Luxury watch brands are experiencing a surge in demand across metro and tier-2, tier-3 cities in India in 2024, despite a global slowdown, especially in China. Increased affluence and competitive pricing in India are driving growth, with cities like Mangalore and Pune becoming significant markets, prompting global brands to expand their presence.
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The Gauhati High Court has ruled that fruit pulp and juice-based carbonated drinks fall under the lower 12% GST slab instead of the higher 28%. This ruling benefits manufacturers like X’SS Beverage by classifying these drinks based on their essential fruit juice content rather than their carbonation.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announces a $3 billion investment in India's cloud and AI infrastructure, including new data centers. The company aims to train 10 million people with AI skills by 2030, highlighting AI's diffusion in India as exciting and emphasizing the need for innovative infrastructure.
Aditya Birla Group's UltraTech Cement is set to acquire Wonder Cement's white cement business for Rs 235 crore. This acquisition will enhance UltraTech's production capacity, leveraging Wonder Cement's strategically located plant and booming turnover in the competitive putty manufacturing market.
Indian banks' gross NPAs stood at a 12-year low of 2.6% in Sept 2024, but RBI's stress test warns it could rise to 3% by March 2026. Concerns include increasing write-offs by private banks and higher fresh NPAs in retail loans. The stress test also highlighted risks in microfinance and consumer credit segments, along with global tokenisation threats.
Grant Lee's AI startup Gamma is thriving with just 28 employees, achieving significant revenue and profitability. Many AI-driven startups are leveraging technology to maximize efficiency and reduce the need for large teams and funding. The trend raises questions about the future of venture capital investment in such lean and efficient companies.
Laxmi Dental Ltd's IPO got fully subscribed within minutes, ending the day at 5.28 times subscription with significant interest from retail and non-institutional investors. The IPO is a mix of fresh issues and OFS, with proceeds aimed at debt repayment and capital expenditure. Shares will be listed on BSE and NSE.
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.
US stocks dropped significantly after President Trump announced tariffs on Canada and Mexico. The S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq saw big falls amid concerns over economic growth and trade tensions. Certain sectors were hit hard, including Nvidia, Tesla, and Kroger. Investors are wary of economic uncertainties as future Federal Reserve actions remain in focus.
The International Gemmological Institute (India) Ltd's IPO was subscribed 72% on its second day. Retail investors showed strong interest, while institutional investors lagged. The IPO aims to raise ₹4,225 crore, with a portion going towards acquiring IGI Belgium and IGI Netherlands. The offer closes December 17.
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.