Stories from earlier this week and beyond.
India’s beauty industry is gaining global momentum with “I-beauty,” blending Ayurvedic roots and modern science. Buoyed by growing exports and high-profile acquisitions by major multinationals, Indian brands are positioning affordable, dermo-focused luxury for international consumers. Yet the path is tough, with a crowded global market and entrenched K-beauty competitors.
Indian markets surged again as the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 climbed more than 1% each, extending gains for a second consecutive session. The rally boosted BSE-listed companies’ market capitalization by over Rs 3 lakh crore. The move comes even as investors continue to weigh ongoing global and domestic challenges, making today’s push notable.
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The PFRDA has revised NPS investment rules effective May 13, 2026, allowing pension funds to invest in rupee-denominated bonds issued by the New Development Bank. Until now, such foreign-bond options were limited to issuers like IBRD, IFC and ADB. Credit rating and maturity conditions remain largely unchanged, widening choices for both government and private NPS.
Roche Pharma has launched Tecentriq, India’s first under-the-skin immunotherapy for non small cell lung cancer. The injection takes about seven minutes, aiming to cut the burden of longer intravenous sessions. By simplifying administration, the company says the treatment can improve patient experience and quality of life while delivering essential cancer care more conveniently.
India is reportedly weighing a major cut in taxes on foreign investments in bonds, a proposal backed by the Reserve Bank of India and under serious consideration by the Finance Ministry. The rationale: align with global norms, attract more inflows, and help curb the rupee’s recent slide, which recently hit a fresh record low against the US dollar.
Disappointing IPL seasons have put three captains on the brink: Axar Patel, Ajinkya Rahane, and Rishabh Pant. With their teams missing playoff contention for two straight seasons, sources indicate potential leadership shake-ups when the current season ends. The question now is whether these franchises will replace captains or stick with their current leadership in the push for next season success.
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A new book claims French President Emmanuel Macron exchanged private messages with Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani, which allegedly led to a public marital dispute with first lady Brigitte Macron. The controversy ties back to a viral slap-gate video, which the author frames as a private moment. The book also promises revelations in “forbidden zones” around the couple’s relationship.
A massive explosion struck a firecracker factory near Tonkkala on AB Road in Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, around 11:30 AM. The blast was strong enough to send tremors felt several kilometres away, leaving the community in shock. Authorities are investigating the cause and assessing the damage as victims receive treatment and locals mourn the dead.
Shakira, Madonna and BTS will headline the first-ever halftime show at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19. The event is tied to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, with proceeds supporting expanded education and football access for children worldwide, blending global pop with the sport’s biggest night.
Taiwanese tech giant Foxconn reported a 19% quarterly net profit increase, driven by strong AI server demand. The company expects this momentum to continue as customers expand infrastructure. While its North America factories were hit by a cyberattack, Foxconn says operations are resuming normally. It also noted geopolitical risks aren’t affecting its outlook.
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An IIT Kharagpur graduate claims two job offers were revoked after campus placements, leaving him and other engineering recruits jobless months before graduation. The reason cited: organizational restructuring and changing hiring priorities. The case has reignited fears about job security and is driving students to rethink how much they can rely on candidate loyalty during placement season.
Markets are watching a high-stakes Trump Xi meeting for signs of stability as geopolitical tensions mount. Market strategist Shaun Rein says trade and AI will matter, but the West Asia crisis could dominate talks—partly because the US may rely on China’s diplomatic leverage. The outcome could influence global risk sentiment well beyond the summit.
Iranian media claimed the country’s ambassador to the Vatican received a rare diplomatic honor from Pope Leo XIV. But the US Embassy to the Holy See stepped in to clarify that the recognition is a standard award granted to all ambassadors after two years of service, not a unique papal gesture tied to Iran.
Indian students applying for New Zealand visas are facing longer processing times, with applications averaging around 30 working days—nearly twice as long as Chinese applicants. While rejection rates have reportedly improved, the slow turnaround is worrying students and immigration professionals, raising doubts about whether New Zealand will remain as attractive a study destination.
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India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar says safe and unimpeded maritime trade routes are essential for global economic well-being, warning that turmoil in West Asia directly disrupts shipping and prices. Speaking at a BRICS meeting in New Delhi, he also urged an end to unilateral sanctions, arguing emerging economies need stability and constructive engagement.
Foreign investors have cut Indian equity holdings by about $53 billion since late 2024, leaving the market lagging emerging peers. As FIIs reduce risk, domestic institutions have stepped in and grown their ownership to a record 18.6%, helping “domesticate” market sentiment. Jefferies highlights seven stocks that could better withstand this FII pressure.
After days of suspense, Congress leader VD Satheesan has been named Kerala’s Chief Minister following the UDF’s sweeping win in the 2026 Assembly election. Once seen as a lesser figure, he built momentum through high-voltage opposition politics, razor-sharp messaging, and a campaign that directly took on Pinarayi Vijayan’s decade-long rule and positioned the Congress as the comeback force.
Zaggle’s shares tumbled up to 19% on the BSE despite a solid March quarter, with revenue and net profit rising sharply year-on-year. The selloff was driven by a sequential dip in margins and higher cashback costs, even as operating metrics showed improvement. After paring losses, the stock remained down sharply, logging its biggest single-day drop since listing.
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Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal says he will shift leadership to the next generation within the next decade. He also pointed to the West Asia war’s impact on business operations and admitted dissatisfaction with recent revenue performance. Mittal’s focus is on boosting Average Revenue Per User, alongside his reappointment as Chairman effective from October 2026.
Congress leader Pawan Khera appeared before Assam Police Crime Branch for a second consecutive day, cooperating with the investigation. The action follows cases filed by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife. Khera faces charges including defamation and forgery. Earlier, the Supreme Court had granted him anticipatory bail, making the latest appearances closely watched.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu ordered a reduction in his convoy size, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to conserve fuel and energy. In a separate move, he said salaries of Ministers will be cut by 30% and MLAs by 20%. The decision comes amid heightened regional uncertainty linked to the West Asia conflict.
The National Investigation Agency has filed a 7,500-page chargesheet in the Red Fort car bomb explosion case, where 11 people were killed in last year’s high-intensity blast. The NIA names 10 accused tied to Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind, described as an Al-Qaida offshoot, and says the probe uncovered a major jihad conspiracy involving radicalised medical professionals.
MTAR Technologies shares jumped 18% in two days to a record high after the company bagged a Rs 2,279 crore international order. It also upgraded FY27 revenue growth guidance to over 80%, citing expansion momentum across clean energy, nuclear and aerospace. The move follows strong Q4 results and an equally solid full-year performance.
Pakistani film Mera Lyari has crashed at the box office, reportedly selling just 22 tickets in some locations and facing screenings being stopped within a day. The poor turnout sharply contrasts with Aditya Dhar’s Indian spy thriller Dhurandhar, which crossed about ₹1300 crore worldwide. Mera Lyari was pitched as an effort to project a positive image of Lyari town.
Global rice production is forecast to fall for the first time in a decade as declines in India, Myanmar, and the US collide with record consumption and trade. That mix is expected to reduce global stockpiles just as costs rise, with higher fertilizer and energy bills and possible monsoon disruptions in India adding further risk to supplies.
Bitcoin slipped to around the $79,600 level as the wider crypto market weakened. Inflation concerns and cautious sentiment left buyers on the sidelines, while profit-booking and fading momentum pressured both majors and altcoins. Traders are now focused on upcoming US macroeconomic releases and geopolitical cues, with BTC dominance remaining elevated as markets wait for direction.
Embassy East Business Park will retain possession of 78 acres in Bengaluru’s Kadugodi Industrial Area after the Karnataka High Court overturned a Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board order seeking land resumption. The decision clears the way for Embassy Developments to move forward with its planned business park, overturning the regulator’s attempt to reclaim the land.
Gold and silver prices are falling today as traders react to U.S. inflation and shifting Federal Reserve expectations. Rising U.S. producer prices have renewed bets on higher interest rates, weighing on precious metals. Analysts warn prices could stay under pressure short term, but long-term demand may remain supported by global risks and continued investor interest.
Prateek Yadav, stepbrother of Akhilesh Yadav, died after collapsing at home while drinking water. Reports say he woke around 4 am, and after a glass slipped from his hand, he fell suddenly. Doctors later declared him brought dead, with initial findings pointing to massive pulmonary thromboembolism, raising urgent questions about the suddenness of the death.
EaseMyTrip’s board has approved a rights issue to raise up to ₹500 crore, but the company did not reveal which shareholders are eligible or the exact purpose of the funds. The move follows a weak financial run, including a 90% year-on-year profit drop in Q3 FY26, promoter stake pledges, and leadership changes that have pushed investors to sell.
Protests have flared across Havana as worsening electricity shortages trigger deeper anger among residents. Demonstrations erupted amid repeated, prolonged power cuts, with many protesters blaming the strain of the US blockade. The unrest underscores how energy stress is amplifying broader frustrations in Cuba, raising fears of further instability as outages continue.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah presented the President’s Colour Award to the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Ghaziabad, praising its nationwide disaster response role. The recognition also highlights support from state agencies and community partners including SDRFs, Panchayats, NCC, NSS and “Aapada Mitras”. Shah also laid foundation stones for six new NDRF centres, boosting capacity.
NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar has claimed that Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare and 22 NCP MLAs will contest upcoming elections on BJP tickets. He also raised allegations of drug sales and extortion in Baramati, turning the spotlight on internal party tensions. An NCP spokesperson rejected the charge, saying the party remains united under Sunetra Pawar.
Former Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin said the DMK-led alliance has not weakened after the elections, pointing to 1.54 crore votes as evidence of public trust. He said allies have pledged to continue pushing the DMK’s vision, focusing on welfare and safeguarding the state’s rights. Stalin thanked partners for their steadfast support and coordination.
West Bengal Chief Minister announced that the national song Vande Mataram will be sung in all state schools starting Monday. An official notification will be issued from Nabanna. The development coincides with other announcements, including the nomination of Rathindranath Bose as Assembly Speaker and plans to personally interact with top Higher Secondary scorers.
MCX shares climbed to a new high as investors cheered results and the tailwind from rising gold and silver prices. The exchange posted a fourfold jump in net profit and a threefold rise in revenue, reinforcing confidence even as the broader market stayed weak. Still, some analysts hold back, keeping a cautious view on what happens next.
India’s industrial and warehousing market is rapidly concentrating into 13 logistics and manufacturing corridors, which are expected to account for 70–80% of Grade A activity. Since 2021, these clusters have driven 75% of both demand and supply, powered by infrastructure buildout and manufacturing expansion. With momentum intact, rentals are set to keep rising.
A viral video from Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh shows a man being swept into the air during an intense storm after a tin shed is uprooted by extreme winds. The incident reportedly left him severely injured, including fractures in both arms and legs, and he is currently receiving treatment in hospital. Authorities and locals are urging caution during severe weather.
West Bengal’s Education Department has ordered that ‘Vande Mataram’ be sung compulsorily in morning assemblies across all schools, effective immediately. The directive requires the song to be performed after the National Anthem, and it replaces the earlier practice of singing Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Banglar Mati Banglar Jol.’ The move marks a sharp change in how schools open their day.
Kerala Congress (J) chairman P J Joseph says his party will seek two ministerial berths in the next UDF government. Speaking at a UDF meeting in Thiruvananthapuram on government formation, he noted the UDF’s election majority and argued the chief minister should be chosen from elected MLAs, setting terms for coalition talks.
India’s hotel business is being reshaped by a “lifestyle-led” model as Marriott, Accor and Hyatt redesign properties around Gen Z and millennials. Instead of oversized rooms, hotels are shrinking space, upgrading vibrant lobbies and social zones, and betting on community-driven stays. The strategy lowers development costs while lifting revenue through longer, more frequent hangouts and brand experiences.
A new controversy has erupted in Tamil Nadu after TVK MLA S Mustafa said his party entered politics to “eradicate Sanatan Dharma,” citing Periyar and Ambedkar. The remarks follow Udhayanidhi Stalin’s earlier comments that triggered a nationwide backlash, with critics accusing the TVK of targeting Hindu beliefs for political advantage. The dispute is intensifying across parties and public platforms.
Tamil Nadu is set to overhaul TASMAC liquor rules, reinforcing a 21-year legal drinking age statewide and ordering ID checks at sales counters. The government has shut 717 outlets near sensitive locations like temples, schools, colleges, and bus stands. Officials are also considering reducing shop timings from 10 pm to 8 pm, signaling stricter curbs on access.
South Korea is leading Asia’s AI rush as SK Hynix edges toward a $1 trillion market value after Samsung’s milestone. The surge is fueled by accelerating AI demand for memory chips, pushing SK Hynix shares higher and putting the company on the cusp of a rare valuation leap.
After nearly 10 days of suspense and backroom factional warfare, Congress has officially named six-time MLA VD Satheesan as Kerala’s next chief minister. The decision overrides growing speculation around Rahul Gandhi’s ally KC Venugopal amid mounting pressure from party cadre and allies, signaling how internal forces ultimately shaped the leadership outcome.
Air India is facing a potential record $2.12 billion loss as the Iran war and Pakistan’s airspace ban force thousands of flight cuts. In the scramble for seats, Lufthansa Group and Cathay Pacific are expanding capacity, aiming to capitalize on strong Indian travel demand. Their moves could lift foreign carriers’ share to 58.4%, intensifying pressure on Air India’s international network.
India has raised the basic import duty on gold to 15%, up from 6%, as the rupee slid to a record low of 95.85 per dollar. SBI says the hike supports rupee stability and helps contain the current account deficit, while analysts warn of a sharp price shock for India’s domestic jewelry market.
NLC India shares climbed 18% to a fresh record after the PSU reported a 189% year-on-year jump in Q4 net profit to Rs 1,394 crore. Revenue grew 32%, and the board recommended a final dividend. The company also clocked record annual coal production, alongside its highest-ever full-year profit, fueling investor optimism.
June 2026’s US Visa Bulletin brings a blow to many Indian applicants seeking employment-based green cards. EB-1 and EB-2 final action dates have retrogressed amid heavy demand. The State Department also flags the possibility of additional delays or even visa unavailability if annual numerical limits are reached, with effects potentially spilling into EB-5 unreserved as well.
Jammu and Kashmir former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti welcomed RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale’s call for India Pakistan dialogue. She said sustained, open talks are key to durable peace in the region, citing earlier dialogue periods under Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh when militancy and atrocities declined.
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