Rising global cocoa prices have led to a surge in chocolate costs this Valentine's Day, with chocolate makers like Amul and Smoor Chocolates increasing prices. Companies like Mondelez, Hershey's, and Nestle are also dealing with unprecedented cocoa cost inflation and may implement further price hikes. Consumers already facing inflation now have to spend more on chocolates.
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India achieved a record high renewable energy capacity addition of around 30 GW in 2024, a significant increase from 13.75 GW in 2023. This growth is crucial for meeting the ambitious target of 500 GW by 2030, with an average requirement of 50 GW per year.
The government has decided to convert Rs 36,950 crore of Vodafone Idea's spectrum dues into equity, making it the largest shareholder with almost 49% stake. Promoters' holding will fall to 26%, while the move aims to free cash flow for the company to invest in 5G rollout and improve services.
BSE market capitalisation fell below Rs 400 lakh crore due to foreign fund outflows and disappointing corporate earnings. Major losers included IndusInd Bank and ITC, while NTPC and Tech Mahindra gained. The small-cap index dropped 1.71 per cent. Sector-wise, utilities and IT gained, whereas industrials and auto sectors suffered losses. Mixed performances were seen across the market.
The Reserve Bank of India has implemented new rules to facilitate the use of the rupee in international trade and investment. These regulations allow overseas branches of authorised banks to open rupee accounts for non-residents, simplifying cross-border transactions. This initiative aims to mitigate exchange rate risks, ease foreign exchange pressure, and enhance India's current account balance.
Major US benchmarks experienced a continuous five-day selloff, resulting in over a trillion dollars loss in share prices. The Nasdaq 100 and S&P 500 indices faced declines, with significant drops in Tesla stock. Concerns over economic factors and market volatility were compounded by deadly attacks and geopolitical tensions, impacting investor sentiment.
Chinese Christmas decoration makers are facing a sharp decline in US orders after Donald Trump hiked tariffs on Chinese goods by 104%. Factories in Jinhua report stalled or cancelled shipments, with fears of job losses and price hikes in the US. Industry insiders warn American consumers may face shortages and higher costs this festive season.
Coffee Day Enterprises Ltd (CDEL) faces resumed insolvency proceedings as the NCLAT did not issue its order by the Supreme Court’s deadline. The insolvency process, initially started due to Rs 228.45 crore default claim, was previously stayed pending appeal.
Employees in India can expect a 9.4% salary increase in 2025, driven by economic growth and high demand for skilled talent. The automotive sector leads with a projected 10% rise, while manufacturing and engineering follow closely. Voluntary attrition is anticipated to stabilize at 11.9%, and 37% of organizations plan workforce expansion to meet demand.
In the December MPC meeting, four members opposed policy easing, making a February rate cut uncertain. Outgoing Governor Das and Deputy Governor Patra prioritized controlling inflation over growth, citing concerns about core inflation and second-order effects. Two external members favored rate cuts to address the GDP growth decline, arguing monetary policy's limitations on supply-side inflation.
Gold prices, after surging over 30% in 2024, are projected to moderate in 2025. Factors like economic growth, inflation, potential trade wars under Trump's second term, and interest rate uncertainty could dampen investor and consumer demand. While central bank buying and geopolitical tensions fueled the 2024 rally, a stronger dollar post-election has stalled gains.