Global markets experienced a downturn as oil prices surged due to renewed fears of escalating Middle East conflict. Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, following alleged ceasefire breaches, has unsettled investors. This uncertainty looms as crucial negotiations between Iran and the US approach, with Tehran indicating reluctance to participate under current conditions.
The Indian stock market saw mixed movements today, with the BSE and NSE experiencing gains and losses across various sectors. Trent and SBI emerged as top gainers on both exchanges, while companies like Titan and Axis Bank faced declines. Technology and banking stocks showed a general downward trend.
Indian Railways is launching 908 summer special trains, operating 18,262 trips between April 15 and July 15, 2026, to manage increased passenger demand. This initiative aims to ease waiting lists and enhance travel convenience across the country. A significant portion of these services is already open for booking.
Data from MarineTraffic shows that several Indian and foreign ships headed for Indian ports are still awaiting clearance near the Strait of Hormuz. According to the petroleum ministry, 17 vessels have been identified for evacuation.
India’s T&D sector is poised for significant growth, driven by nearly Rs 9 trillion in planned investments through 2032. Despite a recent slowdown in new project orders due to manufacturing constraints, the sector remains robust, fueled by renewable energy expansion and strong domestic and global demand.
The central issue, however, was whether the earlier maintenance order stood extinguished because the High Court had observed that prior payments would constitute permanent alimony. The Court held that this question could not be answered in a blanket manner.
Prime Minister Modi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held high-level talks in Delhi, aiming to transform their trusted partnership into a futuristic one. The leaders witnessed the exchange of MoUs, covering cooperation in sectors from chips to ships, talent to technology, and energy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate a significant refinery-cum-petrochemical complex in Rajasthan’s Pachpadra. Developed by HPCL and the state government, this Rs 79,450 crore facility boasts a 9 MMTPA refining capacity and 2.4 MMTPA petrochemical output. Expected to commence commercial operations in July 2026, it aims to bolster India’s energy security and reduce import reliance.
Gold prices surged significantly this Akshaya Tritiya, prompting consumers to opt for lighter jewellery. Despite the steep rise, demand remained steady, with brands offering discounts and flexible payment options. Jewellers also leveraged quick commerce for wider reach, indicating a shift towards more calculated, value-driven purchases and sustained investment in digital gold and ETFs.
Indian workers are putting in fewer hours weekly compared to pre-pandemic levels, with self-employed individuals seeing the steepest decline. This trend, alongside modest real earnings growth, suggests lower aggregate demand and a recovery driven by a select few. Women’s increased labor force participation, particularly in rural agriculture, indicates distress-led employment.
