India's life insurance sector saw a robust 15.7% growth in new business premiums for FY26, reaching Rs 4.6 lakh crore. While overall policy sales rose modestly, private players like SBI Life gained market share. The individual segment showed strong gains, with group insurance proving crucial for stabilizing some insurers' portfolios.
Withdraws directives as volatility eases, some controls stay
Stock market today: Sensex and Nifty opened in red on Monday on weak global cues as the closure of Strait of Hormuz led to an increase in oil prices. While Nifty50 went below 24,300, BSE Sensex dropped over 200 points.
Stock market recommendations: Bharat Electronics, and MTAR Technologies are the top stock recommendations by Motilal Oswal Wealth Management Research Desk for this trading week starting April 20, 2026. The brokerage shares the target prices and rationale.
Aspiring pilots face a steeper climb as jet fuel prices surge and the rupee weakens, pushing Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) costs in India to Rs 60-70 lakh. Training abroad now incurs 15-16% higher expenses. This financial strain, coupled with long waits for flying hours and jobs, makes the dream of flying increasingly challenging for many.
Today is Akshaya Tritiya, an auspicious day in the Hindu calendars, believed to bring lasting prosperity and good fortune. Buying gold on this day is considered auspicious. Experts believe that returns on gold over the last few years reinforce its role as a long-term wealth preserver.
State Refiners Largest Buyers Of Russian Fuel
Nadir Godrej will step down as Godrej Industries Group chair on August 13. His nephew, Pirojsha Godrej, will assume the role of GIG chair. Pirojsha will also chair Godrej Industries, the group's holding company. Nadir's son, Burjis Godrej, will become chair of Godrej Agrovet. This marks a significant generational leadership change within the prominent Indian conglomerate.
Delhi-Dehradun Expressway inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to inaugurate the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, which is also being called the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway Economic Corridor. The new expressway built under National Highways Authority of India is an access-controlled roadway corridor that will substantially reduce the travel time between Delhi and Dehradun. The full expressway will be thrown open on April 14, 2026. From a unique wildlife corridor to route map, here are top facts and photos of the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway:
Global venture funding surged to a record $300 billion in Q1, largely propelled by AI deals, with four companies securing a significant portion. While early-stage funding shows growth, India's market lags in late-stage recovery, with capital remaining constrained and selective, particularly for AI ventures.
Consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending, prioritizing essentials and value purchases due to war-driven uncertainty and layoffs. This shift is leading to slower sales for non-essential items, with companies focusing on value packs and smaller formats to maintain accessibility amidst rising costs and a cautious job market.
President Trump has issued a stern warning to China, threatening a "staggering" 50% tariff if Beijing aids Iran militarily. He expressed confidence Iran would yield to US demands, asserting that tough rhetoric brought them to the negotiating table. Trump also detailed plans to blockade the Strait of Hormuz and warned of severe retaliation against any Iranian aggression.
India's electronics industry is seeking continued government support with a proposed PLI 2.0 scheme to boost mobile production and exports. Aiming to capture 30-35% of global mobile output by FY31, the industry projects annual manufacturing to reach $110-130 billion. This expansion hinges on sustained incentives to maintain competitiveness against China.
Global crude oil markets are in a frenzy as a severe shortage drives intense competition for prompt deliveries. Physical oil prices have surged to unprecedented levels, with buyers vastly outnumbering sellers. This scramble, fueled by reduced Middle Eastern flows, is forcing refiners to consider scaling back operations, potentially worsening fuel shortages.
The government has significantly increased export duties on diesel and aviation turbine fuel to prioritize domestic availability amidst West Asian tensions. Diesel export duty rose by over 150% to Rs 55.5 per litre, and ATF to Rs 42 per litre, aiming to deter exports and ensure sufficient supply within India.
The Reserve Bank of India is proposing a simpler asset-size threshold of Rs 1 lakh crore to identify large NBFCs for stricter regulation, replacing a complex scoring system. This change could place Tata Sons, with assets of Rs 1.75 lakh crore, under tighter scrutiny, contingent on its application to surrender its core investment company registration being approved.
The United States is set to host an Indian delegation this month, signaling renewed momentum in bilateral trade talks. This follows a productive meeting between US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, who is in the US to review trade, defense, and technology ties.
Gold prices in India displayed a mixed trend on Thursday. While futures trading saw a marginal increase on the MCX, supported by global cues, retail rates declined in several cities. However, select markets experienced a rise in gold prices due to local factors.
Top stock market recommendations: Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC, Bank of India, and Cummins India have been picked as top stocks to buy today by Aakash K Hindocha, Deputy Vice President - WM Research of Nuvama Professional Clients Group.
Oil prices edged higher Thursday after a significant daily drop, as Middle East tensions and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz kept markets on edge. Despite conflicting reports on tanker movement, US Vice President Vance indicated the strait was beginning to reopen. Prices remain elevated due to persistent concerns over potential renewed hostilities.
India faces significant external shocks from the Middle East crisis, impacting energy markets, trade, and supply chains. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are increasing costs for exporters and importers, with sectors like agriculture and labour-intensive industries particularly vulnerable. Higher energy prices and potential slowdowns in Gulf economies could lead to sustained inflation and slower growth for India.
Issuer sentiment is improving as 38 companies, including SBI Funds Management and Manipal Health Enterprises, filed preliminary IPO papers with Sebi in March. This surge, a significant jump from previous years, indicates a stronger pipeline of public issues, with more high-profile companies expected to follow suit.
Escalating Middle East tensions are driving up fuel costs in the US, impacting daily life and business operations. Petrol prices have surged over a dollar, with diesel seeing an even steeper increase, prompting companies like Amazon and airlines to implement surcharges. Experts warn of broader economic repercussions and consumer price hikes as supply chain pressures mount.
Global energy prices are soaring due to Middle East conflict, with Hong Kong experiencing the world's highest petrol costs. Despite this, authorities assure supply stability, largely from mainland China. The high prices, driven by duties and land costs, impact logistics and inflation, prompting some drivers to refuel across the border.
Global energy prices are soaring due to the Middle East conflict and Strait of Hormuz issues. This is significantly impacting India's economy. Road construction costs are rising, and airlines face higher fuel expenses. Hotels and restaurants are also feeling the pinch with increased LPG prices. Businesses are adjusting to these escalating costs, with some considering price hikes.
Nudges Cos, Institutional Kitchens To Move To Electric Cooking
Pakistan is set to repay a $2 billion loan to the UAE by month's end, a request reportedly linked to the Middle East's recent geopolitical shifts. The funds, held by the State Bank of Pakistan, were initially for balance of payment support. While Pakistan can meet this repayment, it may require further external financing for upcoming fiscal needs.
India's life insurance sector saw a robust 15.7% growth in new business premiums for FY26, reaching Rs 4.6 lakh crore. While overall pol...
