India and the US are actively engaged in discussions to finalize an initial tranche of a bilateral trade agreement (BTA). American officials have arrived in Delhi for negotiations aimed at enhancing market access and supply chain resilience. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed confidence in achieving positive outcomes.
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The rupee weakened by 7 paise to close at 85.55 against the US dollar, influenced by volatile equity markets and rising crude oil prices. Investors were cautious ahead of GDP data release, while the dollar strengthened after a US court ruling on tariffs. Despite FII selling, India's growth outlook remains robust, as highlighted by the RBI.
TotalEnergies will back Adani Green's expansion, despite previous reservations, as announced by CEO Patrick Pouyanne after meeting with Minister Piyush Goyal. TotalEnergies has already invested $5 billion in India and aims to expand its energy business, particularly through US exports.
Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that embracing rapid technological advancements can significantly boost economic productivity, a primary goal for policymakers. Speaking at the Institute of Economic Growth, she highlighted the increased focus on capital expenditure post-Covid, with states recognizing its growth-enhancing multiplier effect.
Suresh Narayanan, retiring CMD of Nestle India, reflected on the 2015 Maggi crisis as a major career challenge. He successfully revitalized Maggi after a nationwide ban due to safety concerns. Under his leadership, Nestle India saw significant growth, expanding its product portfolio and increasing capital expenditure, demonstrating a commitment to manufacturing in India.
Hyundai Motor Company fully exited Ola Electric Mobility, selling its 2.47% stake for Rs 552 crore. Kia Corporation also divested a 0.62% stake for Rs 137.35 crore. Citigroup Global Markets Mauritius acquired a 1.95% stake for Rs 435.47 crore, leading to a fall in Ola Electric's stock price amidst reported net losses.
A recent report indicates that China is emerging as a significant force in the global AI landscape, particularly in non-reasoning models, with DeepSeek V3 0324 leading the way. While the US still dominates in reasoning models, advancements in multimodal AI and cost reductions are accelerating innovation and expanding access to high-performance AI worldwide, intensifying competition among key players.
Airbus reports IndiGo and Air India are among its top three global customers with substantial aircraft backlogs. While facing delivery delays, Airbus sees supply chain stability returning, aiming to increase A320 production.
The Indian femtech sector, after a funding peak in 2021, is now seeing strategic consolidation through acquisitions. IVF Access, a fertility chain, recently acquired Proactive For Her, a digital women's health clinic. This acquisition signals a shift towards integrated platforms offering full-stack clinical care, moving beyond standalone apps to address the entire care journey.
The Centre has increased financial thresholds for scientific equipment procurement by research institutions, as per revised General Financial Rules. Vice-chancellors and directors can now directly procure instruments up to Rs 2 lakh, while purchase committees can approve up to Rs 25 lakh. Senior authorities can also approve global tenders up to Rs 200 crore, streamlining processes and fostering innovation.
The Supreme Court has admitted appeals from Byju's promoters and BCCI regarding the edtech firm's insolvency proceedings. These appeals challenge the NCLAT's refusal to allow insolvency withdrawal, citing a pre-CoC settlement of Rs 158 crore. The promoters argue the settlement was reached before the committee of creditors was formed, seeking to halt the CIRP.