The Economic Times

Indian business families are increasingly adding fluidity clauses to family settlement deeds, allowing succession, ownership and management arrangements to be revisited as circumstances change. Advisers say structured flexibility can accommodate generational, business and regulatory changes while reducing future disputes.

Tata Trusts chairman Noel Tata has told the Maharashtra Charity Commissioner that the 1989 transfer of 833 Tata Sons shares from the Navajbai Ratan Tata Trust complied with prevailing laws. The regulator will examine his response before deciding on an inquiry.

Larsen & Toubro is transferring its data centre and cloud services business to Vyoma.AI. This significant restructuring involves a 1,400 crore slump sale agreement between the two entities. The deal proceeds will be paid through the issuance of fully paid-up equity shares. Additionally, L&T will transfer its entire stake in L&T Network Services Pvt Ltd. This transfer to Vyoma.AI is valued at 30 crore and also paid via equity shares.

African proverb of the day, Even the best cooking pot will not produce food, explains why talent, skills, education, money and resources cannot create success without action. The proverb compares potential with an empty pot and effort with the ingredients and fire needed to prepare food. It teaches planning, responsibility, initiative, hard work and execution as necessary steps towards achieving goals.

The United States has urged Pakistan to improve fiscal transparency measures. Pakistan must subject military and intelligence budgets to public oversight. Information on government debt obligations, including state-owned enterprises, needs disclosure. The US report noted Pakistan did not publish its executive budget proposal promptly. This initiative supports appropriate use of US taxpayer funds and champions transparency.

In an unexpected move, Brad Lightcap, an instrumental executive at OpenAI, announced his departure to chase fresh opportunities. Since joining in 2018, he has been vital in shaping the company's enterprise business alongside Sam Altman. Despite leaving, Lightcap maintains a strong faith in OpenAI's vision and intends to assist the team as he ventures into new projects.

Quote of the day by Chris Hemsworth offers a warm reminder that heroism often begins at home. The people who influence us most may not realize the extent of their impact because they are simply living their lives. Their sacrifices can seem ordinary to them while becoming defining lessons for their children. A parent's work ethic can inspire ambition. Their kindness can shape compassion. Their resilience can teach courage. Their ability to love through difficult circumstances can provide a lifelo

Ukraine has presented its proposals to United States negotiators for a peace plan. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy conveyed these ideas during his nightly video address. The United States can bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, particularly air defense systems. This assistance aims to pressure Russia into ending the ongoing conflict. Ukraine seeks a resolution rather than a prolonged continuation of hostilities.

In 1856, an English chemist invented a unique material which set the foundation stone for huge global industry. Alexander Parkes developed Parkesine, a material made from nitrocellulose and other substances. It became the first man-made thermoplastic and later became a precursor to celluloid. Parkes displayed Parkesine in London in 1862, but production problems prevented his company from succeeding commercially.

A new regulation threatens alternative investment funds' established structures. These funds have relied on Indian ownership for sponsor and manager control. The draft rules suggest foreign investor funding could now determine control status. This change may impact investments in restricted sectors like real estate. Existing funds await clarity on grandfathering and future foreign investment rules.

Shiprocket secured Rs 727.41 crore from anchor investors before its upcoming initial public offering. The e-commerce enablement company aims to raise a total of Rs 1,617.48 crore through its maiden public issue. The IPO includes a fresh issue and an offer for sale, with a price band of Rs 92-97 per share. Proceeds will fund platform growth, technology, and debt repayment, and support acquisitions.

Indian equities declined as rising crude prices and a weaker rupee weighed on sentiment. Sensex fell 388 points and Nifty 112 points, while analysts flagged 24,400 as key support amid geopolitical risks and upcoming inflation data.

Behari Lal Engineering Ltd has secured Rs 90.48 crore from anchor investors. The integrated iron and steel manufacturer's IPO opens for subscription on August 12. The company plans to utilize fresh issue proceeds for facility upgrades and expansion. Funds will also support solar panel installation and debt repayment. The public issue comprises a fresh issue and an offer-for-sale.

India's market regulator is taking significant steps to enhance the supervision of its digital bullion market by proposing new vault manager regulations for all physical bullion. This initiative, which comes from the Securities and Exchange Board of India, aims to broaden the reach of the Electronic Gold Receipts framework. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their feedback on the consultation paper by September 1.

Skytech Infinite Platform is gearing up for its initial public offering set for August 14, aiming to raise Rs 22.68 crore. The funds will primarily focus on enhancing working capital and expanding operations into new markets. This industrial automation leader seeks to solidify its footprint in vital sectors, with shares anticipated to debut on NSE Emerge on August 21.

Manappuram Finance has showcased a remarkable financial performance in the first quarter, with consolidated profits leaping to Rs 585 crore compared to the previous year's figures. The total income during this quarter rose to Rs 3,040 crore, while assets under management experienced a notable increase of 57 percent, reaching Rs 69,635 crore. The board has additionally declared an interim dividend of 50 percent.

Bata India has reported a remarkable twenty-three percent increase in profits for the June quarter, thanks to effective operational efficiency and stringent cost management. In addition, a four percent growth in revenue from operations was fueled by premiumization and higher sales volume. The company has also announced an interim dividend of twenty-five rupees per share, marking its third consecutive quarter of impressive growth.

Tablespace Technologies has filed its DRHP with SEBI for an IPO comprising a fresh issue of up to 800 crore and an OFS. The managed workspace provider plans to repay borrowings, pursue acquisitions and fund corporate needs.

Rapid7, a notable player in cybersecurity, has announced a workforce reduction of around twelve percent as part of its strategic shift towards an AI-first approach. This decision aligns with their goal to boost investment in AI-driven security solutions and refine their core platform. Additionally, the company is forming a new leadership team intended to spearhead this innovative AI initiative, ultimately striving for improved operational efficiency and enhanced customer service.

India is examining Bangladesh's request for Sheikh Hasina's extradition. The government stated its position on the matter remains unchanged. Investigations are ongoing regarding the murder of activist Sharif Osman Hadi. High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi met with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in Dhaka. Both nations discussed strengthening bilateral relations and mutual interests.

The next time you walk into a room and suddenly forget why you went there, it may be easy to blame your memory. But psychology offers a more intriguing explanation: your brain may have just encountered an event boundary. As your surroundings change, your mental context shifts too. New information becomes more relevant, while the intention you were holding onto can temporarily become harder to retrieve.

Quote of the Day by Enid Blyton: Enid Blytons quote, If you cant look after something in your care, you have no right to keep it, explores the importance of responsibility, care, and accountability. The quote suggests that having something in our possession also means accepting the responsibility to protect, support, and care for it properly rather than neglecting its needs.

White vinegar for mold removal hack: Mold thrives in damp conditions, but there's an effective solution: white vinegar. Its acetic acid content is a powerful ally against household mold. To treat small patches, spray undiluted vinegar and scrub after thirty minutes. Remember, the key to preventing mold from returning is to fix the moisture problem.

Disney has secured global streaming rights for Formula E races. The multi-year agreement will feature races on Disney+ across 144 territories. US viewers can also watch races on ESPN and ESPN+ platforms. The 2026-27 season includes 21 rounds in major global cities. Formula E also plans to debut its advanced GEN4 electric racing car.

Quote of the day by Rumi: If you find the mirror of the heart dull, the rust has not been cleared from its face. Explore the deeper meaning behind this powerful Rumi quote about the heart, emotional clutter, self-reflection, inner peace, spiritual growth and the importance of clearing away the experiences that prevent us from seeing ourselves and life with greater clarity.

Kite flying is a beloved Indian tradition celebrating freedom and patriotism. Families gather on rooftops, enjoying the festive atmosphere and friendly competitions. Kites, once used for protest, now symbolize national pride and unity. Markets display colourful kites featuring tricolour patterns and patriotic messages. Safety precautions are advised for responsible kite flying during celebrations.

In a significant financial shift, the tax burden for ITR-7 filers has climbed to Rs 1,043 crore in the Assessment Year 2025-26, a figure that is about threefold compared to five years back. This information, shared with Parliament by the Minister of State for Finance, highlights the growing obligations faced by trusts, political organizations, and academic institutions submitting ITR-7.

The next decade will challenge leadership assumptions, decision-making and growth strategies. The leaders who adapt early could shape what comes next.

The Indian equity market saw investors experiencing a striking loss of 916.85 billion rupees in futures and options trading. Retail trader involvement in equity derivatives has significantly dwindled from the previous year. This downturn signifies the impact of regulatory reforms aimed at reducing reckless speculative behavior. With the Securities and Exchange Board of India and policymakers introducing multiple safeguards, there has been a noticeable impact on overall trading volumes.

PPFAS CIO Rajeev Thakkar says fears that AI will destroy IT jobs are exaggerated. Citing Benedict Evans and historical automation, he argues technology eliminates some roles while creating new work, with implementation, cybersecurity and other opportunities emerging.

Specialized Investment Funds (SIFs) introduced a new investment framework for experienced investors. As portfolios evolve beyond traditional asset classes, could SIFs become the missing link between mutual funds and alternative investments?

Fusion Finance plans to reduce microfinance loans to seventy percent by fiscal 2029. The company will introduce larger individual loans while focusing on small business lending. Assets under management aim to reach ten thousand crore rupees this fiscal year. This diversification follows regulatory changes allowing more non-microfinance loan options.

The Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) proposed restrictions on revolving credit facilities offered by non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) may increase operational challenges for lenders, reduce their returns and raise costs for borrowers, Kotak Institutional Equities said in a report.

A 1,400-year-old skeleton found in northern Italy revealed the remarkable story of a Medieval man who survived the loss of his right hand and may have used a knife as a makeshift prosthetic. Researchers found evidence suggesting the blade was attached to his arm with leather straps and a buckle.

KPI Green Energy experienced a fourteen percent dip in net profit for the June quarter, signaling the effects of geopolitical tensions and rising costs on financing and depreciation. Despite this, the company reported a notable sixteen percent increase in total revenue, amounting to Rs 710 crore. Additionally, Kapil Kriplani has been appointed as the new Chief Financial Officer, following Salim Yahoo's resignation from the role.

Zydus Lifesciences reported a significant year-on-year decline of thirty-six percent in net profit for the first quarter, despite a robust twenty-two percent increase in operational revenue, reaching eight thousand seventeen crore rupees. The company experienced profitability challenges with an EBITDA reduction of seven point six percent compared to the previous year. Following the announcement, their stock price saw an uptick. Zydus is a prominent player in the global pharmaceutical landscape.

Siemens Ltd reported a decline in net profit of over eighteen percent in the June quarter, largely due to fluctuating commodity prices and rising material costs. On a positive note, the company experienced a significant increase in operational revenue, underlining strong demand. Additionally, new orders surged, particularly within the Smart Infrastructure segment, driven by robust investments from both private and public sectors.

Axis Direct has identified three stocks with strong technical setups and bullish momentum for August. Ramkrishna Forgings, Endurance Technologies and 360 ONE WAM have shown decisive breakouts and positive trend structures, with the brokerage providing specific buying ranges, stop-loss levels and upside targets.

Around 110 ABVP workers were detained during their march to the Jharkhand Assembly. Protesters clashed with police personnel as they blocked the bus carrying detainees. Some women protesters were also detained, and two students fainted during the demonstration. The ABVP demanded answers regarding alleged police atrocities and exam irregularities. They called for a CBI probe into recruitment examination leaks and reforms.

President Droupadi Murmu has approved the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill. This legislation grants Vande Mataram statutory protection similar to the National Anthem. Deliberate insult or disruption during its singing will now be a punishable offense. Opposition MPs have raised concerns about the practical implications of extended singing times. The bill passed Parliament last month amid political differences and protests.

MF holdings declined across 83 BSE smallcaps in June 2026 after two quarters of accumulation. Among these, 15 stocks posted 20% or steeper CY26 declines, including Inox Wind, KEC International, Latent View Analytics and Afcons Infrastructure, highlighting divergent performance and reduced institutional exposure across several smallcap counters.

The Allahabad High Court has ordered the father of two adult sisters and the Uttar Pradesh government to jointly pay Rs 25 lakh compensation after finding that the women were illegally confined at home following their voluntary conversion to Islam. The court said adults have the constitutional right to make personal decisions about faith, residence and liberty.

If you want a garden that looks beautiful while requiring less maintenance, living mulch plants can be a clever solution.

The microfinance sector experienced a noticeable easing of asset quality stress in June, thanks to lenders aggressively addressing bad loans, which bolstered the portfolio's performance. The average loan amounts saw an uptick as lenders prioritized dependable borrowers. Meanwhile, the seasonally driven slowdown caused loan origination to level off, although NBFC-MFIs recorded a significant increase in their portfolio shares over the past year.

The Supreme Court clarified its order on FIRs for missing persons. This directive now applies to every individual, irrespective of age or gender. States wrongly assumed the order only covered children, which the court deemed mala fide. Non-compliance will lead to contempt notices against Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police. The court emphasised immediate FIR registration for all missing persons without preliminary inquiry.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces a difficult balancing act with the United States. He rejected President Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan, risking American anger and his own election. Netanyahu insists Hamas must disarm completely before any Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Trump seeks to advance peace efforts while facing domestic political pressures.

Banks must understand artificial intelligence deployment for future success. AI can enhance financial inclusion and improve existing public good projects. Careless AI use risks new forms of exclusion and instability for banks. The RBI plans an approved AI governance policy and a testing sandbox. Banks need deliberate strategies, sustained investment, and strong governance for AI.

A Kanpur woman has alleged that jewellery and valuables worth around Rs 50 lakh went missing from her SBI bank locker. Heres what RBI rules say about bank liability, negligence and compensation for locker-related losses.