Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
Japan is set to increase visa renewal and permanent residency fees through proposed amendments to the Immigration Control Act. A five-year visa renewal is expected to cost around 70,000 yen, while permanent residency permits could climb to 200,000 yen. The government says the changes reflect shifting administrative needs, with higher ceilings for fees.
India is set to begin talks with Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia to increase flight capacity, as the West Asia conflict limits how much Indian airlines can expand. With Southeast Asia a top choice for Indian travellers, more routes and seats could improve travel options and help steady or reduce airfares while diversifying destinations.
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ISRO says its CE20 cryogenic engine cleared a sea level hot test at a higher thrust setting, reaching 22 tonne of thrust. The successful performance matters for boosting the payload capacity of the LVM3 rocket, with upcoming missions expected to use an uprated C32 stage. The test also confirmed key technologies and met expected parameters.
Foreign institutional investors have been selling shares in 146 Indian companies for four consecutive quarters, cutting across sectors and market caps. While some stocks have seen sharp value erosion, others posted gains despite FII exits, leaving investors wondering whether this is a warning signal or a potential contrarian buying opportunity. The pattern is raising fresh questions for retail portfolios.
AI adoption is giving NBFCs a measurable edge in lending, helping them win market share by improving credit underwriting and decision speed. The shift could let NBFCs grow faster than traditional banks over the next decade, squeezing incumbents that rely on older risk models and slower processes. As efficiency rises, competitiveness tilts toward AI-first lenders.
Asia’s ultra-rich families are reconsidering Dubai investments and relocation plans as the Iran war raises regional security concerns. Wealth consultants say some clients are postponing moves, reducing exposure, or drawing up contingency plans. The shift reflects how quickly geopolitical risk is reshaping private wealth strategies, even for those with long-standing bases in the emirate.
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Iran’s participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the US remains uncertain. Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the final call will depend on evolving security and political conditions amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran. With FIFA preparations underway, Iran’s stance adds uncertainty to the tournament’s confirmed line-up while diplomatic risks persist.
Pakistani forces say they killed 22 suspected militants in a fierce exchange of fire in Khyber district near the Afghan border, but the operation also left a 10-year-old child dead. Prime Minister Sharif condemned the militants, pointing to rising violence along the Afghanistan-linked frontier. The incident underscores strained ties and persistent tensions with Kabul.
Executive search firms report a sharp rise in enquiries from senior professionals stationed in West Asia about opportunities in India, up 25% to 30% in recent days. Uncertainty and safety concerns tied to the ongoing conflict are driving many to reconsider career plans, with employers seeing more India focused discussions than before.
Dubai has opened its first air taxi station near Dubai International Airport, part of a plan to build four hubs across the city. After successful test flights and trials, the operator is now seeking certification for a commercial launch. The developer will run the service, while regulators manage oversight and integration with broader aviation systems.
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Global alcohol markets are shrinking, but India’s premium liquor segment is accelerating. While worldwide volumes and values are declining, India is bucking the trend, pointing to a rising preference for prestige whiskies and premium white spirits rather than cheaper options.
A UN-backed report says two-thirds of the world’s most severe food crises last year were concentrated in just 10 countries. Sudan, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo accounted for a third of the burden. Conflict is identified as the main driver, and 2026 looks worse as fighting continues alongside climate extremes.
Tata’s Trent is pushing its Zudio and Westside stores beyond Bengaluru and Mumbai, targeting faster-growing Tier II and III markets. The company posted a 26% jump in Q4 net profit and announced its first-ever bonus issue, signaling confidence. Still, Trent warned that consumer demand remains cautious amid geopolitical uncertainties and rising input costs.
Rakesh Bedi, 71, became a breakout highlight in the Dhurandhar franchise as Jameel Jamali, sparking reports of a Rs 1 crore bonus for his performance. But Bedi has laughed off the claim, saying he did not receive any such payment and would only collect it if he somehow finds the money. The franchise’s success continues to boost his appeal.
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Tesla’s long-awaited Cybercab robotaxi has reportedly entered production, with CEO Elon Musk sharing videos of the driverless vehicle rolling off the factory floor. The announcement comes right after Tesla’s first-quarter profit update. Tesla now targets volume production of both the Cybercab and Tesla Semi this year, building on the stepless design first unveiled in 2024.
Even as India’s FMCG index has fallen nearly 20% from its peak, Britannia is gaining ground. With a new CEO steering a turnaround, the company is leaning into underused ‘resident jewels’—older or less-highlighted brands—to improve margins and reshape its growth narrative. The strategy suggests value is being unlocked from what the market ignored.
Tata Capital expects a strong FY27 performance supported by growth, better margins and operating efficiency. The firm highlights a continued drop in credit costs, attributing it to a disciplined risk culture and the adoption of AI. Looking ahead to FY28, it targets 23–25% loan growth, focusing on housing finance and retail products to improve returns.
India has overtaken US and China to become the world’s biggest tractor market, now capturing about half of global wheeled-tractor sales. That rise is happening despite slow agri GDP growth and shrinking farm sizes. With farming not doing the heavy lifting, the question is: what demand is really propelling tractor sales across India?
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Budget 2026 27 doubles down on jobs and long term capacity, casting the plan as Make in India 2.0 in practice. The strategy leans on self reliance and stronger domestic manufacturing, partly to offset concerns over weak FDI and FPI outflows. But the real test now is delivery across key sectors.
Indian single malt producers are reportedly seeking a clear category definition from FSSAI, aiming to formalize what “single malt” means for regulation and labeling. The move could influence how products are classified on shelves, how brands market their premium positioning, and even what consumers expect. ET Prime examines the strategy and its potential sales impact.
Chennai Super Kings have brought in right-arm fast bowler Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out for the rest of IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. The team confirmed the move after the injury update, giving CSK another pace option for the tournament’s remaining stretch.
A Sebi report has reopened the Indiabulls YES Bank saga, citing prima facie evidence that loans were routed between promoter-linked entities via IHFL and other NBFCs on a quid pro quo basis. The findings were reportedly sent to the banking regulator in 2022. Sammaan Capital argues such SPV-backed lending is common in real estate and denies any link to Sameer Gehlaut.
RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra said the central bank’s currency forward curbs are temporary and do not signal any structural policy shift. He stressed the RBI remains committed to developing and deepening FX markets and to the internationalisation of the rupee, suggesting the current restrictions will eventually ease as those goals progress.
Rakesh Bedi responded to reports that he received a Rs 1 crore bonus for Dhurandhar 2, saying the money hasn’t reached his account and he doesn’t know “kiski jeb mein hai.” While the buzz turned out to be false, his portrayal of Jameel Jamali has drawn praise and helped the film cross Rs 1,100 crore at the box office.
Artemis II will send astronauts farther than ever, placing them in deep space radiation. NASA is monitoring their health with advanced sensors and collecting biological samples to track how radiation affects the body and mind. The findings are expected to shape safety standards for future Moon bases and Mars missions, where long-duration exposure will be a major challenge.
A US federal judge has rejected Binance’s bid to force crypto loss claims into arbitration. The court said customers can sue in regular court over alleged unregistered token sales, citing Binance’s failure to clearly notify users about terms changes that imposed arbitration and waived class-action rights. The ruling revives claims tied to seven tokens.
Sebi has eased IPO-related norms, allowing firms to reduce offer sizes when market sentiment weakens amid fallout from the Iran conflict. The move gives issuers more flexibility to respond to volatility and investor caution, potentially helping deals avoid poor reception and giving companies a better path to pricing and execution in uncertain conditions.
Immigration New Zealand will move family visa applications linked to temporary visa holders to an enhanced online system from June 1, 2026. The change, under its “Our Future Services” programme, is designed to streamline processing, improve the applicant experience with dynamic forms and identity document readers, and reduce waiting times.
The Enforcement Directorate has approached the Supreme Court, arguing its officers should be protected under fundamental rights via Article 32. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that West Bengal has seen serious rule-of-law violations, pointing to a coal smuggling case involving around ₹2,700 crore, and urged protection for ED personnel.
Bira 91, the venture-backed beer brand, is reportedly moving toward founder removal after the board backed action over poor business decisions. Unlike many such cases where employees remain silent, insiders say the staff actively triggered or supported the motion, signaling a rare internal push during a corporate turning point.
Rare earths power modern devices, from electronics to industrial machinery, making their supply a strategic battlefield. Recent events underscore how China’s leverage extends beyond tariffs and into critical minerals access. The takeaway for the world: diversify supply, secure alternatives, and reduce dependence on a single source to protect technology, jobs, and national resilience.
Indian IT services firms are moving from incremental AI experiments to bigger, client-facing commitments tied to productivity gains. The shift raises the stakes: if promised outcomes don’t materialize on time or cost, delivery could become volatile. Analysts warn the next few years may look choppy as contracts, performance expectations, and AI-driven timelines collide.
Kevin Pietersen has urged Jacob Bethell to stay in India for the IPL, arguing that the experience of the tournament helps even when a player isn’t in the playing XI. His stance counters Alastair Cook’s view that Bethell should return to county cricket. Bethell also praised the IPL’s atmosphere and its impact on young players.
A couple was stabbed to death in Moradabad’s Chakkar Ki Milak area, with both victims dying shortly after the attack. Police registered a complaint against five people. The main accused, Fahim, was arrested, while a second suspect, Manas, was caught after fleeing and reportedly attacking police during questioning. The investigation is ongoing.
Pakistan has issued over 2,800 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India to attend Baisakhi celebrations in Punjab. The itinerary includes major gurdwaras such as Panja Sahib, Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, and Kartarpur Sahib. Authorities have finalized security and hospitality, with pilgrims arriving April 10 and the main ceremonies set for April 14.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the first phase of West Bengal polling signals a “wave of change” and claimed BJP’s victory is certain. He accused the TMC of crushing democracy and urged voters to rebuild it. Modi also asserted the TMC is rattled, warning its “goons” will face consequences, and pointed to BJP’s promises on women’s safety and development.
Budget 2026’s proposed tax holiday extension for GIFT City aims to make India’s IFSC more competitive globally. Analysts argue that tax certainty, along with rationalised dividend provisions, can improve investor confidence and encourage deeper onshoring. The move is expected to strengthen GIFT City’s ability to attract international finance business compared with rival centres.
Mumbai Indians owner Akash Ambani reportedly left Wankhede Stadium midway through IPL 2026’s clash against CSK, as MI’s chase of 208 turned grim early. With wickets falling and the batting order struggling to gain momentum, the decision to exit became a talking point amid a night that failed to match MI expectations.
The Supreme Court has resumed hearing the Sabarimala Temple entry case, focusing on whether women aged 10 to 50 can enter. The court’s task is to weigh long-standing religious customs against the constitutional promise of individual equality. Whatever the outcome, it will likely influence the direction of other religious freedom disputes across India.
India is weighing the Maldives’ request to extend a currency swap facility amid mounting financial strain and regional conflict spillovers. Although New Delhi has provided major support in the past, current rules may limit how much it can offer now. A refusal could worsen near-term liquidity as large debt repayments approach.
International students in New Zealand can typically work part-time while studying, and full-time work is allowed during scheduled breaks. The exact rules depend on visa conditions, your course level, and whether you’re studying a taught program or research degree. PhD and research Masters students may have unlimited work hours, but self-employment and some industries can be restricted—always confirm details on your visa.
Harvard and Caltech are reintroducing SAT and ACT scores for admissions, joining a shift already underway at other elite US universities. Dartmouth, Yale, and Brown are also leaning back toward standardized testing to better spot talent from varied backgrounds. MIT reinstated tests after findings tied to Raj Chetty, despite criticism that test use could advantage wealthier applicants.
The US has arranged flights to evacuate Americans from Lebanon amid escalating fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. About 350 Americans and their immediate relatives have already been brought out this week, while thousands remain. More than 6,000 people have contacted the US Embassy in Beirut for departure information as airstrikes continue and commercial flight options dwindle.
Asian markets opened lower Monday as U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran intensified Middle East tensions. U.S. futures fell more than 1% and crude prices surged, while investors flocked to safe havens: gold rose about 2.3% and silver gained around 2.1%. Japan’s Nikkei dropped 2.4% and Australia’s ASX 200 slipped 0.4%.
India’s IT sector is facing short-term disappointment after recent earnings, with investors focusing on margin pressure and conservative growth guidance. Experts, however, argue the long-term outlook remains stable, pointing to AI-driven efficiency gains—especially for large firms—and the potential for steadier, sustainable growth as valuations cool.
NASA’s Curiosity rover has detected more than 20 organic molecules, including structures resembling proto-DNA, in Mars’ Gale Crater. Scientists say the chemistry strengthens evidence that Mars once had environments capable of supporting life. Some of the organics may even have been delivered by meteorites, adding a fresh pathway to how life-building materials could arrive and persist.
European shares fell on Friday and were on track for a weekly decline as investors grew uneasy over stalled progress toward a Middle East conflict resolution. Traders also kept a tight focus on upcoming corporate earnings, weighing whether results can offset geopolitical risk. With sentiment fragile, market moves remained driven by both headlines and company guidance.
New Zealand’s Post Study Work Visa lets international graduates stay after graduation, but the length is tied to qualification level and how long they studied. Master’s and doctoral holders may qualify for up to three years, while other qualifications get a visa matching the study duration. Importantly, delays in finishing studies do not add extra visa time.
Canada will tighten recruitment for low wage roles under its Temporary Foreign Worker Program starting April 1, 2026. Employers must advertise positions for eight weeks and demonstrate efforts to hire youth aged 15 to 30 before applying for an LMIA. The policy is designed to prioritize Canadians and permanent residents and safeguard the domestic labour market.
A viral clip has ignited widespread outrage after a 37-year-old divorced IIT alumnus reportedly demanded a “virgin, Brahmin” bride under 30. The post has triggered fierce debate online, with critics calling it entitlement and misogyny, while others argue it reflects troubling attitudes toward marriage and women’s autonomy. The controversy continues to trend amid calls for accountability.
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