Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
A restaurant owner claims delivery platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats can take 15% to 30% off every order, squeezing already-thin profits. In one case, the fees allegedly hit $188K, leaving the owner no choice but to stop using the apps and absorb the losses elsewhere.
OpenAI’s latest models, including the Codex coding agent, are now accessible through Amazon Bedrock on AWS. The change comes after an update to OpenAI’s contract with Microsoft, opening a direct path for enterprises to build AI agents using OpenAI’s frontier models in the AWS ecosystem. The partnership is aimed at scaling computing capacity and expanding OpenAI’s enterprise reach.
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United and American Airlines executives are telling investors they expect fares to remain elevated, even if fuel prices ease. Their pitch: passenger demand is still resilient enough to absorb recent price increases. With airlines planning around strong booking trends rather than cost swings alone, higher airfares may persist longer than many travelers expect.
The US Supreme Court looks poised to decide whether “geofence” search warrants can be used for broad dragnet identification of suspects by scanning tech companies’ location and device data. During arguments, justices appeared divided over what counts as a Fourth Amendment search and how limits apply when police sift through large tech databases to pinpoint potential criminals.
China’s major state oil companies are reportedly applying for export permits to resume shipping jet fuel, diesel and gasoline starting May. The move is aimed mainly at Asian countries facing critical jet fuel shortages, suggesting Beijing could reshape near-term regional supply and pricing dynamics if approvals come through.
President Donald Trump met King Charles III at the White House, praising the long-standing US UK bond and calling it a “special relationship.” The remarks came while tensions surrounding an Iran war continue to simmer, with Trump expressing hope that the alliance will remain strong. The meeting underscored how diplomacy and historic ties are being leveraged during geopolitical pressure.
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Eternal, the parent of Zomato and Blinkit, reported a blockbuster March quarter with revenue up threefold and net profit rising 4.5 times. Improved quick commerce margins helped drive the turnaround, while net order value crossed $10 billion across businesses. The company expects that figure to double in two years, with Blinkit’s growth projected to exceed 60% over the next three years.
Pakistan says it has carried out retaliatory fire targeting Afghan Taliban posts, citing alleged aggression by the Taliban and TTP. The move comes after Pakistan reported civilian casualties from shelling it attributes to Afghan forces. Tensions are rising over claims that TTP operates from Afghan territory, while border closures have already suspended trade.
The Narcotics Control Bureau Imphal Zonal Unit, with Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, seized heroin worth ₹8.5 crore in Churachandpur district. Two people were arrested during the operation. Investigators said the drugs originated from Myanmar, targeting trafficking routes along the Indo-Myanmar border. Authorities say further action will continue to make Manipur drug free.
Suvendu Adhikari has alleged that a Trinamool Congress councillor arranged hundreds of “artificial fingers” to enable false voting in Bhabanipur, along with claims of undelivered booth slips. The Trinamool Congress dismissed the accusation as baseless. With second-phase polling set for tomorrow, officials and voters will face fresh scrutiny at the ballot.
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Gulf leaders gathered in Saudi Arabia to coordinate responses to missile and drone attacks attributed to Iran, with tensions rising after Tehran targeted U S military installations in the Gulf. The meeting comes as Iran disrupts navigation around the Strait of Hormuz, keeping global shipping and regional security on edge and prompting urgent discussion across GCC capitals.
As summer travel approaches, fuel shortages are emerging as a real risk. U.S. and Iran tensions have disrupted access to the Strait of Hormuz, constraining oil and gas shipments. The disruption is already triggering rationing in parts of Asia and Africa, raising fears of higher costs and tighter supply for airlines and road travel.
Manipur Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh reviewed border security and the ongoing fencing works along the India Myanmar border. The meeting emphasized strengthening security, improving coordination among agencies, and accelerating development efforts in border districts. The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace, security, and progress through united action with ongoing on-ground measures.
Meta’s planned $2 billion acquisition of the AI startup Manus was reportedly halted after Beijing ordered the deal’s cancellation. The Chinese government raised concerns that Manus’s advanced AI technology could potentially leak to a geopolitical rival. The move highlights how cross-border AI deals can face national security reviews even when the price tag is massive.
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AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey believes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s football moment in Gangtok, Sikkim—where he played alongside local youngsters—can inspire children across India to take up the sport. Chaubey framed the visit as a powerful signal that big national leaders are backing football, potentially motivating more youth to join and train seriously.
Nearly 142 guest teachers in Delhi may be terminated after being accused of refusing mandatory census duty. The district administration has termed their alleged stance serious misconduct, warning that it harms public interest. Officials say the matter is being treated with strict action, triggering a heated debate over civic duty, accountability, and how census responsibilities are enforced.
The Aam Aadmi Party has gained a foothold in Gujarat’s local election results, winning its first district panchayat in Narmada and securing victories across twelve taluka panchayats. The tally signals a sharp jump in AAP’s local body presence, reflecting its push for grassroots organisation. The party now looks set to emerge as a stronger opposition force in multiple areas.
American lawmakers are drafting bipartisan AI legislation focused on both safety and innovation. One proposal would require parental controls for AI chatbots, aiming to protect children from harmful or misleading interactions. Another bill supports AI research while funding cybersecurity training for workers, responding to fears that fraud and security risks will grow as adoption accelerates.
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Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited (KSDL) posted Rs 507 crore profit and Rs 2016 crore revenue for FY26, citing expansion, product diversification, and tighter operations. The company said its Mysore Sandal brand crossed the Rs 2000 crore mark, reflecting rapid scaling and improved profitability as growth gathered momentum.
Steve Jobs looked back at Apple’s rough stretch under ex-CEO Gil Amelio, who once called the company a sinking ship. Jobs sharply criticized Amelio’s leadership, but the experience pushed him toward one hard takeaway: leadership must ruthlessly focus priorities. After Jobs returned, he streamlined products and tightened direction, helping set Apple on a new path.
China has blocked Meta’s planned acquisition of the AI startup Manus, underscoring heightened scrutiny of tech-linked deals tied to China. The decision raises risk for global investors and discourages Chinese firms from transferring stakes or assets to foreign buyers without approval. For entrepreneurs and investors, it signals tougher cross-border barriers amid intensifying US China tech competition.
West Bengal heads into Phase 2 of its assembly elections on April 29 with stakes for the Trinamool Congress continuing its 15-year rule. Voters are influenced by anti-incumbency, corruption allegations, identity politics, and concerns over women’s safety. Phase 1 turnout was high and results are set for May 4.
Infosys management stayed non-committal on when employees will see salary revisions, pointing to macroeconomic uncertainty and client spending. Staff, already facing a four-month delay in communication, reacted with disappointment as the company also projected cautious revenue growth for 2026-27, keeping timelines unclear.
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon said he is not worried about inflation, suggesting current trends won’t derail the economy. However, he flagged a darker scenario: stagflation. That mix of weak growth and stubbornly high prices remains one of the worst risks, according to Dimon’s assessment.
In a warm ceremony on the White House South Lawn, Donald Trump welcomed King Charles and Queen Camilla as their Washington visit began. The king shook hands with members of Trump’s Cabinet before joining Trump for the national anthem, setting a cordial tone for the day’s diplomacy.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers posted a strong Q4FY26, with net profit rising 24% year-on-year to Rs 303 crore and revenue up 29%. The boost came from higher EBITDA, improved margins, and record operational output. The board also recommended a final dividend for shareholders, adding extra value after the quarter’s surge.
New empirical findings suggest outdoor cats in the U.S. have a median lifespan of 7.25 years, far shorter than indoor cats. Researchers point to compounding dangers such as traffic accidents, diseases, predators, and environmental hazards. While many owners value outdoor enrichment, veterinary groups urge safer balance: enrich indoors and consider supervised outdoor time.
California is testing wildlife bridges to help animals cross roads safely and keep habitats connected. Evidence from similar projects suggests strategically placed underpasses and crossings can sharply cut roadkill, including amphibians with reductions of over 80%. The initiative aims to restore movement and migration pathways while protecting breeding cycles across impacted regions.
Every spring in Manitoba, more than 30,000 red sided garter snakes emerge from the Narcisse Snake Dens to reproduce. The gathering is not migration or hunting but mating: males cluster around females in a swirling “mating ball” guided by chemical signals. Afterward, the snakes disperse for the off season, returning reliably year after year.
HSBC has upgraded US equities to overweight from neutral, pointing to strong earnings momentum and easing geopolitical risks. At the same time, it cut Europe ex-UK to neutral, citing weaker activity and rising energy price risks. The broker also prefers sectors with lower commodity input costs, highlighting banks, insurance, and technology.
Australia has unveiled a direct ultimatum for Big Tech: pay for news or accept a 2.25% tax tied to publishing agreements. The policy aims to ensure journalists and media companies get compensation when platforms benefit from news content. Industry reactions are expected to hinge on how payments are calculated and enforced.
Credilio Financial Technologies, a fintech startup, has raised Rs 78 crore led by Cornerstone Ventures, along with Rs 23 crore in venture debt. The company plans to grow its customer base from one lakh to 50 lakh in three years by targeting underserved users in tier II and smaller towns through fixed-deposit-backed credit cards.
Britain plans to cooperate with “middle powers” including France, Germany, and Canada to strengthen AI security. The effort, led by the British AI Security Institute, will focus on sharing best practices for evaluating AI models and shaping how AI systems are assessed. Officials say the partnership won’t change or weaken ties with the United States.
The Nasdaq crashed by more than 300 points after a strong rally the day before, dragging the S&P 500 lower while the Dow held steady. Rising oil above $100 reignited inflation worries, and bond yields climbed near 4.37% ahead of a Federal Reserve meeting. Tech weakness deepened as AI momentum slowed and some major earnings disappointed.
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock called for renewed commitment to the UN Charter as tensions rise, taking aim at Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace.” She argued the UN’s strength lies in its inclusive structure where every nation has a voice, and said reform is needed to tackle today’s complex global challenges effectively.
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced a major housing and connectivity push for Jammu and Kashmir. He said nearly five lakh families living in kuchha houses will be provided pucca homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The plan also includes improved road connectivity and expanded initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment, with projects worth thousands of crores.
Rare Earths Americas has kicked off its U.S. IPO roadshow, seeking a valuation of up to $368.4 million. The company is riding a wave of investor enthusiasm for critical minerals that power modern electronics and clean-energy products, including electric vehicles and consumer devices like iPhones.
Nvidia, AMD, and Intel led a sharp fall in chip stocks as AI spending worries hit sentiment ahead of major mega-cap earnings. The Magnificent Seven opened broadly lower, with just Apple gaining. Higher oil and elevated bond yields added pressure on valuations, while concerns over OpenAI revenue growth further cooled AI optimism.
With the Iran crisis dragging on and no peace deal in sight, India’s aviation industry has warned the central government it may be forced to stop operations. The Federation of Indian Airlines says any further pricing distortions or sharp increases in ATF could push carriers into insurmountable losses, leading to aircraft grounding and flight cancellations.
Airtel Money, the mobile money unit of Airtel Africa, is reportedly preparing for a London IPO that could raise $1.5 billion to $2 billion. The deal is aimed at valuing the business at as much as $10 billion, positioning it for a major role in European capital markets. London is seen as the preferred listing venue.
Iran’s leadership dynamics have reportedly shifted as top command authority moves toward military commanders and the IRGC, with the Supreme Leader’s direct role appearing diminished. The change is linked to harsher, faster wartime decision-making and helps explain why U.S. talks have dragged, with no single leadership figure coordinating policy across foreign and domestic fronts.
US gasoline prices are climbing fast, reaching near four-year highs as disruption fears linked to the late-February US and Israel attacks on Iran ripple through fuel markets. The national average retail price has jumped about $1.19 a gallon, roughly 40%, pushing costs higher for consumers while traders watch for further escalation and supply shocks.
The Enforcement Directorate has attached assets worth more than Rs 1,100 crore linked to Raheja Developers, citing a money-laundering probe into alleged fraud against homebuyers. During recent searches, the agency seized bullion and foreign currency. It alleges that money collected from over 4,600 homebuyers was siphoned off and used for purposes unrelated to the projects.
The EU is set to overhaul its industrial approach with the “Made in Europe” framework under the Industrial Accelerator Act. The plan targets stronger domestic manufacturing, less dependence on foreign suppliers, and job protection amid fears of deindustrialisation and strategic reliance, escalating economic tensions as China-related disputes intensify.
In Bengal’s crucial Bhowanipore contest, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee squares off against former aide Suvendu Adhikari in a rematch loaded with political meaning. Trinamool is trying to hold its stronghold, while BJP pushes to break into the pocket’s diverse voter base, where local strategies and sensitivities could decide more than one seat.
Integral Ad Science (IAS) has launched IAS Total TV to bring “linear-like” transparency to connected TV advertising. The solution is designed to show marketers where their ads appear across major streaming platforms, while delivering a unified view of campaign performance and brand safety—addressing growing demand for visibility as streaming ad budgets rise.
Kissht founders Ranvir Singh and Krishnan Vishwanathan invested Rs 40 crore in the digital lending startup at a premium over its upcoming IPO price. The purchase comes just days before the company’s April 30 IPO, seeking to raise Rs 926 crore and target a valuation of Rs 3,062 crore—signaling confidence ahead of listing.
IAMAI has accused TRAI of overstepping its authority, saying proposed spam-call regulations could unfairly target OTT platforms like WhatsApp. The industry body argues OTT services are not telecommunication services and warns that mandatory data sharing would violate constitutional principles, raising serious jurisdiction concerns for digital platforms.
Barrick Mining has appointed Wessel Hamman as chief financial officer for a new North America-focused company formed to hold its regional assets after its IPO. Tim Cribb will take over as chief operating officer. The leadership announcements add clarity to how Barrick plans to run its North American operations as the IPO structure rolls out.
TSMC expects its 2-nanometer chip production to expand rapidly, projecting about 70% annual growth from 2026 through 2028. The company is also gearing up its next A13 process for volume production in 2029. Together, these moves target rising AI and high-performance computing demand, while TSMC continues broadening global manufacturing capacity for future chip designs.
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