Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
Digital insurer Acko is preparing a confidential IPO, looking to raise about $250 million and target a valuation range of roughly $2 billion to $2.5 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. The company has reportedly brought in top investment banks and plans to file its prospectus by June. Acko was founded by Varun Dua and sells insurance direct to consumers.
Indian markets brace for a tough week as the rupee and government bond yields look set for further declines. Brent crude is hovering near $107 after President Trump told envoys not to resume Iran peace talks, reviving fears of higher imported inflation. Traders also cite widening deficits, adding pressure on both currency and debt.
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Kolkata Knight Riders batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been fined 20% of his match fee and handed a demerit point for a Level 1 IPL Code of Conduct breach. The action followed a controversial moment against Lucknow Super Giants, where frustration spilled over as he obstructed a field dismissal and was seen abusing cricket equipment.
Reports say the Iran conflict is costing the US close to $1 billion per day, with independent estimates placing spending between $28 billion and $35 billion over about 38 days. The same figures point to rapid depletion of key weapon stockpiles, prompting concern in the Pentagon and Congress about whether US forces can sustain operations and remain prepared long term.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has urged Indians to skip air conditioning and carry an onion to handle extreme summer heat, pointing to his “Chambal skin” and traditional remedies. His comments come as many states see 40 to 46°C temperatures and heatwave warnings are issued, underscoring the tension between age-old advice and the rising severity of heat.
Adani Power and Tata Power shares jumped, hitting fresh 52-week highs as India’s heatwave pushes expectations of stronger electricity demand. With regions warning of extreme temperatures up to 45°C, analysts say a likely strong El Niño could further lift cooling-related consumption. The stocks have soared as much as 48% in a month, reflecting bullish demand bets.
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Pakistan has reportedly enabled a legal pathway for Iran-bound cargo to move via land, effectively weakening the US naval blockade strategy. The development coincides with Pakistan’s role in mediating a potential US-Iran ceasefire, even as the US Treasury announced fresh sanctions on Iran. The combined moves raise questions about how airtight Washington’s isolation efforts truly are.
Iran’s foreign minister Araghchi is traveling to St Petersburg for talks with Russian officials, focusing on bilateral ties and broader regional issues. The US-Iran conflict is expected to feature prominently. The visit marks the final leg of a regional tour that also included Pakistan and Oman, as Iran looks to safeguard its national interests amid rising tensions.
Asia’s trading landscape is splitting sharply: South and Southeast markets are squeezed by rising oil prices tied to conflict, pressuring trade and shares. Meanwhile, North Asia’s tech giants are climbing to record highs, powered by AI enthusiasm. The result is a widening divide as investors increasingly favor future growth themes over near-term geopolitical and energy risks.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has called a meeting with auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers’ associations to implement compulsory practical Marathi language knowledge for drivers. Starting May 1, authorities will check documents and also test spoken Marathi during verification drives. Drivers who fail to comply could face action under the new rule, with enforcement beginning immediately after the rollout.
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A Mumbai court has ordered the unfreezing of actor Rhea Chakraborty’s bank account and that of her brother. The Narcotics Control Bureau’s freeze was struck down for procedural lapses under the NDPS Act, with the court noting the NCB failed to secure confirmation from a competent authority within the required time.
Suzlon Energy shares rose about 4% for a second straight session, riding optimism around India’s growing electricity demand and the company’s position in wind power. Analysts point to expectations for a strong March quarter, improved financial performance, and rising institutional investor interest as key drivers. The stock’s momentum is sparking renewed questions on whether the renewable play has more upside.
As of April 2026, US visa interview wait times differ sharply across Indian cities. Chennai reportedly offers the fastest access for visitor visa applicants, with appointments around four months away, while cities like Mumbai and Kolkata see longer delays. By contrast, student and work visa applicants usually face shorter wait times, making city choice a major factor for planning.
Donald W. Riegle, a former Michigan Congressman and U.S. Senator who served nearly three decades, has died at 88. Over his long career he switched from Republican to Democrat, championing working people’s rights and opposing NAFTA. He also backed financial reforms and improved veteran treatment, leaving behind a legacy his family called courageous leadership.
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India’s first dedicated commercial seaplane operator, SkyHop Aviation, has received its Air Operator Certificate from the DGCA after successful test flights. The airline now plans to begin operations using a 19-seater aircraft, aiming to connect Lakshadweep islands with the mainland and boost regional travel options where regular air access is limited.
India’s $85 billion gems and jewellery sector is set for a fresh push after the government expanded the FTWZ. Officials say the move can unlock new opportunities for exporters and traders, strengthening India’s position as a dependable global trading hub and narrowing the gap with established centers like Dubai and Hong Kong.
Houston Rockets survived the pressure in Game 4, crushing the Los Angeles Lakers 115-96 to avoid elimination. Amen Thompson top-scored with 23 points as Houston’s defense suffocated LA and its offense stayed balanced. Still, the Lakers hold a 3-1 series lead, setting up Game 5 in Los Angeles with the Rockets chasing another turnaround.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has decided not to appear further in the excise policy case, writing to Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma to inform her of his choice. The move comes after the Delhi High Court rejected his plea to recuse the judge, with Kejriwal alleging perceived bias and calling it a conscientious protest over fairness concerns.
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A shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner sent attendees into chaos, with social media focusing on a viral video showing US Vice-President JD Vance being rushed offstage before President Donald Trump. The incident has sparked intense debate online over whether the movement was standard security protocol or an embarrassing lapse, as footage spreads and reactions flood in.
West Bengal’s election fight may come down to the southern belt: North and South 24 Parganas alongside Kolkata and Howrah. With 91 assembly seats at stake, the TMC is defending its core base while the BJP pushes to break in. Revisions to voter lists are adding unpredictability, heightening what’s already a high-stakes contest for the road to power.
Jaipur went on high alert after Rajasthan’s Legislative Assembly received an anonymous bomb threat via email on Friday. The warning sparked an immediate evacuation of premises as security agencies swung into action to inspect and clear the area. It marks the second such security scare in under two weeks, raising concerns about escalating disruptions targeting state institutions.
Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services shares jumped 10% after Q4 net profit rose 55% year over year to Rs 873 crore. The rally followed margin expansion and strict cost discipline, alongside stronger operating metrics: AUM grew 12%, disbursements rose 11%, and NIM climbed to 7.5%. Credit costs remained stable, signaling resilience as demand and profitability improved.
India’s government bond prices slipped early Monday as optimism for a US-Iran diplomatic breakthrough faded. With geopolitical uncertainty rising and oil prices increasing amid supply anxiety, pressure is building on import-sensitive markets. Investors are also bracing for global monetary policy moves this week, even as domestic swap rates held steady, leaving traders focused on the next headline.
Eveready Industries has inaugurated a Rs 200 crore alkaline battery manufacturing plant in Jammu, expanding what is described as India’s only operating alkaline battery facility. The new capacity is designed to meet rising demand for high-performance power solutions while reducing reliance on imported batteries. The company expects the initiative to strengthen local employment and improve supply chain resilience.
Lucknow Super Giants coach Justin Langer defended sending Nicholas Pooran to bat in the Super Over against Sunil Narine, despite the batter being out of form. Langer said Pooran’s previous record versus Narine made him the best option. He added that management trusted the player under pressure, while also praising Mohsin Khan’s strong bowling performance.
A CISF jawan was injured in a late-night firing incident outside BJP candidate Pawan Singh’s residence in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas, just ahead of the second phase of polling. The Election Commission has sought a detailed report on what triggered the shots and whether security lapses contributed to the attack.
West Bengal Police arrested four people for Sunday night violence involving TMC and BJP supporters outside the Jagatdal Police Station. The clashes reportedly escalated ahead of the Monday political schedule, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to hold a high-profile public meeting in the region. Authorities say arrests are linked to the disturbance and ongoing investigations continue.
An elderly Sikh man was assaulted in Woodstock, Ontario, while the attacker hurled racist slurs and demanded he “get out of my country.” Police say they are investigating the incident as hate-motivated and have arrested the youth, who faces multiple charges. The World Sikh Organisation condemned the attack and urged broader action against rising hate.
The Social Security Administration has released its May 2026 payment calendar with five key distribution dates. SSI recipients receive benefits on May 1 and May 2, while other beneficiaries are paid in a staggered schedule tied to birth dates. The timetable is designed to help millions access payments throughout the month without delay.
In a new 60 Minutes interview, President Donald Trump revisited the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner shooting, describing his immediate reaction and how quickly alarms spread. He addressed concerns about the suspect’s radicalization and what authorities and families should consider. Trump also called for stronger White House security, while praising law enforcement’s fast response.
Axis Bank shares fell sharply on Monday after investors digested the bank’s fourth-quarter earnings report. The stock opened lower, slid more than 3.5% in morning trade, and touched an intraday low around ₹1,299.90. By 10:52 IST, Axis Bank was trading near ₹1,317.80 on the NSE, down about 3.5% from the previous close.
R&B singer Chris Brown and girlfriend Jada Wallace have welcomed their first child together, with Wallace confirming the news in a social media post featuring the newborn. Brown acknowledged it in the comments with a “Taurus gang” remark. The baby also brings Brown’s total children to four, after weeks of pregnancy speculation kicked off around Paris Fashion Week.
Despite a global crude oil jump fueled by geopolitical tensions and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, diesel retail rates in major Indian cities stayed unchanged on April 27. Still, analysts warn oil marketing companies could push prices higher, potentially by around Rs 10 per litre, to recover losses. City-wise rates remain steady but the next revision may not.
Shriram Finance shares slipped nearly 4% even after strong Q4 FY26 performance, with profit rising 41% and AUM growth staying healthy. Despite the selloff, brokerages including Nomura, JM Financial and Motilal Oswal Financial Services retained “Buy” ratings, pointing to resilient fundamentals and promising medium-term growth prospects.
Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC) will announce Class 12 results on April 28, 2026. Students can download scorecards from ahsec.assam.gov.in and resultsassam.nic.in. Science, Arts, and Commerce results will be declared together, with availability also via SMS. The council will announce the results during an official press conference.
Hindustan Zinc shares rose nearly 5% after the company reported a strong Q4 FY26, with profit up 68% year-on-year and revenue climbing 49%. Investors cheered record metal production, top-tier EBITDA margins, and the declaration of an interim dividend. The upbeat mix of operating performance and shareholder payout lifted sentiment on Monday.
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag is under pressure as his team takes on unbeaten Punjab Kings, who have won six of seven games. Punjab’s batting, led by Shreyas Iyer, has been dominant, including a stunning chase of a record 265. Rajasthan has lost momentum after a strong start, and their fielding has raised concerns.
Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu has urged NRIs, particularly in the US, to return to India. He argues that America’s perception of India is changing and links that respect to India’s growing economic strength. Vembu says bringing back overseas talent can speed up innovation and guide India’s youth, strengthening the country’s global standing.
Mirzapur writer-director Karan Anshuman, gearing up for his Haryana-set crime series Glory, says AI could lower filmmaking budgets and help Bollywood sharpen storytelling to compete with Hollywood’s big budgets. While he’s excited about new creative possibilities, he also flags real risks: job displacement and ethical concerns that must be handled carefully.
Rajya Sabha Secretariat has accepted Raghav Chadha and six other AAP MPs’ request to merge with the BJP. The change boosts BJP strength to 113 and pushes the NDA beyond 140, while AAP’s Rajya Sabha tally falls sharply to just three members. The move immediately reshapes voting arithmetic in the Upper House.
A viral video from Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, shows a school principal reportedly shouting at a parent for allegedly not buying school books. Witnessed as repeated “shut up” remarks in under a minute, the confrontation also included abusive language. The clip triggered backlash, prompting the principal to issue a clarification soon after the storm over his conduct.
India Cements shares rallied about 10% after reporting a sharp Q4 turnaround. Net profit surged 300% year-on-year to Rs 60 crore, largely boosted by a strong rise in EBITDA. Revenue growth, however, stayed modest at roughly 3%, leaving investors focused on what drove the big bottom-line swing.
India and New Zealand will sign a Free Trade Agreement on April 27, 2026, creating dedicated visa pathways for 5,000 Indian professionals and 1,000 Work and Holiday visas. The deal is designed to boost labor mobility and expand opportunities across IT, healthcare and education, while also supporting students with post-study work rights.
Three days after leaving Aam Aadmi Party for BJP, former AAP leader Raghav Chadha delivered his first detailed defence, framing himself as the “right man in the wrong party.” He claims he was silenced inside AAP, alleges corruption at the top, and argues that multiple dissenters can’t all be mistaken despite his high-profile exit.
Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan has approved the merger of seven AAP MPs with the BJP, a decision finalised on April 27, 2026. The move sharply weakens the Aam Aadmi Party’s standing in the Upper House and shifts the balance of power, lifting the BJP tally to 113 and intensifying the political crisis for Arvind Kejriwal’s party.
Tata Elxsi has announced that CFO Gaurav Bajaj will resign on May 29, 2026, with Nalin Rana stepping in as the new Chief Financial Officer from May 30, 2026. Rana is expected to bring finance and strategy expertise from prior roles within the Tata Group and investment banking. The company says the change follows regulatory requirements.
Paytm shares fell as much as 8% to an intraday low of Rs 1055.25 on April 27 after the RBI cancelled the license of Paytm Payments Bank Ltd. The central bank’s decision follows tighter restrictions on the payments bank’s core activities, adding fresh uncertainty for investors tied to Paytm’s fintech business.
Reliance Industries shares fell more than 1% after Q4 profit declined 13% year on year, even as revenue grew. Still, most brokerages stayed constructive, pointing to potential recovery in O2C, stable momentum in retail and digital, and improving margins. They also flagged near-term challenges across energy and petrochemicals that could weigh on sentiment.
Global oil prices surged Monday, with Brent pushing toward $107 and WTI also climbing, after President Donald Trump cancelled high-level peace talks with Iran. The move further clouded prospects for easing the U.S.-Iran standoff, while the Strait of Hormuz remained a key flashpoint. Even as India’s retail fuel prices hold steady, rising “Indian Basket” costs could fuel future inflation.
In Jharkhand’s Bajto village, a 7-year-old died and nearly 20 others were hospitalized after eating roadside golgappas. Health officials are investigating the vendor, suspecting stale or improperly stored ingredients worsened by the current heatwave. Samples of food taken from the stall are being tested to confirm the cause, leaving the community anxious.
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