Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
As costs rise and customers change how they spend, bars are rethinking cocktail pricing. Venues such as Gus' Sip & Dip and Radicle have launched cocktails around $12 and $10 by tightening ingredient sourcing and reducing waste. The goal is to make cocktails more accessible, keep regulars coming back, and preserve the momentum of cocktail culture despite higher expenses.
Chennai Super Kings have signed South African all-rounder Dian Forrester as replacement for the injured Jamie Overton. The move brings Forrester to CSK for Rs 75 lakh, with the team betting on his batting and bowling as the tournament enters a critical phase. CSK are currently fifth and next take on Lucknow Super Giants.
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A sudden surge in block trades is reigniting optimism for India’s equity capital markets after a weak start to 2026. May block trade proceeds hit Rs 200 billion, the highest so far this year, driven by major deals including stake sales at Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone and investment platform Groww. The rebound contrasts with lackluster IPO fundraising and lagging equity performance.
The Centre has allocated Rs 4,900 crore to Arunachal Pradesh under the new Pride of Hills scheme. The funds are meant to address key infrastructure and development gaps, with a focus on improving connectivity in remote areas. Chief Minister Pema Khandu thanked the government, saying the initiative will support long-term economic growth across the state.
West Bengal has rolled out new guidelines tightening controls on animal slaughter. Authorities now require animals to have a “fit certificate” before they can be slaughtered, and slaughter in public places is prohibited. The rules, aligned with court directions and existing laws, provide for penalties including imprisonment and fines to curb illegal and inhumane practices.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered mandatory work-from-home for government employees, requiring two days each week. The Labour Department will oversee implementation, and private companies and institutions are being asked to adopt a similar policy. The move targets how government work is scheduled while expanding remote work guidance beyond public offices.
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Russia mounted its largest aerial assault in a two-day stretch, firing hundreds of drones and missiles that struck Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities. The attacks damaged residential and other infrastructure, killing at least 11 people. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on Western partners to keep backing air-defense systems as the strikes continue.
Airtel founder Sunil Bharti Mittal is preparing for a leadership transition over the next ten years, according to the plan shaping the Bharti group’s next chapter. His three children are carving distinct professional routes—Kavin as a tech entrepreneur, Shravin as an investor and dealmaker, and Eiesha leading lifestyle ventures—hinting at how future leadership could be formed.
Rajasthan Royals star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has received his maiden India A call-up after the BCCI announced the squad for an upcoming ODI tri-series in Sri Lanka. The selection follows growing confidence in his India prospects, with reports suggesting he has been on the radar for the national setup. The tri-series could become a crucial first platform for him.
Canada’s soccer team is preparing for a defining moment at the 2026 World Cup, with the nation set to host matches and ride a surge in local interest. Backed by top stars like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, Canada believes it can contend—not just participate—while the home tournament promises to lift soccer’s profile across the country.
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India’s geothermal resources are estimated at 11,000 GW, with the potential to support electricity, cooling, and industrial heat while creating up to 700,000 jobs. After slow progress in the past, new technologies and policy momentum are making large-scale geothermal projects more realistic. Geothermal could also strengthen energy security with minimal environmental impact and independence from weather swings.
Delhi’s government has unveiled new steps to conserve fuel and reduce avoidable spending, following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for mindful consumption. The plan includes expanding online meetings and encouraging virtual academic sessions for colleges and universities wherever feasible, signaling a potential return of more remote learning options.
The CBDT’s Central Action Plan 2026-27 signals major upgrades for taxpayers, including a more technology-driven TDS framework and faster resolution of tax disputes. The roadmap targets streamlined processes, improved efficiency and stronger taxpayer services, aiming to make outcomes more predictable and governance more responsive across the tax administration system.
The Indian rupee has hit a record low near 96 per US dollar as elevated oil prices and portfolio outflows increase pressure on the economy. Policymakers are reportedly weighing tax reductions for foreign investors in bonds to pull in more dollar inflows. With persistent balance of payments deficits and rising wholesale inflation, rupee weakness appears set to continue.
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TSMC’s leadership says AI is set to overtake smartphones as the semiconductor industry’s biggest growth engine. Speaking at the 2026 Taiwan Technology Symposium, Kevin Zhang projected global chip output could hit $1.5 trillion by 2030, signaling a major shift in how demand is being shaped as AI workloads drive new chip priorities and investment cycles.
Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh says CUET has boosted diversity by widening equal access for students. He also outlined the ongoing rollout of the four-year undergraduate programme under India’s NEP, backed by new infrastructure expansion. DU is simultaneously ramping up focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to broaden future learning and job opportunities.
Instagram has launched Instants, a new ephemeral photo-sharing feature designed for spontaneous, unedited moments. Shared images appear in a stack within Instagram inboxes and disappear after they’ve been viewed. Instagram also released a standalone companion app for faster camera access. The feature is rolling out globally starting today.
Arunachal Pradesh announced cost-cutting and efficiency measures to reduce spending and streamline governance. The official notification bans foreign travel by Ministers and government officials for the next one year. It also orders a 50% reduction in the convoy strength of Ministers, citing efforts to optimize fuel usage and improve the movement of officials across departments.
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Alembic Pharmaceuticals has received USFDA tentative approval for its generic Darolutamide tablets used in prostate cancer treatment. The approval applies to the 300 mg strength, positioning Alembic’s product as a generic equivalent to Nubeqa Tablets. With significant demand expected for this category, the company could gain momentum as it moves toward final commercialization.
Thailand has introduced eight new alcohol restrictions covering public spaces, government areas, and transport facilities, effective immediately. Alcohol sales are banned on roads and in vehicles, with added limits for train stations and trains. The rules also extend to public piers, ferry terminals, and other transport stations, reshaping what tourists can buy and drink while traveling.
Kannada actor Dileep Raj died after a suspected cardiac arrest, with reports claiming smartwatch readings may have delayed him from seeking urgent medical help. The case is reigniting warnings from experts that wearables can’t replace professional diagnosis, and concerning symptoms should be treated immediately rather than relying on device reassurance.
Reports claim Donald Trump left JD Vance a sealed “If I Die” letter ahead of a China trip, with a counterterrorism official describing it as written instructions for the vice president in case the president dies in office. The letter is said to be stored in the Resolute Desk, reflecting heightened security protocols amid ongoing assassination threats during international travel.
The Election Commission of India has announced a Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in Maharashtra, with Booth Level Officers set to visit nearly 9.86 crore voters’ homes for verification. Political parties will support the process to improve accuracy. The exercise includes training, house-to-house checks, and the publication of draft and final electoral rolls to keep voter lists updated.
Suriya and Trisha’s upcoming film Karuppu hit a tense release-day moment as early morning shows were cancelled abruptly. Fans staged protests amid silence from the production house, claims from theatre exhibitors, and an emotional appeal from director Suriya. The situation escalated further as bookings reportedly opened very late, fueling allegations of something being handled behind the scenes despite CM Vijay’s special sign-off.
An analysis finds 1.71 billion adults worldwide lived with hypertension in 2020, with the burden concentrated in low- and middle-income countries. While high-income nations improved blood pressure control, poorer countries saw far weaker progress—widening a gap in preventing and managing a condition strongly linked to heart disease and early death.
Bali’s immigration authorities are warning tourists and influencers against doing unpaid promotional or work-like activities on visitor visas. Officials say collaborations that appear harmless, including portfolio building, can still breach immigration rules. Travelers are urged to match their activities to their visa purpose or face scrutiny and potential sanctions, with other visa routes available for genuine professional work.
In the NEET UG 2026 paper leak case, an accused alleges that influential people are being protected while smaller players are targeted. The CBI has arrested five individuals across three states, suspecting a multi-state network involving coaching institutes, courier services, and social media. Investigators are now scanning digital records and financial trails to identify larger operators.
Tata Motors’ Passenger Vehicles division reported net profit down 32% year-on-year to Rs 5,783 crore, even as revenue from operations rose 7% to Rs 1.05 lakh crore. The company recommended a final dividend of Rs 3 per share. Challenges around JLR also weighed on overall performance, pressuring revenue and profit despite growth in topline.
Signature Global says it is aiming for a 21% rise in sales bookings to Rs 10,000 crore in FY27, after a 20% contraction in the prior fiscal. The firm also reported a sharp jump in net profit last year, and is betting on fresh projects and strategic partnerships to accelerate growth in the coming months.
HFCL, known for telecom equipment, plans to invest Rs 230 crore to set up a defence manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The plant will produce multi mode hand grenades and related products, with operations targeted by December 2027. Funding will come from a mix of internal accruals, debt, and convertible warrants, marking a push into defence manufacturing.
Nothing’s Bengaluru flagship has reportedly drawn over 61,000 visitors and generated more than $1.3 million in revenue in just three months. The momentum is tied to demand for the Nothing Phone 4a and a fresh push with the CMF Watch 3 Pro, as the brand leans into India’s youth-driven smartphone market despite broader industry slowdown.
JSW Steel reported a sharp jump in Q4 earnings, with profit before tax more than doubling for the quarter ended March 31. The company attributed the surge to recovering steel prices and steady demand, despite higher costs linked to the Iran war. Consolidated profit before exceptional items and tax stood at Rs 44.89 billion, underscoring resilience as the market firms up.
India’s EV battery demand is projected to grow tenfold, reaching 200 GWh by 2032, according to IESA. The surge is expected to reshape India’s supply chain and boost localization of key components like cells, motors, and manufacturing capabilities. While electric two-wheelers currently lead, passenger cars and light commercial fleets are poised to drive the next phase.
Uttar Pradesh is bracing for further heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds as the IMD issues orange alerts for Lucknow and Kanpur, with additional severe-weather risks in specific districts. The state has already mourned 104 deaths linked to recent storms, triggering immediate relief and compensation orders from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. New advanced weather forecasting systems are also being rolled out.
Shadowfax reported a consolidated net profit of ₹55.8 crore in Q4 FY26, reversing a ₹9.9 crore loss in the year-ago quarter. Revenue from operations jumped 73.6% YoY to ₹1,237 crore, with total income at ₹1,242.6 crore. Costs also rose 64.2%, but profit still grew nearly 60% sequentially.
India’s industrial and warehousing market stayed resilient in the March quarter as manufacturing and third-party logistics drove occupier activity across major cities. Leasing transactions rose 15% year-on-year to 19.3 million sq ft, with Mumbai posting the strongest momentum through a 66% jump in transactions. Rental values also moved up across key markets.
The Delhi High Court has announced it will initiate contempt proceedings against defamatory content circulated online targeting Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma. The judge said the material is linked to the Delhi excise policy case and was discussed in open court. Justice Sharma indicated she cannot remain silent, adding that a detailed order will be issued later today.
Matrimony’s Q4 FY26 profit rose 18.3% year-on-year to ₹9.7 crore, with revenue from operations up 7.8% to ₹116.8 crore. Sequentially, profit increased 16.9% and revenue edged higher. Total expenses rose just 0.5% to ₹110 crore, even as total income reached ₹121.9 crore, helped by finance and other income. The company also announced a ₹5 dividend.
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a “good meeting” in Washington focused on expanding market access for American businesses in China and encouraging Chinese investment in US industries. They also addressed global security, stressing that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to keep energy flowing freely, as discussions touched Iran-related concerns and regional stability.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will lay the foundation stone for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme infrastructure in Sri Sathya Sai district. The event will also see launches of multiple defence, aerospace, and drone manufacturing initiatives—signaling Andhra Pradesh’s push to become a central hub for these industries.
S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures rose to new highs as Nvidia climbed in premarket trading. The stock gained 1.9%, lifting its valuation to about $5.9 trillion. Reuters, citing sources, reported the U.S. has cleared roughly 10 Chinese firms to buy Nvidia’s second-most powerful AI chip, the H200, fueling renewed market optimism.
Rama Subramaniam Gandhi, a former RBI deputy governor, has been appointed non-executive chairman of Sahamati, the industry alliance backing the Account Aggregator ecosystem. Sahamati has also added new independent directors as adoption of consent-based financial data sharing expands across sectors, signaling growing trust and momentum for smoother, permissioned access to user financial information.
Global markets turned mixed as Wall Street tech stocks pushed indexes to fresh record closes, while Japan’s Nikkei struggled to hold its record run. Early gains tied to AI-related Japanese firms faded as investors refocused on rising inflation and looming interest rate pressures, cooling sentiment despite the broader tech-driven optimism.
DLF Ltd, India’s largest realty firm, plans to invest an additional Rs 21,300 crore to complete its ongoing residential projects in Gurugram and other cities. The move comes as the company holds sizable customer receivables. DLF has also rolled out fresh projects, including a luxury development, while sales bookings eased but profits and total income rose.
Powerful thunderstorms ripped through Uttar Pradesh, leaving at least 89 people dead and major damage across several districts. Prayagraj, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Fatehpur, and Mirzapur were among the worst hit, with homes damaged, trees uprooted, and livestock perishing. Officials are assessing losses and rushing assistance to affected families as communities mourn the tragedy.
A woman with gradual left-sided hearing loss and balance issues for months was eventually diagnosed after an MRI revealed a vestibular schwannoma near a brain nerve. The case, shared by Dr Sudhir Kumar, pointed to warning signs that can seem minor at first, like persistent tinnitus and subtle imbalance, stressing the need to evaluate ongoing one-sided symptoms.
Foxconn confirmed a ransomware cyberattack that hit some North American factories. The hacking group Nitrogen claims it exfiltrated more than 11 million files and about eight terabytes of data, potentially including customer details, product schematics, and bank statements. Foxconn says operations are resuming while cybersecurity teams continue investigations and response work.
The Delhi High Court has sought responses from the Centre and the Delhi government after the Indian National Congress petitioned for execution of the sale deed for its former headquarters at 7 Jantar Mantar Road. The party says it has been in possession for decades and paid sale consideration in 1959, but the legal process has not been completed.
Goldman Sachs’ president John Waldron says the firm is rolling out generative AI “digital agents” to automate work and improve productivity, while insisting recent layoffs aren’t driven by AI. He frames the change as upgrading the “human assembly line,” adding new tech roles even as tasks get automated. The shift is linked to post-COVID adjustments and changing business needs.
Ola Electric is reportedly in talks with global and domestic automakers to supply lithium-ion cells and battery packs. With its Krishnagiri gigafactory planned for major capacity expansion, the company aims to shift from primarily making batteries for its own vehicles to becoming a key supplier for India’s growing EV and energy-storage ecosystem.
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