The Times of India

Gold prices experienced a slight dip in domestic markets on Friday as profit-taking emerged after international bullion retreated from record highs. A firmer US dollar contributed to the decline in overseas trade. While most major Indian cities saw a marginal increase in gold prices, Chennai recorded a decrease.

Indian households are shifting from traditional savings like gold and cash to market-linked investments such as mutual funds and equities. This trend, accelerated by digital access and financial literacy, sees a significant rise in individual investors, particularly younger demographics and women, seeking inflation-beating returns.

Bengaluru's Yellow Line Metro has enhanced its services by introducing a seventh train, reducing peak hour waiting times to 10 minutes. This upgrade aims to ease congestion for commuters. Additionally, BMRCL has launched mobile-based QR code unlimited travel passes for one, three, and five days, promoting digital ticketing and passenger convenience.

Deloitte India has advised the government to strengthen trade resilience in the upcoming FY27 Budget. Key recommendations include expanding export credit and concessional financing for MSMEs. The firm also suggests allocating funds for critical mineral exploration and overseas access.

Nvidia's CEO Jensen Huang aims for engineers to code zero percent, leveraging AI assistants like Cursor to tackle complex, undiscovered problems. He believes this 'Purpose vs Task' approach, akin to radiology's evolution, will elevate human roles. While some, like Cursor's CEO, caution against unchecked AI development, Huang remains confident in this human-centric future for innovation.

In a light-hearted twist following the BJP's victory in the Maharashtra civic elections, MP PC Mohan cheekily took a dig at Raj Thackeray by referencing 'rajmalai'. This comes on the heels of Thackerays playful jab at K Annamalai, calling him 'rasmalai' during a spirited debate on Mumbai's essence.

Scott Adams showed that the most useful insights often come from people who aren't trying to sell you anything. His 87 words remain the best investment advice.

China has strongly opposed a new trade agreement between Washington and Taipei, which aims to cut tariffs on Taiwanese products and boost US investment. Beijing views the deal as a violation of the one-China principle, while the US hails it as a historic pact to reshore its semiconductor sector and foster economic partnership.

Under current SEBI takeover regulations, the term immediate relatives is limited to spouses, parents, siblings, and children. Notably, sons-in-law and daughters-in-law are excluded from this definition

US visa interview wait times for Indian applicants show significant variation across cities and visa types. While Hyderabad and Kolkata offer faster appointments for visitor visas, Mumbai and New Delhi face longer delays. Student visa processing is generally quicker, with New Delhi providing the earliest slots. Employment visa availability also differs, with Mumbai showing the shortest wait.

Indian stock markets opened strong on Friday. Nifty50 and Sensex saw significant gains before paring some of their advances. Investors are adopting a cautious approach. Hopes for India-EU and India-US trade deals are boosting sentiment. Several major companies are set to announce their Q3 earnings today.

Indo-Russian dies to deepen? Russia is ramping up efforts to deepen non-energy economic ties with India, with firms exploring localisation across sectors such as engineering, shipbuilding, IT, renewables and metallurgy.

India is a major driver of global economic growth. Strong domestic consumption is fueling robust performance. The International Monetary Fund projects significant growth for India. Recent indicators show performance exceeding expectations. An updated forecast is expected soon. India's economic momentum continues to impress.

India has strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN for misusing the platform and promoting a divisive agenda. Islamabad's envoy raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir in the General Assembly, prompting India to accuse Pakistan of spreading baseless allegations and falsehoods detached from reality.

As Budget 2026 approaches, targeted reforms can significantly reinforce Indias commitment for a stable and business-friendly tax regime.

Bill Gates is initiating the phased closure of his influential foundation by 2045, with a record $9 billion budget planned for 2026. The organization will cut up to 500 staff positions over five years to manage operating costs.

Infosys shares surged over 5% after the IT giant boosted its FY26 revenue growth forecast to 3-3.5%. Despite a slight dip in Q3 net profit, revenue saw a 9% year-on-year rise. Brokerages remain largely positive, citing strong deal wins and signs of recovery in key sectors, though near-term performance views vary.

Gold price prediction today: Jateen Trivedi of LKP Securities says that after rising strongly, gold may see some profit booking in the near term. He advocates a sell on rise strategy.

Asian markets saw a mixed close as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's strong earnings boosted AI-linked stocks, despite broader caution. A US trade deal with Taiwan, promising significant chip investments, also supported sentiment. While US tech stocks saw initial gains, they later retreated on tariff warnings. Oil prices remained stable amid easing geopolitical tensions.

The Indian rupee declined for a third consecutive session, falling 10 paise to 90.44 against the US dollar due to persistent foreign fund outflows and a stronger greenback. While declining crude oil prices and positive equity markets offered some support, a widening trade deficit and lower expectations of a Fed rate cut added pressure.

Get ready for a price hike on electronics! Smartphones, TVs, and laptops are set to become costlier by 4-8% in the coming weeks, following significant jumps in November and December. Soaring memory chip prices, driven by AI demand, are the main culprit. Experts warn these increases could become a regular occurrence, impacting immediate consumer demand.

Stock market today: Indian stock market benchmark indices, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, opened in green on Friday. While Nifty50 was above 25,700, BSE Sensex was up over 200 points.

As India positions itself as a preferred investment destination, the credibility of its tax dispute resolution system will be closely watched by both domestic and global investors.

European leaders will attend India's Republic Day parade and the 16th India-EU summit, aiming to finalize a free trade agreement and a defense partnership. Discussions will focus on trade, security, and clean energy, building on a new strategic agenda to strengthen bilateral ties amidst global uncertainties.

Global public health, veterinary and legal experts caution mass sheltering Indias free-living dogs would undermine rabies control, disrupt urban ecosystems, breach the law and raise costs without making cities safer.

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