The rupee fell to a record low of 85.53 against the dollar, driven by panic dollar buying and increased demand from the month-end, leading RBI to intervene by selling dollars. Despite RBI's intervention, higher US Treasury yields, crude oil prices, and foreign fund outflows kept the rupee under pressure.
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Air India expanded its wireless in-flight entertainment service, 'Vista Stream,' to its single-aisle fleet. Passengers can now stream over 1600 hours of content, including movies, documentaries, music, and children's programs, directly to their personal devices on both domestic and international flights. The service also offers a live flight tracking map.
Value Attics Reinsurance has become the first private-sector reinsurer in India after receiving a licence from Irdai. Backed by Fairfax group’s Prem Watsa and Kamlesh Goyal, it aims to leverage international reinsurance expertise. The company will start with a paid-up capital of Rs 200 crore and is set to begin operations shortly.
China’s economy achieved its annual growth target of 5% for 2024, helped by a late-year stimulus and boosted exports before US tariffs. Industrial production surged by 6.2% in December, though domestic demand remained weak with modest retail sales growth and rising unemployment. Further fiscal measures are expected to support the economy amid external challenges.
IndusInd Bank disclosed that an external review quantified the impact of discrepancies in its derivatives portfolio, resulting in a Rs 1,979 crore hit to its net worth as of June 2024. This translates to a 2.27% reduction by December 2024. Following initial reports of derivative losses, the bank's stock experienced significant volatility, although it rallied nearly 7% on Tuesday.
In 2025, HR will be shaped by hybrid work models, mental health focus, DEI advancements, and AI integration. Demand for specialized talent and rising CXO salaries will be notable trends, with green energy and AI-driven sectors leading in compensation. Skill development remains crucial for workforce competitiveness.
Flipkart cofounder Binny Bansal has introduced Opptra, a startup focused on franchise business portfolios for branded consumer goods. Opptra will use AI-driven localisation and e-commerce expertise to expand brands across Asia and globally. The company leverages a global supply chain integrating automation and smart logistics, aiming for swift market penetration through a balance of online and offline channels.
India's Budget 2025 may potentially abolish the old tax regime. The new tax regime, default since 2020-21, offers simplified, lower tax rates with fewer benefits. Experts emphasize allowing deductions for medical premiums under Section 80D and for disabilities under Section 80U, arguing these are necessities. Ensuring equitable tax relief promotes fairness in the tax system.
Union home minister Amit Shah commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi and finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting a comprehensive and visionary Union Budget 2025. Key features of the budget include a significant tax exemption for income up to Rs 12 lakh, aimed at enhancing the financial well-being of the middle class.
High attrition rates in private sector and small finance banks are a significant risk factor, causing operational disruptions and increased recruitment costs. The Reserve Bank of India highlights the importance of strategic measures, including improved onboarding, training, and competitive benefits, to retain talent and ensure stability within the banking sector.
ICICI Bank reported a 15% rise in standalone net profit to Rs 11,792 crore for Q3 of FY2024, compared to Rs 10,272 crore in the same period last year. Total income rose to Rs 48,368 crore, with improved asset quality as gross NPAs dropped to 1.96%.