HDFC Bank said on Tuesday (March 14, 2026) it had appointed external law firms to independently assess the concerns raised in the resignation ​letter

Meta Platforms shares tumbled 7% after two verdicts found the social media giant liable for harm to young users. These rulings, totaling hundreds of millions in fines, could expose Meta to extensive litigation by targeting platform design, potentially leading to billions in damages and forcing significant business practice changes.

India formally joined Pax Silica in February marking a significant step in technology cooperation between New Delhi and Washington.

India has 60 days of oil stocks, one month of LPG supplies, says Government; Nayara Energy raised petrol prices by ₹5 per litre and diesel by ₹3 a litre

Infosys will acquire Optimum Healthcare IT for up to $465 million, including upfront and earnouts, excluding management incentives and retention bonuses.

Are interest rate expectations affecting gold prices? Why is a stronger dollar pushing prices down? Is a liquidity crunch forcing investors to book profits in gold? Will prices recover after the current correction?

Iran amplifies Epstein-linked narratives as it rejects a US peace plan as “one-sided,” while Trump warns Tehran to strike a deal or face continued military pressure.

India, the world’s second-biggest crude steel producer, is in ‌the midst of its worst ‌LPG ⁠supply crisis in decades ⁠as shipments from key producers in West Asia have been disrupted because of the ​Iran war.

The enhanced supply is effective immediately and aims to cover critical sectors, including essential services, hotels, industries, and support for migrant labourers.

Ukraine alleges Russia spread false claims on detained Ukrainians in India, urges New Delhi to rely on verified facts and resist “disinformation” pressure.

Shrikant Chouhan, Head Equity Research at Kotak Securities advised traders to exit long positions if the index falls below 23,000 levels.

HDFC Bank said on Tuesday (March 14, 2026) it had appointed external law firms to independently assess the concerns raised in the resignation ​letter

Trump claims Iran is “begging” for a deal but signals uncertainty on talks, linking any agreement to nuclear curbs and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

India mainly exports low-grade iron ore that is generally not used by steel mills in the country, mining officials said

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said all petrol pumps across the country are adequately stocked and operating normally, with no rationing of petrol or diesel

Chennai Petroleum Corporation announced an interim dividend of Rs 8 per share for FY 2025-26, payable by April 25. Shares remain strong, up over 60% in a year, trading above key moving averages.

During the 2025 summer schedule, there were 25,610 weekly flights and this time, a 10% reduction would mean the number of services will come down by 2,561.

You can bump up your tax deductions under ‘Section 80C’ if you are still under the old tax regime by adding ₹50000 to the NPS (National Pension Scheme). The NPS addition under ‘Section 80CCD(1B))’ will take your total deduction to ₹2 lakh.

India also made a strong push for structural reforms at the World Trade Organization, calling for a transparent, inclusive and member-driven process, with development at its core.

Crude prices have more than doubled from pre-crisis levels, raising input and logistics costs and disrupting supplies, including key fertiliser inputs, the agency said.

Without mentioning the price increase, in a statement issued Thursday, Nayara Energy held escalating tensions in West Asia have created “unprecedented challenges in the industry, impacting several aspects of fuel disruption and availability”

Wave Life Sciences shares plunged ​58% on Thursday after a higher dose of its experimental obesity drug failed to show a clear improvement at reducing a dangerous type of belly fat.

U.S. insurers Equitable and Corebridge Financial said on ​Thursday they will merge in an all-stock deal that would create a $22 billion retirement, life ​insurance and asset management company.

Various documents connected with the loan transactions have been recovered, the CBI spokesperson said.

New applications for U.S. unemployment benefits rose slightly last ​week, suggesting the labor market remains stable and likely giving ​the Federal Reserve scope to hold interest rates steady while monitoring inflation risks from the conflict in the Middle ​East.

Geopolitical tensions and mixed signals on US-Iran talks weigh on sentiment, pulling major indices into the red at the open

The 35-year-old rapper-turned-politician senior leader of the RSP, which won a landslide victory in the March 5 poll, will also be the first person from the Madhes region to hold the top executive post in the country.

Expert verdict: Top analysts weigh in on Jio Financial Services, Wipro and Bajaj Auto.

The report revealed that operational roles like delivery, driver, and automobile jobs recorded salary increases of up to 16%, while manufacturing roles grew by around 11%, reflecting intense demand for skilled operational talent.

Nifty extended gains for a second session, led by banks, auto and consumer stocks amid easing Middle East tensions. Analysts see bullish momentum sustaining above key support, with upside potential if resistance levels are crossed, while highlighting selective stock buying opportunities.

BTS: The Return is directed by Bao Nguyen and stars all seven members of the group — RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, V, Jimin and Jungkook.

Foreigners have sold about $52 billion of Asian stocks since the war in Iran began, putting the region on track for its biggest monthly outflow in Bloomberg-compiled data going back to 2009.

The OECD in its interim Economic Outlook report said the evolving conflict in the Middle East has "human and economic costs" for the countries directly involved, and will test the resilience of the global economy.

The Vadodara civic body is aiming to raise another Rs 200 crore through the municipal bonds route by July this year, people familiar with the development have said.

Wall Street stocks opened lower as oil prices surged, fueled by escalating tensions between the US and Iran and a lack of immediate peace prospects. Investors are concerned about the economic impact of high oil prices, while memory chip manufacturers faced declines following new AI research.

Parallely, state-owned oil marketing companies also said there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG and supplies remain stable.

If such an arrangement works out, India would be paying for almost 80% of its oil imports in non-dollar currencies. The flip side is risking Donald Trump’s tariff ire.

About three to four CoBRA units of the CRPF are being moved from Chhattisgarh to Jharkhand to undertake a special operation in the Saranda forests of West Singhbhum district.

If such an arrangement works out, India would be paying for almost 80% of its oil imports in non-dollar currencies. The flip side is risking Donald Trump’s tariff ire.

Past trends have shown that such a goal doesn’t need huge sums to begin. Even small, regular investments can grow significantly over time due to compounding.

India has 60 days of oil stocks, one month of LPG supplies, says Government; Nayara Energy raised petrol prices by ₹5 per litre and diesel by ₹3 a litre

Fertiliser sector dependence on imports remains high, with 20% of urea and one-third of complex fertilisers, primarily DAP, being imported.

Vaishnaw asked the officials to design subways in such a way that people feel free to use them and these subways should not face waterlogging during the rainy season.

Vaishnaw asked the officials to design subways in such a way that people feel free to use them and these subways should not face waterlogging during the rainy season.

On Day 8, Dhurandhar 2 has collected around Rs 17.60 crore (India net) so far, taking its total to Rs 641.57 crore net.

Gold and silver prices fell sharply as MCX trading resumed after the Ram Navami holiday. Gold dropped Rs 4,300 per 10g to Rs 1,39,800, while silver slid Rs 13,700 per kg to Rs 2,21,146. Domestic bullion followed global cues, with COMEX gold down 2.87% and silver falling 7%.

Gold and silver prices fell sharply as MCX trading resumed after the Ram Navami holiday. Gold dropped Rs 4,300 per 10g to Rs 1,39,800, while silver slid Rs 13,700 per kg to Rs 2,21,146. Domestic bullion followed global cues, with COMEX gold down 2.87% and silver falling 7%.

Daniel Kahneman explains how framing bias distorts investment decisions, making identical probabilities appear different depending on presentation. Investors often react to positive or negative wording rather than actual risk. Recognising this cognitive trap and reframing information objectively can lead to clearer judgment, rational decisions and better long-term outcomes.

markets fell March Iran US Israel conflict drove oil surge, hitting Dalal Street hard. Investor Vijay Kedia urges patience, stressing losses are unreal until sold and crises build temperament, advising discipline, emotional control, and long term perspective for wealth creation.

With new owners on the horizon, a new captain at the helm, and a reshaped core, Rajasthan Royals enter IPL 2026 under pressure to convert promise into a long-awaited second title.

It held press reports suggesting RIL made Iranian oil purchases were “misleading and incorrect”

Vijay Kedia urges investors to stay calm amid market volatility, noting that losses are paper until realised. The market capitalisation of all BSE-listed firms has dropped by Rs 32.7 lakh crore since the Iran conflict. Kedia suggests long-term discipline, rational decision-making, and focusing on temperament over timing are key to sustainable wealth creation.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said all petrol pumps across the country are adequately stocked and operating normally, with no rationing of petrol or diesel

Study finds US emissions caused $10 trillion in global losses since 1990, with developing nations bearing the brunt of climate damage.

The aircraft operating the flight AI111 was airborne for around four hours before the decision was taken to divert the plane when it was in the Saudi Arabia airspace.

HSBC predicts big tech companies will boost capital expenditure as AI enters a "megacycle." Despite market concerns, these firms are expected to generate substantial operating cash flow, with a significant portion allocated to capex rather than shareholder returns. Nvidia, Alphabet, and Amazon are projected to lead revenue growth.

Planning your daughter’s future involves investing in products such as Sukanya Samriddhi, mutual funds, PPF, insurance, and health cover while setting clear goals to ensure financial security and long-term growth for her future.

Planning your will? There is a difference between a legal heir and a nominee when it comes to inheritance. Here is how estate planning can help your family sidestep complications in the event of a sudden death…

The outbreak was reported at a government poultry farm in the Koni area, where around 4,400 chickens died between March 19 and March 24.

The upcoming home season for India will feature four visiting teams, viz. West Indies, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Australia, with 22 international matches played across 17 cities.

The 79-year-old leader was admitted at around 10.22 pm on Tuesday after developing a fever, with sources earlier attributing her illness to a change in the weather.

US President insists negotiations are underway despite repeated Iranian denials, as rhetoric escalates over war, oil, and leadership claims

Punjab Kings return with a settled core and renewed focus after last season’s near-miss, looking to convert consistency into a maiden IPL title in 2026.

India faces an opportune moment to attract substantial Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) amidst global capital shifts. While reforms for Foreign Portfolio Investments (FPI) have progressed, a sharper focus on simplifying FDI regulations and execution pathways is crucial. Addressing legacy issues, revisiting pricing norms, and streamlining corporate restructuring can unlock significant long-term capital.

Ambit Institutional Equities has downgraded HPCL, BPCL and IOC to ‘Sell’, citing sustained high crude prices and limited government support. It sees Brent crude stabilising around $80 to $100 per barrel, pressuring OMC margins, while favouring upstream and gas companies as beneficiaries of elevated energy prices and macro shifts.

As part of a wider push to cut dependence on a single fuel source, India is enlarging its gas network and may soon discontinue LPG distribution to homes served by piped natural gas.

Nayara Energy raised petrol prices by ₹5 per litre and diesel by ₹3 a litre, passing on part of the recent surge in global oil prices following the war in West Asia

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said all petrol pumps across the country are adequately stocked and operating normally, with no rationing of petrol or diesel

Mallya said RCB will always remain a part of his DNA with "indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World".

Discover smart asset allocation strategies for retirement that safeguard your savings, boost growth, and secure a steady income for a worry-free, comfortable future.

The bank emphasised that the scheme offers an option to retain unused capital gains, ensuring customers can reinvest thoughtfully.

Downdetector noted a sharp rise in complaints over a brief period, suggesting an abrupt service failure.

Rent shapes everything: how much you save, how stressed you are, and how quickly you build a financial cushion. As rents climb and entry-level salaries struggle to keep pace, the tough question is: how much is too much?

Iran War Live Updates: The Trump administration had offered a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran, a proposal rejected by Tehran.

Global brokerage Goldman Sachs has turned cautious on Indian equities, cutting its Nifty target and warning of an “energy-shock-led” earnings downgrade cycle. The firm expects higher-for-longer oil prices amid the US-Iran conflict to worsen India’s macro outlook, weaken returns and pressure corporate earnings over the next few quarters.

Global brokerage Goldman Sachs has turned cautious on Indian equities, cutting its Nifty target and warning of an “energy-shock-led” earnings downgrade cycle. The firm expects higher-for-longer oil prices amid the US-Iran conflict to worsen India’s macro outlook, weaken returns and pressure corporate earnings over the next few quarters.

Gold and silver prices declined sharply amid uncertainty over Iran-US tensions and rising oil prices, which clouded rate cut expectations. While geopolitical risks persist, shifting monetary outlook and elevated crude prices are weighing on bullion. Analysts see continued volatility with key support and resistance levels guiding near-term price movements.

A private bus collided with a tipper truck, leading to 13 fatalities and 20 injuries. Following the impact, the bus erupted in flames and was entirely consumed by fire.

Rising LPG prices, supply delays and black market spikes are squeezing households and small eateries, triggering a rush toward electric cooking alternatives.

Investor anxiety is rising as oil prices surge amid the US-Iran conflict, while JPMorgan Chase has launched new credit default swaps allowing bets against the debt of major tech giants including Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, Microsoft and Oracle. The move echoes concerns of a 2008-style crisis as AI-driven borrowing accelerates.

His mortal remains will be kept in Kollam for public homage, allowing fans and colleagues to pay their last respects before being taken to his hometown.

The ‘buddymoon’ trend, in particular, is gaining traction as couples choose to celebrate milestones with their close friends.

Chhattisgarh caps commercial LPG supply, sets timeline for domestic refill booking

The potential payoff ‌from owning SpaceX shares before it goes public is big enough that many are willing to pay a premium for access and live with the uncertainty

Raghav was employed as a Client Manager at the bank during the time of the alleged crime. He is charged with sending doctored reports to the municipal body.

The proposed IPO comprises a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to ₹120 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of shares worth up to ₹640 crore by promoters

Investors wary as Iran reviews U.S. proposal; stocks and gold slip while oil advances; markets worried about energy price shocks

Timeless investment lessons from ‘Think and Grow Rich’ show key strategies to stay confident, make smarter decisions, and grow wealth even during uncertain and volatile market conditions.

Japanese stocks experienced their largest foreign outflows in 18 months, totaling 2.51 trillion yen, as Middle East tensions fueled inflation concerns and potential Bank of Japan rate hikes. Despite this, foreign investors bought Japanese bonds, while domestic investors reduced their foreign stock and bond purchases.

Bharat PET has filed its DRHP with Sebi for a Rs 760-crore IPO, including a fresh issue and OFS. The issue comprises a fresh issue of equity shares worth up to Rs 120 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to Rs 640 crore by promoter selling shareholders. The packaging maker plans to repay debt, fund capex and strengthen operations.

The ‌President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) could ultimately include 24 people, according to an executive order

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 opener in Bengaluru on March 28.

Samsung Electronics ‌and SK Group ​said they were ⁠asking employees to curb private car ‌use and follow fuel-saving measures

Nobel laureate Paul Krugman has accused people close to former US President Donald Trump of insider trading, calling $580 million in pre-announcement oil and S&P futures bets “treason.” The trades were executed minutes before Trump’s post on US-Iran talks, triggering sharp market moves and raising serious national security concerns.

Twelve penny stocks soared up to 432% in FY26, with three turning multibaggers amid strong momentum in low-priced, high-risk micro-caps.

Nithin Kamath advises against relying solely on employer-provided health insurance due to limitations and potential gaps. He emphasises the importance of purchasing a personal health policy for better coverage and financial protection, especially given the rising medical inflation in India.

The row began after a Sikh group objected to a viral image of Ranveer Singh in Sikh attire holding a cigarette, calling it disrespectful.

With elevated cash levels and relatively subdued stock performance, a buyback could help support valuations while signalling confidence during a period of strategic reset.

Form 130 replaces Form 16 from April 2026, simplifying TDS reporting by providing structured details on income, deductions, and tax, helping taxpayers ensure accurate filings and better compliance.

Bitcoin hovered near $71,000 as geopolitical tensions eased, with traders eyeing a $18.6 billion options expiry as a key catalyst. Bitcoin held on exchanges dropped to a seven-year low, signaling reduced available supply. Ethereum lagged, facing selling pressure. The market remains in a compression phase, awaiting a clear trigger.

Smallcap stocks witnessed sharp erosion in FY26 amid global uncertainties, valuation concerns, and risk-off sentiment. Rising geopolitical tensions, tariff worries, and higher crude prices triggered heavy selling, with several stocks seeing steep declines as investor confidence weakened and volatility remained elevated across the broader market.

End the Fed?

Google said TurboQuant is designed to improve how data is stored in key-value cache, which helps systems run more efficiently and reduces the need for high memory capacity.

Gift Nifty dropped over 100 points, indicating a weak start for Indian markets around 23,170. The fall comes as oil prices rebound amid uncertainty over Middle East tensions, with Iran still reviewing a US proposal to end the conflict.

Gift Nifty dropped over 100 points, indicating a weak start for Indian markets around 23,170. The fall comes as oil prices rebound amid uncertainty over Middle East tensions, with Iran still reviewing a US proposal to end the conflict.

Indian stock markets will remain shut for three days over the next two weeks due to key holidays. Amid heightened global volatility, Zerodha CEO Nithin Kamath advised traders to prioritise capital preservation, reduce risk and take a break, highlighting the mental toll of trading in uncertain, headline-driven market conditions.

This has shocked us to our core

Gold prices have declined sharply in 2026 despite rising geopolitical tensions, driven by a liquidity crunch, shifting interest rate expectations, and supply disruptions. While the sell-off reflects short-term pressures, it has raised broader questions about gold’s reliability as a safe haven amid evolving global economic conditions.

“Teams across ‌Meta regularly restructure or implement changes ​to ensure they’re in the best position to achieve ⁠their goals. Where possible, we are finding other opportunities for employees whose positions ‌may be impacted,” a Meta spokesperson said

The Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G will be released in early April, with pre-orders available on Amazon.

Here is a primer on investment options, which come under the EEE (Exempt, Exempt and Exempt) category in tax parlance, that do not attract any tax at any stage.

The recent rise in the US dollar, driven by Middle East tensions, is likely temporary and reflects a short-term “safe-haven” rush rather than a lasting trend, according to Invesco’s Kristina Campmany. She believes the dollar remains fundamentally overvalued against major currencies like the yen, Australian dollar, and yuan. Despite a modest recovery, the broader trend still संकेत underlying weakness, with growing concerns in Washington that a strong dollar hurts US exports.

The refiner will share the shipment with its state-owned peers Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd. and Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd.

New Delhi has sought safe passage of energy and fertilizer supplies via ships and tankers from the Gulf via the narrow strait that has been virtually blocked by Iran in retaliation to US and Israeli aggression.

Domestic and global brokerages have initiated coverage on 11 Indian stocks across sectors like AI, defence and home services, signalling upside potential of up to 40%. Analysts remain bullish on names such as Sagility, Solar Industries and Ather Energy, citing strong growth visibility, structural tailwinds and improving profitability outlook.

Real estate stocks have seen significant declines, with the Nifty Realty index down 22% in 2026, due to concerns over IT layoffs and broader market weakness from the Iran-US war. Experts advise a selective approach, favoring quality large-cap players with balanced portfolios and potential growth in new geographies.

Amid escalating geopolitical tensions and a crude oil shock, global markets face heightened uncertainty. Investors are advised to diversify 10-20% of their portfolio globally, favoring emerging markets and Japan, with a staggered approach to fresh investments due to currency fluctuations and macro shifts.

Iran War Live Updates: The Trump administration had offered a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran, a proposal rejected by Tehran.

The Federal Reserve reported a smaller financial loss in 2025 as declining interest expenses improved its balance sheet. While losses persist due to pandemic-era policies and rate hikes, easing pressures and modest profits signal gradual normalisation, though it may take years before remittances to the Treasury resume.

Dhurandhar: The Revenge Box Office Collection: Along with Pushpa 2, it is the fastest Indian film to enter the Rs 1,000 crore club worldwide.

The majority of producers on the Gulf Coast are running their plants at near capacity, and much of their supply is already under long-term contract.

Along with Pushpa 2, it is the fastest Indian film to enter the Rs 1,000 crore club worldwide.

Republicans have suffered a string of losses in off-cycle elections since Trump took office, with voters frustrated over the cost of living and his immigration policies.

Iran War Live Updates: The Trump administration had offered a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran, a proposal rejected by Tehran.

The disruptions in Hormuz have resulted in forced shut-ins of Persian Gulf oil production, while refineries in the area have also been damaged in the war.

Global benchmark Brent crude rose above $103 a barrel, rebounding after a brief dip earlier this week, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $91.

Signs of strain in the partnership between the ChatGPT maker and the Windows maker are becoming visible

Healthcare providers are under pressure to improve efficiency while managing costs—opening the door for automation, data analytics, and cloud migration projects.

Oil prices saw a rebound as markets reassessed Middle East de-escalation prospects. Iran is reviewing a US proposal to end the conflict, which has significantly disrupted global energy flows. Despite ongoing tensions and potential supply disruptions, analysts predict continued price support and possible surges if the Strait of Hormuz remains affected.

Wealth accumulation is a long-term process and requires not only financial discipline but also smart money management.

Jefferies Financial reported a 22% profit increase, driven by investment banking, but missed analyst estimates due to loan losses from collapsed companies. Despite geopolitical disruptions, the firm anticipates a strong 2026 for mergers and acquisitions, fueled by AI investments and a favorable regulatory climate.

NSE, BSE Holidays 2026: Ram Navami marks the second market holiday this month, following the March 3 closure for Holi, excluding weekends.

The dollar held its ground in Asian trading as investors assessed de-escalation prospects in the U.S.-Iran conflict and scaled back expectations of a Federal Reserve rate hike. Geopolitical uncertainty boosted the dollar index, while traders grew more confident the Fed would keep rates unchanged this year. Other currencies like the Australian and New Zealand dollars saw slight declines.

Banks across multiple states in India will remain shut on March 26 due to Ram Navami celebrations.

As India grapples with an LPG shortage due to the war in West Asia disrupting supplies from key sources, the government is pushing households and commercial users to switch to Piped Natural Gas (PNG)

NSE Holidays 2026: Is there a stock market holiday today? ndian stock market exchanges NSE and BSE, will remain closed on Thursday on account of Shri Ram Navami

Jio Platforms is preparing for a $4 billion IPO, offering a partial exit for its 14 global investors, including Meta and Google. The offer for sale will see early shareholders trim approximately 8-8.5% of their stakes, reducing their combined holding to about 30% post-IPO. Reliance Industries will maintain its 67% ownership.

Indian stock market is showing strong recovery, gaining for a second consecutive day. Investors are regaining confidence as crude oil prices cool and diplomatic talks are underway. Analysts predict the upward trend may continue, with potential for further gains in the coming days. Sectors like autos, metals, and BFSI are expected to lead this recovery.

Stocks for the looong run

Gold and silver prices surged on Wednesday, reversing recent declines, driven by a weaker dollar and lower oil prices. Easing inflation concerns and a softer interest rate outlook also boosted sentiment, with safe-haven demand increasing due to geopolitical developments. While a near-term recovery is expected, analysts suggest a firm US dollar may limit significant upside.

Kotak Mahindra Bank is reconciling ₹150 crore in fixed deposits and accounts linked to the Municipal Corporation of Panchkula following allegations of missing funds. The bank has filed a police complaint and stated that all account processes and transactions were handled according to due process and banking norms.

Sebi is collaborating with Google to combat financial influencers who break rules. Artificial intelligence will be used to identify and remove these individuals from online spaces. A verified badge is now available on Google Play for stock trading apps from registered entities. This initiative aims to protect retail investors from fraudulent apps and misleading content.

The market regulator has proposed an IT Resilience Index (ITRI) to assess the technology robustness of stock exchanges and other market infrastructure. This index will monitor the health of IT systems, with availability and security carrying the highest weightages. The framework aims to provide clearer insights into vulnerabilities and enable inter-institutional comparisons.

The Reserve Bank of India aims to keep overnight borrowing costs below its main lending rate. This strategy supports economic growth despite rising imported inflation. Policymakers may overlook current high inflation figures. They are expected to maintain interest rates unchanged. This approach counters a slowdown and avoids hindering growth. Support from monetary and fiscal policies is expected to continue.

The Indian rupee neared 94 against the dollar on Wednesday, despite a pullback in equities. Central bank interventions helped keep the rupee above this psychological threshold. Exporters withholding conversions and month-end dollar demand contributed to the pressure, while geopolitical tensions also played a role.

US markets saw a positive start as global stocks rallied. Oil prices dropped, easing inflation fears. Iran is reviewing a US proposal, sparking hopes for peace. This led to gains in sectors like materials and consumer discretionary. Companies like Arm and SpaceX also saw significant stock movements. Investors are watching for further developments.

Bonds from semi-liquid private credit funds have seen a significant value drop, reaching a one-year low. This indicates investor anticipation of sector stress, even before recent redemption surges. Major U.S. banks are tightening lending, and funds are capping withdrawals amid concerns over valuations and economic health.

UltraTech Cement has finally settled a lengthy arbitration dispute with Jaiprakash Associates, paving the way for a fresh financial landscape. Under the newly minted agreement, ₹1,000 crore worth of preference shares tied to the Dalla Super cement project will be redeemed. This resolution is strategically aligned with the Adani Group’s recent acquisition, potentially easing their initial cash burden.

Alastair Stout and Arabella Stanton take on the iconic roles of Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, completing the central trio alongside Harry.

Prudential Plc and HCL Group are close to launching their health insurance joint venture. Regulatory approvals are progressing well. Eased Press Note 3 rules are facilitating the deal. This partnership was delayed for over a year. The venture is structured as a 70:30 partnership. Relaxations in rules are expected to improve foreign investment.

February 2026 witnessed a subtle decline in credit card transactions compared to the previous month, January. Despite this, a year-on-year comparison reveals increased consumer spending. Banks are enthusiastically welcoming new credit card clientele, which hints at a thoughtful growth strategy. The sustained expansion is primarily fueled by advancements in digital services and e-commerce.

Unverified Iranian claims of downing a US F/A-18 near Chabahar fuel tensions, as viral footage circulates amid escalating regional conflict.

New tax rules will apply from April 1. A 12 per cent surcharge will be levied on capital gains from company share buybacks. This change affects individual and corporate shareholders. Experts suggest this may make buybacks a costlier option for cash extraction. Amendments also clarify rules for electronically granted approvals, aiming to validate past decisions.