The Times of India News

India's economic growth forecast for this year has been boosted to 7.2% by the Asian Development Bank, a significant upgrade from its previous projection. This upward revision is attributed to a stronger third-quarter performance, with tax cuts playing a key role in stimulating consumer spending. The ADB also anticipates a robust regional economic expansion.

IndiGo's chairman, Vikram Singh Mehta, apologized for recent flight disruptions, denying they were deliberate. He stated external experts will identify root causes to prevent future chaos. Mehta clarified that the airline followed new pilot rest rules and did not compromise safety. A combination of internal and external factors, not intentional actions, pushed systems beyond limits, causing cancellations.

US President Donald Trump has launched the 'Trump Gold Card,' a new immigration initiative offering a direct path to citizenship for qualified individuals. This program aims to retain invaluable talent for American companies, with applicants potentially contributing billions to the US Treasury. Earlier proposals indicated significant financial contributions for this expedited residency pathway.

The Federal Reserve's FOMC reduced its key interest rate by 25 basis points, bringing it to a near three-year low. This move aims to bolster the US economy amidst deteriorating employment conditions, though concerns about inflation persist due to trade tariffs.

In a groundbreaking achievement for sustainable transit, Indian Railways has unveiled its inaugural hydrogen-powered train. This pioneering 'Made in India' creation, the longest globally on a Broad Gauge, features a robust 10-coach design with a powerful output of 2,400 kW. With zero emissions, this innovation is a game changer for eco-friendly travel, paving the way for a cleaner, greener tomorrow.

As India enters pivotal trade talks with the United States, experts are advising a careful approach regarding the potential reduction of tariffs on American agricultural exports. There is a recommendation for New Delhi to hold off on any commitments until the US Supreme Court has ruled on tariff authority.

India has rolled out tougher pilot duty regulations in a bid to enhance safety standards, yet this has thrown a wrench into IndiGo's operations, affecting countless travelers. According to IATA's Willie Walsh, the initial turmoil can be traced back to inadequate preparation, suggesting that as time passes, the system will find its rhythm again.

India's investment landscape is transforming, with mutual fund assets projected to surpass Rs 300 lakh crore by 2035. Mass and mass-affluent investors outside major cities are driving this growth, alongside a rise in long-term investment habits. Younger generations and women are increasingly participating, fueled by digital platforms, indicating a more inclusive and resilient domestic investor base.

The IMF chief urges China to rebalance its economy, warning that relying solely on exports is unsustainable for its size and risks global trade friction. Despite US tariffs, China's exports are growing, with its trade surplus exceeding $1 trillion. Weak domestic demand and property woes hinder a shift towards consumer spending, prompting concerns from trading partners.

Indian electronics industry leaders are urging the government to permit joint ventures with Chinese firms under the automatic route, capping their equity at 26%. This move aims to boost advanced component manufacturing by replacing case-by-case approvals with clear guidelines, potentially unlocking significant FDI.

Elon Musk downplayed the achievements of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a cost-cutting initiative he led for Donald Trump, stating it achieved only limited gains before folding. Musk expressed regret over the role, citing backlash against him and Tesla, and indicated he would not repeat the experience.

US stocks saw minimal movement Wednesday morning as investors awaited the Federal Reserve's policy announcement. While the S&P 500 and Nasdaq edged down, the Dow remained flat. Traders are anticipating a third interest rate cut this year, with attention also on future rate guidance.

India is a tough nut but offers 'best' proposals in trade talks with the US, according to USTR Jamieson Greer. Discussions are underway for a bilateral trade agreement, aiming to resolve tariff issues and boost trade to $500 billion by 2030. Both nations are negotiating a framework deal and a comprehensive agreement.

The National Stock Exchange has introduced a 15-minute pre-open session for equity derivatives, a significant structural change aimed at enhancing stability and transparency. This move follows concerns over retail trader losses and volatility in India's hyperactive derivatives market, with the goal of improving price discovery and preventing erratic trades.

Gold prices experienced a mixed trend on Tuesday, with domestic futures seeing a slight increase while international rates declined. February gold futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange rose by Rs 173 to Rs 1,30,280 per 10 grams. Meanwhile, Comex gold for the same month traded marginally lower at $4,234.3 an ounce.

Elon Musk's Starlink is set to launch satellite internet in India, with prices expected between Rs 2,500-3,500 monthly for consumers. The company has secured necessary licenses for various sectors, though official pricing awaits regulatory approvals and spectrum allocation.

Silver futures hit a new record high on Wednesday, fueled by investor optimism for US Federal Reserve rate cuts and tight supply. Gold prices also saw a slight increase. Analysts point to expectations of a 25-basis-point rate reduction, despite persistent inflation concerns, as a key driver for silver's surge. Global markets are closely watching the Fed's decision.

India and the European Union are moving closer to a free trade agreement. A preliminary outline is ready. Both sides are keen on an early deal. Discussions have been positive. An announcement on the agreement's conclusion is anticipated soon. Negotiations cover trade in goods and services, investment, and intellectual property. This pact could boost bilateral trade significantly.

Nvidia is set to introduce a pioneering location verification tool for its AI chips, an initiative influenced by US calls to restrict advanced technology sales to certain countries. This optional software update, utilizing state-of-the-art confidential computing, will monitor chip activity and location through the analysis of communication delays.

India and the US are actively pursuing a bilateral trade agreement, with a US delegation currently in Delhi for crucial discussions. Both nations aim to finalize the initial phase of the deal, addressing tariff challenges for Indian exporters. This progress follows recent talks and underscores the commitment to boosting bilateral trade significantly.

Forget quick tips; a decade-long investment requires a structured approach. The article outlines a five-step checklist, starting with fund category based on goals and risk tolerance. It emphasizes long-term track records, consistent performance, behavior during market downturns, and finally, costs and fund hygiene.

IndiGo faces potential competition law investigation following thousands of flight cancellations due to crew shortages. India's competition watchdog is considering probing the airline for misusing its dominant market position.

SpiceJet is significantly boosting its winter operations, adding up to 100 daily flights to meet surging demand amid IndiGo's widespread cancellations. This expansion, supported by reactivated aircraft, aims to capitalize on market gaps. IndiGo's pilot shortage led to over 5,000 flight cancellations and a government-mandated schedule reduction, creating an opportunity for competitors and potentially rebalancing market share.

Despite recent operational disruptions and flight cancellations, HSBC maintains a 'Buy' rating on InterGlobe Aviation, citing the airline's strong fundamentals and cost advantage over rivals. While acknowledging increased expenses and temporary reputational damage, the brokerage believes the airline's long-term prospects remain intact, with no structural damage to its competitive position.

Amazon has pledged a massive $35 billion investment in India by 2030, building on its existing $40 billion. This significant capital infusion will focus on AI-driven digitization, boosting exports to $80 billion, and creating one million new jobs. The move follows Microsoft's substantial AI investment announcement, signaling a major tech push in the country.

E-commerce platform Meesho debuted on Dalal Street after a Rs 5,421.20 crore IPO, which saw an overall subscription of 79 times. The company reported strong revenue growth and narrowing EBITDA losses in FY25, with significant user expansion outside major cities. Despite positive operational metrics, risks related to cash-on-delivery and competition persist.

Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to trade sideways as analysts anticipate a Federal Reserve rate cut already priced in. Silver, however, shows a positive bias, nearing all-time highs driven by industrial demand and tightening inventories. Investors are closely watching the Fed meeting for potential volatility, while China continues to boost its gold reserves.

The government is launching a pilot project to link subsidized fertilizer allocation to farmers' land size, aiming to curb diversion and pilferage. This initiative comes as India faces high chemical nutrient use impacting soil health. Meanwhile, fertilizer imports are projected to rise significantly due to increased domestic demand.

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