Major bank beats earnings expectations with USD 4.96 per share despite year-over-year profit decline
A major bank reported second-quarter profit of USD 14.2 billion, beating analyst expectations with earnings of USD 4.96 per share versus forecasted USD 4.48, though down from prior year's USD 6.12. The bank's markets division performed strongly with 15% revenue growth to USD 8.9 billion. Total managed revenue reached USD 45.7 billion, exceeding expectations but below last year's USD 51 billion. The CEO highlighted economic resilience while warning of risks including tariffs, trade uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and fiscal deficits. Net interest income rose 2% to USD 23.3 billion amid expectations of potential Federal Reserve rate cuts.

Chief Minister's UAE Visit Attracts Investment Through Global Dialogue 2025 Business Forum
A state chief minister conducted a three-day visit to the UAE as part of the Global Dialogue 2025 initiative to attract investments and explore business opportunities. The official participated in a business investment forum, meeting with UAE government ministers, business leaders from major companies, and textile merchants. Discussions focused on fostering investment, enhancing trade cooperation, and strengthening bilateral ties. The visit included meetings with chambers of commerce officials and interactions with local Indian business communities. The chief minister also visited Dubai Textile City to understand market opportunities and attended religious celebrations at a temple in Abu Dhabi.

Power utility's 300 MW wind-solar hybrid tariff at Rs 3.81/kWh rejected for violating Section 63 competitive bidding guidelines
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission rejected a power utility's petition for approval of a 300 MW wind-solar hybrid power tariff at Rs 3.81 per kWh, citing non-compliance with competitive bidding guidelines under Section 63 of the Electricity Act. The utility failed to obtain prior approval for bidding deviations from the central government, instead seeking approval from the state government despite knowing the interstate transmission requirements. The Commission noted transparency concerns as the winning bidder was the utility's wholly-owned subsidiary, and rejected justifications for the higher tariff based on capacity utilization factors and project timelines. The utility was advised to conduct re-bidding in strict accordance with statutory guidelines.

Loyalty company partners with travel group to integrate hotel rewards into global points transfer network
A loyalty ecosystem company partnered with a travel group to integrate a hotel rewards program into its global points transfer network. The collaboration allows financial institutions to enable customers to convert bank loyalty points into hotel reward points, providing access to exclusive stays and benefits at over 650 independent hotels worldwide. The partnership aims to enhance travel reward offerings for discerning customers seeking personalized experiences while expanding the reach of the hotel loyalty program globally through the financial partner network.

Opposition MPs end 24-hour protest over power cuts affecting 5,000 migrant workers in settlement
Opposition party MPs concluded a 24-hour protest at an informal settlement in Delhi housing approximately 5,000 migrant workers from West Bengal. The protesters highlighted deteriorating living conditions after electricity was disconnected following a court order in an encroachment case. Residents, primarily daily wage earners and domestic workers, face water shortages, flooding, and unsanitary conditions. Opposition leaders accused the ruling party of discriminating against Bengali-speaking residents, claiming they are being wrongly targeted as foreign nationals despite possessing valid Indian documentation. The settlement lacks basic infrastructure, with residents reporting inability to sleep, cook, or study without electricity.

Tata Group luxury jewelry brand launches first international collaboration with British designer featuring 19-piece limited collection
A luxury jewelry brand from the Tata Group has launched its first international collaboration with a British designer, creating a limited-edition capsule collection. The 19-piece collection features enamel work inspired by Lhasa architecture, incorporating uncut diamonds and 18k gold in designs including rings, earrings, chains, and bangles. The collaboration, five years in development, combines traditional Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design elements. The collection reinterprets classic Indian jewelry forms through an architectural lens, featuring sage green, rose, and dew color palettes with cherry blossom and chevron patterns. The pieces will be available by private appointment at select boutiques.

Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision faces criticism over citizenship verification concerns and documentation requirements
A political leader criticized the Election Commission's Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls in a state, arguing it should not become a citizenship verification exercise disguised as voter list revision. The leader claimed the three-month timeline is insufficient and demanded transparency, suggesting 13 months or three years would be appropriate. He argued that citizenship verification falls under the Home Ministry's jurisdiction, not the Election Commission's. The leader expressed concern about stringent documentation requirements, noting many citizens lack birth certificates. He also questioned accountability regarding reports of foreign nationals found during house-to-house visits, suggesting any elections won with such votes should be nullified. The Supreme Court recently permitted the revision exercise to continue while allowing multiple government documents as valid proof.

Chief Minister Completes UAE Visit Under Global Dialogue 2025 Initiative to Attract Investment Opportunities
A state chief minister concluded a three-day official visit to the UAE as part of the 'Global Dialogue 2025' initiative to attract investment opportunities. The visit included participation in a business investment forum and meetings with UAE officials, including the Minister of State for Foreign Trade, to discuss trade cooperation and investment partnerships. The chief minister held discussions with major companies including DP World, Etisalat, Lulu Group, and others, while also meeting with chambers of commerce representatives and visiting Dubai Textile City to explore market opportunities. The visit aimed to introduce business possibilities in the state to UAE investors and entrepreneurs.

India's exports hit $210.31 billion in April-June 2025, up 5.94% with electronics surging 46.93%
The country's cumulative exports of merchandise and services during April-June 2025 reached $210.31 billion, showing 5.94% growth compared to $198.52 billion in the same period of 2024. Merchandise exports grew 1.92% to $112.17 billion, while non-petroleum exports increased 5.97% to $94.77 billion. Key growth drivers included electronic goods (46.93% increase), drugs and pharmaceuticals (5.95%), engineering goods (1.35%), marine products (13.33%), and meat, dairy and poultry products (19.70%). Services exports grew 10.93% to $98.13 billion. Total imports increased 4.38% to $230.62 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $20.31 billion.

Private university partners with job platform and investment firm to launch India's first university-led startup launchpad for innovators under 30
A private university collaborated with a job platform and investment firm to launch India's first university-led startup launchpad targeting innovators under 30. The initiative offers $1 million in funding, expert guidance, and incubation support. Registration is open until mid-August through an online portal. The program aims to nurture entrepreneurship among young founders through pitch competitions, investor presentations, and mentorship. Officials highlighted India's growing startup ecosystem and the role of universities in fostering innovation, citing statistics about startup growth and job creation in the country.

Global electric vehicle manufacturer launches mid-sized electric SUV in India with Rs 59.89 lakh starting price
Global electric vehicle manufacturer entered India by launching its mid-sized electric SUV through imports from its Shanghai facility. The vehicle is offered in two variants priced at Rs 59.89 lakh and Rs 67.89 lakh, with deliveries starting in third and fourth quarters of 2025. The company opened its first experience center in Mumbai and plans charging stations in Mumbai and Delhi. The entry follows government guidelines allowing reduced import duties for electric vehicles, though the manufacturer previously sought tariff concessions before establishing local operations.

Diamond jewelry brand launches seventh showroom in Erode targeting modern urban customers with lightweight designs
A contemporary diamond and gold jewelry brand opened its seventh showroom in India on RKV Road, Erode, Tamil Nadu. The new location targets urban clientele with elegant, lightweight natural diamond and gold jewelry designed for modern lifestyles. A company director expressed enthusiasm about entering the vibrant, style-conscious market. The grand opening attracted jewelry enthusiasts and regional customers eager to explore curated collections ranging from classic to contemporary designs. The brand, part of an 85-year legacy jewelry house, now operates showrooms across multiple Indian cities including Bangalore, Chennai, Kochi, Thrissur, Tirupur, and Hyderabad, with online availability also offered.

Major automotive dealer opens new 9,500 sq ft showroom featuring electric vehicles amid 25% market growth
A major automotive dealer group inaugurated a new vehicle dealership on Kanakapura Road in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The 9,500 sq. ft. facility displays passenger vehicles including electric models and features modern design elements. The dealer group operates 137 touchpoints across six states and sold over 37,000 vehicles in FY 2025. In Karnataka specifically, they operate 12 locations comprising 8 showrooms and 4 service workshops, selling over 6,500 vehicles. The state's automotive market grew 25% with approximately 49.16 lakh cars registered in 2024-25 compared to 39.37 lakh in 2020-21.

Health brand partners with electronics manufacturer for robotic vacuum cleaner assembly and supply
A leading health and hygiene brand has entered into a strategic partnership with an electronic manufacturing services company to enhance its vacuum cleaner manufacturing capabilities. The collaboration focuses on assembly and supply of robotic vacuum cleaners, leveraging the manufacturing partner's ISO-certified facilities and expertise. The partnership aims to strengthen the Make in India initiative while expanding presence in the robotic vacuum cleaner market. The manufacturing partner, known for producing consumer electronics, home appliances, and mobile phones, will utilize its advanced manufacturing capabilities to produce high-quality robotic vacuum cleaners meeting rigorous durability and innovation standards for Indian consumers.

Smart home appliance company launches offline retail partnership across 20+ Indian cities after online success
A global smart home appliance company has expanded its offline retail presence in India through a partnership with an electronics retailer, marking its entry into physical stores after online success. The company's products, including robotic vacuums, cordless vacuums, and grooming devices, are now available across stores in over 20 cities. The partnership includes dedicated product zones for hands-on customer experience, introductory offers with up to 10% additional discounts on select credit cards, and comprehensive after-sales support including warranties and installation services. This strategic move combines online momentum with offline accessibility to build brand trust and accelerate adoption in the Indian smart home appliance market.

India's exports flat at USD 35.14 billion in June amid global uncertainties, trade deficit narrows to four-month low
India's exports remained flat at USD 35.14 billion in June due to global economic uncertainties, while the trade deficit narrowed to a four-month low of USD 18.78 billion. Imports declined 3.71 percent to USD 53.92 billion, primarily due to reduced crude oil and gold shipments. Key export sectors including petroleum, fabrics, gems and jewelry showed negative growth, while electronics surged 46.93 percent. During April-June, exports increased 1.92 percent to USD 112.17 billion, though the merchandise trade deficit widened to USD 67.26 billion compared to the previous year's same quarter.

Indian VFX studio raises 59.99 crore through QIP at 256 per share with 4.78% discount
A major Indian VFX studio successfully raised 59.99 crore through a Qualified Institutions Placement, issuing equity shares at 256 per share with a 4.78% discount to floor price. The fundraising attracted significant institutional investors, with allocations ranging from 5.84% to 11.66%. The company, which has completed over 500 projects and employs 650+ artists, plans to use proceeds for global expansion, talent acquisition, and infrastructure development. The studio recently acquired an Oscar-winning American VFX company and reported 104.37 crore total income with 20.20 crore net profit in FY25.

Major US electric vehicle manufacturer opens first Indian showroom in metropolitan city
A major US electric vehicle manufacturer opened its first showroom in a metropolitan city, marking its entry into the Indian market. The state's chief minister welcomed the company and encouraged it to establish research, development, and manufacturing facilities locally. The official highlighted the state's supportive policies for electric vehicle infrastructure and manufacturing incentives. Industry sources indicate the company has imported initial vehicle units from its overseas facility. A political leader noted the showroom opening could have occurred earlier if import duty issues had been resolved sooner. The state industries minister viewed the development as validation of the government's industrial promotion policies.

UK Treasury plans major financial deregulation to boost growth amid economic contraction
The UK Treasury chief announced plans to slash financial services regulations to stimulate economic growth after the economy contracted for two consecutive months. The reforms include paring back post-2008 financial crisis regulations, modifying bank ring-fencing rules, and reviewing capital requirements for banks. New Bank of England guidance will allow mortgage lenders to loan more than 4.5 times a buyer's income. The government has faced challenges with costly policy reversals, including ending winter heating subsidies for retirees and scrapping planned welfare cuts, reducing Treasury income by billions and potentially necessitating tax increases.