Tata Steel is acquiring Martrade's stake in their joint shipping venture for Rs 335 crore. This move ends a twenty-five-year partnership with the German logistics group. The company also committed Rs 33,873 crore for capacity expansion at Neelachal Ispat Nigam. This expansion will bolster its long products portfolio and branded retail offerings. Tata Steel reported a 19% net profit rise and 15% revenue increase in Q1 FY27.from Business News Today: Stock Markets, Financial News, India Business & World Business News https://ift.tt/hzpPvOm
Amazon and Flipkart are reducing seller fees to attract more businesses. This strategy aims to boost sales volumes in smaller Indian cities and towns. Lower costs for sellers translate into more affordable products for consumers. The e-commerce giants are focusing on onboarding local sellers from tier two cities. This move is crucial for their continued growth and market expansion.
Salil Parekh led Infosys to double revenue and secure significant large deals. He focused on disciplined execution and a stable company culture. Infosys sees AI services as a substantial long-term growth opportunity. The company's strong client relationships provide a natural advantage. Internal leaders were chosen for the next CEO role due to their extensive experience.
Formal retail credit penetration in India more than doubled over the past decade. Consumption-led lending, including personal loans, drove this significant growth. Credit access expanded to younger borrowers and women across India. Northern and central states saw increased credit activity, while western and southern regions moderated. This shift reflects credit being used for lifestyle rather than asset acquisition.
Companies are enhancing employee health benefits beyond standard medical insurance. AstraZeneca Pharma India leads by introducing a group cancer care policy. This new coverage supplements existing plans and addresses high treatment costs. Many employers are also investing more in outpatient and wellness programs. This trend reflects a growing focus on comprehensive employee well-being.
India's economy shows resilience despite global challenges and uncertainties. Swift policy responses and implementation are crucial for attracting investment. Rising crude oil prices pose a potential pressure on fiscal and current accounts. The external sector remains resilient due to strong exports and remittances. Adverse weather conditions present a risk to farm output and rural demand.
The US Federal Reserve, which began its two-day policy meeting on Tuesday, was widely expected to leave its benchmark interest rate unchanged.
Hindustan Unilever anticipates further price increases in coming months due to volatile commodity costs. The company projects inflation to remain between two and five percent for the September quarter. Demand for household staples remained stable, driving growth to a thirteen-quarter high. HUL's revenue from operations increased by ten percent in the first quarter. The company will continue to pursue volume-led revenue growth across its diverse product portfolio.
Industrial production surged 7.3% in June, a 22-month high, driven by manufacturing and electricity growth. This strong performance occurred despite global uncertainties and an erratic monsoon season. The first quarter saw industrial output grow 5.8% compared to the previous year. Several manufacturing sectors, including electrical equipment and motor vehicles, showed robust expansion. However, risks from high input prices and slowing global growth may moderate future output.
New amendments to the MSME Development Act will ensure faster payments for small businesses. Mandatory digital invoicing and stronger protections against delayed payments are proposed. The government aims to improve liquidity for these vital enterprises. Dispute resolution will be accelerated through new facilitation councils. A free national digital registration platform will also be introduced.
HDFC Bank's board penalized top executives over deposit arrangements with MSRDC. The internal review found business overreach but no personal gain or mala fide intent. Top executives received nominal penalties and warning letters following the review's recommendations. This action comes as the RBI pushes boards for greater oversight and before the CEO's term ends. The bank will formally communicate the matter and its findings to the Reserve Bank of India.
Tata Sons' upcoming annual general meeting faces a quorum challenge. This issue could affect the reappointment of chairman N Chandrasekaran. A charity commissioner's order prevents a key trust from nominating a representative. Without this nominee, the meeting's quorum requirement cannot be met. This situation may delay crucial business and Chandrasekaran's directorship.
Foreign portfolio investors became net buyers of Indian equities in July. This marked a reversal after four months of significant outflows from the market. Total foreign inflows reached their strongest point this year, surpassing February's figures. Equity segment saw intense selling pressure earlier, with substantial outflows recorded. Debt markets remained resilient, attracting significant inflows throughout the year.
India's IPO market is preparing for a busy month with many companies planning public offerings. Over a dozen firms are expected to launch initial public offerings, raising over Rs 25,000 crore. These upcoming issues span diverse sectors like quick commerce, housing finance, and education infrastructure. This activity follows sustained momentum in the primary market throughout the current year. Market participants anticipate robust fundraising as companies leverage improving investor sentiment.
Markets anticipate another volatile week as investors track Middle East developments and oil prices. The US Federal Reserve's policy meeting outcome will also significantly influence investor sentiment. Domestic economic signals will emerge from the release of June Industrial Production data. A busy earnings season featuring heavyweight companies is expected to drive stock-specific movements. Investors will closely scrutinize the Federal Reserve's assessment of inflation and growth.
Two groups of small businesses are challenging Donald Trump's latest tariffs in court. These new levies target goods from sixty trading partners and cover nearly all US imports. Businesses argue the administration failed to justify these measures against individual economies. They contend the tariffs replace previous worldwide duties struck down by the Supreme Court. Legal experts believe these new tariffs will likely remain in place for an extended period.
A federal appeals court refused to lift a ruling blocking a $100,000 H-1B visa fee. The court left in place a decision finding the fee unlawful while the government challenges it. Democratic attorneys general argued the administration created a new tax without congressional approval. A district judge agreed, ruling the fee exceeded executive branch authority. The appellate panel said the government had not shown it was likely to prevail.
'Not credible', P 19
Set To Take On Zomato, Swiggy | Pilot Likely In B'luru | Separate App, ONDC Launch Planned
Houthi Rebels' Attacks Add To Shipping Woes
2-year window, P 15
Section 301 Levies May Cover 99% Of US Trade | New Tariffs On Canada & Brazil
India's strong economic growth continues, but structural reforms are needed for developed nation status. High trade costs and regulatory complexity present significant challenges to global integration. The World Trade Organization report notes progress in trade facilitation and financial inclusion. India is actively pursuing free trade agreements to boost its export strategy. Achieving a larger share of global exports requires balancing self-reliance with greater openness.
The government has informed Parliament about no current plans to abolish long-term capital gains tax on equities. Tax policies are revised periodically as part of the annual budgetary process and legislative revisions. This statement addresses investor demands for changes in long-term capital gains tax rates. The minister clarified that tax rates for domestic and overseas investors in equities are the same.
RBI deputy governor Swaminathan J expressed concern over banks bypassing internal ombudsman. He stated that many customer grievances resolved by the RBI ombudsman were never referred internally. This situation undermines the purpose of the internal ombudsman framework, he noted. Banks must refer all eligible complaints promptly and without exception to their internal ombudsmen. Effective internal ombudsman performance should naturally reduce external escalations and provide customer resolutions.
IndiGo has placed a record order for over one thousand engines. This significant deal is for their 510 Airbus A320neo family aircraft. CFM International will supply the LEAP-1A engines and establish an MRO facility. Honeywell Aerospace will also provide avionics and power systems for these planes. IndiGo plans to double its fleet by the year 2030.
Sources undisclosed, mop-up so far 2X speculated amount
Reliance Industries saw a 25% profit decline, yet revenue grew significantly. Strong performances from oil-to-chemicals and Jio digital services boosted overall results. Jio's earnings climbed, supported by subscriber growth and increased average revenue per user. Retail and oil and gas divisions showed stable or slightly varied ebitda figures. The company maintains a healthy cash balance to cover its net debt obligations.
Works on a model of larger, milestone-linked funding
The India-UK trade deal commenced, reflecting significant trust and cooperation between nations. This agreement is expected to boost both economies and enhance bilateral trade relations. Discussions also addressed national security and the extradition of financial fugitives. The pact aims to strengthen ties in defense, technology, and climate initiatives. Both countries anticipate increased GDP and financial trade following this landmark agreement.
SpaceX shares have fallen below their initial public offering price for the first time. This decline reflects a broader shift in market sentiment and investor enthusiasm. Analysts point to concerns over interest rates and AI stock momentum. Investors are now awaiting SpaceX's first quarterly earnings report as a listed company. Upcoming events include the expiry of the IPO lock-up period and Starship test flights.
US stock markets saw gains on Wednesday, driven by strong corporate earnings reports. Investors also reacted positively to recent inflation data, which showed a notable slowdown. This easing inflation reduced expectations for an imminent interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve. However, ongoing Middle East tensions kept global energy supply concerns elevated. Asian and European markets also posted gains, with technology shares leading the advance.
The India-UK free trade agreement begins implementation, boosting Indian exports to the UK. Indian service providers and professionals will gain greater access to the United Kingdom market. Many Indian products will enter the UK duty-free, enhancing export competitiveness significantly. Digital service delivery is fully opened, benefiting global capability centers in India. A double contribution convention will save Indian workers and employers substantial annual amounts.
India is inserting a new clause into its foreign trade policy. This clause will allow blocking imports produced using forced labour. The government will use the International Labour Organisation's definition of forced labour. This move strengthens India's legal framework for trade negotiations. The notification becomes effective after thirty days from its issuance.
US senators unveiled a revised Russia sanctions bill targeting major energy buyers. This legislation seeks to pressure Moscow and its key oil and gas importers. The updated bill reduces previously proposed tariffs on top purchasers like China and India. It also targets Russia's shadow fleet and financial institutions involved in its war. This measure aims to secure broader political support and honor Senator Lindsey Graham's legacy.
India Post achieved its highest-ever first-quarter revenue of Rs 4,008 crore. This revenue marks a significant 22.2 percent increase from the previous year. The parcel and mail segments showed substantial revenue growth during this period. Citizen-centric services also experienced an impressive 86 percent jump in revenue. Several postal circles demonstrated strong performance across various business verticals.
India and the United States are making good progress on their bilateral trade deal. A framework agreement for the trade pact is now ready for signing. Both nations have reaffirmed their commitment to a balanced and commercially meaningful agreement. Discussions are ongoing to finalize the deal, which will benefit businesses and consumers. The timing of the signing depends on the US announcing its new tariff structure.
Domestic pharmaceutical retail growth shows strong signs of demand-led expansion. Volume growth in June exceeded three percent, a significant positive shift. Industry growth outlook is now revised upwards to over eleven percent this year. Higher sales of lipid-lowering and cardiac therapies led the market's recent surge. Chronic therapies continue to outpace the market, driven by lifestyle diseases.
Foreign investors have returned to Indian markets, showing renewed interest in equities during July. This shift follows months of consistent selling, with significant inflows recorded in early July. Equities have become the primary destination for foreign capital, attracting substantial investments. Debt markets also continue to see inflows, extending momentum from previous months. Stronger economic fundamentals and a stable currency are contributing to this positive investment trend.
State-run oil companies are considering expanding lightweight 10-kg LPG cylinders for commercial use. These cylinders will likely be sold at commercial LPG rates if approved by authorities. This move could benefit migrant workers, tenants, and street vendors needing LPG. The advanced composite cylinders are nearly fifty percent lighter than steel ones. They offer easier handling and portability for consumers and businesses.
India's new trade pact with the UK opens market access for exporters. However, strengthening quality standards and logistics is crucial for success. Food and engineering sectors face specific regulatory and certification requirements. Labour-intensive industries like garments and textiles offer significant export potential. Processed foods and automotive components also present substantial untapped opportunities.