The Times of India

Indian airlines are increasing ticket prices due to soaring aviation fuel costs, driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions. Akasa Air, following Air India and IndiGo, will implement fuel surcharges from March 15th, ranging from Rs 199 to Rs 1,300.

Pakistan grapples with an escalating economic crisis as Middle East conflict disrupts vital oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Soaring fuel prices are impacting farmers, urban commuters, and households, forcing difficult choices. With the nation already financially strained, prolonged energy shortages threaten to destabilize its economy further, affecting daily life and traditional celebrations.

Iran has strategically prepared to leverage the Strait of Hormuz, employing asymmetric warfare with drones and missiles to disrupt global oil flows. This approach, learned from past conflicts, aims to inflict economic pain and pressure the US, rather than engage in direct confrontation. The strategy focuses on survival and demonstrating that coercion cannot force compliance.

India is exploring increased production of dimethyl ether (DME) as an alternative to LPG amid global oil market disruptions. A government research institute has established a pilot plant and plans to scale up DME output, a fuel scientists say can be used with existing LPG infrastructure, addressing supply challenges and rising prices.

Get ready for pricier flights as Middle East tensions escalate, driving up jet fuel costs significantly. Experts warn of inevitable fare hikes, especially on long-haul international routes, with some airlines already adjusting prices. Travelers are advised to book early and remain flexible to mitigate rising costs.

India's industrial sector faces disruption as commercial LPG shortages impact factory operations. Manufacturers report production hurdles, particularly in brazing and paint shops, while canteens are paring back menus. Companies are turning to electric alternatives and even firewood to cope with the 'hand-to-mouth' supply situation, with government intervention underway to prioritize household needs.

India is extending visas for foreign nationals affected by the Middle East conflict. Overstay penalties will be waived for those delayed until February 28. Exit permits will be issued free of charge. Temporary Landing Permits are also being granted to diverted flights. This comes as the conflict escalates, impacting regional travel and energy supplies.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal met with South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-Koo to bolster economic ties, boost investments, and deepen supply-chain collaboration. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade, manufacturing, and exports, aiming for a mutually beneficial economic partnership. South Korea is a significant investor in India, with bilateral trade projected to reach $50 billion by 2030.

A TikTok US joint venture deal is expected to generate nearly $10 billion in payments for the Trump administration, according to The Wall Street Journal. This fee, paid by investors friendly to the administration, is part of an arrangement for them to control TikTok's US operations.

Iran has granted safe passage to two India-flagged LPG carriers through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy route. This assurance comes from Iran's Ambassador to India, who emphasized the strong friendship and shared interests between the two nations. The move occurs amidst regional tensions and follows Iran's criticism of US policy on Russian oil imports.

Amidst escalating Iran vs US-Israel war, Standard Chartered clarified reports of a Dubai office evacuation, stating it extended existing work-from-home measures as a precaution. The bank emphasised its regional operations remain active. This comes as other financial institutions also implement safety protocols, highlighting Dubai's crucial role as a financial hub facing geopolitical risks.

India is temporarily reviving kerosene and coal for cooking as Middle East disruptions strain LPG supply chains. The nation is vulnerable due to significant energy imports transiting the Strait of Hormuz, forcing commercial users to switch to alternate fuels while new LPG cargoes are arranged.

The numbers are staggering: on February 27 the combined market capitalisation of BSE-listed companies was Rs 46,325,200.41 crore. As of March 13, 2025, it has fallen to Rs 42,939,960.29 crore. Thats a loss of almost Rs 33 lakh crore in investor wealth over a span of two weeks and nine trading sessions!

Gold prices saw a significant dip on Friday, with futures trade closing at Rs 1.59 lakh per 10 grams. This decline was influenced by weaker international trends and a stronger US dollar. Analysts highlight the strengthening dollar as a key pressure point, while geopolitical risks and economic signals remain under close observation by traders.

President Trump's stance on rising oil prices has shifted, now framing them as beneficial for the US as a major oil producer. This change follows strikes against Iran, which triggered a surge in global oil and petrol prices, impacting the Strait of Hormuz. The administration is grappling with economic consequences and political considerations ahead of midterm elections.

India's IT stocks are facing an eighth consecutive week of losses, wiping out significant market value and sparking debate. While some fear AI's disruptive impact, others see a buying opportunity amid historical rebounds. Foreign investors have exited, but a domestic fund is increasing its IT holdings, betting on a recovery.

The scarcity of commercial LPG has emerged after shipments from the Gulf region were disrupted amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. India relies heavily on imports from this region for its LPG requirements.

Global oil markets are reeling from Middle East tensions, with the Strait of Hormuz facing disruptions. Nations like India are securing Russian crude, while the US and other IEA members release emergency reserves. China eyes its reserves and Russia, as countries worldwide implement measures to stabilize prices and ensure supply.

US envoy Sergio Gor voiced grave concerns over escalating tensions at the Strait of Hormuz, warning of potential global oil supply disruptions. He highlighted Iran's actions targeting commercial vessels, including those with Indian casualties, and stressed India's crucial role in maintaining stable oil prices.

The economies included in the investigation are China, the European Union, Singapore, Switzerland, Norway, Indonesia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam, Taiwan, Bangladesh, Mexico, Japan and India.

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are seeing intraday weakness and a sell on rise strategy makes sense, says Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst - Commodity and Currency, LKP Securities.