business
Trump tariffs: US advisor rules out talks; says rates are ‘pretty much set’
US trade representative Jamieson Greer asserted that the new American tariff rates are largely fixed, with limited room for negotiation, defending the Trump administration’s recent levies, including those imposed on Brazil. These tariffs, set to take effect on August 7, are influenced by existing agreements and trade imbalances.
Edible oil regulation: Govt tightens norms; monthly reporting, factory checks made mandatory
The Centre has introduced the Vegetable Oil Products, Production and Availability (VOPPA) Regulation Order, 2025, to enhance transparency and prevent disruptions in India’s edible oil industry. This new framework mandates registration and monthly reporting for vegetable oil producers, granting authorities greater enforcement powers to ensure compliance and stabilize supplies.
OPEC+ to raise oil production by 547,000 bpd; move aimed at reclaiming market share
The Voluntary Eight (V8) members of OPEC+ have agreed to increase oil production by 547,000 barrels per day starting September 2025, aiming to regain market share amidst stable oil prices. This decision, finalized after a meeting, represents a 1.5% increase in total output.
Cooperative taxi launch: ‘Bharat’ service to rival Ola, Uber; app rollout by December
India’s cooperative sector is set to launch ‘Bharat,’ a new taxi service, by the end of 2025 to compete with Ola and Uber. Backed by Rs 300 crore and major cooperatives, the initiative aims to provide better returns for drivers and affordable, safe services for passengers.
Technical snag: Air India cancels Singapore-Chennai flight; offers refunds, hotel stay
Air India cancelled its Singapore to Chennai flight AI349 due to a technical issue discovered during a pre-departure check, impacting passengers scheduled to travel on the Airbus A321. The airline is providing hotel accommodations, full refunds, or complimentary rescheduling options.
Semiconductor mission: How India is stepping up its chip revolution
India is rapidly transforming its semiconductor industry with strong government support and significant investments, aiming to become a key global player. The India Semiconductor Mission, with a Rs 76,000 crore budget, drives manufacturing, design, and R&D. Approved projects from major companies like Tata and Micron will boost chip production.
Staffing trends: Tech recruitment stagnant; AI & cloud skills drive demand outside IT
India’s IT services sector faces flat hiring for six to seven quarters, with demand shifting to GCCs and non-IT sectors. Quess Corp benefits from this shift, with 73% of demand from these areas, driven by AI, cloud, and cybersecurity roles. The company’s professional staffing segment thrives, offsetting flatness in general staffing and declines in digital…
RBI likely to hold repo rate at 5.5% amid growth concerns, subdued inflation – Experts
Following three consecutive rate cuts, the Reserve Bank of India is expected to maintain the repo rate at 5.5 per cent in its upcoming monetary policy review. While inflation remains below the RBI’s target, experts believe the central bank may hold off on further easing to assess the full impact of earlier cuts, considering resilient…
PNB eyes Rs 30 lakh crore milestone by March 2026
Punjab National Bank (PNB) is confident in exceeding its business target for the current fiscal year, aiming for Rs 30 lakh crore by March 2026. With a strong corporate loan pipeline and focus on MSME and retail lending, PNB anticipates significant growth. The bank prioritizes low-cost CASA deposits and maintains a healthy capital adequacy ratio…
