The Economic Times

State Bank of India mobilized nearly two billion dollars under a central bank incentive. This amount significantly surpasses other state-owned and private sector banks' efforts. Other lenders like Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank raised smaller sums. Banks are now focusing on attracting overseas currency inflows from the Indian diaspora. This strategy aims to provide greater flexibility for high-net-worth clients.

Private insurers want Irdai to change proposed investment norms for unlisted companies. They suggest linking exposure limits to shareholders' funds instead of surplus. This change could unlock billions for investment in privately held businesses. The proposed framework may expand sector investment capacity significantly. Insurers seek greater flexibility in managing investment portfolios.

As AI technology continues to permeate workplaces, managers have become crucial players in its successful integration. Their role has evolved from merely overseeing tasks to fostering environments of learning and adaptability. Organizations are prioritizing the development of AI-ready teams through ongoing education, with managers guiding their teams in understanding and utilizing new technologies effectively.

QR code invention story: QR codes originated from manufacturing needs in the early 1990s. Existing barcodes struggled to store sufficient information for evolving production. Engineers at DENSO WAVE developed a compact, two-dimensional code for faster scanning. This new code offered greater data capacity and error correction for factory environments.

The Jammu and Kashmir BJP will protest on July 20 against the current government. This protest aims to expose alleged failures in governance and electoral promises. The opposition party criticizes the administration for neglecting key issues. They state the government diverts attention from its own shortcomings. The BJP intends to voice public concerns across Kashmir.

According to Dallas Federal Reserve President Lorie Logan, the labor market is not a contributing factor to current inflation. She highlighted that some Texas businesses are unexpectedly elevating wages. While expressing worry over the risk of a wage-price spiral, Logan noted that it is still too early to ascertain whether these trends will persist, stressing the need for continued evaluation.

The Enforcement Directorate has launched extensive searches in multiple states concerning a terror-funding investigation that reportedly involves an illegal infiltration scheme involving Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals. During the raids, the agency seized digital devices and crucial documents. This money laundering probe traces back to an FIR filed by the Uttar Pradesh ATS, revealing a financial operation that redirected foreign contributions towards illicit actions.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized border infrastructure's vital role in future warfare. Strategic projects will define India's civilization for centuries to come. He praised the Border Roads Organisation's unprecedented speed in challenging terrains. Connectivity improvements are transforming remote villages into vibrant border communities. Modern technology and human resolve are driving this significant national development.

Charles Simonyi, known for Microsoft Word and Excel, avoided property taxes by living on a superyacht. His custom-built vessel, Skat, offered waterfront views and freedom from regulations. The yacht featured a minimalist interior inspired by art galleries and advanced noise reduction engineering. Simonyi later transitioned to space tourism before upgrading to another large yacht. He sold Skat in 2021, continuing his unique lifestyle choices.

The Supreme Court declined to hear contempt petitions regarding demolitions. It observed that each case involves different factual circumstances requiring high court adjudication. The bench transferred all contempt proceedings to the respective high courts for resolution. Senior advocates argued for intervention in cases of egregious violations of court orders. The court clarified its judgment did not offer blanket protection to illegal constructions.

Indian equities ended subdued as geopolitical tensions capped gains despite optimism around Q1 earnings. Analysts expect stock-specific action, with financials, autos and digital firms in focus, while Nifty remains range-bound between key support and resistance amid cautious investor sentiment.

Indian equities ended subdued amid geopolitical concerns, volatile crude prices and weak Asian cues. Analysts recommend Chennai Petroleum and ABB India after strong technical breakouts, supported by rising volumes, bullish price structures and trading above key moving averages, indicating sustained upside potential.

New Reserve Bank of India norms will prevent lenders from reselling acquired assets to defaulting borrowers. These prudential rules apply to banks, small finance banks, and NBFCs starting October 2026. Specified non-financial assets are those obtained when resolving stressed loans from borrowers. Lenders must establish board-approved policies for acquiring and disposing of these assets. These assets will be disclosed separately on balance sheets, not as NPAs.

SBI Funds Management's 9,813 crore IPO was subscribed 42 times, led by 140-fold QIB demand. India's largest mutual fund house attracted bids worth nearly 2.97 lakh crore, while the grey market premium indicated potential double-digit listing gains.

Jio Financial on Thursday reported 155% year-on-year (YoY) growth in its consolidated net profit at Rs 830 crore in the first quarter. The same stood at Rs 325 crore in the same quarter last year.

Despite a flat Sensex close, six BSE 150 MidCap stocksIpca Laboratories, Sona BLW Precision Forgings, BHEL, Gujarat Fluorochemicals, Lupin and Bioconhit fresh 52-week highs, signalling strong buying interest, improving investor confidence and sustained bullish momentum.

Polycab India delivered its strongest-ever first quarter, with revenue rising 39% and net profit increasing 33%, driven by robust wires and cables demand and strong FMEG growth. Management expects infrastructure spending, capacity expansion and distribution growth to sustain long-term momentum.

Indian equities ended subdued on weekly expiry as investors weighed Iran-US tensions, firm crude prices and rupee weakness. Analysts expect Q1 earnings to drive stock-specific action, while Nifty remains in a consolidation phase with key support near 24,000 and resistance around 24,300.

BHEL reported a consolidated Q1 FY27 net profit of 377 crore against a year-ago loss, driven by 40% revenue growth and a sharp recovery in operating margins. Strong power segment performance lifted sentiment, sending the PSU stock over 4% higher.

The Supreme Court is reviewing a plea against Tamil Nadu's electoral roll revision. Several political parties have also approached the apex court challenging this exercise. The Special Intensive Revision aims to update voter lists across several states. This process could potentially disenfranchise voters without due process. The final voter list is scheduled for publication on February 7, 2026.

West Indies vs New Zealand Playing 11: The West Indies and New Zealand series stands tied at one win apiece. Both teams prepare for the decisive third ODI match on Friday. The Providence Stadium in Guyana will host the crucial encounter. The pitch is expected to favor bowlers, offering a challenging contest. Fans can follow the action via live streaming on the FanCode app.

EXIM Bank of India presented a Rs 428 crore dividend cheque to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The bank reported a net profit of Rs 4,273 crore for the financial year 2025-26. Ten percent of this net profit was transferred as a balance to the government of India. Exim Bank recorded thirty-two percent growth in net profit and robust financial indicators.

African Proverb of the Day highlights the meaning of No matter how tall your grandfather is, you have to do your own growing. The saying emphasizes that while family, mentors, and past generations can provide guidance, opportunities, and inspiration, personal growth is ultimately an individual responsibility. It reminds us that success, wisdom, and character cannot be inheritedthey are earned through our own efforts, choices, and perseverance.

The India-UK free trade pact is expected to reduce trade costs significantly. Domestic goods will gain enhanced competitiveness in the British market. Labour-intensive sectors now enter the UK market with zero duty. Experts believe this agreement will achieve a USD 100 billion bilateral trade target. Indian enterprises must now leverage these commitments for tangible outcomes.

Kuwait's military said it intercepted a fresh round of incoming fire from Iran, as tensions in the Gulf continue to escalate following intensified US strikes on the Islamic Republic amid the Strait of Hormuz conflict.

Google founder Larry Page's net worth surpassed $300 billion recently, making him one of the richest men in the world. This milestone occurred after a significant rally in Alphabet's stock shares. Legendary investor Warren Buffett admitted to regretting not investing in Alphabet much earlier. Berkshire Hathaway's initial investment in Alphabet has now grown substantially.

A Hyderabad jewellery shop that sold a Rs 1.16 lakh lucky stone locket energised through Vedic rituals has been ordered to pay over Rs 11 lakh in total relief after a consumer commission found it misled a customer using religious practices as a sales tool, with Rs 10 lakh in punitive damages directed to a legal services authority.

Wipro declared an interim dividend of 2 per share, with July 27 fixed as the record date. The IT major reported modest Q1 FY27 profit and revenue growth, issued cautious quarterly guidance and reiterated its focus on AI-led business transformation.

Tech Mahindra announced a consolidated net profit of Rs 1,465 crore for the first quarter. This represents a substantial 28% increase compared to the previous year's earnings. The company also saw its net profit rise over 8% sequentially from the prior quarter. Revenue from operations experienced an 18% year-on-year jump to Rs 15,712 crore. These results reflect strong financial performance for the IT services major.

Wipro Q1 Results: Wipro reported a modest 1% year-on-year rise in June-quarter net profit to Rs 3,352 crore, while revenue grew 11%. The IT major declared an interim dividend of Rs 2 per share, but maintained a cautious outlook for the September quarter, guiding for flat to slightly negative sequential IT services revenue growth.

Sensex gained a mere 1 point to end at around 77,187, and Nifty 50 dropped around 6 points to close at nearly 24,073 on Thursday. Broader markets slipped into the red, with Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 indices closing up to 0.4% lower.

Sotefin Bharat's Rs 89.76 crore SME IPO opened to a cautious 16% subscription on Day 1, with the GMP suggesting a modest listing premium of around 11.76% over its Rs 187 upper price band.

ITC Hotels reported a thirty-six percent rise in net profit for the first quarter. Consolidated revenue from operations also increased compared to the previous year. The company announced the approved acquisition of GHK Hospitality & Infrastructures Ltd. This strategic move will expand their owned-asset portfolio in Ahmedabad. The hotel business and new branded residences vertical showed strong revenue growth.

Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy reported a 38 percent net profit increase. This growth occurred in the June quarter, supported by reduced expenses. The company's total income saw a decrease during the April-June period. However, Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy achieved its highest-ever unexecuted order value. This strong order book reflects customer confidence and future growth expectations.

Godrej Agrovet has appointed Gaurav Pande as CEO of its dairy subsidiary, Creamline Dairy Products Ltd. Pande will lead Creamline's next phase of growth, focusing on market leadership and business transformation. He brings over twenty-two years of experience across various consumer sectors to the role. Creamline Dairy, owner of the Godrej Jersey brand, operates in southern India. The company aims to expand its diverse portfolio of value-added dairy products.

FIIs increased their holdings in these 13 BSE500 stocks during the June quarter, which have delivered returns of up to 230% in CY26

Veteran investor Vijay Kedia increased his stake in Websol Energy System during Q1FY27, acquiring over 3.4 lakh shares and raising his holding to 47.85 lakh shares (1.1%), valued at nearly Rs 47 crore at the latest market price. The solar stock has surged 1,080% over three years, despite declining 28% in the past year.

Valuation expert Aswath Damodaran argues that country risk is no longer limited to emerging markets as global companies face political, legal and economic shocks across borders. From US sovereign debt concerns to overseas revenue exposure, investors must factor country-specific risks into valuations regardless of where companies are listed.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut stated opposition to the Delimitation Bill. He indicated potential support if amendments are incorporated by the government. Raut also addressed allegations of embezzlement at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He questioned Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding temple donation theft. Concerns were also raised about activist Sonam Wangchuk's deteriorating health.

A major Japanese ice cream maker said Thursday that it is seeing shipment delays following a cyberattack at its logistics partner that has already affected Kentucky Fried Chicken and a large sushi chain. Kura Sushi Inc, a conveyor belt sushi chain with nearly 700 locations in Japan and abroad, said on Wednesday that its outlets in the west were experiencing shipment delays for some products.

Uttar Pradesh police told the Supreme Court that Ajay Mishra and Ashish Mishra were not involved in witness intimidation. The investigation revealed that neither of the Mishras were involved in the alleged offense. The trial in the main Lakhimpur Kheri violence case is expected to conclude soon. Charges were framed against Ashish Mishra and twelve others in December 2023.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval urged enhanced BIMSTEC cooperation to address evolving security challenges. He highlighted the need for decisive actions and mutual benefit among member states. BIMSTEC unites 1.7 billion people and represents significant economic potential for the region. The grouping has strengthened cooperation in fighting terrorism and transnational crime. India views BIMSTEC as central to its regional vision and future growth.

Kolhapur's Sonam Uttam Maskar is preparing for her first Asian Games appearance. She achieved international success in 2024 with multiple silver medals. Her journey began as a hobby and became a career choice. Her father supported her by selling property for equipment.

A Chinese proverb highlights the wisdom of discretion and the danger of closed-mindedness. Careless words can damage relationships and create unnecessary conflicts for individuals. Refusing to learn or consider new ideas leads to poor decisions and missed opportunities. Practicing thoughtful speech and maintaining an open mind fosters growth and understanding. This balance between silence and curiosity remains vital in today's world.

Iran's military command issued strong threats against regional infrastructure as United States airstrikes continue to target the country. Iran said it would destroy all infrastructure if Trump proceeds with his threats. The military spokesperson emphasised the Strait of Hormuz as an invincible red line.

JSW MG Motor India anticipates new energy vehicles will constitute eighty percent of sales this year. This surge follows increased demand for electric vehicles after the West Asia conflict began. The company is launching new electric and plug-in hybrid models on its ADAPT platform. Production capacity is expanding to meet this growing consumer interest and demand. JSW MG Motor India is investing significantly in product development and expansion efforts.

British carmakers are quickly passing on tariff benefits from the India-UK CETA trade agreement. Price reductions for Scotch whisky and gin will take longer to reach consumers. Jaguar Land Rover and McLaren have already announced cuts on UK-built car models. Alcohol remains heavily taxed, impacting the speed of price adjustments for spirits. The full benefits of the trade deal depend on state-level tax policies.