21 C 
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.
SBI weighs data leak impact, alerts cyber cover provider
SBI may seek a claim under a Rs 1,425-crore cyber insurance policy with Oriental Insurance following a suspected leak of customer data, people familiar with the matter told ET. SBI is in the process of notifying the insurer about the claim, said a person aware of the development.
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.
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.
Jio Platforms IPO Oversubscribed 5.57 Times, Draws Rs 3.73 Lakh Crore Demand
Jio Platforms Ltd's Rs 30,213-crore initial public offering (IPO) has garnered bids worth Rs 3.73 lakh crore, achieving a subscription rate of 5.57 times the shares on offer, driven by robust institutional and anchor investor demand.
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.
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.
Urea imports surge 40% despite push to cut chemical fertilisers
Total urea imports in the April-September period rose to 5.589 million tonnes from 3.979 million tonnes in the first half of last fiscal year. Local sales fell 4.1% to 18.52 million tonnes. The sales were down primarily due to poor rainfall in large parts of the country deterring farmers from spending on soil nutrients, said a senior executive at a large urea firm.
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.
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.
Storage in Indias key reservoirs drops further to 67% of capacity this week
Water level in only one of the five regions above 80 per cent as situation in AP and Tamil Nadu turns worrisome
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.
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
Wednesday Season 3 has wrapped filming and the upcoming season will follow the aftermath of Enid Sinclairs transformation into an alpha werewolf, which forced her to flee towards the Canadian border, while Wednesday Addams sets out to find her. The story will also explore the mystery surrounding Wednesdays missing aunt, Ophelia, played by Eva Green.
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
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.
Sold a property at a loss? Income tax rules allow you to offset certain property losses against capital gains from shares and mutual funds. Know the rules for short-term and long-term losses, the eight-year carry-forward limit and key tax conditions.
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
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
Indian Bank raises deposit rates by 15 basis points
Indian Bank managing director Binod Kumar had said earlier that the bank does not have surplus liquidity as it shed Rs 10,000 crore of bulk deposits and slowed term deposits mobilisation during the second quarter while it raised $2.3 billion (about Rs 21,000 crore) of foreign currency non-resident-bank (FCNR-B) deposits using the regulatory window.
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.
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.
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.
Xbox Cloud Playtime launched: What is it, pricing, and everything else you need to know
Microsoft has unveiled a groundbreaking service called Xbox Cloud Playtime, enabling gamers to stream titles without needing a Game Pass subscription. Currently in preview for Xbox Insiders, it is set for a broader release in November. Players can buy cloud playtime in several hour increments, allowing them to stream eligible games on compatible devices. Due to increasing costs, restrictions have been placed on cloud gaming for Game Pass users.
India permits 6,500 tonnes of silver imports despite weak demand
India has permitted imports of around 6,500 metric tons of silver over six months despite weak domestic demand, a move expected to ease local premiums while supporting global prices.
'The last thing I want': Trump downplays Witkoffs humanitarian praise for Putin as Europe erupts
Naman Dhir's unbeaten 42 off 15 balls helped India complete their highest successful T20 chase against New Zealand, earning praise from captain Shreyas Iyer for his composure and all-round options. Dhir's breakthrough comes after he nearly quit cricket in 2022 to move to Canada, before his father's encouragement led him to continue, make his Ranji Trophy debut and earn an IPL opportunity.
Adani Ports expands presence by incorporating subsidiary in Oman
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited has established a wholly owned subsidiary named Indian Ocean Gateway Terminal in Oman. This new entity aims to conduct offshore operations locally, aligning with the company's strategic expansion as a global transport operator. Adani International Ports Holdings Pte. Ltd. holds 100 percent of the subsidiary's shares. The incorporation involves a total share capital of OMR 500,000 with 100 shares of OMR 5,000 each.
Sydney Sweeneys mansion has space for 6 boats
American poet and meditation teacher Stephen Levine believed that trying to control everything can leave us tense and unhappy. In an interview with Randy Peyser, he explained that conscious living means paying attention to the present with compassion. Levine also distinguished happiness from joy, calling the latter a birthright. His message encourages accepting uncertainty and living more fully instead of fighting what we cannot control.
Post office deposits, bank FDs and arbitrage funds differ in post-tax returns, liquidity and risk. A 5 lakh investment could earn more through arbitrage funds in higher tax brackets, but holding period, taxation and capital safety matter.
Darjeeling toy train joyrides ferry 12,000 passengers, earn Rs 1.41 crore in 3 weeks
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway reported record passenger numbers during the first three weeks of October. The heritage railway generated significant revenue from joyride services offered to tourists. Special joyrides were introduced to facilitate the increased tourist numbers and enhance their experiences. Both steam and diesel locomotives operate on selected routes, showcasing the scenic beauty of Darjeeling. This initiative caters to the growing interest in heritage train journeys among visitors.
Pizza Hut Indias restaurant sales fall 7% in FY26; EBITDA margin turns negative
Pizza Hut India reported a 7% decline in restaurant sales to 5,065 million in FY26. Restaurant EBITDA margin improved to -2.8% in Q2 FY27 from -3.6% in the previous quarter. Despite a recovery in quarterly sales, the annual average daily sales fell to 41,000 in FY26. Sales figures revealed fluctuations, peaking at 5,450 million in FY25. The company aims to recover from negative margins observed in recent fiscal years.
Technogym founder Nerio Alessandri is looking to expand the Italian fitness and wellness company's presence in India, where fitness facility membership remains below 1% of the population. Founded in 1983, Technogym has grown from a garage startup into a global brand serving athletes, gyms, luxury hotels and households.
India's real estate sector attracted private equity (PE) investments worth USD 6.1 billion across 55 deals in the first nine months of 2026, with data centres emerging as the largest investment destination, accounting for 40 per cent of total inflows, according to a FICCI-Anarock report. The report titled
ICICI Bank to increase savings account cash transaction charges from December 1: Who will pay more?
ICICI Bank will increase select savings account cash transaction charges from December 1, 2026, while retaining free monthly limits. Customers exceeding these limits will pay more.
Sonu Sood to earn Rs 3.52 crore in rent in 5 yrs
Civic Studios announces three releases spanning climate, sex education and womens boxing
Civic Studios is set to release three films focused on important social issues in the coming months. Spice & Soul is their first climate microdrama which showcases food waste and local sourcing. Little Thomas aims to provide sex education through a child's perspective and will be released in Indian cinemas. In The Shadows, a biopic about boxer Ramla Ali, explores themes of identity and resilience.
How EPFO can cut penalty for late PF contribution
India-EU trade deal could become operational in early-2027, Piyush Goyal says
Piyush Goyal, Indias trade minister, has revealed that a free-trade agreement with the European Union is on the horizon, with expectations to finalize it by year's end. Set to become operational within four to five months after signing, this deal aims to improve market access and foster investment collaborations between India and the 27 EU member states.
Mumbai-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Sleeper to begin operations on November 1
India will launch its second Vande Bharat sleeper train service between Mumbai and Bengaluru on November 1. This service aims to reduce travel time by nearly eight hours, covering the 1,118-km distance in about 16 hours. The train will feature 16 air-conditioned coaches, offering 823 berths for passengers' comfort. Fares for the sleeper service will be determined based on a per-kilometer structure, which is competitive with global rates.
Government names Sunil Kumar ONGC chairman; to succeed Arun Singh in December
Sunil Kumar has been appointed as chairman of ONGC, succeeding Arun Singh, effective December 7. Kumars appointment follows recommendations from a selection committee that interviewed various candidates. He enters the role at a time of turmoil in the global energy market and heightened oil and gas prices. Singhs tenure saw improved profits and strategic partnerships that bolstered ONGC's output and operations.
6,500 metric tons incoming in next six months: India opens festive floodgates for silver
The increased allocation could support international silver prices while bringing down elevated premiums in India, where tight supplies have pushed local prices above official domestic benchmarks.
Have 10 lakh set aside for emergencies? Here's how to divide it between savings accounts, fixed deposits and liquid mutual funds to balance easy withdrawals, capital safety and returns, along with key differences in taxation and liquidity.
Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang has revealed how he struggled to contact TSMC founder Morris Chang in the late 1990s when his young company needed a manufacturer for its graphics chips. After repeated phone calls went unanswered, Huang wrote Chang a lengthy letter, eventually receiving an unexpected call that opened the door to a lasting business relationship.
Draft GST return forms to be put up on Nov 1 for public comments
GST Councils recommendations includes various measures to streamline return filing process, to minimize mismatches in liability and input tax credit (ITC) in returns
US visitor visa wait hits 12 months in India
Indian applicants seeking US business and tourist visas may have to wait up to 12 months for the next available interview appointment in Mumbai. Hyderabad follows with a 10.5-month wait, while New Delhi has an estimated wait of 11 months, according to the departments Global Visa Wait Times update dated October 21.Kolkata applicants face an estimated 8.5-month wait for the next available appointment, while Chennai has a 7.5-month wait. Mumbai also records the highest average wait time among the five cities at 12.5 months, measured from visa fee payment to the interview date in the previous month.Also Read: Australias new arrival control law raises questions for students and workers returning homeThe waiting period varies considerably by visa category. Applicants seeking student and exchange visitor visas generally face shorter queues, while appointment availability for petition-based work visas differs across consular posts.City-wise US visa appointment wait timesIndian cityVisitor visa (B1/B2): Average waitNext available visitor visa slotStudent/exchange visa (F, M, J)Petition-based work visa (H, L, O, P, Q)Mumbai12.5 months12 months4 months2 monthsHyderabad10.5 months10.5 months1 month6.5 monthsNew Delhi7 months11 months3 months3.5 monthsKolkata8.5 months8.5 months2.5 months1 monthChennai7.5 months7.5 months3.5 months2.5 monthsSource: US Department of State, Global Visa Wait Times, updated October 21, 2026.Student visa slots available soonerThe data shows that applicants seeking F, M and J visas, which cover student and exchange visitor categories, generally face shorter waits than visitor visa applicants.Also Read: Norway named best among National Geographic's world travel map for 2027; Indian city among the topHyderabad has the shortest estimated wait in this category at one month, followed by Kolkata at 2.5 months. New Delhi applicants face a three-month wait, while Chennai and Mumbai have estimated waits of 3.5 months and four months, respectively.For petition-based visas, including H, L, O, P and Q categories, Kolkata has the shortest estimated wait at one month. Mumbai follows at two months, while Chennai and New Delhi have waits of 2.5 months and 3.5 months, respectively. Hyderabad has the longest wait in this category at 6.5 months.The figures cover grouped visa categories and should not be interpreted as separate estimates for individual classifications such as H-1B or L-1 visas.Although, the state department cautions that these estimates do not guarantee an appointment within a specified period. Embassies and consulates release additional slots regularly, and applicants who have already scheduled interviews can check the appointment system for earlier dates.The published estimates also exclude appointments for applicants who qualify for an in-person interview waiver. Applicants are advised to check the relevant US embassy or consulate website for updated availability and appointment instructions.
88% Indian cos want FDEs by 2030, only 1% fit bill
Mahindra Lifespaces April-September pre-sales rise 66% to Rs 1,988 crore
Mahindra Lifespace Developers reported a 66% increase in residential pre-sales, reaching Rs 1,988 crore in H1 FY27. The company added Rs 7,100 crore in gross development value during the same period, showing strong demand. However, the second quarter saw a decline in profit after tax to Rs 16 crore from Rs 48 crore last year. The revenue from the integrated cities and industrial clusters also fell to Rs 63 crore.
Giannis Antetokounmpo reportedly invested $70 million in real estate in 2025
Since October 2025, NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has strategically invested approximately $70 million in various real estate ventures. His family's company, Ante, has facilitated several significant purchases, including apartment complexes in Wisconsin, Brooklyn, and Chicago. Notably, he recently acquired a lavish $13.5 million mansion in Pinecrest, Florida, after joining the Miami Heat. These investments reflect Antetokounmpo's commitment to expanding his financial portfolio beyond basketball income.
