The Times of India

AU Small Finance Bank posted a robust Rs 667.66 crore net profit for the December 2025 quarter, a 26.3% jump year-on-year. This growth was fueled by strong core earnings and reduced credit costs, despite higher operating expenses. The bank also announced key leadership changes, including new director appointments and a deputy CEO continuation.

Gold price prediction today: Maneesh Sharma of Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers is of the view that while gold prices may continue to rise in the near term, silver prices are expected to see some volatility.

Asian markets tumbled Wednesday, mirroring a sharp US sell-off and escalating geopolitical tensions. Investors grew anxious as US foreign policy concerns and a Danish pension fund's exit from Treasuries unsettled global bond markets. Gold, however, reached an all-time high amid the growing unease and potential for further market disruptions.

Mark Carney's net worth: The Canadian PM's wealth stems from his extensive career in global finance and central banking. His financial standing is modest compared to global elites. Carney's transition to Prime Minister of Canada highlights a shift towards public service. Discussions around his wealth focus on transparency and his qualifications.

Indian Oil Corporation is ready to process Venezuelan crude if supplies resume, recalling past imports. The company's robust refineries can handle the oil, according to its chairman. This comes amid geopolitical shifts and India's strong economic growth, which attracts global business interest. IOCL continues to invest in the energy sector.

The Indian rupee hit a new low of 91.20 against the US dollar on Wednesday, extending its downward trend. This depreciation is attributed to strong dollar demand from metal importers, continued foreign fund outflows, and geopolitical uncertainties. The domestic stock market's sluggish performance also contributed to the rupee's decline.

Stock market today: Weighed down by weak global cues, Indian equity benchmarks Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, opened in red on Wednesday after over 1% declines in the Tuesday session. While Nifty50 was below 25,200, BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points.

Global markets experienced a significant downturn Tuesday, with US indices suffering their worst day in three months following President Trump's new tariff threats against Europe. This sparked a broad sell-off, pushing gold higher and impacting Bitcoin. Indian markets also mirrored the global decline, with both Nifty and Sensex falling over 1%.

Budget 2026 expectations: India does not need a larger financial system. It needs a system where liquidity is deeper.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw clarified that the World Economic Forum in Davos serves as a platform for idea exchange, not formal trade negotiations. India is actively engaged with global economies on various fronts, and its economic growth and renewable energy initiatives are key discussion points at the event.

Stock market recommendations: Mehul Kothari of Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers recommends buying Bajaj Auto, Balkrishna Industries, and Tata Elxsi as top stock picks for today:

Gold and silver prices surged to record highs on Tuesday, both domestically and internationally. This surge was attributed to an uncertain political and economic climate, a weaker dollar, and increasing industrial demand for silver. Analysts suggest that potential interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve could further fuel this upward trend in bullion prices.

The Indian rupee dipped to a one-month low against the dollar on Tuesday, closing at 90.98. This marks the fifth consecutive session of weakening, fueled by escalating geopolitical tensions and a downturn in domestic equity markets. Despite efforts to prevent a record low, persistent dollar demand and global uncertainty continue to pressure the currency.

Inspira Global, owner of Chinese Wok, is acquiring Restaurant Brands Asia (RBA), the operator of Burger King India. This significant deal sees Everstone Capital exiting RBA with a Rs 460 crore stake sale. Inspira plans substantial capital infusion, aiming to bolster its presence in the fast-growing quick-service restaurant sector and expand its brand portfolio.

Stock market crash: Indian equity benchmarks, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, closed at over three-month lows after a broad selloff driven by disappointing earnings, renewed global trade risks and sustained foreign investor outflows.

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China used its platform at the World Economic Forum in Davos to warn that trade and tariff wars help no one and risk deepening global economic tensions. Vice-Premier He Lifeng called for cooperation over isolation, saying China would open its economy further and focus on boosting domestic demand, even as global trade disputes escalate under US President Donald Trumps expanded tariff policies.

Silver has surged over 35% in early 2026, surpassing Rs 3 lakh per kg on MCX futures, driven by supply constraints and geopolitical tensions. Analysts see a perfect storm of industrial scarcity and global risks, with potential for further upside despite early signs of fatigue and calls for profit-taking.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen warned the US against imposing tariffs on European allies over Greenland, calling it a mistake that could damage partnerships. She emphasized that existing trade deals must be honored and offered increased European investment and cooperation on Arctic security, urging Europe to adapt to global changes.

Central government employees and pensioners await the 8th Pay Commission's recommendations on revised salaries and pensions. The commission, led by Ranjana Prakash Desai, will finalize a fitment factor, a multiplier crucial for determining salary hikes. Projections show significant increases based on potential fitment factors ranging from 2.15 to 2.86.

The government has enacted significant direct tax reforms to boost investment and ease compliance. Key changes include reclassifying AIF securities as capital assets, extending startup tax benefits until 2030, and introducing presumptive tax for non-resident electronics service providers. Inland vessels now qualify for the Tonnage Tax Scheme.

Oman's motor insurance sector is undergoing a major reform, mandating insurers to compensate drivers for delayed car repairs beyond a 30-day deadline. This groundbreaking move, a first in the Gulf, also introduces staged payments for workshops and expanded coverage for natural disasters. Policyholders now have more protection and flexibility, potentially setting a new regional standard.

India stands to gain from the US-EU trade friction as the EU finalizes its Free Trade Agreement with New Delhi. With US tariffs impacting European exports, the bloc may accelerate ties with India. Experts suggest this could lead to a more favorable deal and faster ratification, potentially boosting Indian exports amid global trade uncertainties.

Indian businesses anticipate a GST-like overhaul of customs duties in Budget 2026, seeking rationalized rates, fewer slabs, and a single-window clearance system. Key demands include streamlined AEO certification and a formal charter for DRI investigations, aiming to resolve Rs 1.52 lakh crore stuck in customs disputes.

Budget 2026 income tax expectations: Salaried taxpayers are looking at FM Nirmala Sitharaman to provide further relief under the new income tax regime, especially in the form of higher standard deduction limit.

Salesforce is enhancing its AI approach for businesses. Companies are finding it hard to use generative AI reliably. Salesforce is combining flexible AI with strict rules. This ensures systems work perfectly for critical tasks. The focus is shifting to real business results. 2026 is seen as a key year for enterprise AI adoption. The goal is to deliver consistent value.