19 C 
Wall Street today saw one of the shocking losses as Google-parent Alphabet sufferedthe worst day since the company began trading at the US Stock Market.
Health insurers seek expense cap tweaks
Standalone health insurers have requested that mandatory insurance products be excluded from expense-of-management calculations. They argue that including these products creates an imbalance for their business model. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India is considering changes to EoM regulations and limits. Insurers believe that the exclusion would help provide a more equitable competitive landscape. The proposed changes aim to revise expense calculation methods and set product-wise commission caps.
West Asia conflict drives 15-20% rise in corporate working-capital demand at banks
Working-capital demand from banks has increased significantly due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Higher raw-material costs and elongated shipping timelines have led to greater funding needs for corporates. Mid- and large-sized companies reported a 12-20% increase in working-capital requirements. Several private sector banks have recorded strong growth in corporate lending during the recent quarter. This momentum was driven primarily by working capital needs and refinancing efforts.
Fintechs to lay out a code for technology vendors amid rising cyberthreats and security risks
Unified Fintech Forum is developing a framework to encourage best practices among technology service providers. This initiative aims to improve cybersecurity preparedness and operational resilience in the fintech sector. Banks and fintech companies increasingly rely on third-party vendors for various services and their failures can impact regulated entities. Registration with the Forum may provide these vendors with preference during selection by financial institutions.
Dreamtime Learning Partners with Anthropic Claude to Bring AI to Schools
New Delhi [India], October 29: Most of the conversation about AI in schools is about students and homework. Dreamtime AiQ was built for the school itself. It gives owners more visibility into critical school metrics, from learning outcomes to teacher insights, through a daily AI-generated report, so they don't have to wait for exam results to see how their school is doing.
Pentagon treating military base freezer malfunctions as suspected cyberattack, officials say
In August, military commissaries in the United States experienced freezer malfunctions that resulted in significant food spoilage. Investigators are exploring these incidents as possible cyberattacks, with updates being shared with French counterparts. A similar attack in France impacted hundreds of commercial freezers, causing significant financial losses. The vulnerability of refrigeration systems to cyber threats poses risks to food safety and supply chains.
Worlds No. 2 Gold Miner Says Diesel Risks Driving Up 2027 Costs
Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. warned that rising diesel prices risk raising the cost of producing gold by as much as $80 per ounce next year, signaling mounting inflationary pressures for the mining industry.
Tata Groups November test: Chandrasekarans reappointment row and Mehli Mistrys November 5 hearing
Noel Tata is questioning N Chandrasekarans reappointment process and seeking board records. Separately, former trustee Mehli Mistry has challenged trust governance and Noels eligibility, while the trusts dispute his legal standing.
IndiGo CEO Willie Walsh said rising fuel costs will make higher airfares unavoidable and forecast low single-digit capacity growth in the December quarter. It plans to adjust aircraft deployment based on demand & costs, with reductions focused more on international routes.
Whats next for law firm Weil Gotshal as it plans dissolution
WEIL-LAW FIRMS/DISSOLUTION (EXPLAINER, PIX):EXPLAINER-What's next for law firm Weil Gotshal as it plans dissolution
Nike unveiled its first-ever running shoe designed for athletes in India. The launch comes as the company continues to grapple with the dip in sales in other key regions, including China, as per Reuters.
INSIGHT - The Mind Clinic Integrates Nihilent's Emoscape Emotion AI Platform into Clinical Practice
Pune (Maharashtra) [India], October 29: INSIGHT - The Mind Clinic, Pune, has integrated Emoscape, Nihilent's medical-grade Emotion AI platform, into its clinical practice to enhance the objectivity of detecting patients' emotional states and enable more informed and personalised patient care. Led by Dr. Hamza Hussain, Founder of INSIGHT - The Mind Clinic and HOD, Mental Health at Ruby Hospital, Pune, the initiative brings AI-based emotion assessment into the clinic's existing psychiatric and psychological assessment processes.
Nikhil Dhoka has taken charge as CEO of JioBlackRock Broking after nearly four years at Kotak Neo, where he led product and revenue. His experience spans Paytm and Western Union, as the Jio Financial ServicesBlackRock venture develops its digital investing business.
Govt, Volkswagen clash in court over record $1.2 billion tax dispute
Volkswagen tax dispute: India defends $1.2 billion import duty demand
Alphabet loses over $500 billion in market value as AI hits Google search
Alphabet lost over $500 billion in market value as weaker-than-expected search and advertising sales raised concerns over AI's impact on Google's core business and soaring infrastructure costs.
PNB settles 43 lakh in claims amid alleged fraud at Greater Noida branch
Bank says three claims have been settled as complaints mount over alleged unauthorised transfers from savings accounts and fixed deposits; 25 customers had complained by Wednesday.
Vedanta lines up USD 25 bn investment over 3 years for organic growth; eyes USD 50 bn revenue
Vedanta Group has announced plans for a USD 25 billion investment to expand its existing businesses significantly. The investment will focus on organic growth in key sectors including aluminium, copper, and oil. Vedanta aims to become a leading silver producer and one of the largest mining companies worldwide. The company also intends to double its renewable energy capacity in the coming years.
Govt defends IDBI Bank sale process, says earlier norms were only indicative
Given the complex nature of strategic transactions, the indicative guidelines give flexibility to ensure cost and time spent in lengthy processes is not wasted, the ministry said.
Cognizant trims 2026 revenue growth guidance again amid macro uncertainty
Cognizant cuts its 2026 constant-currency growth forecast to 4-4.4 per cent amid weak discretionary spending, even as Q3 revenue rises 4.6 per cent and net profit reaches $627 million.
Microsoft eyes to raise at least $25 billion in first US bond since 2017
Microsoft is seeking to raise at least $25 billion through its first US bond sale since 2017, testing investor appetite for AI-linked debt amid rising borrowing costs and spending concerns.
Coal India Q2 net profit jumps 57% to 6,547 crore on higher realisations
Coal India's Q2FY27 profit rises to 6,547 crore as higher coal realisations and other income offset rising expenses, while total income increases 21 per cent to 46,833 crore
Milky Mist sees limited impact from inflation, El Nio as revenue grows 42%
Milky Mist posted a strong September quarter, with revenue rising 42% and profit jumping 175%, helped by strong demand for value-added dairy products and selective price hikes. The company says inflation, El Nio and geopolitical uncertainties have had limited impact.
Ambuja Cements expects volume growth to outpace industry in H2
Trade volumes grew 8.6% in Q2FY27, but weakness in institutional sales kept overall volumes broadly flat. The company expects both segments to return to growth in the second half.
Experts at CII meet flag roadblocks in Kashmir apple carts global ambition
Kashmir has a small four-month window for exporting apples and the cold chain is still poor at maintaining the quality, said Dr. N.K. Krishna Kumar, ex-Deputy Director (Horticulture) Indian Council of Agricultural Research
Companies should put all AI agents in zero-trust category: Netskope founder
AI agents must operate under strict controls, with enterprises held accountable for their actions, says Netskope CEO Sanjay Beri
No business impact from rate hike; 100 bps rise unlikely in FY27: Ajai Shukla
With a strong loan and disbursement growth, the NBFC has hit its target by the second quarter
Microsoft expands AI infrastructure, adds 24 data centres to its 500-plus global kitty in Q1 FY27
Company spends $45.2 billion on capital expenditure in Q1; says GPU deployment times fell 20% and Copilot workload throughput rose over 50%
Trent Q2 profit rises 25% as Zudio, Star grow; Noel Tata to step down
Zudio store network grows 24% to 999 outlets, Star grocery revenue reaches 1,006 crore, while operating margins improve despite inflation. Bahram Vakil to take over as chairman from November 12
D2C brands look beyond discounts as consumers prioritise product value
The shift comes amid rising customer acquisition costs and margin pressures, prompting brands to rethink their reliance on promotional offers to drive sales
Vedanta Oil & Gas posts net profit of 746 cr in Q2 FY27
Vedantas consolidated total income stood at Rs 2,628 crore in Q2 FY27 compared to Rs 2,658 crore in Q1 FY27 and Rs 2,431 crore in Q2 FY26
Tell Mike Johnson Ilhan wont be allowed in Congress: Trump ups ante against Omar over 'fake name'
Reliance Industries seeks voluntary strike-off of UK Hamleys subsidiary
UK authorities have issued a notice for the proposed dissolution of Hamleys (Franchising) Ltd, which recorded 56.08 crore in turnover in 2025 and had nil net worth at year-end.
'Appalling abuse': Ex-FBI chief Comey erupts as Trump DOJ targets him again over classified leak
Brigade Group Q2 net profit rises 29% to 219 crore, revenue falls 12.6%
Brigade Enterprises reports 1,827 crore in real estate sales during Q2FY27, supported by strong residential demand and project launches, while Ebitda rises 27.5 per cent to 478 crore.
LANXESS, BPCL join hands to develop next-gen lubricant solutions
The collaboration would help accelerate the development and commercialisation of high-performance lubricants tailored to evolving industrial needs.
Manipur CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh seeks enhanced central assistance from Sitharaman
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi recently. They discussed the financial health of Manipur and the state's revenue losses over the last three years. Singh requested enhanced central assistance and additional funding under the SASCI scheme during their meeting. The Chief Minister also highlighted the timely payment of salaries and pensions to employees by the state government.
Cognizant pips Indian peers but warns of a tech spending chill
The Nasdaq-listed information technology company's shares tumbled after it trimmed the upper end of its 2026 growth forecast, warning that healthcare and consumer-facing clients were pulling back on discretionary spending
Brigade Enterprises Q2 profit rises 29% to 219 crore, revenue falls 12%
During the quarter, the company launched projects spanning 2.4 million sq ft, with a gross development value (GDV) of approximately 3,000 crore
PI Industries to launch insecticide Pioxaniliprole this rabi season in India
The pesticide can help fight Fall Armywork, a major pest that damages Maize from inside
Sagility block deal: Promoter Sagility BV likely to sell 12% stake for Rs 2,377 crore
Sagility promoter Sagility B.V. is reportedly planning a 12% stake sale worth 2,377 crore through a block deal. The healthcare IT services firm posted 22.5% revenue growth and 8.1% adjusted profit growth in Q2 FY27.
Donald Trump approval ratings ahead of US midterm elections 2026 are out. All major surveyors have showed the US President and Republican Party's chances in the polls.
Investigators are investigating recent freezer failures at US military commissaries that may have resulted from cyberattacks, raising concerns about food safety. In France, similar issues involved the deliberate alteration of refrigeration temperatures, leading to food spoilage. The US military is consulting with French authorities about these strange events as they might be connected.
IndiGo raises fares, but fuel surge keeps losses high
IndiGos revenue rose 26% year-on-year to 23,364 crore due to a hike in average yields, helping narrow its second-quarter net loss to 1,879 crore. However, a spike in fuel costs and softening passenger demand continue to squeeze the airlines core operating margins.
Fino Payments Bank posts 20.9 crore Q2 loss amid SFB transition plans
Fino Payments Bank reports a 34.6 crore loss in H1FY27 as revenue falls 25 per cent, while Q2 loan referral disbursals surge 286 per cent amid preparations for its SFB transition
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Friday
Indian equities rallied over 1% on Thursday as the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, crude prices eased and institutional buying strengthened sentiment. Sensex gained 905 points, while Nifty rose 238 points, adding nearly 5 lakh crore in market value.
Cognizant cuts growth guidance despite industry-beating growth in September quarter
Cognizant beats quarterly growth but cuts full-year 2026 guidance amid stable macro, rising discretionary risks, and restructuring costs.
'White House has to be pristine': Trump vs Obama erupts, trade blows over 'Cheesecake Factory' jibe
'Who was the real Prez?': Autopen scandal explodes at Biden cover-up hearing; Senators erupt
Scapia adds over 200,000 villas, homes and homestays to booking platform
Travel fintech firm Scapia has added over 200,000 villas, homes and homestays to its app across domestic and international destinations amid rising demand for alternative accommodation
Market Trading Guide: Eternal among 2 stocks to buy for Friday for healthy returns
Indian stocks rallied after the US Federal Reserve held rates steady, easing crude prices and renewed institutional buying lifted sentiment. Technical analysts identified Adani Ports and Eternal as potential Friday trading opportunities, citing bullish momentum, breakout levels and defined targets.
Laurus Labs Q2 net profit surges on 33% rise in revenue
Laurus is executing a transformation strategy and operationalised its first commercial scale peptide plant in Visakhapatnam to address surging demand for peptide therapeutics.
IKEA to open second Bengaluru store on Nov 5 as it shifts to smaller city outlets
The 80,000-sq-ft store at Purva Zentech on Kanakapura Main Road will offer over 5,200 products, with the full range of more than 7,000 products available to order
Vedantas metals and oil businesses post strong Q2, steel and power lag
The companys revenue rose 6% year-on-year to 2,488 crore. Profit attributable to shareholders was 746 crore, compared with a loss of 91 crore a year earlier.
Virat Kohli increases stake in Agilitas Sports to 6.4%
Kohli will continue as co-founder of one8 and remain closely involved in building the brand
Equitas MD quits citing overhang from daughter's business, shares crash
Vasudevan said his daughter being the co-promoter of an NBFC was disclosed to Equitas SFB's board and the Reserve Bank of India, and despite there being no conflict of interest, the perception has persisted.
Who is Russell Brands wife Laura Gallacher? What she told court in sexual assault trial
Laura Brand, the spouse of Russell Brand, took the stand to reveal details about their relationship in light of his ongoing trial involving serious allegations of sexual misconduct from six women. She characterized Brand as nurturing and supportive, especially in his role as a father. Although they faced initial hurdles, their connection deepened, leading to their marriage in 2017. The trial proceeds as jurors assess the critical evidence presented.
Benjamin Netanyahu, at risk of losing power, steps up attacks on Israel's Arab parties
Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the recent high Arab voter turnout was influenced by voter fraud allegations. Arab leaders, including Ahmad Tibi, accused him of inciting fear to undermine election results. Authorities confirmed ongoing investigations into election integrity, but denied systematic compromise. Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasised the need to avoid tarnishing the entire Arab community involved in the democratic process.
From Patna to Kanpur, can an emerging market fix dirty, broken cities?
Patna is set to become the first municipality in Bihar to issue municipal bonds, raising Rs 200 crore for urban infrastructure. This move highlights the ongoing need for investment in India's urban infrastructure amid challenges like urban flooding and sanitation. Other cities like Kanpur are also expected to follow with their own bond issues soon. However, many municipalities still struggle with reliable revenue sources needed for debt repayment.
MTAR Technologies gets NCLT nod to merge two wholly owned subsidiaries
MTAR Technologies has received NCLT approval to merge its wholly owned subsidiaries Gee Pee Aerospace and Defence and Magnatar Aero Systems into the parent company. The restructuring aims to simplify the corporate structure, consolidate operations, reduce administrative costs and improve efficiency.
AtHomeCare Trialling Integrated App to Streamline Post-Discharge Care, Reduce Readmissions
New Delhi [India], October 29: For many families across Delhi-NCR, a patient's discharge from the hospital marks the beginning of another arduous phase. Arranging trained nurses, procuring medical equipment, managing complex medication schedules, and coordinating follow-up consultations often fall heavily on working households and families caring for elderly relatives.
responsAbility invests $20 million in Navitas Solar as part of its Asia Climate Fund: What is it?
Navitas Solar secures $20 million or 190 crore from responsAbility to fund its growth plans. The investment is a part of responsAbility's Asia Climate Fund.
It aims to cater to business leaders, entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNIs) seeking exclusive access to live events, personalised hospitality and privacy.
GIFT City funds see tax issues resolved after representations: Experts
Tax authorities address Section 80LA deduction disputes, but experts flag GST compliance costs and competitiveness concerns
PN Vasudevan's recent announcement of his resignation as managing director of Equitas Small Finance Bank highlights pressing concerns over a conflict of interest involving his daughter's NBFC. Following the news, the bank's shares experienced a drastic dip yet managed a partial recovery before settling lower. This comes on the heels of the bank's impressive Q2 net profit growth, showcasing its strong operational health.
Q2 Results Highlights, 29th October 2026: businessline brings to you latest Q2 announcements, earnings updates and more.
Apple has unveiled its first touchscreen MacBook Pro, reversing years of resistance to touch-enabled laptops. Steve Jobs argued in 2010 that vertical touchscreens caused arm fatigue. Apple says advances in display technology, silicon and software have now made touch practical.
Adani group, IHCL to develop eight airport hotels
The partnership will add 2,000 rooms across various brands over the next 3-4 years
PNB suspends 12 employees, files CBI case over alleged bank fraud involving 10 crore
Punjab National Bank has taken action by suspending twelve staff members linked to unauthorized fund transfers utilizing the branch manager's password. Evidence points to a female employee collaborating with external parties in these transactions. Current estimates of the losses indicate they are below Rs 10 crore, contradicting widespread claims online.
Asian Paints Q2 net profit rises 7.45% to 1,068 crore, revenue up 17%
Asian Paints reported a 7.45 per cent rise in Q2FY27 net profit to 1,068 crore, supported by strong decorative paint sales, despite raw material inflation and supply constraints.
Pidilite to take further price hikes if input costs rise, says Vats
The pricing actions come amid volatility in vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), a key raw material used in Fevicol
Godrej Consumers Q2 revenue rises 19% as pricing hikes offset cost pressures
Consolidated volume growth stood at 8% in Q2FY27 as the company raised prices across fabric care and soaps, with further increases in the pipeline.
Motilal Oswal Q2 Results: PAT nearly quadruples to Rs 1,070 crore; revenue up 20%
Motilal Oswal reported a 29% year-on-year rise in operating profit to 718 crore in Q2 FY27, driven by asset management and wealth management growth. Assets under management expanded, while recurring revenue strengthened earnings visibility and business resilience.
V-Guard PAT surges 71% in Q2 FY27 to over 111 cr
V-Guards revenue from operations grows 38.2% to 1,852.89 crore in Q2 FY27
Equitas Small Finance Bank board says that it had requested Vasudevan to remain in his position until a successor is identified
Trent names Bahram Vakil chairman as Noel Tata to step down after nearly three decades
The leadership transition comes as the retailer posts 22% revenue growth and 25% higher net profit in Q2, driven by store expansion and traction across its fashion brands.
The Sensex surged 905 points to close at 74,151, while four healthcare stocks hit fresh 52-week highs. Shukra Medtech, Acutaas Chemicals, Piramal Pharma and Laurus Labs recorded monthly gains of 12% to 26%.
Trent Ltd. appointed Bahram Vakil as chairman from November 12, replacing Noel Tata, who becomes chairman emeritus on the same day. All we know about Tata's successor.
Trent names Bahram Vakil chairman as Noel Tata retires on November 11
Noel Tata will retire as Trent chairman and director on November 11 after nearly three decades with the retailer, with Bahram Vakil set to succeed him from November 12.
World War 3? US, Europe, Japan urge households to prepare emergency stockpiles. Here's what you need
In response to various uncertainties, nations such as the United States, the UK, and Japan are encouraging families to build emergency stockpiles. The suggested duration fluctuates from three days to two weeks. Crucial supplies include water, canned foods, medications, and hygiene essentials. Those living in colder regions or with pets may need additional provisions. These preparedness strategies are designed to help households cope during emergencies and social upheaval.
Afghanistan vs Zimbabwe: Playing XI, live streaming, date, time, pitch and weather report
AFG vs ZIM Live Streaming: Afghanistan will face Zimbabwe in the second T20I match on October 29 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The first match ended with Afghanistan winning by 37 runs, giving them a 1-0 series lead. Zimbabwe aims to recover from this loss and even the series before the final match. Conditions in Sharjah are suitable for bowlers, especially spinners, due to the pitch's characteristics.
Chhattisgarh High Court has held that a woman working as a guest lecturer cannot be denied maternity leave salary merely because she is not a regular employee. Justice Bibhu Datta Guru directed the State authorities to decide Pushpa Jaiswal's claim for unpaid maternity salary, preferably within three months.
IKEA plans a multiformat push across six markets to quadruple revenue by 2030
The Swedish retailer is banking on new stores, digital sales and business customers to accelerate growth and deepen its presence in India.
Indian equities rallied on Thursday, with the Sensex rising 905 points and the Nifty gaining 238 points as easing crude oil prices, the US Federal Reserves rate decision and institutional buying lifted sentiment. Adani Ports SEZ and Adani Enterprises led Nifty gainers, while Trent and Maruti Suzuki were among the top losers.
Oracle opens cloud to Googles AI chips, challenging GPU dominance
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure will offer Googles TPUs from 2027, giving customers another option for AI training and inference
Uber has introduced encrypted trip video recording to help resolve disputes, with footage accessible only to law enforcement agencies that formally approach the company. The ride-hailing platform has also strengthened driver safety measures and expanded earning opportunities through intercity bike rides, parcel deliveries and additional services.
A green giants pollution woes: How Waaree Energies dumped toxic effluents in a Gujarat village
Indias solar poster child built a 1-trillion valuation on promises of a cleaner future. But along a quiet Gujarat stream, villagers point to foul runoffand government records reveal repeated pollution notices. A Mint investigation.
Axiro Semiconductor announces investment in ThinSiC
Axiro entered into a long-term commercial partnership to support the development and commercialisation of ThinSiCs silicon carbide power device technology
PM to visit Gujarat on Oct 30-31, inaugurate projects worth Rs 14,000 crore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin a two-day visit to Gujarat, where he will inaugurate significant development projects. He will dedicate over Rs 14,000 crore worth of initiatives, including child-friendly Anganwadi Centres and agriculture infrastructure projects. Modi is also set to participate in cultural celebrations, notably Bharat Parv 2026, aimed at showcasing India's diverse heritage. Additionally, he will lay the foundation stone for the Ahmedabad Metro phases.
Promoters key in emerging markets, professional management vital as firms grow: Anil Agarwal
Anil Agarwal made a compelling case for the crucial impact of promoters in emerging markets, particularly India. He pointed out the differences when compared to developed markets, where the management often operates independently from ownership. Highlighting the changing dynamics of India's corporate sector, shaped largely by family entrepreneurs, Agarwal emphasized the requirement for professional management to enhance governance and efficiency as businesses flourish.
Godrej Consumer Products posted 13.8% profit growth to 522.92 crore and 19% revenue growth to 4,413.09 crore in Q2 FY27. Strong international performance, expanding home care brands and a 5 interim dividend supported its outlook for sustained growth.
