The Economic Times

On Wednesday, Melania Trump celebrated the launch of her initiative, Imperia, at the New York Stock Exchange, championing women's leadership and economic empowerment. She emphasized the significant impact women make on the global economy during her remarks. Furthermore, she brought attention to global issues like the reunification of war-separated children. Excitingly, a new docuseries centered on Melania Trump is slated for release in the upcoming fall season.

Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr announced that additional rate hikes may be necessary to manage inflation. He indicated that while economic growth is strong, inflation remains above the target of 2%. The central bank recently raised the policy rate to a range of 3.75%-4.00%. Barr's perspective contrasts with the Fed Chairman, who has not provided guidance on future rates.

Indian equities closed higher on Wednesday, with Sensex gaining 299 points and Nifty rising 118 points as crude prices eased below $99. Broader markets outperformed, while metals and banking stocks led gains amid stronger domestic growth signals and positive market breadth.

Indian equities ended higher despite volatility, with investors focusing on improving domestic growth momentum despite elevated crude prices and geopolitical risks. Three stocks are suggested by an expert citing bullish trends, improving momentum and breakout signals.

The 10-year US Treasury yield climbed to 5.058%, its highest level since July 2007, as fresh services and manufacturing data raised concerns about further Federal Reserve rate hikes. Rising yields intensified pressure on equities, particularly growth and technology stocks.

Sedemac Mechatronics may see a block deal of up to 44.3 lakh shares, representing 10% equity, as investors seek approximately Rs 1,329 crore. The reported Rs 3,000 floor price is below Wednesdays close, with shares subject to a 60-day lock-in.

The average 30-year mortgage rate reached 7.12%, its highest since May 2024, marking a significant increase. This rise follows the recent Federal Reserve interest rate hike aimed at controlling inflation. As borrowing costs climb, refinancing and home purchase applications have decreased significantly. The surge in rates has resulted in more borrowers opting for adjustable-rate mortgages. Elevated oil prices and inflationary pressures are contributing factors to the current housing market condit

HSBC has revised its target for the STOXX 600 index upwards to 680 points, driven by expectations of robust earnings growth. Additionally, the forecast for the FTSE 100 index has been adjusted to 11,390 points, buoyed by positive market trends. Enhanced business optimism and diminished geopolitical worries have supported this optimistic perspective for European equities. While Italy's market outlook was upgraded, France's forecast faced downgrading due to unfavorable projections.

The Indian rupee ended a four-day winning streak, weakening 15 paise to 95.74 per dollar as importer demand and broad dollar strength pressured the currency. Easing crude supply concerns offered early support, while markets increasingly priced in a potential RBI rate hike.

Seven healthcare stocks hit fresh 52-week highs on Wednesday, led by Anlon Healthcare, which gained 108% in a month. Kopran, Kilitch Drugs, Innova Captab and others also posted strong recent gains.

The Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority has greenlit 12 new projects across six districts, promising an investment of Rs 1,663.85 crore, which substantially enhances the real estate landscape. Notably, Lucknow leads with four projects amounting to Rs 609.35 crore and 1,972 residential units. Ghaziabad and Hapur also attract notable investments in housing. The authority stresses the importance of adherence to regulations and timely project completion, safeguarding homeowners' interests

Dolly Parton's estate has severed ties with her nephew Bryan Seaver, who previously held the head of security position. We remain unshakably resolved to fulfill her final directive to protect her family, and we refuse to be intimidated, Bryan Seaver and his team said in the response. Bryan Seaver has been accused of making threats of real-world violence to Partons staff, partners, legal and business advisors.

The Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister P K Mishra said on Wednesday that the financial sector should move beyond financing near-term growth and focus on funding the next generation of Indian enterprises. He called for a shift in the way credit is assessed, from collateral to cash flows. Mishra said India's financial system will need to mobilise large amounts of capital for infrastructure, manufacturing, urbanisation, energy transition and innovation, with different forms of capital requir

Gyanesh Kumar CEC Row: A report on internal objections within the Election Commission has triggered a political row involving CEC Gyanesh Kumar. Here is what the investigation reported, what Congress and BJP said, and how the Election Commission has responded.

The Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth Rs 810.79 crore with Bharat Dynamics Limited on Wednesday. This contract involves the procurement of 160 Satellite Smart Anti Airfield Weapons for the Indian Air Force. The weapon system, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, features 60% indigenous content. It will be deployed on aircraft such as the Jaguar, Hawk, and Su-30 MKI.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the need for BRICS nations to improve collaboration on international taxation. She proposed establishing working groups to address transfer pricing disputes, which affect developing countries disproportionately. This effort aims to shape future cross-border taxation rules through multilateral negotiations. Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava highlighted the importance of collective experience in these deliberations.

8th Pay Commission news: AIDEF has put forth demands regarding family units and pay calculations for the 8th Pay Commission. They request a minimum salary of Rs 69,000 and a higher fitment factor. The federation seeks to restore the Old Pension Scheme and change the commuted pension duration to 11 years. Additionally, they want amendments for pension-related issues covering pensioners before 2026.

On September 23, the Indian rupee ended weaker at 95.74 against the dollar amid global financial trends. Expectations of further US Federal Reserve rate hikes have increased the strength of the dollar. Asian currencies also experienced declines, with some falling 0.3%. Despite this, state-run banks helped limit the rupee's losses through dollar sales.

Tensions between the Trump administration and the United Nations refugee agency have escalated due to a new appointment. Tressa Rae Finerty, the deputy head, is seeking a waiver to engage with US officials. This situation has arisen after her nomination instead of Washington's preferred candidate, Simon Hankinson. The agency faces severe funding challenges, with contributions from the US significantly reduced.

Indian equity benchmarks ended higher on Wednesday, with Nifty rising 0.50% and Sensex gaining 0.40% as buying emerged across sectors. Metal stocks led the gains, while IT stocks lagged. Bajaj Finance and Tata Steel topped the gainers, while HCL Tech and Titan Company featured among the biggest losers.

As investors look for distinctive opportunities beyond conventional stocks and bonds, there's a palpable shift toward alternative assets. Family offices and institutional investors now delve into sectors like private credit and venture debt, aiming for unique returns. The ET Alpha Wealth Summit 2.0, set for October 8 in Mumbai, will tackle these emerging investment trends, enabling attendees to grasp potential future opportunities and the risks involved.

The Asian Development Bank has raised its FY27 India growth forecast to 7% from 6.6%, citing strong public investment and resilience in services and electronics exports. The upgrade follows Indias stronger-than-expected 7.8% GDP growth in the June quarter, supported by investment, consumption, manufacturing and services.

Hurricane Polo has rapidly escalated to a formidable Category 5 storm and is being treated 'extremely dangerous', boasting maximum sustained winds of 165 mph. It is forecasted to track along Mexico's southwestern coastline, leading to school closures in vulnerable regions as authorities have warned of possible mudslides and flash floods from intense rainfall. The US Embassy in Mexico has advised citizens to steer clear of beaches and heed local precautions.

The Big Short fame Michael Burry has disclosed a long position in copper producer Ero Copper, as supply constraints, falling inventories and limited discoveries fuel expectations of further gains in the red metal.

Rs 30 lakh income tax demand notice and India-US DTAA benefit denied to US citizen; she fights and wins case in ITAT Delhi; Know how

Bitcoin traded near $86,000 after US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded nearly $999 million in single-day inflows, their strongest in 11 months. Institutional demand and short liquidations supported the rally, while analysts watched $89,000 as a potential trigger toward $100,000.

NSE shares are set to make their much-awaited market debut on September 24, with trading scheduled on both BSE and the Metropolitan Stock Exchange of India (MSEI). The listing follows a Rs 22,562 crore IPO that drew strong demand, with the issue subscribed nearly six times and QIBs bidding nearly 13 times their quota.

Measles outbreak in US: In the United States, the measles outbreak has sparked concerns with new cases being reported at New Philadelphia airport and Wisconsin. Wisconsin has reported cases in Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Marathon and Vernon counties since August. On the other hand, hundreds of measles cases were reported in Pennsylvania too.

Kotak Alternate Asset Managers has closed its Kotak Yield & Growth Fund at Rs 5,000 crore, raised entirely from domestic investors. The Category II AIF attracted institutional investors, family offices and UHNIs, targeting private credit, real assets and selective growth opportunities.

Whirlpool of India shares surged 20% to hit the upper circuit at Rs 865.35 after reports indicated promoter Whirlpool Mauritius may sell its entire remaining 39.76% stake. The potential stake sale, reportedly involving major investors and a multinational consumer durables company, follows years of promoter stake reduction and drove strong buying interest.

British business activity weakened in September, with the services PMI falling to a three-month low while inflationary pressures intensified. Manufacturing improved modestly, but overall growth remained subdued. Weak hiring and business confidence, alongside higher borrowing costs, complicate the governments outlook ahead of the October budget and increase pressure on the Bank of England.

The Ministry of Railways has announced the Unified Pension Scheme rules for employees covered under the National Pension System. Employees appointed after January 1, 2004, are eligible for this scheme and will contribute 10% of their basic pay. A minimum pension of Rs 10,000 is assured after completing ten years of service. Additionally, employees can opt for voluntary retirement after 20 years of service.

State-run oil marketing companies IOC, BPCL and HPCL are facing losses of about Rs 8 a litre on petrol and Rs 9 on diesel as crude prices surge while domestic fuel prices remain unchanged, rating agency ICRA said. The daily loss is estimated at Rs 530 crore, while LPG under-recoveries are around Rs 300 per cylinder.

Singapores attempt to boost US stock trading during Asian hours has seen subdued volumes, highlighting challenges from competing products, limited investor familiarity and growing efforts to enable round-the-clock access to US equities.

State Bank of India Chairman Challa Sreenivasulu Setty emphasized the role of banking institutions in supporting sunrise sectors. He identified key areas such as renewables, semiconductors, and green hydrogen as pivotal for future investments. Setty highlighted the necessity for financial institutions to evolve alongside these capital-intensive markets. The conclave aims to provide insights for sustaining economic growth and competitiveness.

Xi Jinping's upcoming visit marks the first Chinese state visit to the United States since 2015. US-China trade policies initiated in 2018 have not achieved their intended goals, despite some superficial successes. China's trade position has strengthened, and it continues to be a leading manufacturer and exporter. US tariffs and export controls have led to unintended consequences that impact American companies and consumers.

AceVector, the parent company of Snapdeal, will launch its IPO on September 25 with a price band of Rs 3032 per share. The issue comprises a fresh issue of Rs 287 crore and an OFS of up to 4.16 crore shares. The IPO will close on September 29, with the anchor book opening on September 24.

Akash Anand, once seen as the political successor of Mayawati, has faced significant setbacks in his career. After a series of promotions, he was removed from key responsibilities multiple times since 2024. Mayawati recently stated that Anand's conduct post-marriage has influenced her decision to separate him from the party. Furthermore, his father-in-law's political troubles have contributed to this decision.

A Will plays a crucial role in outlining how assets will be allocated following an individual's death, which can lead to family disputes if disagreements arise about the testator's intentions. To facilitate property transfers, it is wise to gather important documents such as a no-objection affidavit and release deed. Keeping mutation records up to date and securing an encumbrance certificate is vital for tax purposes.

Due to erratic monsoon patterns, farmers in India are cutting back on their investments in pesticides, fertilizers, and seeds. The irregular rainfall is posing serious challenges to crop yields this year, compelling them to be cautious about their expenses. Agrochemical market players are witnessing a decline in demand for crop protection products, leading experts to advocate for consolidation in the congested farm input market to better manage these uncertainties.

European shares rose on Wednesday as falling oil prices boosted sentiment, while investors awaited eurozone PMI data for clues on economic health. Aerospace and defence stocks led gains. KWS fell after weaker-than-expected annual sales, while Adyen slipped following its CFO appointment. European energy stocks gained despite lower crude prices.

The Supreme Court is set to examine the regulatory power of the Bar Council of India over law colleges. The court questioned the expertise of the BCI in managing legal education effectively. A petition challenges the appointment and extended tenure of BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra. The BCI has responded by clarifying its trustees' terms and conditions following concerns.

Instamart is expanding its battery-swapping stations network to encourage electric vehicle use in last-mile delivery. The improvements are part of partnerships with Yulu and Yuma Energy to facilitate affordable access and reduce downtime. Recently, the first station was opened in Bengaluru, enhancing efficiency for delivery partners. Instamart is offering rental cashback incentives for using Yulu electric two-wheelers to lower costs.

A recent collaboration between IIT Kharagpur and upGrad reveals a dramatic increase in demand for AI executive programmes aimed at experienced tech professionals. In just a few months, the initiative has broadened its curriculum from four to seven targeted courses. With participants enrolling from diverse locations, the landscape of AI training is shifting towards practical, role-oriented education, underscoring the necessity for ongoing skill development in an AI-driven job market.

Grab Holdings executives purchased over $30 million in shares to boost investor confidence following a 50% stock decline. The sell-off occurred after Grab announced plans to acquire buy-now-pay-later provider Atome Financial in a deal valuing it up to $4.5 billion, alongside a $900 million share buyback.

The Election Commission has rejected suggestions of a split within the poll body over the nationwide Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, saying all major decisions over the past year were taken unanimously. The clarification follows reports that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised multiple objections during internal deliberations on voter deletions, registration forms and database management.