Adani Wilmar (AWL) is acquiring GD Foods, maker of the Tops brand, to strengthen its presence in the kitchen essentials segment. AWL will acquire 80% shares for Rs 603 crore, with the remaining 20% bought over three years. This move expands AWL’s product range beyond staples to sauces, pickles, and more. Funded through internal accruals and IPO proceeds, the acquisition aligns with the company’s pan-India growth strategy.
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The Indian government has lifted the export ban on broken rice, imposed in September 2022, to boost shipments and due to rising inventories. This follows the removal of the minimum export price and previous bans on non-basmati white rice amid sufficient domestic stocks and stable retail prices.
After a significant downturn, smallcap stocks are making a comeback, rising by 2% recently. Analysts remain cautious, debating if it's a genuine recovery or a temporary rise. Smallcap companies struggled with Q3 earnings, and foreign institutional investors’ outflows further impacted the market. Despite challenges, some see a long-term opportunity in strong management companies. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining the market's direction.
InterGlobe Air Transport Limited has been named the exclusive General Sales Agent for Oman Air in India. This partnership will enhance Oman Air's presence in the Indian market, providing extensive sales, service support, and superior travel experiences. InterGlobe already represents multiple international airlines, ensuring seamless connections and exceptional service for passengers traveling between India and Oman.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories has refuted media reports alleging a 25% reduction in workforce costs. The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical giant dismissed claims of layoffs targeting high-earning employees and voluntary retirement offers for older staff, particularly in R&D.
US stock markets fell after President Trump announced higher tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. The Dow Jones dropped 625 points. Companies like Delta and Southwest Airlines revised their revenue forecasts due to uncertainty. Tesla's stock rose as Trump expressed support for the company. Major tech stocks showed stability despite the market turmoil.
Economist Thomas Piketty addressed India's extreme inequality, second only to South Africa. He advocated for a 2% wealth tax on the ultra-rich to fund public services and broaden the tax base, citing China's success with increased tax revenue and reduced inequality. He emphasized India's potential for faster growth and poverty reduction with less inequality.
India is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, with 65% of Indians using AI, compared to the global average of 31%. Millennials, particularly those aged 25-44, are leading this trend. AI is primarily used for translations, answering questions, workplace efficiency, and school assistance. However, concerns about deepfakes, scams, and online abuse persist, especially for children under 18.
China has emerged as a significant player in AI foundation models with DeepSeek, creating powerful AI models at lower costs than the West. This has spurred a debate in India about whether to develop indigenous large language models or focus on smaller, application-specific ones. Experts emphasize the need for investment in research, infrastructure, and innovation to enhance India's AI capabilities.
Kia India MD Gwanggu Lee stated that car sales are expected to grow moderately by 3-4% next year due to increased prices. He suggested the government reduce taxes to stimulate demand. Kia launched the Syros mini offroader, available in petrol, diesel, and eventually electric versions, to compete in the entry SUV market.
One97 Communications, the parent company of Paytm, reported a consolidated loss of Rs 208.5 crore for the December 2024 quarter, an improvement from last year's Rs 221.7 crore loss. Revenue from operations declined by 35.8 per cent year-on-year to Rs 1,827.8 crore. Paytm is exploring international expansion with new subsidiaries in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore.