US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a substantial framework to prevent 100% tariffs on Chinese goods and defer rare earths export controls. High-level talks in Kuala Lumpur preceded this development, aiming for more balanced trade, agricultural purchases, and fentanyl crisis measures. The framework is expected to be finalized by Presidents Trump and Xi.
India’s economy is poised for steady growth in the latter half of the financial year, driven by robust domestic consumption. Despite global trade uncertainties and US tariffs, strong internal demand and government spending on infrastructure are key stabilisers. Festive sales are projected to hit record highs, signalling consumer confidence.
Indian FMCG companies experienced a slight sales dip in the September quarter due to GST reforms and heavy rains. Despite these short-term disruptions, global giants like Unilever, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola remain optimistic about future growth, citing improving macroeconomic conditions and India’s significant long-term potential.
US President Donald Trump’s sanctions on Russia’s Rosneft and Lukoil may compel India and China to halt crude imports. While tariffs proved insufficient, these sanctions block financial transactions, making trade nearly impossible.
Indian stock markets witnessed a significant surge last week, with the top ten most valued companies collectively adding over Rs 1.55 lakh crore to their market capitalization. Reliance Industries and TCS led the gains, reflecting robust investor confidence. The BSE Sensex also climbed, hitting a new 52-week high. Despite some individual stock declines, the overall…
Despite a GST reduction on personal grooming and fitness services from 18% to 5%, consumers are facing price hikes of 10%-20%. This increase is due to businesses now absorbing the full cost of taxes on expenses like equipment and rent, as the input tax credit (ITC) has been withdrawn.
The Federal Reserve faces a difficult decision on interest rates amid a US government shutdown, which has halted crucial economic data. Analysts anticipate a quarter-point rate cut, but uncertainty remains regarding future moves due to conflicting inflation and employment signals. Political pressures also complicate the Fed’s independent decision-making process.
India is boosting its electronic waste recycling capacity to recover critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. A Rs 1,500 crore incentive scheme aims to reduce import dependence by supporting domestic processing of e-waste and used batteries. This initiative encourages private players and strengthens the formal recycling chain.
Federal Bank has secured a Rs 6,196.5 crore capital infusion from Blackstone through a preferential issue of warrants. This strategic move aims to bolster capital adequacy, support organic and inorganic expansion, and position the bank among India’s top five private sector lenders. The investment provides flexibility for potential acquisitions and strengthens the bank’s digital and…
Government officials have denied allegations of influencing LIC’s investment decisions, stating the insurer’s board-approved policies govern its investments. They emphasized LIC’s exposure to the Adani Group is significantly less than to other major conglomerates like Tata and Reliance, with investments subject to regulatory oversight.
