasion and tax fraud."

BIS Numbers Indicate Relatively Slow Growth in Private Accounts

Figures from Bank for International Settlements (BIS), regarded as more accurate for monitoring individual Indian deposits, indicated a 6% increase in 2024. The figure stood at USD 74.8 million (approximately ₹650 crore). This estimate encompasses both loans and deposits of Indian non-bank customers in Swiss banks. Since the years, BIS data showed such holdings declining—by 25% in 2023, 18% in 2022, and 8% in 2021. The previous major growth was seen in 2020 when deposits went up by almost 39%. The high-point was seen in 2007 at more than USD 2.3 billion.

India-Switzerland Tax Info Exchange Remains Active

Since 2018, India and Switzerland have been running an automatic tax information exchange system. Thereunder, India received its first tranche of account information in 2019, with quarterly updates yearly. The Swiss authorities further added: "Such exchange of information has occurred in hundreds of cases so far," particularly where prima facie evidence of infamy was brought by Indian authorities.

India's Rank Improves Among Global Swiss Bank Clients

India rose to 48th among nations that have money in Swiss banks from 67 in 2023. Still, that's lower than its 46th rank in 2022. Compared with this, the UK led the chart at CHF 222 billion, followed by the US (CHF 89 billion) and West Indies (CHF 68 billion). Other leading nations included Germany, France, Hong Kong, Luxembourg, Singapore, Guernsey, and the UAE.

Regional Comparison: Bangladesh Rises, Pakistan Falls

Bangladesh experienced a steep rise in Swiss-held funds to CHF 589 million (from CHF 18 million), while Pakistan's deposits fell slightly to CHF 272 million (from CHF 286 million). As in India, political arguments regarding black money are still intense in both neighboring countries.

Telegram Founder to Leave $13.9B Fortune to Over 100 Children

June 19, 2025, 6:20 pm

In a revealing revelation, Telegram founder Pavel Durov has stated that he intends to leave his whole fortune valued at $13.9 billion by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index to over 100 children he considers to be his own. The 40-year-old technology entrepreneur revealed the odd specifics of his bequeathal plan in an interview with France's Le Point magazine, quoted by Bloomberg.

Legacy Shared by Over 100 Children

Durov, who kept a reclusive public image, disclosed that he is the biological father of six children by three different women. But that is merely the beginning of his parenting saga. In the last fifteen years, Durov claimed, he has been donating sperm, which has resulted in the conception of more than 100 children in the world. I want to make it clear that I do not make any distinction among my children: there are those who were born in the normal way and those who are from my sperm donations," he explained to Le Point. "They are all my children and will all have equal rights. However, the billionaire also noted that his heirs wouldn’t receive immediate access to his fortune. “I wrote my will very recently,” he said. “I decided that my children would not have access to my fortune until a period of thirty years has elapsed, starting from today.”

The Lifestyle of a Tech Enigma

Apart from establishing Telegram, which has more than one billion users, Durov is also renowned for his unorthodox ways and strict personal routine. With 11.1 million followers of Telegram, he posts regularly about his lifestyle. Referring to the same interview, he said he does 300 push-ups and 300 squats every day, and doesn't consume alcohol, coffee, and tea at all. In spite of his popularity within the tech community, Durov is not controversy-free. French authorities charged him last year with alleged complicity in criminal activity facilitated by the Telegram platform, reports Bloomberg. Durov has refuted all such claims.

Trump Delays TikTok Ban Again, Keeps App Alive for Now

June 18, 2025, 7:19 am

TikTok will remain available in the U.S. for at least three more months. Once again, US President Donald Trump plans to delay the app's sale or ban. So far, this is the third extension since he returned to office.

On Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the move. She stated, “President Trump will sign an additional Executive Order this week to keep TikTok up and running.”

Originally, ByteDance—the Chinese company that owns TikTok—had a deadline in January to sell it to an American firm. Since that didn’t happen, the app faced a ban. However, both TikTok and ByteDance declined to comment, according to the BBC.

Leavitt explained the reason behind the extension. She said the extra 90 days would help finalize the sale. “It will ensure this deal is closed so that the American people can continue to use TikTok with the assurance that their data is safe and secure,” she added.

Trump Confirms He Supports the Extension

Earlier, Trump spoke to the BBC. He said he would “probably” approve the delay.

"We’ll probably have to get China approval," he said. "I think we’ll get it. I think President Xi will ultimately approve it."

When asked if he had the legal power to extend the deadline, he answered, “We do.”

Congress Disagrees

Trump’s decision goes against Congress. Last year, lawmakers passed a bill that required TikTok to either sell to a U.S. company or face a ban. Then-President Joe Biden signed it into law right away.

The law targeted security risks. U.S. officials feared China might use TikTok to spy or spread propaganda. At present, TikTok has 170 million users in the U.S.

In January, the Supreme Court upheld the law just before Trump returned to office. During inauguration weekend, TikTok briefly went offline. But it came back soon after.

Following that, TikTok thanked Trump for allowing the app to return.

Trump Tried to Sell TikTok—Now He Supports It

Back in 2020, Trump tried to force a sale of TikTok during his first term. He cited national security concerns at that time.

However, his view has changed. In December 2024, Trump praised the app and credited it for his election win.

"I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok, because I won youth by 34 points," he said. Still, most young voters actually supported Kamala Harris.

Experts Say a Ban Seems Unlikely Now

Due to the repeated delays, many experts no longer believe the ban will happen.

"What ban? There is nothing 'looming' about the potential TikTok ban anymore," said Kelsey Chickering, a lead analyst at Forrester.

Recently, TikTok launched new AI video tools at the Cannes festival. Chickering said this shows the app is confident about its future.

In her view, smaller apps like Snap may try to take advantage of this moment. “But they will not succeed because this next round for TikTok isn’t uncertain at all,” she added.

Talks Continue, But No Deal Yet

In April, the Trump administration said a deal was almost ready. This agreement would have moved control of TikTok’s U.S. operations to an American company. Even so, the deal hasn’t gone through yet.

A ByteDance spokesperson said, “There are key matters to be resolved. Any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law.”

Several Buyers Are Interested

Trump has said he’s open to selling TikTok to Oracle. Its co-founder Larry Ellison is one of Trump’s close allies.

In addition, a second group of buyers has stepped forward. This team includes Frank McCourt (a billionaire businessman), Kevin O’Leary (a Canadian investor), Alexis Ohanian (co-founder of Reddit).

Also, YouTube superstar Jimmy Donaldson—better known as MrBeast—has expressed interest. He may join another group bidding to buy TikTok.

Trump Signs Partial Trade Deal with UK Ahead of G7 Exit

June 17, 2025, 8:25 am

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that reduces import taxes on UK-made cars shipped to the United States on Monday. This step brings parts of a trade pact—reached last month between the two countries—into effect.

Trump made this decision shortly before leaving the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada. He left early due to rising tensions in the Middle East.

UK PM Starmer Welcomes Deal

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who spoke at the G7 Summit, welcomed the move. He called it a “very important day” for both the UK and the US.

The UK government had been negotiating with Washington to protect British businesses from increased US import duties.

Details of the Tariff Cuts

According to the order, the US will now allow up to 100,000 UK-made cars to enter the country annually at a 10% tariff. This is a reduction from the 25% tariff that had been imposed earlier this year on all car imports.

Although this deal benefits UK automakers, it does not remove tariffs on steel imports. Trump did mention that the US plans to introduce a system for steel and aluminium soon, but he did not offer details. “We’re gonna let you have that information in a little while,” he said.

Other Goods Included in the Agreement

The executive order also lifted tariffs on certain aerospace products. Sir Keir said the pact “implements on car tariffs and aerospace,” and he described it as a “sign of strength” between the two allies.

When asked about future tariffs, Trump responded, “The UK is very well protected. You know why? Because I like them.”

The new tariff rules will take effect seven days after their official publication.

Mixed Reaction in the UK

Mike Hawes, head of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said this agreement will let “many manufacturers resume deliveries imminently.” He added, “We wait to see the full details of the deal… but this will be a huge reassurance.”

UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds also welcomed the move. He described it as “the result of work happening at pace between both governments.” He confirmed that the UK would soon update Parliament on new quotas for US beef and ethanol, which are part of the broader trade agreement.

Beef Quotas Raised, Standards Maintained

As part of the agreement, the UK will remove a 20% tariff on US beef. It will also increase the import quota from 1,000 to 13,000 metric tons. However, UK officials stressed that food safety standards will not be lowered, and all imported beef must meet UK food safety laws.

Limited Scope: Not a Full Trade Deal

Although the UK government praised the pact, it is not a free-trade agreement. Trump has described it as a “major trade deal,” but legally, he cannot sign full trade agreements without Congressional approval.

Some UK opposition leaders criticised the deal. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called it a “tiny tariff deal.”

Even so, Trump praised PM Starmer for getting the deal done. “He’s done what other people… haven’t been able to do,” Trump said. “They’ve been talking about this deal for six years… and he’s done what they haven’t.”

Crude Price Surge May Threaten Oil and Gas Company Earnings

June 16, 2025, 12:54 pm

Any further escalation in the Middle East crisis or a sharp jump in crude oil prices could seriously affect the profits of Indian oil and gas companies—particularly Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and gas utility firms.

Mixed Impact on Indian Energy Companies

Currently, Indian OMCs and gas companies are experiencing mixed effects due to the unpredictable changes in global crude oil prices.

According to a report by ICICI Securities, crude oil is now trading at around $73 to $74 per barrel. At this level, the earnings of OMCs have already taken a noticeable hit, while upstream oil companies could benefit.

The report clearly mentioned, "We estimate a material impact on OMC earnings and upside risk to upstream earnings even with crude at USD 73-74/bbl as is the case now."

Future Crude Spikes May Hurt More Than Help

The report further warned that if crude prices go higher, upstream companies may not gain much more. However, such a spike could make things worse for OMCs and gas utility companies.

This is because liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices, which are closely tied to crude, would also rise. That would push up input costs for gas providers, making operations more expensive.

Analysts Taking a Wait-and-Watch Approach

Despite recent price movements, analysts have not yet changed their earnings forecasts or outlooks for the sector. They plan to closely monitor the crude oil markets in the coming weeks before making any firm decisions.

The report also pointed out that the current increase in crude prices is still lower than the average levels seen in the financial year FY25 and significantly below the four-year average.

Impact on Profitability Still Under Control

Therefore, for now, the overall impact on the profit margins of Indian oil and gas companies does not appear alarming.

Geopolitical Risks Add to Market Worries

However, sharp changes in the stock prices of energy firms indicate that investors are worried. One of the main concerns is that the Middle East conflict could disrupt oil and gas shipments via the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supply.

There is also some fear, although unlikely, that NATO might get involved in the conflict—especially if Iran attacks Western military bases in the region.

Brent Crude Price Still Above Estimates

At present, Brent crude is priced at around $75 per barrel. This is $6–$7 higher than the projected average of $68 for FY26, which could hurt OMCs’ earnings per share (EPS). On the other hand, upstream companies may see a boost.

Even so, current crude prices are still $9 lower than the FY22–25 average and $4 below the FY25 average. This suggests that global supply is sufficient, and concerns over weak demand still weigh on prices.

Conclusion: Risks Remain If Prices Rise Further

In conclusion, ICICI Securities maintained its existing estimates for now. However, it warned that any further surge in crude prices or escalation in conflict could seriously threaten the earnings of Indian OMCs and gas companies.

Cosmetic Icon Leonard Lauder Passes Away, Leaves Behind Global Legacy

June 16, 2025, 11:09 am

Leonard Lauder, the legendary businessman who transformed his family’s small cosmetics company into the global beauty powerhouse Estée Lauder, has passed away at the age of 92.

He Grew a Family Business into a Global Brand

Lauder took charge of the company in 1958, when its annual revenue was under $1 million—about $11 million today. Back then, it was a modest family-run firm. But under his leadership, the company grew rapidly. Today, Estée Lauder operates in 150 countries and earned $15.6 billion in sales last year.

Lauder served as CEO for 17 years, playing a key role in the brand’s expansion. He introduced Estée Lauder to Europe and Asia and set up the company’s first research and development lab.

He Built a Beauty Empire Through Smart Deals

A skilled dealmaker, Lauder acquired some of the biggest names in beauty—Clinique, Bobbi Brown, and MAC. In 1995, he took the company public. On the first day of trading in New York, the stock rose by 33%.

Although he stepped down as CEO in 1999, he remained closely connected to the company. He held the honorary title of chairman emeritus until his death.

Company Confirms His Peaceful Passing

Estée Lauder confirmed that Lauder died on Saturday, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born in 1933 in New York, Leonard was the eldest son of company founders Estée and Joseph Lauder. Before joining the business at age 25, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy.

Tributes Pour in for the Beauty Industry Icon

Many prominent figures shared their condolences. Stephane de La Faverie, CEO of Estée Lauder, said, “He was an icon and pioneer, earning respect worldwide. His energy and vision helped shape our company and will continue to do so for generations to come.”

British actress Elizabeth Hurley, who began her modeling career with Estée Lauder, posted an emotional tribute, “I called him my American Daddy and I can't imagine a world without him.”

Steve Forbes, editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, described Lauder as someone who “lived life well, & his passing is the world's loss.”

Mike Bloomberg, billionaire and former New York mayor, added, “His legacy will be felt for generations to come.”

https://twitter.com/MikeBloomberg/status/1934336987328352516

Beyond Business: Art and Advocacy

Outside of his business success, Leonard Lauder had deep passions. In 2013, he promised to donate his billion-dollar Cubist art collection to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

He also strongly supported cancer research. He served as honorary chairman of the board at the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, showing his dedication to social causes.

Anne Wojcicki Reclaims 23andMe, $305M Deal

June 14, 2025, 6:04 pm

Anne Wojcicki, the co-founder and former CEO of 23andMe, has regained ownership of the genetic-testing company through her nonprofit, TTAM Research Institute. Wojcicki’s group outbid Regeneron Pharmaceuticals on Friday, offering $305 million to acquire nearly all of 23andMe’s assets. These include its Personal Genome Service, research services, and its telehealth arm, Lemonaid Health.

Wojcicki's Nonprofit Reclaims 23andMe in $305M Deal

Wojcicki stepped down as CEO after 23andMe filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March. Regeneron initially won the asset auction with a $256 million bid. However, Wojcicki reopened the bidding, securing the rights to buy back her creation under the nonprofit TTAM—an acronym derived from the first letters of 23andMe . “I am thrilled that TTAM Research Institute will be able to continue the mission of 23andMe to help people access, understand and benefit from the human genome,” Wojcicki said in a statement.

From $6B Valuation to Breach and Bankruptcy

23andMe became widely known for its at-home DNA kits, offering users confidential insight into ancestry and genetic health. 23andMe went public in 2021 and was once valued at \$6 billion. But things took a downturn as it struggled to make steady profits and expand into therapies. Then in 2023, a major data breach hit nearly 7 million users, shaking customer trust. This led to serious privacy concerns. Wojcicki’s TTAM acquisition includes vital intellectual property, customer data, and telehealth services, signaling her plans to revive the company under a nonprofit model that keeps its mission intact—supporting personal genomics and research. The deal still awaits approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, but it remains a major step toward preserving the brand’s legacy and data integrity .

Why Is the Stock Market Falling Today? 5 Key Factors

June 13, 2025, 2:10 pm

Indian equity markets opened sharply lower on Friday, with Sensex and Nifty both seeing one of the sharpest plunges in recent months. The BSE Sensex fell by 1,103.53 points to 80,588.45, while the Nifty 50 fell 320.45 points to close at 24,567.75. The sudden drop was provoked by several reasons, which included heightened geopolitical tensions, poor global cues, high foreign selling, and market-wide panic. Gift Nifty futures had already indicated a weak opening, trading more than 200 points below Thursday's close, reflecting widespread bearish sentiment among investors.

1. Israel-Iran Standoff Spooks Global Market with Anxiety

Geopolitical tensions erupted after Israel supposedly conducted airstrikes on Iran's Natanz nuclear enrichment plant and missile depots. The escalation, reportedly in retaliation against nuclear threats, spooked global investors and fueled a rally in crude oil prices. "Geopolitical issues have come back to center stage. Investors are factoring in the risk of oil supply disruptions, which have a direct impact on inflation and interest rate expectations," stated Rajiv Mehta, Chief Strategist at Yes Securities. World markets responded sharply. The MSCI Asia ex-Japan index fell 0.4% in early trade, as investors gravitated towards safer havens such as gold and the Swiss franc. India, which is a significant oil importer, is still exposed to crude price spurt.

2. Aviation Catastrophe Jolts Market Sentiment

Investor confidence was hit again following Thursday's devastating crash of an Air India Boeing 787 aircraft in Ahmedabad in which almost all 242 crew and passengers were killed. The crash is being called the deadliest air accident in ten years. The announcement triggered steep falls in the stocks related to aviation. SpiceJet, InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo), and Adani Enterprises, which operates several airports, saw their shares fall. Boeing's shares also fell by 5% overnight, impacting the international aviation industry.

3. Technical Breakdown Signals Weakness

Technically, both Sensex and Nifty broke key support levels, reflecting bearish strength. Experts saw a bearish candle pattern and breakdown below short-term moving averages. "The short term market texture is not healthy. A decline below 81,500 on Sensex can lead to fresh selling. Below that, the index may test 81,000," cautioned Shrikant Chouhan, Head of Equity Research at Kotak Securities. Om Mehra, Technical Analyst at SAMCO Securities, further said, "Nifty has broken down below its 20-day moving average. A break below 24,800 can see 24,500 levels in near future."

4. FII Selling Intensifies Amid Global Risk-Off Mode

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) withdrew Rs 3,831 crore worth of Indian equities in the last session, a sign of the overseas move away from riskier assets. Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained on the buying side, posting their 18th consecutive session of net buying. The FIIs-DIIs divergence indicates how vulnerable Indian markets are to external stimuli, including oil price fluctuations and hopes surrounding US Federal Reserve policy shifts.

5. Volatility and Global Economic Worries Montage Pressure

The sudden rise in the Average True Range (ATR) for Nifty indicates elevated intraday volatility. Global economic worries about the US-China trade relationship, increasing energy prices, and ambiguous signals from the US Federal Reserve have put additional pressure. "RSI divergence at resistance and bearish candlestick formation indicate that markets are overdue for consolidation or a mild correction," said Hedged.in's Dr. Praveen Dwarakanath. The Bank Nifty also continued to slide, falling 377 points to close at 56,082. "Profit booking persists, and any violation below 55,300 may convert the trend from bullish to neutral," warned Mehra. Even with positive corporate results and the robust macroeconomic fundamentals of India, the market is predicted to remain range-bound in the short term. Further rise in the Israel-Iran conflict or a sudden spurt in crude prices might raise volatility. Investors are recommended to keep away from leveraged positions and go for defensive stocks such as FMCG, pharma, and utilities that are less vulnerable to global economic shocks. On the brighter side, India's consumer inflation slipped to 2.82% in May — its lowest level in more than six years — providing the Reserve Bank of India with some room to maneuver in its monetary policy. Investors are advised to remain on guard, monitor crucial support levels, and pay close attention to events globally as uncertainty remains a bearish influence on sentiment.

Airtel Signs Multi-Year Deal with Ericsson to Strengthen Network

June 9, 2025, 4:36 pm

Bharti Airtel has signed a multi-year strategic deal with Swedish telecom company Ericsson. As part of this agreement, Ericsson will manage Airtel’s services across technologies like 4G, 5G NSA, 5G SA, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), Private Networks, and Network Slicing.

Moreover, Ericsson will handle Airtel’s entire network across India through its advanced Network Operations Centre (NOC). This partnership will also help scale up services like FWA and network slicing.

Airtel Aims for a Future-Ready Network

Speaking about the partnership, Airtel CTO Randeep Sekhon said, “We are excited to enhance our strong collaboration with Ericsson as we pursue our goal of creating a future-ready network that delivers an exceptional experience for our customers.”

He further added, “We believe that these innovative technologies will empower us to meet the growing data demands of consumers in a digitally connected India.”

Ericsson Highlights Commitment to India

Ericsson also shared its excitement about the collaboration. Andres Vicente, Head of Market Area Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, said, “This milestone agreement with Bharti Airtel reinforces our commitment to helping Airtel deliver the best possible experience for its customers.”

Additionally, he stated, “By leveraging Intent-Based NOC Operations, we will enable Airtel to unlock wider service diversification to meet customer needs, thereby enabling new revenue opportunities for Airtel.”

Partnership Built Over 25 Years

Airtel and Ericsson have worked together for over 25 years. Their long partnership has covered several generations of mobile technology.

Recently, they also partnered to upgrade Airtel’s 5G Core network, helping drive its 5G evolution.

Airtel Expands in India and Abroad

Today, Airtel provides services to more than 550 million customers in 15 countries across India and Africa. In addition, the company operates in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka through its associate companies.

Airtel Also Partners with Google

Meanwhile, last month, Airtel announced a partnership with Google. This new offer brings Google One cloud storage to Airtel’s postpaid and Wi-Fi customers.

Under this plan, users will receive 100 GB of cloud storage free for six months. Furthermore, they can share it with up to five other people.

US-China Trade Talks Resume in London After ‘Very Good’ Trump-Xi Call

June 9, 2025, 1:08 pm

After weeks of tension, the United States and China have decided to restart trade talks. These discussions began in London on Monday. US President Donald Trump made the announcement on Friday. Soon after, China confirmed that Vice Premier He Lifeng would attend the talks.

Earlier last week, Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke on the phone. According to Trump, it was a “very good talk” that ended positively for both sides.

Top Officials Meet in London

As a result of the call, Trump said key US officials would lead the negotiations. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are meeting their Chinese counterparts in London.

Meanwhile, Beijing stated that Vice Premier He would be in the UK from June 8 to 13. During this visit, both sides are holding meetings under the “China-US economic and trade mechanism.”

Truce Under Pressure

Previously, both nations agreed on a temporary truce in May. This agreement reduced tariffs. The US cut duties on Chinese goods to 30%, while China lowered tariffs on US products to 10%. China also promised to ease restrictions on critical minerals.

However, the peace didn’t last. Since then, both countries have blamed each other for breaking the agreement. Trump said, “China had totally violated its agreement with us.” In response, China accused the US of “severely violating” the deal.

Key Disagreements Continue

Importantly, both countries are still clashing over rare earth minerals. These materials are vital to industries like electronics and defense. The US had earlier blocked sales of semiconductors and other tech to China. China retaliated by restricting exports of rare earths.

Notably, China produces 69% of the world’s rare earths. Therefore, this gives Beijing significant control over global supply chains.

Swetha Ramachandran, a fund manager at Artemis, explained on the BBC’s Today programme, “Some of the focus certainly seems to be on rare earths where China, of course, has dominance in terms of producing.”

China Allows Limited Exports

On Saturday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said it had approved some export applications for rare earths. However, it didn’t mention which countries were included. The statement followed Trump’s claim that Xi agreed to restart rare earth trade.

Yet, on Sunday, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett offered a cautious view. He said, “Those exports of critical minerals have been getting released at a rate that is, you know, higher than it was, but not as high as we believe we agreed to in Geneva.”

Trade War Timeline

The trade conflict began earlier this year. Trump had announced major tariffs on several countries, especially China. In return, Beijing increased its own tariffs on US goods. This back-and-forth reached a peak with 145% tariffs on some products.

Later in May, both sides met in Switzerland. That meeting led to the current 90-day window to finalize a new deal. Trump had called it a “total reset.”

China’s Trade Numbers Worry Markets

Meanwhile, China’s latest trade data raised concerns. According to new figures released on Monday, exports grew by only 4.8% in May. At the same time, imports dropped 3.4%, far worse than the 0.9% analysts had predicted.

As a result, pressure has increased on both sides to find a solution before the 90-day deadline ends.

What’s Next?

Clearly, the stakes are high. These London talks may decide whether the world’s two biggest economies can resolve their trade differences—or fall back into conflict.

Microsoft Launches New Xbox Handheld Consoles in Partnership with ASUS

June 9, 2025, 3:24 am

Microsoft on Sunday announced its initial Xbox-branded handheld video game consoles. It touted them as a means to play its large catalog of games anywhere.

ROG Xbox Ally to Launch in Partnership with ASUS

The two versions of "ROG Xbox Ally", made in collaboration with Taiwan-based ASUS, will hit the market during the holiday season. This will be towards the end of the year. Xbox president Sarah Bond said this at an online event.

"The Xbox Ally is an Xbox you can hold in your hands. It brings together the power of Xbox and the freedom of Windows," Bond added.

She also said that on this Xbox iteration, customers will have the ability to choose any game from their entire collection. This includes all of the Windows PC game stores from Xbox and Battle.net to Steam, GOG (the Good Old Games platform), and Ubisoft Connect.

Two Variants for Different User Needs

Xbox defines the ROG Xbox Ally as a must-have handheld. It offers affordable value for everyone, from casual gamers to hardcore fans. In contrast, the ROG Xbox Ally X model delivers ultimate performance and targets the most demanding users. Xbox powers the Ally with an AMD Ryzen™ Z2 A Processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD storage. Xbox Ally X operates on AMD Ryzen™ AI Z2 Extreme processor, with 24GB of fast RAM and 1TB of storage.

Key Features of Xbox Ally Series

With this gaming experience, users can be relieved of any static fixture and go anywhere with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.
Xbox has optimized Windows 11 to allow its effortless usage on both the Xbox Ally series.
The 'game bar' on Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X enables users to go home easy, browse library, launch or exit games, chat with friends, open other applications, adjust settings, and a whole lot more.
With the additional integration of ASUS's 'Armoury Crate', the game bar also provides users streamlined access to advanced device and input controls.
Because these new handheld Xbox consoles can run Windows, users will have access to games they can't find elsewhere. The full circumference of gaming is available to be experienced, download games from user's favorite storefront, run apps like Discord, streamers on Twitch watch, and play with favorite mods.
Among the new features of the handheld gaming device is that whenever a user will switch on their Xbox Ally, they will automatically boot into the 'Xbox full screen experience'.
There is 'Xbox button' in Xbox Ally as well, which allows players to access chat, apps, and settings using an improved Game Bar overlay.
'Contoured grips' features, Xbox mentioned, was designed with comfort of the gamers in mind, based on the same design philosophy as Xbox Wireless Controllers. The Xbox Ally versions have contoured handgrips to fit a greater variety of hand sizes.

Exclusive Offers for Game Pass Newcomers

Apart from that, Xbox also offered enticing deals to players buying the new model and who are new to Game Pass. Microsoft announced that it will start such players with no additional fee and will also give them access to hundreds of games like Balatro, Gears Tactics, Vampire Survivors, and others directly from their device.

RBI Lowers Key Interest Rate Again, Forecasts 6.5% GDP Growth

June 6, 2025, 1:25 pm

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) surprised markets on Friday by reducing the repo rate by 50 basis points, bringing it down to 5.50%. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra made the announcement following the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.

This marks the third straight rate cut by the central bank this year. So far in 2025, the RBI has lowered rates by a total of 100 basis points—starting with a 25 bps cut in February, which was the first since May 2020, followed by a similar move in April.

Inflation under control

Governor Malhotra said inflation has dropped sharply, giving the RBI room to support economic expansion. “Inflation has softened significantly,” he stated. He also added that inflation is aligning well with the RBI’s target of 4%, and that core inflation remains under control. Retail inflation fell faster than expected in recent months, hitting a near six-year low of 3.16% in April. This was well below the central bank’s medium-term target.

Growth outlook positive

India’s economy continues to grow at a healthy pace. “India is already growing at a fast pace but aspires to grow at a higher pace,” Malhotra said. The GDP grew 7.4% in the January–March quarter, showing strong economic resilience.

GDP projections

Governor Malhotra shared the RBI’s growth forecast for the current financial year 2025–26. “Real GDP growth rate for this year 2025-2026, is projected at 6.5%, continuing with our earlier forecast, with Q1 at 6.5%, Q2 at 6.7%, Q3 at 6.6%, and Q4 at 6.4%. The risks are evenly balanced,” he said.

Vijay Mallya Says Sorry To Ex-Employees, Breaks Silence On Kingfisher Crisis

June 6, 2025, 10:01 am

Vijay Mallya broke his silence on the Kingfisher Airlines crisis and issued a public apology to his former employees in a recent podcast with YouTuber Raj Shamani. Mallya expressed regret over the unpaid salaries of his airline staff, saying, “I am deeply sorry for what happened… I am deeply sorry that some of them didn't get paid their salaries. I have no excuses to offer; I take full responsibility.”

Mallya Elaborating On The Unpaid Employees' Situation

The 69-year-old businessman, who has been facing allegations of bank loan fraud amounting to over ₹9,000 crore, claimed that he tried to release the pending salaries but was blocked by legal restrictions. “There was money deposited with the Karnataka High Court. I specifically applied to court to pay the salaries of Kingfisher Airlines staff, the banks objected, and the court refused the permission. There was really nothing I could do beyond that,” he explained. This response came when Shamani asked what Mallya would say to the Kingfisher employees who lost their jobs and still feel betrayed.

Mallya On Kingfisher Airlines Struggling During The 2008 Global Financial Crisis

Mallya discussed the struggles of Kingfisher Airlines in-depth during the 2008 global financial crisis. He said he had approached then Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, proposing to scale down operations and reduce staff due to worsening economic conditions. He said that the government suggested he maintain connectivity and avoid layoffs. “I was told not to downsize Kingfisher, and yes, banks did offer support,” he added. The former owner of the Royal Challengers Bangalore cricket team has been living in the UK since 2016, after fleeing India to avoid arrest in a massive loan default case. During the podcast, he said he’s willing to return to India if he’s guaranteed a fair trial. Through this podcast, Mallya aimed to clear the air, accepting responsibility for the downfall of Kingfisher Airlines while pointing fingers at legal and systemic barriers that, according to him, prevented him from doing more.

Tesla Stock Tanks After Elon Musk’s Public Feud With Donald Trump

June 6, 2025, 7:47 am

Tesla shares fell by 14%, wiping out $150 billion in market value on Thursday. Notably, there was no company-related news to explain the crash. Instead, the timing clearly pointed to Musk’s very public feud with Trump.

Tax Bill Disagreement

Initially, the fallout began when Musk criticized Trump’s new tax and spending bill. As a result, Trump hit back and accused Musk of being upset over the loss of tax incentives for electric vehicles. He said, “He’s upset because the bill takes away tax benefits for electric vehicle purchases.”

Shortly before the fight began, Musk had stepped down from his role as a government adviser.

Investors React to the Political Fight

Consequently, traders started dumping Tesla shares. Many feared the political drama would hurt Musk’s business empire. Tesla shareholder Dennis Dick explained, “Elon’s politics continue to harm the stock. First he aligned himself with Trump, which upset many potential Democratic buyers. Now he has turned on the Trump administration.”

Trump Suggests Cutting Federal Support

Meanwhile, Trump proposed cutting off Musk’s federal contracts. He wrote on Truth Social, “The easiest way to save money in our Budget, Billions and Billions of Dollars, is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didn’t do it.”

If carried out, this move could damage several of Musk’s companies that rely on government support, including Tesla and SpaceX.

Tesla’s Future Could Be at Risk

Furthermore, the feud may cause delays for Tesla’s major projects. For example, the U.S. Department of Transportation must approve the company’s new robotaxis. These vehicles won’t have pedals or steering wheels, making regulatory approval critical.

Without strong government ties, Tesla’s plans for the future could hit serious roadblocks.

Tension Creates Uncertainty

In summary, the Musk-Trump feud has shaken investor confidence. With $150 billion already lost, the future impact could grow. The conflict may not only hurt Tesla’s image but also delay key innovations and limit access to federal funding.

30-Year-Old AI Founder Becomes Youngest Self-Made Female Billionaire, Beats Taylor Swift

June 5, 2025, 12:59 pm

Lucy Guo dethrones Taylor Swift as the youngest self-made female billionaire at 30, thanks to her stake in ScaleAI. AI entrepreneur Lucy Guo has become the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire at 30, surpassing Taylor Swift. Despite being ousted from her own company, Guo’s 5% stake in ScaleAI is now valued at $25 billion which launched her net worth to $1.3 billion. Lucy Guo, a 30 year old entrepreneur and co-founder of ScaleAI has been officially named the world’s youngest female billionaire. Guo has surpassed music industry celebrities like Taylor Swift, Rihanna, and Selena Gomez. Forbes’ 2025 list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women has just confirmed Guo’s achievement as the youngest female billionaire with a net worth of $1.3 billion. This milestone comes after ScaleAI, the artificial intelligence data-labeling firm she helped launch at the age of 21 and which has now reached a valuation of $25 billion in a landmark deal. Guo, who is a college dropout, grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area. She is the daughter of Chinese immigrants and she began coding in middle school and later attended Carnegie Mellon University. However, she dropped out after receiving a $100,000 Thiel Fellowship which was founded by the venture capitalist Peter Thiel to support young entrepreneurs skipping college. Despite being ousted from ScaleAI after internal disagreements with co-founder Alexandr Wang, Guo retained her 5% stake in the company. That stake has now propelled her into billionaire territory, even though she no longer plays a role in the firm’s operations. Guo’s journey has drawn attention for both her intense work ethic and her high-profile, fast-paced lifestyle. Her rise contrasts sharply with the entertainment-driven billionaire narratives. Until now the popular American singer, Taylor Swift, who crossed the billionaire threshold in 2023 at the age of 33 had held the title of youngest self-made female billionaire. Guo’s story underscores a growing trend of tech founders disrupting traditional paths to wealth. From coding in middle school to building a billion-dollar fortune by 30, Lucy Guo’s ascent signals the increasing dominance of AI in shaping tomorrow’s billionaire class. Meta Description

Outrage Erupts as Boeing Pays $1.1B to Dodge Criminal Trial in Deadly 737 Max Crashes

June 5, 2025, 12:49 pm

Boeing’s $1.1B deal to avoid trial over two fatal crashes sparks outrage from victims' families and legal counsel. Boeing strikes a $1.1B deal with the US DOJ to avoid prosecution over two fatal crashes, but the lawyer representing the victims' families calls it a “morally repugnant” escape from justice. A new $1.1 billion agreement has been made between aerospace giant Boeing and the U.S. Department of Justice. This has ignited backlash from families of victims involved in the deadly Boeing 737 Max crashes. The deal shields Boeing from criminal prosecution and includes payouts and compliance improvements but has been severely condemned by the victims’ legal team as deeply unjust. Sanjiv Singh, the lawyer representing the 16 families affected by the 2018 Lion Air crash in Indonesia, described the agreement as “morally repugnant,” arguing that it enables Boeing to avoid true accountability. "It’s like Boeing paying $10 to escape criminal liability," Singh told the BBC. The settlement would see $444.5 million allocated to victims' families, with an additional $455 million committed to overhauling Boeing’s safety and compliance systems. A criminal fine of $487.2 million is included—half of which Boeing already paid in 2021 as part of a previous agreement. The crashes in question are the Lion Air Flight 610 in October 2018 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 in March 2019 has killed a combined 346 people and were both attributed to faulty flight control software on the 737 Max. Boeing stated it remains committed to “honouring the memory of the victims” and reforming its internal systems, pending court approval of the deal. If upheld, Boeing would be spared a criminal fraud trial. Families of the victims will have the opportunity to appeal before a federal judge rules on the agreement. Singh says his clients feel an overwhelming sense of “visceral outrage” and believe the settlement fails to deliver justice or accountability.

UPI Records Massive Growth, Likely to Overtake Visa Within Months

June 4, 2025, 4:00 pm

India’s digital payment system, UPI, is quickly catching up to Visa in daily global transactions. According to reports, UPI processed “644 million transactions on June 1” and “650 million on June 2.”

In comparison, Visa averaged “639 million transactions per day” during FY24. Although Visa does not release its daily data, its March 2024 quarter saw a slightly higher daily average of “674 million.”

Meanwhile, UPI averaged “602 million daily transactions in May,” showing how fast it is closing the gap.

UPI’s Fast-Paced Growth

UPI continues to grow at a rapid pace. Monthly growth stands at “5 to 7 percent,” and yearly growth hits “a whopping 40 percent.” On the other hand, Visa’s annual transaction volume grows by just “10 percent.”

Based on this pattern, experts believe that UPI could overtake Visa in the next “two to three months.”

New Milestone in May

UPI hit a record high in May 2025, both in volume and value. NPCI reported “1,867.7 crore transactions” for the month, compared to “1,789.3 crore in April.”

In terms of value, May saw “₹25.14 lakh crore,” which was a “5 percent rise” from April’s ₹23.94 lakh crore. This was also a sharp jump from “₹20.44 lakh crore in May 2024,” marking a “23 percent annual growth.”

UPI’s average daily transaction value also rose. It reached “₹81,106 crore in May,” slightly up from “₹79,831 crore in April.”

Big Goals Ahead

The government and NPCI, which manage UPI, are aiming higher. Their target is to reach “1 billion transactions per day.”

Industry leaders praised UPI’s growth. Dilip Modi, founder and CEO of Spice Money, called the May milestone “a resounding testament to India’s growing digital payment ecosystem.” He also said that it shows “deepening trust in UPI as a preferred mode of transaction.”

Tesla Wants to Sell, Not Make Cars in India: Kumaraswamy

June 3, 2025, 1:12 pm

Elon Musk’s Tesla does not plan to manufacture electric vehicles in India. On Monday, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy confirmed this. He stated, “Tesla only wants to open showrooms and sell imported cars.” Although India introduced a new EV policy to attract global carmakers, Tesla seems uninterested in setting up a plant.

Government to Invite EV Manufacturing Applications

Meanwhile, Kumaraswamy announced that India will soon invite applications under its EV manufacturing policy. He noted that carmakers like Mercedes-Benz, Skoda-Volkswagen, Hyundai, and Kia have shown strong interest in producing electric vehicles in the country.

New Policy Offers Lower Taxes for EV Imports

To encourage local production, the government launched a scheme offering major tax cuts. Under this plan, companies that invest at least $486 million to build EVs in India will benefit from reduced import duties.

Specifically, they can import a limited number of electric vehicles at just 15% duty — significantly lower than the existing 70% rate.

Tesla Missing Out on Manufacturing Opportunity

So far, Tesla has not responded positively to the offer. Instead of manufacturing locally, it wants to sell imported cars. However, the government hopes the new policy will attract serious investors and boost India's EV market. As more global brands show interest, India looks forward to becoming a key hub for electric vehicle production.

Disney Lays Off Hundreds in Major Restructuring Across Entertainment Divisions

June 3, 2025, 11:50 am

The Walt Disney Company has started a large wave of layoffs. According to reports, this round affects hundreds of employees. It targets multiple departments under Disney Entertainment, including marketing for both film and TV.

Cuts Go Beyond Marketing

Besides marketing teams, the layoffs also hit staff in TV publicity, casting, development, and corporate financial operations. Sources told Deadline that the number of job losses on both the film and TV sides is about the same.

Most Staff Affected Are Based in Los Angeles

Many of the impacted employees reportedly work at Disney Entertainment Television in Los Angeles. This marks the fourth round of layoffs in the past ten months. However, it is also the biggest so far.

Disney Restructures to Cut Costs

These layoffs are part of Disney’s ongoing efforts to cut costs. The company, like others in traditional media, is shifting its focus to streaming. At the same time, it is trying to deal with economic challenges.

Iger’s Goal: Save $7.5 Billion

When Bob Iger returned as CEO in early 2023, he set a bold goal. He aimed to cut $7.5 billion in costs. That year, the company eliminated about 7,000 jobs.

Earlier Layoffs in March and October

In March, Disney laid off around 200 people. That round impacted almost 6% of the staff at ABC News and networks like Freeform and FX.

Before that, in October, Disney shut down ABC Signature. Its operations moved to 20th Television. The company also merged scripted drama and comedy teams for ABC and Hulu Originals. That restructuring led to around 30 more job cuts.

Lower-Level Executives Also Impacted

This latest round has also affected lower-ranking staff. Deadline reported that a manager of drama programming at ABC Hulu lost their job too.

Stock Market Tumbles as Trump Announces Steeper Steel Tariffs

June 2, 2025, 1:56 pm

Indian stock markets opened with a steep fall on Monday. The sharp drop followed renewed tariff threats from US President Donald Trump, which shook investor confidence.

As a result, the Sensex slipped more than 700 points to 80,688. Likewise, the Nifty plunged over 200 points to 24,538. This sharp decline came in the middle of India’s quarterly earnings season.

Foreign Outflows Deepen Market Pain

Moreover, foreign investors rushed to sell Indian stocks. On Friday alone, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded shares worth nearly ₹6,450 crore, according to exchange data.

Consequently, several major stocks suffered heavy losses. HDFC Bank, HCL Tech, Infosys, Tech Mahindra, and Tata Steel ranked among the worst performers. In contrast, Hindustan Unilever, Adani Ports, and Mahindra & Mahindra managed modest gains.

Global Cues Add to Pressure

In addition, weak global signals added pressure. Other Asian markets like Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Shanghai also traded lower. Investors reacted to the fear of higher US steel tariffs.

Meanwhile, US markets ended mixed last week, which further contributed to the cautious sentiment in Asia.

Trump’s Tariff Threat Shakes Markets

Last week, Trump addressed a rally in Pennsylvania. During the speech, he announced plans to double import tariffs on steel and aluminium from 25% to 50%.

He said, “We are going to be imposing a 25 per cent increase. We’re going to bring it from 25 per cent to 50 per cent – the tariffs on steel into the United States of America, which will even further secure the steel industry in the United States.”

Furthermore, Trump accused China of going back on its commitments. He claimed Beijing had failed to roll back tariffs and trade restrictions as agreed.

Domestic Earnings May Offer Hope

Despite the negative global cues, experts say strong domestic earnings could support Indian markets in the short term. However, the immediate outlook remains cautious due to rising global trade tensions.

Trump Family’s Ties to Pakistan’s Crypto Deal Spark Controversy

July 8, 2025, 2:15 pm

Bilal Bin Saqib, CEO of the Pakistan Crypto Council, admitted that Pakistan’s recent crypto-friendly steps are political. He said they are mainly meant to fix the country's global image.

At a global crypto event in Las Vegas, he said, “Both Pakistan and Bitcoin have suffered from bad PR. We are looked at as being dangerous, risky and unstable. But once we look beyond these headlines, we can see a lot of potential, resources and talent. So Pakistan is looking for allies.”

WLFI’s Silence Triggers Political Concerns

Meanwhile, the silence of World Liberty Financial Inc. (WLFI) has raised new concerns. In April, the company signed a crypto deal with the Pakistan Crypto Council after speaking with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Notably, WLFI is largely owned by the Trump family. Now, a U.S. Senate subcommittee is asking WLFI about its communication with Pakistan’s government. However, the company has refused to comment, which has increased doubts.

As a result, many suspect the Trump family may be using political ties for personal business gain.

Pakistan Follows U.S. Lead on Crypto

Moreover, Saqib clearly stated that Pakistan is taking cues from the U.S. in its crypto journey. “We want to thank the US because we are getting inspired from them,” he said.

Back in March, Donald Trump signed an executive order to set up a national Bitcoin reserve. Soon after, Pakistan’s interest in crypto increased sharply.

Trump Family Linked to WLFI Deal

Furthermore, several members of the Trump family are connected to WLFI. Donald Trump Jr., Eric Trump, and Barron Trump are all part of the company as “Web3 Ambassadors.” These roles involve promoting crypto tools like digital wallets and apps.

Additionally, Zach Witkoff, the son of Trump’s former special envoy Steve Witkoff, is one of the company’s co-founders. On April 27, Zach shared on social media that the deal would “bring diversity and financial inclusion to the next generation in Pakistan and beyond.”

Crypto Push Tied to India-Pakistan Ceasefire

Soon after a terror attack in Pahalgam, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated. During that time, Trump claimed he helped broker a ceasefire between the two nations.

Interestingly, Pakistan supported Trump’s version. In contrast, India denied it and said the understanding was reached through bilateral discussions without much U.S. involvement.

Army Also Supports Crypto Expansion

Earlier this year, Saqib met with Army Chief Asim Munir. Later, Munir was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. During the meeting, they discussed plans to boost Pakistan’s crypto industry.

RBI Projects 6.5% Growth for India in FY26, Warns of Global Risks

May 29, 2025, 2:52 pm

According to the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) most recent annual report, India is expected to continue to be the fastest-growing major economy globally in 2025–26, with a forecast growth rate of 6.5 percent. This optimism stems from a strong economy, a strong financial sector, and ongoing government support in sustainable development. However, the central bank also issued a warning: global trade conflicts, continuing geopolitical uncertainty, and market volatility could jeopardize both inflation and growth goals.

Domestic Capabilities Drive the Development Forecast

The RBI drew attention to several internal causes driving India's robust growth. Private spending is consistently increasing. Corporates and banks have good balance sheets, therefore enabling confident lending and investing. Along with softer financial circumstances, the government's ongoing capital expenditure push keeps supporting economic activity. These drivers advance India ahead of other major countries taken together. Between 2024 and 2025, the RBI's financial footprint grew by 8.2 percent; its balance sheet as of March 31, 2025 totaled ₹76.25 lakh crore. The central bank could distribute a historic ₹2.69 lakh crore dividend to the government thanks to this rise. Gold reserves increased by a remarkable 52.09 percent on the asset side, whereas domestic investments rose by 14.32 percent. Foreign investments increased somewhat by 1.70%. Outstripping a 7.76 percent growth in expenses, the RBI's income grew 22.77 percent during the year. This produced a sizable surplus of Rs 2.68 lakh crore, up 27.37 percent from Rs 2.10 lakh crore the year before. The document confirms the main duties of the central bank: managing reserves, issuing currency, and guiding monetary policy.

What Lies Behind the Asset and Liability Change?

Currency in circulation jumped by 6.03 percent. Other liabilities increased 23.31 percent, but revaluation reserves climbed 17.32 percent. Domestic assets comprised 25.73% of the RBI's whole assets as of March 2025. Foreign currency holdings, gold including deposits, and foreign loans to financial institutions made up the other 74.27 percent. This combination reflects a modest change from the ratios of last year. ₹44,861.70 crore was moved this year from the RBI to its Contingency Fund. This initiative improves the bank's capacity to absorb economic shocks and guarantees preparation in unpredictable times. It also emphasizes the RBI's deliberate attitude toward harmonizing stability with expansion.

Growth with Vigilance

With the economy expected to head world growth once more in FY26, India's growth story inspires still. Strong basics at work are shown in the RBI's report—and a central bank ready to assist the rise of the economy. But with world hazards looming, the true test will be how India negotiates outside shocks while still on track for long-run, inclusive development.

Why Did e.l.f. Beauty Acquire Hailey Bieber’s Rhode?

May 29, 2025, 2:12 pm

Hailey Bieber's beauty and skincare company, Rhode, has been acquired by e.l.f. Beauty in a blockbuster deal worth approximately $1 billion. e.l.f. announced on Wednesday, May 28, that it would pay Rhode's shareholders $800 million in cash and stock and another $200 million in an earn-out that is contingent on performance over three years. New York Post reports that Sky Canaves, a researcher at eMarketer, described it as 'a bold move for e.l.f. into premium beauty at a time when the prestige side of the business has lost some of its momentum due to consumers purchasing less or trading down'. Finance specialist Mahalakshmi C went on Instagram to analyze the thinking behind this purchase. Her background includes an MBA from Dartmouth's Tuck School of Business, and her bio lists venture capital experience, calling it 'kinda like Shark Tank'. Mahalakshmi clarified in her post, "Celebrity brand purchases are typically structured like this: the celebrity remains a part of the company for a couple of years. Everyone is aware of the fact that the celebrities and their own brands are responsible for developing these companies. Preferably, the buying company will find ways to develop the brand in spite of the celebrity in the next couple of years. Meanwhile, the company is motivated to continue with good performance with a payment down the line. This is an earn-out. For Rhode, it was purchased for $1bn, but $200mn will be received only if the company achieves certain targets within the next 3 years."

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Mahalakshmi summarized three key reasons for the deal:

1. Diversification Beyond China Calling it a 'Not-Just-China strategy', Mahalakshmi pointed out that around 75% of e.l.f.'s existing product manufacturing is in China exposing it to a significant 55% tariff. Rhode, on the other hand, sources its ingredients from the U.S., Europe, and other regions in Asia. This provides e.l.f. with a more diversified and less tariff-exposed supply chain. 2. Foray into Premium Beauty and Prestige Retail Another major reason is e.l.f.'s foray into the premium segment. Mahalakshmi explained that although e.l.f.'s lip stain costs $6, Rhode's lip tint costs $18. "Rhode to debut in Sephora US and Canada in fall 2025. E.l.f retails in Target, Ulta, Walmart, CVS, etc." She further added, "E.l.f will receive access to a new consumer base altogether. It's acquiring a passport into the premium aisle without rebranding." 3. Ongoing Role for Hailey Bieber The agreement also highlights the continued participation of Hailey in the company. Mahalakshmi stated, "Hailey to remain strategic advisor and chief innovation officer," to establish that e.l.f. recognizes her contribution to Rhode's brand value and consumer marketability. She continued, "Rhode will get $800 million upfront ($600m cash + $200m e.l.f shares) and $200m if the company does well for the next 3 years." She noted that e.l.f. "will still leverage Hailey's brand to expand the business." Overall, the deal provides e.l.f. with the opportunity to diversify away from China, access a higher-end beauty category, and ride Hailey Bieber's celebrity cred—while trying to make Rhode more independent.

Court Rejects Trump Team’s India-Pak Ceasefire Tariff Defence

May 29, 2025, 12:10 pm

A US federal trade court has ruled against Donald Trump's effort to impose blanket tariffs, dismissing the administration's claim that tariffs were needed to help bring a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. The New York Court of International Trade held that Trump had gone beyond his statutory powers when he imposed new tariffs, including a 26% tariff on Indian imports. A three-judge panel said, "The court does not pass upon the wisdom or likely effectiveness of the President's use of tariffs as leverage." The government had argued that the 10 May 2025 India-Pakistan ceasefire was the outcome of strategic American trade proposals. The court, however, did not buy that explanation and shut down the tariff proposal.

Tariffs Presented as Foreign Policy Tool

In a 23 May court submission, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard W. Lutnick supported Trump's exercise of emergency authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) as "a powerful foreign policy tool." He contended that constricting presidential power under IEEPA had far-reaching implications, saying it would affect all strategic applications of economic leverage. Lutnick cautioned that, "a negative ruling that limits presidential authority in this instance would cause India and Pakistan to doubt the legitimacy of President Trump's proposal, endangering the safety of a whole region and the lives of millions." He further pointed out that Trump's approach forced China to the negotiating table, accusing Beijing of being responsible for drug trade and the loss of American jobs.

India Rejects U.S. Role in Ceasefire

Indian officials, however, strongly dismissed claims that the United States helped broker the May 10 ceasefire. They clarified that the halt in fighting resulted from direct communication between the military leadership of both countries. According to India, the confrontation began on 7 May following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The court battle goes back to 2 April, when Trump introduced fresh tariffs, which included a 10% charge on most imports and even higher tariffs on imports from China and the European Union. He referred to the plan as "Liberation Day" and went on to suspend some of the stricter measures in hopes of pursuing trade agreements. The legal action was brought by attorneys general from 12 Democrat states, who referred to the tariff action as "unlawful and arbitrary." The court decision now threatens to be a major blow for the former administration's effort to associate aggressive trade policy with global peacemaking.

ITR Filing Changes: Deadline Extended, New Form Introduced

May 28, 2025, 4:03 pm

Income tax returns for the assessment year 2025–26 are to be filed a little differently because of new guidelines, forms, and an extended date. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has released updated versions of all seven income tax return forms, making changes particularly in the manner capital gains have to be disclosed. It has also officially extended the deadline for filing ITR from July 31 to September 15, 2025. CBDT, in a press release, stated, "CBDT has decided to extend the due date of filing of ITRs, which are due for filing by 31st July 2025, to 15th September 2025." The deadline extension comes as a relief raised by taxpayers and stakeholders and ensures that there is extra time for compliance. The due date was postponed due to the need for system upgrades in order to support the new forms. While the forms have been published, the e-filing tools are not yet live, so online submission is not yet available.

New ITR Forms and ITR-U Introduced

The CBDT has launched forms ITR-1 to ITR-7 and the verification form ITR-V. On May 19, there has been an introduction of new form ITR-U (Income Tax Updated Return), through which taxpayers can update or file returns for a period of 48 months due to changes in the Finance Act, 2025. Previously, taxpayers had 24 months to file an updated return. Now, returns for AYs 2021–22 through 2024–25 can be updated. However, ITR-U comes with restrictions: it cannot be used to claim refunds, carry forward losses, or lower previously declared income. In addition, it cannot be filed when a show-cause notice under Section 148A has been served more than 36 months from the concerned year. However, when the assessing officer concludes under Section 148A(3) that reassessment is not required, ITR-U may still be filed within 48 months.

Significant Change: Reporting Capital Gains

One of the largest changes this year pertains to the reporting of long-term capital gains (LTCG). The exemption limit for LTCG on listed equities and mutual funds has been raised from ₹1 lakh to ₹1.25 lakh. This is intended to benefit retail investors. With this, taxpayers earning LTCG of up to ₹1.25 lakh and having no capital loss to bring forward can now submit easier forms such as ITR-1 or ITR-4, rather than the more complex ITR-2 or ITR-3. The updated ITR-1 and ITR-4 now have dedicated columns for reporting exempt LTCG under Section 112A, making the experience less tedious for salaried individuals and small business owners. But if taxpayers have short-term capital gains or wish to carry forward losses, they will continue to file ITR-2 or ITR-3. After the Budget 2024 introduction of new tax rates on capital gains, the Capital Gains Schedule has also been amended. Taxpayers are now required to declare gains differently for income received prior to and after July 23, 2024, in order to use the appropriate rates.

Buyback Tax Shift to Investors

From October 1, 2024, the companies will no longer pay tax on share buybacks. Instead, investors will have to report the amount received as a deemed dividend under 'Other Income' in their ITR. Related capital losses should also be reported separately. ITR-5 and ITR-6 have also been modified accordingly. ITR-5 will only accept real buyback-based losses, subject to the condition that the dividend is taxed. ITR-6 has new reporting categories for capital gains, cruise income, and diamond trading profits.

MSME Payment Disclosures

Firms and professionals now must report the number of days for realization of payments to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), promoting timely payments and transparency.

Assets and Liabilities Threshold Raised

Threshold for disclosure of personal assets and liabilities in the AL Schedule has been raised from ₹5 million to ₹10 million. Though it gives relief, keeping proper records of assets, debt, and financial transactions during the year is still advised.

Don't File Too Early, Experts Warn

Although forms have been made available, tax experts suggest that salaried taxpayers should not file their returns until June 15, 2025. One main reason is Form 16, issued by the employer every year by June 15. It contains salary information, deductions under Sections such as 80C and 80D, and overall taxable income. Panticipating and filing first can result in errors or omissions. Secondly, e-filing utilities are still not out, which again adds support to the contention that one should wait until mid-June for a less cumbersome and error-free experience of filing.

Tesla sales crash in Europe yet stock rises? Know the hidden factors behind the rally

May 27, 2025, 10:51 pm

European sales Tesla of fell by nearly 50% in April, even as overall EV sales on the continent grew, according to the company's recent sales reports.

Elon Musk Blames Weak Market Conditions of Downfall of Tesla

However, Musk is claiming that the sudden drop in sales this time is mainly due to the weakening market conditions in Europe. During the recent Qatar Economic Forum, he flatly claimed, “The European car market is quite weak,” as quoted by Fortune. “That’s true of all manufacturers. There’s no exceptions," he also stated, denying to accept the fact that European consumers are shying away from his brand.

Stock Market Reaction and Global Market Factors

Even though new data revealed that Tesla's European sales halved in April, Tesla's stock price still rose by 2.3% in premarket trading, according to Barron. Even though China's EV industry has begun an all-new price war, that has still not wavered Tesla's prospects in the stock market. Moreover, Donald Trump delaying the implementation of tariffs on the EU until July could see the stock markets go for a rebound. It was previously announced that the tariff implementation would begin June 1, and now it has been stretched for another month.

Tesla Stock Performance and Future Plans

As of Tuesday, Tesla's stock has fallen nearly 16% this year. However, on the plus side, it has risen by a whopping 43% in the April 22 earnings report, says Barron. Bolstered by this development, the Musk-owned company is moving ahead with its plan of launching a self-driving taxi service in Austin, Texas, this June. This could, investors feel, unlock a new set of earnings growth for Tesla.

Putin Says McDonald’s Won’t Get a Red-Carpet Return

May 27, 2025, 8:57 am

Russian President Vladimir Putin made it clear that McDonald’s won’t receive any special welcome if it returns to Russia. The state-run TASS news agency reported his comments during a conversation with a top Russian fast-food executive.

McDonald’s Pulled Out in 2022

In 2022, McDonald’s left Russia. This happened after Western countries imposed sanctions over the Ukraine war. As a result, the fast-food giant sold its business to a local investor, Alexander Govor. He had been a McDonald’s franchise partner since 2015 and operated 25 outlets in Siberia.

Putin Criticizes McDonald’s Exit

While speaking to Oleg Paroyev, CEO of “Vkusno i Tochka” (which means “Tasty and That’s It”), Putin criticized the U.S. company’s exit.

“They (McDonald's) put everyone in a difficult position, ran away, and now, if they want to come back, are we supposed to roll out the red carpet for them? Of course not,” he said.

Return Must Follow Russian Terms

Next, Putin explained that he already discussed the matter with other officials. “I have talked with colleagues, and I have already tasked the government with working out a framework for the possible return of companies wishing to re-enter the Russian market – calmly and without any hostility, taking into account that the most important thing is to protect the interests of our businesses.”

Putin Mocks Possible Buyback

Then, he made a sarcastic remark about the idea of McDonald’s buying its business back. He asked Paroyev if those “not-so-conscientious partners” had the right to return.

When Paroyev said they did, Putin responded, “Remember that old joke? Only chumps settle up. It's the same thing here.”

Local Entrepreneurs Will Get Full Support

Moreover, Putin assured Paroyev that Russian entrepreneurs will get full government support. “There can't even be any doubts about this. Together with you, we will work through everything, think it through, and go down to the last detail. But only to our advantage,” he said.

Western Firms Seek Return

Meanwhile, Putin said several Russian businesses have informed him that their foreign partners want to return. He replied firmly. “I replied – let them come back but make sure it’s on your terms. If it is advantageous for you, let them return. If it works for you, go ahead, if not, we’ll make it so it does. That’s it.”

Putin Targets U.S. Tech Companies

Earlier on Monday, Putin also targeted U.S. tech firms still operating in Russia. He was responding to a Russian businessman who said companies like Zoom and Microsoft continue limited operations.

Putin replied, “We need to throttle them. I completely agree, and I say this without hesitation.”

Many Western Brands Left After Sanctions

Since Russia launched its military campaign in Ukraine, many Western companies have left the country. Others have scaled back their operations. This followed tough economic sanctions by Ukraine’s allies.

However, Putin said Russia did not push anyone out. “We have provided the most favourable conditions for them to work in our market, and they are trying to throttle us,” he said.

U.S. Firms Show Interest in Returning

Finally, in April, Kirill Dmitriev, who heads Russia’s sovereign wealth fund and acts as Putin’s economic envoy, said many U.S. companies have asked to return to the Russian market.

Tesla CFO Vaibhav Taneja Earned $139 Million in 2024, Surpassing Pichai and Nadella

May 23, 2025, 1:30 pm

Vaibhav Taneja, Tesla’s Chief Financial Officer, has attracted widespread attention after it was revealed that he earned $139 million in 2024, a figure that puts him ahead of other major tech leaders like Google’s Sundar Pichai and Microsoft’s Satya Nadella in terms of compensation.

While Sundar Pichai earned $10.73 million from Alphabet, and Satya Nadella received $79.1 million from Microsoft, Taneja’s pay stood out not because of his salary alone but due to the large share of stock-based rewards he received.

Most of Taneja’s Earnings Came from Stock Options

According to financial experts, Taneja’s huge compensation wasn’t limited to a fixed salary. His base salary was $400,000 (around ₹3.33 crore). The remaining amount primarily came from stock options and equity rewards tied to Tesla's performance. When these stock benefits were granted, Tesla shares were priced at $250.

Tax expert Dhruv Janssen-Sanghavi explained that Taneja’s actual cash salary was $303,864 for 2024. He added, “The other elements included an equity award and equity options. The value of these stocks on the day on which he acquires them over and above the discounted price he must pay for them would also count as his remuneration.”

From Delhi University to Tesla CFO

Vaibhav Taneja, 47, studied Commerce at Delhi University, graduating in 1999. He became a chartered accountant in 2000 and later a certified public accountant in 2006. He began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), where he worked for 17 years across India and the U.S.

Taneja moved to Tesla after SolarCity, the company he was working for, was bought by Elon Musk in 2016. He started as assistant corporate controller and quickly climbed the ranks.

By 2019, he became chief accounting officer, and in 2023, he took over as CFO, following the departure of Zach Kirkhorn. Tesla's decision to promote him was in line with its preference for internal leadership rather than external hires.

A Strong Link to India

Taneja has also been closely involved in Tesla's India plans. In January 2021, he was named a director of Tesla India Motors and Energy Pvt. Ltd, showing his influence in shaping the company's activities in the Indian market.

He is the second Indian-origin executive to serve as Tesla’s CFO. Deepak Ahuja, who held the post before him, worked from 2017 to 2019 before moving to Verily Life Sciences. Ahuja is now the CFO at Zipline, a U.S.-based drone delivery company.

Praised for Calm Leadership Style

Those who’ve worked with Taneja describe him as grounded and practical. Manuj Khurana, a former Tesla executive and now Vice President at Ather Energy, recalled working with him when Taneja was Tesla's chief accounting officer.

“He was always very calm, collected and grounded and had absolutely no airs. His approach was always very practical and that is something that is extremely necessary in a place like Tesla where things can change overnight. His rise is very much a function of his ability as well as Tesla's meritocratic culture,” Khurana said.

Redefining the Indian Executive Role

Taneja’s rise has sparked conversations about Indian-origin professionals succeeding in top global roles outside traditional tech paths. Unlike Pichai and Nadella, who come from engineering backgrounds, Taneja has a finance and commerce education, proving that business and leadership skills are just as valued in global companies.

Shipments of Indian Mangoes Rejected by US Over Documentation Errors

May 20, 2025, 1:31 pm

US officials have rejected more than a dozen shipments of Indian mangoes because of documentation issues. At least 15 mango consignments were denied entry into the US, India’s top mango export destination, due to alleged paperwork problems.

Mangoes Rejected at Multiple Airports

These shipments arrived at major US airports such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta. However, local authorities refused to clear them. Officials gave exporters two options—either destroy the mangoes or send them back to India. Since mangoes are highly perishable and the cost of return is too high, exporters chose to discard the fruit.

Dispute Over Irradiation Process Paperwork

An official linked the rejection to issues in documentation related to irradiation treatment. This process involves using controlled doses of radiation to eliminate pests and extend shelf life. It is mandatory for mangoes entering the US market. The report said the rejected mangoes were treated on May 8 and 9 at an irradiation facility in Mumbai.

Exporters believe the paperwork was in order. They said the irradiation was done at a certified facility in Navi Mumbai and was supervised by an officer from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Exporters Say They Are Paying for Someone Else’s Mistake

Exporters expressed disappointment over the loss. They estimate the total financial hit at around $500,000. “We are being penalised for mistakes made at the irradiation facility,” one exporter told The Economic Times.

After the incident, the USDA made it clear that the US government would not be responsible for correcting or compensating for the rejected cargo. A USDA notification sent to one of the exporters stated the government would not take any “remedial measures for this shipment.”

Indian Authorities Refer Responsibility to Local Facility

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) responded to the issue by directing attention to the irradiation center involved. Quoted by ET, the APEDA chairman’s office said, “The matter pertains to the shipment of mangoes from USDA approved facility, Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board (MSAMB) located at Vashi, Mumbai. Hence inputs may be sought from them.”

India’s Global Role in Mango Production

India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes. It grows over 1,000 different types and contributes about 43% of global mango output. That’s more than the next four biggest producers combined.

CATL Impresses on Debut: Shares Jump in Record Hong Kong IPO

May 20, 2025, 12:16 pm

CATL, the world’s largest electric vehicle battery maker, made a powerful entry into the Hong Kong stock market. On its first day of trading, its shares jumped by 18%. As a result, the company raised nearly HK$35.7 billion ($4.55 billion).

Supplying the World’s Biggest Carmakers

Currently, CATL produces over one-third of all EV batteries worldwide. It supplies major global car brands like Tesla, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Therefore, the company holds a strong position in the fast-growing EV industry.

IPO Gains Attention Amid Trade Tensions

Meanwhile, CATL’s stock debut gained attention due to the ongoing US-China tariff war. The conflict has disrupted global trade and affected the auto industry. Despite this, analysts praised CATL’s performance.

Neil Beveridge, research head at Bernstein, said, “The performance of the stock was very good in what is going to be a key IPO for Hong Kong given the size of the listing.”

U.S. Military Link Claim Sparks Debate

Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of Defense added CATL to a list of firms allegedly connected to China’s military. However, CATL denied the charge, saying the move was a “mistake.”

Chinese Market Powers CATL’s Growth

At present, CATL already trades on China’s Shenzhen Stock Exchange. Its total valuation there is over 1 trillion yuan ($138.7 billion). Moreover, China accounts for about 70% of its total revenue. Because of this, the company is not heavily impacted by U.S. trade policies.

Beveridge explained, “The direct implications of what we are seeing with tariffs will only have a limited effect on the company.”

Rapid Expansion in Europe

Founded in 2011 in the eastern Chinese city of Ningde, CATL grew quickly as China’s EV sector boomed. Today, it employs over 100,000 people and operates 13 factories worldwide.

Furthermore, the company is expanding in Europe. After opening a German plant in 2023, CATL is now building a second European factory in Hungary. Additionally, in December, it teamed up with Stellantis to launch a $4.3 billion battery plant in Spain. That plant is expected to open by the end of next year.

Heavy Investment in Innovation

In addition to expanding production, CATL focuses strongly on research and development. It has six R&D centers across the globe. Tim Buckley, founder of the Australian think tank Climate Energy Finance, praised their innovation.

He said, “The innovations that we're seeing from CATL are unbelievable, particularly in the fast charging area.”

Last month, CATL introduced a new battery that can deliver a 323-mile (520 km) range after just five minutes of charging.

Supplying Tesla Despite U.S. Concerns

CATL also supplies Tesla’s Shanghai factory with lithium iron phosphate batteries. Nevertheless, U.S. lawmakers have raised national security concerns.

In April, the chairman of the House Select Committee on China urged JPMorgan and Bank of America to cut ties with CATL’s Hong Kong IPO.

Experts Urge Cooperation, Not Isolation

Despite political tension, some experts believe the U.S. should partner with China on clean energy. Buckley said, “They're rejecting by far the best technology players in the world when it comes to clean tech.”

Piyush Goyal, U.S. Officials Accelerate Talks on Bilateral Trade Agreement

May 20, 2025, 9:14 am

Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick On Tuesday. They discussed how to fast-track the first stage of the India-U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement.

After the meeting, Goyal posted on X, “Good discussions with Secretary Howard Lutnick towards expediting the first tranche of India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement.”

https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1924540758050197796

India Races to Seal Deal Before Tariff Deadline

Earlier in April, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on new tariff hikes. This included a proposed 26% tariff on Indian goods. As a result, India is working to finalize a trade agreement during this limited window.

Trade Between U.S. and India Continues to Grow

So far, trade between India and the U.S. reached about $129 billion in 2024. Notably, the U.S. remains India’s largest trading partner. Moreover, India holds a $45.7 billion trade surplus with Washington.

Trump Says India May Scrap All Tariffs

Last week, Trump claimed that India is ready to lift all tariffs on American goods. However, he also said, “I’m in no hurry to reach a trade deal with the country.” During a Fox News interview, he stressed that India had strong trade barriers he intended to remove.

Jaishankar Emphasizes Fairness in Talks

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded to Trump’s remarks. He said, “Between India and the US, trade talks have been going on. These are complicated negotiations. Nothing is decided till everything is.”

Furthermore, he added, “Any trade deal has to be mutually beneficial; it has to work for both countries. That would be our expectation from the trade deal. Until that is done, any judgment on it would be premature.”

Deal May Roll Out in Three Phases

According to Bloomberg, the India-U.S. trade deal may develop in three stages.

First, both countries may agree on limited market access. This includes industrial goods and some agricultural products. The goal is to lower basic trade barriers.

Then, in the second stage, the deal could expand. It may cover wider issues like easing strict quality checks and product regulations. Officials expect this stage to launch between September and November 2025.

Finally, the third stage would lead to a full agreement. However, the U.S. Congress must approve it. Therefore, officials believe this phase might not conclude until 2026.

Trump’s Proposed Remittance Tax Could Deeply Impact Indian Families: GTRI Report

May 18, 2025, 3:04 pm

A new proposal by US President Donald Trump to impose a 5% tax on money transfers made by non-citizens has raised concerns globally, especially in India. The Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), a trade research group, highlighted in its latest report that this move could have serious consequences for Indian households.

India Faces Major Risks from US Remittance Tax

According to GTRI, this proposed tax would increase the cost of sending money home for millions of Indians living and working in the US. The legislation, introduced in the US House of Representatives on May 12 under the title "The One Big Beautiful Bill", aims to impose a 5% fee on all international money transfers made by non-US citizens.

This includes individuals with green cards or temporary work visas like H-1B and H-2A. However, American citizens are excluded from this tax. The funds would be collected by banks and remittance service providers and sent to the US Treasury every quarter.

India Receives the Highest Share of US Remittances

The report emphasized that India is particularly vulnerable. In the financial year 2023-24, India received $120 billion in remittances, and nearly 28% of that amount came from the US alone. GTRI, led by its founder and former Indian trade official Ajay Srivastava, warned that a 5% tax could significantly increase costs for those sending money back home.

It stated, “The pain wouldn't stop at the exchange rate. In states like Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, millions of families rely on remittances to cover essential expenses such as education, healthcare, and housing. A sudden decline in these flows could hit household consumption hard--at a time when the Indian economy is already navigating global uncertainty and inflation pressures.”

A Drop in Remittances Could Hurt the Rupee

GTRI estimates that if remittances fall by 10–15% due to this tax, India could lose between $12 billion and $18 billion annually. This shortfall could lead to a tighter supply of US dollars in India’s foreign exchange reserves and put pressure on the Indian rupee.

The report also warns that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) may need to step in more often to prevent the currency from falling further. If the situation worsens, the rupee could depreciate by ₹1 to ₹1.5 against the US dollar.

Other Countries Also at Risk

India is not the only country that could be affected. The GTRI report pointed out that nations such as El Salvador and Mexico also face similar risks. Remittances account for over 25% of El Salvador’s GDP and about 4% of Mexico’s. A tax on remittances could seriously hurt their economies too.

In summary, GTRI warns that the proposed tax would not only raise costs for workers abroad but could also affect families, the economy, and the strength of India’s currency back home.

India Traders Boycott Turkey and Azerbaijan Over Support to Pakistan

May 18, 2025, 2:53 pm

Union Minister of State Bhagirath Choudhary said on Sunday that people across India are angry with countries that support terrorism. His remarks come as public and trade groups call for a boycott of Turkey and Azerbaijan over their support for Pakistan.

Public Outrage Against Terrorism Supporters

Choudhary told ANI, "Across the country, there is anger against terrorism and those who support terrorism. Turkey has openly come out in support (of Pakistan). In every sector, those who are engaged in marble, granite are calling for a boycott of all (countries) that support terrorism."

Gwalior Traders Take a Stand

Traders in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, have decided to stop all trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Their move aligns with India's strong stance against nations that sided with Pakistan during the recent conflict.

Bhupendra Jain, President of the Madhya Pradesh unit of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), confirmed this. He said, "We have decided to teach a lesson to Turkey and Azerbaijan, the countries that helped Pakistan. We helped Turkey in the earthquake through Operation Dost. Today, it helped our enemy and fired shells, drones and missiles at us."

Three Key Decisions by CAIT

Jain added that CAIT made three clear decisions:

Stop all imports and exports with Turkey and Azerbaijan.
Discourage tourism to Turkey.
Urge filmmakers not to shoot films in either country.

He stated, "Trade with Azerbaijan and Turkey has been stopped. Three decisions have been taken in CAIT. First, we will not import or export anything. Second, we are opposing tourism in Turkey. Third, national-level filmmaker, director, producer should not shoot films in Turkey or Azerbaijan."

Nationwide Boycott After Trade Conference

Following a national meeting of trade leaders, BJP MP and CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal announced a broader boycott.

He said, "A collective decision has been taken in the conference of trade leaders today to end all trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan. The reason is clear -- Turkey and Azerbaijan have openly supported Pakistan against India."

Textile Traders Join the Boycott

The Bangalore Wholesale Cloth Merchants' Association (BWCMA) also announced a halt to all textile trade with Turkey and Azerbaijan. In a letter, the association stated that the boycott would remain until further notice. Any updates would be shared by its governing body.

The growing trade boycott signals India’s firm response to countries that back Pakistan, especially in times of conflict.

Moody’s Cuts US Rating to Aa1, Cites Debt and Governance Issues

May 17, 2025, 8:29 am

Moody’s Ratings downgraded the U.S. government’s top credit rating on Friday. It dropped the rating from Aaa to Aa1, ending the country’s long-standing position at the highest level.

Still, the agency acknowledged America’s strong economic fundamentals. Moody’s said the U.S. “retains exceptional credit strengths such as the size, resilience, and dynamism of its economy and the role of the US dollar as a global reserve currency.”

Debt and Interest Costs Prompted the Downgrade

According to Moody’s, the downgrade happened because of a decade-long rise in debt and interest payments. These costs have now reached levels far higher than those of other top-rated countries.

Furthermore, Moody’s projected that the U.S. budget deficit will worsen. It expects the federal deficit to grow to 9% of GDP by 2035, up from 6.4% in 2024. This will likely result from rising interest payments, increased spending on entitlement programs, and relatively low government revenue.

As a result, the agency believes the federal debt burden will hit 134% of GDP by 2035. For comparison, it stood at 98% in 2024.

Trump’s Budget Plan Suffers a Setback

Meanwhile, the downgrade dealt a blow to Donald Trump. His main spending proposal failed to pass a key vote in Congress. Many Republican lawmakers opposed it, citing concerns over fiscal discipline.

Moreover, Moody’s noted that extending Trump’s 2017 tax cuts — a top goal of the Republican-led Congress — would increase the primary deficit by $4 trillion over the next decade. This figure excludes interest payments.

Moody’s Joins S&P and Fitch

Moody’s is now the third major agency to lower the U.S. rating. Earlier, S&P cut the U.S. credit rating in 2011 during President Obama’s first term. It pointed to weak plans for managing debt. Then, Fitch followed in 2023, warning about the steady decline in governance and fiscal policy.

Now, Moody’s echoes these concerns. It stated, “Successive US administrations and Congress have failed to agree on measures to reverse the trend of large annual fiscal deficits and growing interest costs.”

Additionally, the agency said, “We do not believe that material multi-year reductions in mandatory spending and deficits will result from current fiscal proposals under consideration.”

It warned that the U.S. is likely to perform worse than it has in the past — and worse than other high-rated countries.

Political Division Continues

On Friday, the U.S. House Budget Committee rejected a large Republican package of tax cuts and spending reductions. Notably, a few far-right Republicans joined Democrats to block the proposal. They demanded deeper cuts to Medicaid and to President Joe Biden’s clean energy tax incentives.

Therefore, the political divide remains a key obstacle to solving the budget crisis. Republicans resist tax increases. Democrats oppose cutting key social programs.

White House Responds

Shortly after the downgrade, the White House fired back. On X, communications director Steven Cheung criticized one of the report’s authors. He said the author was “an Obama advisor and (Hillary) Clinton donor who has been a Never Trumper since 2016.”

Cheung added, “Nobody takes his ‘analysis’ seriously. He has been proven wrong time and time again.”

Adani Airports Terminate DragonPass Partnership; Adani Power Bags Major UP Contract

May 15, 2025, 11:26 pm

Adani Airport Holdings posted the decision to terminate its relationship with the newly established partnership with Chinese firm DragonPass immediately on Thursday, a week after association started. The company provided airport lounge access services. A spokesperson validated that customers of DragonPass will not receive lounge access at airports operated by Adani anymore, although the decision will not affect lounge and travel experience for other travelers. "Our association with DragonPass, which provided access to airport lounges, has been terminated with immediate effect. DragonPass customers will no longer have access to lounges at Adani-managed airports. This change will have no impact on the airport lounge and travel experience for other customers," an Adani Airport Holdings spokesperson said.

Background of the Partnership between Adani and DragonPass

This comes a week after Adani Digital Labs partnered with Dragonpass to elevate fliers' airport lounge and travel experiences. Adani Digital Labs is the digital innovation arm of the Adani Group, dedicated to transforming how billions of users interact with essential services. The company said that as the digital extension of Adani-managed airports under airports-holdings">Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL) and Adani Enterprises Ltd. (AEL), ADL plays a strategic role in shaping the future of travel and airport experiences.

ADL's Role in Airport Experience

The company further stated that ADL has thoroughly integrated itself into the operations of India's top airports, improving efficiency, personalisation, and connectivity across every touchpoint—streamlining passenger travel, facilitating cashless environments, and offering digital-first conveniences. Through the merger of cutting-edge technologies and human-centric design coupled with strong strategic alliances, ADL is reinventing what seamless, scalable, and fulfilling experiences mean, all in the light of the Adani Group's nation-building aspirations and customer-obsessed innovation.

Adani Power Secures Major UP Contract

In yet another development, Adani Power announced on Saturday that it won a closely contested auction to sell 1500 MW (net) thermal power to Uttar Pradesh. Under the agreement, the Adani Group firm will supply power at a highly competitive tariff rate of Rs 5.383 per unit from a greenfield 2x800 MW (1500 MW net) Ultra-supercritical power project it will establish in the state on the DBFOO model.

Inflation Update: April CPI Falls to 3.16%, Lowest in Nearly 6 Years | Rate Cut Hopes Rise

May 14, 2025, 3:14 am

India’s retail inflation fell for the seventh month in a row to reach 3.16% in April 2025, the lowest level since July 2019, according to the National Statistical Office (NSO). This drop, primarily driven by falling food prices, has raised expectations of a possible rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its June Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting.

Food Inflation Sees Sharp Drop

A significant reason behind the easing inflation is the steep fall in food prices. Food inflation dropped from 10.9% in October 2024 to just 1.8% in April 2025. Vegetable prices saw an annual decline of 11% in April, while pulses and spices also became cheaper. However, prices of edible oil and fruits continued to rise at double-digit rates.

Core Inflation Steady, Fuel Prices Rise Slightly

Core inflation, which excludes food and fuel items, remained stable at 4.1% in April. Despite a decline in global crude prices, domestic fuel inflation rose to 2.9%, up from 1.4% in March. This was partly due to an excise duty hike of ₹2 per litre on petrol and diesel from April 7.

RBI Outlook and Economic Growth Hopes

Economists believe the easing inflation paves the way for a 25 basis point rate cut by the RBI in June. The central bank has projected average inflation of 4% for 2025-26, aligning with its long-term target. Analysts expect low energy prices and a good monsoon to further stabilize prices and support economic growth.

Monsoon and Crop Outlook Positive

Good wheat procurement and forecasts of early monsoon rains in Kerala from May 27 are expected to benefit summer crops like paddy, maize, and soybean. These factors could help sustain low food inflation in the coming months.

M&S Confirms Customer Data Stolen in Cyber Attack

May 13, 2025, 8:46 pm

Marks & Spencer (M&S) has confirmed that personal customer information was among the items stolen in the recent cyber attack, and that this may include telephone numbers, home addresses and dates of birth.

Online Purchase History Compromised, But No Card Details Affected

The High Street retailer said the personal details stolen may also include online purchasing histories, but said the data theft did not involve usable payment or card details, or account passwords. M&S was targeted by the Cyber attack three weeks ago and is still trying to get services back to normal, with online orders still suspended.

Password Resets for Customer Accounts

The retailer added customers would be asked to reset account passwords "for extra peace of mind". M&S boss Stuart Machin told customers the firm was writing to them to tell them that "regrettably, some personal customer details have been stolen". "There is no evidence that the data has been passed on," he added. But it is believed the hackers may yet pass on or sell on the stolen data as part of the efforts to blackmail M&S, which is still a threat of identity theft.

Number of Affected Customers Unknown

The store has not said how many of its clients had their information taken, but added that it had written to all users of its website to tell them, reported the incident to the appropriate authorities and was in contact with cyber security specialists to keep any developments under review. Based on its final full-year results, the firm had around 9.4 million active internet customers in the year ended 30 March. Mr Machin added M&S was "working around the clock to get things back to normal" as soon as possible.

What Has Been Stolen?

M&S said the contact details stolen may include:

Name
Date of birth
Telephone number
Home address
Household information
Email address
Online order history

The retailer also said any card details stolen would not be usable because it does not store full card payment details on its systems.

What Should You Do?

M&S has stated that people do not need to do anything, but has also stated:

Users will be asked to reset their password for their online account
Customers should be careful as they "might receive emails, calls or texts purporting to be from M&S when they are not"

You will never be contacted by us and asked for personal account details such as usernames or passwords.

Experts Urge Precaution After Breach

Lisa Barber, Which?'s tech editor, said that it was worrying that the criminals had obtained access to the information that was potentially useful for identity fraud. "It's always best to change your password as soon as possible if there has been a security breach and make sure your new password is distinct from any other online accounts," she said. Matt Hull, threat intelligence leader at cyber security firm NCC Group, said hackers who have stolen personal data can use it to "craft very convincing scams". "If you're unsure about an email's authenticity, don't click any links. Instead, visit the company's website directly to verify any claims."

Cyber Attack Began During Easter Weekend on M&S

Issues at M&S started during the Easter weekend when shoppers complained of issues with Click & Collect and contactless payments in stores. The retailer confirmed it was experiencing a "cyber incident" and although in-store services have returned to normal, its online orders on its website and app have been suspended since 25 April. There is still no indication of when online orders will return.

Cyber Gang Dragon Force Suspected Behind Attack on M&S

M&S' revelation that customer information had been hacked as part of the recent cyber attack was inevitable given the nature of the attack. The attackers behind it, who also recently attacked Co-op and Harrods, employed the DragonForce cyber crime service to conduct the attacks. DragonForce runs an affiliate cyber crime service on the darknet that anyone can use their malware and website to conduct attacks and extortions. The gang is reported to employ a double extortion tactic, which involves them stealing a backup of their victim's information and also scrambling it to render it unusable. They can subsequently validly demand a ransom for both unscrambling the information and erasing their backup. But if the hacked individual or company refuses to pay ransom, hackers can in certain instances begin leaking the pilfered data to other cyber hackers, who may seek to conduct additional attacks to get more sensitive information. Currently, DragonForce's darknet site has no mention of M&S.

Insider Insight on Retail Response of M&S

Jackie Naghten, a consultant who has advised large retailers such as M&S, Arcadia and Debenhams, said the management structure at M&S would be taking the data breach "very seriously", but cautioned that contemporary logistics in retail were "massively complex". "I think they have been keeping their powder dry. If they have nothing good to say then they are not saying anything," she said. Ms Naghten reported overall customers were being very supportive and sympathetic to the retailer. But she said it was probably M&S would have "another week" before it would need to offer details on when business as usual would be resumed. "It's costing them absolute fortunes," she said to the BBC. M&S shares have fallen around 12% in the last month.

Mark Zuckerberg Seeks Stablecoin Partnership for Meta’s Crypto Integration | Report

May 12, 2025, 2:51 pm

Bitcoin is once again making headlines, with a series of events engulfing the crypto world. Donald Trump, the former US President, has hinted at a 'truly earth-shattering' disclosure, and his crypto guru David Sacks has made some big claims in anticipation of an increase in bitcoin, sending traders into a frenzy. Meanwhile, a leaked report indicates Mark Zuckerberg will soon introduce cryptocurrency to Meta's platforms.

Bitcoin Boom and Meta Potential Merger

Bitcoin broke above $100,000, up 30% since its April lows. The stunning rally has rekindled bullish forecasts that bitcoin will usurp gold's $20 trillion market cap as a global store of value, according to Forbes. Simultaneously, a Fortune report says Meta is 'in talks with crypto companies to bring stablecoins for handling payouts'. While details are still pending confirmation, insiders believe this development could allow users to conduct transactions in digital assets or incorporate blockchain functionality into Meta's apps.

Meta's Renewed Interest in Crypto

Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is still reeling from its failed bid to build a global virtual reality experience with the Metaverse. Following the failure of its Libra digital currency (subsequently Diem) project in 2019 due to regulatory issues, Meta appears keen to get back into the crypto arena. The advent of USDT (Tether), which earned Tether $13 billion profits last year, has brought about savage competition. Traditional banks and technology giants like PayPal and Bank of America are now developing or launching their own stablecoins to reap a portion of the rapidly growing market. This dash for stablecoins signals a significant shift, with cryptocurrencies moving away from speculative investments towards becoming integral components of the global financial system.

Ceasefire Boosts Markets: Sensex Jumps 1,800 Points, Nifty Surges 500

May 12, 2025, 12:21 pm

Markets in India opened the week with sharp gains after India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday, May 10. The Sensex jumped 1,800 points while the Nifty rose 500 in early trade on Monday. Investors responded positively to easing border tensions, India’s strong military posture, and a surprise upgrade of the country’s sovereign rating by Morningstar DBRS.

The upbeat mood contrasted with last week’s heavy losses in Pakistan’s stock market, which saw its biggest single-day fall after India’s retaliatory airstrikes on terrorist and military targets in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Ceasefire and Market Reactions

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan, following a week of military airstrikes and retaliatory actions, brought a welcome sense of stability to the markets. In the days leading up to the ceasefire, India had carried out targeted airstrikes against terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). In retaliation, Pakistan attempted missile and drone strikes on Indian cities.

However, India's military response severely impacted Pakistan's defense infrastructure, with airbases, radar sites, and air defense units being hit. As a result, Pakistan reached out to India with a ceasefire request on May 10.

Following the ceasefire announcement, the Indian stock market experienced a sharp rebound. The Sensex soared by 1,800 points, while Nifty rose by 500 points. Key stocks like Axis Bank, Adani Ports, Bajaj Finserv, and Bajaj Finance led the rally on the Sensex. Similarly, Adani Enterprises, Jio Financial Services, and Shriram Finance were the top gainers on Nifty.

Boosted Investor Confidence

Investor confidence was further bolstered by India's sovereign rating upgrade by Morningstar DBRS, which moved India's rating from BBB (low) to BBB (stable). Devarsh Vakil, Head of Prime Research at HDFC Securities, pointed out that this upgrade, even amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions with Pakistan, added significant positive sentiment to the Indian market.

Devarsh Vakil noted that the upgrade signals a more stable economic environment, which reassured investors and contributed to the market surge. The combination of the ceasefire and improved economic outlook provided a strong catalyst for the rally.

Disruptions and Reactions in Pakistan

While the Indian market saw a major recovery, Pakistan's market faced a severe blow. The heightened conflict and airstrikes resulted in the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) experiencing its biggest single-day drop, falling by a staggering 6,482 points. The impact of India’s military actions on Pakistan’s infrastructure created significant uncertainty, leading to investor panic and the sharp decline in stock values.

Despite the market disruptions, there was no widespread panic among Indian investors. The situation remained relatively controlled, with investors largely remaining confident in India's resilience and military strategy.

The ceasefire between India and Pakistan may bring temporary relief to the stock markets, but geopolitical tensions in the region remain high. Investors will continue to monitor the situation closely, especially with the potential for future flare-ups.

However, the rebound in the Indian market demonstrates that investor sentiment can recover quickly, particularly when backed by strong economic indicators and positive geopolitical developments.

Market Optimism and Confidence

The Sensex and Nifty's sharp surge after the India-Pakistan ceasefire demonstrates the strong link between geopolitics and financial markets. As India and Pakistan move toward de-escalation, market participants remain hopeful for continued stability.

The Indian economy's resilient performance, even in the face of military conflicts, and the recent sovereign rating upgrade have played a crucial role in boosting investor confidence.

Ceasefire Boosts Market Sentiment Amid Global Gloom: What’s Next for Investors?

May 12, 2025, 9:53 am

The newly declared India-Pakistan ceasefire has caused a major relief—not only to geopolitical analysts, but also to financial markets. Financial analysts were concerned that a prolonged war would upset investor sentiment and damage the economy. Thankfully, such a situation has been avoided, and the attention now goes to what is in store for investors.

Geopolitical Stability Reinforces Market Resilience

Despite escalating tensions over the past few weeks, the Indian equity market has shown remarkable resilience. This can be primarily driven by enduring Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) interest, supported by positive global macroeconomic fundamentals. Since the return of Donald Trump to the American presidency, the dollar index had risen to 111 in mid-January 2025, resulting in a sharp initiation of flows into U.S. equities and bonds. This rise created brutal FII flows out of emerging markets, including India. In January alone, India has seen an FII outflow worth ₹78,027 crores. But as the dollar index cooled down, FII selling abated—falling to ₹34,574 crores in February and ₹3,973 crores in March. The market witnessed a shift in April, as FIIs turned net buyers, pumping ₹4,223 crores. More significantly, they continued buying for 16 consecutive days, putting together ₹48,533 crores before a May 9 sell-off of ₹3,798 crores due to fears of conflict. Now that there is a ceasefire, the stage is set for a possible renewal of FII buying.

Weakness in the World, Strength in India

Around the world, large economies are struggling with contraction or stagnation. American GDP fell 0.3% in Q1 of calendar year 2025, and Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has cautioned that "risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation have risen." China, weighed down by retaliatory American tariffs, won't likely increase more than 4%. Europe and emerging economies are also wrestling with weak growth and increasing expenses. Against this background, India is the standout. With over 6% projected GDP growth, along with a 15% anticipated increase in corporate profits and a downtrend in inflation, the Indian economy presents a relatively positive picture. The Reserve Bank of India's decision to trigger a rate-cut cycle has further improved sentiment.

Large Caps and SIPs to Drive the Rally

With FIIs having a penchant for large-cap stocks, this space is likely to head the next leg of the rally. April's historical Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) inflows of ₹26,632 crores are another solid tailwind. But rising SIP stoppages are a worry. As the article suggests, "Investors are making a big mistake by halting SIPs. The sooner they undo it, the better." Among the most promising largecaps are financials such as ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and Chola Finance; auto leaders such as M&M and Eicher Motors; pharma giants such as Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy's, and Cipla; and industrial leaders such as L&T and ABB. Digital plays such as Eternal and Paytm, and consumer darlings such as Titan and Pidilite, also have strong prospects. Largecap IT seems to have bottomed, and midcap tech players such as Coforge and Persistent are likely to shine.

Outlook: Stability Breeds Optimism

With ceasefire relaxing and macro numbers in sync, the Indian market can potentially see a sustained rally. But investor discipline and long-term faith—especially through SIPs—will be vital to realizing the full power of this rally.

Nearly Half of Financial Planners Concerned About AI Security Risk

May 11, 2025, 2:23 pm

Despite the benefits, financial planners expressed reservations regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI), with 47 per cent citing data privacy and cybersecurity concerns, according to a report by FPSB India, the Indian subsidiary of the Financial Planning Standards Board. The report titled "How AI is Reshaping the Financial Planning Profession" further highlighted that about 42 per cent of financial companies' top executives are still concerned about the accuracy and reliability of AI outputs. On the positive side, the report highlights that over three-quarters of financial planners (78 per cent) believe AI will help them better serve clients, while 60 per cent believe it will enhance the quality of financial advice. Among the two-thirds of firms that currently use or plan to implement AI within the next year, adoption is most prevalent among small and very large companies. Meanwhile, half of the financial planners view AI positively, with only 8 per cent holding a negative opinion. "We are witnessing a pivotal moment in the financial planning profession as financial planners embrace AI to work smarter, allowing more time to engage in deeper human connection with clients such as navigating difficult conversations that impact financial decision-making and providing clarity and support to stay on track to achieve their life goals," added FPSB CEO Dante De Gori, CFP. The report further added that about 59 per cent of financial planners see AI as a tool to help reduce the cost of financial planning services and 60 per cent believe it will increase access to financial planning for underserved populations. The nonprofit standards-setting body for the global financial planning profession further observed that about 49 per cent of top executives of the financial planning firms expressed a need for professional development to improve their data analysis and interpretation skills. Over a third (36 per cent) believe both the public and the financial planning profession will greatly benefit from general education and training on AI, the report added. FPSB conducted the study by surveying over 6,200 financial planners across 24 territories worldwide, in collaboration with its global network of organizations. This article is a syndicated feed and has not been edited by The Daily Guardian, except the headline.

Sensex Sheds 500+ Points as Operation Sindoor Sparks Sell-Off Across Sectors

May 9, 2025, 10:27 am

Indian stock indices opened in negative territory after tensions between India and Pakistan worsened. The benchmark Nifty50 fell below 24,150, and the BSE Sensex dropped below the 80,000 mark. By 9:16 AM, Nifty50 was down 161 points (0.66%) at 24,113.30. Meanwhile, the Sensex slipped 471 points (0.59%) to trade at 79,863.96.

Despite the current situation, the Indian stock market has largely stayed calm. Since the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, both Nifty50 and Sensex have shown gains. In contrast, Pakistan's stock market has witnessed a sharp decline.

Why the Indian Market Remains Stable

Experts believe that India’s economic fundamentals are keeping the market strong despite short-term shocks. Dr. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, explained, “Under normal circumstances, on a day like this, the market would have suffered deep cuts. But this is unlikely due to two reasons. One, the conflict, so far, has demonstrated India’s clear superiority in conventional war fare, and therefore, further escalation of the conflict will inflict huge damage to Pakistan. Two, the market is inherently resilient supported by global and domestic macros. Weak dollar and potentially weakening US and Chinese economies are good for the Indian market. The domestic macros construct is further rendered stronger by the high GDP growth expected this year and the declining interest rate environment. These are the reasons why FIIs have been on a buying spree in the Indian market during the last sixteen trading sessions. Investors should not panic and exit from the market now. Remain invested, monitor the developments and wait for the dust to settle.”

Thursday’s Losses and What Lies AheadOn Thursday, markets closed lower as investors reacted to geopolitical concerns. This volatility led to a wipeout of ₹5 lakh crore in investor wealth. Analysts say market uncertainty may continue as both India-Pakistan relations and US trade policies evolve.

Meanwhile, US stock markets rose after positive updates on US-UK trade and hints from former President Trump that talks with China could become more meaningful. Asian stock markets also inched up on Friday after the announcement of a new UK trade deal and expectations of lower Chinese tariffs.

Rupee Takes a Hit

The Indian rupee fell sharply, marking its biggest single-day drop in more than two and a half years. It closed at 85.58 per US dollar on Thursday, down by 81 paise. Experts say this fall is mainly due to rising India-Pakistan tensions.

Anuj Choudhary, Research Analyst at Mirae Asset Sharekhan, said, "We expect the rupee to trade with a negative bias on the strong dollar and ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. Any further escalation may further pressurise the rupee. However, FII inflows may support the rupee at lower levels. Traders may take cues from weekly unemployment claims data from the US. USD-INR spot price is expected to trade in a range of 85.20 to 86."

Investment Trends

On the trading front, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth ₹2,008 crore net on Thursday. On the other hand, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth ₹596 crore net.

Gold Gains Ground

Gold prices went up on Friday as investors bought the metal following a recent drop. Many are looking ahead to the weekend’s trade discussions between the US and China, which may impact global markets further.

Bill Gates Pledges $200 Billion By 2045, Slams Elon Musk For ‘Killing The World’s Poorest’

May 9, 2025, 1:35 am

Gates Speeds Up Giving Strategy, Targets 2045 Deadline

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates on Thursday said he will give away almost all of his fortune about $200 billion by 2045 through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which will shut down the same year. The action dramatically speeds up the foundation's timeline, initially set to last beyond the founders' lifetimes. Gates stated that the money would be used to eradicate diseases like polio and malaria, lower child and maternal mortality, and fight global poverty.

Musk Criticized Over Foreign Aid Reductions

In a forceful denunciation, Gates castigated Elon Musk, the globe's wealthiest man, for presiding over draconian cuts in the US foreign assistance budget. Gates blamed Musk for "killing the world's poorest children" by having proposed cutting approximately 80% of USAID's $44 billion global programs using his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Gates warned that without adequate assistance, death rates worldwide may start to climb once more, ending decades of improvements.

Foundation Budget to Double, But Government Support Still Indispensable

The Gates Foundation is going to double its yearly expenditures to $9 billion by 2026 and about $10 billion every year thereafter. Yet Gates asserted that philanthropy can never entirely substitute government funds, especially those of the United States, which he noted remain essential for wiping out such diseases as polio.

Legacy of Giving and Continued Advocacy

Marking the 25th anniversary of the foundation, Gates looked back on its $100 billion achieved thus far and reiterated his focus on global health and equity. The two billionaires now find themselves in disagreement after aligning with Musk on philanthropy in the past. "There are too many pressing issues for me to hold on to resources," Gates said, continuing, "The world does have values. That's what my parents taught me."

Tesla India Head Prashanth Menon Resigns Ahead of Company’s Planned Launch

May 8, 2025, 4:23 pm

Tesla India country head Prashanth Menon quit his position shortly before the US electric vehicle juggernaut is all poised to establish its operations in India, according to Bloomberg News on Thursday. Menon had also resigned from being the chair of Tesla India's board and has been a nine-year company servant. As per Bloomberg, Tesla's China-based staff will now manage Indian operations in the meantime. No replacement for Menon has been announced immediately.

Tesla Prepares for India Launch

Earlier this year in March, Tesla agreed to lease its first Mumbai showroom, rekindling its long-postponed India entry strategy, as per Reuters. Nevertheless, the EV company is still awaiting clarity on lowering import duties before committing to full manufacturing in India. According to CNBC-TV18, Tesla wants to enter the Indian market with lower import tariffs, even while keeping local production plans pending.

Musk Waits for Policy Clarity

CEO Elon Musk is waiting for complete clarity on India's EV import duty policy before making a full-fledged launch, a Mint report states. Tesla has been repeatedly advocating for reduced import tariffs to position its vehicles more competitively in India.

Tesla's Q1 Earnings Take a Hit

During the first quarter of 2025, Tesla's net income dropped by 71% year-over-year to $409 million due to declining demand and geopolitical tensions globally. The result missed market consensus. Revenue was also down by 9% to $19.34 billion, less than the $21.11 billion estimate put together by LSEG. Tesla's January–March operating income came in at $399 million. Tesla has also withdrawn its previous 2025 financial guidance because of increasing uncertainty over trade policy and demand in the market.

Margins and Earnings Under Pressure

Adjusted earnings per share of 27 cents by Tesla fell short of analysts' estimates on average. Automotive gross margin, excluding regulatory credits, dropped to 12.5%, compared to 13.6% in the previous quarter, as computed by Reuters. So far in 2025, Tesla’s stock has dropped by 27%, trading at $276.22. Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for educational purposes. The views and recommendations mentioned are those of individual analysts or brokerage firms and do not reflect the opinions of The Daily Guardian. Readers are advised to consult certified financial advisors before making any investment decisions.

Nirmala Sitharaman to represent India at ADB Annual Meeting

May 4, 2025, 5:19 pm

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will head the Indian delegation at the 58th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Board of Governors. The event will take place in Milan, Italy, from May 4 to May 7.

She will be joined by officials from the Department of Economic Affairs under the Ministry of Finance. Delegates from ADB’s member countries, representatives of the Board of Governors, and various international financial bodies will also attend.

Key events and discussions

Sitharaman will actively participate in major sessions of the meeting. These include the Governors’ Business Session and the Governor’s Plenary Session. She will also speak as a panellist in the ADB Governors’ Seminar on “Cross-Border Collaboration for Future Resilience.”

Bilateral meetings and strategic talks

During her visit, the Finance Minister will hold bilateral talks with her counterparts from Italy, Japan, and Bhutan. She will also meet the President of the ADB, the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Governor of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

Engagement with diaspora and global leaders

Besides official meetings, Sitharaman will interact with members of the Indian community in Milan. She is also scheduled to engage with global think-tanks, CEOs, and business leaders. Additionally, she will take part in the NEXT Milan Forum at Bocconi University, where she will speak in a plenary session on “Balancing Economic and Climate Resilience.”

Waves Summit 2025 Highlights India’s Big Gaming Ambitions

May 3, 2025, 4:24 pm

The Waves Summit 2025, held in Mumbai, brought together India’s top minds in media and entertainment. The event focused on making India a global leader in the gaming industry. Creators, start-ups, tech leaders, and policymakers joined hands to discuss the future of Indian-made digital content.

‘Create in India Challenge’ Sparks New Ideas

One of the biggest highlights was the launch of the “Create in India Challenge.” The Indian government started this contest to inspire young developers to build original games based on Indian culture. Many of these developers studied at top engineering colleges like the IITs.

Roland Landers, CEO of the All India Gaming Federation, praised the initiative. He said, “I think 'Create in India' is about ideation and innovation. What we are seeing in the online skill gaming industry is a lot of both. Many founders are young engineers who have come up with truly innovative products.”

Zupee Sets an Example in Indian Gaming

The summit also spotlighted Zupee, one of India’s leading skill-based gaming platforms. The company became popular with games like Online Skill-Based Ludo. These games connect with Indian audiences through culture and tradition.

Ravi Shankar Jha, Director of Public Policy at Zupee, explained the company’s goal. He said, “Our mission has always been to bring culturally relevant games to the Indian mass audience. India has always been a land of games and stories, and we believe that with the right support, domestic developers can take Indian games to a global audience.”

Technology and Data Drive Gaming Innovation

The summit also showed how data is changing game development. Now, developers use data to improve graphics and create AI-based personalized content. These tools are helping deliver better experiences for users.

Gokul V Subramaniam, President of Intel India, spoke about this shift. He said, “Waves is an amazing opportunity because a lot of content creation involves audio and video, which is at the core of everything we do with data. Data is huge, and at Intel, we focus on several aspects of processors. Waves is bringing together the diverse range of data needed to make this possible.”

India Wants to Build Games for the World

India isn’t just focusing on local users. Industry leaders at the summit stressed the importance of exporting Indian games globally. They believe the country has the talent and resources to make this happen.

Ankit Kashyap, Chief Investment and Corporate Development Officer at M-LEAGUE, explained this global approach. He said, “Our thesis remains that we will create in India but build for the world. The idea is to leverage the talent and resources here to develop games that can be played globally. Games have the power to connect people, whether in Brazil, India, or the US.” He added that more government support could speed up progress.

Waves Summit Shows the Future of Indian Gaming

India’s gaming industry is growing fast. Events like Waves Summit 2025 help young developers, inspire innovation, and connect people. The summit clearly showed that India is ready to lead the global gaming space with homegrown talent and culturally rich content.

Nita Ambani Celebrates India’s Cultural Strength at WAVES 2025 | Watch

May 2, 2025, 3:53 pm

Reliance Foundation’s Founder and Chairperson, Nita Ambani, addressed a packed audience on day two of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai. Speaking on "Taking Indian Culture to the World," she highlighted India’s rich heritage and its youthful energy.

Blending Tradition with Youthful Energy

At the Jio World Convention Centre, Nita Ambani stressed how India harmoniously blends ancient wisdom with modern vibrancy.
"We are a country enriched by the wisdom of its civilisation, but equally energised by the throbbing energy of the world's youngest population," she said. She also pointed to India’s rising economic strength and growing global influence. "Our sacred traditions meet modern dynamism. Our economy, soon the third largest, fuels our soaring soft power."

Honouring India’s Ancient Roots

Nita Ambani praised India as the land where knowledge began. She reminded the audience that India is the birthplace of ‘OM’ and Sanskrit, a language that shaped many others. She said, “India is the origin of OM, the sound of the birth of our universe. It is the birthplace of zero, the beginning of the infinite, and the home of Sanskrit that gave the world language.” She also highlighted India’s achievements in yoga, Ayurveda, science, and the arts—from Aryabhatta’s astronomy to classical music and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1918193337489674249

A Timeless Civilisation Leading with Peace

Moving forward, Nita Ambani described India as a timeless civilisation that offers the world values of peace and unity. “We are a civilisation that gifted humanity the ideals of truth, non-violence, unity, and peace,” she said. She called India a beacon of wisdom, citing the Vedas, the Bhagavad Gita, and the teachings of Gautam Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi.

Applauding PM Modi’s Vision

Nita Ambani credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reviving India’s voice globally. She said, “For centuries, India shared its wisdom and soul with the world. Somewhere, our voice softened. But now it is rising again. We owe deep gratitude to PM Modi, whose vision and leadership have reignited India’s presence on the global stage.”

Celebrating Global Indian Icons

She praised Indians abroad who carry forward the country’s spirit. “Today, India's spirit is inspiring the world like never before,” she said.
Nita Ambani applauded icons such as musician Anoushka Shankar, sarod player Rishabh Sharma, chef Vikas Khanna, and actress Priyanka Chopra. She noted that even while living abroad, they keep Indian values close to their hearts.

WAVES 2025 Draws Global Attention

Prime Minister Modi inaugurated WAVES 2025 on Thursday. The summit has attracted participants from over 90 countries.
More than 10,000 delegates, 1,000 creators, 300+ companies, and 350+ startups are taking part. The event features 42 plenary sessions, 39 breakout sessions, and 32 masterclasses. Topics include broadcasting, infotainment, AVGC-XR, digital media, and films.

Sinclair CEO Praises India’s Media Growth at WAVES Summit 2025

May 2, 2025, 3:06 pm

Chris Ripley, President and CEO of Sinclair Inc., praised India's media and entertainment sector at the Waves Summit 2025 in Mumbai. He appreciated the Indian government’s efforts to promote international cooperation in this space.

"This is the first Waves Summit, and my hats off to the Indian Government and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting," said Ripley during a conversation with ANI. "They've opened up exciting opportunities for foreign investors and global media companies to collaborate, explore, and participate in India's dynamic creative economy."

Focus on Content and Collaboration

Ripley highlighted that Sinclair’s main goal in India is content distribution. The company also wants to work with local innovators like Prasar Bharati, IIT Bombay, IIT Kanpur, and Intel.

"We are rolling out devices capable of receiving and streaming video content without any additional processing, which we believe will be a game-changer," he explained.

Indian Stories Have Global Reach

Ripley stressed the global value of Indian culture and storytelling. He noted that India’s long history offers unique content for international audiences. "India has thousands of years of stories, culture, and history that can be adapted for global audiences using AI tools and emerging technologies," he said. "With advances in both distribution and production, these stories are now more achievable and impactful than ever before."

Waves Summit Brings Global Media Leaders Together

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Waves Summit 2025 on Thursday afternoon. This four-day event, held under the theme "Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries," aims to establish India as a global media and digital powerhouse.

The summit features leaders from media, entertainment, and technology industries. They are discussing innovations, investments, and international cooperation in digital content creation and distribution.

Unlocking a $50 Billion Opportunity

The Indian government sees the summit as a step toward building a $50 billion media and entertainment market by 2029. WAVES integrates various sectors like film, OTT, gaming, AI, AVGC-XR, broadcasting, and digital media.

Global Media Dialogue Hosted for the First Time

For the first time, India is hosting the Global Media Dialogue (GMD) with participation from ministers of 25 countries. This shows India's growing role in the global media scene.

Waves Bazaar Opens Global Market Access

The summit also launched the WAVES Bazaar, a digital marketplace with over 6,100 buyers, 5,200 sellers, and 2,100 projects. It aims to connect businesses across the world, creating strong networking and deal-making opportunities.

Wide Participation and Events

WAVES 2025 has attracted participation from over 90 countries. More than 10,000 delegates, 1,000 content creators, 300 companies, and 350 startups are part of the event. Attendees can participate in 42 plenary sessions, 39 breakout sessions, and 32 masterclasses, covering various areas such as broadcasting, infotainment, film, AVGC-XR, and digital media.

Google’s Gemini Could Be Coming to Apple iPhones—And That’s a Big Deal

May 2, 2025, 2:32 pm

Apple users might soon get to pick their AI assistant, and surprisingly, it might not be Siri. According to recent reports, Apple is in talks with Google to integrate its Gemini AI model into the iPhone experience—potentially giving users a choice between Apple’s own Siri and Google’s more advanced AI capabilities. What's more? The integration could happen as soon as the end of 2025, with both companies said to be in the final stages of negotiation. If it goes through, it would mark a major shift in Apple’s strategy, which until now has tightly controlled the software and services on its devices.

A Collaboration Between Tech Giants

According to a report in The Verge, Google might be nearing an agreement with Apple to bring its Gemini AI to the iPhone. The report adds that Google CEO Sundar Pichai revealed during the ongoing search monopoly trial on Wednesday that the deal is expected to be finalised by mid-2025, with a broader rollout likely by the end of the year. While Apple and Google are fierce rivals in many areas—think iOS vs Android, Safari vs Chrome—they’ve also had a history of quiet collaboration when it benefits both sides. For instance, Google reportedly pays billions each year to remain the default search engine on Apple’s Safari browser. But bringing Gemini, Google’s flagship generative AI model, to iPhones is another level entirely. As mentioned already, the news gained traction after Google CEO Sundar Pichai, while testifying under oath in a US antitrust case, revealed that Apple CEO Tim Cook had shown genuine interest in Google’s AI offerings. Pichai said that Cook “was trying to understand the Gemini capabilities” and that the two companies had been in active discussions.

What Does This Mean for iPhone Users?

If the deal materialises, iPhone users might soon be able to invoke Gemini directly—possibly as an option alongside Siri. That could mean better responses, more contextual understanding, and even features like summarising documents, writing emails, or answering complex queries with the kind of intelligence users currently expect from ChatGPT or Gemini on Android. In practical terms, imagine asking your iPhone: “Summarise today’s top news and schedule a meeting with my team at 3pm.” And getting a smooth, coherent response backed by Gemini’s AI engine—without needing to switch apps. It’s also likely that this will be offered as an opt-in feature, giving Apple the flexibility to keep Siri as the default for users who prefer it, while giving others the chance to tap into more powerful AI tools.

Amazon Great Summer Sale 2025: Sennheiser Offers Up to 58 Percent Discounts, Check Best Deals Here

April 30, 2025, 4:53 pm

Amazon Great Summer Sale kicks off on May 1
Sennheiser has announced various deals as part of the sale
Buyers in India can avail price cuts of up to 58%

Amazon's Great Summer Sale begins tomorrow (May 1) and various brands are offering some interesting deals for all users. As part of the sale, popular audio brand Sennheiser has also announced substantial discounts on its audio gear lineup. Starting May 1, buyers in India can avail price cuts of up to 58% on a variety of the brand’s premium products, including microphones, headphones, and wireless earbuds.

The sale covers several popular Sennheiser models, such as the MOMENTUM True Wireless 4, ACCENTUM Plus, HD 25 Plus, and the Profile Streaming Set USB Microphone. Alongside the discounted prices, customers can also benefit from no-cost EMI options for up to 24 months and bank-specific offers.

Key Deals on Offer

Among the highlighted products is the MOMENTUM 4 Copper Edition headphones, available during the sale at ₹18,900. These over-ear headphones are known for their long 60-hour battery life, adaptive noise cancellation, and premium audio performance. The ACCENTUM Plus headphones, designed for users who need long hours of use, will be selling for ₹11,740 and come with a 50-hour battery life and active noise cancellation features.

For professionals in content creation or music production, Sennheiser is offering the Profile Streaming Set (USB Microphone with Boom Arm) at ₹9,790. The mic features on-device controls for gain, mix, and volume, along with flexible mounting options and USB-C connectivity, making it a compact solution for podcasters and streamers.

The HD 25 Plus on-ear monitoring headphones, priced at ₹13,490, are targeted at DJs, cameramen, and studio professionals. Known for their durability and sound isolation, these headphones also come with additional accessories like coiled and straight cables, plus spare velour ear pads.

Vocalists and performers can look to the e 945 supercardioid dynamic microphone, which is being offered at ₹11,490. Its design minimises background noise and is built for durability, making it suitable for both live and studio settings.

Lastly, the MOMENTUM True Wireless 4 earbuds are available for ₹15,740. These come with advanced noise cancellation, premium sound output, and a total battery life of up to 30 hours with the charging case.

Sale Starts May 1

All deals go live on Amazon India from May 1 as part of the platform’s Summer Sale. Customers interested in high-quality audio equipment at lower prices may find the Sennheiser lineup worth exploring, particularly given the combination of discounts and payment flexibility.

No registration is required to access the offers, and stocks will likely be limited during the sale period.

Apple Scraps Anti-Reflective Display Coating for iPhone 17 Pro Models

April 30, 2025, 4:03 pm

Apple is expected to unveil the new iPhone in September
Reports suggest that Apple has canceled plans to introduce a new anti-reflective display coating for the new iPhones
The anti-reflective coating was initially rumoured by Weibo leaker Instant Digital

The first four months of 2025 are now over and that only means one thing in the tech world - only four more months until the new iPhone. Apple is likely to unveil the next generation of iPhones in September, like every year, and rumours about the upcoming phones have started surfacing. According to fresh reports, Apple has canceled plans to introduce a new anti-reflective, scratch-resistant display coating for the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max models. According to a source cited by MacRumors, the decision stems from difficulties in scaling up the coating process to meet mass production demands.

No Scratch Resistant Display for iPhone 17 Models?

The anti-reflective coating, initially rumoured by Weibo leaker Instant Digital, was designed to offer superior scratch resistance compared to Apple’s existing Ceramic Shield. However, the process of applying this coating reportedly proved too time-consuming for the large-scale manufacturing required for iPhone production. Despite being intended solely for the Pro models, the complexity and slow application process rendered it unfeasible for this year’s release.

Current Display Technologies and Future Possibilities

Presently, iPhones feature a fingerprint-resistant oleophobic coating but lack advanced anti-reflective technology. In contrast, Apple’s Mac and iPad Pro lines offer a nano-texture display option to reduce glare. While it’s unclear if Apple will adapt this nano-texture technology for future iPhone models, the company may explore alternative solutions or revisit the anti-reflective coating as manufacturing processes evolve.

On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that Apple's competitors like Samsung have already implemented advanced display technologies, such as the Gorilla Glass Armor used in the Galaxy S24 Ultra, which significantly reduces reflections and enhances screen durability.

As Apple continues to refine its manufacturing capabilities, it’s possible that enhanced display features like the anti-reflective coating could be introduced in future iPhone iterations. For now, consumers can expect the iPhone 17 Pro models to maintain the current display standards without the anticipated improvements in scratch resistance and glare reduction.

Why Is Bangladesh Running Out of Taka? The Hidden Currency Crisis Revealed | TDG Explainer

April 29, 2025, 6:02 pm

Bangladesh is struggling with a crippling economic crisis after a shortage of currency, prompted by a government move to reissue banknotes, hampers daily activity. The government, led by interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus, has suspended the circulation of existing notes featuring the face of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the architect of Bangladesh. This move has rendered banks short of cash to respond to demand from the public and has generated widespread anxiety among the public and the business community.

Why Bangladesh Is Running Short of Taka

The crisis arises at present due to the order issued by the caretaker government calling for all the banknotes featuring Mujibur Rahman to be scrapped and new issues printed with a different design. In December of last year, local press noted that the new notes were supposed to feature religious buildings, Bangladeshi heritage, and symbols of the July revolt—the protests which eventually resulted in the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It was universally taken as a decision aimed at defaming Rahman's legacy. Prothom Alo, a leading Bangladeshi daily newspaper, wrote that last month, the interim government ordered the central bank to stop printing existing currency featuring Rahman's image. The move has led to a serious currency shortage throughout the country.

Mint Capacity Falls Short, Causing Market Chaos

Ziauddin Ahmed, former managing director of Security Printing Corporation and executive director of Bangladesh Bank, was concerned about the move. Millions of banknotes carrying Bangabandhu's photo are still sitting in the vaults of different banks. The mint cannot cancel all the notes simultaneously and print new ones. For lessening the pain of the people, the printed notes should be let out into the market," he added. The scenario has resulted in about 15,000 crore taka value of printed but unreleased notes being trapped, increasing the liquidity crisis. To make matters worse, a large number of the old notes that are currently in circulation are damaged or nearly unusable. Earlier, new retail notes could be brought from the bank every week. That has stopped since last month. Most of the old notes that are being received from the bank are torn. If these notes are provided to the customers, they don't want to accept them," store manager Maqbul Hossain said.

Printing of New Notes Yet to Begin

Adding to the crisis is the lag in printing the new notes. The mint will only start the process in May, with the 20, 50, and 1,000 taka denominations, reports say. The low printing capacity of Bangladesh's Security Printing Corporation, which can print only three denominations at a time, adds to the delay. Bangabandhu's picture notes cannot be withdrawn abruptly. In this case, to minimize the people's suffering, the already printed notes should be circulated in the market. When new design notes enter the market, the old notes should be phased out gradually," said Ziauddin Ahmed. Bangladesh Bank data indicate a yearly requirement of 1.5 billion new notes of different denominations, whereas the existing capacity of the mint is 1.2 billion. During the 2023–24 fiscal year, only 1.05 billion new notes were produced—far short of the needed amount. Officials now believe it will take five to seven years to completely withdraw the old notes once new ones begin circulating.

Public Anger Mounts Over Torn, Dirty Notes

As banks and ATMs keep spewing out worn-out bills, public frustration is increasing. People are being compelled to use currency that is either barely readable or physically damaged. Shafiul Alam, a staff member at a private organisation, told Prothom Alo about his recent experience. Having bought a product of 420 taka, the vendor offered him change in different denominations. "Of them, one 200 taka note and two 20 taka notes were almost unusable," he stated. The vendor promised Alam to replace the worn-out currency next month, leaving him with no option in hand. The customers are also being affected. "I withdrew 20,000 taka from One Bank ATM. Among these, three 1,000 taka notes are nearly unusable. Now even if I attempt to exchange these notes, the banks refuse to accept them," said another victimized customer Ajmal Hossain.

Bangladesh in Financial Limbo

The inability to circulate fresh notes or even reissue old usable currency has resulted in general monetary instability in Bangladesh. Although the interim government's intentions may be to reconstitute national identity, the timing and manner have unleashed havoc in an already weak economy. Until new notes printing and circulation stabilize, Bangladeshis will continue to face financial hardships resulting from the currency shortage. Experts say that unless interim governments reverse the decision or put the held notes temporarily into circulation, the currency crisis may worsen, affecting trade, daily transactions, and public confidence in the banking system.

Gold Price Update: 24-Carat Gold Nears ₹9,800 Per Gram, Rates Rise Across Major Cities

April 29, 2025, 11:59 am

The price of gold continues to climb across India, with investors seeing it as a strong safeguard against inflation. On the current market, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹9,797 per gram, while 22-carat gold is at ₹8,980 per gram. For 18-carat gold, also referred to as 999 gold, the price stands at ₹7,348 per gram.

Gold has long been considered a safe asset, and as concerns about inflation and global uncertainty grow, it has become more attractive to investors. “Gold is becoming an increasingly important investment in the minds of investors,” experts say.

Let’s take a look at how gold prices changed today across major Indian cities:

Gold Price in Delhi

In Delhi, gold prices have increased across all purity levels:

18-carat gold is now selling at ₹7,360 per gram, up from ₹7,327 the previous day.
22-carat gold is available at ₹8,995 per gram today, compared to ₹8,955 yesterday.
24-carat gold has touched ₹9,812 per gram, rising from ₹9,768 yesterday.

Gold Price in Mumbai

Mumbai also saw a slight rise in gold rates:

22-carat gold is priced at ₹8,980 per gram, up from ₹8,940.
24-carat gold is currently ₹9,797 per gram, compared to ₹9,753 the day before.

Gold Price in Bangalore

The trend of rising prices continued in Bangalore:

18-carat gold is now at ₹7,348 per gram, higher than ₹7,315 yesterday.
22-carat gold has gone up to ₹8,980 per gram from ₹8,940.
24-carat gold reached ₹9,797 per gram, up from ₹9,753.

Gold Price in Chennai

Chennai experienced noticeable growth in 18-carat gold prices:

18-carat gold rose to ₹7,435 per gram from ₹7,405.
22-carat gold stayed consistent with other cities at ₹8,980 per gram, compared to ₹8,940 the day before.
24-carat gold is now ₹9,797 per gram, slightly up from ₹9,753.

Gold Price in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, gold prices saw one of the sharpest daily jumps:

18-carat gold is priced at ₹7,348 per gram, up from ₹7,315.
22-carat gold increased significantly to ₹8,980 per gram from ₹8,353.
24-carat gold jumped to ₹9,797 per gram, compared to ₹9,112 just a day ago.

Why Are Gold Prices Rising?

Gold’s steady rise is largely due to its role as a financial safety net. With economic pressures and inflation fears, many are turning to gold to preserve their wealth. Its value tends to hold up well when the value of currency falls, making it a preferred choice for long-term investment.

Rare ‘Golconda Blue’ Diamond Set for Christie’s Auction

April 28, 2025, 3:27 pm

A historic and rare Golconda vivid blue diamond, previously belonging to the Maharaja of Indore, Yeshwant Rao Holkar, will be sold at Christie's on May 14. The diamond is over 23 carats and will fetch between $35 million and $50 million, with sources suggesting it might become the largest fancy blue diamond ever sold publicly. The history of the diamond is traced to 1913 when Indore's ruler, Tukoji Rao Holkar III, purchased the well-known Indore Pear diamonds from French luxury jeweler Chaumet. A decade later, he asked Chaumet to mount the Golconda Blue in a bracelet. In 1933, Holkar appointed Parisian jewelry firm Mauboussin as official jeweler, prompting the production of a long flowing necklace featuring the Golconda Blue and the Indore Pears. New York jeweler Harry Winston bought the Indore Pears in 1946 and then cut them into 44.14 and 46.39 carats and incorporated them into his own collection. He added to his collection the Golconda Blue diamond when he acquired it in January of 1947 and mounted it in a brooch, combined with a 23-carat white diamond. Winston subsequently sold the brooch to the Maharaja of Baroda, prior to repurchasing and remanufacturing it as a new design item, ending the diamond's association with Indian royalty. Christie's has reported that the present owners of the diamond are the ones who decided to sell it within the family, and they are keen on going in for a sale. A Christie's representative said, "The historic provenance of the Golconda Blue, revealed through Christie's research, has created significant market interest and widespread excitement internationally." They also made it clear that the sale was a personal one and had nothing to do with financial considerations, like tariffs or the movement of the market.

Sensex Rises 1,000 Points, Nifty Crosses 24,300 Amid Market Recovery

April 28, 2025, 2:07 pm

Following losses in the last session, India's benchmark stock indexes bounced back sharply on Monday. Trading above 80,200, the BSE Sensex jumped over 1,000 points—approximately 1%. By 12:20 p.m., the Nifty50 had gained about 300 points, driving its value above 24,300.

Market capitalization skyrocked

Reaching Rs 424.46 lakh crore, the market capitalisation of all BSE listed firms climbed by an amazing Rs 2.9 lakh crore. All key indices were firmly in the green; the larger market also showed positive development.

Top Decliners and Rise Candidates

Among the best results in the Sensex group, Reliance Industries, MandM, SBI, and ICICI Bank experienced 1-2% rises. Conversely, firms including HCL Tech, Nestle India, Maruti Suzuki, Asian Paints, and UltraTech Cement saw falls.

Reliance's robust profits propel market growth.

Following better-than-expected fourth-quarter results, Reliance Industries showed up as the largest gainer. Strong growth in the company's digital and retail service sectors was credited with its good performance.

Performance by Sector: Robust Gains Across Almost All Indices

Apart from Nifty IT, every other sectoral indices registered increases. Particularly, indices for Nifty PSU Bank, Consumer Durables, Oil and Gas, and Private Banks all increased by more than 1%.

Anant Ambani Appointed Whole-Time Director at Reliance Industries

April 26, 2025, 12:00 pm

Reliance Industries Ltd announced on Friday that Anant Ambani, the youngest son of Chairman Mukesh Ambani, will soon take on a bigger role in the company. The board has approved his appointment as a whole-time director for five years, starting May 1, 2025. This decision came after a recommendation from the Human Resources, Nomination and Remuneration Committee. The appointment will still need shareholder approval, according to a filing with the stock exchange.

Shift from Non-Executive to Executive Role

Anant Ambani has already been involved with Reliance, serving as a non-executive director. With the new role, he will become more active in managing India’s most valuable company. Over the years, he has gained experience by serving on the boards of various Reliance businesses.

He has been on the board of Jio Platforms since March 2020 and Reliance Retail Ventures since May 2022. He also holds positions in Reliance New Energy and Reliance New Solar Energy since June. In addition, he became a board member of Reliance Foundation in September.

Educational Background and Personal Interests

Anant earned a bachelor’s degree from Brown University in the United States. Beyond his corporate duties, he has a deep interest in animal welfare. He supports efforts to rescue and care for animals, especially those in distress or at the end of their lives.

Siblings Also Hold Key Positions

Anant’s older brother and sister, Akash and Isha Ambani, are also involved in the business. Both serve as non-executive directors on Reliance’s board. Akash leads Reliance Jio Infocomm as its chairman, handling the group’s telecom and digital services. Isha plays a key executive role in Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd, the group’s retail arm.

Sensex Falls 1,000 Points, Nifty Dips Below 24,000 Amid rising India-Pakistan tension

April 25, 2025, 2:58 pm

Equity benchmark indices witnessed a sharp fall on Friday, with the BSE Sensex tumbling 1,004.04 points to 78,797.39 and the NSE Nifty plunging 338.1 points to 23,908.60 during late morning trade. The drop followed rising investor concerns over the escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan after the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

Axis Bank Leads Market Decline

Among the top losers on the Sensex, Axis Bank fell 4.50%, following the release of its March quarter results which showed a marginal drop in net profit to ₹7,117 crore from ₹7,130 crore year-on-year. Other significant laggards included Adani Ports, Bajaj Finserv, SBI, Power Grid, NTPC, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Bajaj Finance, and Tata Steel.

On the other hand, Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services managed to trade in the green, offering some relief to an otherwise bearish session.

Experts Cite Terror Attack, Global Sentiment Shift

Market analysts pointed to Tuesday’s terror attack in Pahalgam as a key reason behind the plunge. “The potential headwind looming large on the horizon is the uncertainty regarding India’s response to the terror attack and its consequences,” said VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

Tailwinds from FII Inflows and Global Confidence

Despite the day’s selloff, Vijayakumar also noted positive momentum from Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), who have pumped in ₹29,513 crore over the past week. He added, “A strong tailwind is the sustained FII buying... another tailwind is US Treasury Secretary Scot Bessent’s remark that ‘India is expected to strike the first bilateral trade deal with the US.’”

Mixed Global Cues

In contrast to India’s markets, other Asian indices like South Korea’s Kospi, Japan’s Nikkei 225, Shanghai’s SSE Composite, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng were trading positively. US markets had ended Thursday on a strong note, with the Nasdaq surging 2.74%, the S&P 500 gaining 2.03%, and the Dow Jones rising 1.23%.

Crude Prices Inch Up, FIIs Remain Bullish

Brent crude prices edged up 0.65% to $66.98 per barrel. On the domestic front, FIIs continued their buying streak, infusing ₹8,250.53 crore in Indian equities on Thursday.

Previous Session Recap

On Thursday, the Sensex had already shown signs of weakness, dropping 315.06 points to close at 79,801.43, while the Nifty slipped 82.25 points to settle at 24,246.70.

Why Did Sensex Crash Nearly 1,000 Points Today? ₹8 Lakh Crore Wiped Out

April 25, 2025, 1:54 pm

Indian stock markets witnessed a steep fall on Friday, with benchmark indices tumbling for a second straight session. The downturn followed fresh geopolitical concerns after a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir, which raised fears of rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

By 10:33 AM, the BSE Sensex had dropped 981 points, or 1.23%, to 78,819, while the NSE Nifty50 slipped 301 points, or 1.24%, to 23,948. This sharp drop came after both indices touched fresh intraday highs earlier in the session, with the Sensex briefly crossing the 80,000 mark and Nifty reaching beyond 24,350.

Investor wealth sees massive erosion

The overall market capitalisation of all companies listed on the BSE fell sharply by ₹8.5 lakh crore, bringing it down to ₹421.13 lakh crore. The slump was attributed to broad-based profit booking amid increased geopolitical risks.

“Markets have had a remarkable run, moving from a level of 22,000 to above 24,400 on the Nifty. After such a strong rally, a phase of profit booking was expected," said Kranthi Bathini, Director – Equity Strategy at WealthMills Securities Pvt Ltd. “Now, with heightened geopolitical risks, many investors are opting to book profits and shift to cash positions,” he added.

TCS, Infosys, IndusInd among few gainers

Despite the overall decline, a few stocks managed to stay in positive territory. TCS led with a 0.70% gain, followed by Infosys (0.67%) and IndusInd Bank (0.31%). HDFC Bank saw a minor rise of 0.08%, while ICICI Bank remained flat.

In contrast, Axis Bank recorded the steepest drop, falling by 4.28%. Other significant losers included Adani Ports (down 3.38%), Bajaj Finance (–2.61%), Bajaj Finserv (–2.49%), and Power Grid (–2.40%).

Broader markets and volatility reflect investor anxiety

Mid and small-cap stocks bore the brunt of Friday’s sell-off. The Nifty Midcap 100 index fell 2.85%, while the Smallcap 100 index plunged 3.30%. Market volatility surged, with the India VIX rising 6.46%, reflecting growing investor unease.

All major sectoral indices ended in the red. Nifty Media led the sectoral losses with a 3.54% drop, followed by Nifty PSU Bank (–2.87%) and Realty (–2.69%). Pharma and Healthcare sectors each declined over 2.4%. Other losers included Nifty Metal (–2.42%), Consumer Durables (–2.08%), Oil & Gas (–1.97%), and Auto (–1.88%). Even defensive sectors like FMCG, Financial Services, and IT faced pressure, with the Nifty IT index falling by 0.45%.

Geopolitical concerns weigh heavily

Dr. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services, pointed to rising uncertainty over India’s response to the Kashmir terror attack as a key concern. “The market is clearly on edge, waiting for clarity on the geopolitical front," he said.

Kranthi Bathini echoed a cautious outlook. “Due to the global uncertainty and escalating Indo-Pak tensions, investors should consider staying in cash unless they have a long-term investment horizon. Buying on dips may still be a viable strategy for those with patience," he noted.

Global cues remain mixed but optimistic

Asian markets traded mostly higher, with optimism surrounding the White House’s softened stance on China. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 0.9%, while China’s Shanghai Composite and CSI300 also posted modest gains. The positive sentiment followed strong earnings from Google parent Alphabet, whose stock surged nearly 5% in after-hours trading, boosting U.S. tech peers and lifting S&P 500 futures by 0.5%.

The S&P 500 closed Thursday’s session with a solid 2% gain, supported by tech-led momentum.

Foreign investors continue buying spree

Despite domestic concerns, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) remained net buyers in Indian equities for the seventh consecutive session. On Thursday, FPIs invested ₹8,251 crore (around $968 million), showing continued confidence in India’s long-term growth story.

Crude oil prices inch up but head for weekly losses

In global commodities, crude oil prices edged higher in early Friday trade but were poised for weekly declines. Brent crude rose 5 cents to $66.60 per barrel, while U.S. WTI crude added 6 cents to reach $62.85. Analysts cited ongoing talks about an OPEC+ output hike and a potential ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict as weighing on demand expectations.

Rupee gains against the dollar

The Indian rupee strengthened by 18 paise, trading at 85.15 against the U.S. dollar in early deals. Meanwhile, the dollar index climbed 0.47% to 99.84, signaling a renewed upward momentum in the greenback against major global currencies.

75 Ola Electric Showrooms Shut in Maharashtra Over Missing Trade Papers, Here Is All That Happened

April 23, 2025, 4:06 pm

In various towns of Maharashtra, customers visiting Ola Electric experience centres were met with locked doors this week. This happened as the state’s transport department shut down 75 of its showrooms for not having proper trade certificates — a crucial regulatory requirement for operating vehicle dealerships. According to NDTV Profit, the issue came to light after a directive from Maharashtra’s Joint Transport Commissioner, who called for immediate closure of any Ola Electric outlet running without the necessary documents. The directive, issued via email on April 16, left regional transport offices (RTOs) with just one day to carry out inspections and report back.

Why were Ola Electric stores shut?

On 16 April, Maharashtra’s joint transport commissioner issued a directive to regional transport offices (RTOs), noting that 121 out of 146 inspected Ola Electric “experience centres” lacked valid trade certificates under the Motor Vehicles Act. Trade certificates are mandatory for selling or showcasing vehicles in India. Without them, a dealership is technically unauthorised to conduct business. Inspectors were instructed to shut down any showroom or service centre found operating without this mandatory permit and to cancel original certificates if they were being misused or shared among multiple locations. Within 24 hours, 75 of Ola Electric outlets were closed, and their access to the state’s vehicle-registration system was disabled.

More than just locking showrooms

The enforcement drive did more than lock showroom doors: 192 electric scooters were also seized during raids in early March and April, as RTO officials combed through Bengaluru-based Ola’s retail network. Authorities in key cities such as Mumbai and Pune discovered that some “experience centres” were sharing trade certificates or operating entirely without them. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik warned that any further non-compliance would invite stricter penalties, heightening uncertainty for dealers and customers alike.

What does Ola Electric say?

The NDTV Profit report adds that Ola Electric has defended its record, calling the allegations “speculative, incorrect and misplaced,” and insists it is actively applying for trade certificates across all Maharashtra locations. The company’s representatives also say that they are working closely with RTOs to resolve queries and restore operations promptly. "Your claims regarding our stores in Maharashtra are speculative, incorrect, and misplaced,” the company spokesperson said as per the NDTV Profit report and added, "We continue to work closely with the concerned authorities in Maharashtra to address any specific queries or concerns."

Intel Might Lay Off 20 Percent of its Employees This Week, Thousands of Workers To Be Affected

April 23, 2025, 3:18 pm

Intel plans to cut 20% of its workforce under new CEO Lip-Bu Tan
The job cuts aim to “eliminate bureaucracy”
This mirrors Meta’s 2023 “Year of Efficiency,” when it cut 13% of staff and flattened management

Intel is reportedly gearing up for another round of layoffs and it could be happening as soon as this week. A new report from Bloomberg says that 20 percent of the company’s employees could be impacted by this round of impending layoffs. If that happens, thousands of people could lose their jobs. Until last year, the company had around 1,08,900 employees.

Fresh job cuts at Intel?

Intel is said to be going through a significant shake-up under its new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, who stepped into the role in March 2025. The reported job cuts, as per Bloomberg, are part of a broader plan to simplify leadership structures and bring the focus back to an engineering-first mindset. A source told Bloomberg that the job cuts were happening to “eliminate bureaucracy,” which refers to reducing complicated rules, procedures, or layers of approval so that work gets done faster.

In other words, eliminating bureaucracy refers to simplifying things so that work can get done faster and more easily, without too many formalities, paperwork, or having to go through multiple levels of management.

It is to be noted that Intel hasn’t yet confirmed the move publicly which is why this information should be taken with a pinch of salt. Meanwhile, the chipmaker has been facing mounting pressure from rivals like AMD and Nvidia, which have quickly adapted to the changing needs of the market.

Industry-Wide Trend Towards Efficiency

Intel isn’t the first company focusing on getting things done faster. Mark Zuckerberg echoed a similar sentiment in 2023, by calling it the "Year of Efficiency”. Meta's strategy involved cutting approximately 13% of its workforce and flattening its organisational structure by reducing layers of middle management. This initiative aimed to lead to a more agile and responsive corporate environment, enabling faster decision-making and improved productivity. Zuckerberg had talked about the importance of eliminating redundant managerial roles to streamline operations and focus on high-priority projects. The restructuring efforts at Meta were part of a larger shift towards prioritising efficiency and innovation in response to economic pressures and the need for technological advancement.

Markets Rejoice as Trump Declares No Plan to Fire Fed Chief Jerome Powell

April 23, 2025, 12:42 pm

Trump firing Jereme Powell news spurred a strong recovery in world markets following President Donald Trump's declaration that he has "no intention" of dismissing Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. The President spoke amid days of public denunciation leveled at Powell over his refusal to cut interest rates. Easing tensions between the White House and the Federal Reserve calmed Wall Street, and US equity futures gained close to 2%. Indian markets also opened higher on Wednesday following hopes of an India-US trade agreement, foreign investment, and macroeconomic stability. The article analyzes Trump's latest comments, reactions from markets, the importance of central bank independence, and why investor confidence depends on Fed leadership.

BREAKING: Trump says he has “no intention” of firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell. He says he never had any intention. His veiled threats and bullying of the Fed Chair have sent stocks plummeting in recent days. This is not stable leadership. pic.twitter.com/3AUbF3kKLj
— Trump’s Lies (Commentary) (@MAGALieTracker) April 22, 2025

Trump Steps Back From the Edge

President Donald Trump told reporters on Tuesday evening, "I have no intention of firing him," speaking of Jerome Powell. He continued, "I just want him to be more active in lowering interest rates." This was a definite retraction from his previous comments, where he had labeled Powell "a major loser" and even suggested that removing him "cannot come fast enough." Trump's new comments followed a turbulent Easter weekend during which he constantly attributed economic slowdown to Powell. His verbal darts had sent shivers down investors' spines, leading to a sell-off in stocks, US Treasury bonds, and the dollar on Monday.

Markets Welcome the U-Turn

Markets responded promptly and positively to Trump's mollified tone. US equity futures jumped nearly 2% on Tuesday night. Investors interpreted the comments as a sign of near-term stability in US monetary policy. In India too, hope prevailed. The BSE Sensex surged 468.75 points, or 0.59%, to 80,064.34. The NSE Nifty increased 136.25 points, or 0.56%, to 24,303.50. In the first hour of trading, 1,694 stocks were higher, 459 were down, and 131 were flat. This was interpreted by global and Indian investors as a positive sign that the US central bank could now function free of political influence—at least in the short run.

Trump's War of Words With Powell

This is not the first confrontation Trump has had with the Fed Chair he appointed. Trump has long accused Powell of failing to cut rates aggressively enough. According to him, rate cuts would propel faster economic growth and advantage the US in the context of trade war and global slowdowns. But central bank independence is a pillar of contemporary finance. Markets dread any political interference in the direct sense. It introduces the danger that economic policy is being set to meet short-term political objectives rather than long-term stability. Trump's frequent public criticism raised concerns he would override or hamstring the Fed's powers.

Fed Independence: Cornerstone of Stability

The Federal Reserve needs to be independent to retain credibility. It controls inflation, promotes maximum employment, and stabilizes the financial markets. Political leaders putting pressure on the Fed destroys trust in these functions. Trump's previous threats unsettled investors. Markets despise uncertainty. The potential of Powell getting fired—or intimidated—spread mayhem through equities, bonds, and currencies. That is why a mere assurance from Trump changed investor mood.

Indian Markets Ride the Global Wave

Indian shares also received a boost from Trump's remarks. Local factors provided additional fuel, however. Expectations of a trade deal between India and the US, stable foreign institutional investments (FIIs), and macroeconomic resilience signals all improved investor sentiment. The combination of global relief and homegrown strength generated a strong rally. For Indian investors and traders, the Fed's stability indirectly guarantees their access to global capital flows, commodity prices, and exchange rates.

Politics and Monetary Policy Don't Mix

The underlying danger here is the long-term possibility of politicizing central banks. Trump's salvo against Powell illustrates how monetary policy is now no longer fair game in politics. This creates a perilous precedent. If world leaders continue to weaponize interest rates, market confidence will be irretrievably brittle. Investors now respond not only to interest rate actions—but to tweets, spontaneous comments, and political temperature. This cannot last. Nations must insulate economic institutions from political storms. Otherwise, confidence is lost, and volatility is the new norm.

Temporary Calm or Structural Shift?

For the moment, markets have let out a collective sigh of relief. Trump's assurance provides a temporary respite from the drama. But this episode leaves a lasting lesson. Markets require institutional stability. Political leaders need to respect that, or risk precipitating financial instability. In the future, any hints of renewed tensions between Trump and Powell can precipitate fresh turbulence. For investors, monitoring both monetary policy and political rhetoric is now a necessity.

Gold Just Crossed ₹1 Lakh per 10 Grams — Here’s Why Investors Are Rushing to Buy

April 22, 2025, 11:28 am

Gold prices in India have risen above the record ₹1 lakh level per 10 grams, as uncertainty in the world markets keeps fueling a rise in the yellow metal. The price of 24-carat gold is now above ₹10,000 per gram in all major Indian metropolises, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. As per goodreturns.com, 24-carat is priced at ₹10,150 per gram in Delhi and surrounding cities such as Gurugram and Noida. In other metros such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata, the price is slightly lower at ₹10,135 per gram. For 22-carat gold, which is widely used in jewellery, the price is around ₹9,305 per gram in Delhi and ₹9,290 in other cities. The following are the current 24-carat gold prices per gram: Delhi: ₹10,150 Noida: ₹10,135 Gurugram: ₹10,135 Mumbai: ₹10,135 Chennai: ₹10,135 Bengaluru: ₹10,135 Kolkata: ₹10,135

Global Factors Drive Gold Rally

The rally in gold prices is due primarily to a mounting feeling of insecurity in global financial markets. In the US, gold futures rose 1.7% and ended at $3,482.40 on Monday night. The upsurge occurred following President Donald Trump's blistering attack on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. "Tariff concerns and the tensions between Trump and the Fed boss have seen investors seeking safer havens, because of which gold has been able to take advantage of a softening dollar," said Tim Waterer, head of market analysis at KCM Trade. Trump has urged cuts in interest rates, in contrast to Powell's move to keep rates at existing levels until more transparency on the effects of tariffs is known. "The President has threatened that the US economy may slow if rates are not lowered," Waterer said.

Cultural and Financial Importance in India

Gold's worth in India goes beyond being monetary. It forms a central part of festivals, weddings, and individual investment. As a hedge against inflation and economic crises, gold is a reliable asset that Indian families have faith in. While global turbulence continues to shake markets, the yellow metal will continue to drive its ascent, particularly with investors looking for financial security in turbulent times.

China Issues Strong Warning Amid Trump’s Global Tariff Negotiations

April 21, 2025, 12:19 pm

China has warned other countries not to give in to U.S. pressure in trade talks. The warning came after reports that Washington is pushing countries to limit trade with China in exchange for tariff exemptions.

A Chinese Commerce Ministry spokesperson responded to the reports. The official said, “Appeasement cannot bring peace, and compromise cannot earn one respect.” They added, “China firmly opposes any party reaching a deal at the expense of China's interests. If this happens, China will never accept it and will resolutely take countermeasures.”

U.S. Begins Trade Talks with Allies

The Trump administration has started trade talks with several partners. Japan sent a delegation to Washington last week. South Korea plans to start its talks soon.

Since January, President Donald Trump has imposed high tariffs on Chinese goods. Other countries also faced new import taxes.

China Repeats Its Stand

China’s message reflects a recent editorial in the state-run China Daily. The article warned the European Union not to "appease" the U.S. by cutting deals that harm China.

Reports suggest the U.S. wants countries to block Chinese trade to get tariff relief. The BBC contacted the U.S. Treasury and Trade Representative for a response, but they have not replied.

Countries Caught in the Middle

Trump said more than 70 countries have approached the U.S. for talks since the tariffs began.

Jesper Koll from Monex Group explained Japan’s position. He said, “If you put the numbers on it, about 20% of Japan's profitability comes from the United States, about 15% comes from the People's Republic of China.” He added, “Certainly, Japan doesn't want to [have to] choose between America and the People's Republic of China.”

Japan’s trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa already met Trump in Washington. South Korea’s acting president, Han Duck-soo, confirmed talks will begin this week.

India Also Faces Pressure

U.S. Vice President JD Vance is visiting India this week. He will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India faces a 26% tariff if it does not reach a trade deal with the U.S.

Trump Defends His Tariff Policy

Trump says his import taxes will boost U.S. manufacturing. He believes they will make people buy American-made goods and bring in more tax money. He also expects new investments in the U.S.

But critics disagree. They say moving factories back to the U.S. is hard. It could take years. In the meantime, the economy may suffer.

Trump Changes Course Under Pressure

Trump has already reversed some tariff decisions. Earlier this month, he paused new tariffs for 90 days for most countries—except China. He acted after protests from politicians and market experts.

Right now, some Chinese goods face U.S. tariffs as high as 145%. When combined with earlier levies, the total could reach 245%. Other countries face a 10% blanket tariff until July.

China Strikes Back

China has hit U.S. products with up to 125% in taxes. It has also vowed to “fight to the end.” This trade war between the world’s two biggest economies has shaken global markets.

Robert Kiyosaki Warns of Potential ‘Greater Depression’ and Urges Financial Action

April 20, 2025, 12:45 pm

Robert Kiyosaki, the financial expert and author of the well-known book Rich Dad Poor Dad, recently shared his concerns about the U.S. economy, predicting a looming "Greater Depression." He pointed out several alarming trends, including record-high credit card debt, escalating national debt, rising unemployment, struggling 401(k) plans, and compromised pensions.

Despite having warned about an impending financial crisis in his previous books such as Rich Dad’s Prophecy, Fake, Who Stole My Pension?, and Rich Dad Poor Dad, Kiyosaki noted that many people ignored his advice. However, he emphasized that those who listened to him are now in a much better position.

Kiyosaki's Advice: Gold, Silver, and Bitcoin

Kiyosaki strongly encouraged people to take action, repeating his long-standing advice to invest in gold, silver, and Bitcoin. While some of his followers have criticized him for frequently repeating this recommendation, he remains firm in his belief that these assets can offer significant wealth in the face of an economic downturn. According to Kiyosaki, those who invest in these resources today may see substantial returns when the financial crisis deepens.

https://twitter.com/theRealKiyosaki/status/1913366747010531408

He also took the opportunity to criticize the mindset of individuals who often say things like “I can’t afford it” or “I will wait,” claiming that this negative thinking leads to negative outcomes. Drawing inspiration from his Sunday School lessons, he referenced the phrase, “And the word became flesh,” meaning that one's words and thoughts shape their reality.

Looking to the Future: Predictions for 2035

Kiyosaki is optimistic about the future value of these assets. He predicts that by 2035, Bitcoin could be worth over $1 million, gold might reach $30,000 per ounce, and silver could soar to $3,000 per coin. He described this period as an extraordinary chance for individuals to gain financial freedom, urging them not to let fear prevent them from seizing this opportunity.

Final Words: Plan, Learn, and Act

In conclusion, Kiyosaki urged everyone to educate themselves, create a financial plan, and take decisive action to navigate the looming economic challenges. He believes that proactive steps now could significantly improve one’s financial situation in the coming years.

BluSmart Suspends Services Following SEBI’s ₹978 Crore Loan Fraud Action

April 17, 2025, 1:50 pm

India's electric cab-hailing platform BluSmart has unexpectedly halted its operations in key cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. The abrupt disruption comes following a Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) ban on the firm's promoters Anmol Singh Jaggi and Puneet Singh Jaggi in the high-profile Gensol Engineering Limited parent firm loan fraud case. Thousands of BluSmart users were left confused and frustrated as the company abruptly stopped accepting ride bookings. The halt comes as the fallout from the SEBI’s interim order spreads, raising uncertainty about the future of the once-promising green mobility startup. According to the Economic Times, BluSmart is now exploring an exit from its core ride-hailing business. The publication cited sources claiming that shareholders have approved a proposal to shift its electric fleet to Uber in the coming weeks, effectively transitioning from a direct service provider to a fleet partner.

SEBI’s Fraud Findings: A Piggy Bank for Promoters

SEBI probe found apparent money misappropriation by Jaggi brothers, co-founders of Gensol Engineering. The market regulator added that the promoters used the company as a "piggy bank," sending funds for business use to individual extravagance and real estate. Anmol and Puneet Singh Jaggi, BluSmart co-founders, resigned immediately after the SEBI restriction. The resignation prompted the sudden halt in BluSmart services.

The Birth of BluSmart and Gensol

The Jaggi brothers founded Gensol Engineering in 2007 as an EPC engineering, procurement, and construction company. In 2018, Anmol Jaggi partnered with Punit Goyal to start BluSmart — known at the time as Gensol Mobility Pvt — that specialized exclusively in electric vehicle mobility. It was renamed BluSmart in 2019, with Gensol venturing into EV leasing. BluSmart expanded steadily, standing apart from traditional cab operators with its entirely electric fleet and emphasis on green travel. It had over 8,500 EVs and 5,800 charging points distributed across 50 hubs in Delhi NCR and Bengaluru by early 2025. BluSmart also had over 10,000 active driver partners working for it. BluSmart positioned itself as India's biggest zero-emission ride-hailing service, with more than 1.45 crore rides accomplished. It even went global by introducing a luxury electric limo service in the UAE in June 2024.

The Gensol-Governance Crisis

Trouble started when SEBI got a complaint in June 2024 against Gensol for price rigging and misusing loan proceeds. The company led by Jaggi had taken ₹978 crore from public lenders such as the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) and Power Finance Corporation (PFC) between 2021 and 2024. ₹664 crore of this was earmarked for buying 6,400 EVs for BluSmart — but only 4,704 cars were purchased. SEBI pointed out that Gensol was required to infuse the remaining 20% of the equity, so the total expense would be ₹829.86 crore. Nevertheless, approximately ₹262.13 crore is yet to be explained. Investigations indicate that these amounts were channelled through connected firms for personal luxury. A single transaction accounted for ₹42.94 crore to DLF as payment for a luxury flat in Gurugram's Camellias project. Other dubious spending included a ₹26 lakh golf set, costly leisure travel, credit card expenses, and high-value transfers to relatives. SEBI also discovered that Anmol Singh Jaggi supposedly transferred ₹6.20 crore to his mom Jasminder Kaur and ₹2.98 crore to his wife Mugdha Kaur Jaggi. Puneet Singh Jaggi supposedly transferred ₹1.13 crore to his wife, Shalmali Kaur Jaggi, and ₹87.52 lakh to his mom.

Credit Ratings Downgraded

In March 2025, rating agencies ICRA and CARE downgraded Gensol’s credit rating to junk due to significant delays in debt servicing. This added pressure on the firm’s liquidity and raised concerns among its investors and partners. The SEBI restriction not only excludes the Jaggi brothers from entry into the securities market but also freezes their positions in Gensol. SEBI has also directed a forensic audit to look into financial mismanagement in-depth. SEBI has also put on hold the proposed stock split by Gensol. Independent director Arun Menon of Gensol resigned forthwith following the SEBI action. In his resignation letter to Anmol Singh Jaggi, Menon stated, "I would like to recall you to last year, July/August 2024, when I had attempted to contact you to obtain clarity on the company's debt position and had also proposed a debt restructuring option to lower the cost of interest. Although you had indicated via message that you would call back, it never materialized."

Employee Agitation and Delay in Salaries

With the deepening of the financial crisis, BluSmart workers are increasingly in the dark. Some have reported delay in their March salaries. In an in-house email, Anmol Singh Jaggi gave the reason for the delay as "cash flow constraints." "Owing to existing cash flow constraints, there will be a slight delay in salary processing. But rest assured that all dues will be settled within April itself," Jaggi said.

What Lies Ahead for BluSmart?

The once-promising green mobility venture is now at a crossroads. Transitioning to a fleet partner for Uber might be the only viable route to stay afloat. However, the damage to its brand, employee morale, and investor confidence could take years to repair. With SEBI’s inquiry still ongoing and the future of Gensol uncertain, BluSmart’s operations — and its vision for sustainable transport — remain in limbo

Trump Blames China for Boeing Deal Fallout, Demands Action on Trade

April 16, 2025, 10:54 am

US President Donald Trump has said that it’s now up to China to decide whether to move forward with a trade agreement. His comments came after he criticized Beijing for backing out of a key Boeing deal.

Trump Criticizes China Over Boeing Deal

At a Tuesday press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt read Trump’s statement: “The ball is in China’s court. China needs to make a deal with us. We don’t have to make a deal with them.”
Trump accused China of failing to follow through on a major purchase, saying they bought only part of what they had committed to. He added that China had “zero respect” for the previous administration under Joe Biden.

US-China Tariff Tensions Continue

Trade tensions between the two countries have been escalating, with both sides increasing tariffs in quick response to each other’s moves. These actions have caused uncertainty in global stock markets. Investors are now urging both countries to reduce tensions to prevent further economic fallout.

China Reports Growth Amid Tariff Pressure

Despite the growing pressure, China announced a 5.4% growth in its economy for the first quarter. Officials said the strong numbers were due to exporters hurrying to ship goods before US tariffs were enforced.
Sheng Laiyun, a senior official from China’s National Bureau of Statistics, admitted, “The US tariffs will put certain pressures on our country’s foreign trade and economy.”

China Appoints New Trade Negotiator

In the middle of this trade conflict, China has appointed a new trade representative. Li Chenggang will take over from Wang Shouwen in the Ministry of Commerce.
Li, 58, has years of experience in international trade talks. He helped negotiate a 2020 trade agreement with the US and served as China’s ambassador to the World Trade Organization in 2021. He holds degrees in law from Peking University and in law and economics from the University of Hamburg.

Trump Pushes Tariffs

Since the beginning of the year, Trump has implemented heavy tariffs on Chinese imports. He also introduced a 10% baseline tariff on products from several US trading partners.

KFC Launches Fried Chicken Toothpaste, Sells Out in 48 Hours

April 15, 2025, 5:33 pm

KFC has partnered with Australian dental care brand Hismile. To roll out an astounding. Yet iconic item. A limited-release. $13 fried chicken-flavored toothpaste. Released only on the Hismile website, the product is now available in only the US market.

April Fools’ Day Launch and Public Reaction on New Product of KFC

Made public on April 1, the strange product first raised eyebrows online, with people believing it was an April Fools' prank. But KFC later validated that the partnership with Hismile indeed existed.

In a post on Instagram, KFC’s official handle wrote, “Not a prank. It’s here. And it’s Finger Lickin’ Good,” referencing the brand’s signature tagline.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by KFC (@kfc)

Flavour Inspiration and Product Details

Inspired by KFC’s famous blend of 11 herbs and spices, the toothpaste was designed to deliver “the irresistible feeling of biting into a piece of hot, juicy Original Recipe chicken” while still promising a fresh, clean mouth. Though the flavour may seem unconventional, the toothpaste is fluoride-free and marketed as offering “long-lasting health benefits.”

Along with the toothpaste, KFC also released a $59 KFC-branded electric toothbrush. With three modes of cleaning and a timer, it was touted as "the perfect combination of fun and functionality for the biggest smile," in the press release.

The funky-flavoured toothpaste was only available on Hismile's website until it sold out in a flash. KFC enthusiasts had only 48 hours to grab the product before it vanished from stores.

Positive Reception and Company Statements Of KFC

As the figures indicate, KFC's surprise offering was a huge hit.

“This has been one of our most successful limited-run collaborations to date,” said Koban Jones, marketing manager at Hismile, in a statement to Fox News Digital.

Chris Jones, General Manager of KFC, added, “We love pushing boundaries, and what better way to do that than by bringing KFC’s legendary flavours into an everyday essential? This collab is bold, unexpected, and seriously fun.”

Tax Day 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Filing Deadlines

April 15, 2025, 3:26 pm

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) expects almost 140 million Americans to file their federal income tax returns for the 2024 tax year by the customary deadline of Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Through April 4, the agency had processed more than 101 million returns, reflecting a smooth rate of filings.

Tax Filing Deadline: April 15, 2025

For most taxpayers, the filing deadline for federal income tax returns is April 15, 2025. If April 15 is a weekend or legal holiday, the date is pushed to the next business day. It is very important that taxpayers file on time in order to escape penalties and interest.

Automatic Extensions for Disaster-Affected Areas

Taxpayers in federally proclaimed disaster areas have been provided with automatic extensions on filing and payment of their 2024 tax. For example, taxpayers from states such as Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee, and certain portions of Virginia, have until May 1, 2025, to both file and make payments. Kentucky residents have a deadline of November 3, 2025, due to the magnitude of the disaster.

How to Ask for a Filing Extension

Taxpayers who require additional time to file may apply for an extension by filing Form 4868 on or before April 15. The extension provides six extra months to file, advancing the deadline to October 15, 2025. This extension is for the filing deadline only and not for the payment deadline. Taxes due are still required to be paid by April 15 in order to prevent penalties and interest.

Tips for Filing Your Taxes

File Electronically: Utilizing e-filing procedures can help speed up processing of your return and refund.
Consider Direct Deposit: Taking direct deposit can accelerate the processing of any refunds.
Seek Help if Needed: If you're not confident about your tax status, try consulting a tax professional to make sure everything is accurate and optimizes potential refunds.

Indian Stock Market Surge Over 2% as Auto Sector Leads

April 15, 2025, 11:33 am

Indian stock markets rallied more than 2% on Tuesday, following gains in Asian counterparts and a sharp rally in automobile stocks. The steep rise came after US President Donald Trump's suggestion of rolling back earlier levied car import tariffs. This suggestion fueled global hopes, particularly in the automobile industry. The Nifty rose by 455.90 points to 23,284.45, while the Sensex rose 1,578.84 points to close at 76,736.09. Auto stocks were the best performers with Tata Motors and Maruti Suzuki recording healthy gains. Trump's erratic trade policy still spooked investors. The US Federal Reserve calmed investors, by signaling possible rate cuts.

Nifty, Sensex Post Strong Gains

Major Indian stock market indexes surged strongly. Nifty rose by 455.90 points, or nearly 2%, to 23,284.45. Sensex surged by 1,578.84 points, or 2.10%, and closed at 76,736.09. The advance was indicative of wider upbeat sentiment based on overseas cues and auto sector strength.

Asian markets also in green

Asian markets were strong following a volatile week. Japan's Nikkei 225 increased 0.89%. Singapore's Straits Times increased 1.4%. Hong Kong's Hang Seng inched up 0.08%. South Korea's KOSPI increased 0.7%, and Jakarta Composite increased 1.5%. Sydney, Taipei, Singapore, and Manila markets also traded higher.

Auto stocks lead the charge

Auto shares lifted market sentiment after Trump signaled potential support for the auto companies battered by his 25% tariff on car imports. Japan's Mazda and Toyota rose 5%, Nissan increased over 3%, and Hyundai increased over 4%. On the Nifty, the Auto index jumped 3.27% to 21,220.40, higher by 671.75 points. Tata Motors rose 4.85% to ₹623.90, and Maruti Suzuki increased 2.08% to ₹11,840.00.

Trade war fears remain

Even with the relief, Trump's erratic trade policy spooks investors. The US exempted smartphones, laptops, and semiconductors from fresh tariffs last week. But Trump hinted that the move could be temporary. Speculation about new tariffs on tech and pharma is keeping markets in check.

South Korea's chip boost adds to optimism

South Korea revealed a $4.9 billion initiative to develop its chip sector. The initiative pushed up Samsung and SK hynix shares, contributing to regional market euphoria. US Fed Governor Christopher Waller intervened to calm investor fears. He indicated that the Fed would be able to support rate cuts if necessary. If Trump reimposes tariffs from his April 2 "Liberation Day" action, the Fed stands ready to act to defend the economy.

Indian Markets Rally on Global Optimism and U.S. Trade Moves

April 15, 2025, 9:47 am

Indian stock indices opened sharply higher on Tuesday, driven by positive global sentiment and expectations of reduced trade tensions between the U.S. and China. The Nifty 50 index surged by 539.80 points or 2.36% to open at 23,368.35. Similarly, the BSE Sensex jumped 1,679.20 points or 2.23%, starting the day at 76,836.46. The rally was fueled by investor hopes after the U.S. signaled relief in trade tariffs.

U.S. Signals Temporary Tariff Relief

Recently, the U.S. government hinted at easing some trade restrictions. This includes temporary exemptions on tariffs for key electronics and semiconductors. These moves raised hopes of progress toward a broader deal with China. On Sunday, the U.S. Commerce Secretary confirmed the relief is temporary. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump posted that new tariffs on semiconductors might be announced next week.

Expert View on Market Sentiment

Market expert Ajay Bagga told ANI, "Indian Markets are determined to see the positives today. The worst of Trump Tariff Tantrums is perhaps over, at least for 90 days at the worst. Markets will look at earnings and management guidance for clarity through the Trump Policy Uncertainty. India stands out as a strong structural domestic story, and should attract some FPI flows once the Trump Policy is crystallised."

Global Markets React Positively

Global stock markets welcomed the developments. On Monday, major indices across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. ended higher. Notably, U.S. tech giants saw gains of more than 6% during pre-market trading.

Domestic Confidence Remains Strong

Even with tight liquidity in March, Indian investors maintained their confidence. SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) inflows into equity mutual funds crossed ₹25,000 crore, providing solid support to the markets.

FII and DII Activity

In the last trading session on April 11, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) sold shares worth ₹2,519 crore. In contrast, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) remained active buyers, investing ₹3,759 crore.

Corporate Earnings in Focus

Several Indian companies will announce their quarterly results today. These include:

ICICI Lombard General Insurance
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency
GM Breweries
MRP Agro
Hathway Bhawani Cabletel and Datacom
Delta Industrial Resources

Other Asian Markets Also Rise

Elsewhere in Asia, markets showed gains too. Taiwan’s weighted index climbed over 1.6%. South Korea’s KOSPI rose 0.79%, Japan’s Nikkei 225 advanced 0.88%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index inched up 0.07%. On Monday, the U.S. markets also closed in the green. The Dow Jones gained 0.78%, NASDAQ rose 0.64%, and the S&P 500 increased by 0.79%.

Investors Await Further U.S. Announcements

Looking ahead, market participants are closely watching for more statements from the U.S. government. Any new development could influence global trade outlook and steer future market direction.

Israeli Fintech Tapcheck Secures $225 Million to Expand On-Demand Pay Platform

April 15, 2025, 5:42 am

Tel Aviv [Israel]: Israeli fintech startup Tapcheck, known for its innovative on-demand pay platform, announced on Monday that it has raised $225 million in a mix of equity and debt financing. This includes a $25 million Series A extension led by existing backer PeakSpan Capital, and a $200 million credit facility from Victory Park Capital.

Vision Rooted in Real-Life Struggles

Founded in 2019 by husband-and-wife duo Ron and Kayling Gaver, Tapcheck was born out of a mission to address the stress and limitations caused by traditional bi-weekly or monthly pay cycles. The company allows employees to access their earned wages instantly, helping them avoid late fees, high-interest loans, and financial stress, without any cost to their employers.

“We’re tackling paycheck-to-paycheck stress and helping companies improve morale, retention, and productivity,” said Tapcheck’s co-founders.

Seamless Integration, Real Impact

Tapcheck’s system connects with nearly 300 payroll and timekeeping platforms, offering a smooth, accurate, and secure experience for both employers and employees. The platform has proven results:

Over 50% improvement in employee retention
70% of employees report reduced financial stress

Employers across 12,000+ locations are already using Tapcheck to support their workforce.

Over $1 Billion Disbursed in Early Wages

In just five years, Tapcheck has facilitated more than $1 billion in early wage funding, solidifying its position as a leader in the Earned Wage Access (EWA) sector. With this new funding, the company plans to enhance its tech infrastructure, expand services, and enter new markets, aiming to reshape how the world thinks about payroll.

Lodha Brothers Resolve Trademark Dispute Amicably Through Mediation

April 14, 2025, 4:29 pm

The Lodha brothers Abhishek Lodha and Abhinandan Lodha and their firms have resolved all pending disputes amicably under family mediation, a joint statement released by both sides stated on April 14.

Settlement Finalised Under Parental Supervision

The two brothers have 'amicably resolved all pending disputes 'under the supervision of their parents,' a joint statement released by both the sides stated on April 14.

The following has been agreed and established by the parties: Macrotech Developers Ltd. ("MDL") owns, and has the exclusive right to use, its associated brand names, the statement added.

Abhinandan owns, and has the exclusive right to use the brand name of his company ("HoABL"), it added.

Separate Brand Identities Established

'Lodha Group' and 'House of Abhinandan Lodha' are unrelated to one another. Both entities will publicize this, it stated. Abhinandan does not have rights or interests in Lodha Group or MDL or other ventures of Abhishek. Abhishek does not have rights or interests in HoABL or other ventures of Abhinandan, the release stated.

Gratitude to Mediators and Supporters

“Both Abhishek Lodha and Abhinandan Lodha express their heartfelt gratitude to Justice R.V. Raveendran (Retd.), whose guidance in the mediation process was invaluable. The family is grateful to the Hon’ble Justice Arif Doctor for encouraging them to follow the process of mediation. They also extend their sincere appreciation to all family elders and well-wishers who provided their counsel and support throughout the resolution process,” the statement added. On January 31, the Bombay High Court had also appointed a retired Supreme Court Justice R V Raveendran as mediator to hold talks, with a goal to resolve the matter within five weeks.

Background of the Dispute and Company Histories

The two real estate builders, Abhishek and Abhinandan, had been in the headlines after listed property company Macrotech Developers, also known as Lodha Group, run by Managing Director Abhishek, launched a ₹5,000-crore legal notice against his younger brother's company, the House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), alleging illegal use of the brand name.

The brothers, sons of BJP leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Mangal Prabhat, settled their split in 2015. That year, Abhishek continued under the wing of the family-run real estate group founded in the 1980s. The firm went public in April 2021.

LNG: Fuel Powering India’s AI Boom and US Strategic Ties

April 14, 2025, 11:41 am

India's increasing energy requirements are moving into a new era—one not just defined by industrial growth but also by the rapidly growing needs of data centers fueling AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure. With renewable energy still unreliable and coal-fired power under fire for its environmental footprint, liquefied natural gas (LNG) has come as a cleaner and more reliable bridge fuel. Against this backdrop, the India-US LNG alliance is moving at a brisk pace. Ranging from such large-scale infrastructural investments as Crown LNG's ₹9,000 crore Kakinada terminal to GAIL's search for stakes in American LNG, the two countries are harmonizing strategic and commercial interests. As LNG may possibly fuel India's future digital economy, incorporating AI-driven applications and hyperscale data centers, this transatlantic partnership is about more than mere energy—it's technological sovereignty, climate resilience, and economic security in the long term.

Crown LNG's offshore terminal

Crown LNG's future offshore terminal at Kakinada is more than another infrastructure project—it's a pioneering floating LNG import facility designed for India's unforgiving east coast waters. Scheduled to be operational by 2029, the ₹9,000 crore project will incorporate a gravity-based structure (GBS), rendering it specially cyclone- and monsoon-interference-proof. In contrast to traditional onshore terminals, this configuration reduces environmental interference and expedites construction schedules. The terminal will have the capacity to process 7.2 million tonnes of LNG per year and cater to high-demand areas in southern and eastern India. It also illustrates Crown LNG's wider vision of developing robust, modular energy infrastructure for developing economies, including LNG-to-power integration with gas-based power plants and industrial clusters.

AI data centers: New frontier for LNG

India is quickly evolving into an AI and cloud computing hub, with hyperscale data centers emerging in Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Chennai. Those centers demand continuously available, 24/7 power with minimal downtime—a requirement solar and wind cannot always fulfill. LNG provides a cleaner and more consistent alternative to diesel or coal-powered backup systems. Crown LNG CEO Swapan Kataria contends that powering specialized power units for AI data centers with LNG will upend India's digital ecosystem while accomplishing decarbonization objectives. The government's emphasis on "Digital India" and semiconductor self-sufficiency also fits this strategy, as LNG offers a scalable and stable energy foundation for innovation, R&D parks, and AI training centers.

Strengthening India-US energy relations

India and the US are using their increasing energy partnership to attain strategic and commercial objectives. GAIL's talks to buy a 26% stake in an American LNG project are an unequivocal indication of India's long-term bet on US gas. The deal will fetch India more than 1 million metric tons of LNG every year from 2029, which will diversify India's supply basket away from Qatar and Russia. It also draws on the Modi-Trump era energy cooperation model, which focused on increasing US energy exports to help cut its trade deficit with India. For Washington, it is not just an economic but a geopolitical opportunity—securing India more deeply in a Western-aligned energy system as a bulwark against China's increasing influence in the region.

Infrastructure and Policy

Though LNG imports are destined to increase, India's indigenous infrastructure has to accelerate as well. Though it has 20,000+ kilometers of natural gas pipelines, there are gaps—especially on the eastern and northeastern sides. Accelerating projects such as the Urja Ganga pipeline and tariff revisions to enhance affordability are fundamental actions. Further, policies need to facilitate simpler land acquisition for terminals as well as ensure private sector involvement in LNG bunkering, small-scale retail, and gas-based power plants. Government policies such as the National Gas Grid and Energy Security Strategy 2047 provide a template, but effective implementation will decide if LNG can really be India's energy bridge to an AI-driven future.

China Sees 4.5% Rise in US-Bound Exports Amid Trade War Pressure

April 14, 2025, 11:17 am

China sees export growth in March as trade war tensions with the US escalate. China’s exports rose sharply by 12.4% in March compared to the same month last year. Officials said companies hurried to ship goods before the US enforced higher tariffs under President Donald Trump’s trade policy. Meanwhile, imports dropped by 4.3%, according to data from China’s customs administration.

Quarterly Trade Figures Show Mixed Trends

Between January and March, exports increased by 5.8%, but imports fell by 7%. During this period, China recorded a trade surplus of $76.6 billion with the United States, including $27.6 billion in March alone.

US Tariffs Put Pressure on Chinese Goods

China now faces 145% tariffs on most goods shipped to the US after Trump’s latest trade revisions. Despite this, trade with the US hasn’t slowed entirely, though many companies rushed exports to avoid the worst tariff impacts.

While US-bound shipments slowed, China’s trade with Southeast Asia and Africa grew. In March, exports to Southeast Asian countries jumped nearly 17%, and exports to Africa rose more than 11%.

Xi Jinping Strengthens Regional Ties

President Xi Jinping started a regional trip on Monday, visiting Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. Although the tour had been scheduled earlier, it now carries more weight due to ongoing trade tensions with the US. Xi’s visit aims to reinforce trade partnerships with countries that may also face high US tariffs.

Trade With Vietnam Increases

Exports to Vietnam alone rose nearly 17% last month, while imports from Vietnam declined by 2.7%. This shift highlights the growing role of regional trade for China amid global uncertainty.

China Stays Confident Amid Challenges

Lyu Daliang, a spokesperson for China’s customs department, acknowledged the “complex and severe external situation.” However, he said, “the sky would not fall.” He pointed to China’s large domestic market and varied trade relationships as key strengths.

When asked about the drop in imports, Lyu emphasized that China has been the second-largest importer in the world for 16 years. He said China’s share of global imports rose from 8% to 10.5% during that time.

“At present and in the future, China’s import growth space is huge, and the large Chinese market is always a great opportunity for the world,” he said.

Zuckerberg’s Empire On Trial: FTC Targets Instagram And WhatsApp Deals

April 14, 2025, 10:03 am

The highly anticipated antitrust trial between the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Meta Platforms Inc. begins Monday, marking the peak of a nearly six-year legal battle that could reshape the future of the tech giant. The courtroom drama, unfolding in front of US District Judge James Boasberg, is expected to last seven to eight weeks, with both sides preparing to present exhaustive evidence and witness testimony.

Among the key figures expected to take the stand are Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, former COO Sheryl Sandberg, and Instagram head Adam Mosseri, according to NPR. The FTC is challenging Meta’s past acquisitions of Instagram (2012) and WhatsApp (2014), accusing the company of engaging in monopolistic practices aimed at eliminating competition.

FTC Accuses Meta of a “Buy or Bury” Strategy

The FTC argues that Meta pursued a deliberate strategy to "buy or bury" emerging rivals, stifling innovation and securing a dominant position in the social media landscape. In one 2012 internal email, Zuckerberg allegedly described the Instagram acquisition as a way to “neutralize a potential competitor.” The government claims this approach violates federal antitrust laws and is pushing for the separation of Instagram and WhatsApp from Meta’s corporate structure.

According to the BBC, the case has spanned multiple US administrations—initiated under Donald Trump, advanced under Joe Biden, and now heading to trial under the guidance of current FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson.

Zuckerberg Allegedly Lobbied Trump

In a separate twist reported by The Wall Street Journal, Zuckerberg allegedly lobbied then-President Trump to pressure the FTC into dropping the case—an allegation Meta has strongly denied. The relationship between the two soured after Trump was banned from Meta’s platforms following the January 6 Capitol riot.

Meta’s Defense: "This Lawsuit Defies Reality"

Meta has dismissed the FTC’s case as unfounded and out of touch with today’s competitive digital landscape. “The evidence at trial will show what every 17-year-old in the world knows: Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp compete with Chinese-owned TikTok, YouTube, X, iMessage and many others,” said Meta spokesperson Christopher Sgro.

“More than 10 years after the FTC reviewed and cleared our acquisitions, the Commission’s action in this case sends the message that no deal is ever truly final,” he added.

What’s at Stake?

The outcome of this trial could set a precedent for how tech companies are regulated in the United States. If the FTC prevails, it could result in Meta being forced to divest from Instagram and WhatsApp—two of its most valuable assets. The case also underscores growing concerns over Big Tech’s unchecked power and the government’s willingness to revisit and potentially reverse past merger approvals.

As opening statements begin, the trial promises to be a defining moment in the battle between Silicon Valley and Washington’s antitrust enforcers.

Apple boosts iPhone production in India, shifts focus away from China

April 13, 2025, 1:13 pm

Apple has significantly increased its iPhone manufacturing in India. In the year ending March 2025, the company assembled iPhones worth around $22 billion. This marks a 60% rise compared to the previous year. The move reflects Apple’s ongoing strategy to reduce its reliance on China for production.

According to Bloomberg, which cited people with knowledge of the matter, India now produces one out of every five iPhones globally. The $22 billion estimate reflects the factory gate value, not the retail price.

Foxconn and Tata lead India production

Foxconn’s large facility in southern India plays a key role in this growth. Tata Group, which now operates the former Wistron and Pegatron plants, has also become a major part of Apple’s supply chain in the country.

Exports increase after Trump’s tariffs

India’s IT Minister recently said Apple exported iPhones worth ₹1.5 trillion (about $17.4 billion) in the last fiscal year. Insiders noted a rise in shipments to the U.S. after former President Donald Trump imposed “reciprocal” tariffs in February. Apple reportedly responded by speeding up exports from India.

Although smartphones were later excluded from the new tariffs, many other Chinese imports still face duties as high as 145%. Trump’s separate 20% tariff on Chinese goods, introduced to pressure Beijing on fentanyl, also remains in place.

India’s iPhone exports are not subject to U.S. tariffs. Analysts believe Apple will increasingly depend on India to supply the American market.

China still critical to Apple’s supply chain

Despite India’s growing role, Apple’s ties to China remain strong. The company still relies on about 200 Chinese suppliers and a deeply integrated ecosystem. Apple CEO Tim Cook has also acknowledged China’s strength in manufacturing.

Even though Trump has urged Apple to move production to the U.S., experts say this is unlikely to happen soon. The U.S. lacks the infrastructure and skilled labor needed for large-scale iPhone assembly.

A 2022 report from Bloomberg Intelligence said it would take eight years for Apple to shift just 10% of its production out of China. This shows how deeply embedded Apple remains in the Chinese supply chain.

India’s manufacturing success grows

Still, Apple has made major progress in India. It now assembles its full iPhone range there, including high-end titanium Pro models. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has supported this shift. A new $2.7 billion subsidy package for electronics and semiconductor manufacturing has also helped.

Apple earned nearly $8 billion from India sales in the last fiscal year, mostly through iPhones. Though its market share in India stands at only 8%, Apple appears committed to growing its presence. The company sees India not just as a sales market, but as a key part of its global manufacturing network.

Trump to Meet Bukele as El Salvador Accepts Migrants, EU Dig Goes Viral

April 13, 2025, 12:26 pm

El Salvador President Nayib Bukele will meet former U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday. This comes as the U.S. prepares to deport hundreds of undocumented migrants to El Salvador. The meeting signals growing cooperation between the two leaders.

Bukele Accepts U.S. Migrants

President Bukele has agreed to take in the migrants. Authorities in El Salvador will house them in local prisons. Trump praised this decision on his Truth Social platform. He wrote, “The two countries are working closely together to eradicate terrorist organizations, and build a future of Prosperity.” He added, “They will never threaten or menace our Citizens again!”

Bukele’s Bottle Post Sparks Reaction

Just before he landed in the U.S. on Saturday, Bukele posted a photo of an open bottle on X (formerly Twitter). He captioned it, “It’s real. This ain’t a drill!” Billionaire Elon Musk quickly reacted with a laughing emoji.

Social Media Sees Dig at Europe

Some social media users viewed the post as a swipe at Europe. They linked it to the European Union’s 2019 Single-Use Plastics Directive. This rule requires plastic bottles sold after July 2024 to have tethered caps. Bukele’s uncapped bottle appeared to mock the regulation.

https://twitter.com/nayibbukele/status/1911174170257346990

Bukele Has Criticized Europe Before

Bukele has previously taken shots at Europe. In 2024, he said, “You can't claim the title free world if your people are not even free to walk down the streets.” He also said the continent is “no longer free and is declining.”

U.S. Upgrades El Salvador’s Safety Rating

Earlier this week, the U.S. upgraded El Salvador’s travel safety status. It now ranks higher than many Western European countries. This move shows how the U.S. views El Salvador as a stronger ally under Bukele’s leadership.

Prison Partnership on the Agenda

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the two leaders will also discuss prison cooperation. El Salvador’s supermax prison is currently housing gang members from Tren de Aragua and MS-13. Leavitt said, “El Salvador's cooperation with the United States has become a model for others to work with this administration.”

Peso Set Free: Argentina Makes Bold Economic Shift With IMF Support

April 12, 2025, 9:15 am

Argentina took major steps to fix its economy on Friday. It removed key currency controls and loosened its hold on the peso. These changes came after the country signed a $20 billion agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

IMF deal brings immediate money

Under this 48-month Extended Fund Facility, Argentina will receive $12 billion right away. Additionally, the IMF will conduct the first review in June. If that review goes well, Argentina will get another $2 billion.

Peso to trade within a wider range

Meanwhile, the central bank announced a big policy shift. Starting Monday, it will remove the fixed exchange rate. As a result, the peso will float between 1,000 and 1,400 pesos per U.S. dollar. On Friday, it closed at 1,074 per dollar.

Country removes major capital controls

Furthermore, the central bank said it will scrap most parts of the "cepo" system. These strict capital controls had limited access to foreign currency for years. From now on, companies can send their profits outside Argentina. This change meets a key demand from investors. In turn, it could attract more foreign investment.

Economy Minister confirms the reforms

Later, Economy Minister Luis Caputo spoke about these changes at a press briefing. He said, “As of Monday, we will be able to put an end to the foreign exchange restrictions which were imposed in 2019 and which limit the normal functioning of the economy.”

Sensex Surges 1,300 Points Despite Trump Tariff Turmoil

April 11, 2025, 12:44 pm

India stock market rally during global sell-off is making waves around the world, as Sensex jumped more than 1,300 points and Nifty almost 450 on Friday, defying the sharp decline in Asia. While Japan, South Korea, and Australia markets fell as US-China trade tensions flared again and Trump announced surprise tariff increases, India's shares rallied. The rally came after Washington unexpectedly suspended new tariffs on India for 90 days, lifting investor mood. Supported by robust domestic fundamentals, favorable economic indicators, and selective international respite, India is shaping up as a beacon of hope in a turbulent international financial environment.

Asian Bloodbath vs Indian Optimism

Asian markets were severely affected on Friday. Japan's Nikkei 225 declined more than 5.4%, wiping out the day before's gains following Trump's tariff flip. The Topix fell likewise, while South Korea's Kospi and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 both tumbled sharply. Risk sentiment vanished following Trump's declaration of new tariffs — 145% on certain Chinese goods — and then suddenly suspending most of them, except against China. But India was the exception. The Sensex surged 1,353.59 points to 75,200.74, while the Nifty 50 shot up 443.70 points to 22,842.85 by morning trade. Merchants received the 90-day tariff holiday for Indian products positively, seeing it as an indicator of strategic partnership in the age of decoupling.

Domestic Strength Fuels Confidence

India's resilience is not a reflex response to outside news. The country's robust macroeconomic profile, solid corporate bottom lines, and unyielding government policy support have not dissuaded investors. Foreign institutional investors even became net buyers, perceiving India as a haven in a world riddled with uncertainty. Further, India's relative immunity from Chinese supply chains and sustained drive towards manufacturing autonomy (through initiatives such as PLI) further enhances its attractiveness.

A Decoupling in the Making?

This divergence presages more than a one-day rally. It indicates a larger shift — India's increasing capacity to decouple from the vagaries of the global market. Even as short-term ripples of US trade moves will persist, India's underlying economic story is one of self-reliance, reform, and global positioning. With COP30 and G20momentum in its favor, and in the midst of a global rush for stable markets, India's equity resilience could be but an omen for a bigger decoupling yet to come.

Trump admits ‘transition difficulties’ as US, Asian markets slump again

April 11, 2025, 8:35 am

Donald Trump responded to the growing market instability. He admitted that economic changes bring “transition problems” and “difficulty.” His remarks came as U.S. and Asian markets continued to slide due to his tough tariff policies.

White House Raises Tariffs on China

The White House recently increased tariffs on certain Chinese goods to 145%. Earlier reports mentioned a 125% tariff. However, officials clarified the new figure includes a 20% existing levy on fentanyl-related products.

Trump Still Open to Negotiation

Despite rising tensions, Trump expressed hope for a resolution with Beijing. He said, “I think we’ll end up working something out that’s very good for both countries.” His comments suggested that he still believes in striking a mutually beneficial deal.

U.S. Markets Close Deep in Red

After a positive start, U.S. markets fell sharply by the end of the day. The S&P 500 dropped 3.6%, the Dow Jones lost 2.5%, and the Nasdaq fell 4.31%. Tech giants suffered major losses. Amazon and Apple both dropped 7%, while Warner Bros Discovery plunged 14%.

Asian Markets Follow U.S. Trend

Markets in Asia opened weakly and posted significant losses. Japan’s Nikkei fell 4.61%, ending at 33,014.84. South Korea’s KOSPI dropped 1.5% to 2,408.38. Australia’s ASX 200 slipped 1.85%. In contrast, the Shanghai Composite and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index remained mostly flat.

As markets continue to react, Trump stood by his tariff move. However, his signal toward a possible agreement with China offered a hint of relief. Investors now await further clarity on future trade developments.

Disney Heiress Abigail Disney Calls Out Billionaires Keeping Their Wealth

April 10, 2025, 3:26 pm

Abigail Disney, granddaughter of Roy O. Disney (co-founder of the Walt Disney Company), is pushing for greater taxes on America's wealthiest residents. The self-proclaimed philanthropist says that billionaires have no need to accumulate extra riches when they already have more than enough. Abigail, a one-time donor of millions, is also a member of Patriotic Millionaires, a collective of wealthy Americans who believe in paying more taxes. She has spoken out about how billionaires make money simply by not moving, since their wealth increases passively over time. I think that any billionaire who can't survive on $999m is somehow a sociopath. Like, why? You know, a billion dollars over makes money so quickly that you can't possibly get rid of it. And so simply by sitting on your hands, you become more of a billionaire until you're a double billionaire. It's a weird way to live when you have objectively more money than a person can possibly spend," she said to The Guardian. Abigail deliberately decided early in life to give away most of her inheritance. Through 2021, she had donated about $70 million to benefit groups such as women with HIV, women in prison, and victims of domestic violence. She has also stood firmly against the abuse of wealth for personal advantage and power, cautioning that it threatens democracy. Addressing the Vatican, Abigail expressed her concerns: "I feel sad and worried about how greed and selfishness can harm a country's democracy." Abigail admitted that her easy life in the US wasn't solely the product of diligent work. Rather, she attributed her good fortune to good tax policies, sheer luck, and the financial support of her grandparents.

Markets Go Gaga: US Stocks See Biggest One-Day Jump After Trump’s Tariff Pause

April 10, 2025, 6:55 am

In a dramatic turn on Wall Street, U.S. stock indexes recorded their biggest one-day gains in over a decade following former President Donald Trump’s announcement of a temporary pause on higher tariffs. The move, aimed at easing economic tensions, ignited a buying frenzy across markets, with major indexes posting historic gains.

According to Bloomberg, the S&P 500 closed 9.5% higher, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 soared 12%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also jumped 7.9%, marking a major rebound amid recent market turbulence. Roughly 30 billion shares changed hands during the session — the most on record as per Bloomberg data.

Trump made the announcement late Wednesday via social media, stating, “I have authorized a 90 day PAUSE, and a substantially lowered Reciprocal Tariff during this period, of 10%, also effective immediately.” However, the pause specifically excludes tariffs on China, which remain elevated at 125% after Beijing retaliated earlier with an 84% levy on U.S. imports.

The S&P 500’s surge marked its biggest intraday reversal — nearly 11% — since the 2008 global financial crisis. The rally even surpassed gains seen during the infamous 2010 Flash Crash. Goldman Sachs reported that its basket of most-shorted stocks surged 17.34%, outpacing the broader index.

The sharp rally was driven in part by hedge funds scrambling to cover short positions and increased buying in tech. “We currently have aggressive covering among hedge funds and long only buying in tech that is ramping with each leg higher in the market,” wrote Goldman Sachs partner John Flood in a client note.

JPMorgan Chase’s prime brokerage unit had earlier warned that such a rally could trigger a significant short squeeze. Leveraged exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also played a role in intensifying the uptrend. “Levered ETFs mechanically adding long equity exposure supercharged the rally,” said Daniel Kirsch, head of options at Piper Sandler.

Among the standout gainers were Nvidia Corp. (+18.03%), Advanced Micro Devices (+23.82%), Delta Air Lines (+23.38%), and Tesla Inc. (+22.69%). Meanwhile, the Cboe Volatility Index (VIX), often called Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” plummeted from 50 to 35 — a sign of easing investor anxiety.

While optimism surged in the wake of Trump’s tariff pause, analysts caution that uncertainties remain, especially with trade tensions with China still unresolved.

Germany’s Aurubis Boosts U.S. Copper Recycling with $800 Million Facility

April 10, 2025, 5:00 am

SANTIAGO – In a major move for the American recycling and clean energy sectors, Germany’s Aurubis is all set to ramp up operations at its $800 million copper recycling facility in Richmond, USA, this year. The announcement was made by Aurubis CEO Toralf Haag during an interview at the CESCO and CRU copper conferences. The new facility will process 180,000 metric tons of complex copper scrap annually and produce around 70,000 tons of refined copper, essential for industries like construction, electric vehicles, and power infrastructure.

Filling a Market Gap in North America

“There is no large copper recycling facility in North America currently,” Haag noted. “Most copper scrap is exported.” In fact, in 2024, the U.S. exported nearly 960,000 tons of copper scrap—with 41% going to China, followed by Canada (11%) and Thailand (10%), according to Trade Data Monitor. Haag believes the timing couldn’t be better. U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is currently investigating the possibility of imposing tariffs on copper imports, including scrap. The goal? To promote domestic copper production and reduce export dependency.

Richmond Facility: A Strategic Investment

The Richmond plant is Aurubis’ only operation in the U.S., but it may not be the last. Haag says the company could invest further in American recycling capacity in the future. “For now, we are focusing on delivering on the Richmond project,” he said.

Scrap Sources and Future Demand

Aurubis is eyeing diverse sources of copper scrap including:

The automotive industry
Telecom cables
And soon, data centers

“Copper in data centers lasts only three to five years because technology evolves so quickly,” Haag explained. With the rise of AI and cloud computing, copper demand from data centers is projected to surge in coming years.

‘I’m Not the Sanjay of Mahabharata’: RBI Governor on Repo Rate Amid Trump’s Tariff Turmoil

April 9, 2025, 2:51 pm

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra on Wednesday made a 25 basis point reduction in the repo rate, taking it down to 6.5%. This is the second rate reduction in the calendar year and has come at a time when there is increasing global economic uncertainty on account of trade tariffs led by US President Donald Trump. The RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) also shifted its policy stance from "neutral" to "accommodative", signaling potential further rate cuts or status quo in upcoming policy reviews.

Uncertain Road Ahead for Repo Rate Cuts

Speaking to reporters, Malhotra emphasized the uncertain outlook for further reductions in the repo rate due to ongoing global volatility. "We have reduced repo rates. We have changed the stance going forward, which means that the direction of the policy repo rate is downwards, where it will reach we really don't know. I’m Sanjay, but I'm not the Sanjay of Mahabharata, to be able to foresee that far. I do not have that divine vision that he had," said the Governor, providing a humorous comment amidst serious economic discussion.

Government and RBI Should Act in Concert

Responding to a question regarding whether the RBI would play a more prominent role in steering the changing global economic landscape, Malhotra opined that the central bank and the government need to act in concert. "It's a joint effort. You know, who does more of the heavy lifting, etc. The government has done its bit. I think, in the budget that you saw recently, a large number of measures, whether you know it is in terms of the increased capex, whether it is in terms of the tax rebates on the personal income tax side," he explained.

Tariff War Adds to Economic Headwinds

Malhotra also recognized that recent international events have added even more to the complexity of the economic situation. "The recent trade tariff related measures have exacerbated uncertainties clouding the economic outlook across regions, posing new headwinds for global growth and inflation," he added.

Revised Growth Projection

RBI has reduced its GDP growth estimate for FY 2025-26 from 6.7% to 6.5%. Malhotra promised that the central bank is still committed to non-inflationary growth. "The domestic growth-inflation trajectory demands monetary policy to be growth supportive, while being watchful on the inflation front. We are aiming for a non-inflationary growth that is built on the foundations of an improved demand and supply response and sustained macroeconomic balance. As before, we shall remain agile and decisive in our response and put in place policies that are clear, consistent, credible and in the best interest of the economy," he said.

How RBI’s 25 bps Rate Cut Could Save You Rs. 3.8 Lakh | TDG Explainer

April 9, 2025, 1:56 pm

Home loan borrowers can expect some relief on the finances, with the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) recent reduction of the repo rate by 25 basis points to 6%. The announcement made in the first monetary policy review for the financial year 2025–26 is expected to soften the interest rates of home loans, possibly below 8% annually. While the move is encouraging for borrowers, much will depend on how banks respond. In the past, banks have been cautious about passing on the full benefit of repo rate cuts. According to a Financial Express report, a rate cut of around 50 basis points by major lenders, triggered by the RBI’s 25 basis point reduction, could bring significant relief to homebuyers weighed down by high EMIs over recent years. HDFC Bank and Axis Bank have already assured 'Moneycontrol' that they have extended the entire 25-basis point advantage to their current borrowers. Banks are required by RBI regulations to review their interest rates on at least a quarterly basis. Yet, how soon the changes apply can be different depending on specific loan agreements. New customers opting to borrow might soon enjoy better lending rates as well.

What will be the effect on EMIs

To realize the potential gains, imagine a borrower of a Rs. 50 lakh home loan for 20 years at 9% interest. The EMI here would be around Rs. 44,986. If lenders transmit a 50-basis point cut, the EMI would come down to around Rs. 43,391, reducing the borrower's outgo by Rs. 1,595 every month. In a year, that translates into Rs. 19,140, and over the tenure of the loan, the aggregate savings could cross Rs. 3.8 lakh. The CEO and co-founder of Freo explained that those on floating interest rate loans linked to the RBI’s repo rate are in a position to benefit. “Home loan borrowers with floating interest rates tied to the RBI’s repo rate can expect EMI reductions if the RBI cuts by 25 basis points,” he said. He also acknowledged that banks may not pass on the full benefit immediately, though borrowers will still see some relief. Since October 1, 2019, all new floating-rate retail loans are tied to an external benchmark, which for most banks is the repo rate. The overall interest rate made available to borrowers consists of the repo rate itself, a spread based on the bank, and a credit risk premium based on the borrower's credit score.

Borrowers With High Rates Should Refinance

Adhil Shetty, CEO of Bankbazaar.com, said in an interview with Economic Times that with the recent 25-bps rate reduction, "home loan rates [will] fall below eight percent again," and further stated that "the lowest rates currently range from 8.10 to 8.35 percent." He pointed out that borrowers with good credit profiles (credit score greater than 750) and those refinancing loans would be the largest gainers. He also suggested that home owners who are paying rates at least 50 basis points more than market rates should refinance. "Repo-linked home loans are the only ones that get automatic, immediate, and full rate cuts, which can reduce borrowers' interest payments," Shetty said.

RBI Reduces Repo Rate by 25 bps, Adopts ‘Accommodative’ Policy Stance

April 9, 2025, 10:40 am

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the policy repo rate by 25 basis points on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra announced the cut, bringing the key lending rate down to 6%. This is the first monetary policy in the fiscal year 2025-26 and the second consecutive rate reduction of the calendar year.

Global Trade Unrest Adds Pressure

This policy move was only after US President Donald Trump's retaliatory tariffs kicked in, including a sharp 104% duty on Chinese imports. Markets across the globe have been on edge ever since, and the Indian central bank has not been spared either. Trump imposed a 26% tariff on Indian goods from April 9, which could set off new inflationary pressures and decelerate trade sentiment. The RBI, in its policy statement, did recognize these external headwinds with great emphasis, underlining the necessity of acting pre-emptively.

Inflation at 7-Month Low

India’s retail inflation fell to a 7-month low of 3.61% in February 2025, coming in below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4%. This provided room for the central bank to continue easing rates. However, with the fresh tariffs and concerns over global demand, the RBI remains cautious about future price pressures.

#WATCH | Mumbai | RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra says, " The MPC (Monetary Policy Committee) voted unanimously to reduce the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 6 % per cent with immediate effect." (Source: RBI) pic.twitter.com/rRVCJiTy0H
— ANI (@ANI) April 9, 2025

Analysts had generally anticipated a rate reduction on Wednesday, spurred by easing inflation and the urgent need to boost economic growth. The MPC had last reduced the repo rate by 25 bps in February, the first such reduction since May 2020, following a gap of two-and-a-half years.

RBI to Release Monetary Policy Report

In addition to the MPC announcement, the RBI will publish its Monetary Policy Report (MPR), which will provide more detailed insights into the central bank's approach and its economic projections for 2025-26. Economists have raised alarm over a possible global recession, cautioning that increased costs due to the tariffs would lower demand and damage growth prospects.

Markets Respond to Twin Pressures

Indian stock markets opened lower on Wednesday, reversing morning gains. The Nifty 50 index fell 75.55 points (0.34%) to open at 22,460.30. The BSE Sensex, meanwhile, opened lower by 123.25 points (-0.17%) at 74,103.83. While the RBI adopts a conservative but growth-focused trajectory, global uncertainties driven by US trade policy continue to pose a threatening risk for emerging nations such as India.

Nifty, Sensex Slip Ahead of RBI Policy as Trump’s China Tariffs Hit Global Markets

April 9, 2025, 10:36 am

Indian stock markets opened with losses, reversing earlier gains. Both the Sensex and Nifty dropped in early trade on Wednesday. This decline followed weak global cues after former US President Donald Trump warned of a 104% tariff on Chinese goods. His statement signaled continued uncertainty in global trade.

Key Indices Open in Red

The NSE Nifty 50 index fell by 75.55 points, or 0.34%, to open at 22,460.30. Similarly, the BSE Sensex started at 74,103.83, down by 123.25 points or 0.17%. Experts said the global reaction to Trump’s tariff warning played a key role in dragging Indian markets.

Focus Shifts to RBI MPC Meeting

Despite the global worries, domestic attention turned to the Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) announcement expected later in the day. Banking and market expert Ajay Bagga told ANI, “In all the Tariff tumult, there has been little focus on the MPC meeting outcome this morning. RBI has commendably moved on the path of monetary easing using the triple arrows of Rate Cuts, Liquidity injection and macro prudential easing. We expect continuity on easing and these steps today, expect a rate cut of 0.25 per cent.”

No CRR Cut Expected

He added that the RBI had already injected liquidity, making a CRR (Cash Reserve Ratio) cut unnecessary. He also noted, “Inflation number stays as per last meeting, nothing moving it up, crude oil move down has been too recent and has not flown through to end users as the govt has focussed on LPG subsidy recovery via excise duty hike for now. Growth number stays constant, though tariff tumult will lead to a hit to GDP for FY26 if there is no relief.”

Asian Markets Also Fall

Meanwhile, most Asian markets opened in the red. Japan’s Nikkei 225 dropped by 3.66%, while Taiwan’s Weighted Index was down more than 4%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index fell by 1.52%, and South Korea’s KOSPI index declined by 1.40%.

Nifty May Face Pressure Without Strong Close

Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities, said Indian markets need a strong close to regain momentum. “The Nifty's rebound yesterday needs to do more for bulls to extend their optimism. Unless we close above 22857, the bias will be weak. For the day, support lies in the 22236-22292 zone. For this week, bulls have to ensure a close over 22150, else the recent lows will again come under threat,” he explained.

US Markets End in Deep Red After Initial Gains

US stock markets began the previous session with strong gains. Optimism rose as discussions on tariff deals with South Korea and Japan surfaced. However, concerns over China’s looming 104% tariffs led to a sharp reversal.

Eventually, the S&P 500 recorded a fourth straight day of losses. It dropped 1.57%, while the Nasdaq declined by 2.15%. Over the four-day slump, the S&P 500 lost 12%, wiping out more than USD 10 trillion in market capitalization.

Wall Street Braces for Bear Market as Tariffs Spark Global Economic Fears

April 8, 2025, 2:56 pm

Wall Street could soon enter a bear market. The Trump administration recently raised tariffs on imported goods. As a result, fears have grown that these taxes could hurt the global economy.

Previously, the last bear market occurred in 2022. However, the current decline feels more like the fast and chaotic fall of 2020. Back then, the S&P 500 dropped by 34% in just one month. It became the shortest bear market in history.

Understanding bear markets

To explain, a bear market happens when a major index—like the S&P 500 or the Dow—falls by 20% or more from a recent high, and stays down for a while.

The name “bear” represents retreat, much like how bears hibernate. On the other hand, a “bull” market describes a rising market, because bulls charge forward.

On Monday, the S&P 500 dipped by 0.2%. Earlier, it had dropped as much as 4.7%. At present, it’s 17.6% below the all-time high from February 19.

In comparison, the Dow Jones fell 0.9%. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq, already in a bear market, managed a slight gain of 0.1%.

To add context, the S&P 500’s last bear market ran from January 3 to October 12, 2022.

Why are investors worried?

One major reason is the trade war. It has triggered anxiety over how businesses and consumers will respond.

Last week, President Donald Trump followed through on tariff threats. He imposed a 10% tax on all imports and higher rates on countries with trade surpluses against the U.S.

The following day, global markets dropped sharply. Then, China retaliated by imposing equal tariffs on U.S. goods.

These tariffs create problems. First, importers pay the tax, but they often raise prices for consumers. That adds pressure to inflation. Second, tariffs usually lead to retaliation, which can hurt all economies involved.

Moreover, these policies make it harder for businesses to plan. They must rethink suppliers, factory locations, and pricing. Due to the uncertainty, many companies delay or cancel investments. That slows down economic growth.

At the same time, the U.S. economy is already showing signs of weakness. Additionally, fears are rising that tariffs may worsen inflation, which has started to climb.

How long do bear markets usually last?

Typically, bear markets take 13 months to fall from their peak to the lowest point. Then, it takes another 27 months to recover, on average. Since World War II, the S&P 500 has fallen an average of 33% during bear markets. Notably, the biggest drop occurred during the 2007–2009 crisis. At that time, the index fell by 57%.

Interestingly, the faster the index enters a bear market, the smaller the overall decline tends to be. Historically, stocks have taken 251 days (or about 8.3 months) to fall into bear territory. When the fall happens faster, the average drop is around 28%.

The longest bear market on record lasted 61 months. It ended in March 1942 and reduced the index by 60%.

When does a bear market end?

Generally, a bear market ends after a 20% rise from the lowest point, along with steady gains over six months. For example, in March 2020, stocks climbed 20% in less than three weeks after the crash.

What should investors do now?

If you need money soon or want to limit losses, selling might help. Otherwise, most financial advisers suggest staying invested. Market ups and downs are part of long-term growth.

While selling may stop losses, it also blocks potential gains. “Many of the best days for Wall Street have occurred either during a bear market or just after one ended.”

For instance, during the 2007–2009 bear market, the S&P 500 jumped 11% on two separate days. Similarly, it surged more than 9% during and shortly after the 2020 bear market.

Therefore, experts recommend investing in stocks only if you won’t need the money for several years. “The S&P 500 has come back from every one of its prior bear markets to eventually rise to another all-time high.”

Even after the painful crash in 2000 during the dot-com bubble, stocks eventually recovered. Although it was a tough decade, the market bounced back.

China Slams U.S. Tariff Plan, Pledges Full-Scale Fight

April 8, 2025, 1:39 pm

China said it would “fight to the end” if the U.S. keeps raising tariffs. This statement came after US President Donald Trump threatened a 50% tax on Chinese goods. He said the new tariff would take effect if Beijing didn’t cancel its recent trade moves.

In response, China’s commerce ministry accused the U.S. of “blackmail.” It called Trump’s warning “a mistake on top of a mistake.” Officials stated, “China will fight to the end if the US side is bent on going down the wrong path.”

Markets Start to Rebound

Despite the tension, Asian markets began to recover on Tuesday. Just a day earlier, global stocks had dropped sharply. In fact, billionaire investor Bill Ackman, a Trump supporter, urged both countries to take a break from the trade fight.

Tariff Fight Heats Up

Earlier, Trump raised tariffs on several U.S. trading partners. Among them, he placed a 34% tax on goods from China, adding to a previous 20% tariff. In return, Beijing imposed a 34% tariff on all U.S. imports.

Then on Monday, Trump issued a fresh threat on Truth Social, “If China does not withdraw its 34% increase above their already long term trading abuses by tomorrow, April 8th, 2025, the United States will impose additional tariffs on China of 50%, effective April 9th. Additionally, all talks with China concerning their requested meetings with us will be terminated!”

Chinese Media Pushes Back

Following Trump’s comments, Chinese state media hit back hard. Xinhua published an editorial calling the move “naked extortion.” It added:
“Utterly absurd is the underlying logic of the United States: ‘I can hit you at my will, and you must not respond. Instead, you must surrender unconditionally’... This is not diplomacy. It is blunt coercion dressed up as policy.”

Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry shared a 1987 video of U.S. President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs. According to Chinese outlet The Paper, that speech “has a new meaning in 2025.”

Experts See a Standoff

According to analyst Wen-ti Sung from the Atlantic Council, both sides refuse to back down. He described the situation as “a game of chicken.”
“Like two race cars driving directly toward each other, whoever swerves first will stand to lose prestige and profit,” he said. Furthermore, Sung said China wants to show that it can stand up to the U.S. and will not let Washington dominate global trade rules. He explained, “China is still waiting to get more assurance from Trump that if it accommodates Trump’s demand will it get China out of his crosshairs or whether it will only whet his appetite more.”

If things escalate, he said, China will likely match U.S. sanctions and keep negotiating at the same time.

Stock Markets Recover Slightly

After Trump spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, markets began to recover. Japan’s Nikkei Index rose 6%. China’s blue-chip index gained 0.7% after Monday’s 7% loss. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rose 2%, bouncing back from its worst day since 1997. Meanwhile, U.S. stock futures also climbed after hitting a one-year low.

Other Countries Respond

Not only China, but other nations also hit back. The European Commission proposed a 25% tariff on U.S. goods like soybeans, nuts, and sausages. Still, the EU said it was open to a “zero for zero” deal.

At a press event, EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic said, “Sooner or later, we will sit at the negotiation table with the US and find a mutually acceptable compromise.”

Previously, the U.S. had already placed tariffs on European cars and metals. Starting Wednesday, a new 20% tariff will affect more items. Trump has even threatened taxes on European alcoholic drinks.

Taiwan Offers Talks Too

Meanwhile, Taiwan also responded to the tariffs. The island faces a 32% U.S. tariff and saw major losses in its markets. President Lai Ching-te proposed a deal with no tariffs, fewer trade limits, and more investment in the U.S.

Taiwan explained that its trade surplus comes from high U.S. demand for technology. Taiwanese firms supply major companies like Apple and Nvidia.

Indian Stock Market Roars Back, Regains ₹12,000 Cr in a Day

April 8, 2025, 1:35 pm

The Indian stock market rebound on Tuesday was a welcome relief after Monday's historic crash precipitated by new US tariffs. Driven by a 1,283-point rally in the Sensex and a 415-point rise in the Nifty, the rebound allowed investors to regain some confidence. Although volatility is still an issue, general global cues and India's good fundamentals provided comfort that the panic could be fleeting. The rebound also comes at a time when there are simmering US-China trade tensions, with President Trump signaling the possibility of raising tariffs on Chinese imports by 50%, creating anxiety in markets.

Global Sentiment Lifts Dalal Street

The rally on Tuesday was not triggered by local drivers. Peer markets in the region such as Japan's Nikkei, Hong Kong's Hang Seng, and South Korea's Kospi recorded robust gains after the fall on Monday. These signals lifted Dalal Street investor sentiment. Back home, almost all 30 Sensex stocks were in the positive, led by TCS alone. Top gainers were Adani Ports, Bajaj Finserv, Axis Bank, and Tata Steel. The bounce was also aided by robust DII inflows, which beat foreign outflows. While FIIs offloaded more than ₹9,000 crore worth of equities on Monday, DIIs purchased more than ₹12,000 crore, as per exchange data.

Indian Market Bounces Back with Conviction

The bounce came in the face of persistent concerns over US-China trade wars. Trump's threat of tariffs can hurt Chinese exports severely, but analysts feel Indian stock market will remain insulated—due to ongoing bilateral negotiations with Washington. India's economic fundamentals are also keeping investor jitters in check. The Economic Survey projected 6.3%–6.8% GDP growth for FY25, while the government is expecting 6.5% in FY26. Meanwhile, Brent crude's minor increase still keeps oil prices in check for India. The larger worry today is not tariffs, but volatility. The India VIX rose almost 70%, indicating consistent jitters. While experts expect resistance at 22,660 on the Nifty, long-term gains will hinge on worldwide tranquility and stable policy cues. For the moment, India has avoided a deeper rout—but investors must prepare for a rough ride.

Green Again! Indian Stock Market Recovers After Worst Drop In 10 Months: Here’s What Changed

April 8, 2025, 10:20 am

A day after facing its sharpest fall in 10 months, the Indian stock market bounced back with strong momentum on Tuesday, April 8. In early trade, investor sentiment appeared to recover from the US tariff-driven panic that rocked global equities the previous session.

At 9:15 am, the BSE Sensex opened 1,141.14 points higher, gaining 1.56% to reach 74,279.04. Meanwhile, the NSE Nifty jumped 401.10 points or 1.81% to open at 22,562.70.

Tata Steel leads gainers; Sun Pharma the only laggard

Among the 30 Sensex constituents, Tata Steel led the rally with a sharp 4.98% rise, trading at ₹136.05. Titan Company followed, up 4.71% at ₹3,166.05, and Tata Motors gained 3.48%, trading at ₹600. Only Sun Pharmaceutical Industries remained in the red, slipping 0.34% to ₹1,662.75.

Consumer durables, metal, realty sectors shine

Sector-wise, the Nifty Consumer Durables Index surged the most, climbing 3.25% to 35,112.40. The Nifty Metal Index followed with a 2.99% gain at 8,080.90, while the Nifty Realty Index rose 2.42% to 795.

Recap of the Monday market meltdown

The rebound comes after a brutal session on Monday, April 7, where the Sensex plunged 2,226.79 points or 2.95% to close at 73,137.90. The Nifty fell 742.85 points or 3.24% to settle at 22,161.60. The massive selloff was triggered by investor fears linked to new US tariffs, resulting in panic across global markets.

On Monday, Tata Steel saw the steepest drop among Sensex stocks, falling 7.73% to ₹129.60. It was followed by Larsen & Toubro (down 5.78% at ₹3,070.85) and Tata Motors (down 5.54% at ₹579.85). Hindustan Unilever was the sole gainer, inching up 0.25% to ₹2,250.15.

Sector-specific losses: Metal and Realty tumble

The Nifty Metal Index recorded the sharpest sectoral fall of 6.75% on Monday, closing at ₹7,846.35. Realty followed, down 5.69% at ₹776.20, and Media declined by 3.94% to ₹1,429.90.

In the metal space, Lloyds Metals & Energy tanked 8.86%, National Aluminium fell 7.86%, and JSW Steel dropped 7.53%. Among real estate stocks, Anant Raj declined 7.66%, Sobha 7.46%, and DLF 7.03%. In media, Zee Entertainment Enterprises fell 6.80%, followed by PVR Inox (5.55%) and Dish TV (4.35%).

FIIs sell big, DIIs buy bigger

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) remained net sellers, offloading equities worth ₹9,040.01 crore. In contrast, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) picked up the slack, buying ₹12,122.45 crore worth of stocks.

Meanwhile, the 10-year Indian Government Bond saw a 0.23% decline, trading at ₹102.05.

Apple May Shift iPhone Production to India as Trump’s China Tariffs Hit Hard

April 8, 2025, 4:11 am

As Donald Trump escalates his trade war with China, Apple is now looking toward India as a key manufacturing hub for its flagship iPhone models, according to a Wall Street Journal report. The move comes just days after Trump threatened an additional 50% import tax on Chinese goods following China's announcement of 34% retaliatory tariffs on US imports, which are set to kick in on April 10.

Apple Responds to Rising Costs by Diversifying Production

Facing steep tariffs and unpredictable trade policies, Apple is ramping up iPhone shipments from India to the US as a short-term workaround. This strategy allows the company to avoid Chinese duties while it seeks exemptions from Trump's new policies. A senior Indian official revealed to TOI that Apple flew five full shipments of iPhones and other products from India and China to the US in just three days at the end of March. These units were delivered before the new tariffs took effect, ensuring that Apple’s US inventory remains steady for the coming months.

Why India?

Apple has been building its production base in India since 2017, starting with older iPhone models and later expanding to newer versions. Manufacturing in India helps Apple:

Reduce reliance on China
Avoid import tariffs in the Indian market
Capitalize on India’s growing smartphone demand

The current shift is part of a broader diversification strategy as the tech giant reassesses its global supply chain in light of the volatile US-China trade landscape.

Apple Shares Take a Hit

Apple’s exposure to China has raised serious concerns among investors. With the iPhone contributing nearly 50% to Apple’s revenue, the threat of tariffs has caused a 20% drop in Apple’s shares, marking their worst three-day decline in 25 years. This plunge signals Wall Street’s unease with Apple’s current dependence on China and the potential for rising costs and disrupted supply lines.

Trade War Escalates

Trump’s tough stance on China includes:

April 2: 26% reciprocal tariffs on countries like India and China
April 8: Warning of 50% additional tariffs if China doesn't reverse its retaliatory hike
Talks underway with Japan and Israel, causing further global uncertainty

With tensions mounting, companies like Apple are left to scramble for alternatives, and India is emerging as a vital player in the global tech supply chain.

Circuit Breakers: Shields the Stock Market or Just Delays the Fall? | TDG Explainer

April 7, 2025, 4:57 pm

Asian markets plummeted on April 7, 2025, after the US, led by President Donald Trump, suddenly imposed extensive "reciprocal" tariffs. The agression of those trade actions sparked fears of an international economic conflict. Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan saw their major indices plummet, compelling market halts via circuit breakers—safety devices that suspend trading as volatility surges. Even India's market fell almost 4% for the day. Let's know what circuit breakers are, how they work, and what their increased use means in terms of the delicacy of the international stock market.

Asian Markets Hit Hard

Asian stock markets experienced their worst sell-off in years. Investors panicked following Trump's announcement of steep tariffs, worried about retaliation and disrupted global trade. Japan's Nikkei declined more than 8% in hours. South Korea's Kospi declined almost 5%, while Taiwan's Taiex plummeted almost 10% before these breakers took effect. In both instances, trading stopped short to avoid greater losses. Such interruptions mirrored the high degree of sensitivity of the markets today to political risk. The rapidity and magnitude of the falls revealed how quickly world capital can leave when confidence fails.

What Are Circuit Breakers and How Do They Work?

Circuit breakers function similar to emergency brakes. When prices decline too rapidly, these automatic devices halt trading temporarily. The intention is to provide investors with time to cool off, comprehend the news, and prevent them from making impulsive decisions. Various markets have various thresholds. In Tokyo, for instance, a sudden drop in the Nikkei caused the exchange to halt trades for 10 minutes. Taiwan and South Korea did the same, halting activity to stem the momentum of the selling. The premise is straightforward: cut off the panic before it gets away. Although they don't turn losses around, circuit breakers seek to minimize the impact and bring some semblance of order.

India Slips But Holds Ground

India's markets declined too, but less sharply. The BSE Sensex lost 3,230 points and the Nifty fell more than 1,000—both more than 4% lower. But circuit breakers did not trip. Economists attribute India's better-performing domestic economy, less foreign speculation, and more stable retail investor base to softening the blow. India's regulator, SEBI, imposes circuit breakers at 10%, 15%, and 20% levels. Such rules impose discipline and clarity, making the behavior of the market more predictable. India was not spared from global shockwaves, but its systems ensured panic was kept under check.

Why Circuit Breakers Were Introduced ?

These were originated in the wake of the 1987 Black Monday collapse, when the Dow Jones fell 22.6% in a single day. That historic plunge revealed the risk of unbridled panic. Regulators developed circuit breakers to avert repeat failures by soothing the frenzy. They've since improved. The 2010 Flash Crash and the COVID-19 panic of 2020 forced exchanges to hone these systems. As Morgan Stanley noted after the 2020 pandemic-triggered selloffs, ‘circuit breakers bought us time—but not clarity. US markets invoked circuit breakers four times in ten days in March 2020. These instances demonstrated that even today's markets can spin out of control—and require safety valves.

Do Circuit Breakers Work—or Just Delay the Crash?

These breakers stop the bleeding, but only for temporary basis. Supporters argue they give traders time to breathe and rethink. Critics believe they just delay the inevitable. Once trading resumes, prices often keep sliding. There is another danger: pent-up sell orders can build up pressure in the break. When trading resumes, the floodgates open, and volatility surges anew. In world markets, the disparity in rules can also create confusion. If Tokyo closes but Wall Street doesn't, investors can react in unpredictable manners. Others fear excessive dependency creates complacency. Dealers may take greater risks, anticipating circuit breakers will break their fall. That can create more catastrophic crashes later.

What Are Their Long-Term Effects?

Circuit breakers help calm markets during unexpected crashes—but their long-term impact raises serious questions. In the long run, these instruments shape investor psychology—usually inadvertently. At one level, they insulate against chaos, keeping impulsive choices from escalating into outright financial disasters. However, if used repeatedly, they can encourage a false perception of security. Investors may start to think that markets will always be "paused" before real damage is done, which would lead to riskier behavior. Circuit breakers don't solve the underlying causes of market volatility—such as bad policymaking, poor economic fundamentals, or geopolitical tensions. They only treat the symptoms in the short term. As markets expand more rapidly and become more interconnected, circuit breakers could be swamped, particularly when algorithmic trading and cross-border flows are prevalent. Thus, they are partial but a necessary solution—purchasing time, not stability.

Circuit Breakers in a Globalized Market

The modern financial world is interdependent. A jolt in one nation sends shockwaves around the world in seconds. That makes circuit breakers more crucial—but also more complicated. To work, nations require enhanced coordination. Definitive guidelines, effective communications, and educating investors are more crucial than ever. The sell-off on April 7 served as a demonstration of how easily one policy shift can ruffle markets globally. Circuit breakers come in handy. But they replace nothing: responsible economic policy, solid governance. When the globe is this mercurial, there must be more profound answers.

Stock Market Needs More Than Just a Pause Button

Circuit breakers are useful tools, but they're not the complete solutions. They halt panic in the short run but can't avoid deeper instability. As trade wars erupt and policy shocks mount, these breakers might be used more—but their limitations are obvious. The world's stock market requires greater coordination, improved fundamentals, and wiser regulation. Circuit breakers will never go away, but they have to operate together with genuine reforms to render markets genuinely resilient.

Investors Lose ₹19 Lakh Crore: The 5 Blackest Days of the Indian Stock Market

April 7, 2025, 4:44 pm

In what is being referred to as a "Black Monday" for the Indian Stock Market, investors saw one of the sharpest one-day crashes in years, erasing a whopping Rs 19 lakh crore from the market. The meltdown was triggered by the announcement of broad import tariffs by former US President Donald Trump on more than 180 nations, setting global financial markets in a tizzy. The BSE Sensex nose-dived by 3,914.75 points or 5.19%, beginning the day at 71,449.94, while Nifty 50 fell 1,146.05 points or 5%, beginning the day at 21,758.40. Every sector ended in the red deep, with IT, pharma, metal, and auto stocks bearing the worst brunt.

Market Cap Erosion and Sectoral Bloodbath

The market capitalization of BSE-listed firms collectively fell from Rs 403.34 lakh crore to Rs 383.81 lakh crore, a loss of almost Rs 19 lakh crore in hours. Mid-cap and small-cap indices fell even more precipitously, further heightening investor misery across the board. Asian markets such as Japan and Hong Kong and Wall Street also saw sharp falls, contributing to the selling pressure in Indian stock market. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) dominated the selling, offloading huge volumes of stock.

Tariff Mayhem and International Apprehension

Trump's threat of new import tariffs has revived apprehensions over a worldwide trade war. Experts feel that this can severely jolt international trade flows and company profits, causing extended market volatility. "The market has responded sharply to the threat of renewed trade war, which has the potential to slow economic growth and put earnings under heavy pressure," said a senior brokerage analyst.

What's Next for Indian Stock Market?

Market analysts caution that if fears of a trade war increase further, Indian markets can expect further drops in the near term. Any fiscal or monetary support from the Reserve Bank of India or the government could, however, help stabilize the trend. Long-term investors might take this drop as an opportunity to buy, but short-term traders can expect volatility to continue.

Not the First Time: Biggest Crash in Indian Stock Market

This is not the first time that the Indian stock market have experienced a spectacular crash. These are five of the largest single-day market crashes in Indian history: 1. Harshad Mehta Scam Crash (1992) The Indian economy received its initial major shake-up in 1992 when the Harshad Mehta scam. The Sensex lost 570 points or 12.7% on 28th April, 1992. This led to major reforms in India's financial sector, such as increased powers for SEBI as a regulator. 2. Ketan Parekh Scam Crash (2001) The market was shaken once again in 2001 by another broker, Ketan Parekh's manipulation scandal. The SENSEX went down by 176 points or 4.13% on March 2, 2001. It coincided with poor global leads and the Gujarat earthquake aftermath. 3. Election Shock Crash (2004) On May 17, 2004, the Sensex plummeted by 11.1% on the shock defeat of the NDA by the UPA in the general elections. Panic selling compelled the exchange to suspend trade twice during one day. Only after the UPA asserted that it would stay committed to economic reforms did the market regain its confidence. 4. Global Financial Crisis Crash (2008) Lehman Brothers' collapse set off a meltdown all over the world, with Sensex plunging 1,408 points or 7.4% on January 21, 2008. In the next few months, the index declined almost 60% from its height, which is one of the worst bear periods in the history of Indian markets. 5. COVID-19 Pandemic Crash (2020) On March 23, 2020, panic over the COVID-19 nationwide lockdown led to the Sensex falling 3,935 points or 13.2%, the largest single-day fall in Indian stock market history.

Conclusion

As markets absorb the ripple impact of Trump's tariff announcement, investors are on tenterhooks. With global uncertainty and volatility increasing, Indian markets may continue to be under pressure in the days ahead. Stakeholders now turn to policy actions by central banks and governments to soothe the storm. For long-term investors, history has proved that market crashes, though painful, tend to create opportunities. But caution is the need of the hour.

Stock Market Bleeds: India Drops 4% But Still Holds Stronger

April 7, 2025, 3:17 pm

The Indian stock market experienced a volatile day on April 7, 2025, as the Sensex and Nifty 50 fell more than 4%. Nevertheless, in a day of general financial fear, the Indian share market was still able to outperform most major Asian indexes. The BSE Sensex fell by 3,230 points, closing at 72,134.56, while the Nifty 50 declined 1,034 points, closing at 21,870.10. Although the losses were severe, India's stock market demonstrated some resilience in the face of a vicious regional sell-off brought about by fears over global trade.

Indian Stock Market Outperforms Regional Collapse

The Sensex started at a low 71,449.94 but recovered some of its losses during the day. The Nifty 50 too began weak at 21,758.40 but recovered slightly. Top Sensex draggers were Tata Steel, Tata Motors, L&T, HCLTech, and Kotak Mahindra Bank. On the Nifty 50, the losers' list was led by Trent, JSW Steel, Shriram Finance, and Tata Motors. Despite these losses, analysts cited India's relatively stable stock market framework, better domestic fundamentals, and less foreign investor dependence. In contrast to markets such as Taiwan and Hong Kong, India's retail investor base is also considered less speculative, serving to cushion the blow.

Asia's Stock Markets Reeling From Tariff Shockwaves

In Asia, the stock markets suffered the greater damage. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index plummeted almost 13%—its worst in decades. Taiwan's Taiex plummeted almost 10% in initial trade and fluctuated about a 9% loss by afternoon. Japan's Nikkei declined more than 7%, highlighting the panicky nature of the region. The sell-off followed new US tariffs imposed by then-President Donald Trump, reviving concerns of a trade war. Global investors quickly withdrew funds from risky assets, causing a sharp shock in Asian stock markets.

Stock Market Volatility: India Holds Ground For Now

Though the Indian stock market performed better than its peers, there is uncertainty ahead. As global tensions escalate, currency volatility and trade disruptions lie ahead, investors will likely continue to face pressure. Don't be complacent, say experts, stay vigilant to changes in policy both internationally and in India. The Indian stock market is low—but far from out. The next few weeks will prove if its strength lasts.

Who Owns Lutyens’ Delhi in 2025? Meet the New Bungalow Buyers

April 7, 2025, 3:12 pm

Lutyens' Delhi, the capital's most upscale and closely controlled real estate sector, remains invested heavily by high net-worth individuals (HNIs), business leaders, and political leaders. Famous for its large green belts and colonial bungalows, this elitist enclave continues to attract the country's most powerful people despite strict building and renovation controls. In a high-profile recent transaction, Sanjay Kukreja, a partner with private equity behemoth ChrysCapital, and his wife Shaveta Sharma, CEO of Central Square Foundation, purchased a top bungalow in the elite Golf Links area for Rs 155 crore. The couple shelled out Rs 9.3 crore in stamp duty, highlighting the property's superior value.

New Elites Join Historic Address

Recent years have witnessed several marquee acquisitions in Lutyens' Bungalow Zone (LBZ), highlighting a growing trend among India’s corporate and business elites to own a piece of Delhi’s heritage. Prominent buyers include:

Vasudha Rohatgi, wife of former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi
Siddhant Real Estate, a DLF Limited subsidiary
Rangoli Resorts, led by Sheela Foam chairman Rahul Gautam
Gujarat-based Yatah Enterprise
Paytm founder, Vijay Shekhar Sharma
Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani

Why this Place Remains Popular Among HNIs

For most, a bungalow in Lutyens' Delhi is not so much a luxury investment as it is a symbol of status and a sign of influence in the power corridors of the country. With politicians of the highest ranks, bureaucrats, and industrialists as neighbors, the location comes with unparalleled prestige. Renamed after British architect Edwin Lutyens, the LBZ consists of around 1,000 heritage bungalows, 65-70 of which are privately owned. Demand is sky-high despite regulations that are tight urban and bar commercial development in the area.

Top Places in Lutyens' Delhi

Top-notch roads such as Prithviraj Road, Hailey Road, Amrita Shergill Marg, Aurangzeb Road, Ferozeshah Road, Tees January Marg, Motilal Nehru Marg, Sundar Nagar, Golf Links, and Kautilya Marg are particularly favourite with India's upper crust.

Key Realty Transactions in Lutyens' Delhi

Rs 241 crore: Kusum Ansal sold a Feroze Shah Road bungalow to Yatah Enterprise.
Rs 165 crore: Sheela Foam director Rahul Gautam bought a Hailey Road bungalow.
Rs 150 crore: Rajiv Singh of DLF-funded Sidhant Real Estate purchased property in Prithviraj Road.
Rs 160 crore: Vasudha Rohatgi purchased a bungalow at Golf Links in February 2023.
Rs 127.5 crore: Bhanu Chopra, the founder of RateGain, purchased a bungalow in the same complex.
Rs 68.5 crore: Shailesh Arora of Maxop Engineering acquired property in Golf Links in December 2022.
Rs 137 crore: Aakash Educational Services' Aakash Chaudhry purchased a Kautilya Marg bungalow.
Rs 85 crore: Former Solicitor General Gopal Subramanium purchased a June 2022 Sunder Nagar bungalow.
Rs 170 crore: Dixon Technologies CMD Sunil Vachani purchased a 2021 Golf Links bungalow.
Rs 400 crore: Gautam Adani completed one of the priciest transactions close to Bhagwan Das Road in 2020.
Rs 82 crore: Vijay Shekhar Sharma bought a Golf Links property in 2017.

The Lasting Prestige of Lutyens' Delhi

As new real estate projects pop up all over India, Lutyens' Delhi remains a special draw. For those who can afford it, an LBZ bungalow is not merely a house—it's a legacy, a symbol of power, and a link to India's colonial and political past. As the elite continue to snap up their share of this heritage area, the demand continues unabated.

Why Are Sensex and Nifty Falling Today? Key Reasons Behind the Indian Market Crash

April 7, 2025, 1:07 pm

Indian equities markets experienced a sharp fall on Monday, their worst start to the year since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. Investor sentiment was shaken by increasing prospects of a global trade war after former US President Donald Trump shocked markets with the surprise announcement of tariffs on all trading partners.

Sensex, Nifty Tumble Nearly 5%

The Sensex plummeted 3,939.68 points, opening at 71,425.01, while the Nifty plummeted 1,160.8 points to reach 21,743.65, both the indices plummeting almost 5% in early trade. This sharp fall came after a huge sell-off in international markets, including Wall Street and major Asian indices such as Japan, Singapore, and China.

IT, Metal Stocks Among Worst Hit

Industries that rely greatly on US markets suffered the most. Stocks of top IT companies—like HCL Technologies, Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services, and Reliance Industries—dropped steeply. Tata Steel crashed more than 8%, and Tata Motors dropped over 7%. Engineering and construction giant Larsen & Toubro also declined significantly.

Global Repercussions of Trump's Tariff Bomb

The rout in the market started following Trump's sweeping tariff declaration, sending alarm bells ringing about a possible global recession. Nations such as China, Canada, and Mexico are already preparing to strike back, raising fears of a long-term trade war. "Both China and Japan indices fell by 10 per cent and 8 per cent, respectively. This raises the stakes of the current trade war and fears of a possible global recession that would impact all," said Vikas Jain, Head of Research at Reliance Securities, in a statement to PTI. He further stated, "On Friday, the US S&P 500 fell by 6 per cent, and the Dow Jones dropped over 2,000 points, its worst week since the COVID-19 crisis. This followed China's move to impose reciprocal 34 per cent tariffs on all US imports from April 10."

Inflation and Profit Pressures Loom

The bilateral tariff increases by both the US and China are poised to push up inflation while slowing down global economic growth. As input prices continue to rise, businesses might soon experience diminishing profit margins at a time when earnings season begins. "Higher tariff rates will push numerous companies to increase prices or take lower margins," cautioned Goldman Sachs analysts. "We anticipate negative revisions in consensus profit margin expectations in upcoming quarters." The company also mentioned, "We anticipate in future quarterly earnings calls fewer companies than normal will give forward guidance on 2Q as well as full-year 2025." The effect of tariffs might begin to appear in economic statistics shortly. US consumer inflation data, which is to be released later this week, should show a 0.3% rise for March. But analysts warn that this might be the start of a sharper climb in prices for common items. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell also had his say, stating Trump's new tariff policy is "bigger than anticipated," and that "the economic effect on inflation and growth will be likely," suggesting an uncertain future for the US economy.

Nasdaq Enters Bear Market

Following the global chaos, the Nasdaq index officially fell into bear market territory on Friday. Oil prices and other major commodities also plummeted after Trump's tariff announcement, further deteriorating investor sentiment.

How US Tariff Sparked a Stock Market Slump in Europe | TDG Explainer

April 7, 2025, 12:48 pm

The United States, now in the control of President Donald Trump, imposed unprecedented broad tariffs across a vast range of global imports. These tariffs, intended to bring back American manufacturing and dampen trade deficits. This has not just shocked domestic markets but taken European stock markets on a wild ride. This primer digs into why the US chose to launch these tariffs, what they cover, and how they have led to dramatic falls on European financial markets.

Why Did the US Implement New Tariffs?

The Trump administration has long advocated for an "America First" economic policy centered on protecting domestic industry. The latest round of tariffs was framed as "reciprocal" a reaction to what the administration asserts are unfair trade practices by global partners. The tariffs specifically hit imports where the US feels it is at a strategic disadvantage, including automobiles, steel, aluminum, and luxury goods. This step is also largely viewed as an attempt to pressure before trade negotiations with allies as well as rivals. Through tariffs, the US aims to win better trade concessions while discouraging what it regards as economic menaces to American sovereignty.

What Do the Tariffs Include?

The new package of tariffs involves:

A 25% import duty on steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
A 20% tariff on virtually all other products from nations the US blames for trade deficits.
Duties on specific industries, like a 20% tariff on luxury goods from Europe like French cognac.

The breadth and intensity of these tariffs have rendered them uniquely disruptive to international trade patterns.

How Have European Markets Responded?

The initial effect of these tariffs has been a steep drop in European shares:

Germany's DAX dropped close to 5%
France's CAC 40 fell by 4.3%
Italy's FTSE MIB fell by 6.5%
The UK's FTSE 100 fell by 4.95%, with estimates of a further 2.4% fall, its worst decline since the pandemic

The selling is an indication of investor apprehension regarding the decrease in export demand, supply chain issues, and general economic slowdown.

Which Sectors Are Worst Affected?

A number of industries in Europe are taking a hit from the tariff war:

Luxury Goods: France's lucrative cognac industry, which earns over $3 billion annually from exports half of that from the US is already seeing a downturn. With a 20% tariff slapped on cognac, producers fear significant losses and are considering scaling back operations.
Automotive Sector: Europe’s auto industry is reeling from the 25% tariff on cars. German automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz are especially vulnerable, given their heavy reliance on the US market.
Steel and Manufacturing: European manufacturers are subject to increased input costs with new steel and aluminium duties, making their products less competitive in the world.

Broader Economic Impacts

Long-term harm is being warned about by analysts and central banks:

A blanket tariff of 25% would cut euro zone growth by 0.3 percentage points within a year, the European Central Bank says.
If Europe responds with the same tariffs, the overall effect could be a 0.5 percentage point decline in growth these are big numbers, particularly if the trade war intensifies.

Political and Diplomatic Consequences

European politicians are not sitting still. The European Commission is weighing retaliatory measures. These majors include puting a tariffs on as much as $28 billion in US imports everything from jewelry to raw materials. In a recent meeting, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer had discussed the implications of the US tariffs reaffirming a collective European position against protectionism.

Market Volatility and Investor Sentiment

Investor faith has been profoundly shaken. Markets worldwide have suffered increased volatility, with experts issuing a warning. The warning issued says that further escalation can plunge the world into a recession. The failure of any reconciliatory moves from Washington to stem the rout has added further to market uncertainty. The US tariffs are not merely a trade policy; they are a seismic shift in world economic relations. For Europe, the implications are immediate and dire stock market crashes, sectoral slowdowns, and threatened economic contraction. As the world holds its breath, the hope is that diplomatic dialogue can head off a full-blown trade war. stabilize world markets.

Crash on Dalal Street? These 3 Stocks Could Still Make You Big Money

April 7, 2025, 12:33 pm

In spite of the sudden market crash in equity markets prompted by global trade tensions, leading brokerage houses have found exciting opportunities in specific Indian stocks. Companies such as Antique, Emkay Global, and InCred Equities have published positive outlooks on Trent, Delhivery, and Ashok Leyland, highlighting their strong fundamentals, aggressive growth strategies, and beneficial industry dynamics. The Indian market crashed sharply on Monday in accordance with the international panic created by increasing trade tensions and recession fears. The BSE Sensex fell over 3,000 points, while the Nifty50 lost over 1,000 points, momentarily slipping below the key 22,000 mark within the initial 15 minutes of trade. However, amid turmoil, senior analysts are urging investors to take a step back and look at the larger picture and target quality stocks with robust growth prospects.

Antique Retains 'Buy' on Trent Even After Target Reduction

Antique Broking has reaffirmed its 'Buy' recommendation on Trent, reducing its target price to ₹6,801 from ₹7,363, still commanding an upside of 22% over the previously traded price of ₹5,561. The brokerage cut FY25–FY27 EPS estimates by 2% 10%, with Trent's 28% YoY Q4 revenue growth marginally short of expectations. Nonetheless, the store expansion continues unabated. Trent opened 130 new Zudio stores and 10 new Westside stores in Q4 alone. The majority of these were opened toward the end of the quarter, and Antique anticipates their full impact to be felt in Q1 FY26. "While the high base effect will moderate Trent's growth momentum in the near term, the company continues to be well-placed to strongly outperform its peers over the medium to long term," the brokerage added. The report also highlighted that Trent is expected to continue its aggressive growth trajectory with a strategy to open about 200 new Zudio stores within the next two years.

Emkay Sees 55% Upside in Delhivery After Ecom Express Acquisition.

Emkay Global has reiterated its 'Buy' recommendation on Delhivery with a target price of ₹400, which implies a 55% return from the current price of ₹258. The major in logistics recently hit the headlines by acquiring Ecom Express, the country's second-largest B2C 3PL player, for ₹14 billion. The acquisition makes Delhivery a market leader in the industry with a 55–60% market share in the B2C express logistics segment—more than double the size of its nearest rival. Together, the combined network already serves 97% of India's pin codes, positioning the company for major cost synergies in the next 12–18 months. Analysts also anticipate enhanced last-mile utilization, which represents about 50% of linehaul cost now, to further boost profitability after integration. Although the valuation seems compelling, the acquisition won't be short-term earnings accretive. Yet, given high customer overlap and experience with the Spoton acquisition, Emkay expects easier sales retention and network integration," the report said. The report, however, also pointed to issues related to Meesho insourcing logistics increasingly, which would affect volume growth in the short term.

InCred Recommends 'ADD' in Ashok Leyland, has a Target of ₹265

InCred Equities has provided Ashok Leyland with an 'ADD' rating and a target price of ₹265, which indicates a possible 29% increase from its previously traded price of ₹205. The brokerage views high growth potential in the medium and heavy commercial vehicle (MHCV) segment, specifically in the first half of FY25, due to a low base effect. This is likely to aid a 6% growth in FY26. Along with core commercial vehicle volume sales, Ashok Leyland is also gaining traction in diversifying its revenues. The company is stepping up its play on exports, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and spare parts, which is likely to cushion EBITDA volatility due to truck demand fluctuations. "With early demand recovery signs, InCred continues to remain bullish on the stock," the report continued.

Underlying Investment Themes Remains Unscathed

These tips are part of a wider optimism among analysts in some areas: fashion retail's speedy store roll-out, consolidation in the logistics market, and diversified automotive revenue streams. All of these spaces offer promising upside potential even amid near-term volatility. As global uncertainties continue to weigh on Indian markets, brokerage firms advise investors to target high-quality stocks with convincing long-term stories—such as Trent, Delhivery, and Ashok Leyland.

South Korean Stock Market Crashes to 17-Month Low

April 7, 2025, 12:29 pm

South Korean financial markets witnessed a dramatic fall on Monday. The benchmark KOSPI index tumbled to its lowest level in more than 17 months. Fears over U.S. tariffs, driven by President Donald Trump's policy decisions, caused the steep sell-off. This downturn affected not just South Korea but rippled through stock markets across Asia.

KOSPI Triggers Emergency Trading Halt

The KOSPI dropped 113.43 points, or 4.60%, reaching 2,351.99 by 0239 GMT. At one point, it had fallen as much as 5.6%, the worst performance since November 1, 2023. As a result, South Korea's stock exchange activated a sidecar trading curb. This mechanism temporarily halted algorithm-based program trading for five minutes. The last time this safety measure was triggered was on August 5, 2024, indicating the severity of the fall.

Asian Markets Mirror the Panic

Other Asian markets also faced heavy losses. MSCI’s index of Asia-Pacific shares, excluding Japan, dropped by over 3%. Markets in Hong Kong and Taiwan were hit hardest, each falling more than 9%. China’s stock indices sank over 5% in the same session. Japan’s Nikkei 225 dropped more than 6%, further deepening the regional crisis. Meanwhile, U.S. stock futures showed no signs of recovery after a two-day slump on Wall Street, adding more pressure.

Trump's Tariffs Fuel Fears of Recession

Investors fear that President Trump's trade strategy may push the global economy toward recession. The U.S. plans to implement a 25% tariff on South Korean imports starting Wednesday. These retaliatory measures, along with expected counteractions from other countries, have shaken confidence among international investors.

South Korea Announces Support Measures

To calm the situation, South Korea’s Finance Minister announced emergency plans. The government will offer financial support to industries that are facing immediate difficulties. The financial regulator also said it is prepared to activate a 100 trillion-won market stabilization fund to cushion the blow. Meanwhile, the Bank of Korea pledged to take steps to ensure market stability and prevent panic-driven crashes.

Analysts Expect High Volatility to Continue

Market analysts warned that the situation may remain unstable. Seo Sang-young, an analyst from Mirae Asset Securities, said, “Volatility will continue to remain elevated as Trump's tariffs and retaliatory measures from other countries are adversely affecting corporate earnings.” Many fear that as global trade tensions rise, companies may struggle to maintain profits.

Major Corporations Suffer Sharp Losses

Several of South Korea’s biggest companies recorded large losses. Samsung Electronics, the country’s top chipmaker, dropped 4.28%, its sharpest decline in over four months. SK Hynix, another major tech firm, slid 7.19%, its worst performance in two months. Car manufacturers also suffered. Hyundai Motor lost 4.95%, its steepest fall since October 2023. Kia Corp fell 4.01%. Battery makers, steel producers, and pharmaceutical firms also posted significant declines.

Foreign Investors Sell Off Stocks

Foreign investors continued their selling spree for the seventh day in a row. On Monday alone, they sold off shares worth 1.17 trillion won. This constant outflow is adding more pressure on local markets and weakening investor morale.

Korean Currency Weakens

The Korean won also lost ground. It traded at 1,468.2 per U.S. dollar — down 0.5% from the previous close. This also marked a 2.6% drop from Friday, when the currency had touched a five-week high. That earlier rise came after a court ruling upheld President Yoon Suk Yeol’s impeachment, which briefly reduced political uncertainty.

Default Risk Surges as CDS Spreads Widen

South Korea’s credit risk sharply increased on Monday. The spread on five-year credit default swaps (CDS), which measure the cost of insuring against default, widened to 49.83 basis points. This was up from 40.84 on Friday — the biggest single-day jump since March 2020 and the highest level since January 2023. The jump shows investors are becoming increasingly worried about the country’s financial health.

Bond Yields Drop to Multi-Year Lows

As investors moved to safer assets, bond yields fell. The three-year Korean treasury bond yield dropped by 4.8 basis points to 2.426%, the lowest since March 2022. The 10-year yield also declined by 7.2 basis points to 2.668%, a level not seen since December 2024. Falling yields indicate that investors expect interest rates to stay low or drop further amid economic uncertainty.

Indian Market Crash: ₹20 Lakh Crore Vanishes in 10 Seconds After Trump Drops Tariff Bomb

April 7, 2025, 12:13 pm

Indian equity markets crashed to a 10-month low on Monday morning, shaken by the blanket tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump. In the minutes after the opening bell, the Sensex plummeted by 3,939.68 points to hit 71,425.01, while Nifty dropped 1,160.8 points to close at 21,743.65. The sudden crash erased more than Rs 20 lakh crore of investor wealth, mirroring the panic in markets following Trump's hardline trade approach. The Sensex, which consists of the largest 30 firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), recovered slightly but was still more than 2,700 points behind at 10 am. Nifty, meanwhile, hovered just above 22,000. The rupee also felt the heat, opening 30 paise lower at 85.74 against the US currency.

Trump's Tariff Bombshell Jolts Markets

The market volatility is a result of a fresh round of tariffs imposed by President Trump. These levies on individual countries are meant to retaliate against what Trump refers to as "unfair" trade practices. Tariffs now go up to 50%, with India being hit with a 26% rate plus a global floor duty of 10%. These actions have unsettled the global investor community and caused shockwaves in Asian and emerging markets. In a defiant remark to the press, Trump had no apology for the market upheaval. "sometimes, you have to take medicines to fix up things," he said, justifying the tariffs as needed to revive American industries.

#WATCH | As the US stock markets tumbled after the imposition of retaliatory tariffs, US President Donald Trump says, "...I don't want anything to go down. But, sometimes, you have to take medicines to fix up things."
(Source - US Network Pool via Reuters) pic.twitter.com/kzeliFsu7r — ANI (@ANI) April 7, 2025

Experts Warn of Economic Fallout

Market analysts think the fallout is not so much about domestic factors and more about India's vulnerability to worldwide portfolio flows. They are calling for immediate financial reforms to shield the country from the domino effect of a global economic meltdown. India will be in the firing line, not because of homegrown issues but as a connected link in the cross-country portfolio flows. India will require a fiscal, monetary, and reform package to shield the home economy from this worldwide economic winter that is set to fasten," said Ajay Bagga, one of the popular market pundits, to ANI. SEBI-registered analyst Sunil Gurjar explained that the Nifty50 has already crossed its first support level and is moving towards the second, which is a point of concern in terms of a drawdown trend.

Asian Equities Hit Hardest

Asian markets suffered the most from the initial panic. China's benchmark indices dropped more than 4%, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng index crashed over 10%. Japan's Nikkei plummeted over 8% in early trading and closed 6.5% down. Taiwan's key index collapsed by almost 10%, while Singapore's fell over 8%. China has already retaliated with a 34% retaliatory tariff, aggravating tensions between the world's two biggest economies.

Wall Street Prepares for a Punch

New York Stock Exchange futures indicate a dismal morning when US markets resume. Wall Street is anticipated to reflect the Asian market debacle, further fueling apprehensions of a pending global downturn. "The market is free-falling again, breaking through floors. Trump's people aren't blinking. The tariffs are being viewed as a victory lap, not a bargaining chip," wrote Stephen Innes of SPI Asset Management. As panic mounts, investors and governments worldwide are racing to gauge the long-term consequences of an all-out trade war. For India, this international tempest represents a stern test of its economic resilience against external shocks.

‘Black Monday 2.0’: Trump’s Tariffs Trigger Global Stock Market Crash | TDG Explainer

April 7, 2025, 12:11 pm

Asian markets plunged on Monday, triggering fears of a second global stock market crash. The panic occured after US President Donald Trump's unexpected tariff declaration last week. Japan's Nikkei fell almost 9%. India's Nifty plummeted more than 1,000 points. South Korea's Kospi triggered a technical halt in trading. Some experts now worry that this may be a contemporary version of the 1987 "Black Monday" crash. Trump, however, is defiant. He claims this market pain is "medicine" for fixing trade deficits. So, are we looking at Black Monday 2.0?

Asian Markets React Sharply to Trump's Tariffs

Asian investors awoke to turmoil. Markets opened well in the red following Trump's April 2 tariff announcement, which became effective. Japan's Nikkei 225 plummeted over 8% shortly after the opening bell. The Topix index, broader in scope, declined over 7.5%. Large Japanese banks—Mitsubishi UFJ, Mizuho, and Sumitomo Mitsui—lost over 12% each. Shares of Honda and Nissan also crashed. South Korea's Kospi declined 4.4%. A circuit breaker was activated, suspending trade for a short while. Taiwan's Taiex dropped close to 10%. Heavyweights such as TSMC and Foxconn reached their daily limits. China's Shanghai Composite opened lower by 4.5% and continued to slide. It last traded 6.7% lower. The blue-chip CSI300 fell 7.5%. Hong Kong's Hang Seng opened lower by more than 9%. In Australia, the ASX 200 dropped over 6%. Over $160 billion of market value disappeared. New Zealand's NZX 50 declined 3.5%. The selling was indiscriminate and vicious. India was not spared either. The NSE Nifty50 plummeted over 1,000 points. BSE Sensex dropped close to 4,000 points in initial trading. Around the world, US stock futures declined dramatically as well. S&P 500 futures fell 4.2%, Dow Jones futures fell 3.5%, and Nasdaq futures declined 5.3%.

Trump's Position on Market Chaos

Despite the chaos, Trump held his ground. He waved off concerns of a crash. On Truth Social, he called it an "economic revolution." He told Americans to "hang tough." He called tariffs "a beautiful thing" that would correct years of trade abuse. "Sometimes you have to take medicine to cure something," Trump said, talking about the crash. On April 5, tariffs of 10% took effect. Steeper tariffs—11% to 50%—will become effective on April 9. Trump accused "Sleepy Joe" Biden of previous trade deficits. He promised to turn them around "quickly. Business leaders and economists raised red flags. Many warned that sudden policy shifts could slow growth, spark trade wars, and shake global investor confidence.

What Occurred on Black Monday in 1987?

The first Black Monday occurred on October 19, 1987. That day, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 22.6%. It is the largest one-day percentage decline in US history. The sell-off didn't remain in the US for long. It went global in hours. London's FTSE 100 dropped 25% that week. Japan's Nikkei fell over 13%. Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Amsterdam, and Sydney all got slammed.

So what triggered it?

Experts attributed a combination of program trading, overpriced stocks, and fears of rising interest rates. But most importantly, it demonstrated just how interdependent world markets had become. Thomas Thrall, an economist-turned-trader with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, remembered the day vividly. "It was very scary," he replied. "Folks began to realize the interconnectedness of the markets worldwide." What it took was concerted action from the Federal Reserve of the US Central banks reassured markets, and the system stabilized gradually.

Will Black Monday 2.0 Actually Happen?

It's not 1987. But indications are strangely similar. Jim Cramer recently warned about this. On his program, he told a 1987-style crash would be repeated if Trump did not negotiate with trading partners. "We will know it by Monday," he stated. He was not far behind. Markets have collapsed in Asia. US futures followed through. Panic selling has begun.

Is this Black Monday 2.0?

There are parallels. A policy shock. Panic selling. Circuit breakers. Global contagion. There are differences also . The 1987 crash was caused by market mechanics—algorithmic trading and valuation problems. This time, the cause is political—Trump's belligerent tariff policy. Another crucial difference is the central bank action. In 1987, the Fed moved decisively. Now, it's not yet known whether the Fed or any other large central bank will act. If tensions escalate and retaliation sets in, the harm can worsen. A second Black Monday may not resemble the first in all ways—but its damage could be equally devastating.

Investor Sentiment and Market Outlook

Investor sentiment is currently unstable. Most are withdrawing money from equities. Inflows are going towards gold, US Treasuries, and the dollar. Experts predict that earnings projections will decline. Export-oriented sectors such as tech and manufacturing might bear the worst hit. Goldman Sachs warned that firms with substantial debt levels will be vulnerable to cash flow crises. Markets can expect further volatilities as long as policy uncertainty persists. Fund managers are already redirecting strategies. Some are downscaling risk exposures. Others are hedging very aggressively, anticipating further turbulence. What follows is dependent on two things—how world markets respond over the next few days and if Trump changes his strategy. If not, volatility may intensify. And Black Monday 2.0 may not be just a figure of speech. It may become a reality. Trump's tariffs have triggered a worldwide sell-off. Markets around the world and in Asia are in a free fall. The specter of another Black Monday is not just a fear. It may not be an exact replica of 1987, but the warning signs are there. With trillions of dollars erased from world markets and no indication of a policy shift, governments and investors have to tread carefully. History doesn't repeat—but it does rhyme. And Black Monday 2.0 might already be upon us.

Historic US Market Crashes: From 1929 to the Pandemic Panic

April 7, 2025, 11:37 am

As 2025 begins with a shaky start for the stock market, American investors are starting to worry. The recent dip mainly happened after President Donald Trump supported global tariffs. At the same time, the economy has shown signs of slowing down.

Although markets often rise and fall, crashes are different. They cause steep drops across large parts of the market in just days. Moreover, experts find it nearly impossible to predict such crashes in advance.

Historically, the US has faced many dramatic crashes—from the Great Depression to the COVID-19 shock. Generally, a crash happens when stock prices drop by 20% or more within a short time.

Let’s look at five of the worst crashes in American history.

1. 1929 Crash – Trigger for the Great Depression

The stock market crash of 1929 remains the most devastating in US history. It followed the roaring success of the 1920s, a time when the economy boomed and stock prices soared. However, things changed drastically when markets suddenly collapsed.

Experts blame excessive borrowing, or leverage, for this crisis. Investors had poured in money they didn’t really own. When the bubble burst, it helped trigger the Great Depression, leading to mass unemployment and years of economic struggle.

2. Black Monday – October 19, 1987

On this day, the US market experienced its biggest single-day percentage loss. The Dow Jones Industrial Average plunged by 22.6%, or 508 points. Analysts mainly blamed computerized trading systems for the crash. These programs triggered massive sell-offs, creating panic. Still, the market managed to recover fully in less than two years.

3. Dot-Com Crash – 2000 to 2002

During the late 1990s, internet companies became the centre of a stock market boom. The NASDAQ index, filled with tech stocks, jumped from 1,000 in 1995 to over 5,000 by 2000. But the bubble didn’t last.

On March 10, 2000, the NASDAQ hit a peak of 5,048.62. Then it began to fall rapidly. By October 4, 2002, it dropped by almost 77% to 1,139.90. The crash exposed how overvalued many internet companies were. The NASDAQ didn’t recover to its earlier peak until nearly 15 years later.

4. 2008 Financial Crisis – Collapse of Subprime Mortgages

This crisis took shape after banks started giving risky home loans to people with poor credit scores. In 1999, Fannie Mae made mortgages easier to get. Many people borrowed more than they could afford.

At the same time, financial firms used cheap debt to boost their investment returns. As more people bought homes, prices soared. However, trouble started in March 2007 when Bear Stearns couldn’t handle its mortgage-related losses.

By September 2008, the major US indexes had fallen by almost 20%. On March 6, 2009, the Dow reached its lowest point—54% below its previous peak. It took four years for the market to bounce back fully.

5. COVID-19 Crash – February to March 2020

The global pandemic caused the most recent stock market crash. During the week of February 24, 2020, the Dow and S&P 500 dropped by 11% and 12%. These were the worst weekly losses since 2008.

On March 12, the Dow fell by 9.99%. Just a few days later, on March 16, it dropped another 12.9%. These were some of the biggest one-day losses ever.

However, this crash didn’t last long. The market recovered by May 2020. The quick rebound happened because of aggressive action. The Federal Reserve slashed interest rates and injected $1.5 trillion into the markets. Meanwhile, Congress passed a $2.2 trillion relief package to support the economy.

US Tariffs Shake Global Markets; Asia Takes Major Hit

April 7, 2025, 11:16 am

Stock markets across Asia fell sharply after US President Donald Trump imposed new import tariffs. Major indexes in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia opened with steep losses on Monday morning. By midday, Japan’s Nikkei 225 dropped 6%, South Korea’s Kospi fell 4.7%, and Australia’s ASX 200 declined by 4%.

In China, the Shanghai Composite Index plunged over 6%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and Taiwan’s Weighted Index each dropped around 10%. These markets had been closed on Friday for public holidays and were catching up with global losses seen late last week.

Trump’s Tariffs Spark Widespread Concern

President Trump recently announced sweeping 10% import duties on products from all countries. This includes key US trade partners such as China, the European Union, and Vietnam. The move triggered fears of a full-blown global trade war.

Many Asian economies depend heavily on exports. Therefore, Trump's tariffs have caused immediate concerns in the region. These countries not only produce large amounts of goods for global consumption but also rely on the US as a major customer.

Analysts Warn of Rising Risks

Market experts are sounding the alarm. Julia Lee from FTSE Russell said, “Tariffs are feeding into expectations around inflation and a recession.” Investment banks have already adjusted their economic forecasts.

Goldman Sachs raised the likelihood of a US recession in the next 12 months from 35% to 45%. JPMorgan went even further, predicting a 60% chance of both a US and global recession.

Qian Wang, chief economist for the Asia Pacific at Vanguard, added, “Asia is bearing the brunt of the US tariff hike. While there could be some room for negotiation, a new regime of higher tariffs is here to stay. This is negative to the global and Asia economy, especially those small open economies, both in the short term and long term.”

US and European Markets Also Tumble

The impact isn’t limited to Asia. On Friday, all three major US stock indexes closed more than 5% lower. The S&P 500 dropped nearly 6%, marking the worst week for Wall Street since 2020.

In the UK, the FTSE 100 dropped by almost 5%, its worst single-day fall in five years. Stock markets in France and Germany also experienced major declines.

Julia Lee warned the turmoil may not be over. “US futures trading lower point to another hard session on Wall Street tonight,” she noted.

Trillions Wiped from Global Markets

Since Trump made the announcement, stock markets worldwide have lost trillions of dollars in value. Investor confidence has plummeted amid fears of trade disruptions, rising prices, and slowing economic growth.

While some believe a negotiation is still possible, most analysts agree that the risk of long-term damage to the global economy is growing.

After Walmart, Amazon & McDonald’s Face US Boycotts: Dates & Reasons Explained

April 5, 2025, 11:40 pm

In a powerful display of economic protest, the People’s Union USA has launched a series of nationwide blackouts targeting top American corporations. This movement, gaining momentum after the recent Walmart boycott, is calling on citizens to push back against what organizers call the “corporate rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)” policies.

What’s Behind the Boycotts?

After President Donald Trump resumed office in January, his administration swiftly cut DEI programs on the federal level, prompting many private companies like Walmart, Amazon, Meta, and Lowe’s to follow suit. In response, activists have rolled out a strategic plan of economic resistance.

What Are the Upcoming Blackout Dates?

Here's a look at the schedule of upcoming brand-specific blackouts:

Walmart: April 7–14 and May 20–26
General Mills: April 21–28
Amazon: May 6–12
Target: June 3–9 (already under a 40-day Lent boycott)
McDonald’s: June 24–30

During these periods, the People’s Union USA is asking consumers to avoid all online and in-store purchases, app usage, subscription services, and affiliated brands.

The Walmart Boycott: A Test of Economic Power

The Walmart blackout, which starts on April 7, urges customers to completely avoid the retail giant’s supercenters, mobile apps, and online platforms. This follows February’s successful 24-hour blackout and March’s protests that extended to Nestlé and other major corporations. Organizers argue that corporate America has abandoned social responsibility in favor of aligning with Trump’s political agenda.

National Action Network to Launch New Boycott

Meanwhile, Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN) is planning to announce a new official boycott during its convention (April 2–5), calling on Americans to support companies like Costco, which continues to uphold DEI values.

What's the Bigger Picture?

The People’s Union and its supporters believe that these economic blackouts can send a strong message to corporate America: support diversity and inclusion—or face financial consequences. The movement is not just about boycotting brands—it's about reclaiming power.

Rial In Freefall: Iran Faces Currency Chaos As It Hits Record Low Amid US Sanctions

April 5, 2025, 6:13 pm

Iran's domestic currency, the rial, dropped to an all-time low on Saturday at 1,043,000 against the US dollar after the Persian New Year holidays. The latest devaluation is consistent with rising economic uncertainty following increased tensions with the United States and internal unrest. During the Nowruz celebration, restricted trade and closing of official exchange centers resulted in street trading on an informal basis, pushing the rial to more than 1 million per dollar. With the return to business, the rate fell even lower, and some traders in Tehran's Ferdowsi Street the nation's currency exchange center switched off electronic rate boards for being too volatile.

US Sanctions Deepen Economic Woes

The rial's fall has been compounded by new US sanctions in President Donald Trump's second term. Trump is reinstating his "maximum pressure" campaign with the aim of cutting Iran's oil exports and financial institutions in half. Trump's administration also restarted military campaigns against Iranian-linked groups in the region, including air raids against Houthi rebels in Yemen. The collapse of the currency is a stark reversal from the days of the 2015 nuclear agreement, when the rial was valued at 32,000 to the dollar. With Trump calling for new negotiations through a direct letter to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Iran has held firm on the offer of indirect talks.

Public and Political Backlash Intensifies

The deteriorating economy has pushed Iranians to safeguard their wealth through foreign currencies, gold, and digital assets. Rumors of rising gasoline prices and ongoing dissatisfaction over the mandatory hijab law have kept political tensions high. Reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has come under increasing pressure, including the March firing of Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati and the dismissal of Vice President Shahram Dabiri, who was criticized for going on a luxury cruise during nationwide austerity. The rial's collapse continues to put pressure on Iran's economy, with inflation, sanctions, and public discontent threatening further instability.

Trump’s Tariff Move Could Add 18 USD to Your Nike Shoes

April 5, 2025, 2:31 pm

US President Donald Trump launched a bold “reciprocal tariff” policy on Thursday. This move aims to penalize countries that charge high tariffs on American goods. However, the policy may hurt global brands like Nike, which rely on low-cost overseas manufacturing.

Expert Uses Nike to Explain the Impact

Deepak Shenoy, founder and CEO of CapitalMind, broke down the policy’s effect using Nike as an example.

In a post on X, Shenoy wrote, “Nike makes expensive shoes. It makes half of them in Vietnam, in a subsidiary that effectively costs them a fraction of what they sell these shoes at. This is the business model — own the brand and marketing — and keep manufacturing costs low. Most of the cost — ads, marketing, R&D, distribution — are in the US. The Vietnam thingy is a sidebar. It costs $18 in Vietnam to make a shoe that sells for $115.”

https://twitter.com/deepakshenoy/status/1908044689967620301

Nike’s business model focuses on brand-building and marketing in the US. Manufacturing takes place abroad to cut costs. Even with a 46% tariff on Vietnamese imports, Shenoy estimated the increase per shoe would be about $8.28. That’s less than a 10% jump. So, Nike could raise the price of a $115 shoe to $124 and still remain profitable.

Tariffs Could Backfire on Americans

Shenoy warned the new tariffs could backfire. He said American consumers might end up paying more in the long run. He posted on X, “There isn’t even a need for retaliation, honestly. Let Americans pay for this for a while and see how it pans out.”

He called the US tariff move “very aggressive” and raised concerns about global market reactions. “I suppose it’s not crazy if all central banks dump the US dollar and move to euro bonds or JPY for reserves. No point using USD as currency any longer since they won’t import from you meaningfully. Things will change slowly but surely,” he added.

Stocks Fall After Tariff Announcement

Soon after Trump’s announcement, stocks of major apparel brands dropped. On Wednesday, the US imposed steep new tariffs: 46% on Vietnam, 49% on Cambodia, 34% on China, and 32% on Indonesia.

These countries are major production hubs for top American brands.

Nike and Adidas have invested heavily in Vietnam. Today, Vietnam produces about half of Nike’s shoes and nearly 40% of Adidas shoes. Together, these exports bring in more than $20 billion a year.

But markets reacted quickly. Nike’s stock fell 7.3% in after-hours trading. Lululemon, which makes 40% of its goods in Vietnam, saw an 11% drop. Gap, which sources 27% of its products from Vietnam, also lost 11%. Abercrombie & Fitch dipped but recovered later.

Real-World Price Hikes on the Horizon

According to the New York Post, a 46% tariff could add $18 to the cost of Air Jordan 1 High sneakers. These shoes currently sell for $180.

Other popular Nike models could see prices rise by $15 to $35. A UBS report said consumers may face a 10% to 12% hike on Vietnamese imports.

For example, the Nike Air Force 1 sells for $115. It costs $18 to manufacture in Vietnam. With the new tariff, each pair would now cost Nike $26.28. Since one container can carry 8,000 shoes, the overall increase in shipping costs would be massive.

Trump’s New Tariffs Trigger 6 Trillion USD Market Crash, China Hits Back

April 5, 2025, 10:01 am

US stock markets dropped sharply after President Donald Trump announced new reciprocal tariffs on April 2. This marked the worst financial fall since the COVID-19 pandemic. Wall Street faced its second straight day of heavy losses.

Markets React Sharply

Trump’s decision sparked fears of a global recession. As a result, the Dow Jones fell by 5.5%, and the S&P 500 dropped by 5.97% on Friday. According to AFP, the crash erased nearly $6 trillion. Most of this loss came from Americans’ investment and retirement savings.

Trump Dismisses Concerns

Despite the turmoil, Trump defended his move. He said the situation offered a chance to make money. On Truth Social, he posted, “To the many investors coming into the United States and investing massive amounts of money, my policies will never change. This is a great time to get rich—richer than ever before!!!”

Promises to Boost the Economy

Moreover, Trump claimed the tariffs would strengthen the US economy. He insisted that large companies supported his plan. He stated, “Big business is not worried about the Tariffs, because they know they are here to stay, but they are focused on the BIG, BEAUTIFUL DEAL, which will SUPERCHARGE our Economy. Very important. Going on right now!!!”

Trump also argued that the tariffs would push companies to manufacture goods in the United States. According to him, this would help create more jobs. However, for now, this goal remains distant.

China Strikes Back

In response, China announced a 34% tariff on US goods. This will take effect on April 10. Trump reacted strongly, writing, “China played it wrong, they panicked -- the one thing they cannot afford to do!”

Not stopping there, China said it would file a complaint at the World Trade Organization. Additionally, it restricted exports of rare earth metals such as samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium. These elements are critical for high-end medical and tech industries.

US Heavily Dependent on Chinese Metals

This move puts US industries at risk. A Bloomberg report stated that from 2020 to 2023, 70% of US rare earth imports came from China, based on USGS data.

Global Recession Fears Grow

Finally, the impact of these tariffs has gone beyond US borders. Global markets also reacted negatively, increasing the risk of a recession. According to the International Monetary Fund, a recession refers to a decline in economic activity. Most experts define it as two consecutive quarters of falling inflation-adjusted GDP. Very short declines do not count as recessions.

Cash App Users Can Get Up to $2,500 – How to Claim Your Share?

April 4, 2025, 6:20 pm

The Cash App Settlement 2025 will pay affected users for fraudulent transactions and data breaches. If you submit a claim through November 18, 2024, you can get up to $2,500 in out-of-pocket compensation. The $15 million fund will also pay for wasted time spent resolving issues caused by fraud. The complaint alleged Cash App to have not secured the users' data, and as a result, users incurred financial loss and unauthorized account breaches. Damages between August 23, 2018, and August 20, 2024, are covered by eligible claims. If your account suffered, monitoring your payout is essential.

How to Check Your Cash App Settlement 2025 Status?

Remaining updated will ensure that you get your payout without any delays. Here's what you need to do: - Dial the settlement administrator at +1-866-615-9740. Keep your Claimant ID or Confirmation Code handy to verify. - Go to the official website for real-time status of claims, payout schedules, and documents needed. - Look out for email updates. The settlement administrator will inform you about payment schedules or missing information. - Keep an eye on your bank account if you chose direct deposit, PayPal, or Zelle. Processing may take time.

Payout Breakdown: How Much Will You Receive?

The Cash App Settlement 2025 provides monetary compensation based on financial loss. Here's what you can claim: - Out-of-Pocket Losses: Those who lost money to fraud can receive up to $2,500. Proof of loss includes bank statements, reports of fraud, or receipts. - Lost Time Compensation: If you wasted time securing your account, you can claim $25 an hour, up to $75 for three hours. - Transaction Losses: Individuals with unauthorized transactions within the claim period can receive a portion of the settlement. Police reports or bank notices are needed. The Cash App Settlement 2025 is designed to assist users in recovering from financial losses. With payments imminent, monitoring your claim guarantees you receive what you're owed. Stay updated, follow the process, and monitor your payout status regularly.

Piyush Goyal Scoops Controversy With ‘Ice Cream or Chips’ Comment on Startups

April 4, 2025, 3:36 pm

Union Minister Piyush Goyal recently raised questions about the direction and direction of India's startup environment, triggering a big controversy in the sector. Addressing a public forum, Goyal had stated that Indian startups were more interested in food delivery, betting, and fantasy sports, whereas Chinese startups were leading the way in electric vehicles, battery technology, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence. "Do we have to produce ice cream or chips? Dukaandari hi karna hai (Do we just want to do shopkeeping?)," Piyush Goyal asked, underlining the imperative for innovation in core technologies rather than gig economy models.

Mohandas Pai Slams Remarks of Piyush Goyal

Responding quickly, Mohandas Pai, former CFO of Infosys and a prominent investor, labelled Goyal's remarks as useless. "These are poor comparisons. India has startups in all those areas, too, but they are small. Minister @PiyushGoyal should not demean our start-ups but reflect on what he has done as our Minister to enable deep tech start-ups to scale up in India." Pai wrote on X.

Minister @PiyushGoyal there are very many small deep tech start ups in Chip design , IOT, Robotics, EV charging,BMS in India, growing rapidly but where is the capital? Indian start ups got 160b $ from 2014/24, China 845b$, US 2.3Tr$. Long term investors like endowments ,… https://t.co/SdLKHMlRuf
— Mohandas Pai (@TVMohandasPai) April 3, 2025

He additionally criticised the financial and regulatory structures of India. "We have an aggressive @FinMinIndia @nsitharaman who bullied start-ups on Angel tax for decades. Do not let endowments invest; insurance cos still do not invest while doing so overseas. @RBI intimidates foreign investors on remittances and AIFs again and again, mistreats them, cos FE rules. China invested 845 billion dollars between 2014 and 2024. India, just 160 billion dollars! Why is Minister @PiyushGoyal @AshwiniVaishnaw not working to address these problems?" he demanded.

Politicians Should Get a Reality Check, Ashneer Grover Demands

Ashneer Grover, who is the co-founder of BharatPe, didn't have kind words for the politicians either. "The only individuals in India who require a 'reality check' are its politicians. Everybody else is staying in the definitive reality of India," he commented on social media. Grover has come in defense of the natural evolution of the Indian startup ecosystem, saying, "China also had food delivery first and then evolved to deep tech. It's great to aspire for what they've done - maybe time for politicians to aspire for 10% plus economic growth rate for 20 years flat before chiding today's job creators. Maybe time to change 'public discourse from history to science!

The only people in India who need a ‘reality check’ are it’s politicians. Everyone else is living in the absolute reality of India.
China also had food delivery first and then evolved to deep tech. It’s great to aspire for what they’ve done - maybe time for politicians to aspire… pic.twitter.com/6WT8moviAz — Ashneer Grover (@Ashneer_Grover) April 4, 2025

Zepto Founder Defends Consumer Startups in India

Aadit Palicha, Zepto's co-founder and CEO, also reacted vehemently. He accepted the criticism but pointed out how consumer internet startups are vital to the economy. It's easy to snap at Indian consumer internet startups, particularly if you contrast them with the profound technical distinction being established in the US/China. The truth is this: there are nearly 1.5 lakh actual human beings earning livelihoods on Zepto today," Palicha said.

It is easy to criticise consumer internet startups in India, especially when you compare them to the deep technical excellence being built in US/China. Using our example, the reality is this: there are almost 1.5 Lakh real people who are earning livelihoods on Zepto today - a…
— Aadit Palicha (@aadit_palicha) April 3, 2025

He referred to Zepto's key contributions—paying more than ₹1,000 crore in tax each year, drawing more than a billion dollars of FDI, and deeply investing in India's supply chain, particularly for fresh produce. "If that's not a miracle in Indian innovation, I sincerely don't know what is," he said.

Why Consumer Internet Startups Matter for Deep Tech

Palicha argued that large internet companies often pave the way for deeper tech innovations. “Most technology-led innovation over the past two decades has originated from consumer internet companies. Who scaled cloud computing? Amazon. Who are the big players in AI today? Facebook, Google, Alibaba, Tencent – all started as consumer internet companies,” he explained. He added that businesses such as Zepto can be the foundation for the future generation of Indian innovation if supported accordingly. "Zepto is still a long way from being a great Internet company that can hold a candle to the world's best. But we are working day in and day out to get there," Palicha said.

Startup India: Growth, Unicorns, and Hurdles Ahead

India has close to 20,000 startups, of which there are approximately 4,750 tech-based startups, as per the Startup India platform. The nation has 110 unicorns, but the pace of new unicorn formation has significantly decreased. MoneyView was the last startup to join the unicorn club in September 2024, with a mere five new unicorns in that year. As the sector keeps expanding, recent remarks by Piyush Goyal have once again sparked a critical debate regarding the future trajectory, policy backing, and promise of India's dynamic startup ecosystem.

Amazon Joins Bidding War for TikTok’s US Operations

April 4, 2025, 2:40 pm

Major companies are rushing to buy TikTok’s US operations as the April 5 deadline approaches. The US wants ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent, to sell its American unit. However, TikTok has repeatedly said it’s not for sale. At the same time, China is likely to block any deal involving TikTok’s algorithm.

Amazon’s Surprise Move

Recently, Amazon entered the race with an unexpected bid. The company sent a formal letter to US Vice President JD Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Clearly, Amazon sees TikTok as a powerful force in online shopping.

Moreover, TikTok’s short videos drive shopping trends. Many influencers promote Amazon products through TikTok and earn money from affiliate links.

Even so, experts don’t consider Amazon a top bidder. Earlier, the company launched a TikTok-like shopping tool called Inspire, but it failed. Although Amazon’s interest drew attention, insiders believe its bid may not succeed.

TikTok Holds Its Ground

Meanwhile, TikTok insists it’s not for sale. In addition, the Chinese government will likely block any deal involving TikTok’s algorithm. This makes a full sale extremely difficult.

Who Else Is Competing?

Apart from Amazon, many other big players want to buy TikTok’s US business. Some bring strong financial backing, while others promise privacy or innovation.

Private Equity and Tech Giants

Blackstone Group: The firm may join forces with Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic. These firms already own shares in ByteDance.
Oracle: The tech giant currently stores TikTok’s US data. Co-founder Larry Ellison suggested Oracle could take a 50% stake in the American division.
Andreessen Horowitz: This venture capital firm may partner with Oracle for a joint bid.
Perplexity AI: Backed by Jeff Bezos, the startup proposed a merger. However, details remain vague.

Investors and Entrepreneurs

Project Liberty: Former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt leads this bid. He promises to protect privacy and data security. His backers include Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, investor Kevin O’Leary, and web inventor Tim Berners-Lee.
Jesse Tinsley (Employer.com): He made an all-cash offer of $30 billion. His group includes Roblox co-founder David Baszucki and YouTuber MrBeast.

New and Unusual Bidders

As the deadline nears, more unexpected names have entered the race:

Zoop: Co-founded by OnlyFans founder Tim Stokely, Zoop teamed up with blockchain investor The Hbar Foundation to make a bid.
AppLovin: Backed by casino mogul Steve Wynn, the firm showed interest in buying TikTok.
Bobby Kotick: The former Activision CEO may want to add gaming to TikTok’s mix.
Rumble: The video platform, often used by conservative creators, wants to buy TikTok and also offer cloud services.
Walmart: The retail giant previously tried to acquire TikTok in 2020. Now, it’s back in the discussion.
Steven Mnuchin: The former US Treasury Secretary is reportedly exploring a bid, though his plan remains unclear.

Can a Sale Actually Happen?

Despite all the bids, a sale might not go through. ByteDance has refused to sell TikTok’s US unit. On top of that, China would oppose any deal involving the platform’s algorithm.

Previously, Chinese authorities introduced laws to block the transfer of certain technologies. So, even if the US demands a sale, China can stop it.

At the same time, the US government insists TikTok must be sold. Officials claim the app poses national security risks. They fear China could access American user data or manipulate content.

Still, any attempt to force a sale could face legal and diplomatic hurdles. US President Donald Trump acknowledged the interest in the app. He said, “We have a lot of potential buyers. There’s tremendous interest in TikTok… I’d like to see TikTok remain alive.”

In conclusion, only ByteDance can decide whether a sale will happen. Even if the US government bans the app, the final call lies with the Chinese tech giant.

Recession Ahead? Trump’s Tariffs Crash Markets, Shock Global Economy

April 4, 2025, 11:46 am

US President Donald Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs have sparked recession fears and international economic turmoil. Announced on April 2, 2025, they put a minimum 10% duty on all imports, much higher rates on major trade partners. Markets dipped, inflation worries mounted, and analysts cautioned of delayed growth, reduced consumer spending, and potential retaliation from major economies.

Fitch Warns of Recession Risks

Fitch Ratings warned that steep tariff increases may plunge the US into recession and decelerate world growth. The effective tariff rate (ETR) is currently 20% on EU imports and 54% on Chinese imports. Other Asian countries also bear high duties—Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), Taiwan (32%), India (26%), South Korea (25%), Malaysia (24%), and Japan (24%). These rates are much higher than Fitch's earlier estimates of 15% for the EU and 35% for China. Fitch now predicts the aggregate US ETR to reach 25%, the highest since more than a century ago. This rise will most likely pull US growth down below the previous projection of 1.7% for 2025. Consumer confidence is weakening, and spending is decelerating, which is an indicator of economic weakness. Higher tariffs will raise consumer prices and reduce corporate profits. Companies hit with increased import costs could lay off workers, while inflation-pinched consumers cut back on buying. With these forces building, the Federal Reserve might be reluctant to slash interest rates, further slowing growth.

Stock Markets Crash as Investors Respond

Markets plummeted following the tariff announcement. On April 3, the S&P 500 fell 4.8%, wiping out more than $2 trillion—the largest one-day decline since March 2020. The Dow fell over 1,200 points, and the Nasdaq dropped 5.1%. Stocks and retail got particularly hammered. Apple, Amazon, and Nike dipped sharply as investors prepared for the increased cost of goods and the reduced demand. Experts have forewarned higher tariffs, explaining that the tariffs will lead to higher-priced merchandise, thereby slicing purchasing power as well as hampering economic activity.

World Ripple Effects and Intensifying Uncertainty

The effects are not just limited to the US Asian and European economies also fell as trade war concerns increased. Although some Latin American nations may experience small trade benefits, Fitch warned the broad-based nature of these tariffs will tend to reverse any gains. Large US trading partners can retaliate with their own tariffs, further destabilizing international trade. If China and the EU retaliate, it could increase inflation and exacerbate supply chain disruptions. With potential retaliation, market volatility, and an escalating trade war, global uncertainty looms. Investors and businesses brace for further economic shocks as the full effects of these tariffs unfold.

Who is Poonam Gupta? Meet RBI’s Newly Appointed Deputy Governor

April 3, 2025, 6:02 pm

Respected economist and erstwhile World Bank and IMF official Poonam Gupta becomes RBI's Deputy Governor, bringing in international know-how to India's economy. In a significant development, the Indian government has appointed renowned economist Poonam Gupta as the new Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a three-year term. With decades of experience in international finance and economic policymaking, Gupta’s appointment comes at a crucial time, just days before the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting scheduled for April 7-9.

डॉ. पूनम गुप्ता को उप गवर्नर, भारतीय रिज़र्व बैंक के रूप में नियुक्त किया गया Dr. Poonam Gupta appointed as Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of Indiahttps://t.co/2CuOLyVJ2N
— ReserveBankOfIndia (@RBI) April 3, 2025

Presently, she is the Director General of the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), a prominent economic policy think tank. She succeeds Michael Patra, a seasoned central banker who was the Deputy Governor from January 2020 to January 2025.

Who is Poonam Gupta? A Look at Her Journey

Poonam Gupta has significant experience in economic policy, international finance, and macroeconomic stability. She has headed research on central banking, public debt, economic growth, and state finances as the director of NCAER. Her background in these fields makes her an important figure in advising India's financial policies at the RBI. Before joining NCAER in 2021, Gupta served in senior positions at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank for almost two decades. While working in Washington, DC, she worked on economic policies for emerging markets, developing a profound understanding of global finance. She has also been a part of government advisory committees in India, being a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister and convener of the Advisory Council to the 16th Finance Commission. Her work also included India's G20 Presidency, where she was the chairperson of the Task Force on Macroeconomics and Trade.

Academic and Research Contributions

Gupta's academic experience is also of a high caliber. She has worked at top-ranking institutions like the Delhi School of Economics and the University of Maryland (USA) and was a visiting faculty at the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Delhi. She has also served in leadership roles as RBI Chair Professor at the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) and the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER). A prolific writer, Gupta has published close to 50 research papers, several of which have appeared in leading international journals such as The Economist, The Financial Times, and The Wall Street Journal. She co-authored a book on India and China with economist Barry Eichengreen and was awarded the EXIM Bank award in 1998 for her research acumen. Poonam Gupta is academically qualified with a PhD in Economics, majoring in macroeconomics, international finance, and trade. She also has a dual master's degree in Economics from the University of Maryland and Delhi School of Economics, as well as a bachelor's degree from Hindu College, University of Delhi.

Challenges Ahead: Inflation, Economic Growth, and Policy Reforms

Gupta's appointment occurred at a moment when India had serious economic issues. The economy, while having been estimated to have expanded 6.5% in the fiscal year ending March 31, still lags behind the 9.2% expansion seen in the last fiscal year. At the same time, inflationary pressure and geopolitical risks remain on the horizon. She has spoken out for a re-examination of India's inflation-targeting system. In a column after a rate reduction in February, she said, "RBI has been pursuing an old inflation figure and has frequently missed its projection by a wide margin. Inflation expectations of households have continued to be misaligned, and monetary policy transmission has not picked up sufficiently." In another column in March, she wrote that the RBI must not indulge in undue exchange rate volatility but that the rupee must be allowed to move more freely than previously. Her views will be important as the MPC sits next week to debate monetary policy actions.

Strengthening the RBI Leadership

With the appointment of Gupta, the RBI has four Deputy Governors, in addition to M Rajeshwar Rao, T Rabi Sankar, and Swaminathan J. Her inclusion adds a worldwide angle to the central banking system of India, as consistent with the changing financial landscape of the nation. Her deep expertise in macroeconomics, along with her extensive research and advisory experience, makes her a formidable force in shaping India's monetary policy. As the country embarks on economic revival, Gupta's views will play a crucial role in tackling inflation, maintaining financial stability, and guiding growth-driven reforms.

Markets Plunge After Trump’s Tariff Shock: Apple, Nike, Nvidia Tank

April 3, 2025, 4:24 am

US stock markets plummeted after President Donald Trump unveiled steep tariffs on imports, sparking fears of a global trade war.

Dow Jones fell 751 points (-1.8%)
S&P 500 futures dropped 3%
Nasdaq-100 futures plunged 3.8%

Biggest Losers: Tech & Retail Giants Hit Hard

The after-hours market sell-off saw major tech and retail companies suffer significant losses:

Nike: -7%
Apple: -6%
Nvidia: -4%
Tesla: -5%
Gap: -12%
Five Below: -11%
Ralph Lauren: -5%
Estée Lauder: -3.5%

Why Did Markets Crash?

Trump's executive order imposed at least a 10% tariff on nearly all imports, but many key trade partners face far higher rates. Countries like China (34%) and Taiwan (32%)—both vital for tech supply chains—were among the hardest hit, causing a sell-off in semiconductor and technology stocks.

Global Impact: Asian Markets React

US market turmoil extended to Asian markets, with ETFs linked to major economies dropping:

MSCI India ETF: -2.8%
MSCI Japan ETF: -3.2%
MSCI China ETF: -2.4%

Wall Street Reacts: ‘Worse Than Expected’

Market analysts say the uncertainty and complexity of Trump’s tariffs spooked investors.

"The level of new tariffs is worse than feared and not priced into the market," said Art Hogan, Chief Market Strategist at B Riley Wealth.

"At first, futures rallied when Trump mentioned a 10% baseline. But when he announced higher tariffs, markets tanked," added Chris Zaccarelli of Northlight Asset Management.

What’s Next? More Market Turbulence?

With global supply chains under threat and uncertainty around US trade policy, analysts predict further stock market volatility in the coming days.

Nasdaq Falls 12%: Trump’s Return Fuels Inflation and Trade Fears

April 1, 2025, 6:12 pm

Since Donald Trump's return to the White House, the Nasdaq has dipped 12.44%. The S&P 500 fell 7.23%, and Bitcoin dropped 21%. Increasing inflation and uncertainty about Trump's trade policies have unnerved investors, sending the Nasdaq into a tailspin.

Nasdaq Experiences a Harsh Plunge: What's Driving the Drop?

The Nasdaq Composite has experienced the steepest decline among the major indices, declining 12.44% since Trump took office in January. The Nasdaq closed at 12,799.29 on March 31, down from 19,756.78 on January 21 — a day after Trump's inauguration. Although other major indices such as the S&P 500 and Dow Jones declined, the Nasdaq, which is heavily weighted in tech, has been most susceptible to inflation concerns and Trump's unpredictable trade policies. Investors at first received Trump's return warmly with hopes of a pro-business, low-tax setup. However, increased inflation, supply chain disturbance, and trepidation around a trade war soon took a backseat to such expectations. The tech world, particularly the businesses in semiconductors, e-commerce, and software, has hit its worst with valuations significantly declining. Trump's trade orientation and tariff scares are also worrisome to investors, increasing pressure on the market further. Analysts explain that Trump policies might be fueling the aggravation of challenges tech firms had been experiencing through supply chain concerns, increased costs of raw materials, and squeezing labor markets. The mix of increased production prices and political insecurity has driven the downturn.

Cryptocurrency Market Bleeds Due to Volatility

Cryptocurrencies, the shining star of Trump's business-friendly policy, have also not escaped. Bitcoin hit a record high of $106,000 after Trump's comeback but has since fallen 21.2% to around $83,400. Ethereum has fallen 43.28%, from $3,269.74 to $1,854.51 during the same timeframe. The crypto crash is part of a broader pattern of market flux. With rising fear of inflation and uncertain trade policy, investors are withdrawing from volatile assets such as stocks and cryptocurrencies. Instead, they are transferring to secure assets such as government bonds, thereby infusing even more volatility in global markets. Experts point out that together, increasing inflation and trade uncertainty might prolong the decline in the market, making even conventional stocks and digital currencies susceptible.

Stock Market Sees Heavy Losses on First Trading Day of the Financial Year

April 1, 2025, 1:16 pm

The new financial year began with a sharp decline on Dalal Street, as bearish trends dominated the market. On April 1, benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty 50 suffered significant losses, driven by a sharp sell-off in banking and IT stocks.

Sensex and Nifty Decline Sharply

By 11:40 AM on Tuesday, the BSE Sensex plunged 1,189.29 points, or 1.54%, reaching 76,225.63. The broader Nifty 50 index also faced a downturn, dropping 306.6 points, or 1.3%, to hover around 23,212.75. In both indices, major banking and IT stocks led the decline. Shares of Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, Bajaj Finance, Infosys, and HCL Tech emerged as the top losers, dragging the overall market sentiment lower.

Trump’s Tariff Plans Weigh on Investor Sentiment

Investor confidence remained weak due to concerns over former US President Donald Trump’s planned reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2, a move he has labeled as “Liberation Day” for the US. The US has already imposed tariffs on key trade partners, including Canada, Mexico, and China. Additionally, new duties are expected on automobiles, steel, aluminum, copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and lumber. Commenting on the market reaction, Dr. VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Investments Limited, stated, “If the tariffs are lower than feared, the market could witness a rally, especially in externally linked sectors like pharmaceuticals and IT. However, if the tariffs are severe, another round of market downturn could follow. Investors should wait and watch before reacting to the final details.”

Foreign Investors Exit While Domestic Investors Buy

On March 28, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) continued their selling spree, offloading equities worth Rs 4,352 crore. Meanwhile, Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) extended their buying trend for the second straight day, purchasing stocks worth Rs 7,646 crore.

Rupee Weakens Against the US Dollar

The Indian rupee depreciated further, losing 32 paise to reach 85.47 against the US dollar in early trade. At the same time, the dollar index, which measures the greenback’s strength against six major global currencies, declined by 0.14%, settling at 104.04. With global uncertainties and trade concerns weighing on sentiment, market volatility is expected to persist in the near term.

Social Media 2.0? Musk’s xAI Acquires X: Here’s What’s Coming Next!

March 29, 2025, 8:49 am

Elon Musk has announced a major merger between his artificial intelligence startup, xAI, and social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). The all-stock deal, valued at $45 billion, includes $12 billion in debt and places xAI’s valuation at $80 billion, while X is now valued at $33 billion.

A Bold Move to Merge AI and Social Media

Musk, the world’s richest man and a close ally of Donald Trump, revealed the acquisition on Friday, stating that the future of xAI and X is “intertwined.” He emphasized that the merger will enable the companies to share data, computing power, distribution, and top talent. “The combined company will deliver smarter, more meaningful experiences to billions of people while staying true to our core mission of seeking truth and advancing knowledge,” Musk wrote in a post on X. He added that this new venture would not only reflect the world but actively accelerate human progress.

Musk’s Vision for the Future of X

Musk’s xAI was founded in 2023 and has rapidly grown, securing $6 billion in funding and reaching a $40 billion valuation. His long-term vision includes integrating AI-powered features into X, transforming it into a next-generation platform that offers enhanced user experiences and intelligent interactions. Musk, who also leads the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and serves as Tesla’s CEO, expressed gratitude to his teams at xAI and X for their dedication in making the deal a reality. “This is just the beginning,” he stated.

Potential Impact of the xAI-X Merger on Users

1. Enhanced User Experiences

Musk has stated that the integration of xAI's cutting-edge AI capabilities with X’s vast user base of over 600 million will lead to more intelligent and engaging interactions, improving content discovery and user engagement.

2. AI-Driven Features

The merger is expected to introduce AI-powered functionalities such as personalized content recommendations, AI-generated posts, and improved moderation tools to refine the user experience.

3. Data Privacy Concerns

While the merger promises innovation, experts warn that increased AI-driven data collection could raise privacy concerns. Analysts predict that user data will be leveraged to train AI models, potentially impacting user security.

4. Transforming X into an ‘Everything App’

Musk has frequently discussed his vision of turning X into a multifaceted platform encompassing social media, finance, and AI-driven services. This acquisition is a significant step toward realizing that goal.

5. A New Era of AI-Social Media Integration

Industry experts suggest that the collaboration between xAI and X could set new standards for AI applications in social media, leading to unprecedented advancements in user engagement and digital communication.

The Road Ahead

This merger comes months after Musk, alongside a consortium, attempted to acquire OpenAI for $97.4 billion—an offer that was ultimately rejected. Now, with xAI and X under a single umbrella, Musk is pushing forward with his ambition to revolutionize the intersection of artificial intelligence and digital communication. As the tech world watches closely, Musk’s latest move could redefine the landscape of AI-driven social media, marking the dawn of a new era in digital interaction.

India’s Economic Boom: A Game-Changer for Real Estate Growth

March 28, 2025, 4:19 pm

India is undergoing a historic economic transformation, with its GDP doubling in just a decade and poised to surpass Japan’s (Source: IMF, World Bank). This momentum is not just a number, it signifies a massive shift in urban infrastructure, job creation, and, most importantly, real estate expansion. As the economy grows, real estate will contribute exponentially, shaping the future of urban living and investment.

Real Estate

A Pillar of India’s Economic Ascent With India projected to become a USD 33 trillion economy by 2047 (Source: Economic Survey of India 2023), the real estate sector is set to reach a staggering USD 5.8 trillion, contributing over 15% to the national GDP (Source: NITI Aayog, Knight Frank Report 2023). This growth is not confined to metropolitan hubs but is expanding across emerging urban corridors, driven by infrastructure upgrades, demographic shifts, and evolving lifestyle aspirations.

Surging Residential Demand

A Nation in Transition As economic prosperity expands, so does the demand for housing. Over the next 25 years, an estimated 230 million housing units will be required to accommodate urbanization (Source: JLL India, CRISIL Report). Cities and fast-developing regions are seeing an increasing preference for premium housing, integrated townships, and sustainable communities that cater to modern living needs. The rising middle class and millennial workforce are fueling demand for better-planned, well-connected residential spaces.

Infrastructure & Connectivity

The Catalyst for Growth The rapid expansion of infrastructure is setting the foundation for real estate growth. Mega projects like industrial corridors, expressways, and metro expansions are unlocking new investment hotspots. Government-backed initiatives such as PM Gati Shakti and the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) are accelerating connectivity, enhancing accessibility, and raising property values in both established and emerging urban centers (Source: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, India Infrastructure Report 2023).

Gurugram

A Leading Growth Hub Gurugram continues to be a key driver of real estate expansion, with micro-markets like Dwarka Expressway, Southern Peripheral Road (SPR), and South of Gurugram emerging as prime investment destinations. These areas are witnessing a surge in demand due to superior connectivity, commercial growth, and premium residential developments. The upcoming Dwarka Expressway is set to enhance accessibility to Delhi, while SPR is evolving into a business and lifestyle corridor. Meanwhile, South of Gurugram is attracting attention for its mid-income and premium offerings and green surroundings, making it a preferred choice for homebuyers and investors alike (Source: ANAROCK Property Consultants, JLL India Report 2023).

Technology & Sustainability

The Future of Real Estate Innovation is reshaping real estate dynamics. Proptech, AI-driven property management, and smart home automation are becoming standard features in new developments. Additionally, the push for green-certified, sustainable projects is gaining momentum, aligning with global trends in energy efficiency and environmental consciousness (Source: IGBC, RICS India Report 2023). These advancements are setting new benchmarks for the real estate sector, ensuring long-term value for homebuyers and investors. A Transformative Decade Ahead As India's economic trajectory continues upward, real estate will remain a cornerstone of national growth. With rapid urbanization, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a shift toward sustainability, the sector is not just keeping pace but setting new global standards. Whether in established metros or emerging hubs, India's real estate market is on the brink of an unprecedented era of expansion, making now the perfect time to invest in the future of urban living.

Gold Prices Surge to Record High as Tariff Concerns Fuel Economic Uncertainty

March 28, 2025, 2:04 pm

Gold prices soared to an all-time high on Friday as concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's latest tariff plans sparked fears of a global trade war. Investors turned to the precious metal as a safe-haven asset, pushing spot gold up 0.6% to $3,073.79 an ounce. Earlier in the session, it hit a record $3,077.44. U.S. gold futures also gained 0.8% to $3,083.60. With rising geopolitical risks, potential interest rate cuts, and inflation worries, it continues to be a preferred hedge against uncertainty.

Economic and Market Uncertainty Drives Gold Surge

Gold has been on a strong upward trend, gaining 1.7% this week. Market analysts attribute the surge to several factors, including trade tensions, fiscal policy shifts, and slowing economic growth. It has also been noted that gold is benefiting from multiple global concerns, with $3,100 per ounce seen as the next milestone. Donald Trump’s tariff plans have amplified fears of a deepening trade war. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned of retaliatory trade measures if new auto tariffs are imposed. These uncertainties have led to stock market volatility, further driving investors towards gold as a stable asset. The next round of reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2 could stoke inflation, slow economic growth, and exacerbate trade disputes. According to BMI analysts, gold prices will likely remain bullish due to ongoing policy uncertainty, military conflicts, and macroeconomic risks.

Federal Reserve Policy and Precious Metals Outlook

Richmond Federal Reserve President Tom Barkin stated that the current "moderately restrictive" monetary policy remains appropriate given the high levels of economic uncertainty. The Fed’s recent decision to hold its benchmark rate steady has also influenced its prices. Markets are now awaiting the U.S. Personal Consumption Expenditures data, which could shape expectations for future rate cuts. While gold dominated the headlines, other precious metals saw mixed movements. Spot silver fell 0.3% to $34.31 an ounce. Platinum edged up 0.3% to $988.45, while palladium rose 0.1% to $976.50. These metals remain sensitive to economic trends and industrial demand. Gold's record surge highlights the increasing economic and geopolitical uncertainty worldwide. With trade tensions escalating, inflation fears mounting, and central banks continuing to buy gold, the precious metal remains a key asset for investors seeking stability. As the global landscape remains uncertain, all eyes will be on future trade policies, central bank decisions, and economic indicators shaping the next move in gold prices.

Transforming Brands Through Effective Story Telling Narrative: The Power of Effective Brand Journalism

March 26, 2025, 2:25 pm

In today's fiercely competitive and content-saturated market, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to forge meaningful connections with their audiences. Traditional advertising, often perceived as intrusive, is losing its efficacy. Instead, storytelling has emerged as a potent tool, capable of enhancing brand visibility and fostering deeper, more resonant relationships with consumers. This is where Brand Journalism, a core expertise of Brandcasting, steps in—a strategic fusion of journalistic storytelling with brand messaging, designed to create content that is both engaging and valuable. At Brandcasting, we believe that unlike conventional marketing's focus on self-promotion, Brand Journalism pivots towards delivering informative and insightful narratives. It transcends the mere showcasing of product features, opting instead to craft compelling stories that resonate on a personal and emotional level. Thought leadership articles, customer success stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactive experiences all form integral components of this approach. By positioning a brand as a credible source of information, companies can cultivate trust, establish authenticity, and nurture enduring relationships with their target market. Central to Brand Journalism, as practiced at Brandcasting, is the ability to establish credibility and thought leadership. When brands, guided by our expertise, produce meticulously researched and expertly written content that offers genuine value, they naturally earn the trust of their audience. This not only elevates their status as industry leaders but also reinforces their reputation as a reliable source of information. Today’s discerning consumers are more inclined to engage with brands that demonstrate knowledge, transparency, and integrity. By consistently publishing high-quality articles that address industry trends, challenges, and innovations,companies can solidify their standing in the marketplace. Another critical aspect of Brand Journalism, and a cornerstone of Brandcasting’s approach, is its capacity to humanize a brand. Consumers connect with stories, with people, and with emotions, not with faceless corporations. Through authentic storytelling, brands can showcase their core values, culture, and impact in a relatable and memorable manner. This emotional connection fosters brand loyalty, as consumers are more likely to support a brand they feel personally connected to. Whether it’s sharing an inspiring customer journey, highlighting community initiatives, or offering an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, storytelling helps brands break down barriers and establish a sense of trust and familiarity. To maximize the impact of Brand Journalism, a key focus at Brandcasting, companies must strategically leverage multiple distribution channels. A well-crafted story can be repurposed across various platforms, including company blogs, social media, email newsletters, and even paid advertising. Each channel offers a unique opportunity to engage with different segments of the audience. Blog articles provide in-depth explorations, while social media delivers easily shareable content. However, for Brand Journalism to be truly effective, it must be executed with precision. Understanding the audience is paramount—brands must delve deep into consumer interests, preferences, and pain points to create resonant content. Developing a consistent brand voice and tone, a key service provided by Brandcasting, is equally important, ensuring that every piece of content aligns with the company’s identity and messaging. Additionally, prioritizing quality over quantity is essential. Instead of churning out generic articles, brands should focus on creating high-quality, engaging, and insightful content that delivers tangible value. Measuring and analyzing the impact of Brand Journalism efforts, using metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, and lead generation, is also crucial, and Brandcasting provides detailed analytics to its clients. By integrating Brand Journalism into their broader communication strategy, businesses can achieve a range of benefits. From establishing thought leadership and building credibility to increasing audience engagement and driving conversions, this approach provides a competitive edge in today’s digital landscape. More importantly, it helps brands cultivate a loyal community of advocates who actively engage with and support their messaging. In a world saturated with advertisements and promotional content, Brand Journalism, as implemented by Brandcasting, offers a refreshing alternative. It is not merely about selling a product or service—it is about building meaningful relationships, fostering trust, and making a lasting impact. As brands navigate the complexities of modern marketing, embracing storytelling as a core strategy will be instrumental in their success. Prateek Chandani is the Founder of Brandcasting, a dynamic and results-driven public relations agency that specializes in transforming brands through strategic storytelling.

Tesla Stock Jumps 12% After 30% Slump, Thanks to Elon Musk

March 26, 2025, 1:39 pm

Elon Musk is coming back to Tesla as the electric car giant sees a steep stock drop of more than 30%. His return to the company has calmed investors, causing a big market bounce. Tesla shares jumped 12% on Monday to $278.39, their highest performance since the presidential election in November. The rally carried over to Tuesday with the stock gaining another 2.8% to $286. Wedbush analyst and Tesla stalwart Dan Ives had this to say about the stock action, "The stock was way oversold and is bouncing as Musk is back in charge and trying to balance DOGE and Tesla."

Musk Addresses the Employees

Musk addressed Tesla employees last week in response to market concerns. "What I'm here to tell you is that the future is incredibly bright and exciting," he said. "And we're going to do things that no one I think has even dreamed of." Ives noted the effect of Musk's intervention, adding, "Musk picked up last week with the all-hands meeting, and that gave a much-needed positive message to employees and investors." In spite of the stock bounce, Tesla is still facing strong competition. Byd, a Chinese automaker, recently surpassed Tesla in yearly sales, showing $107 billion in revenue versus Tesla's $97.7 billion. At the same time, Musk's position in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a cost-cutting program aimed at Trump administration spending, has been controversial. His actions have provoked mass protests, leading to vandalism of Tesla showrooms and damage to company cars. The backlash has not escaped political notice, with previous President Donald Trump denouncing the vandals as 'terrorists'. To respond, the FBI declared Monday that it was creating a task force to analyze the events. Ives recognized the persistence of issues, saying, "There is still a brand crisis tornado in the works, but we are viewing numerous flood Tesla dealerships rally behind Musk using these protests piling up."

India Imposes ₹5,100 Crore Tax Penalty on Samsung Over Import Tariffs

March 26, 2025, 10:35 am

The Indian government has ordered Samsung Electronics to pay $601 million (₹5,100 crore) in taxes. Authorities claim the company avoided import duties on critical telecom components. This marks one of the largest tax demands India has ever imposed on a foreign firm, according to Reuters.

Penalty Covers Over Half of Samsung’s Profits

In 2024, Samsung earned a net profit of $955 million in India. However, the tax demand now accounts for more than 60% of that amount. This penalty could significantly impact the company’s financial performance in the country.

Samsung Yet to Respond

So far, Samsung has not released an official statement. The company might choose to challenge the demand in Indian courts. Meanwhile, its role in India’s smartphone market remains crucial despite competition from Chinese brands.

Samsung Holds Strong in Global Market

Although Apple leads globally with nearly 25% market share, Samsung follows closely with around 16%. In India, it continues to be a key competitor in the smartphone industry.

Samsung’s Stock Rises Despite Controversy

Interestingly, Samsung’s stock is gaining momentum. Listed on the Seoul Stock Exchange, its shares opened at KRW 59,800 and quickly surged. By the latest update, the stock had climbed 2.17% to KRW 61,100 per share. This rise suggests strong investor confidence despite the tax dispute.

Air India updates travel policy; employees to fly economy on domestic work trips

March 25, 2025, 6:55 pm

Air India, now owned by Tata Group, has revised its travel policy, mandating all employees, including CEO Campbell Wilson, to take economy-class flights on domestic work-related trips. The new policy, replacing the existing practice of booking business-class seats for on-duty staff (SOD), will be applicable from April 1 for senior executives (vice president and above) and from June 1 for everyone else.

Centre Stage for Customer-Focused Approach

An Air India representative confirmed the announcement, saying, "With this, we intend to make sure that our Business and Premium Economy seats, which are witnessing mammoth demand, are up for booking to our customers first, reflecting a customer centric culture in the new Air India." Since Tata's acquisition in January 2022, premium seat demand has dramatically increased with an airline official stating that demand has increased more than two-fold.

Policy Changes and Upgrade Criteria

The carrier officially informed the staff about the policy change through an email on Monday. Under the new rules, all business-related travel will enjoy a confirmed economy seat rather than the old business-class allocation. However, "staff on duty can be upgraded to premium economy or business if a seat is confirmed to be empty before flying," the official added.

Increasing Premium Offerings

At present, all 53 Vistara A320 family aircraft owned by Air India post-merger have premium economy seating. Also, 14 new A320Neo aircraft with three-class configurations have been inducted so far. The airline currently operates about 50,000 premium economy seats a week, which will go up to 65,000 weekly seats once the retrofits are done by October.

Sensex Soars 1,000+ Points, Nifty 50 Closes Above 23,600 as Bulls Dominate D-Street

March 24, 2025, 5:00 pm

The Dalal Street's bullish momentum, which started last week, carried forward to Monday (March 24), with top benchmark indices gaining more than 1%. It was led by continued foreign fund inflows and aggressive buying in oil, banking, and gas stocks.

Sensex Approaches 78,000, Nifty Crosses 23,600

The BSE 30-share Sensex jumped by 1,078.87 points, or 1.4%, closing just short of the 78,000 level at 77,984.38. The broader Nifty 50 index, in turn, rose by 307.95 points, or 1.32%, to close at 23,658.35.

Top Gainers and Losers

National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), Kotak Mahindra Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), Tech Mahindra, and PowerGrid Corporation of India were the top gainers in both the indices that made a significant contribution to the rise. Though some stocks were hit by selling pressure. In the Sensex group, Titan, IndusInd Bank, Zomato, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Bharti Airtel were the largest laggards. Likewise, in the Nifty group, IndusInd Bank, Titan, Trent, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Bharti Airtel closed in the red.

Strong Foreign Inflows Fuel Rally

The sustained bull run is also due to strong foreign institutional investor (FII) buying, coupled with domestic buying in focus sectors. Bank and energy shares led the pack, which raised investor confidence. With markets trending strongly, experts anticipate further advances in the near term, if global cues continue to be supportive. Investors now await upcoming economic data and company earnings for further guidance.

DNA Testing Giant 23andMe Declares Bankruptcy, Seeks Court-Supervised Sale

March 24, 2025, 3:30 pm

DNA testing company 23andMe has filed for bankruptcy protection. Meanwhile, co-founder and CEO Anne Wojcicki has resigned immediately. Now, the company plans to sell itself under court supervision.

Despite financial struggles, 23andMe assured customers that its operations would continue. In a press release, the company stated, “There are no changes to the way the company stores, manages, or protects customer data.”

Financial Struggles and Data Breach

Previously, 23andMe was a leader in at-home DNA testing. At its peak, investors valued the company at $6 billion (£4.6 billion). However, the company has faced mounting challenges in recent years. Although it went public in 2021, it has never turned a profit.

Moreover, a massive data breach in 2023 further damaged the company's reputation. Hackers accessed personal information from nearly seven million users by exploiting old passwords. As a result, they obtained details like family trees, birth years, and locations. Nevertheless, 23andMe insisted that DNA records remained secure.

Soon after settling a lawsuit over the breach, the company laid off 200 employees, cutting 40% of its workforce.

Leadership Changes and Failed Strategies

Following Wojcicki’s departure, Chief Financial Officer Joe Selsavage has stepped in as interim CEO. However, Wojcicki will remain on the board. Previously, she attempted to take the company private but rejected third-party takeover offers.

Meanwhile, 23andMe struggled to keep customers engaged. Once users purchased a DNA test, they had little reason to return. In response, the company introduced a subscription service. Unfortunately, it failed to attract enough subscribers. Similarly, efforts to use its genetic database for drug development also collapsed.

Loss of Investor Confidence

At one point, 23andMe received high-profile endorsements from celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Eva Longoria, and Snoop Dogg. However, investor confidence has steadily declined. Last summer, all board members except Wojcicki resigned. They left after failing to secure a buyout deal from her.

Adding to the company’s troubles, California’s Attorney General issued a consumer alert last Friday. He advised customers to delete their data due to 23andMe’s "reported financial distress."

Now, as bankruptcy proceedings move forward, the company’s future remains uncertain.