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India October business growth hits 4-month high; hiring stalls, PMI shows
India's business activity expanded at its fastest pace in four months through a strong services-led pickup. The Composite Purchasing Managers' Index rose to 56.7 in October, exceeding forecasts due to increased orders. Despite this growth, hiring remained stagnant as companies managed workloads with current staff. Price pressures eased, resulting in lower input-cost inflation across both sectors. Overall, business confidence improved but remained below the average for the year.
Cipla subsidiary clears USFDA inspection with zero observations
Cipla on Friday said a routine US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) inspection at its wholly owned subsidiary InvaGen Pharmaceuticals' manufacturing facility in Hauppauge, Long Island, New York.
Streaming platforms have something for everyone, featuring an array of films and shows that span genres. Highlights include Chaar Yaar and Lupin Part 4, which captivate audiences with their intriguing plots. Dhoomakethu offers a fresh twist with its comedic time-loop premise, while The Paradise enhances the period action genre. Read on to know where to watch them online.
Two people, same salary, 20 years: CA Nitin Kaushik reveals what separates the wealthy from the rest
CA Nitin Kaushik explains why two people earning the same salary for 20 years can build vastly different wealth. He says financial security depends on managing money wisely, investing in assets, understanding debt and maintaining emergency savings. Rather than focusing only on income, he urges people to assess their assets and financial resilience.
ICICI Bank will revise charges on cash deposits and withdrawals beyond the free limit, demand drafts and ECS debit returns from 1 December 2026, according to an email to customers. Free monthly limits and the ECS return cap are unchanged. Heres what customers should check before transacting.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's direction on the sets of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam created memorable moments. Smita Jayakar recently revealed that Salman Khan was scolded by Bhansali for unexpectedly touching Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's arm. Their off-screen chemistry was evident and contributed to the film's emotional scenes.
SpaceX says potential Tesla merger would need Musk's approval
SpaceX has stated that any potential merger with Tesla will require Elon Musk's approval. Despite Musk's recusal from talks due to conflicts of interest, his endorsement raises concerns. Analysts believe a merger is likely, although opinions vary on shareholder compensation. Musk's recent comments have caused issues that may lead to delays in the process. The special committee and board of directors will review and approve any potential combination.
Sebi said certain unregistered persons were offering stock recommendations to investors through invitation-only WhatsApp groups in the name of free investor education.
Qatar Energy locks in US LNG supply from Cheniere as Hormuz disruption drags on
Qatar Energy has signed a significant liquefied natural gas agreement with Cheniere Energy to purchase 4 million metric tons annually. The deal ensures supply flexibility as tensions in the Strait of Hormuz could affect exports. Two million metric tons per year will come from Cheniere's Sabine Pass facility, while the remaining will be sourced from Corpus Christi.
Knauf Group to invest additional 350 million in India, plans four new plants
German building materials company Knauf Group plans to invest an additional 350 million in India to set up four new manufacturing plants, Managing Partner Murat Akyildiz said after meeting Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
8th Pay Commission: How higher basic pay could boost your earnings over 20 years Expert explains
The 8th Pay Commission is holding consultations in Mumbai on 22-23 October. Unions have sought a minimum basic pay of 69,000-72,000 and higher increments. An expert explains how a higher basic pay can raise DA, HRA, pension and gratuity over a 20-year career. These are proposals, not approved.
Punjab government employees staged a mass casual leave protest demanding pending dearness allowance payments, restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, pension revisions and reinstatement of discontinued allowances.
Jailer 2, featuring the legendary Rajinikanth and helmed by director Nelson Dilipkumar, has achieved a remarkable box office milestone, surpassing Rs 600 crore globally. Released on October 15, the film has been captivating audiences in diverse languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada. Read on!
A Japanese giant is quietly taking a bigger shelf in Indias wardrobes
Uniqlo India's revenue increased by 44% to Rs 1,724 crore in the last financial year. The brand's focus on everyday essentials contrasts with fashion-led competitors like Zara and H&M. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing quality and versatility rather than simply seeking trendy items. A report indicates that many people make fashion purchases based on necessity rather than impulse.
International investing for Indians: Mutual funds, GIFT City or direct stocks?
Indian investors have several ways to access global markets, from domestic international mutual funds and GIFT City-based funds to direct overseas investing. Each route differs in cost, accessibility, control, and compliance requirements. Understanding these distinctions can help investors evaluate which approach aligns with their existing portfolio, financial goals, and comfort with managing international investments.
Shazam! actor Michael Gray dies at 75: What we know about his cause of death
Michael Gray, beloved for his role as Billy Batson in the iconic 1970s series Shazam!, has passed away at the age of 75. His death was attributed to natural causes following a period of declining health. Beginning his television journey in 1972 with NBC's The Little People, Gray left a mark with various memorable roles. Notably, he made a cameo appearance in 2023's Shazam! Fury of the Gods.
Why wealthy entrepreneurs are buying businesses for their kids to run
For older entrepreneurs who arent quite ready to retire, buying and growing a business with their children becomes part hobby and part training ground for the next generation.
Apple launches into foldable market as iPhone Duo sales begin
Sales of Apple's iPhone Duo began recently, with significant demand leading to delayed delivery dates for customers. Mixed reviews highlight praise for the phone's design but also note shortcomings with its camera and usability. Early adopters in cities like Sydney formed long queues outside Apple stores to purchase the device. The availability of the Duo is limited in several countries, which could disappoint many fans.
I expect SIPs to disappoint investors: Shankar Sharma
Calling heavy retail flows a threat to macroeconomic stability, market veteran Shankar Sharma warns that SIPs will yield poor returns and advises investors to prioritize fixed income, gold, and real estate.
Samsung to boost India phone exports under new incentive scheme
The South Korean electronics giant is considering expanding India production, including making fresh investments, to boost exports from here. But if the international market continues to contract due to the high cost of memory chips, it could explore a shift of capacity.
Explainer: Decoding eMudhras keys to chaos
Government plans to pare stakes in 4 PSU banks to 75%
The Union government announced in the 2021-22 budget that, besides IDBI Bank, it would take up two public sector banks and one general insurance company for privatisation.
eMudhra cofounder on what went wrong
Iran Caps Dollar Purchases At $1,000 Per Day Amid Sanctions-Hit Economy
According to Fars news agency, under the latest rules for banks and exchange offices, buyers may purchase up to $10,000 in total, capped at $1,000 per day.
US bond Yields have dropped in recent days, as concerns about a slowdown in AI spending and its impact on economic growth have overshadowed economic data, which showed persistent inflation pressures.
eMudhra exits website security certification business after vulnerability
Digital authentication services company eMudhra has announced its decision to exit the global SSL/TLS certificate business after a vulnerability was discovered in the security keys issued by its certification authorities, leading to a 20 per cent drop in its shares.
Ultraviolette launches X-47 Venom electric motorcycle at Rs 2.65 lakh
Ultraviolette has launched the X-47 Venom electric motorcycle at an introductory price of Rs 2.65 lakh. Bookings for the motorcycle began on October 22, with expected deliveries starting in November 2026. The X-47 Venom features advanced battery technology and motor capabilities for enhanced performance and safety. Additionally, it comes with innovative rider safety vests that offer significant protection.
MPC minutes: Two more interest rate hikes on cards, maybe even a third
Market participants and economists now expect a 25-bps increase in the December and February reviews. A further 25-bps increase in April isn't ruled out if crude oil prices remain persistently above $100. One basis point is a hundredth of a percentage point. After the minutes were released, we think the probability of a consecutive hike in December has increased. Our terminal rate forecast is now at 6% for this hiking cycle and we expect the cycle to be rather shallow, Barclays said in a note.
Centre flags land, green tape hurdles in infra projects
Delays in land acquisition and obtaining various environmental clearances have significantly impacted the progress of infrastructure projects. Although central agencies are improving approval times, states are still facing lengthy procedures for necessary permits. Utility shifting is also causing major disruptions, often taking longer than projected. The recent analysis reveals a considerable increase in costs due to pre-construction delays.
Aramco asks staff to evacuate Dhahran HQ
Saudi state oil company Aramco has told staff to evacuate its headquarters in Dhahran on the Gulf, six people with knowledge of the matter said on Thursday, as fighting between the world's largest crude exporter and Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthis intensifies.The US ordered the departure of some diplomats and their families from Saudi Arabia due to the threat from Houthi militants, after the Iran-backed group carried out deadly strikes from Yemen.Clashes between the Houthis and a Saudi-led coalition that backs Yemen's internationally recognised government have raged since the group pushed towards Bab el-Mandeb, a shipping chokepoint at the Red Sea's mouth.The instruction to staff to evacuate the building and work remotely follows a wave of Houthi attacks on the kingdom, targeting the company and Saudi airports. The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Also read | How the Mecca defense agreement between Turkey, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will workIt was unclear what the reason for the evacuation was.The kingdom's benchmark index TASI dropped 2.5% on Thursday following the Aramco news, according to LSEG data.Crude Tankers attackedSeven oil tankers caught fire or were damaged in the Strait of Hormuz overnight after being hit by Iran or striking naval mines, Tehran said on Thursday, a markedly high number as tensions rise over concerns about a return to all-out war.With days before a close election in Israel in which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could lose power, and before next month's U.S. midterm election in which war-linked high prices have sparked voter anger, there are concerns that U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran could resume.Also read | Iran asks US to prove it wants peace by lifting blockadeNetanyahu wants to attack Iran, that's not even a question, Danny Citrinowicz, a researcher at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies and a former Iran specialist in Israel's military and intelligence services said.'TARGETED ARAMCO IN YANBU'Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said in a televised speech that the group had launched attacks on Aramco facilities in the Red Sea city of Yanbu and the Saudi defense ministry in the capital Riyadh. Saudi authorities did not confirm the attack.The Saudi-led coalition said on Thursday it had intercepted drones over Riyadh and Islam's holy city of Medina, which is near Yanbu.
RBI asks banks, payment firms to forensically clear tech environments in case of a data breach
The RBI has asked financial entities to remove management and administrative interfaces from public internet access, enforce multi-factor authentication for administrative access, and restrict access to cloud and backend systems on a least-privilege basis. The measures include auditing source code, repositories, configuration files, client applications and cloud storage for exposed credentials, and immediately rotating and purging compromised credentials.
I-T likely to send notices over undisclosed foreign property
The Income-Tax Department will send notices to resident Indians regarding undisclosed foreign properties. Information was obtained through spontaneous exchanges and prior investigations into overseas assets. The FAST-DS scheme allows individuals to voluntarily disclose properties without facing penalties or prosecution. This opportunity aims to regularize the foreign assets of small taxpayers effectively. Overall participation in the scheme has been lower than anticipated due to its limitations.
Italy's Pirelli and India's Balkrishna Industries float JV to make tyres
Pirelli has partnered with Balkrishna Industries to manufacture up to 8 lakh tyres annually in Gujarat. This production is expected to commence in the next financial year, according to the company's joint managing director. Initially, Balkrishna Industries will produce tyres under an off-take arrangement for Pirelli at the new facility. There are plans for a 50:50 joint venture to produce passenger car tyres under both brands.
Prada Q3 revenue rises in a slowing luxe market
Italian luxury group Prada reported a 1% organic growth in revenue for the third quarter of the year. This performance reflects resilience in a challenging luxury market environment and the acquisition of Versace. Growth was supported by positive trends in the Americas and stable sales in the Asia-Pacific region. However, retail sales from the Miu Miu brand declined by 3% amid these challenges.
Chana sowing holds key to pulses inflation
Chana, India's most consumed pulse, which is central to making everything from salty snacks to nutritious meals, needs adequate soil moisture and cool weather for a good crop. Sowing has started in some regions, but the progress is slow. State advisories to conserve water and shift to less water-intensive crops have added to concerns over winter sowing.
India-Germany trade can surge 10-fold, says Piyush Goyal
India-Germany bilateral trade is expected to increase significantly, with aims of reaching 310 billion from 31 billion. Both countries are focused on co-creating and leveraging their complementary strengths for economic growth. The India-EU free trade agreement is anticipated to be signed soon and will facilitate mutual benefits. Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the importance of trust and cooperation between the nations.
UN biodiversity summit to take stock of 2030 goals
Representatives from 196 countries are meeting in Yerevan to evaluate biodiversity progress under the 2030 targets. The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework aims to restore ecosystems and phase out harmful subsidies. India's national report highlights progress with key wildlife species, despite challenges in land degradation and protected areas. The report shows India's successful ecosystem restoration and involvement in biodiversity-inclusive planning.
GST return forms likely to be tweaked to curb mismatches
The government is looking to revamp GST return forms to minimise discrepancies between reported sales and tax payments. Draft forms will be available for public feedback starting November 1 and the changes take effect on April 1, 2027.
Following Supreme Court directions, Andhra Pradesh urban polls paused
Even as SEC paused the process, YSRCP alleged that the ruling TDP cadres continued to attack and intimidate its candidates for the second consecutive day. The Opposition party released videos of several places and alleged that the modus operandi had been to not allow senior YSRCP leaders to accompany candidates to nomination centres and then snatch the nomination papers to prevent them from filing.
A 10,000-step daily target may not be necessary to support brain health. Researchers have found that a much lower number of daily steps is linked to slower cognitive decline and changes associated with Alzheimers disease. The findings also reveal why walking more may not always mean greater benefits, offering a fresh perspective on how a simple daily habit could help protect the ageing brain.
Event data recorders may be mandatory for vehicles
By 2029, India's ministry of road transport and highways is looking to enforce the installation of event data recorders in vehicles to enhance safety and decrease road accident rates. Additionally, from 2030, passenger vehicles will be required to feature advanced emergency braking systems.
Berlin Global Dialogue: EU inviting disaster through carbon tax, says Piyush Goyal
Piyush Goyal expressed concerns over the EU's carbon tax and numerous regulations impacting their steel industry. He warned that these measures could lead to increased costs and decreased competitiveness for EU businesses. Goyal highlighted that the high import duties and standards could harm the economy and raise the cost of living. He mentioned the reciprocal nature of trade regulations in response to the EU's actions.
eMudhra is exiting its global website security certificate business after Google, Apple & Microsoft withdrew trust in certificates weakened by a software error. The company says it revoked 8 affected certificates, detected no breach and that its Indian digital signature services remain unaffected.
India's a call-out market, but there's room to grow: Nestle
Nestle SA reports that 37% of urban households in India purchase Maggi noodles monthly. The instant noodles segment is outpacing overall food sector growth in the country. Nestle is investing in its Maggi and KitKat brands as they capture consumer preferences for convenience and diversity. Despite a revenue increase, food inflation remains a significant concern for the company. Regulatory scrutiny on Nestle India's labeling practices has also emerged recently.
Airbnb new guidelines: What travellers need to know before booking a vacation rental
Beginning on November 20, Airbnb is rolling out updated guidelines to enhance cleanliness expectations for guests. Hosts can no longer impose extensive cleaning responsibilities, permitting only simple tasks. A new feature in the app aims to clarify house rules and host requests for better guest comprehension. If guests encounter unreasonable demands, they can report them. It's important for travelers to check house rules and total expenses before confirming their bookings.
LNG imports up 9% in Mar-Sep; US, Oman & Nigeria bridge supply gap
India has increased its liquefied natural gas imports from the US, Oman, and Nigeria significantly since the Iran war. The country now imports about 68% of its LNG from these suppliers, compared to just 25% last year. Qatar's contribution has dropped to 3% from 45%, highlighting a major shift in sourcing strategies. Domestic gas consumption has remained steady, driven by the expanding city gas sector.
Chinese spending curbs weigh on Hermes sales
Revenue in the region that includes China, the luxury group's biggest market, flatlined at constant exchange rates, Hermes International said Thursday. Analysts had expected growth of about 1.6%. The region generates around 42% of Hermes' total revenue.
Rupee closes at 94.81 against dollar, market sentiment hit
The Indian rupee depreciated by 43 paise to close at 94.81 against the US dollar, influenced by a negative trend in domestic equity markets, surging crude oil prices, and significant foreign institutional investor outflows.
A new two-year study has challenged concerns about diet soda and weight gain, finding that adults who drank diet beverages lost a similar amount of weight to those who drank water. But does that mean your favourite sugar-free drink is safe? Research has also linked artificial sweeteners to potential health risks, including diabetes and cardiovascular problems. Here is what the latest findings reveal and why the debate over diet soda is far from over.
Sony India TV, audio sales stay flat in FY26 despite GST boost
Overall revenue from operations grew a marginal 0.9% to 7,918 crore, while net profit rose 19% to 187 crore. The company's other businesses, comprising gaming consoles and digital cameras, recorded modest growth, with revenue increasing to 1,389 crore from 1,322 crore in FY25.
Silver inflows likely to rebound as import curbs eased for Diwali
Fresh import permits are set to ease India's silver supply constraints and premiums ahead of Diwali, though demand is expected to trail last year's levels
Even a 10-year SIP could deliver losses, with small-cap indices recording a worst-case return of -0.13%. Edelweiss Mutual Fund data shows mid-cap SIPs delivered the highest average returns over five and ten years, outperforming large- and small-caps.
India extends duty-free raw sugar import deadline to December 31
The extension gives importers additional time to bring in raw sugar under the duty-free import allowance, according to an official notification.
iPhone Duo's entire first week stock pre-booked in India
Apple's highly anticipated and most expensive foldable smartphone, the iPhone Duo, has completely sold out its first week's stock in India through pre-bookings, ahead of its official sale date of October 23. This strong demand, particularly at Apple Stores in Mumbai and New Delhi, signals a significant entry into the premium foldable market.
Steve Jobs famous quote, We're here to put a dent in the universe. Otherwise why else even be here?, highlights the importance of making a meaningful difference rather than simply chasing success. The Apple co-founder believed people could shape the future through their work and decisions. His wife, Laurene Powell Jobs, explained that the quote is often misunderstood, arguing that it is about people's ability to change their circumstances and the systems around them.
Goyal asks Europe not to 'invite disaster'
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has cautioned the European Union that its carbon tax on steel imports and a growing list of regulations could raise costs for businesses and consumers, stoke inflation and erode the bloc's global competitiveness.Speaking at the Berlin Global Dialogue on October 22, Goyal said the EU risked hurting its own industries by imposing additional trade restrictions and compliance requirements, including the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). He pointed out that higher costs for steel and other industrial materials could undermine Europe's economic interests.Goyal described the EU's approach as counterproductive, warning that the cumulative burden of regulations could hurt European industries while creating non-tariff barriers for trading partners.Also read | ArcelorMittal & SA's IDC close in on $610 m dealThe minister pointed to the implications for infrastructure development, saying higher costs for steel, aluminium and cement would affect projects ranging from ports and airports to highways, utilities and water pipelines. He said the impact would be compounded by CBAM and deforestation-related requirements.Goyal said the EU had accumulated around 75-77 regulations, arguing that repeated additions were increasing the compliance burden on businesses and making them less competitive in global markets.He also cautioned that countries could respond to restrictions imposed on their businesses with regulations of their own, potentially hurting European companies. In his view, the resulting increase in costs could push up inflation and make it harder for European industries to compete internationally.The minister cited Germany's automobile sector as an example, saying car sales in the country had declined by 15-20% over roughly the past decade. He warned that further cost increases could put more pressure on the industry's ability to compete.Goyal said India was focusing on improving its competitiveness while building mutually beneficial trade relationships with partner countries. He described India's trade agreements as fair, equitable and balanced, adding that the country was developing complementary economic strengths with its partners.Also read | Welspun Corps $350 million US bet rides rising oil, gas pipeline demandHe also pointed to Singapore as an example of a trading partner without CBAM and deforestation-related requirements.India has repeatedly raised concerns about the European Union's regulatory framework. Under CBAM, Indian exports of steel, aluminium and cement to the EU could face tariffs of 20-35%.The EU's anti-deforestation regulation (EUDR) imposes compliance requirements on products linked to deforestation. The rules affect sectors including rubber, creating additional obligations for producers and exporters seeking access to European markets.Goyal also highlighted India's relatively small contribution to global carbon emissions, saying the country accounts for 3-3.5% of the total while supporting 17% of the world's population.
Cash deposits of 10 lakh or more in savings accounts can be reported to the Income Tax Department, while parents can gift 50 lakh or more to children tax-free. Know the cash deposit limits, gift tax rules and documents needed to avoid scrutiny.
Indian Food Ministry asks States to ensure no sugar is diverted for ethanol
Diversion may not be allowed the entire supply year even as the Centre extends duty-free imports of raw sugar until December 31,
In various videos he had shared on Instagram, the Udta Punjab star had admitted he was a foodie, and he doesnt really believe in denying himself the joys of good food, so from pasta to kabab to chocolate, he has them all. However, he also follows a disciplined fitness regimen to keep himself lithe and avoid gaining weight.
Modi, Tusk push for doubling of Indo-Polish trade, early India-EU trade pact
The two also discussed strategic connectivity, including direct flights, port co-operation, maritime security, and alignment with the IndiaMiddle EastEurope Economic Corridor (IMEC).
Troo Good opens seventh factory, takes output to 5 crore chikkis a month
Hyderabad-based startup expands capacity across three States; plans 40 crore investment in new factory
Private equity invests $6.1 billion in real estate in nine months
Data centres overtake offices, attracting 40% of capital; capacity set to grow 30% to 2,200 MW in 2026
Nestle sees strong growth potential for Maggi noodles in India; eyes expansion in Europe, Americas
The company, which sells noodles under the Maggi brand in India and other Asian markets, also has ambitious plans to expand the category in Europe and the Americas, its top leadership said during the earnings call for the September quarter of 2026.
She sold Denim at school; now celebrities love it
Musk is getting it wrong on India's space oligarchs. Here's why
Though Starlink boasts extensive satellite internet coverage, many potential users find the service economically unviable. The Indian government is strategically evaluating its communications infrastructure choices, potentially leaning towards homegrown solutions for critical services, which may boost Reliance's positioning against SpaceX in the market.
India-EU FTA may come into effect in January-March, says Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said the India-EU trade pact would be signed by the end of 2026, while warning that European regulations and tariffs could hurt trade
Indias petroleum product exports likely to wane during October-December 2026
Robust domestic diesel demand and industrial activity may curb export availability
UPI Surcharge Crucial For Digital Payment System: J and K Bank CEO
J and K Bank MD and CEO Amitava Chatterjee defended the surcharge on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, stating it is necessary for the system's long-term sustainability. He also discussed the shift of household savings to mutual funds, the bank's profit growth, and India's consumption-based economy.
Govt grappling with old-age protection for gig, platform workers: Official
A government official said designing old-age protection for gig and platform workers remains a challenge, particularly over mandatory contributions and pension scheme structures.
Air India board ratifies team consolidation, cost-saving plan
The Groups CEO empowered to take immediate measures to curtail costs and reduce wastage across various departments
NSDC raises Rs 4 crore through Social Stock Exchange for global skilling initiative
The funds raised will be used to provide skilling and employment opportunities to 600 youth from economically weaker other backward classes (OBC) households in Madhya Pradesh. The programme, with an estimated outlay of Rs 11.25 crore, aims to prepare 600 candidates for international employment opportunities, with 300 candidates earmarked for Japan and another 300 for Germany, the ministry of skills development and entrepreneurship said in a statement on Thursday.
Crop, fire insurance premiums fall 31%, 26.6% in H1 FY27 amid pricing pressure
In the first half of FY27, crop insurance premiums fell by 31% due to lower rates and discounts. Fire insurance premiums also decreased by 26.6% amidst price competition and discounts across the sector. Public sector insurers saw a sharper decline in crop insurance compared to general insurers, impacting overall growth. Non-life insurance premiums grew 6.1% year-on-year, and health insurance experienced a 20.2% increase.
Parliamentary panel selects 25 subjects for review of urban development, Delhi projects
Under the Department of Urban Development, the committee will examine rainwater harvesting initiatives, legacy waste remediation, functioning of Smart City Integrated Command and Control Centres, and affordable rental housing projects.
Indian Bank raises special term deposit rates by 15 bps from October 23
Indian Bank has raised rates on its 555-day Ind Grow and 777-day Ind Prosper deposit schemes by 15 basis points each, following the RBI's October repo rate increase.
India commercial insurance rates fall as capacity, competition rise
Commercial insurance rates in India decreased significantly in 2026 due to increased competition among insurers. Property and financial liability insurance rates fell for the fourth consecutive quarter, providing businesses with better terms. Cyber insurance also witnessed a decline, marking the twelfth consecutive quarter of reduced rates in the IMEA region. Insurers became more competitive, allowing businesses to negotiate premiums and coverage more effectively.
Adani group did not attempt Vizhinjam port stake sale without govt approval: V D Satheesan
Replying to an unstarred question in the Assembly recently, Satheesan said Adani Vizhinjam Port Private Limited (AVPPL) had submitted an application to the government seeking prior approval for the proposed transfer of its existing 49 per cent shareholding.
GSTN adds two e-invoicing categories for reverse charge purchases
The new RCM-DOM and RCM-IMP categories will allow eligible businesses to generate e-invoices for specified domestic purchases and imported services under reverse charge rules
Diljit Dosanjh shares a life lesson on dealing with setbacks and people who try to pull you down, saying difficult experiences can make you stronger and prepare you for better opportunities. His Instagram video comes amid a row over Delhi Police denying permission for his October 30 concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, citing security concerns and the festive season.
Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra responded with humour after an X user gave him a 20-year expiry date while suggesting that he build powerful V8 and V10 engines before his time ran out. The person also proposed a Mahindra Scorpio with a V8 engine producing 500 horsepower. In response, Mahindra said he was a little shaken by the fans confidence in predicting his lifespan and jokingly asked him to extend my warranty.
GST registration for small e-commerce sellers to begin from November 1
The simplified GST registration facility will allow small e-commerce sellers to expand across states without setting up physical offices, with detailed notifications expected soon
Retailers clocked 8 per cent sales growth in September reflecting positive consumer sentiment: RAI
October and November will offer a clearer picture of consumer demand as per the CEO of RAI
Rupee snaps eight-day winning streak as rise in crude offsets inflows
The rupee weakened to 94.83 against the dollar after eight sessions of gains as rising crude oil prices and dollar buying offset foreign inflows linked to the Jio Platforms IPO
Received gratuity after resignation or retirement? The tax-free limit for most private-sector employees is 20 lakh, but the entire payout may not be exempt. Know how gratuity tax is calculated, eligibility rules and when income tax applies.
Wall Street dumps AI for Buffetts Berkshire
For three weeks, Wall Street sold one of the markets hottest trades and bought one of its oldest. Chip stocks fell about 15 per cent. Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway rose about 7 per cent.Between October 2 and October 20, the iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) lost 15.1 per cent, while Berkshires Class B shares (BRK-B) gained 7.4 per cent, according to Yahoo Finance.On Tuesday, BRK-B closed at a record high for the first time since May 2, 2025, the day before Buffett said Greg Abel would take over as CEO.On Wednesday, both the Class B and Class A (BRK-A) shares touched new intraday records.Berkshire hits a record as chip stocks slump 15%: the rare dot-com-era signal investors are watching, and what it may mean for your portfolioThe wait was long. In those 17 months, the S&P 500 gained more than 35 per cent, and Berkshire only now got back to a record close.The recent moves have been strikingly one-sided. From October 6 to Tuesday, SOXX fell in 10 of 11 sessions, and Berkshire rose on nine of those days.On the chip sectors two worst days, October 14 and October 16, Berkshire posted two of its best gains of the run. Since October 1, the stock has mostly gone up on days when chips went down.For now, that makes Berkshire look like a hedge against the AI chip trade.Berkshire is on track to rise in 14 of its last 15 sessions. It also strung together a 10-day winning streak, its first since 2018.The gap between the two is historic too. Over the 12 sessions from October 2 through Tuesday, Berkshire beat SOXX by 22 percentage points.Yahoo Finance compared Berkshire with the PHLX Semiconductor Index going back to 1994, and found this is the widest 12-session gap since early 2010. The all-time record, set in April 2000, was close to 40 points.The gap alone is not the rarest part. The combination is. Chips fell at least 14 per cent while Berkshire gained at least 7 per cent over 12 sessions. Before this month, that last happened on October 3, 2001. Every earlier case came in 1995-96 or in 2000-01, when the dot-com bubble was bursting.History gives a mixed message from here. In the short term, chips bounced back. They were higher a week later in five of the six earlier cases, and they are rebounding on Wednesday as well. A year later, the picture was weaker: chips were lower in five of six cases, and the S&P 500 fell in four.Under Abel, Berkshire is also using its cash differently. It bought back about $4.5 billion of its own stock in the second quarter. That ended 14 straight quarters in which it sold more of its own stock than it bought, and its cash pile has come down from a record $397 billion.Buffett said on September 18 that he would step down as chairman too. The stock hit its low about two weeks later.The tech bets are changing as well. A few years ago, Apple made up nearly 45 per cent of Berkshires invested assets. Buffett was never known as a tech investor. What drew him to Apple was customer loyalty and peoples willingness to pay premium prices for iPhones, Macs and iPads, not the technology itself.In just a few months, Alphabet has become for Abel what Apple was for Buffett. Google handled roughly 90 per cent of global internet search traffic in September, which is part of the appeal. But the AI ambitions are what interest both men most. Since Alphabet added generative AI and large language models to Google Cloud, the worlds third-largest cloud platform, sales in that high-margin business have grown very fast.Abel is also looking beyond Alphabet. An October 14 filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission shows Berkshire is buying 10 million shares of Bending Spoons in a private placement at $33 a share, an investment of $330 million. It follows a $600 million investment at the companys IPO in July.The companys model has some similarity to Berkshires own. Berkshire grew to a $1 trillion market value by buying about five dozen companies, and pieces of others, and usually holding them for a long time.Bending Spoons, based in Italy, buys technology platforms and uses software, AI, price hikes and layoffs to make them leaner and to sell more subscriptions. So far it has bought AOL, Vimeo, Brightcove, Eventbrite and WeTransfer, among others. The company is already profitable and growing quickly.The next test comes with Berkshires third-quarter results, expected on Saturday, November 7.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to participate in Independence Day celebrations. Modi expressed gratitude for the invitation and acknowledged the cooperation between India and Israel on terrorism. Both leaders emphasized the importance of their long-standing relationship over the years. Netanyahu shared this conversation on social media to highlight their collaboration.
Pakistan's decades of interfaith promises fail to protect Sindh's Hindu minorities
According to The Express Tribune, the event, organised by the Christian Study Circle at a local hotel, brought together political representatives, religious figures, lawyers and social activists. Participants called for coordinated efforts to tackle religious extremism, discrimination and abuses against vulnerable communities.
Beyond accumulation: Giving every investment a clear role in your portfolio
Building a robust investment portfolio requires a clear understanding of the foundational roles played by both core and satellite investments. Many investors fall into the trap of miscategorizing satellite strategies as core assets, which disrupts the overall balance. While Specialised Investment Funds (SIFs) are becoming increasingly popular, they must be aligned with specific functions in a broader investment strategy.
Celebrity residences often showcase wealth and larger-than-life personalities, but Punjabi singing sensation Diljit Dosanjhs homes offer a glimpse into his personal journey and appreciation for understated elegance.
Russian missiles pound Kyiv as Moscow says over 800 Ukrainian drones downed
Russia conducted a bombardment of Kyiv with ballistic missiles, resulting in casualties and substantial damage. Ukrainian officials reported fatalities and injuries due to targeted strikes on civilian areas, including markets and infrastructure. Following this escalation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the lack of change in Moscow's approach toward peace negotiations. Peace talks with the U.S. and Ukraine were briefly discussed but yielded no significant progress.
