July 28, 2025
IT firm to cut 12,000 jobs amid shift to AI and tech focus, with support for affected employees
The IT Ministry is monitoring the decision of a major IT services firm to lay off over 12,000 employees, approximately two percent of its global workforce, primarily affecting middle and senior-level staff. The firm attributes the layoffs to a strategic shift towards becoming a "future-ready organisation," focusing on technology investment, AI deployment, market expansion, and workforce realignment. Despite recent workforce growth, the company plans to release employees whose redeployment is not feasible, while providing benefits, outplacement, counseling, and support. The ministry is engaging with the company to understand the underlying causes and emphasizes employment growth through initiatives like Employment Linked Incentive, alongside skilling and reskilling efforts.
July 28, 2025
Domestic Currency Drops 15 Paise to 86.67 Amid Dollar Demand and Trade Talk Uncertainty
The domestic currency depreciated against the US dollar, closing 15 paise lower at 86.67 amid sustained month-end dollar demand from importers and cautious investor sentiment ahead of pending trade negotiations between two major economies set for August 1. The decline was influenced by a strengthening dollar following a recent trade deal between the EU and the US, foreign fund sell-offs in the domestic market, and negative trends in local equity indices. Market participants remain wary of upcoming monetary policy decisions by the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan. The foreign exchange reserves decreased by over one billion USD during the week ending July 18, continuing a recent downward trend. Uncertainty around the trade talks poses risks to exporters and may maintain pressure on the currency until a resolution is reached.
July 28, 2025
Markets slide nearly 1% amid private bank profit drop and trade deal uncertainty, with mixed global market results
Stock markets experienced a decline for the third consecutive day, with major indices falling nearly 1 percent due to significant selling pressure on a leading private bank and uncertainty surrounding an international trade agreement. The bank reported a substantial drop in quarterly net profit compared to the previous year, citing challenges in its retail commercial vehicle segment linked to adverse economic conditions. Other prominent companies also saw declines, while a few firms recorded gains. Foreign institutional investors sold equities worth a considerable amount recently. Regional markets showed mixed results, with some Asian indices closing lower and others higher, while European and US markets ended positively. Additionally, global oil prices increased modestly during this period.
July 28, 2025
Regional Bank Reports Record Profit with Growth in Agri Loans and New Term Loan Scheme
A regional bank reported a record quarterly profit driven by increased lending in agriculture and retail sectors. The bank introduced a new all-purpose term loan for agriculture, resulting in significant growth surpassing major competitors. It set a target to exceed Rs 5,000 crore in agricultural loans for the fiscal year. Retail loan business outside its primary region also saw substantial growth, particularly in home and auto loans, while the bank reduced exposure to the corporate sector due to competitive pressures. The bank allocated Rs 87 crore towards investment in a regional rural bank following a merger, which slightly impacted net profit. Internal process improvements, including centralized processing for various loan segments, were implemented to support sustained business growth.
July 28, 2025
Engineering Firm Invests Rs 500 Crore to Launch Copper-Clad Laminate Plant, Creating 350 Jobs and Cutting Imports
An engineering and manufacturing company has launched a new business division focused on producing high-performance base materials for printed circuit boards. The company is investing approximately Rs 500 crore to establish a copper-clad laminate manufacturing facility in Karnataka, expected to generate around 350 jobs. This facility aims to produce over 6 million sheets of copper-clad laminates and related materials, addressing the current reliance on imports for these products. The initiative is supported by the state government and central ministry, intending to enhance supply chain resilience and boost competitiveness in sectors including telecommunications, automotive electronics, consumer devices, industrial systems, and AI infrastructure.
July 28, 2025
Opposition Blames Tax Bias and GST Flaws for Falling Investment and Factory Closures
An opposition party criticized the government for a significant decline in net foreign direct investment and a lack of domestic investor confidence, attributing these issues to alleged discriminatory tax policies and favoritism toward select business groups. The party highlighted that private sector investment remains sluggish despite previous corporate tax cuts and pointed to stagnant wages and a flawed goods and services tax system as factors hindering market growth. Additionally, it accused the government of failing to protect domestic industries from cheap imports, particularly from a neighboring country, resulting in factory closures and reduced investment opportunities. The party called on the government to support incomes, reform tax policies, overhaul the GST framework, and implement measures to shield local industries from unfair foreign competition.
July 28, 2025
EU-US agree on 15% tariffs for most EU exports to US to avoid higher duties and support investment fund
The European Union and the United States reached a trade agreement that sets tariffs on most EU exports to the US at 15 percent, up from a previous 1 percent, avoiding higher import duties that could have disrupted global economies. The deal, announced following a meeting between US and EU leaders, remains under negotiation with no formal written agreement yet. The arrangement aims to facilitate a significant investment fund directed by the US administration. Concurrently, trade talks between the US and China continue amid mixed market reactions in Asia. The agreement follows recent US trade deals with other countries and precedes an upcoming deadline for further negotiations. The Federal Reserve is also expected to consider interest rate decisions in light of these developments and their potential economic impact.
July 28, 2025
Company Diversifies Into Beverage Manufacturing Under New MoU and Boosts Leadership with Key Appointments
A company specializing in agricultural exports entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with a brand owner to manufacture beverages under the latter's brand, marking a diversification beyond its traditional business. The agreement aims to expand the company's presence in the organized retail sector and capitalize on growing demand for packaged FMCG products. The company recently increased its authorized share capital and issued convertible warrants on a preferential basis to its newly appointed Managing Director, who was elevated from Executive Director. Additionally, the company appointed a new Chief Financial Officer and a Company Secretary and Compliance Officer. Financial results for the fiscal year showed significant revenue and profit growth, reflecting operational efficiency. The company issued a disclaimer noting that forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and disclaims responsibility for actions taken based on such statements.
July 28, 2025
Residence Certificate Issued to Stray Dog Exposes Flaws in Verification Under Bihar RTPS Act Section Rules
A residence certificate was erroneously issued to a stray dog in a rural area during an electoral roll revision, prompting the local administration to cancel the certificate and lodge a police complaint against the applicant and the officials involved. The incident revealed flaws in the verification process under the Bihar Right To Public Service Act, which allows online applications for such certificates. The administration ordered a detailed investigation by the sub-divisional officer and announced disciplinary action against the responsible officials. The case has sparked public criticism regarding document verification standards in electoral processes.
July 28, 2025
20th Annual Scholastic Aptitude Test Offers Scholarships Over 50 Crore for Classes 5-11 Science Stream
An educational institution announced the launch of its 20th annual scholastic aptitude test, offering scholarships exceeding 50 crore and cash prizes over 1 crore. The exam, open to students from classes 5 to 11 in the science stream, aims to evaluate knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills nationwide. It will be conducted in both online and offline formats across more than 300 cities, with offline exams scheduled for early and mid-October and online exams later in the month. The institution, operating over 900 educational centers across multiple states, emphasizes equal opportunity and academic excellence, providing scholarships up to 100% to deserving students. The test is designed to foster analytical abilities and support career-oriented education in various professional streams.
July 28, 2025
Opposition Protests Over Bihar Revision Exercise Cause Multiple Rajya Sabha Adjournments, Session Ends Early
The Rajya Sabha was adjourned for the day following continuous protests by Opposition members over the Special Intensive Revision exercise in Bihar. The House experienced multiple adjournments before and after lunch due to Opposition MPs demanding a debate on the issue and raising slogans. Despite attempts by the Chair to proceed with the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill 2025, the protests persisted, including MPs entering the Well of the House. The Chair ultimately adjourned the session amid the disruption.
July 28, 2025
Intergovernmental Education Event Boosts ASEAN Cooperation in Culture, Innovation, and Regional Development
An intergovernmental education cooperation event between a major Asian country and ASEAN was held, focusing on enhancing educational and cultural exchanges and fostering regional development. The event included numerous activities and anticipated the signing of multiple agreements, establishment of joint institutions, and creation of internship and training bases. It serves as a platform to strengthen people-to-people ties, promote mutual understanding, and support cooperation across education, culture, tourism, innovation, and trade. The initiative aims to expand cooperation areas, adopt innovative models, and contribute to building a closer regional community with shared interests and future goals.
July 28, 2025
Hospitality Institute and Hotel Group Partner for Joint Management Trainee Training and Certification Program
A hospitality education institute and a hotel group entered into a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a collaborative program to train and certify management trainees in hotel administration. The agreement provides for structured academic and practical training, including internships, faculty exchanges, and advanced certification jointly awarded by both parties. The program aims to enhance real-time industry exposure and career placement opportunities for students across multiple locations. The partnership also includes faculty development initiatives and the use of affiliated hotels for on-the-job training. This collaboration is intended to integrate academic rigor with operational expertise to develop skilled professionals for the hospitality industry.
July 28, 2025
Regulatory Changes Boost Transparency and Investor Confidence in Retirement Mutual Funds
Regulatory enhancements in transparency and investor protection have significantly increased investor confidence in mutual funds as retirement investment options. Over the past five years, assets under management in retirement mutual funds grew by over 226%, reaching approximately Rs 31,973 crore by mid-2025. The number of investor accounts also rose by more than 18%, reflecting heightened awareness of financial planning and retirement corpus building. These retirement funds typically invest in a mix of debt and equity to balance wealth growth and income stability. Positive market outlooks have further driven inflows into equity mutual funds, making them attractive for long-term retirement planning.