National / The Times of India
India's defence exports have surged to a record Rs 23,622 crore in FY 2024-25, marking a 12.04% increase. This boost reflects a 34-fold rise since FY 2013-14. The success of 'Make in India' weapon system has been highlighted by Operation Sindoor.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's net worth neared $120 billion, fueled by soaring demand for AI chips, elevating him on Forbes' billionaires list. Nvidia's market value reached $3 trillion after a major deal with Saudi Arabia to supply AI processors, including a significant portion for a startup backed by the kingdom's sovereign wealth fund.
Pakistan has received a $1.023 billion installment from the IMF's Extended Fund Facility, to be added to its foreign exchange reserves. India had earlier abstained from the vote, voicing concerns about Pakistan's history of non-compliance with IMF conditions and the potential use of funds for cross-border terrorism.
India and the US are actively resolving trade obstacles, streamlining the import of American apples and addressing challenges in Indian shrimp exports. India is easing apple import rules.
Gold futures dipped to Rs 93,195/10 grams due to profit booking, despite initial gains from cooling U.S. inflation. Silver futures also declined, trading at Rs 96,063/kg. Experts suggest monitoring dollar index volatility and geopolitical tensions.
Baba Vanga's warning about smartphone addiction is now a reality, impacting both children and adults. Excessive screen time leads to sleep disruption, mental health issues, and weakened social bonds. Studies reveal increased anxiety, depression, and reduced attention spans. Experts suggest digital detox strategies, encouraging real-world connections, and practicing mindfulness to combat this growing crisis and reclaim our well-being.
With no tax deduction for life insurance under the new tax regime, it may be time to dump policies you bought only to save tax.
Gold price prediction: Gold prices have been fluctuating due to US-China trade deal optimism and geopolitical tensions. The US and China agreed to lower duties, impacting gold sentiments. Focus remains on US macro cues and Fed's stance on rate cuts.
Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in green on Wednesday. While Nifty50 was above 24,600, BSE Sensex crossed 81,300.
Stock market recommendations: Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers recommend buying Waaree Energies above 2700, targeting 3000, Premier Energies near 1000, targeting 1160, and GMMP Faudler near 1070, targeting 1230.
Following a US-China trade agreement where tariffs are suspended for 90 days, President Trump claimed Apple CEO Tim Cook plans to increase US investments, potentially building more plants. This news follows reports of Apple considering iPhone price hikes, possibly linked to tariffs.
Alarming studies reveal energy drinks, popular among young individuals in the UK (31%), pose significant health risks. Dietitian Annabel Gipp highlights caffeine's adverse effects, including high blood pressure and sleep disruption. A 2023 review links energy drinks to cardiovascular and kidney issues. Public Health journal study connects them to anxiety and depression.
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has directed airlines to resume normal flight schedules across all 32 airports from Thursday, May 15, following the lapse of a NOTAM restricting air routes. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo had faced cancellations due to drone activity, but are progressively resuming services.
ITC Hotels is expanding its luxury presence in Eastern India with a new Mementos by ITC Hotels property in Siliguri, West Bengal. Developed by the LR Berlia Group near Bagdogra Airport, the hotel will feature 180 rooms and upscale amenities. This marks the Mementos brand's debut in the region, catering to leisure, business travelers, and the growing wedding segment.
Bharti Airtel's consolidated net profit surged to Rs 11,022 crore in Q4 FY25, a five-fold increase driven by tariff hikes and a one-time tax gain. Total revenue rose 27% to Rs 47,876.2 crore, with India's revenue climbing 15%. ARPU increased to Rs 245, and the company expanded its network infrastructure with significant capital expenditure.
The US-China trade agreement, temporarily reducing tariffs, poses challenges for India's trade negotiations with the US. Securing a favorable bilateral trade agreement with the US and leveraging domestic strengths are crucial for India to remain competitive in the global supply chain.
GAIL (India) Ltd reported a dip in Q4 net profit due to lower gas marketing margins and petrochemical segment losses, despite a one-time gain in Q3. However, FY25 saw record EBITDA, PBT, and PAT, driven by increased revenue and gas transmission volumes. The board also approved transferring city gas licenses to GAIL Gas Ltd.
US stocks showed mixed performance amid inflation data and US-China trade talks. The Dow Jones fell, while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 rose slightly. Inflation cooled for the third month in April. UnitedHealth Group shares plunged after suspending its financial forecast. Boeing shares increased following reports of China lifting a ban on accepting deliveries.
Chinese defence stocks plummeted following a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, erasing earlier gains fueled by expectations of increased arms sales to Pakistan. The Hang Seng China A Aerospace & Defence Index saw a significant drop, with companies like AVIC Chengdu Aircraft and Zhuzhou Hongda experiencing substantial losses.
US inflation eased in April, driven by lower grocery and gasoline prices, despite existing tariffs. Economists anticipate potential price pressures in the coming months as the full impact of trade duties becomes apparent. The Fed faces challenges balancing inflation and unemployment amid volatile trade dynamics and persistent tariffs, complicating future monetary policy decisions.
Tata Motors reported a 51% drop in Q4 net profit to Rs 8,556 crore due to lower volumes, despite a slight revenue increase. Full-year profit also declined, though revenue marginally rose. JLR's revenue dipped slightly, but a new US-UK trade deal offers tariff relief. The company remains focused on growth and efficiency, with plans for significant investments.
SpiceJet is set to recommence its Haj 2025 operations from Srinagar on May 14, deploying wide-body Airbus A340 aircraft for two flights to Medina. This resumption follows the reopening of Srinagar airport after recent tensions. The airline plans to facilitate travel for approximately 15,500 pilgrims this year, operating 45 Haj flights from various Indian cities to Saudi Arabia.
Cipla Ltd reported a robust 30% YoY increase in consolidated net profit, reaching Rs 1,222 crore for Q4 FY25, driven by strong sales in India, the US, and Africa. For the full fiscal year, net profit rose 28% to Rs 5,272 crore, with revenue from operations climbing to Rs 27,548 crore.
The All India Consumer Price Index (CPI) or retail inflation for the month of April 2025 eased to 3.16% compared to April 2024. The food inflation experienced a significant reduction of 91 basis points in April 2025 compared to March 2025, marking its lowest point since October 2021.
Hero MotoCorp announced a rise in net profit and revenue for the fourth quarter. The Board recommended a final dividend. The company achieved its highest-ever revenue and profit for FY25. Growth in premium, scooter, and EV segments drove the strong performance. Vikram S Kasbekar mentioned strong retail traction. Hero MotoCorp launched new high-end models and reinforced its scooter segment.
Global markets experienced mixed trading on Tuesday as initial optimism over the US-China trade truce waned. While European and Japanese markets saw modest gains, Hong Kong's Hang Seng fell, reflecting lingering concerns. Investors are now awaiting key economic reports to gauge the long-term impact of trade uncertainties on the global economy, while oil prices retreated after Monday's rally.
India plans to impose tariffs on US goods. This action responds to US tariffs on steel and aluminium. The US tariffs impact Indian exports significantly. India's move could affect ongoing trade talks between the two nations. India had previously retaliated against similar US actions. The country reserves the right to modify its tariff plans based on future developments. The WTO has been notified of India's intentions.
CLSA's report suggests India's appeal as a defensive investment is waning due to easing US-China trade tensions and improved regional diplomacy. With reduced global risk, investment flows may shift from Indian to Chinese securities.
Nissan Motor Corp. faces a significant downturn, reporting a 670.9 billion yen loss for the last fiscal year. In response, the automaker is implementing drastic measures, including slashing its global workforce by 15% (around 20,000 employees) and reducing its number of auto plants from 17 to 10. Falling sales in China and U.S.
India is strategically planning to become a global shipbuilding hub by identifying coastal land in Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh for mega facilities. A potential Rs 10,000 crore shipyard in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, may be established through a joint venture between Cochin Shipyard Limited and South Korea's HD Hyundai. The initiative is supported by government policies and aims to significantly increase India's share in the global shipbuilding market.
Despite the India-Pakistan ceasefire, India's economic measures against Pakistan remain in effect. These actions, initiated after the Pahalgam attack, include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, impacting Pakistan's water resources and agriculture. A complete ban on direct and indirect trade further cripples Pakistan's economy by blocking $500 million in goods.
Paytm shares plunged 5% following reports that Ant Financial, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group, sold a 4.1% stake in the company through a block deal valued at approximately Rs 2,200 crore. This sale reduces Ant Group's holding to below 6%. The sell-off occurs amidst Paytm's efforts to achieve breakeven, despite reporting a net loss in Q4 FY25.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has declared the Class 10th Results for 2025, with a national pass percentage of 93.66%. The Prayagraj region saw a decline, with a pass percentage of 91.01%, dropping to 15th place. Students can check their results on official CBSE websites or access digital marksheets through DigiLocker, UMANG app, and SMS-based services.
Amidst tensions between India and Pakistan, airlines like Air India and IndiGo cancelled flights to several northern destinations on May 13th after briefly resuming services. The shutdown of 32 airports had earlier severely affected flight services, resulting in more than 300 daily flight cancellations.
Following trade talks between Beijing and Washington, China has lifted a month-long ban on Boeing aircraft deliveries. This decision comes after a tentative agreement where the US reduced tariffs on Chinese imports, and China lowered duties on US goods. The move provides a boost to Boeing, which has faced challenges due to safety concerns and trade disputes, and unlocks payments for approximately 50 planes destined for Chinese carriers.