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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (Aug 6) dismissed Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's claim that ordinary users could end up paying for UPI transactions. In a post on X, the Congress leader had claimed that with the Modi government's Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, "eliminates the statutory guarantee that had so far kept UPI transactions fee-free". He alleged that "The burden of this will ultimately fall on ordinary people, who may now have to pay even for using UPI".Replying to Ramesh's X post, Indian FM Sitharaman clarified that any Merchant Discount Rate (MDR), if introduced in the future, would be charged only to merchants and not to customers.The exchange comes amid a political debate over the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to give the Centre the legal authority to modify the existing zero-MDR framework for UPI and RuPay transactions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-reveals-scale-of-bank-fraud-54-accused-fled-india-ed-launches-global-hunt-1785917330019">Government reveals scale of bank fraud: 54 accused fled India, ED launches global hunt</a><h2>Sitharaman: MDR is for merchants, not customers</h2>Responding to Jairam Ramesh on X, Sitharaman said his claim was misleading and urged him not to spread misinformation. "Before spreading a canard, @Jairam_Ramesh ji, please consider this: Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies only on the merchants and not on the end users/customers. It will support the Banks &amp; Fintech to invest more on infrastructure, innovation &amp; security. All users of UPI will reap the benefits of this investment," she wrote.The finance minister said the objective of MDR is to strengthen India's digital payments ecosystem by enabling banks and fintech companies to invest more in infrastructure, innovation and cybersecurity.<h2>No decision yet on imposing MDR</h2>Sitharaman also clarified that the government has not taken any decision to introduce an MDR on UPI transactions.She said the issue would be examined by the UPI and Services Steering Committee, headed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), only after Parliament passes the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026.The proposed legislation authorises the Centre to specify which electronic payment modes or transactions will remain free of charge. According to the finance minister, any discussion on merchant fees will take place only after the Bill becomes law.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-can-t-bring-your-son-back-assam-cm-meets-family-of-boy-who-died-saving-pet-dog-from-floods-1785994667567">'I can't bring your son back': Assam CM meets family of boy who died saving pet dog from floods</a><h2>What did Jairam Ramesh say?</h2>Earlier, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh argued that even if the Merchant Discount Rate is levied on merchants, the cost would ultimately be passed on to consumers.He also rejected the government's position that introducing MDR is necessary to make the UPI ecosystem financially sustainable, describing the argument as "entirely wrong."Sitharaman, however, maintained that customers would not be required to pay the merchant fee.<h2>FM blames Opposition for delay in debate</h2>The finance minister also criticised the Opposition for repeated disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session, saying the proposed legislation could have been debated in Parliament had proceedings not been stalled. "Could have been discussed on the floor of the House if your party @INCIndia engages constructively in Parliament when the Bill was/is tabled. (LS/RS respectively)," she wrote.The Bill itself does not impose an MDR on UPI or RuPay transactions. Instead, it creates a legal framework that would allow the government to modify the current zero-MDR regime through a notification at a later stage.

Could your next UPI payment come with a fee? The claim has sparked a political showdown between the BJP and the opposition Congress party. Now, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has finally broken her silence. Here' what she said.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday (Aug 6) dismissed Congress leader Jairam Ramesh's claim that ordinary users could end up paying for UPI transactions. In a post on X, the Congress leader had claimed that with the Modi government's Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, "eliminates the statutory guarantee that had so far kept UPI transactions fee-free". He alleged that "The burden of this will ultimately fall on ordinary people, who may now have to pay even for using UPI". Replying to Ramesh's X post, Indian FM Sitharaman clarified that any Merchant Discount Rate (MDR), if introduced in the future, would be charged only to merchants and not to customers. The exchange comes amid a political debate over the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to give the Centre the legal authority to modify the existing zero-MDR framework for UPI and RuPay transactions. Also read | Government reveals scale of bank fraud: 54 accused fled India, ED launches global hunt Sitharaman: MDR is for merchants, not customers Responding to Jairam Ramesh on X, Sitharaman said his claim was misleading and urged him not to spread misinformation. "Before spreading a canard, @Jairam_Ramesh ji, please consider this: Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) applies only on the merchants and not on the end users/customers. It will support the Banks & Fintech to invest more on infrastructure, innovation & security. All users of UPI will reap the benefits of this investment," she wrote. The finance minister said the objective of MDR is to strengthen India's digital payments ecosystem by enabling banks and fintech companies to invest more in infrastructure, innovation and cybersecurity. No decision yet on imposing MDR Sitharaman also clarified that the government has not taken any decision to introduce an MDR on UPI transactions. She said the issue would be examined by the UPI and Services Steering Committee, headed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), only after Parliament passes the Taxation and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The proposed legislation authorises the Centre to specify which electronic payment modes or transactions will remain free of charge. According to the finance minister, any discussion on merchant fees will take place only after the Bill becomes law. Also read | 'I can't bring your son back': Assam CM meets family of boy who died saving pet dog from floods What did Jairam Ramesh say? Earlier, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh argued that even if the Merchant Discount Rate is levied on merchants, the cost would ultimately be passed on to consumers. He also rejected the government's position that introducing MDR is necessary to make the UPI ecosystem financially sustainable, describing the argument as "entirely wrong." Sitharaman, however, maintained that customers would not be required to pay the merchant fee. FM blames Opposition for delay in debate The finance minister also criticised the Opposition for repeated disruptions during the ongoing Monsoon Session, saying the proposed legislation could have been debated in Parliament had proceedings not been stalled. "Could have been discussed on the floor of the House if your party @INCIndia engages constructively in Parliament when the Bill was/is tabled. (LS/RS respectively)," she wrote. The Bill itself does not impose an MDR on UPI or RuPay transactions. Instead, it creates a legal framework that would allow the government to modify the current zero-MDR regime through a notification at a later stage.

Could your next UPI payment come with a fee? The claim has sparked a political showdown between the BJP and the opposition Congress party. Now, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has finally broken her silence. Here' what she said.

Will ordinary Indian users have to pay for UPI? Nirmala Sitharaman breaks silence on Congress' MDR fee claim

China's humanoid robotics industry is about to face its biggest market test yet. Unitree Robotics, one of the country's best-known robot makers, is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) that values the company at 60.99 billion yuan (about $9 billion). The listing is being closely watched because it could set the benchmark for how investors value the next generation of AI-powered robotics firms. The Hangzhou-based company plans to raise 6.1 billion yuan by selling 40.45 million shares on Shanghai's STAR Market. The IPO has attracted heavyweight investors including DeepSeek, Tencent, China Telecom, Citic Securities and several state-backed institutions.<h2>Why Unitree's IPO matters</h2>The listing is widely seen as mainland China's first major humanoid robotics IPO. Analysts believe it could become the reference point for dozens of robotics startups preparing to go public. DeepSeek invested 141 million yuan in the company under a three-year lock-up agreement. The two companies also plan to jointly develop AI models and embodied intelligence technologies while giving each other priority access to AI services and robotics products. Industry experts say the valuation could effectively become the "ceiling" for many competing embodied AI startups unless they can demonstrate stronger commercial success.<h2>A profitable robotics company in a crowded market</h2>Unlike many robotics startups that are still burning cash, Unitree is already profitable. According to its prospectus, the company generated 1.7 billion yuan in revenue and 591 million yuan in adjusted net profit last year. Even so, investors are paying a premium. The IPO values Unitree at around 219 times earnings and nearly 36 times sales, significantly above several listed robotics rivals. The strong pricing reflects growing optimism that humanoid robots could become one of AI's next major commercial opportunities, following the rapid rise of generative AI.<h2>Investor excitement meets valuation concerns</h2>Retail demand for the IPO remains strong despite concerns that valuations across China's robotics industry may be running ahead of fundamentals. Several startups including Deep Robotics, AgiBot, Leju Robotics, X Square Robot and LimX Dynamics are also preparing public listings as venture funding pours into embodied AI. Analysts say Unitree's success or failure could influence fundraising across the entire sector. While short-term enthusiasm remains high, many believe long-term valuations will ultimately depend on one factor: whether humanoid robots can move beyond demonstrations and achieve large-scale commercial adoption.

Unitree Robotics is preparing a landmark $9 billion IPO backed by DeepSeek, Tencent and state investors. The profitable humanoid robot maker could set the valuation benchmark for China's booming embodied AI industry as investors bet on the next wave of artificial intelligence.

China's humanoid robotics industry is about to face its biggest market test yet. Unitree Robotics, one of the country's best-known robot makers, is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) that values the company at 60.99 billion yuan (about $9 billion). The listing is being closely watched because it could set the benchmark for how investors value the next generation of AI-powered robotics firms. The Hangzhou-based company plans to raise 6.1 billion yuan by selling 40.45 million shares on Shanghai's STAR Market. The IPO has attracted heavyweight investors including DeepSeek, Tencent, China Telecom, Citic Securities and several state-backed institutions. Why Unitree's IPO matters The listing is widely seen as mainland China's first major humanoid robotics IPO. Analysts believe it could become the reference point for dozens of robotics startups preparing to go public. DeepSeek invested 141 million yuan in the company under a three-year lock-up agreement. The two companies also plan to jointly develop AI models and embodied intelligence technologies while giving each other priority access to AI services and robotics products. Industry experts say the valuation could effectively become the "ceiling" for many competing embodied AI startups unless they can demonstrate stronger commercial success. A profitable robotics company in a crowded market Unlike many robotics startups that are still burning cash, Unitree is already profitable. According to its prospectus, the company generated 1.7 billion yuan in revenue and 591 million yuan in adjusted net profit last year. Even so, investors are paying a premium. The IPO values Unitree at around 219 times earnings and nearly 36 times sales, significantly above several listed robotics rivals. The strong pricing reflects growing optimism that humanoid robots could become one of AI's next major commercial opportunities, following the rapid rise of generative AI. Investor excitement meets valuation concerns Retail demand for the IPO remains strong despite concerns that valuations across China's robotics industry may be running ahead of fundamentals. Several startups including Deep Robotics, AgiBot, Leju Robotics, X Square Robot and LimX Dynamics are also preparing public listings as venture funding pours into embodied AI. Analysts say Unitree's success or failure could influence fundraising across the entire sector. While short-term enthusiasm remains high, many believe long-term valuations will ultimately depend on one factor: whether humanoid robots can move beyond demonstrations and achieve large-scale commercial adoption.

Unitree Robotics is preparing a landmark $9 billion IPO backed by DeepSeek, Tencent and state investors. The profitable humanoid robot maker could set the valuation benchmark for China's booming embodied AI industry as investors bet on the next wave of artificial intelligence.

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has found seven states with off-budget borrowing, incorrectly classified expenditure, untransferred cesses and other unpaid obligations to make their budget look healthier than reality. The real financial position of these states was worse than what the official numbers showed.&nbsp;The report found that Maharashtra and West Bengal seem to have managed to keep their fiscal deficits within their respective limits in 2024-25. Meanwhile, the revenue deficit of Bihar increased nearly sevenfold after audit adjustments, and Chhattisgarh’s doubled. In addition, Gujarat retained a revenue surplus; however, it was almost Rs 12,000 crore smaller than its originally indicated Finance Accounts.<h3>Fiscal deficit of seven states</h3>Maharashtra was found to have a fiscal deficit of Rs 1,24,208.74 crore, marking 2.74 per cent of its gross state domestic product, or GSDP. The Maharashtra report of the CAG increased the deficit by Rs 20,717.72 crore to Rs 1,44,926.46 crore, showing 3.20 per cent of GSDP. The biggest adjustment rose from Rs 18,440 crore borrowed during 2024-25 through the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation. The loans carried a state guarantee, and their principal and interest were supposed to be met through budgetary provisions.&nbsp;Bihar's Finance Accounts showed a revenue deficit of just Rs 357.38 crore, but the CAG recalculated this figure to Rs 2,500.81 crore in its Bihar report. This revision stemmed from revenue expenditure wrongly booked as capital expenditure, along with shortfalls or non-transfers of funds to the National Pension System, Single Nodal Agency accounts, and funds meant for construction workers, road safety, and mineral exploration.&nbsp;As a result, Bihar's revenue deficit rose from 0.04 per cent to 0.25 per cent of GSDP after the audit. Its fiscal deficit, already exceeding the prescribed target, climbed further too, from 4.16 per cent per the Finance Accounts to 4.37 per cent on a post-audit basis.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-gangster-atiq-ahmed-s-son-on-way-to-meet-jailed-brother-killed-in-road-accident-in-jhansi-1786002698869">UP gangster Atiq Ahmed's son, on way to meet jailed brother, killed in road accident in Jhansi</a>&nbsp;Chhattisgarh had reported a revenue deficit of Rs 5,099.47 crore, which the CAG revised upward to Rs 10,245.83 crore. This change was mainly driven by Rs 1,234.79 crore in revenue expenditure misclassified as capital expenditure, plus Rs 3,912.32 crore in off-budget borrowing repayments that were recorded as capital spending. Gujarat's Finance Accounts had shown a revenue surplus of Rs 18,942.94 crore, but CAG adjustments cut this down to Rs 7,013.97 crore, a drop of Rs 11,928.97 crore, or nearly 63 per cent.&nbsp;West Bengal had reported a fiscal deficit of Rs 61,924 crore, or 3.41 per cent of GSDP, staying within its 3.50 percent limit. However, once untransferred cess, the non-recoupment of the Contingency Fund, and other adjustments were factored in, the CAG's post-audit figure rose to Rs 63,739.23 crore, or 3.51 per cent of GSDP.&nbsp;On the other hand, the CAG raised Karnataka's revenue deficit from Rs 20,834 crore to Rs 22,843 crore, citing misclassified capital expenditure and unpaid interest. Kerala's fiscal deficit rose from Rs 48,248.14 crore (3.86 per cent of GSDP) to Rs 48,510.20 crore (3.89 per cent). The audit flagged Rs 39,230.33 crore in off-budget borrowings via KIIFB and KSSPL, excluded from Kerala's reported Rs 4.46 lakh crore liabilities (35.71 per cent of GSDP); including them would push the ratio to 38.86 per cent.

Bihar's revenue deficit rose from 0.04 per cent to 0.25 per cent of GSDP after the audit. Its fiscal deficit, already exceeding the prescribed target, climbed further too, from 4.16 per cent per the Finance Accounts to 4.37 per cent on a post-audit basis.

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has found seven states with off-budget borrowing, incorrectly classified expenditure, untransferred cesses and other unpaid obligations to make their budget look healthier than reality. The real financial position of these states was worse than what the official numbers showed. The report found that Maharashtra and West Bengal seem to have managed to keep their fiscal deficits within their respective limits in 2024-25. Meanwhile, the revenue deficit of Bihar increased nearly sevenfold after audit adjustments, and Chhattisgarh’s doubled. In addition, Gujarat retained a revenue surplus; however, it was almost Rs 12,000 crore smaller than its originally indicated Finance Accounts. Fiscal deficit of seven states Maharashtra was found to have a fiscal deficit of Rs 1,24,208.74 crore, marking 2.74 per cent of its gross state domestic product, or GSDP. The Maharashtra report of the CAG increased the deficit by Rs 20,717.72 crore to Rs 1,44,926.46 crore, showing 3.20 per cent of GSDP. The biggest adjustment rose from Rs 18,440 crore borrowed during 2024-25 through the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation. The loans carried a state guarantee, and their principal and interest were supposed to be met through budgetary provisions. Bihar's Finance Accounts showed a revenue deficit of just Rs 357.38 crore, but the CAG recalculated this figure to Rs 2,500.81 crore in its Bihar report. This revision stemmed from revenue expenditure wrongly booked as capital expenditure, along with shortfalls or non-transfers of funds to the National Pension System, Single Nodal Agency accounts, and funds meant for construction workers, road safety, and mineral exploration. As a result, Bihar's revenue deficit rose from 0.04 per cent to 0.25 per cent of GSDP after the audit. Its fiscal deficit, already exceeding the prescribed target, climbed further too, from 4.16 per cent per the Finance Accounts to 4.37 per cent on a post-audit basis. Also read: UP gangster Atiq Ahmed's son, on way to meet jailed brother, killed in road accident in Jhansi Chhattisgarh had reported a revenue deficit of Rs 5,099.47 crore, which the CAG revised upward to Rs 10,245.83 crore. This change was mainly driven by Rs 1,234.79 crore in revenue expenditure misclassified as capital expenditure, plus Rs 3,912.32 crore in off-budget borrowing repayments that were recorded as capital spending. Gujarat's Finance Accounts had shown a revenue surplus of Rs 18,942.94 crore, but CAG adjustments cut this down to Rs 7,013.97 crore, a drop of Rs 11,928.97 crore, or nearly 63 per cent. West Bengal had reported a fiscal deficit of Rs 61,924 crore, or 3.41 per cent of GSDP, staying within its 3.50 percent limit. However, once untransferred cess, the non-recoupment of the Contingency Fund, and other adjustments were factored in, the CAG's post-audit figure rose to Rs 63,739.23 crore, or 3.51 per cent of GSDP. On the other hand, the CAG raised Karnataka's revenue deficit from Rs 20,834 crore to Rs 22,843 crore, citing misclassified capital expenditure and unpaid interest. Kerala's fiscal deficit rose from Rs 48,248.14 crore (3.86 per cent of GSDP) to Rs 48,510.20 crore (3.89 per cent). The audit flagged Rs 39,230.33 crore in off-budget borrowings via KIIFB and KSSPL, excluded from Kerala's reported Rs 4.46 lakh crore liabilities (35.71 per cent of GSDP); including them would push the ratio to 38.86 per cent.

Bihar's revenue deficit rose from 0.04 per cent to 0.25 per cent of GSDP after the audit. Its fiscal deficit, already exceeding the prescribed target, climbed further too, from 4.16 per cent per the Finance Accounts to 4.37 per cent on a post-audit basis.

Seven states’ revenue deficits higher than reported, CAG finds; Bihar up 7x, Chhattisgarh doubles

Every month, we make an investment from our earned salary in SIP, fixed deposit, gold, or equities, medical insurance and other national pension schemes to secure our future. Would you set aside Rs 100 or Rs 200 a month if that money could help educate a child, skill a young job seeker, support a rural entrepreneur, or improve healthcare for underserved communities? Most of us, at one time or another, have felt the urge to support someone in our lives, perhaps a domestic worker trying to fund her children's education, a security guard putting in long hours to provide for his family, or a promising student who just needs a fair shot. But between EMIs, household bills, and other financial obligations, we always think that real impact requires a large financial outlay. Yet what if modest, affordable contributions, directed through trustworthy and transparent platforms, could add up to create meaningful, lasting social change? As we know, over the past few years India has seen an unprecedented rise in retail investing. Millions of first-time investors are seen getting quite comfortable with digital investing and long-term wealth creation. In order to create measurable social impact through transparent regulated platforms, now Indians can easily invest in the Social Stock Exchange (SSE).<h2>What is Social Stock Exchange (SSE)?</h2>It is an electronic fund-raising platform that brings together social enterprises and donors towards the realisation of a social welfare objective through accessible, transparent opportunities for underserved communities, fostering economic empowerment and growth through seamless integration with NSE and BSE." Unlike traditional donations, the Social Stock Exchange (SSE) brings governance, disclosure, accountability, and impact to eligible non-profit organisations. It allows citizens to support authenticated organisations covering sectors like education, employability, healthcare, women empowerment, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience.<h2>How is SSE redefining retail investors?</h2>Ramesh Daswani, CEO, Light of Life Trust, stated that Social Stock Exchange (SSE) gives an opportunity to invest not only in organisations, but also in solutions. Citizens can also participate in a transparent and accountable ecosystem while supporting critical areas, providing purposeful participation. "Traditionally, we have measured the success of an investment by the financial returns it generates. The Social Stock Exchange challenges us to think differently. It gives citizens the opportunity to invest not only in organisations, but in solutions—and, ultimately, in the future of India. For the first time, ordinary citizens, retail investors, philanthropists and institutions can participate in a transparent and accountable ecosystem supporting critical areas such as education, healthcare, skilling and livelihoods. This is a significant shift from passive giving to purposeful participation," Ramesh Daswani said. "The Social Stock Exchange has the potential to transform the way India approaches philanthropy and social development. It can bring together capital, accountability and compassion, enabling citizens to become active nation-builders and partners in solving some of the country’s most pressing challenges. The true success of the Social Stock Exchange will not be measured merely by the funds raised or the number of investments made. It will be measured by the children who return to school, the young people who gain skills and livelihoods, the families whose lives are improved, and the communities that are transformed. In the world of conventional investments, success is measured in returns. On the Social Stock Exchange, the ultimate return is a life transformed," Ramesh Daswani added.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-did-india-turn-down-the-us-offer-for-f-35-fighter-jets-explained-1785757348908">Why did India turn down the US offer for F-35 fighter jets? EXPLAINED</a> Highlighting India's strong culture of investing, Dr Ketan Deshpande, Founder &amp; Chairman of FUEL (Friends Union for Energising Lives), said, "India has built a strong culture of investing, with over 23 crore demat accounts reflecting the growing confidence of retail investors in the country's financial markets. At the same time, Indian companies have invested over Rs 34,900 crore in CSR in FY 2023–24, demonstrating the country's commitment to social development. The next step is to connect these two ecosystems." Deshpande added that the Social Stock Exchange offers a transparent and trustworthy way for retail investors to assist verified non-profit organisations working across education, healthcare, skilling, livelihoods, and other critical sectors. Even if just a small share of India's retail investors get involved, it could free up substantial funding for the social sector. In effect, the Social Stock Exchange could turn ordinary citizens from return-seeking investors into active contributors to nation-building. Anuja Kishore, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer of Lighthouse Communities Foundation, highlighted that India is a diverse country with complex social challenges; however, it is also marked as one of the world's most compassionate societies, having a longer tradition of giving. He added that currently, with nearly 22 crore demat accounts, there is an unprecedented opportunity to democratise philanthropy by allowing millions of citizens to participate in creating measurable social impact. "Investors must know that no problem can be solved by a single institution, whether it's government, a private company or an NGO, and the fact that giving is an important civic responsibility. The SSE enables retail investors to collectively contribute to large-scale social missions that would otherwise be beyond the capacity of any one individual to fund. For example, interventions such as building youth aspirations, strengthening city-wide livelihood ecosystems or creating pathways to employment often require investments running into lakhs and crores. Through SSE, like-minded citizens can pool their contributions on a transparency-and-regulation-first platform, and enable credible, mission-driven organisations and programs. This is driven by their choice, and citizens become active participants in nation building," she said. "Additionally, over time, SSE has the potential to strengthen trust in the social sector, promote evidence-based giving, and generate value for both investors and NGOs. To realise this vision, however, we must build awareness about the SSE platform and the significance of social return on investment, beyond the narrative of donations to causes," Kishore added.<h2>Make citizens nation builders</h2>Nixon Joseph, Group Executive Director, DEVI Sansthan, underscored that SSE has the potential to do something equally transformative, democratising social impact. This helps ordinary citizens to become nation builders by supporting credible, transparent, and accountable non-profit organisations working in education, healthcare, skilling, livelihoods, and other critical development areas. "India has successfully democratized wealth creation by bringing millions of retail investors into the capital markets. The Social Stock Exchange (SSE) has the potential to do something equally transformative; it can democratise social impact. Every investment becomes an opportunity to create measurable social change alongside financial participation in nation-building," Joseph said. "The SSE bridges the trust gap by ensuring regulatory oversight, transparency, and impact reporting. It empowers citizens to move beyond charity and become informed contributors to India’s development journey. If India’s growth story is to be truly inclusive, the Social Stock Exchange can enable every retail investor to participate not just in building wealth, but in building the nation itself," she added.

The SSE brings governance, disclosure, accountability, and impact to eligible non-profit organisations. It allows citizens to support authenticated organisations covering sectors like education, employability, healthcare, women's empowerment, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience.

Every month, we make an investment from our earned salary in SIP, fixed deposit, gold, or equities, medical insurance and other national pension schemes to secure our future. Would you set aside Rs 100 or Rs 200 a month if that money could help educate a child, skill a young job seeker, support a rural entrepreneur, or improve healthcare for underserved communities? Most of us, at one time or another, have felt the urge to support someone in our lives, perhaps a domestic worker trying to fund her children's education, a security guard putting in long hours to provide for his family, or a promising student who just needs a fair shot. But between EMIs, household bills, and other financial obligations, we always think that real impact requires a large financial outlay. Yet what if modest, affordable contributions, directed through trustworthy and transparent platforms, could add up to create meaningful, lasting social change? As we know, over the past few years India has seen an unprecedented rise in retail investing. Millions of first-time investors are seen getting quite comfortable with digital investing and long-term wealth creation. In order to create measurable social impact through transparent regulated platforms, now Indians can easily invest in the Social Stock Exchange (SSE). What is Social Stock Exchange (SSE)? It is an electronic fund-raising platform that brings together social enterprises and donors towards the realisation of a social welfare objective through accessible, transparent opportunities for underserved communities, fostering economic empowerment and growth through seamless integration with NSE and BSE." Unlike traditional donations, the Social Stock Exchange (SSE) brings governance, disclosure, accountability, and impact to eligible non-profit organisations. It allows citizens to support authenticated organisations covering sectors like education, employability, healthcare, women empowerment, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience. How is SSE redefining retail investors? Ramesh Daswani, CEO, Light of Life Trust, stated that Social Stock Exchange (SSE) gives an opportunity to invest not only in organisations, but also in solutions. Citizens can also participate in a transparent and accountable ecosystem while supporting critical areas, providing purposeful participation. "Traditionally, we have measured the success of an investment by the financial returns it generates. The Social Stock Exchange challenges us to think differently. It gives citizens the opportunity to invest not only in organisations, but in solutions—and, ultimately, in the future of India. For the first time, ordinary citizens, retail investors, philanthropists and institutions can participate in a transparent and accountable ecosystem supporting critical areas such as education, healthcare, skilling and livelihoods. This is a significant shift from passive giving to purposeful participation," Ramesh Daswani said. "The Social Stock Exchange has the potential to transform the way India approaches philanthropy and social development. It can bring together capital, accountability and compassion, enabling citizens to become active nation-builders and partners in solving some of the country’s most pressing challenges. The true success of the Social Stock Exchange will not be measured merely by the funds raised or the number of investments made. It will be measured by the children who return to school, the young people who gain skills and livelihoods, the families whose lives are improved, and the communities that are transformed. In the world of conventional investments, success is measured in returns. On the Social Stock Exchange, the ultimate return is a life transformed," Ramesh Daswani added. Also read: Why did India turn down the US offer for F-35 fighter jets? EXPLAINED Highlighting India's strong culture of investing, Dr Ketan Deshpande, Founder & Chairman of FUEL (Friends Union for Energising Lives), said, "India has built a strong culture of investing, with over 23 crore demat accounts reflecting the growing confidence of retail investors in the country's financial markets. At the same time, Indian companies have invested over Rs 34,900 crore in CSR in FY 2023–24, demonstrating the country's commitment to social development. The next step is to connect these two ecosystems." Deshpande added that the Social Stock Exchange offers a transparent and trustworthy way for retail investors to assist verified non-profit organisations working across education, healthcare, skilling, livelihoods, and other critical sectors. Even if just a small share of India's retail investors get involved, it could free up substantial funding for the social sector. In effect, the Social Stock Exchange could turn ordinary citizens from return-seeking investors into active contributors to nation-building. Anuja Kishore, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer of Lighthouse Communities Foundation, highlighted that India is a diverse country with complex social challenges; however, it is also marked as one of the world's most compassionate societies, having a longer tradition of giving. He added that currently, with nearly 22 crore demat accounts, there is an unprecedented opportunity to democratise philanthropy by allowing millions of citizens to participate in creating measurable social impact. "Investors must know that no problem can be solved by a single institution, whether it's government, a private company or an NGO, and the fact that giving is an important civic responsibility. The SSE enables retail investors to collectively contribute to large-scale social missions that would otherwise be beyond the capacity of any one individual to fund. For example, interventions such as building youth aspirations, strengthening city-wide livelihood ecosystems or creating pathways to employment often require investments running into lakhs and crores. Through SSE, like-minded citizens can pool their contributions on a transparency-and-regulation-first platform, and enable credible, mission-driven organisations and programs. This is driven by their choice, and citizens become active participants in nation building," she said. "Additionally, over time, SSE has the potential to strengthen trust in the social sector, promote evidence-based giving, and generate value for both investors and NGOs. To realise this vision, however, we must build awareness about the SSE platform and the significance of social return on investment, beyond the narrative of donations to causes," Kishore added. Make citizens nation builders Nixon Joseph, Group Executive Director, DEVI Sansthan, underscored that SSE has the potential to do something equally transformative, democratising social impact. This helps ordinary citizens to become nation builders by supporting credible, transparent, and accountable non-profit organisations working in education, healthcare, skilling, livelihoods, and other critical development areas. "India has successfully democratized wealth creation by bringing millions of retail investors into the capital markets. The Social Stock Exchange (SSE) has the potential to do something equally transformative; it can democratise social impact. Every investment becomes an opportunity to create measurable social change alongside financial participation in nation-building," Joseph said. "The SSE bridges the trust gap by ensuring regulatory oversight, transparency, and impact reporting. It empowers citizens to move beyond charity and become informed contributors to India’s development journey. If India’s growth story is to be truly inclusive, the Social Stock Exchange can enable every retail investor to participate not just in building wealth, but in building the nation itself," she added.

The SSE brings governance, disclosure, accountability, and impact to eligible non-profit organisations. It allows citizens to support authenticated organisations covering sectors like education, employability, healthcare, women's empowerment, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience.

Beyond returns: Can Social Stock Exchange (SSE) turn retail investors into nation builders?

The Trump administration has refunded around $100 billion in tariffs collected from importers after the US Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that President Donald Trump's tariffs were illegal and that he had exceeded his authority in imposing a broad set of trade duties under emergency powers.According to AFP, Court filings submitted on Tuesday (Aug 4) show the refunds account for roughly 60 per cent of the approximately $166 billion collected under tariffs imposed using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The refunded money has been returned to importers that had paid the duties.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-says-sheikh-hasina-s-india-media-appearance-hurt-ties-calls-it-an-affront-to-sovereignty-1785977377689">'Affront to our sovereignty': Bangladesh slams India over Sheikh Hasina's Delhi press conference</a><h2>Supreme Court dealt major blow to Trump's tariff strategy</h2>After returning to the White House, Trump relied on the IEEPA to impose sweeping tariffs on multiple US trading partners, arguing they were necessary to address national emergencies.However, the Supreme Court ruled in February that the president had overstepped the authority granted under the law, significantly limiting his ability to use emergency powers to impose tariffs.The decision forced the administration to begin refunding duties collected under the invalidated measures.The ruling did not affect Trump's sector-specific tariffs, which were imposed under different legal authorities and remain in force.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-strait-of-hormuz-remains-open-despite-unwarranted-iranian-aggression-as-report-suggest-deal-to-reopen-vital-waterway-close-1785897369267">US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as reports suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close</a><h2>Over $128 billion in refunds being processed</h2>According to Tuesday's court filing, a US Customs and Border Protection official said that, as of July 31, the agency had accepted about $128.68 billion in potential and certified refund claims for processing.Of that amount, roughly $100 billion had already been processed and forwarded to the US Treasury Department for payment to eligible importers. The remaining certified claims are still being processed.<h2>Fresh tariffs face new legal scrutiny</h2>Since the Supreme Court ruling, the Trump administration has sought to restore tariffs through alternative legal mechanisms, announcing new duties on dozens of trading partners.Those measures have also triggered fresh legal challenges, setting the stage for another round of court battles over the scope of presidential authority in US trade policy.

The Trump administration has refunded about $100 billion in tariffs after the US Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing broad trade duties under emergency powers. More refund claims worth over $128 billion are still being processed.

The Trump administration has refunded around $100 billion in tariffs collected from importers after the US Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that President Donald Trump's tariffs were illegal and that he had exceeded his authority in imposing a broad set of trade duties under emergency powers. According to AFP, Court filings submitted on Tuesday (Aug 4) show the refunds account for roughly 60 per cent of the approximately $166 billion collected under tariffs imposed using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The refunded money has been returned to importers that had paid the duties. Also read | 'Affront to our sovereignty': Bangladesh slams India over Sheikh Hasina's Delhi press conference Supreme Court dealt major blow to Trump's tariff strategy After returning to the White House, Trump relied on the IEEPA to impose sweeping tariffs on multiple US trading partners, arguing they were necessary to address national emergencies. However, the Supreme Court ruled in February that the president had overstepped the authority granted under the law, significantly limiting his ability to use emergency powers to impose tariffs. The decision forced the administration to begin refunding duties collected under the invalidated measures. The ruling did not affect Trump's sector-specific tariffs, which were imposed under different legal authorities and remain in force. Also read | US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as reports suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close Over $128 billion in refunds being processed According to Tuesday's court filing, a US Customs and Border Protection official said that, as of July 31, the agency had accepted about $128.68 billion in potential and certified refund claims for processing. Of that amount, roughly $100 billion had already been processed and forwarded to the US Treasury Department for payment to eligible importers. The remaining certified claims are still being processed. Fresh tariffs face new legal scrutiny Since the Supreme Court ruling, the Trump administration has sought to restore tariffs through alternative legal mechanisms, announcing new duties on dozens of trading partners. Those measures have also triggered fresh legal challenges, setting the stage for another round of court battles over the scope of presidential authority in US trade policy.

The Trump administration has refunded about $100 billion in tariffs after the US Supreme Court ruled that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority by imposing broad trade duties under emergency powers. More refund claims worth over $128 billion are still being processed.

Trump administration refunds $100 billion in tariffs after Supreme Court ruling

The Enforcement Directorate is investigating 32 bank fraud cases involving 54 accused who have left the country, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday (Aug 4).In a written reply, Chaudhary said the cases are being probed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, and that the agency has taken several steps to trace and act against the absconding accused. These include issuing Red Corner and Blue Corner notices, beginning proceedings under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, and seeking extradition from foreign countries.<h2>Nine declared fugitive economic offenders</h2>According to the minister, FEOA proceedings have been initiated against 27 accused. Courts have so far declared nine of them as Fugitive Economic Offenders, leading to the confiscation of assets worth Rs 840.68 crore.He added that extradition proceedings are underway against 18 accused. Chaudhary also said the ED has attached assets worth Rs 35,166.28 crore under PMLA, of which assets valued at Rs 15,184.19 crore have already been confiscated.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rbi-holds-repo-rate-at-5-25-retains-neutral-stance-amid-inflation-risks-1785905306227">RBI holds repo rate at 5.25%, retains neutral stance amid inflation risks</a><h2>Unclaimed deposits cross Rs 62,683 crore</h2>In another reply, the minister said unclaimed deposits of public sector bank customers, which were transferred to the RBI-managed Depositor Education and Awareness Fund, stood at Rs 62,683.19 crore as of June 30, 2026.He said the government and the Reserve Bank of India have introduced several measures to help legitimate account holders recover these deposits more easily and to prevent a further build-up in unclaimed balances.<h2>Insurance complaints tracked on Bima Bharosa</h2>Chaudhary also gave details on complaints in the insurance sector, saying the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) monitors grievances related to mis-selling, unfair business practices and claim disputes, including disagreements over policy terms and exclusions.These complaints are tracked through the Bima Bharosa portal, where policyholders can file and monitor their grievances.According to the data available on the portal, 28,789 complaints related to unfair business practices, including mis-selling, were reported during 2025-26.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/should-not-be-bullied-cjp-says-movement-will-expand-beyond-protests-rules-out-becoming-political-party-for-now-1785891897835">'Should not be bullied': CJP says movement will expand beyond protests. Politics, or something bigger?</a><h2>Forex reserves remain comfortable</h2>On foreign exchange reserves, the minister said changes in the reserves are influenced by several factors, including the Reserve Bank of India's buying and selling of foreign currency, income from reserve investments, external aid received by the central government and valuation changes in reserve assets.He added that the rupee is determined by market forces and is not managed within a fixed target or band, though the RBI keeps a close watch on the foreign exchange market and steps in when there is excessive volatility. Chaudhary also said the RBI sold $97.13 billion between February and May 2026.He said India's foreign exchange reserves remain comfortable by standard reserve adequacy measures. As of July 10, 2026, they were sufficient to cover 10.3 months of goods imports. At the end of March 2026, the country's short-term debt, on an original maturity basis, stood at 21.6 per cent of the foreign exchange reserves.

The Enforcement Directorate is investigating 32 bank fraud cases involving 54 accused who have fled India, with extradition proceedings underway against 18. The government also said assets worth over ₹35,166 crore have been attached under the PMLA.

The Enforcement Directorate is investigating 32 bank fraud cases involving 54 accused who have left the country, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday (Aug 4). In a written reply, Chaudhary said the cases are being probed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, and that the agency has taken several steps to trace and act against the absconding accused. These include issuing Red Corner and Blue Corner notices, beginning proceedings under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018, and seeking extradition from foreign countries. Nine declared fugitive economic offenders According to the minister, FEOA proceedings have been initiated against 27 accused. Courts have so far declared nine of them as Fugitive Economic Offenders, leading to the confiscation of assets worth Rs 840.68 crore. He added that extradition proceedings are underway against 18 accused. Chaudhary also said the ED has attached assets worth Rs 35,166.28 crore under PMLA, of which assets valued at Rs 15,184.19 crore have already been confiscated. Also read | RBI holds repo rate at 5.25%, retains neutral stance amid inflation risks Unclaimed deposits cross Rs 62,683 crore In another reply, the minister said unclaimed deposits of public sector bank customers, which were transferred to the RBI-managed Depositor Education and Awareness Fund, stood at Rs 62,683.19 crore as of June 30, 2026. He said the government and the Reserve Bank of India have introduced several measures to help legitimate account holders recover these deposits more easily and to prevent a further build-up in unclaimed balances. Insurance complaints tracked on Bima Bharosa Chaudhary also gave details on complaints in the insurance sector, saying the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) monitors grievances related to mis-selling, unfair business practices and claim disputes, including disagreements over policy terms and exclusions. These complaints are tracked through the Bima Bharosa portal, where policyholders can file and monitor their grievances. According to the data available on the portal, 28,789 complaints related to unfair business practices, including mis-selling, were reported during 2025-26. Also read | 'Should not be bullied': CJP says movement will expand beyond protests. Politics, or something bigger? Forex reserves remain comfortable On foreign exchange reserves, the minister said changes in the reserves are influenced by several factors, including the Reserve Bank of India's buying and selling of foreign currency, income from reserve investments, external aid received by the central government and valuation changes in reserve assets. He added that the rupee is determined by market forces and is not managed within a fixed target or band, though the RBI keeps a close watch on the foreign exchange market and steps in when there is excessive volatility. Chaudhary also said the RBI sold $97.13 billion between February and May 2026. He said India's foreign exchange reserves remain comfortable by standard reserve adequacy measures. As of July 10, 2026, they were sufficient to cover 10.3 months of goods imports. At the end of March 2026, the country's short-term debt, on an original maturity basis, stood at 21.6 per cent of the foreign exchange reserves.

The Enforcement Directorate is investigating 32 bank fraud cases involving 54 accused who have fled India, with extradition proceedings underway against 18. The government also said assets worth over ₹35,166 crore have been attached under the PMLA.

Government reveals scale of bank fraud: 54 accused fled India, ED launches global hunt

The Trump administration is stepping up oversight of advanced artificial intelligence following reports from OpenAI and Anthropic that their autonomous AI agents exceeded their intended limits during testing. On Tuesday (Aug 4), White House officials met representatives from Meta, Anthropic, Google, OpenAI and Nvidia to discuss a newly completed ‘voluntary cybersecurity testing framework’ for frontier AI models. While details are not out, the framework reportedly follows President Donald Trump’s June 2 executive order, Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security, which allows the government to review the most capable AI models up to 30 days before public release to assess cyber risks. The order explicitly avoids mandatory licensing, permits or pre-clearance. What's the future of government intervention into AI agents?<h2>Cybersecurity testing takes centre stage</h2>According to reports in the US media, the framework focuses on AI cyber capabilities like the agents' ability to identify software vulnerabilities or carry out hacking. Developers can voluntarily submit qualifying models, which may be shared with agencies such as the Treasury Department, NSA, CISA and the National Security Council for classified testing. The government has not disclosed testing standards, reporting requirements or model thresholds. Open-weight and open-source models, including Meta’s Llama and Nvidia’s Nemotron, are excluded.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/openai-rogue-ai-agent-hacked-rival-platform-by-itself-1784744829993/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/openai-rogue-ai-agent-hacked-rival-platform-by-itself-1784744829993/embed</a><h2>Significance of White House meeting of AI firm honchos</h2>Organised by the Office of the National Cyber Director, the meeting came days after reports that OpenAI and Anthropic AI agents escaped controlled testing environments and breached external systems. More about that later.White House officials said the voluntary framework is complete and discussions with industry on implementation are underway. &nbsp;White House spokeswoman Liz Huston said, “The United States leads the world in AI innovation and President Trump’s successful approach will keep it that way.”OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane called it “an important step toward closing the gap between innovation and governance” through “a clear, credible, national framework” for evaluating advanced AI systems.Officials, including National Cyber Director Sean Cairncross, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, have been stressing cooperation with industry rather than heavy regulation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-openai-s-scary-agent-anthropic-s-claude-goes-rogue-ai-gains-unauthorised-real-world-access-during-testing-1785475339558">After OpenAI's 'scary' agent, Anthropic's Claude goes rogue; AI gains unauthorised 'real-world' access during testing</a><h2>Rogue AI incidents drive scrutiny</h2>In July, an OpenAI agent escaped a testing environment, compromised systems at Hugging Face, affected Modal Labs and other infrastructure, and carried out thousands of actions after exploiting a previously unknown vulnerability. OpenAI later identified additional breakout incidents.Anthropic disclosed that AI systems linked to its Claude/Mythos models infiltrated networks at three companies during internal testing. In one case, an AI persuaded developers to install a poisoned software package that stole credentials.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/openai-s-ai-agent-gone-rogue-company-reveals-chilling-hack-at-startup-1784697608707">OpenAI’s AI agent gone rogue? Company reveals chilling hack at startup</a>The UK AI Security Institute (AISI) separately recorded two instances of unsanctioned behaviour by OpenAI’s GPT-5.6 Sol model. It also found 17 of 19 unsanctioned actions involved Anthropic’s Mythos 5. This included the creation of fake identities, inserting malicious GitHub code and attempting to deceive people into providing access or credentials.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/scary-rogue-ai-on-the-loose-openai-agent-hit-another-tech-firm-s-customer-suggests-report-1785292505727">'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report</a><h2>Is AI kill switch legislation next?</h2>The incidents have revived calls in Washington for AI “kill switch” legislation that would allow authorities or developers to rapidly disable AI systems posing serious cybersecurity or national security risks. Such a law has not been introduced yet, but lawmakers have floated the idea.The White House appears to favour voluntary testing, information-sharing and existing legal powers over mandatory regulation. But researchers, including METR, say repeated AI agent failures expose growing gaps in containment, liability and cybersecurity. This may eventually require stronger legal safeguards.

The Trump administration is advancing voluntary cybersecurity testing for frontier AI models. A White House meeting with AI firms came after OpenAI and Anthropic ‘rogue agent’ incidents reignited debate over AI oversight. A ‘kill switch’ law in the future won't be surprising



The Trump administration is stepping up oversight of advanced artificial intelligence following reports from OpenAI and Anthropic that their autonomous AI agents exceeded their intended limits during testing. On Tuesday (Aug 4), White House officials met representatives from Meta, Anthropic, Google, OpenAI and Nvidia to discuss a newly completed ‘voluntary cybersecurity testing framework’ for frontier AI models. While details are not out, the framework reportedly follows President Donald Trump’s June 2 executive order, Promoting Advanced Artificial Intelligence Innovation and Security, which allows the government to review the most capable AI models up to 30 days before public release to assess cyber risks. The order explicitly avoids mandatory licensing, permits or pre-clearance. What's the future of government intervention into AI agents? Cybersecurity testing takes centre stage According to reports in the US media, the framework focuses on AI cyber capabilities like the agents' ability to identify software vulnerabilities or carry out hacking. Developers can voluntarily submit qualifying models, which may be shared with agencies such as the Treasury Department, NSA, CISA and the National Security Council for classified testing. The government has not disclosed testing standards, reporting requirements or model thresholds. Open-weight and open-source models, including Meta’s Llama and Nvidia’s Nemotron, are excluded. https://www.wionews.com/videos/openai-rogue-ai-agent-hacked-rival-platform-by-itself-1784744829993/embed Significance of White House meeting of AI firm honchos Organised by the Office of the National Cyber Director, the meeting came days after reports that OpenAI and Anthropic AI agents escaped controlled testing environments and breached external systems. More about that later. White House officials said the voluntary framework is complete and discussions with industry on implementation are underway. White House spokeswoman Liz Huston said, “The United States leads the world in AI innovation and President Trump’s successful approach will keep it that way.” OpenAI Chief Global Affairs Officer Chris Lehane called it “an important step toward closing the gap between innovation and governance” through “a clear, credible, national framework” for evaluating advanced AI systems. Officials, including National Cyber Director Sean Cairncross, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, have been stressing cooperation with industry rather than heavy regulation. Also read: After OpenAI's 'scary' agent, Anthropic's Claude goes rogue; AI gains unauthorised 'real-world' access during testing Rogue AI incidents drive scrutiny In July, an OpenAI agent escaped a testing environment, compromised systems at Hugging Face, affected Modal Labs and other infrastructure, and carried out thousands of actions after exploiting a previously unknown vulnerability. OpenAI later identified additional breakout incidents. Anthropic disclosed that AI systems linked to its Claude/Mythos models infiltrated networks at three companies during internal testing. In one case, an AI persuaded developers to install a poisoned software package that stole credentials. Also read: OpenAI’s AI agent gone rogue? Company reveals chilling hack at startup The UK AI Security Institute (AISI) separately recorded two instances of unsanctioned behaviour by OpenAI’s GPT-5.6 Sol model. It also found 17 of 19 unsanctioned actions involved Anthropic’s Mythos 5. This included the creation of fake identities, inserting malicious GitHub code and attempting to deceive people into providing access or credentials. Also read: 'Scary' Rogue AI on the loose? OpenAI agent hit another tech firm's customer, suggests report Is AI kill switch legislation next? The incidents have revived calls in Washington for AI “kill switch” legislation that would allow authorities or developers to rapidly disable AI systems posing serious cybersecurity or national security risks. Such a law has not been introduced yet, but lawmakers have floated the idea. The White House appears to favour voluntary testing, information-sharing and existing legal powers over mandatory regulation. But researchers, including METR, say repeated AI agent failures expose growing gaps in containment, liability and cybersecurity. This may eventually require stronger legal safeguards.

The Trump administration is advancing voluntary cybersecurity testing for frontier AI models. A White House meeting with AI firms came after OpenAI and Anthropic ‘rogue agent’ incidents reignited debate over AI oversight. A ‘kill switch’ law in the future won't be surprising&nbsp;

Time for AI kill switch? What White House meeting,  legislation talk, and govt pre-testing framework mean for  intervention into ‘rogue’ AI agents

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Wednesday (Aug 5) kept the benchmark repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent, while retaining its neutral policy stance, signalling caution amid rising inflationary pressures.Announcing the MPC's decision, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the committee had unanimously decided to leave the policy rate unchanged. The central bank flagged that headline inflation has moved above its target and is expected to remain elevated in the near term, with food and fuel prices emerging as the key drivers of price pressures.<h2>Key highlights</h2><ul><li>Repo rate unchanged at 5.25%</li><li>Policy stance retained as “neutral”</li><li>Headline inflation has risen above the RBI's target</li><li>Food and fuel prices are adding to inflationary pressures</li><li>Headline inflation expected to remain elevated in the near term</li></ul><h2>Inflation remains above target</h2>The central bank flagged rising inflation as a key concern, noting that headline inflation has moved above the RBI's target. Governor Malhotra said food and fuel prices continue to add pressure to inflation, with headline inflation expected to remain elevated in the near term.The RBI projected consumer price inflation at 5 per cent for the current financial year, while core inflation is expected to average 4.3 per cent.<h2>Growth outlook revised upward</h2>Despite inflation concerns, the RBI marginally raised its growth forecast for the current fiscal year. The central bank now expects real GDP growth at 6.7 per cent, an increase of 10 basis points from its previous estimate, reflecting resilience in domestic economic activity.<h2>Global risks remain</h2>The RBI cautioned that external uncertainties continue to pose risks to India's growth trajectory.&nbsp;It identified the ongoing conflict in West Asia, volatility in international financial markets and weather-related disruptions as key factors that could weigh on economic activity in the months ahead.By maintaining both the repo rate and its neutral stance, the central bank indicated it remains focused on balancing inflation control with sustaining economic growth as global and domestic uncertainties persist.

The RBI has kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and retained its neutral policy stance, citing rising inflation driven by food and fuel prices. The central bank warned that headline inflation has moved above its target and is likely to remain elevated in the near term.

The Reserve Bank of India's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) on Wednesday (Aug 5) kept the benchmark repo rate unchanged at 5.25 per cent, while retaining its neutral policy stance, signalling caution amid rising inflationary pressures. Announcing the MPC's decision, RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the committee had unanimously decided to leave the policy rate unchanged. The central bank flagged that headline inflation has moved above its target and is expected to remain elevated in the near term, with food and fuel prices emerging as the key drivers of price pressures. Key highlights Repo rate unchanged at 5.25% Policy stance retained as “neutral” Headline inflation has risen above the RBI's target Food and fuel prices are adding to inflationary pressures Headline inflation expected to remain elevated in the near term Inflation remains above target The central bank flagged rising inflation as a key concern, noting that headline inflation has moved above the RBI's target. Governor Malhotra said food and fuel prices continue to add pressure to inflation, with headline inflation expected to remain elevated in the near term. The RBI projected consumer price inflation at 5 per cent for the current financial year, while core inflation is expected to average 4.3 per cent. Growth outlook revised upward Despite inflation concerns, the RBI marginally raised its growth forecast for the current fiscal year. The central bank now expects real GDP growth at 6.7 per cent, an increase of 10 basis points from its previous estimate, reflecting resilience in domestic economic activity. Global risks remain The RBI cautioned that external uncertainties continue to pose risks to India's growth trajectory. It identified the ongoing conflict in West Asia, volatility in international financial markets and weather-related disruptions as key factors that could weigh on economic activity in the months ahead. By maintaining both the repo rate and its neutral stance, the central bank indicated it remains focused on balancing inflation control with sustaining economic growth as global and domestic uncertainties persist.

The RBI has kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% and retained its neutral policy stance, citing rising inflation driven by food and fuel prices. The central bank warned that headline inflation has moved above its target and is likely to remain elevated in the near term.

RBI holds repo rate at 5.25%, retains neutral stance amid inflation risks

A powerful panel of the Indian Parliament asked some uncomfortable questions to representatives of some of the world's biggest social media companies. The context was the recent protests against exam paper leaks led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), the removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video, alleged algorithmic manipulation, and broader concerns about platform accountability. Representatives of Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, as well as those from Google, YouTube, X and Snapchat attended the meeting. Here is what happened:<h2>The Parliament committee was on regulating social and digital platforms</h2>The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology was chaired by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey. Its meeting was also attended by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary S Krishnan, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju, and other senior officials. The subject of the meeting held on Monday (Aug 3) was "Social and Digital Platforms and Their Regulation".<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-under-fire-as-panel-seeks-answers-over-pm-modi-video-takedown-1785825943604/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-under-fire-as-panel-seeks-answers-over-pm-modi-video-takedown-1785825943604/embed</a><h2>The removal of PM Modi's video came up for discussion</h2>The Prime Minister released a reel-style video on the night of 23 July addressing India's youth amid protests in Delhi and other cities over alleged examination paper leaks, including NEET-UG. The CJP-led agitation was demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who eventually resigned. Modi's video was briefly restricted or removed on Facebook for around five hours, from approximately 12.30 am to 5.00 am. Meta attributed the incident to a technical error and restored the video. MeitY had earlier described the explanation as "inadequate".At the Parliament committee hearing, members pressed Meta to fix responsibility beyond a company-level apology, according to media reports. The company was asked as to who authorised the removal of the PM's video and how such an error could occur with official content from the Prime Minister's office.The underlying question was whether this represented a serious systems failure, a flaw in Meta's moderation processes, or a deliberate act that resulted in the Prime Minister's official communication being taken down.Meta representatives expressed regret and indicated their readiness to apologise. Dubey sought a personal apology from Meta Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg. If the CEO does not apologise, Meta's safe harbour protection under Section 79 of India's Information Technology Act, 2000 should be withdrawn, Dubey reportedly recommended. The panel also sought a written reply from Meta within 10 days.<h2>Did tech giants amplify the viewership of CJP protest content?</h2>Dubey noted that the CJP had exceptionally high social media viewership. According to some media reports cited, its content generated up to 27 billion views across platforms. The figure exceeded the combined reach of content from major political parties. An anti-reservation forum also reportedly generated around 7 billion views.These figures were presented as possible evidence that the algorithms of social media platforms may be favouring newcomers, highly engaging content, or particular types of political material. Panel members sought an explanation of how such content achieved such extraordinary reach and whether platform recommendation systems played a role. The broader issue was the role of social media platforms during the protests, including the spread of deepfakes, morphed images and misleading content targeting the prime minister and Union ministers.Police cases have already been registered, and investigations are underway, in connection with some such content, including a case against Meta India's head in Hyderabad over allegedly objectionable posts.Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/why-did-meta-remove-pm-modi-s-facebook-video-on-paper-leaks-tech-giant-blames-technical-error-1785220710914"> Why did Meta remove PM Modi's Facebook video on paper leaks? Tech company blames 'technical error'</a><h2>Is there algorithmic bias in the recommendation systems of social media?</h2>The panel members questioned the platforms, particularly Meta, over alleged algorithmic bias.Among the issues raised were why objectionable material, including pornography, child sexual abuse material (CSAM), deepfake scams and content targeting women, often remained available while an official communication from the prime minister was removed.The tech giants were asked how their recommendation, ranking and amplification systems function, who oversees them, what safeguards exist against bias, and how content moderation decisions are reviewed.They also faced questions on whether political or ideological bias exists in their content moderation systems and what responsibilities platforms bear in matters affecting public order, elections and national security.Specifically, members questioned the capability of platform algorithms and artificial intelligence systems to detect deepfakes involving the Prime Minister and other public figures before they spread widely.MeitY has already summoned Meta's global team to discuss algorithmic processes, potential bias and the company's responsibilities relating to public order and compliance with Indian law.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-pm-fb-post-issue-meta-assures-rigorous-safeguards-for-posts-by-prominent-accounts-1785343588801">After PM FB post issue, Meta assures rigorous safeguards for posts by prominent accounts</a><h2>Foreign ownership of platforms and control over content</h2>Another issue discussed was the foreign ownership of major technology platforms and the extent to which content moderation decisions affecting Indian users are made outside India. There has been growing criticism that these companies do not adequately comply with Indian law despite earning substantial revenues from the country. Their handling of unlawful content, including cyber fraud, online harassment of women and other illegal material, was criticised as inadequate.Members also raised concerns that, in some instances, platforms had failed to respond promptly to official communications from Indian authorities, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and MeitY.<h2>Are social media platforms merely intermediaries?</h2>A key legal issue discussed was whether these platforms can continue to claim protection under the safe harbour provisions of Indian law. Under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, intermediaries receive limited immunity from liability for user-generated content, provided they comply with prescribed legal obligations and due diligence requirements.Some panel members argued that if platforms actively recommend, amplify, suppress or otherwise influence the visibility of content through algorithms, they cannot simply describe themselves as neutral intermediaries. Others maintained that the existing legal framework must be applied carefully to preserve free expression while ensuring accountability.Opposition members on the panel stressed that criticism of the government should not automatically be treated as anti-national and that democratic space for dissent must remain protected.However, the committee was largely unanimous on the need for stricter enforcement against unlawful content, greater transparency in content moderation and stronger accountability from social media platforms.&nbsp;

An Indian parliamentary panel questioned Meta, Google, X, YouTube and Snapchat over a number of issues regarding their alleged bias. Issues discussed include PM Modi's video removal, algorithmic bias, content moderation and social media accountability.



A powerful panel of the Indian Parliament asked some uncomfortable questions to representatives of some of the world's biggest social media companies. The context was the recent protests against exam paper leaks led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), the removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's video, alleged algorithmic manipulation, and broader concerns about platform accountability. Representatives of Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, as well as those from Google, YouTube, X and Snapchat attended the meeting. Here is what happened: The Parliament committee was on regulating social and digital platforms The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology was chaired by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey. Its meeting was also attended by Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Secretary S Krishnan, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju, and other senior officials. The subject of the meeting held on Monday (Aug 3) was "Social and Digital Platforms and Their Regulation". https://www.wionews.com/videos/meta-under-fire-as-panel-seeks-answers-over-pm-modi-video-takedown-1785825943604/embed The removal of PM Modi's video came up for discussion The Prime Minister released a reel-style video on the night of 23 July addressing India's youth amid protests in Delhi and other cities over alleged examination paper leaks, including NEET-UG. The CJP-led agitation was demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who eventually resigned. Modi's video was briefly restricted or removed on Facebook for around five hours, from approximately 12.30 am to 5.00 am. Meta attributed the incident to a technical error and restored the video. MeitY had earlier described the explanation as "inadequate". At the Parliament committee hearing, members pressed Meta to fix responsibility beyond a company-level apology, according to media reports. The company was asked as to who authorised the removal of the PM's video and how such an error could occur with official content from the Prime Minister's office. The underlying question was whether this represented a serious systems failure, a flaw in Meta's moderation processes, or a deliberate act that resulted in the Prime Minister's official communication being taken down. Meta representatives expressed regret and indicated their readiness to apologise. Dubey sought a personal apology from Meta Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg. If the CEO does not apologise, Meta's safe harbour protection under Section 79 of India's Information Technology Act, 2000 should be withdrawn, Dubey reportedly recommended. The panel also sought a written reply from Meta within 10 days. Did tech giants amplify the viewership of CJP protest content? Dubey noted that the CJP had exceptionally high social media viewership. According to some media reports cited, its content generated up to 27 billion views across platforms. The figure exceeded the combined reach of content from major political parties. An anti-reservation forum also reportedly generated around 7 billion views. These figures were presented as possible evidence that the algorithms of social media platforms may be favouring newcomers, highly engaging content, or particular types of political material. Panel members sought an explanation of how such content achieved such extraordinary reach and whether platform recommendation systems played a role. The broader issue was the role of social media platforms during the protests, including the spread of deepfakes, morphed images and misleading content targeting the prime minister and Union ministers. Police cases have already been registered, and investigations are underway, in connection with some such content, including a case against Meta India's head in Hyderabad over allegedly objectionable posts. Also read: Why did Meta remove PM Modi's Facebook video on paper leaks? Tech company blames 'technical error' Is there algorithmic bias in the recommendation systems of social media? The panel members questioned the platforms, particularly Meta, over alleged algorithmic bias. Among the issues raised were why objectionable material, including pornography, child sexual abuse material (CSAM), deepfake scams and content targeting women, often remained available while an official communication from the prime minister was removed. The tech giants were asked how their recommendation, ranking and amplification systems function, who oversees them, what safeguards exist against bias, and how content moderation decisions are reviewed. They also faced questions on whether political or ideological bias exists in their content moderation systems and what responsibilities platforms bear in matters affecting public order, elections and national security. Specifically, members questioned the capability of platform algorithms and artificial intelligence systems to detect deepfakes involving the Prime Minister and other public figures before they spread widely. MeitY has already summoned Meta's global team to discuss algorithmic processes, potential bias and the company's responsibilities relating to public order and compliance with Indian law. Also read: After PM FB post issue, Meta assures rigorous safeguards for posts by prominent accounts Foreign ownership of platforms and control over content Another issue discussed was the foreign ownership of major technology platforms and the extent to which content moderation decisions affecting Indian users are made outside India. There has been growing criticism that these companies do not adequately comply with Indian law despite earning substantial revenues from the country. Their handling of unlawful content, including cyber fraud, online harassment of women and other illegal material, was criticised as inadequate. Members also raised concerns that, in some instances, platforms had failed to respond promptly to official communications from Indian authorities, including the Ministry of Home Affairs and MeitY. Are social media platforms merely intermediaries? A key legal issue discussed was whether these platforms can continue to claim protection under the safe harbour provisions of Indian law. Under Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, intermediaries receive limited immunity from liability for user-generated content, provided they comply with prescribed legal obligations and due diligence requirements. Some panel members argued that if platforms actively recommend, amplify, suppress or otherwise influence the visibility of content through algorithms, they cannot simply describe themselves as neutral intermediaries. Others maintained that the existing legal framework must be applied carefully to preserve free expression while ensuring accountability. Opposition members on the panel stressed that criticism of the government should not automatically be treated as anti-national and that democratic space for dissent must remain protected. However, the committee was largely unanimous on the need for stricter enforcement against unlawful content, greater transparency in content moderation and stronger accountability from social media platforms.

An Indian parliamentary panel questioned Meta, Google, X, YouTube and Snapchat over a number of issues regarding their alleged bias. Issues discussed include PM Modi's video removal, algorithmic bias, content moderation and social media accountability.&nbsp;

What did the Indian Parliament panel ask Meta, Google, X and Snapchat? PM Modi's video removal, CJP protest, algorithm manipulation

New Delhi: The United States has authorised certain transactions related to Venezuela’s Petróleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) 2020 8.5% bond from 17 September 2026, a step that could ease financial dealings for Indian firms with long-standing ties to the South American country’s oil sector. Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA) is the state-owned oil and gas company of Venezuela and conducts exploration, production, refining, marketing, transportation, and export of oil, along with natural gas activities.&nbsp;The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the US Treasury issued General License 5Y on 3 August, further delaying the effectiveness of authorisations linked to the bond until that date. For years, successive general licences have postponed US persons’ ability to enforce bondholder rights over those shares, protecting the asset while broader sanctions remained in place.&nbsp;ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL), the overseas arm of India’s state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, stands to benefit. OVL holds significant interests in two Venezuelan oil projects: a 40% stake in the San Cristóbal field through the joint venture Petrolera Indovenezolana SA, and an 11% participating interest in the Petrocarabobo (Carabobo-1) project alongside partners including Repsol and Indian Oil Corporation.&nbsp;These investments, made more than a decade ago, have been severely constrained by US sanctions imposed during the Maduro era. OVL has reported hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid dividends, estimates range from around $600 million to as high as $900 million in recent reports, that could not be repatriated because of restrictions on financial transactions involving PDVSA. Operations at the fields have also been limited, with production far below potential.&nbsp;The latest licence forms part of a wider, gradual easing of Venezuela-related sanctions that began after the capture of former president Nicolás Maduro by US forces in January 2026 and the subsequent cooperation of the interim authorities under Delcy Rodríguez. Since then, OFAC has issued a series of general licences allowing established US entities broader dealings in Venezuelan-origin oil, diluents, and related services, while still keeping PDVSA itself under certain restrictions.&nbsp;Easier access to PDVSA-related financial instruments could simplify residual payments, restructuring discussions, or new commercial arrangements once the September date arrives. Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, concentrated in the Orinoco Belt where OVL’s projects are located. For India, which relies heavily on imported crude, Venezuela offers potential diversification of supply and a chance to recover long-pending returns on capital already invested.

ONGC Videsh Limited holds interests in two Venezuelan oil projects: a 40% stake in the San Cristóbal field through the joint venture Petrolera Indovenezolana SA, and an 11% participating interest in the Petrocarabobo (Carabobo-1) project with Repsol and Indian Oil Corporation as partners.

New Delhi: The United States has authorised certain transactions related to Venezuela’s Petróleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) 2020 8.5% bond from 17 September 2026, a step that could ease financial dealings for Indian firms with long-standing ties to the South American country’s oil sector. Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA) is the state-owned oil and gas company of Venezuela and conducts exploration, production, refining, marketing, transportation, and export of oil, along with natural gas activities. The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) at the US Treasury issued General License 5Y on 3 August, further delaying the effectiveness of authorisations linked to the bond until that date. For years, successive general licences have postponed US persons’ ability to enforce bondholder rights over those shares, protecting the asset while broader sanctions remained in place. ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL), the overseas arm of India’s state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, stands to benefit. OVL holds significant interests in two Venezuelan oil projects: a 40% stake in the San Cristóbal field through the joint venture Petrolera Indovenezolana SA, and an 11% participating interest in the Petrocarabobo (Carabobo-1) project alongside partners including Repsol and Indian Oil Corporation. These investments, made more than a decade ago, have been severely constrained by US sanctions imposed during the Maduro era. OVL has reported hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid dividends, estimates range from around $600 million to as high as $900 million in recent reports, that could not be repatriated because of restrictions on financial transactions involving PDVSA. Operations at the fields have also been limited, with production far below potential. The latest licence forms part of a wider, gradual easing of Venezuela-related sanctions that began after the capture of former president Nicolás Maduro by US forces in January 2026 and the subsequent cooperation of the interim authorities under Delcy Rodríguez. Since then, OFAC has issued a series of general licences allowing established US entities broader dealings in Venezuelan-origin oil, diluents, and related services, while still keeping PDVSA itself under certain restrictions. Easier access to PDVSA-related financial instruments could simplify residual payments, restructuring discussions, or new commercial arrangements once the September date arrives. Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, concentrated in the Orinoco Belt where OVL’s projects are located. For India, which relies heavily on imported crude, Venezuela offers potential diversification of supply and a chance to recover long-pending returns on capital already invested.

ONGC Videsh Limited holds interests in two Venezuelan oil projects: a 40% stake in the San Cristóbal field through the joint venture Petrolera Indovenezolana SA, and an 11% participating interest in the Petrocarabobo (Carabobo-1) project with Repsol and Indian Oil Corporation as partners.

US move on Venezuela oil bond could unlock gains for India’s energy companies

US and Japan intervened together last week to carry out a rare, coordinated yen buying to halt the slide of the Japanese currency. The yen slid to a fresh 40-year low, hitting 163.73 against the dollar before rebounding to around 157-158. It's the first joint intervention since the 2011 earthquake to weaken the yen and the first joint operation to buy yen since 1998. The US sold its own holdings of Euros from the US Treasury Exchange Stabilisation Fund to buy the yen.&nbsp;“They have a weakening yen, and they wanted a little bit of help. And we’re always there for Japan,” said Trump in response to a reporter's question about joint intervention. After the announcement, the Japanese yen surged as much as 1.4 per cent to hit a nearly three-month high of 155.20 per US dollar, compounding a 3.8 per cent surge over the two previous sessions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-pellet-gun-guidelines-jantar-mantar-protest-1785755099371">Supreme Court may frame guidelines on pellet gun use after Jantar Mantar protest</a><h2>Why its happening?</h2>The interest rate gap between Japan and the US has been driving the persistent weakness of the yen, hitting Japanese households with rising import costs. This has been a driving force for almost three decades, from 1999 to 2024, of yen carry trade, where Wall Street hedge funds would borrow yen and convert it to dollar-based assets and gain 4-5 per cent interest. This was the easiest way to make money. However, that gradually depreciated the value of the yen. It reached a peak in 2024 when the US Federal Reserve hiked rates aggressively, and Japan maintained neutral and negative interest rates. &nbsp;In July 2024, the Bank of Japan raised rates to 0.25 per cent, causing a sudden unwinding of the carry trade. &nbsp;The bigger worry for Washington and Tokyo is the bond market. Japan is the largest holder of US debt, roughly $1.15 trillion in US Treasuries. Analysts say the move aims to prevent spillovers from a sell-off in the yen and Japanese government bonds, which are adding pressure to already-rising US Treasury yields. US wants to prevent the weakening of the yen to prevent its trade deficit from widening. It does not want to risk Japan dumping US Treasuries, which will push the yields higher and widen its debt.However, analysts suggest the US and Japan are kicking the can down the road; they can't address this crisis without monetary policy change and fiscal discipline. The Japanese Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Japan are in a structural trap. If the BOJ raises interest rates to 2-3 per cent to match the US, the interest cost of Japan's debt will explode. Japan's public debt is over 200 per cent of its GDP; it will push the country into a debt spiral and freeze the domestic market. The most recent adjustment in June 2026 by the BOJ pushed the interest rate up to 1.00 per cent. But it is still negative compared to inflation, which is running near 2.5- 3 per cent. So investors are heavily penalised for holding cash in yen, and it forces them to move it into foreign dollar-based assets, keeping the pressure on the yen. Japan needs the Fed to slash interest rates to stabilise its yen, but Washington is too scared to do that amid a global energy crisis. So the US is keeping the yen on life support to keep its own economy from going into a debt spiral.&nbsp;

The US and Japan carried out a rare joint intervention to support the yen after it hit a 40-year low. Here's why the move matters and what comes next.

US and Japan intervened together last week to carry out a rare, coordinated yen buying to halt the slide of the Japanese currency. The yen slid to a fresh 40-year low, hitting 163.73 against the dollar before rebounding to around 157-158. It's the first joint intervention since the 2011 earthquake to weaken the yen and the first joint operation to buy yen since 1998. The US sold its own holdings of Euros from the US Treasury Exchange Stabilisation Fund to buy the yen. “They have a weakening yen, and they wanted a little bit of help. And we’re always there for Japan,” said Trump in response to a reporter's question about joint intervention. After the announcement, the Japanese yen surged as much as 1.4 per cent to hit a nearly three-month high of 155.20 per US dollar, compounding a 3.8 per cent surge over the two previous sessions. Also Read: Supreme Court may frame guidelines on pellet gun use after Jantar Mantar protest Why its happening? The interest rate gap between Japan and the US has been driving the persistent weakness of the yen, hitting Japanese households with rising import costs. This has been a driving force for almost three decades, from 1999 to 2024, of yen carry trade, where Wall Street hedge funds would borrow yen and convert it to dollar-based assets and gain 4-5 per cent interest. This was the easiest way to make money. However, that gradually depreciated the value of the yen. It reached a peak in 2024 when the US Federal Reserve hiked rates aggressively, and Japan maintained neutral and negative interest rates. In July 2024, the Bank of Japan raised rates to 0.25 per cent, causing a sudden unwinding of the carry trade. The bigger worry for Washington and Tokyo is the bond market. Japan is the largest holder of US debt, roughly $1.15 trillion in US Treasuries. Analysts say the move aims to prevent spillovers from a sell-off in the yen and Japanese government bonds, which are adding pressure to already-rising US Treasury yields. US wants to prevent the weakening of the yen to prevent its trade deficit from widening. It does not want to risk Japan dumping US Treasuries, which will push the yields higher and widen its debt. However, analysts suggest the US and Japan are kicking the can down the road; they can't address this crisis without monetary policy change and fiscal discipline. The Japanese Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Japan are in a structural trap. If the BOJ raises interest rates to 2-3 per cent to match the US, the interest cost of Japan's debt will explode. Japan's public debt is over 200 per cent of its GDP; it will push the country into a debt spiral and freeze the domestic market. The most recent adjustment in June 2026 by the BOJ pushed the interest rate up to 1.00 per cent. But it is still negative compared to inflation, which is running near 2.5- 3 per cent. So investors are heavily penalised for holding cash in yen, and it forces them to move it into foreign dollar-based assets, keeping the pressure on the yen. Japan needs the Fed to slash interest rates to stabilise its yen, but Washington is too scared to do that amid a global energy crisis. So the US is keeping the yen on life support to keep its own economy from going into a debt spiral.

The US and Japan carried out a rare joint intervention to support the yen after it hit a 40-year low. Here's why the move matters and what comes next.

Why the US and Japan jointly intervened to support the yen

The advent of peptide science has brought with it peptides with extremely targeted interactions with biological pathways. These include a Decapeptide-12 with a proposed function in pigmentation biology. It is a synthetic peptide which may be targeted to melanin synthesis mechanisms and is being evaluated as a research tool to better understand melanin synthesis molecular regulation. It has been speculated to have selective interactions with melanogenic pathways, and has been used as a valuable subject in peptide engineering, molecular biology and cellular signalling research.<h2>What are peptides?</h2>Peptides are short chains of amino acids, and are basic signalling molecules in biological systems. They are smaller and easier to manipulate, so they might be able to be engineered to bind to a specific receptor, enzyme or cellular pathway. This versatility has led to the increasing importance of synthetic peptides in the laboratory, where they are used to investigate biological processes and to develop new molecular models for scientific research.&nbsp;A synthetic peptide is one of these, known as Decapeptide-12. It consists of 10 amino acids that are designed to bind to the key regulators of melanogenesis (melanin production). It is thought that its structure may allow it to interact selectively with enzymes that are associated with pigmentation, notably tyrosinase, which has a major role in the conversion of the amino acid tyrosine to melanin.&nbsp;Tyrosinase has been consistently found to be one of the important control points in pigmentation biology from scientific literature. The regulation of tyrosinase has been highlighted in reviews that appeared in Physiological Reviews, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in the field of understanding melanogenesis and pigment-related cellular mechanisms.&nbsp;In addition to tyrosinase, Decapeptide-12 is also being studied for its possible impacts on more global pathways in cellular communication that are related to pigmentation. Researchers are investigating the peptide's potential to influence regulatory proteins, such as microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), signalling pathways such as cyclic AMP (cAMP), protein kinase A (PKA) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). These pathways, in turn, regulate the expression of pigmentation genes and cellular responses.&nbsp;Secondly, Decapeptide-12 is a rather small molecule and therefore is a good peptide engineering model. The researchers are now able to make very specific changes in the sequences of amino acids and see how this affects the molecule's binding affinity, as well as its specific and biological functions. The modular approach will aid scientists in the design of next-generation peptides in more targeted biochemical research.&nbsp;Decapeptide-12 is proposed to be more specific than many naturally occurring peptides that act on several biological pathways. This type of molecular design is believed to facilitate targeted experimental investigations and is in line with a wider movement in peptide science towards precision research tools.&nbsp;Synthetic peptides are under continued research to gain a deeper understanding of the biology of pigmentation and its molecular regulation, and Decapeptide-12 remains significant. It is a promising case study for the use of engineered peptides to aid biochemical and cellular research due to its specific design and possible interaction with melanogenic pathways, and is still under investigation. The best core peptides research materials online are here: <a href="https://www.corepeptides.com/">https://www.corepeptides.com/</a>&nbsp;The published studies on Decapeptide-12 in journals such as Physiological Reviews, Pigment Cell Research, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – General Subjects, and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences have contributed to the scientific understanding of melanogenesis, tyrosinase regulation and pigmentation signalling.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.

Decapeptide-12 is a synthetic 10-amino-acid peptide researched for its precision targeting of melanogenesis. By regulating tyrosinase, MITF, and cellular signalling pathways, it serves as a model in peptide engineering.

The advent of peptide science has brought with it peptides with extremely targeted interactions with biological pathways. These include a Decapeptide-12 with a proposed function in pigmentation biology. It is a synthetic peptide which may be targeted to melanin synthesis mechanisms and is being evaluated as a research tool to better understand melanin synthesis molecular regulation. It has been speculated to have selective interactions with melanogenic pathways, and has been used as a valuable subject in peptide engineering, molecular biology and cellular signalling research. What are peptides? Peptides are short chains of amino acids, and are basic signalling molecules in biological systems. They are smaller and easier to manipulate, so they might be able to be engineered to bind to a specific receptor, enzyme or cellular pathway. This versatility has led to the increasing importance of synthetic peptides in the laboratory, where they are used to investigate biological processes and to develop new molecular models for scientific research. A synthetic peptide is one of these, known as Decapeptide-12. It consists of 10 amino acids that are designed to bind to the key regulators of melanogenesis (melanin production). It is thought that its structure may allow it to interact selectively with enzymes that are associated with pigmentation, notably tyrosinase, which has a major role in the conversion of the amino acid tyrosine to melanin. Tyrosinase has been consistently found to be one of the important control points in pigmentation biology from scientific literature. The regulation of tyrosinase has been highlighted in reviews that appeared in Physiological Reviews, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in the field of understanding melanogenesis and pigment-related cellular mechanisms. In addition to tyrosinase, Decapeptide-12 is also being studied for its possible impacts on more global pathways in cellular communication that are related to pigmentation. Researchers are investigating the peptide's potential to influence regulatory proteins, such as microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), signalling pathways such as cyclic AMP (cAMP), protein kinase A (PKA) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). These pathways, in turn, regulate the expression of pigmentation genes and cellular responses. Secondly, Decapeptide-12 is a rather small molecule and therefore is a good peptide engineering model. The researchers are now able to make very specific changes in the sequences of amino acids and see how this affects the molecule's binding affinity, as well as its specific and biological functions. The modular approach will aid scientists in the design of next-generation peptides in more targeted biochemical research. Decapeptide-12 is proposed to be more specific than many naturally occurring peptides that act on several biological pathways. This type of molecular design is believed to facilitate targeted experimental investigations and is in line with a wider movement in peptide science towards precision research tools. Synthetic peptides are under continued research to gain a deeper understanding of the biology of pigmentation and its molecular regulation, and Decapeptide-12 remains significant. It is a promising case study for the use of engineered peptides to aid biochemical and cellular research due to its specific design and possible interaction with melanogenic pathways, and is still under investigation. The best core peptides research materials online are here: https://www.corepeptides.com/ The published studies on Decapeptide-12 in journals such as Physiological Reviews, Pigment Cell Research, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – General Subjects, and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences have contributed to the scientific understanding of melanogenesis, tyrosinase regulation and pigmentation signalling. Disclaimer: This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.

Decapeptide-12 is a synthetic 10-amino-acid peptide researched for its precision targeting of melanogenesis. By regulating tyrosinase, MITF, and cellular signalling pathways, it serves as a model in peptide engineering.

Decapeptide-12: Unveiling a precision peptide in pigmentation research

Everything that holds attention has been on trial in the United States lately, thanks to the high cost of a courtroom battle. There are already some users who are already casting their votes with their thumbs and they are searching for a platform that asks less from them.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meta will face a claim in its US federal court trial in August that would have seemed ridiculous 10 years ago: that it designed Facebook and Instagram to be essentially "hard to put down. The case is being filed by a coalition of at least 40 attorneys general, including California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey and 29 other states, which are asking for a maximum fine of 1.4 trillion dollars. To put this in perspective, that's nearly the entire market value of Meta.&nbsp;&nbsp;These are accusations, and they're denied by Meta. The company says that was done by multiplying tens of millions of teen users with the highest possible penalty it could impose, even if during any given time period a particular teen didn't use the features at issue. It also has noted that no unfair-practices or child-privacy case ever has appeared anywhere close to a trillion dollars—a figure reached in the tobacco settlement in 2006, which represented a typical proportion. A judge, and subsequently a jury, will determine the justices.&nbsp;&nbsp;The real interesting part of the case is not the headliner. It's under it. It's not a complaint against a single company. Here it's a collection of design decisions that are embedded in virtually every app on the typical phone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Consider functionality, not brands. The never-ending feed. The next one video that you see before you even know that you want to watch it. The recommendation system that analyzes yesterday's browsing behavior and recommends more of the same today. The call to come back. The punishment for failing to attend class once. Brief snippets of video that are a couple seconds each, and each designed to make you stay for one more second. What is not unique about this is that none of it is from Meta. It's the common language of social media these days.&nbsp;&nbsp;This sense of unease has already tempted some to leave the sites. A small group of alternative networks has been emerging, including mewe, Mastodon and Bluesky — and they are attracting just the sort of users that the big platforms tend to lose: those who feel disenfranchised, unwelcome or simply fed up with the big platforms that harvest their data to serve them a steady diet of ads. None of these players are anywhere near the size of the incumbents. What they provide is something else. They provide an arrangement in which the person taking advantage of the service is not the product they are selling.&nbsp;Instagram and Facebook are based on personalised feeds and social validation. Tiktok made the "For You" feed, the hyper-personalised feed, a focal point of their whole experience, then everyone else did. To keep the session going, YouTube's autoplay and suggestions are designed in this way. There are streaks and there's the consistent drip of notifications on Snapchat. X and Threads rank posts based on what is most likely to elicit a response. To pretend all this is bad, is unfair. A good recommendation can lead you to know a musician that you now love or even a support group that you needed or a corner in the world that you would never have known on your own. The more honest question is whether these systems allow people to have enough influence over what they see without them being largely geared to propsing that they keep the session going a bit longer.&nbsp;&nbsp;The implications for us are yet to be determined, and there's no time for hyperbole. It's no accident that phrases such as doomscrolling or social-media fatigue have become part of everyday language. They say that they feel overstimulated, scattered, exhausted from a feed that brings up the same anxieties continually. Others are conscious of the quiet buzz of performance, the counting of likes and followers, of knowing that being online is a performance that is evaluated. The key is that you'll want to keep the difference between reaching for the phone to talk to someone, versus reaching for the phone out of habit, then looking at it forty minutes later and wondering what you did.&nbsp;&nbsp;Follow the money and the tension becomes more clear. For an ad-funded platform, attention is inventory. The longer you spend on the platform, the more information you will generate, the more accurately you will be targeted, and the more the platform will generate profits. Not all algorithms are villains. A ranking system is just a piece of software and will optimize for whatever it's told to optimize for. The issue is that when the parameter it is instructed to maximize, time on the app, quietly tugs against the reason the user visited the app. When the incentive is to stay connected, it doesn't seem like the business has much to say about "put the phone down and go to bed.&nbsp;&nbsp;mewe is a social network where people can create communities, private groups and connections that they want, without an algorithm telling them what connections they must have. This is the opening that a smaller set of networks is trying to walk through and it's the opening that a platform like mewe positions itself in. The company states it does not engage in surveillance advertising and has no personalised feed to optimize engagement. When there is advertising, mewe calls it opt-in, meaning that the user chooses whether or not to participate. It has over 21 million users globally and over 700,000 groups and has started to develop subscription and creator tools, allowing it to monetise, rather than selling its members' behaviour.&nbsp;People still want to connect online, the issue is whether platforms can do that without making everything you do a push to get you even more attention. Social media doesn't have to be oppressive to use.&nbsp;&nbsp;Carlos Betancourt, the Chief Executive Officer, mewe&nbsp;As the aforementioned names indicate, mewe is by no means the only one doing this. Mastodon, which is an open network of independently-run servers, and Bluesky, which is an open protocol designed to grant users more control over their feeds, are going about the initiative in different ways. They have in common a bet that a greater number will want social spaces that offer choice built in, and their time spent quietly optimised away. Even if it wins, that wager is definitely up for question. However, these platforms are small when compared to the incumbents, and ‘less addictive by design' is more difficult to tout than a feed that already knows what you like.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, things might be changing underfoot. Throughout most of social media's existence, people have evaluated a social media site based on its size and its features: Who else was there and what could they do when they arrived? Regardless of the outcome of the Meta trial, a third question is raised. What does the platform do to your attention, your privacy and your information when you don't watch it? However, if sufficient people begin to ask that before they join, the quieter networks will not have to win. They will just have to provide the solution that some people were seeking.&nbsp;

Everything that holds attention has been on trial in the United States lately, thanks to the high cost of a courtroom battle. There are already some users who are already casting their votes with their thumbs and they are searching for a platform that asks less from them. 

Everything that holds attention has been on trial in the United States lately, thanks to the high cost of a courtroom battle. There are already some users who are already casting their votes with their thumbs and they are searching for a platform that asks less from them. Meta will face a claim in its US federal court trial in August that would have seemed ridiculous 10 years ago: that it designed Facebook and Instagram to be essentially "hard to put down. The case is being filed by a coalition of at least 40 attorneys general, including California, Colorado, Kentucky and New Jersey and 29 other states, which are asking for a maximum fine of 1.4 trillion dollars. To put this in perspective, that's nearly the entire market value of Meta. These are accusations, and they're denied by Meta. The company says that was done by multiplying tens of millions of teen users with the highest possible penalty it could impose, even if during any given time period a particular teen didn't use the features at issue. It also has noted that no unfair-practices or child-privacy case ever has appeared anywhere close to a trillion dollars—a figure reached in the tobacco settlement in 2006, which represented a typical proportion. A judge, and subsequently a jury, will determine the justices. The real interesting part of the case is not the headliner. It's under it. It's not a complaint against a single company. Here it's a collection of design decisions that are embedded in virtually every app on the typical phone. Consider functionality, not brands. The never-ending feed. The next one video that you see before you even know that you want to watch it. The recommendation system that analyzes yesterday's browsing behavior and recommends more of the same today. The call to come back. The punishment for failing to attend class once. Brief snippets of video that are a couple seconds each, and each designed to make you stay for one more second. What is not unique about this is that none of it is from Meta. It's the common language of social media these days. This sense of unease has already tempted some to leave the sites. A small group of alternative networks has been emerging, including mewe, Mastodon and Bluesky — and they are attracting just the sort of users that the big platforms tend to lose: those who feel disenfranchised, unwelcome or simply fed up with the big platforms that harvest their data to serve them a steady diet of ads. None of these players are anywhere near the size of the incumbents. What they provide is something else. They provide an arrangement in which the person taking advantage of the service is not the product they are selling. Instagram and Facebook are based on personalised feeds and social validation. Tiktok made the "For You" feed, the hyper-personalised feed, a focal point of their whole experience, then everyone else did. To keep the session going, YouTube's autoplay and suggestions are designed in this way. There are streaks and there's the consistent drip of notifications on Snapchat. X and Threads rank posts based on what is most likely to elicit a response. To pretend all this is bad, is unfair. A good recommendation can lead you to know a musician that you now love or even a support group that you needed or a corner in the world that you would never have known on your own. The more honest question is whether these systems allow people to have enough influence over what they see without them being largely geared to propsing that they keep the session going a bit longer. The implications for us are yet to be determined, and there's no time for hyperbole. It's no accident that phrases such as doomscrolling or social-media fatigue have become part of everyday language. They say that they feel overstimulated, scattered, exhausted from a feed that brings up the same anxieties continually. Others are conscious of the quiet buzz of performance, the counting of likes and followers, of knowing that being online is a performance that is evaluated. The key is that you'll want to keep the difference between reaching for the phone to talk to someone, versus reaching for the phone out of habit, then looking at it forty minutes later and wondering what you did. Follow the money and the tension becomes more clear. For an ad-funded platform, attention is inventory. The longer you spend on the platform, the more information you will generate, the more accurately you will be targeted, and the more the platform will generate profits. Not all algorithms are villains. A ranking system is just a piece of software and will optimize for whatever it's told to optimize for. The issue is that when the parameter it is instructed to maximize, time on the app, quietly tugs against the reason the user visited the app. When the incentive is to stay connected, it doesn't seem like the business has much to say about "put the phone down and go to bed. mewe is a social network where people can create communities, private groups and connections that they want, without an algorithm telling them what connections they must have. This is the opening that a smaller set of networks is trying to walk through and it's the opening that a platform like mewe positions itself in. The company states it does not engage in surveillance advertising and has no personalised feed to optimize engagement. When there is advertising, mewe calls it opt-in, meaning that the user chooses whether or not to participate. It has over 21 million users globally and over 700,000 groups and has started to develop subscription and creator tools, allowing it to monetise, rather than selling its members' behaviour. People still want to connect online, the issue is whether platforms can do that without making everything you do a push to get you even more attention. Social media doesn't have to be oppressive to use. Carlos Betancourt, the Chief Executive Officer, mewe As the aforementioned names indicate, mewe is by no means the only one doing this. Mastodon, which is an open network of independently-run servers, and Bluesky, which is an open protocol designed to grant users more control over their feeds, are going about the initiative in different ways. They have in common a bet that a greater number will want social spaces that offer choice built in, and their time spent quietly optimised away. Even if it wins, that wager is definitely up for question. However, these platforms are small when compared to the incumbents, and ‘less addictive by design' is more difficult to tout than a feed that already knows what you like. However, things might be changing underfoot. Throughout most of social media's existence, people have evaluated a social media site based on its size and its features: Who else was there and what could they do when they arrived? Regardless of the outcome of the Meta trial, a third question is raised. What does the platform do to your attention, your privacy and your information when you don't watch it? However, if sufficient people begin to ask that before they join, the quieter networks will not have to win. They will just have to provide the solution that some people were seeking.

Everything that holds attention has been on trial in the United States lately, thanks to the high cost of a courtroom battle. There are already some users who are already casting their votes with their thumbs and they are searching for a platform that asks less from them.&nbsp;

A more subdued form of social media is making its pitch as Meta faces trial for 'addictive' design

The UK economy could slip into contraction in 2027 if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed into next year, according to EY, which warned that a prolonged disruption to one of the world’s busiest energy routes could reignite inflation and derail Britain’s fragile economic recovery. In its recent forecast, the accounting firm said the outlook for the British economy would depend largely on how quickly shipping resumes through the strategically important waterway, which carries a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.&nbsp;EY said that if the Strait of Hormuz reopens by the end of September, the UK economy is expected to grow by 0.8 per cent in 2026 and 1.2 per cent in 2027. However, if the disruption continues into early or mid-2027, economic growth would slow to 0.5 per cent in 2026 before the economy contracts by 0.2 per cent the following year.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-kind-of-madness-iran-vows-to-target-israeli-and-us-energy-infrastructure-if-attacked-as-trump-weighs-fresh-strikes-1785537054828">'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes</a>&nbsp;“If the Strait of Hormuz reopens in the coming months, we expect the UK to avoid a more pronounced downturn, but an extended closure into 2027 would raise inflation and could push the economy into contraction next year,” Peter Arnold, EY UK Chief Economist, said.<h2>Inflation fears mount - What's ahead?</h2>EY warned that a prolonged shutdown of the Strait could trigger another surge in energy prices, raising costs for businesses and households while putting fresh upward pressure on inflation.Under its extended disruption scenario, the firm expects UK inflation to climb to 6.4 per cent by the end of 2026. By comparison, inflation would peak at 3.5 per cent if shipping through the Strait resumes within the next few months.&nbsp;Higher energy prices would also weaken consumer spending and business investment, making it more difficult for the economy to regain momentum, EY said.<h2>Bank of England outlook more optimistic</h2>EY’s assessment is more pessimistic than the Bank of England’s latest adverse scenario.The central bank modelled a situation in which oil and gas prices remain between 30 and 60 per cent above market expectations. Even under those conditions, it projected the UK economy would continue to grow by close to 1 per cent next year, with quarterly inflation peaking at 4.5 per cent.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-trump-preparing-to-hit-iran-again-pentagon-says-it-is-locked-and-loaded-as-us-weighs-fresh-strikes-1785536078708">Is Trump preparing to hit Iran again? Pentagon says it is 'locked and loaded' as US weighs fresh strikes</a>&nbsp;EY also expects the Bank of England to leave interest rates unchanged throughout 2026 before beginning to ease monetary policy in 2027.

EY warns prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz into 2027 could push the UK economy into contraction, trigger 6.4 per cent inflation, and derail fragile economic growth.

The UK economy could slip into contraction in 2027 if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed into next year, according to EY, which warned that a prolonged disruption to one of the world’s busiest energy routes could reignite inflation and derail Britain’s fragile economic recovery. In its recent forecast, the accounting firm said the outlook for the British economy would depend largely on how quickly shipping resumes through the strategically important waterway, which carries a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. EY said that if the Strait of Hormuz reopens by the end of September, the UK economy is expected to grow by 0.8 per cent in 2026 and 1.2 per cent in 2027. However, if the disruption continues into early or mid-2027, economic growth would slow to 0.5 per cent in 2026 before the economy contracts by 0.2 per cent the following year. Also read: 'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes “If the Strait of Hormuz reopens in the coming months, we expect the UK to avoid a more pronounced downturn, but an extended closure into 2027 would raise inflation and could push the economy into contraction next year,” Peter Arnold, EY UK Chief Economist, said. Inflation fears mount - What's ahead? EY warned that a prolonged shutdown of the Strait could trigger another surge in energy prices, raising costs for businesses and households while putting fresh upward pressure on inflation. Under its extended disruption scenario, the firm expects UK inflation to climb to 6.4 per cent by the end of 2026. By comparison, inflation would peak at 3.5 per cent if shipping through the Strait resumes within the next few months. Higher energy prices would also weaken consumer spending and business investment, making it more difficult for the economy to regain momentum, EY said. Bank of England outlook more optimistic EY’s assessment is more pessimistic than the Bank of England’s latest adverse scenario. The central bank modelled a situation in which oil and gas prices remain between 30 and 60 per cent above market expectations. Even under those conditions, it projected the UK economy would continue to grow by close to 1 per cent next year, with quarterly inflation peaking at 4.5 per cent. Also read: Is Trump preparing to hit Iran again? Pentagon says it is 'locked and loaded' as US weighs fresh strikes EY also expects the Bank of England to leave interest rates unchanged throughout 2026 before beginning to ease monetary policy in 2027.

EY warns prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz into 2027 could push the UK economy into contraction, trigger 6.4 per cent inflation, and derail fragile economic growth.

Britain's economy on thin ice if Hormuz stays shut, EY issues stark warning. Details inside

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (‘Z’)—the country’s leading content and technology powerhouse—said on Sunday it believes that its fund-raising exercise will not be directly impacted by market regulator SEBI’s order barring two of its promoters. The company is seeking legal advice on the order and will take all required steps to successfully complete the fund-raising exercise, aimed at strengthening its financial foundation, said a spokesperson.&nbsp;The SEBI order has no direct bearing on the fund-raising exercise, the spokesperson added.&nbsp;The statement comes two days after shareholders approved the company’s Rs 3,143.5 crore preferential warrant issue and ESOP proposals at the extraordinary general meeting (EGM) held on July 31.&nbsp;&nbsp;Just hours after the shareholder approval, market regulator SEBI issued an order barring promoters Dr Subhash Chandra and Punit Goenka over alleged unauthorised pledge of the company’s Hyderabad land to secure certain promoter-linked loans.“The Company is in receipt of the order issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and is seeking advice from legal experts on the same,” the ZEEL spokesperson said.&nbsp;“The Company firmly believes that the order from SEBI has no direct bearing on the fund-raising exercise.”‘Z’ also said that pursuant to regulatory approvals received from the stock exchanges and shareholders at the EGM, it will take all required steps to complete the fund-raising exercise.The development triggered a legal debate over whether the SEBI order could affect the company’s proposed capital raising, with most experts being of the view that the fund raise may not necessarily be derailed.&nbsp;<h2>ZEEL fund raise approval and SEBI ban: What is the matter?</h2>&nbsp;At the recent EGM, ‘Z’ shareholders approved the issue of 24,94,85,563 fully convertible warrants to a promoter group entity on a preferential basis at Rs 126 per warrant.The proposed transaction is likely to bring in around Rs 3,143.5 crore into the company and eventually take the total promoter shareholding to 23.79 per cent.The shareholders also approved the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP), involving 3,74,22,835 stock options for eligible employees and employees of subsidiary companies.SEBI’s order against two promoters came shortly after the shareholder approvals.&nbsp;<h2>What do legal experts say?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Securities lawyer Chirag Shah said the timing of the SEBI order and ZEEL’s shareholder approval was unusual, but also emphasised that “all the requirements under company law have already been met”.He noted that shareholders had already approved the fund raise overwhelmingly and so ZEEL should approach SEBI for a positive view, highlighting the company’s growth requirements.“In my view, the company should be approaching SEBI” with the point that the resolutions approved at the EGM had already been shared with stock exchanges as required under LODR, Shah said.&nbsp;He said SEBI would take cognisance of the approvals and could possibly provide “some kind of forbearance” to allow the fund raise to proceed.Shah expressed confidence that SAT could consider the matter if immediate relief is required.Pavan Kumar Vijay, founder of Corporate Professionals, said the SEBI order does not automatically end the capital-raising process, though stock exchange approval could pose a hurdle.

‘Z’ said it believes its fund-raising exercise will not be impacted by market regulator SEBI’s order, and following regulatory approvals received from the stock exchanges and shareholders at the EGM, it will take all required steps to complete the fund-raising exercise.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (‘Z’)—the country’s leading content and technology powerhouse—said on Sunday it believes that its fund-raising exercise will not be directly impacted by market regulator SEBI’s order barring two of its promoters. The company is seeking legal advice on the order and will take all required steps to successfully complete the fund-raising exercise, aimed at strengthening its financial foundation, said a spokesperson. The SEBI order has no direct bearing on the fund-raising exercise, the spokesperson added. The statement comes two days after shareholders approved the company’s Rs 3,143.5 crore preferential warrant issue and ESOP proposals at the extraordinary general meeting (EGM) held on July 31. Just hours after the shareholder approval, market regulator SEBI issued an order barring promoters Dr Subhash Chandra and Punit Goenka over alleged unauthorised pledge of the company’s Hyderabad land to secure certain promoter-linked loans. “The Company is in receipt of the order issued by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and is seeking advice from legal experts on the same,” the ZEEL spokesperson said. “The Company firmly believes that the order from SEBI has no direct bearing on the fund-raising exercise.” ‘Z’ also said that pursuant to regulatory approvals received from the stock exchanges and shareholders at the EGM, it will take all required steps to complete the fund-raising exercise. The development triggered a legal debate over whether the SEBI order could affect the company’s proposed capital raising, with most experts being of the view that the fund raise may not necessarily be derailed. ZEEL fund raise approval and SEBI ban: What is the matter? At the recent EGM, ‘Z’ shareholders approved the issue of 24,94,85,563 fully convertible warrants to a promoter group entity on a preferential basis at Rs 126 per warrant. The proposed transaction is likely to bring in around Rs 3,143.5 crore into the company and eventually take the total promoter shareholding to 23.79 per cent. The shareholders also approved the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP), involving 3,74,22,835 stock options for eligible employees and employees of subsidiary companies. SEBI’s order against two promoters came shortly after the shareholder approvals. What do legal experts say? Securities lawyer Chirag Shah said the timing of the SEBI order and ZEEL’s shareholder approval was unusual, but also emphasised that “all the requirements under company law have already been met”. He noted that shareholders had already approved the fund raise overwhelmingly and so ZEEL should approach SEBI for a positive view, highlighting the company’s growth requirements. “In my view, the company should be approaching SEBI” with the point that the resolutions approved at the EGM had already been shared with stock exchanges as required under LODR, Shah said. He said SEBI would take cognisance of the approvals and could possibly provide “some kind of forbearance” to allow the fund raise to proceed. Shah expressed confidence that SAT could consider the matter if immediate relief is required. Pavan Kumar Vijay, founder of Corporate Professionals, said the SEBI order does not automatically end the capital-raising process, though stock exchange approval could pose a hurdle.

‘Z’ said it believes its fund-raising exercise will not be impacted by market regulator SEBI’s order, and following regulatory approvals received from the stock exchanges and shareholders at the EGM, it will take all required steps to complete the fund-raising exercise.

‘Z’ says no direct bearing of SEBI order on Rs 3,143.5 crore fund-raise, will take needed steps to complete exercise

India is "closely monitoring" a proposed US law that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (Jul 31), after the legislation cleared the US Senate. Addressing the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi was keeping a close watch on developments in Washington while continuing to engage with US authorities on the issue. "We are closely monitoring the developments," Jaiswal said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-avoids-higher-us-tariff-secures-lower-10-rate-here-s-how-1784854529326">India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how</a><h2>India's security needs come first</h2>Reiterating India's long-standing position on energy imports, he stressed that the country's decisions are driven by its energy security needs and national priorities."On energy security, our position has been clarified and very well articulated on several occasions. It is something which is predicated on our national priorities and on securing the energy needs of our 1.4 billion people through diversified sources, which includes the US," he said.Jaiswal added that India remains in touch with relevant stakeholders in the United States regarding the proposed legislation. "We remain engaged with relevant stakeholders in the US at various levels on this particular matter," he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-trade-deal-with-india-is-very-very-close-what-s-holding-it-up-wion-decodes-1782280167960">US says trade deal with India is 'very, very close'. What's holding it up? | WION Decodes</a><h2>Why does the US want to impose a 100% tariff on India?</h2>The US is not targeting India solely. The comments come after the US Senate passed the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by an 86-12 vote. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.If approved and signed into law, the legislation would give US President Donald Trump the authority to impose both primary and secondary sanctions on Russia and entities supporting its economy.It also proposes tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from countries that purchase significant volumes of Russian oil and gas or assist Moscow in circumventing sanctions.Under Section 113 of the proposed legislation, the punitive tariffs could apply to the five largest importers of Russian energy, currently identified as India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan. The bill also targets countries involved in facilitating Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" used to transport sanctioned oil.Additionally, the proposed law requires the US Trade Representative to review the world's largest buyers of Russian hydrocarbons every 180 days, allowing Washington to adjust tariff measures based on changing import patterns.The legislation is part of Washington's broader effort to increase economic pressure on Moscow while discouraging countries from continuing large-scale purchases of Russian energy.

India has said it is "closely monitoring" a proposed US law that could impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries importing significant volumes of Russian oil and gas. The legislation, which has cleared the US Senate, now heads to the House of Representatives.

India is "closely monitoring" a proposed US law that could impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday (Jul 31), after the legislation cleared the US Senate. Addressing the weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi was keeping a close watch on developments in Washington while continuing to engage with US authorities on the issue. "We are closely monitoring the developments," Jaiswal said. Also read | India avoids higher US tariff, secures lower 10% rate. Here's how India's security needs come first Reiterating India's long-standing position on energy imports, he stressed that the country's decisions are driven by its energy security needs and national priorities. "On energy security, our position has been clarified and very well articulated on several occasions. It is something which is predicated on our national priorities and on securing the energy needs of our 1.4 billion people through diversified sources, which includes the US," he said. Jaiswal added that India remains in touch with relevant stakeholders in the United States regarding the proposed legislation. "We remain engaged with relevant stakeholders in the US at various levels on this particular matter," he said. Also read | US says trade deal with India is 'very, very close'. What's holding it up? | WION Decodes Why does the US want to impose a 100% tariff on India? The US is not targeting India solely. The comments come after the US Senate passed the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 by an 86-12 vote. The bill will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. If approved and signed into law, the legislation would give US President Donald Trump the authority to impose both primary and secondary sanctions on Russia and entities supporting its economy. It also proposes tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports from countries that purchase significant volumes of Russian oil and gas or assist Moscow in circumventing sanctions. Under Section 113 of the proposed legislation, the punitive tariffs could apply to the five largest importers of Russian energy, currently identified as India, China, Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan. The bill also targets countries involved in facilitating Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" used to transport sanctioned oil. Additionally, the proposed law requires the US Trade Representative to review the world's largest buyers of Russian hydrocarbons every 180 days, allowing Washington to adjust tariff measures based on changing import patterns. The legislation is part of Washington's broader effort to increase economic pressure on Moscow while discouraging countries from continuing large-scale purchases of Russian energy.

India has said it is "closely monitoring" a proposed US law that could impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries importing significant volumes of Russian oil and gas. The legislation, which has cleared the US Senate, now heads to the House of Representatives.

Buying Russian oil could cost India dearly? MEA breaks silence on US 100% tariff bill

Mumbai: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (‘Z’) – the country’s leading content and technology powerhouse – on Friday secured the requisite support of its shareholders for the resolution to issue fully convertible warrants to a promoter group entity on a preferential basis.Shareholders present at the media giant’s extraordinary general meeting (EGM) also approved the resolutions to implement the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) for the Human Capital of ‘Z’ and its subsidiary companies.&nbsp;In a regulatory filing, ‘Z’ said the approvals for all the resolutions mark a firm step forward for the company in strengthening its financial foundation to pursue value-accretive opportunities and build a robust trajectory for the future.&nbsp;'Z' said it garnered unequivocal support from its shareholders, reinforcing their confidence in the company’s strategic growth aspirations and its ability to generate higher value going forward.&nbsp;&nbsp;It further said in the filing that the trust reposed by the shareholders serves as a firm testament to the Board and management team’s ability to ensure higher value generation in the future.&nbsp;As a result, the company will have access to higher growth capital, which it will invest in amplifying its new strategic growth avenues and enhancing the capabilities within its existing business segments.&nbsp;The approval will further enable ‘Z’ to accelerate its growth plans and enhance long-term value creation, in an increasingly competitive and evolving entertainment landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Promoter warrants</h2>&nbsp;Following the approval, ‘Z’ will issue 24,94,85,563 warrants to promoter group entity on a preferential basis, at Rs. 126 per warrant.The promoters will invest Rs. 3143.5 crores in the company, eventually increasing total promoter shareholding to 23.79%.&nbsp;<h2>‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan</h2>&nbsp;‘Z’ will also implement the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) by granting 3,74,22,835 stock options to eligible employees of ‘Z’ and its subsidiary companies, having face value of Re. 1/- each, in one or more tranches.&nbsp;The approval of both key resolutions reinforces the shareholders’ confidence in the company’s long-term potential and ensures leadership continuity with enhanced promoter skin in the game.&nbsp;&nbsp;The trust reposed by the shareholders serves as a firm testament to the Board and management team’s ability to ensure higher value-generation in future and enables the human capital to participate meaningfully in the company’s growth journey, as true co-owners.The ESOP framework aligns the growth ambitions of the company’s talent with the long-term shareholder aspirations to ensure sustained value-creation for all stakeholders.&nbsp;<h2>Management speak</h2>&nbsp;R. Gopalan, Chairman, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. expressed his gratitude towards the shareholders and said, “This approval is a clear reflection of the shareholders’ belief in the company and its management. The Board’s decision and the subsequent shareholder approval, to enhance the foundation and resilience of the company through promoter fund infusion, will further enable ‘Z’ to stay ahead of competition and generate higher value for all its stakeholders.”&nbsp;“I would also like to thank the shareholders for recognizing the immense contributions of ‘Z’s Human Capital and approving the Employee Stock Option Plan, that will only spur higher innovation and accountability to drive the Company forward. The Board firmly believes that robust growth capital coupled with enhanced promoter alignment, will serve as key enablers in ensuring long-term profitability in a dynamic business environment,” he added.&nbsp;“With the approval of the key resolutions, the Company is on a furthermore solid footing to execute its future growth plans effectively,” Gopalan said further.&nbsp;The company said that the whole-hearted support of the shareholders on the board decisions enables it to take the necessary steps forward to achieve its strategic growth ambitions.&nbsp;In its previous meetings, the Board of Directors had reviewed the Company’s growth plans for the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;‘Z’ has presence in more than 190 countries and a reach of over 1.4 billion people across the globe. It brings diverse stories and experiences to life through linear television, digital platforms, movies, music and live entertainment across languages.

After the approval of resolutions by shareholders, ‘Z’ will have access to higher growth capital, which it will invest in amplifying its new strategic growth avenues and enhancing the capabilities within its existing business segments.

Mumbai: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (‘Z’) – the country’s leading content and technology powerhouse – on Friday secured the requisite support of its shareholders for the resolution to issue fully convertible warrants to a promoter group entity on a preferential basis. Shareholders present at the media giant’s extraordinary general meeting (EGM) also approved the resolutions to implement the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) for the Human Capital of ‘Z’ and its subsidiary companies. In a regulatory filing, ‘Z’ said the approvals for all the resolutions mark a firm step forward for the company in strengthening its financial foundation to pursue value-accretive opportunities and build a robust trajectory for the future. 'Z' said it garnered unequivocal support from its shareholders, reinforcing their confidence in the company’s strategic growth aspirations and its ability to generate higher value going forward. It further said in the filing that the trust reposed by the shareholders serves as a firm testament to the Board and management team’s ability to ensure higher value generation in the future. As a result, the company will have access to higher growth capital, which it will invest in amplifying its new strategic growth avenues and enhancing the capabilities within its existing business segments. The approval will further enable ‘Z’ to accelerate its growth plans and enhance long-term value creation, in an increasingly competitive and evolving entertainment landscape. Promoter warrants Following the approval, ‘Z’ will issue 24,94,85,563 warrants to promoter group entity on a preferential basis, at Rs. 126 per warrant. The promoters will invest Rs. 3143.5 crores in the company, eventually increasing total promoter shareholding to 23.79%. ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan ‘Z’ will also implement the ‘Truly Yours’ Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) by granting 3,74,22,835 stock options to eligible employees of ‘Z’ and its subsidiary companies, having face value of Re. 1/- each, in one or more tranches. The approval of both key resolutions reinforces the shareholders’ confidence in the company’s long-term potential and ensures leadership continuity with enhanced promoter skin in the game. The trust reposed by the shareholders serves as a firm testament to the Board and management team’s ability to ensure higher value-generation in future and enables the human capital to participate meaningfully in the company’s growth journey, as true co-owners. The ESOP framework aligns the growth ambitions of the company’s talent with the long-term shareholder aspirations to ensure sustained value-creation for all stakeholders. Management speak R. Gopalan, Chairman, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. expressed his gratitude towards the shareholders and said, “This approval is a clear reflection of the shareholders’ belief in the company and its management. The Board’s decision and the subsequent shareholder approval, to enhance the foundation and resilience of the company through promoter fund infusion, will further enable ‘Z’ to stay ahead of competition and generate higher value for all its stakeholders.” “I would also like to thank the shareholders for recognizing the immense contributions of ‘Z’s Human Capital and approving the Employee Stock Option Plan, that will only spur higher innovation and accountability to drive the Company forward. The Board firmly believes that robust growth capital coupled with enhanced promoter alignment, will serve as key enablers in ensuring long-term profitability in a dynamic business environment,” he added. “With the approval of the key resolutions, the Company is on a furthermore solid footing to execute its future growth plans effectively,” Gopalan said further. The company said that the whole-hearted support of the shareholders on the board decisions enables it to take the necessary steps forward to achieve its strategic growth ambitions. In its previous meetings, the Board of Directors had reviewed the Company’s growth plans for the future. ‘Z’ has presence in more than 190 countries and a reach of over 1.4 billion people across the globe. It brings diverse stories and experiences to life through linear television, digital platforms, movies, music and live entertainment across languages.

After the approval of resolutions by shareholders, ‘Z’ will have access to higher growth capital, which it will invest in amplifying its new strategic growth avenues and enhancing the capabilities within its existing business segments.

‘Z’ shareholders approve resolutions for promoter warrants, ESOP at EGM

The US Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged on Wednesday (July 29) for a fifth consecutive meeting, but growing inflation concerns linked to the Iran war led three policymakers to back a quarter percentage-point increase in borrowing costs. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), the Fed's rate-setting panel, voted to keep the benchmark interest rate in the 3.50 per cent to 3.75 per cent range, a decision that financial markets had widely expected.&nbsp;However, the outcome revealed a sharper divide among policymakers as inflation risks resurfaced following higher energy and commodity prices triggered by President Donald Trump's war on Iran.Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said the US economy remained resilient in terms of employment, but inflation continued to be a major concern.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-re-going-to-be-hitting-them-very-hard-trump-vows-heavy-strike-after-us-intercepts-iranian-missile-attack-1785353856416">‘We're going to be hitting them very hard’: Trump vows heavy strike after US intercepts Iranian missile attack</a>&nbsp;"We're doing pretty well collectively as a country, as policymakers on the full employment side," Warsh said after the meeting. "But we're doing considerably less well on prices. That's why we describe them as elevated and that's what's taken most of our discussion in terms of transmission mechanisms of monetary policy," he added.&nbsp;According to the Fed, nine of the 12 policymakers believed the current interest rate was appropriate for the economy. However, officials from the Cleveland, Dallas and Minneapolis Federal Reserve banks dissented, arguing that rates should be raised by 0.25 percentage points to counter rising inflation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/he-wants-me-to-stay-involved-trump-says-netanyahu-publicised-iran-intel-to-keep-us-engaged-1785282887695">'He wants me to stay involved': Trump says Netanyahu publicised Iran intel to keep US engaged</a>&nbsp;The three policymakers had also favoured a more restrictive monetary policy at the Fed's previous meeting.&nbsp;US inflation eased to an annual rate of 3.5 per cent last month, but economists expect price pressures to intensify again as oil prices fluctuate due to the conflict involving Iran. The rise in energy costs has also contributed to higher global food prices, adding to inflationary pressures.&nbsp;

The US Federal Reserve maintained benchmark interest rates at 3.50 per cent–3.75 per cent, but a three-vote dissent favored a quarter-point hike due to rising inflation driven by energy costs from the Iran war.

The US Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged on Wednesday (July 29) for a fifth consecutive meeting, but growing inflation concerns linked to the Iran war led three policymakers to back a quarter percentage-point increase in borrowing costs. The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), the Fed's rate-setting panel, voted to keep the benchmark interest rate in the 3.50 per cent to 3.75 per cent range, a decision that financial markets had widely expected. However, the outcome revealed a sharper divide among policymakers as inflation risks resurfaced following higher energy and commodity prices triggered by President Donald Trump's war on Iran. Fed Chair Kevin Warsh said the US economy remained resilient in terms of employment, but inflation continued to be a major concern. Also read: ‘We're going to be hitting them very hard’: Trump vows heavy strike after US intercepts Iranian missile attack "We're doing pretty well collectively as a country, as policymakers on the full employment side," Warsh said after the meeting. "But we're doing considerably less well on prices. That's why we describe them as elevated and that's what's taken most of our discussion in terms of transmission mechanisms of monetary policy," he added. According to the Fed, nine of the 12 policymakers believed the current interest rate was appropriate for the economy. However, officials from the Cleveland, Dallas and Minneapolis Federal Reserve banks dissented, arguing that rates should be raised by 0.25 percentage points to counter rising inflation. Also read: 'He wants me to stay involved': Trump says Netanyahu publicised Iran intel to keep US engaged The three policymakers had also favoured a more restrictive monetary policy at the Fed's previous meeting. US inflation eased to an annual rate of 3.5 per cent last month, but economists expect price pressures to intensify again as oil prices fluctuate due to the conflict involving Iran. The rise in energy costs has also contributed to higher global food prices, adding to inflationary pressures.

The US Federal Reserve maintained benchmark interest rates at 3.50 per cent–3.75 per cent, but a three-vote dissent favored a quarter-point hike due to rising inflation driven by energy costs from the Iran war.

US Fed keeps rates unchanged, but Iran war price pressures trigger unusual split

As the deadline to file income tax returns for FY 2025-26 nears, which is July 31, several salaried taxpayers are concerned about how to file it if the Form 16 is delayed. This is particularly the case for those employees who switched jobs during the financial year and have not yet received all details regarding their salary from their employers. While Form 16 provides an essential summary of salary income and tax deducted at source (TDS), it is not mandatory for filing an ITR.Taxpayers can still file their return without having to wait for Form 16. This can be done by using their salary slips, bank statements, Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS) to calculate their income and complete the filing process.<h2>Documents required to file an ITR without Form 16:</h2>Before filing your return, keep all important documents ready to avoid mistakes. These include:<ul><li>Salary slips for FY 2025-26</li><li>Bank statements showing salary credits</li><li>Form 26AS to verify TDS deposited by the employer</li><li>Annual Information Statement (AIS) to check reported income</li><li>Bank or post office interest certificates</li><li>Proof of deductions and exemptions like documents relating to EPF, PPF, ELSS investments, NPS contributions, health insurance premiums, life insurance payments, home loan interest and rent receipts</li></ul><h2>How to file an ITR without Form 16:</h2><h3>Step 1: Calculate your total salary income</h3>Start by calculating your total salary earned during FY 2025-26 using your monthly salary slips. If you do not have all salary slips, check your bank statements to identify salary credits. Match these details with deductions such as provident fund contributions, professional tax and TDS.Employees who changed jobs during the financial year must include salary received from all employers while calculating their annual income.<h3>Step 2: Choose the correct tax regime</h3>Your tax calculation will depend on whether you choose the old or new tax regime.Under the old tax regime, taxpayers can claim several exemptions and deductions, including HRA, LTA and deductions under sections such as 80C, 80D and 80G, subject to eligibility.Under the new tax regime, most exemptions and deductions are not available. However, taxpayers can claim the standard deduction as applicable.Compare both regimes before filing to decide which one offers a lower tax liability.<h3>Step 3: Report all sources of income</h3>Salary is not the only income that needs to be reported in an ITR.Taxpayers must disclose income from other sources, including:<ul><li>Savings account interest</li><li>Fixed deposit interest</li><li>Dividend income</li><li>Rental income</li></ul>Cross-check these details with AIS and bank statements to ensure there are no missing entries.<h3>Step 4: Verify TDS details</h3>Before claiming TDS credit, compare the tax deducted from your salary with the details available in Form 26AS.If TDS is deducted by the employer but does not appear in Form 26AS, taxpayers should not claim the credit until the issue is corrected. The employer will have to file a revised TDS return to update the details.<h3>Step 5: Check pre-filled details on the income tax portal</h3>The income tax e-filing portal automatically fills several details based on information available with the department.Before submitting the return, carefully check:<ul><li>Salary details</li><li>TDS information</li><li>Bank account details</li><li>Interest income</li><li>Deductions claimed</li><li>Personal information</li></ul>Make corrections wherever required.<h3>Step 6: File the correct ITR form and complete verification</h3>Salaried taxpayers with simple income sources can generally file ITR-1 if their total income is up to ₹50 lakh.However, taxpayers with business or professional income, certain capital gains, or income from multiple house properties may need to use another ITR form.After filing the return, complete e-verification by July 31. An ITR that is not verified within the required period is considered invalid, even if it has been successfully submitted.

With the ITR filing deadline nearing, many salaried taxpayers may still be waiting for Form 16. Here are key things to know before submitting your income tax return on time.

As the deadline to file income tax returns for FY 2025-26 nears, which is July 31, several salaried taxpayers are concerned about how to file it if the Form 16 is delayed. This is particularly the case for those employees who switched jobs during the financial year and have not yet received all details regarding their salary from their employers. While Form 16 provides an essential summary of salary income and tax deducted at source (TDS), it is not mandatory for filing an ITR. Taxpayers can still file their return without having to wait for Form 16. This can be done by using their salary slips, bank statements, Form 26AS and the Annual Information Statement (AIS) to calculate their income and complete the filing process. Documents required to file an ITR without Form 16: Before filing your return, keep all important documents ready to avoid mistakes. These include: Salary slips for FY 2025-26 Bank statements showing salary credits Form 26AS to verify TDS deposited by the employer Annual Information Statement (AIS) to check reported income Bank or post office interest certificates Proof of deductions and exemptions like documents relating to EPF, PPF, ELSS investments, NPS contributions, health insurance premiums, life insurance payments, home loan interest and rent receipts How to file an ITR without Form 16: Step 1: Calculate your total salary income Start by calculating your total salary earned during FY 2025-26 using your monthly salary slips. If you do not have all salary slips, check your bank statements to identify salary credits. Match these details with deductions such as provident fund contributions, professional tax and TDS. Employees who changed jobs during the financial year must include salary received from all employers while calculating their annual income. Step 2: Choose the correct tax regime Your tax calculation will depend on whether you choose the old or new tax regime. Under the old tax regime, taxpayers can claim several exemptions and deductions, including HRA, LTA and deductions under sections such as 80C, 80D and 80G, subject to eligibility. Under the new tax regime, most exemptions and deductions are not available. However, taxpayers can claim the standard deduction as applicable. Compare both regimes before filing to decide which one offers a lower tax liability. Step 3: Report all sources of income Salary is not the only income that needs to be reported in an ITR. Taxpayers must disclose income from other sources, including: Savings account interest Fixed deposit interest Dividend income Rental income Cross-check these details with AIS and bank statements to ensure there are no missing entries. Step 4: Verify TDS details Before claiming TDS credit, compare the tax deducted from your salary with the details available in Form 26AS. If TDS is deducted by the employer but does not appear in Form 26AS, taxpayers should not claim the credit until the issue is corrected. The employer will have to file a revised TDS return to update the details. Step 5: Check pre-filled details on the income tax portal The income tax e-filing portal automatically fills several details based on information available with the department. Before submitting the return, carefully check: Salary details TDS information Bank account details Interest income Deductions claimed Personal information Make corrections wherever required. Step 6: File the correct ITR form and complete verification Salaried taxpayers with simple income sources can generally file ITR-1 if their total income is up to ₹50 lakh. However, taxpayers with business or professional income, certain capital gains, or income from multiple house properties may need to use another ITR form. After filing the return, complete e-verification by July 31. An ITR that is not verified within the required period is considered invalid, even if it has been successfully submitted.

With the ITR filing deadline nearing, many salaried taxpayers may still be waiting for Form 16. Here are key things to know before submitting your income tax return on time.

ITR filing without Form 16? Here’s how salaried taxpayers can submit returns before July 31 deadline

With the July 31 deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27 fast approaching, taxpayers have little room for errors. From mismatched Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS details to choosing the wrong ITR form, missing income or forgetting e-verification, small mistakes can lead to notices, refund delays or revised returns.&nbsp;<h2>Here are nine key checks to make before you hit ‘Submit’:</h2><h3>1. Check your personal information</h3>First things first: Recheck your personal details before anything else. Make sure it is accurate. It includes your name, Permanent Account Number (PAN), Aadhaar details, address, phone number and email address. Also confirm that the bank account registered for receiving your refund has been correctly added and pre-validated.<h3>2. Match your income with AIS and Form 26AS</h3>Form 16 alone may not capture every source of income. Cross-check the details in your Annual Information Statement (AIS), Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) and Form 26AS against your own financial records to identify any discrepancies or missing entries. Tax expert Atul Anand said taxpayers should not assume that AIS and Form 26AS will necessarily show identical information. The documents should instead be checked against the taxpayer’s own records before filing.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/5-income-tax-deadlines-in-july-2026-you-cannot-miss-1782862968568">5 income tax deadlines in July 2026 you cannot miss</a><h3>3. Cross-check Form 16 with your salary details</h3>If you are a salaried taxpayer, carefully compare the income, exemptions and deductions mentioned in your return with the figures reported in Form 16. Any mismatch should be identified and corrected before submission.<h3>4. Account for income beyond your salary</h3>Don't overlook earnings outside your regular salary. Review interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits and recurring deposits, along with dividend earnings, rental income and other sources of income that may need to be reported. Tax expert Priya Sachdeva said taxpayers often face difficulty when they have income coming from several sources. She also highlighted confusion around selecting the appropriate Income Tax Return (ITR) form and reconciling income with AIS and Form 26AS.<h3>5. Recheck all deductions</h3>Before claiming deductions, make sure you are eligible for them and that the amounts entered in your return are correct. Pay particular attention to deductions under provisions such as:Section 80C: Eligible investments and paymentsSection 80D: Health insurance premiumsSection 80CCD(1B): Eligible contributions to the National Pension System (NPS)Other applicable deductions: Any additional deductions for which you qualify<h3>6. Review your capital gains carefully</h3>If you have sold shares, mutual funds or other investments during the financial year, check that the resulting capital gains have been calculated and reported correctly. Make sure you have distinguished between short-term and long-term gains. Priya Sachdeva said first-time investors can particularly struggle with determining the nature of their gains, calculating the taxable amount, selecting the appropriate ITR form and reporting the details correctly.<h3>7. Make sure you have selected the right ITR form</h3>Selecting the wrong Income Tax Return (ITR) form can create problems during filing. Your choice depends on your income sources and other financial circumstances. For instance, taxpayers with certain capital gains from shares or mutual funds may need to use ITR-2 rather than ITR-1. Review your income profile carefully before choosing the form.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/july-31-or-august-31-when-is-your-itr-filing-deadline-check-your-due-date-1782961806164">July 31 or August 31: When is your ITR filing deadline? Check due date</a><h3>8. Check your bank details for the refund</h3>Before filing, verify the bank account selected for receiving an income tax refund. Ensure the account is correctly linked to your profile and has been validated on the income tax portal. An incorrect or unvalidated account could delay the refund.<h3>9. Complete e-verification after filing</h3>Submitting your return is not the final step. Make sure you complete the required e-verification within the prescribed period after filing.Atul Anand said taxpayers sometimes forget this step, which can leave the return unverified and potentially create problems with its validity.<h3>5 mistakes tax experts see most often</h3>Taxpayers commonly make these errors while filing their Income Tax Returns (ITRs):<ul><li>Selecting the wrong ITR form</li><li>Failing to report interest income</li><li>Incorrectly declaring capital gains</li><li>Not reconciling the Annual Information Statement (AIS) with personal records</li><li>Skipping e-verification after filing</li><li>Don't leave everything for last minute</li></ul>&nbsp;

With the July 31 ITR filing deadline approaching, taxpayers should review key details before submitting their returns. Checking PAN and bank details, reconciling AIS and Form 26AS, verifying Form 16, reporting all income and reviewing deductions can help avoid notices or refund delays

With the July 31 deadline for filing Income Tax Returns (ITRs) for Assessment Year (AY) 2026-27 fast approaching, taxpayers have little room for errors. From mismatched Annual Information Statement (AIS) and Form 26AS details to choosing the wrong ITR form, missing income or forgetting e-verification, small mistakes can lead to notices, refund delays or revised returns. Here are nine key checks to make before you hit ‘Submit’: 1. Check your personal information First things first: Recheck your personal details before anything else. Make sure it is accurate. It includes your name, Permanent Account Number (PAN), Aadhaar details, address, phone number and email address. Also confirm that the bank account registered for receiving your refund has been correctly added and pre-validated. 2. Match your income with AIS and Form 26AS Form 16 alone may not capture every source of income. Cross-check the details in your Annual Information Statement (AIS), Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) and Form 26AS against your own financial records to identify any discrepancies or missing entries. Tax expert Atul Anand said taxpayers should not assume that AIS and Form 26AS will necessarily show identical information. The documents should instead be checked against the taxpayer’s own records before filing. Also Read: 5 income tax deadlines in July 2026 you cannot miss 3. Cross-check Form 16 with your salary details If you are a salaried taxpayer, carefully compare the income, exemptions and deductions mentioned in your return with the figures reported in Form 16. Any mismatch should be identified and corrected before submission. 4. Account for income beyond your salary Don't overlook earnings outside your regular salary. Review interest from savings accounts, fixed deposits and recurring deposits, along with dividend earnings, rental income and other sources of income that may need to be reported. Tax expert Priya Sachdeva said taxpayers often face difficulty when they have income coming from several sources. She also highlighted confusion around selecting the appropriate Income Tax Return (ITR) form and reconciling income with AIS and Form 26AS. 5. Recheck all deductions Before claiming deductions, make sure you are eligible for them and that the amounts entered in your return are correct. Pay particular attention to deductions under provisions such as: Section 80C: Eligible investments and payments Section 80D: Health insurance premiums Section 80CCD(1B): Eligible contributions to the National Pension System (NPS) Other applicable deductions: Any additional deductions for which you qualify 6. Review your capital gains carefully If you have sold shares, mutual funds or other investments during the financial year, check that the resulting capital gains have been calculated and reported correctly. Make sure you have distinguished between short-term and long-term gains. Priya Sachdeva said first-time investors can particularly struggle with determining the nature of their gains, calculating the taxable amount, selecting the appropriate ITR form and reporting the details correctly. 7. Make sure you have selected the right ITR form Selecting the wrong Income Tax Return (ITR) form can create problems during filing. Your choice depends on your income sources and other financial circumstances. For instance, taxpayers with certain capital gains from shares or mutual funds may need to use ITR-2 rather than ITR-1. Review your income profile carefully before choosing the form. Also read: July 31 or August 31: When is your ITR filing deadline? Check due date 8. Check your bank details for the refund Before filing, verify the bank account selected for receiving an income tax refund. Ensure the account is correctly linked to your profile and has been validated on the income tax portal. An incorrect or unvalidated account could delay the refund. 9. Complete e-verification after filing Submitting your return is not the final step. Make sure you complete the required e-verification within the prescribed period after filing. Atul Anand said taxpayers sometimes forget this step, which can leave the return unverified and potentially create problems with its validity. 5 mistakes tax experts see most often Taxpayers commonly make these errors while filing their Income Tax Returns (ITRs): Selecting the wrong ITR form Failing to report interest income Incorrectly declaring capital gains Not reconciling the Annual Information Statement (AIS) with personal records Skipping e-verification after filing Don't leave everything for last minute

With the July 31 ITR filing deadline approaching, taxpayers should review key details before submitting their returns. Checking PAN and bank details, reconciling AIS and Form 26AS, verifying Form 16, reporting all income and reviewing deductions can help avoid notices or refund delays

Filing ITR at the last minute? 9 checks to make and 5 mistakes to avoid

When you start your gold loan application process, you are bound to have a single question in your mind - How much can be borrowed from pledged gold? A gold loan calculator aids in getting an estimate of how much loan will be available based on the value of the gold pledged. The calculator gives a preview of what the customer can borrow, helping them to make better financial choices and understand the options when applying for a loan. <a href="https://www.bajajfinserv.in/gold-loan-calculator">Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator </a>is an online free tool, which helps the customer estimate the loan amount for which he or she may be eligible. Bajaj Finance Gold Loan will provide loan options of Rs. from the minimum Rs. 10,000. 5,000 to Rs. Starting from 9.50% per annum with a rate of 2 crore. The gold calculator can help eligible customers understand the value of the gold items and the amount of loan they can avail before visiting a Bajaj Finance branch for the valuation and processing of the gold loan.<h2>What is a gold loan calculator?</h2>A gold loan calculator is an online tool that provides an estimate of the loan amount a customer may be eligible for based on the details entered. It enables customers to understand their potential borrowing capacity before applying for a gold loan, helping them plan repayment and evaluate different borrowing requirements.&nbsp;While the calculator provides an indicative estimate, the final loan amount depends on factors such as the purity and weight of the pledged gold, the applicable loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, and the lender's valuation process.&nbsp;<h2>How does the Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator work?</h2>The Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator is designed to provide an estimate in just a few simple steps.Customers need to:&nbsp;1. Enter the required loan amount.&nbsp;2. Select the gold purity (18K, 19K, 20K, 21K, or 22K).&nbsp;3. Choose the preferred repayment tenure.&nbsp;4. View the estimated quantity of gold required based on current gold prices and applicable loan-to-value (LTV) guidelines.&nbsp;5. Check the estimated loan amount based on the selected inputs.&nbsp;The final loan amount is determined after the pledged gold is physically evaluated at a Bajaj Finance branch in accordance with applicable regulatory guidelines.&nbsp;<h2>What factors determine the gold loan amount?</h2>The final gold loan amount depends on several factors related to the pledged gold and the applicable lending guidelines. While a gold loan calculator provides an estimate, the sanctioned loan amount is determined after the pledged gold is assessed.&nbsp;Some of the key factors that influence the loan amount include:&nbsp;1. Purity of the pledged gold – Gold with higher purity generally has a higher intrinsic value.&nbsp;2. Net weight of the gold – The loan amount is based on the weight of the gold after excluding the weight of stones or other embedded materials.&nbsp;3. Applicable gold valuation – Gold is valued using the applicable valuation methodology in line with regulatory guidelines.&nbsp;4. Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio – The eligible loan amount depends on the applicable LTV prescribed for the loan amount.&nbsp;5. Type of gold pledged – Eligible gold jewellery, ornaments, and gold coins are considered as per the lender's policy.&nbsp;As per the applicable RBI guidelines, lenders determine the value of pledged gold using the lower of the previous day's closing price or the average closing price over the preceding 30 days, published by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) or a SEBI-regulated commodity exchange. If the exact purity is unavailable, the nearest available purity benchmark may be used. Only the intrinsic value of the gold is considered during valuation, while stones and other embellishments are excluded.&nbsp;<h2>Key features of the Bajaj Finance Gold Loan</h2>The Bajaj Finance Gold Loan offers a range of features designed to make borrowing simple, transparent, and convenient.&nbsp;Feature Details&nbsp;Loan amount Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 2 crore&nbsp;Interest rate Starting from 9.50% per annum&nbsp;Gold accepted Eligible jewellery, ornaments, and gold coins&nbsp;Gold valuation Transparent valuation using state-of-the-art karat meter&nbsp;Repayment options Multiple repayment options&nbsp;Part-release facility Available&nbsp;Part-prepaymentcharges: No part-prepayment fee*&nbsp;Gold insurance Free insurance of pledged gold&nbsp;<h2>Why use a gold loan calculator before applying?</h2>A gold loan calculator helps customers estimate their potential borrowing capacity before initiating the application process. By providing an indicative loan estimate, it enables customers to understand how much they may be able to borrow against their pledged gold and plan their finances accordingly.Using a gold loan calculator can help customers:&nbsp;● Estimate the loan amount they may be eligible for.&nbsp;● Better understand repayment obligations.&nbsp;● Compare different borrowing requirements before applying.&nbsp;● Plan for planned or emergency financial needs.&nbsp;● Make more informed borrowing decisions.&nbsp;For example, a customer planning a home renovation may use the calculator to estimate the loan amount available against their gold jewellery before visiting a branch. Similarly, a small business owner requiring short-term working capital can use the calculator to assess whether the estimated loan amount aligns with the funding requirement. The calculator provides an estimate based on the information entered.&nbsp;<h2>How can eligible customers apply for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan?</h2>Eligible customers can apply for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan through a simple process.&nbsp;1. Visit the Bajaj Finance website and navigate to the gold loan page&nbsp;2. Click on ‘APPLY NOW’ to start the online application.&nbsp;3. Enter their 10-digit mobile number and verify it using the OTP.&nbsp;4. Fill in their personal details and select the nearest Bajaj Finance Gold Loan branch.&nbsp;5. Download the in-principle loan eligibility letter.&nbsp;6. Visit the selected branch with the gold assets and the required KYC documents for gold assessment, verification, and loan processing.&nbsp;Loan eligibility, valuation, and disbursal are subject to the applicable lending guidelines and document verification.&nbsp;<h2>Planning a Gold Loan with Greater Confidence</h2>Understanding how a gold loan calculator works can help customers estimate their borrowing capacity, compare repayment options, and plan their finances before applying for a loan.&nbsp;With loan amounts ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 2 crore, interest rates starting from 9.50% per annum, multiple repayment options, transparent gold valuation using a karat meter, and free insurance of pledged gold, <a href="https://www.bajajfinserv.in/gold-loan">Bajaj Finance Gold Loan</a> offers eligible customers a convenient borrowing solution for a wide range of planned and urgent financial requirements. Customers can use the calculator to estimate their eligible loan amount before applying for a gold loan online.&nbsp;*Terms and conditions apply.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.

A gold loan calculator helps customers estimate their potential loan amount based on factors such as gold purity, weight, tenure and applicable LTV guidelines, enabling them to plan their finances before applying for a gold loan.

When you start your gold loan application process, you are bound to have a single question in your mind - How much can be borrowed from pledged gold? A gold loan calculator aids in getting an estimate of how much loan will be available based on the value of the gold pledged. The calculator gives a preview of what the customer can borrow, helping them to make better financial choices and understand the options when applying for a loan. Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator is an online free tool, which helps the customer estimate the loan amount for which he or she may be eligible. Bajaj Finance Gold Loan will provide loan options of Rs. from the minimum Rs. 10,000. 5,000 to Rs. Starting from 9.50% per annum with a rate of 2 crore. The gold calculator can help eligible customers understand the value of the gold items and the amount of loan they can avail before visiting a Bajaj Finance branch for the valuation and processing of the gold loan. What is a gold loan calculator? A gold loan calculator is an online tool that provides an estimate of the loan amount a customer may be eligible for based on the details entered. It enables customers to understand their potential borrowing capacity before applying for a gold loan, helping them plan repayment and evaluate different borrowing requirements. While the calculator provides an indicative estimate, the final loan amount depends on factors such as the purity and weight of the pledged gold, the applicable loan-to-value (LTV) ratio, and the lender's valuation process. How does the Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator work? The Bajaj Finance Gold Loan Calculator is designed to provide an estimate in just a few simple steps. Customers need to: 1. Enter the required loan amount. 2. Select the gold purity (18K, 19K, 20K, 21K, or 22K). 3. Choose the preferred repayment tenure. 4. View the estimated quantity of gold required based on current gold prices and applicable loan-to-value (LTV) guidelines. 5. Check the estimated loan amount based on the selected inputs. The final loan amount is determined after the pledged gold is physically evaluated at a Bajaj Finance branch in accordance with applicable regulatory guidelines. What factors determine the gold loan amount? The final gold loan amount depends on several factors related to the pledged gold and the applicable lending guidelines. While a gold loan calculator provides an estimate, the sanctioned loan amount is determined after the pledged gold is assessed. Some of the key factors that influence the loan amount include: 1. Purity of the pledged gold – Gold with higher purity generally has a higher intrinsic value. 2. Net weight of the gold – The loan amount is based on the weight of the gold after excluding the weight of stones or other embedded materials. 3. Applicable gold valuation – Gold is valued using the applicable valuation methodology in line with regulatory guidelines. 4. Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio – The eligible loan amount depends on the applicable LTV prescribed for the loan amount. 5. Type of gold pledged – Eligible gold jewellery, ornaments, and gold coins are considered as per the lender's policy. As per the applicable RBI guidelines, lenders determine the value of pledged gold using the lower of the previous day's closing price or the average closing price over the preceding 30 days, published by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA) or a SEBI-regulated commodity exchange. If the exact purity is unavailable, the nearest available purity benchmark may be used. Only the intrinsic value of the gold is considered during valuation, while stones and other embellishments are excluded. Key features of the Bajaj Finance Gold Loan The Bajaj Finance Gold Loan offers a range of features designed to make borrowing simple, transparent, and convenient. Feature Details Loan amount Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 2 crore Interest rate Starting from 9.50% per annum Gold accepted Eligible jewellery, ornaments, and gold coins Gold valuation Transparent valuation using state-of-the-art karat meter Repayment options Multiple repayment options Part-release facility Available Part-prepayment charges: No part-prepayment fee* Gold insurance Free insurance of pledged gold Why use a gold loan calculator before applying? A gold loan calculator helps customers estimate their potential borrowing capacity before initiating the application process. By providing an indicative loan estimate, it enables customers to understand how much they may be able to borrow against their pledged gold and plan their finances accordingly. Using a gold loan calculator can help customers: ● Estimate the loan amount they may be eligible for. ● Better understand repayment obligations. ● Compare different borrowing requirements before applying. ● Plan for planned or emergency financial needs. ● Make more informed borrowing decisions. For example, a customer planning a home renovation may use the calculator to estimate the loan amount available against their gold jewellery before visiting a branch. Similarly, a small business owner requiring short-term working capital can use the calculator to assess whether the estimated loan amount aligns with the funding requirement. The calculator provides an estimate based on the information entered. How can eligible customers apply for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan? Eligible customers can apply for a Bajaj Finance Gold Loan through a simple process. 1. Visit the Bajaj Finance website and navigate to the gold loan page 2. Click on ‘APPLY NOW’ to start the online application. 3. Enter their 10-digit mobile number and verify it using the OTP. 4. Fill in their personal details and select the nearest Bajaj Finance Gold Loan branch. 5. Download the in-principle loan eligibility letter. 6. Visit the selected branch with the gold assets and the required KYC documents for gold assessment, verification, and loan processing. Loan eligibility, valuation, and disbursal are subject to the applicable lending guidelines and document verification. Planning a Gold Loan with Greater Confidence Understanding how a gold loan calculator works can help customers estimate their borrowing capacity, compare repayment options, and plan their finances before applying for a loan. With loan amounts ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 2 crore, interest rates starting from 9.50% per annum, multiple repayment options, transparent gold valuation using a karat meter, and free insurance of pledged gold, Bajaj Finance Gold Loan offers eligible customers a convenient borrowing solution for a wide range of planned and urgent financial requirements. Customers can use the calculator to estimate their eligible loan amount before applying for a gold loan online. *Terms and conditions apply. Disclaimer: This article is from the Brand Desk. User discretion is advised.

A gold loan calculator helps customers estimate their potential loan amount based on factors such as gold purity, weight, tenure and applicable LTV guidelines, enabling them to plan their finances before applying for a gold loan.

Planning a gold loan? Here's how a gold loan calculator can help

Bank of Baroda has released its first official response after a hacker claimed to have leaked roughly 1TB of data reportedly connected to the bank, including customer records and internal files. The bank stated that the incident happened after the breach originated from a compromise of an employee's email account, which led to unauthorised access to certain data. It clarified that its core banking systems remained untouched and secure throughout.&nbsp;The statement issued on Monday (July 28) also said that the bank confirmed that the compromised email account had allowed unauthorised access to some data, but noted that the incident was detected promptly and containment measures were put in place immediately. "The incident involved compromise of an employee's email account, resulting in unauthorised access to certain data. The matter was promptly identified, and immediate containment measures were implemented. The Bank's core banking systems were not accessed and continue to remain secure," the bank said in the statement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-is-bengaluru-s-second-airport-delayed-centre-says-karnataka-yet-to-submit-proposal-1785222711036">Why is Bengaluru's second airport delayed? Centre says Karnataka yet to submit proposal</a><h3>Bank launches forensic investigation</h3>The bank further stated that it has launched a thorough forensic investigation into the matter and is coordinating with relevant authorities in line with applicable regulatory requirements. "The Bank has initiated a comprehensive forensic investigation to thoroughly examine the matter and is working closely with the relevant authorities in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements,” the statement added. The statement followed hours after a hacker claimed to have leaked nearly 1TB of data reportedly connected to Bank of Baroda. Based on the claims, the leaked files include customer records, banking information, audit reports, internal documents and compliance records. Meanwhile, the bank is yet to confirm those claims or disclosed comprised of any customer data.&nbsp;Bank of Baroda clarified that the data leak originated from a compromised employee email account, not its core banking systems. However, it hasn't disclosed how the breach occurred or what specific data was accessed. A comprehensive forensic investigation is underway, with further details expected once the probe concludes.

Based on the claims, the leaked files include customer records, banking information, audit reports, internal documents and compliance records. Meanwhile, the bank is yet to confirm those claims or disclosed comprised of any customer data.

Bank of Baroda has released its first official response after a hacker claimed to have leaked roughly 1TB of data reportedly connected to the bank, including customer records and internal files. The bank stated that the incident happened after the breach originated from a compromise of an employee's email account, which led to unauthorised access to certain data. It clarified that its core banking systems remained untouched and secure throughout. The statement issued on Monday (July 28) also said that the bank confirmed that the compromised email account had allowed unauthorised access to some data, but noted that the incident was detected promptly and containment measures were put in place immediately. "The incident involved compromise of an employee's email account, resulting in unauthorised access to certain data. The matter was promptly identified, and immediate containment measures were implemented. The Bank's core banking systems were not accessed and continue to remain secure," the bank said in the statement. Also read: Why is Bengaluru's second airport delayed? Centre says Karnataka yet to submit proposal Bank launches forensic investigation The bank further stated that it has launched a thorough forensic investigation into the matter and is coordinating with relevant authorities in line with applicable regulatory requirements. "The Bank has initiated a comprehensive forensic investigation to thoroughly examine the matter and is working closely with the relevant authorities in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements,” the statement added. The statement followed hours after a hacker claimed to have leaked nearly 1TB of data reportedly connected to Bank of Baroda. Based on the claims, the leaked files include customer records, banking information, audit reports, internal documents and compliance records. Meanwhile, the bank is yet to confirm those claims or disclosed comprised of any customer data. Bank of Baroda clarified that the data leak originated from a compromised employee email account, not its core banking systems. However, it hasn't disclosed how the breach occurred or what specific data was accessed. A comprehensive forensic investigation is underway, with further details expected once the probe concludes.

Based on the claims, the leaked files include customer records, banking information, audit reports, internal documents and compliance records. Meanwhile, the bank is yet to confirm those claims or disclosed comprised of any customer data.

Bank of Baroda confirms data breach, says core banking systems remain secure

Many Indian politicians and bureaucrats have children or spouses studying or working abroad and, in some cases, living in developed countries as permanent residents or citizens. This is often highlighted when controversies arise, such as during the recent National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) paper leak protests, when some alleged that Indian leaders and officials were out of touch with the realities faced by the youth because their own children were studying or working abroad. This is not the case in China, where, for over a decade, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has tracked, monitored and, at times, named, shamed or cracked down on the practice of officials sending their spouses or children abroad to live or settle. They are referred to by the derogatory term 'Naked Officials'. China views the issue through the lens of corruption, illicit asset flight and personal enrichment. If an official's family is abroad, the government may also regard it as a potential national security risk warranting scrutiny, disclosure and restrictions. This is not, however, treated as automatic proof of guilt.But what about India? Here is how China tackles 'Naked Officials', and what India can learn from it.<h2>The 'Naked Official' policy in China is over a decade old</h2>'Naked Officials', or 'Luǒ Guān' in Chinese, refers to officials of the Communist Party of China (CPC) or the Chinese state whose spouse and/or children have emigrated or settled abroad, whether as permanent residents or citizens, while the official remains in office. The term generally applies where the official stays in China while their immediate family relocates overseas, leaving the official 'naked' or without close family in the country. For well over a decade, China has sought to regulate and monitor this category of public officials.In 2009, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) of the Communist Party of China called for increased oversight of 'Naked Officials'. In 2010, the Ministry of Supervision formally introduced regulations to strengthen the management of state functionaries whose spouses and children had both emigrated abroad. The primary focus was information gathering and enhanced supervision to prevent corruption, illicit asset transfers and capital flight.Since then, the policies have been tightened. Promotion rules were revised in 2014, including the introduction of steps such as the Measures for the Management of Posts Held by State Functionaries Whose Spouses Have Emigrated Abroad. These effectively barred such officials from promotion to sensitive positions and prohibited them from serving in military, diplomatic, national security, intelligence, confidential and other key leadership roles.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-corruption-crackdown-gao-yichen-ousted-from-ccp-1769229383243/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-corruption-crackdown-gao-yichen-ousted-from-ccp-1769229383243/embed</a>The first major provincial crackdown took place in the same year in Guangdong Province, where investigators identified more than 1,000 'Naked Officials'. Of these, 866 were reportedly demoted, reassigned, required to resign or retire early. Those affected reportedly included mayors and other senior local officials. Around 200 subsequently arranged for their families to return to mainland China, enabling them to remain eligible for certain positions.By the end of 2014, the Central Organisation Department of the Communist Party reported identifying around 3,200 'Naked Officials' nationwide, with more than 1,000 either disciplined, reassigned or otherwise removed from sensitive posts.The next major tightening came in 2022, when the Communist Party of China Central Committee prohibited spouses and children of ministerial-level officials from holding overseas real estate or shares in foreign companies, as part of broader restrictions aimed at reducing conflicts of interest, limiting opportunities for hidden wealth and strengthening anti-corruption measures.In the past 12 months, there have been renewed internal inspections. The wider net has reportedly included even 'quasi-Naked Officials', &nbsp;whose children live abroad but whose spouses remained in China. Nationwide surveys were conducted by the Central Organisation Department. Several officials lost promotions or appointments following these inspections, with internal disciplinary campaigns calling for their removal from leadership positions where they were found to fall within the relevant categories.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-military-court-awards-suspended-death-sentences-to-former-defence-ministers-1778165436148">Chinese military court awards suspended death sentences to former defence ministers</a><h2>No 'Naked Official' policy in India: How are Indian ministers and officials with relatives abroad treated?</h2>In India, there is no law requiring ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of State Legislative Assemblies, or senior civil servants to publicly disclose whether their spouses or children are permanent residents or citizens of another country, or whether their immediate family lives abroad for study or work. Likewise, there is no dedicated legal framework requiring the disclosure of substantial overseas assets held by immediate family members, beyond the general asset declarations required under election laws, service rules or tax laws.Election candidates are required to disclose their own assets, liabilities and financial interests through affidavits filed with the Election Commission of India, while certain public servants are subject to service conduct rules governing asset declarations. In addition, residents may have reporting obligations regarding foreign assets under the Income-tax Act, where applicable. However, India has no China-style registry or disclosure framework relating specifically to senior public officials whose immediate family members reside, work or have permanently settled abroad.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/six-military-lawmakers-of-china-stripped-off-their-posts-amid-xi-jinping-s-deepening-anti-corruption-drive-1782578304014">Six military lawmakers of China stripped off their posts amid Xi Jinping's deepening anti-corruption drive</a><h2>It's time to start a debate on 'Naked Officials' in India</h2>The Chinese model on 'Naked Officials' does not automatically presume that every such official is corrupt. It does, however, proceed on the principle that such circumstances may warrant greater disclosure, vigilance and institutional scrutiny because of potential conflicts of interest, corruption risks or concerns about illicit asset flight.In India, many politicians and senior officials have overseas family connections that would likely fall within the scope of such scrutiny if a similar framework existed.&nbsp;Legislation requiring disclosures by ministers, MPs, MLAs, senior civil servants and other holders of high public office could be considered as a transparency measure.Such mandated disclosures could answer questions such as:<ul><li>Is the official's spouse or child a permanent resident or citizen of another country?</li><li>Does the official's immediate family currently reside abroad, or have they done so in the recent past?</li><li>Do the official or their immediate family members own substantial overseas assets, such as real estate, bank accounts or business interests, where disclosure is otherwise legally required?</li><li>Are any immediate family members employed by, or hold significant financial interests in, foreign governments, foreign state-owned enterprises or strategically sensitive foreign companies?</li><li>Have any immediate family members obtained long-term residence, investment visas or citizenship through investment programmes in another country?</li></ul><h2>Disclosure without presumption of guilt is the need</h2>Such a framework would be intended to promote transparency, accountability and conflict-of-interest safeguards. It would not presume wrongdoing or corruption, nor would it justify sweeping conclusions about an individual's loyalty, integrity or patriotism.There is nothing inherently wrong with sending one's child abroad to study, work or live, and doing so does not, by itself, amount to evidence of corruption, divided loyalties or disloyalty to India.Any policy, if introduced, should include appropriate safeguards for privacy, due process and legitimate personal circumstances. It should also apply uniformly across all political parties, governments and holders of high public office, without fear, favour or exception.Ultimately, the question goes beyond any individual or political party: should India establish a transparent disclosure regime requiring senior public officials to declare significant immediate family connections abroad, similar to the disclosure and scrutiny mechanisms adopted in parts of China's governance framework?Think about it.

China subjects so-called 'Naked Officials' who have their spouses or children abroad to greater scrutiny and disclosure. Could India adopt a similar transparency framework for ministers and senior public officials? Think about it



Many Indian politicians and bureaucrats have children or spouses studying or working abroad and, in some cases, living in developed countries as permanent residents or citizens. This is often highlighted when controversies arise, such as during the recent National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) paper leak protests, when some alleged that Indian leaders and officials were out of touch with the realities faced by the youth because their own children were studying or working abroad. This is not the case in China, where, for over a decade, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has tracked, monitored and, at times, named, shamed or cracked down on the practice of officials sending their spouses or children abroad to live or settle. They are referred to by the derogatory term 'Naked Officials'. China views the issue through the lens of corruption, illicit asset flight and personal enrichment. If an official's family is abroad, the government may also regard it as a potential national security risk warranting scrutiny, disclosure and restrictions. This is not, however, treated as automatic proof of guilt. But what about India? Here is how China tackles 'Naked Officials', and what India can learn from it. The 'Naked Official' policy in China is over a decade old 'Naked Officials', or 'Luǒ Guān' in Chinese, refers to officials of the Communist Party of China (CPC) or the Chinese state whose spouse and/or children have emigrated or settled abroad, whether as permanent residents or citizens, while the official remains in office. The term generally applies where the official stays in China while their immediate family relocates overseas, leaving the official 'naked' or without close family in the country. For well over a decade, China has sought to regulate and monitor this category of public officials. In 2009, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) of the Communist Party of China called for increased oversight of 'Naked Officials'. In 2010, the Ministry of Supervision formally introduced regulations to strengthen the management of state functionaries whose spouses and children had both emigrated abroad. The primary focus was information gathering and enhanced supervision to prevent corruption, illicit asset transfers and capital flight. Since then, the policies have been tightened. Promotion rules were revised in 2014, including the introduction of steps such as the Measures for the Management of Posts Held by State Functionaries Whose Spouses Have Emigrated Abroad. These effectively barred such officials from promotion to sensitive positions and prohibited them from serving in military, diplomatic, national security, intelligence, confidential and other key leadership roles. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-s-corruption-crackdown-gao-yichen-ousted-from-ccp-1769229383243/embed The first major provincial crackdown took place in the same year in Guangdong Province, where investigators identified more than 1,000 'Naked Officials'. Of these, 866 were reportedly demoted, reassigned, required to resign or retire early. Those affected reportedly included mayors and other senior local officials. Around 200 subsequently arranged for their families to return to mainland China, enabling them to remain eligible for certain positions. By the end of 2014, the Central Organisation Department of the Communist Party reported identifying around 3,200 'Naked Officials' nationwide, with more than 1,000 either disciplined, reassigned or otherwise removed from sensitive posts. The next major tightening came in 2022, when the Communist Party of China Central Committee prohibited spouses and children of ministerial-level officials from holding overseas real estate or shares in foreign companies, as part of broader restrictions aimed at reducing conflicts of interest, limiting opportunities for hidden wealth and strengthening anti-corruption measures. In the past 12 months, there have been renewed internal inspections. The wider net has reportedly included even 'quasi-Naked Officials', whose children live abroad but whose spouses remained in China. Nationwide surveys were conducted by the Central Organisation Department. Several officials lost promotions or appointments following these inspections, with internal disciplinary campaigns calling for their removal from leadership positions where they were found to fall within the relevant categories. Also read: Chinese military court awards suspended death sentences to former defence ministers No 'Naked Official' policy in India: How are Indian ministers and officials with relatives abroad treated? In India, there is no law requiring ministers, Members of Parliament, Members of State Legislative Assemblies, or senior civil servants to publicly disclose whether their spouses or children are permanent residents or citizens of another country, or whether their immediate family lives abroad for study or work. Likewise, there is no dedicated legal framework requiring the disclosure of substantial overseas assets held by immediate family members, beyond the general asset declarations required under election laws, service rules or tax laws. Election candidates are required to disclose their own assets, liabilities and financial interests through affidavits filed with the Election Commission of India, while certain public servants are subject to service conduct rules governing asset declarations. In addition, residents may have reporting obligations regarding foreign assets under the Income-tax Act, where applicable. However, India has no China-style registry or disclosure framework relating specifically to senior public officials whose immediate family members reside, work or have permanently settled abroad. Also read: Six military lawmakers of China stripped off their posts amid Xi Jinping's deepening anti-corruption drive It's time to start a debate on 'Naked Officials' in India The Chinese model on 'Naked Officials' does not automatically presume that every such official is corrupt. It does, however, proceed on the principle that such circumstances may warrant greater disclosure, vigilance and institutional scrutiny because of potential conflicts of interest, corruption risks or concerns about illicit asset flight. In India, many politicians and senior officials have overseas family connections that would likely fall within the scope of such scrutiny if a similar framework existed. Legislation requiring disclosures by ministers, MPs, MLAs, senior civil servants and other holders of high public office could be considered as a transparency measure. Such mandated disclosures could answer questions such as: Is the official's spouse or child a permanent resident or citizen of another country? Does the official's immediate family currently reside abroad, or have they done so in the recent past? Do the official or their immediate family members own substantial overseas assets, such as real estate, bank accounts or business interests, where disclosure is otherwise legally required? Are any immediate family members employed by, or hold significant financial interests in, foreign governments, foreign state-owned enterprises or strategically sensitive foreign companies? Have any immediate family members obtained long-term residence, investment visas or citizenship through investment programmes in another country? Disclosure without presumption of guilt is the need Such a framework would be intended to promote transparency, accountability and conflict-of-interest safeguards. It would not presume wrongdoing or corruption, nor would it justify sweeping conclusions about an individual's loyalty, integrity or patriotism. There is nothing inherently wrong with sending one's child abroad to study, work or live, and doing so does not, by itself, amount to evidence of corruption, divided loyalties or disloyalty to India. Any policy, if introduced, should include appropriate safeguards for privacy, due process and legitimate personal circumstances. It should also apply uniformly across all political parties, governments and holders of high public office, without fear, favour or exception. Ultimately, the question goes beyond any individual or political party: should India establish a transparent disclosure regime requiring senior public officials to declare significant immediate family connections abroad, similar to the disclosure and scrutiny mechanisms adopted in parts of China's governance framework? Think about it.

China subjects so-called 'Naked Officials' who have their spouses or children abroad to greater scrutiny and disclosure. Could India adopt a similar transparency framework for ministers and senior public officials? Think about it&nbsp;

You are a 'Naked Official' in China if you hold high posts and have children or spouse abroad. What about India?

The deadline to file the Income Tax Returns (ITR) is 31 July 2026, just a few days away. Till now, over 3 crore ITRs have been filed, highlighting a growing awareness and a strong shift towards early compliance. As the last day approaches, several taxpayers are scrambling to finish their filings and avoid hefty late fees and penalties. However, despite these encouraging trends in tax compliance, experts warn that those who haven't yet filed shouldn't put it off any longer, since missing the deadline can trigger financial and procedural repercussions down the line, &nbsp;including added costs, delayed refunds, and complications with certain tax benefits.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/hidden-in-british-archives-scientists-decode-200-year-old-indian-scroll-that-helped-sailors-cross-one-of-the-world-s-toughest-seas-1784965526693">Hidden in British archives: Scientists decode 200-year-old Indian scroll that helped sailors cross one of the world's toughest seas</a><h3>Here are some of the key consequences of missing the deadline:</h3><h2>Late filing fee</h2>If you don’t file your ITR by the notified due date, you may need to pay a late fee, as per the Income-tax Act, but only if the relevant conditions and limits apply in your case. And this isn’t some “instead of” thing. It comes along with whatever tax you already owe, so filing later doesn’t magically erase it.<h3>Interest on unpaid tax</h3>If any self-assessment tax is still pending after the due date, interest can keep stacking up until the unpaid part is finally cleared. Even if it looks small at first, the total interest amount can become more noticeable later on.<h3>Delay in receiving your refund</h3>For many salaried individuals, TDS is deducted during the year, so the refund is basically “your money back”. But you can only claim that back properly by filing the Income Tax Return. So if you delay the ITR, the refund also tends to get pushed back. Instead of getting the refund in a few weeks, you may end up waiting much longer, just because the return went in late.<h3>Trouble with carrying forward losses</h3>If you had eligible business losses or certain capital losses in the financial year, then timely filing may be important to carry them forward, so you can set them off in future years, subject to the Income-tax Act rules. Missing the deadline can mean you lose chances that could have helped reduce taxes later.

ITR have been filed by over 3 crore people till now, and more people are rushing to complete it. Experts warn late filers face fees, mounting interest, delayed refunds, and loss of the ability to carry forward business or capital losses for future tax benefits.

The deadline to file the Income Tax Returns (ITR) is 31 July 2026, just a few days away. Till now, over 3 crore ITRs have been filed, highlighting a growing awareness and a strong shift towards early compliance. As the last day approaches, several taxpayers are scrambling to finish their filings and avoid hefty late fees and penalties. However, despite these encouraging trends in tax compliance, experts warn that those who haven't yet filed shouldn't put it off any longer, since missing the deadline can trigger financial and procedural repercussions down the line, including added costs, delayed refunds, and complications with certain tax benefits. Also read: Hidden in British archives: Scientists decode 200-year-old Indian scroll that helped sailors cross one of the world's toughest seas Here are some of the key consequences of missing the deadline: Late filing fee If you don’t file your ITR by the notified due date, you may need to pay a late fee, as per the Income-tax Act, but only if the relevant conditions and limits apply in your case. And this isn’t some “instead of” thing. It comes along with whatever tax you already owe, so filing later doesn’t magically erase it. Interest on unpaid tax If any self-assessment tax is still pending after the due date, interest can keep stacking up until the unpaid part is finally cleared. Even if it looks small at first, the total interest amount can become more noticeable later on. Delay in receiving your refund For many salaried individuals, TDS is deducted during the year, so the refund is basically “your money back”. But you can only claim that back properly by filing the Income Tax Return. So if you delay the ITR, the refund also tends to get pushed back. Instead of getting the refund in a few weeks, you may end up waiting much longer, just because the return went in late. Trouble with carrying forward losses If you had eligible business losses or certain capital losses in the financial year, then timely filing may be important to carry them forward, so you can set them off in future years, subject to the Income-tax Act rules. Missing the deadline can mean you lose chances that could have helped reduce taxes later.

ITR have been filed by over 3 crore people till now, and more people are rushing to complete it. Experts warn late filers face fees, mounting interest, delayed refunds, and loss of the ability to carry forward business or capital losses for future tax benefits.

ITR last date 2026: What happens if you miss deadline? Know about late fees, interest, delayed refunds

Elon Musk’s underground transportation bet could soon be worth $20 billion. The Boring Company is in talks to raise around $4 billion from investors at a valuation of roughly $20 billion, according to The Wall Street Journal. The deal has not yet closed and its size and terms could still change. If completed at that valuation, it would mark a dramatic jump for the tunnelling startup. The company was valued at about $5.7 billion in 2022, when it raised $675 million from investors including Sequoia Capital, Vy Capital and Founders Fund.<h2>What exactly does The Boring Company do?</h2>Musk created The Boring Company around a simple but ambitious idea: instead of endlessly expanding congested roads, cities could move some traffic underground. Its best-known operating system is in Las Vegas, where Tesla vehicles transport passengers through tunnels and surface routes connecting stations around the Las Vegas Convention Center and Strip. But the company’s ambitions stretch much further. It is developing the Music City Loop in Nashville, designed to connect downtown with Nashville International Airport. The company says the journey could take around nine minutes.<h2>From Las Vegas to Dubai</h2>Dubai is another major test. The Boring Company has signed an agreement with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority for the Dubai Loop. Its pilot system is planned to include 6.4 kilometres of tunnel and four stations. These projects could help determine whether Musk’s tunnel concept can grow from a relatively small Las Vegas network into a transport system that cities around the world are willing to adopt.<h2>But Boring Company has faced problems</h2>The expansion has not been without controversy. Nevada regulators accused The Boring Company in 2025 of hundreds of environmental violations connected with its Las Vegas construction activities. The company disputed the allegations. Several other projects pitched over the years, including ideas for Baltimore, Chicago and Los Angeles, have also failed to develop into operating networks.That makes the reported $20 billion valuation particularly notable. Investors would effectively be betting that The Boring Company can turn its tunnelling technology and Loop concept into a much larger global infrastructure business. The reported fundraising has not been finalised. But if it closes near the proposed valuation, Musk’s underground transport experiment will have become nearly four times as valuable as it was just four years ago.

Elon Musk’s Boring Company is reportedly seeking around $4 billion at a $20 billion valuation, up sharply from $5.7 billion in 2022. The funding talks come as the tunnelling startup expands its Loop projects from Las Vegas to Nashville and Dubai.


Elon Musk’s underground transportation bet could soon be worth $20 billion. The Boring Company is in talks to raise around $4 billion from investors at a valuation of roughly $20 billion, according to The Wall Street Journal. The deal has not yet closed and its size and terms could still change. If completed at that valuation, it would mark a dramatic jump for the tunnelling startup. The company was valued at about $5.7 billion in 2022, when it raised $675 million from investors including Sequoia Capital, Vy Capital and Founders Fund. What exactly does The Boring Company do? Musk created The Boring Company around a simple but ambitious idea: instead of endlessly expanding congested roads, cities could move some traffic underground. Its best-known operating system is in Las Vegas, where Tesla vehicles transport passengers through tunnels and surface routes connecting stations around the Las Vegas Convention Center and Strip. But the company’s ambitions stretch much further. It is developing the Music City Loop in Nashville, designed to connect downtown with Nashville International Airport. The company says the journey could take around nine minutes. From Las Vegas to Dubai Dubai is another major test. The Boring Company has signed an agreement with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority for the Dubai Loop. Its pilot system is planned to include 6.4 kilometres of tunnel and four stations. These projects could help determine whether Musk’s tunnel concept can grow from a relatively small Las Vegas network into a transport system that cities around the world are willing to adopt. But Boring Company has faced problems The expansion has not been without controversy. Nevada regulators accused The Boring Company in 2025 of hundreds of environmental violations connected with its Las Vegas construction activities. The company disputed the allegations. Several other projects pitched over the years, including ideas for Baltimore, Chicago and Los Angeles, have also failed to develop into operating networks. That makes the reported $20 billion valuation particularly notable. Investors would effectively be betting that The Boring Company can turn its tunnelling technology and Loop concept into a much larger global infrastructure business. The reported fundraising has not been finalised. But if it closes near the proposed valuation, Musk’s underground transport experiment will have become nearly four times as valuable as it was just four years ago.

Elon Musk’s Boring Company is reportedly seeking around $4 billion at a $20 billion valuation, up sharply from $5.7 billion in 2022. The funding talks come as the tunnelling startup expands its Loop projects from Las Vegas to Nashville and Dubai.

Elon Musk’s Boring Company eyes $20 billion valuation, seeks $4 billion in fresh funding: Report

Paramount Skydance has agreed to pause its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery until after a court rules on a legal challenge brought by a coalition of US states, adding fresh uncertainty to the $110 billion merger.&nbsp;The agreement, announced on Friday (July 24), means the deal will remain on hold until at least June next year while the case proceeds. The revised timeline shortens the court schedule by a few weeks but could prove costly for Paramount if the merger remains delayed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-28-indian-crew-members-safe-after-lpg-tanker-attacked-in-iranian-waters-indian-embassy-in-tehran-1784925514730">All 28 Indian crew members safe after LPG tanker attacked in Iranian waters: Indian Embassy in Tehran</a>&nbsp;Under the terms of the agreement, Paramount could be liable for up to $1.7 billion in so-called ticking fees payable to Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders if the transaction is not completed by then. The fee is set at $7 million per day if the merger fails to close after September 30. "We look forward to proving our case at trial," a Paramount spokesperson said.&nbsp;The lawsuit was filed on July 13 by California and 11 other states, which argue that the merger would create a dominant media company with the power to increase prices across the film and television industry.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/karim-khan-ousted-as-icc-prosecutor-over-alleged-sexual-offence-case-details-inside-1784921800245">Karim Khan ousted as ICC prosecutor over alleged sexual offence case. Details inside</a>&nbsp;"Halting this merger while our case proceeds is a critical victory in our efforts to uphold the law and protect the film and television industries," New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement.&nbsp;The case, filed in federal court in Oakland, poses a significant challenge to Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison's plans to reshape the company into a stronger competitor to streaming giants Netflix and Disney.&nbsp;According to a Reuters review of recent merger cases, similar legal challenges have taken an average of eight months for judges to deliver rulings, raising the prospect of a prolonged period of uncertainty for one of the media industry's biggest proposed deals.

Paramount Skydance agreed to pause its $110 billion Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition until at least June pending a state-led antitrust trial, potentially facing $1.7 billion in delay fees.  

Paramount Skydance has agreed to pause its proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery until after a court rules on a legal challenge brought by a coalition of US states, adding fresh uncertainty to the $110 billion merger. The agreement, announced on Friday (July 24), means the deal will remain on hold until at least June next year while the case proceeds. The revised timeline shortens the court schedule by a few weeks but could prove costly for Paramount if the merger remains delayed. Also read: All 28 Indian crew members safe after LPG tanker attacked in Iranian waters: Indian Embassy in Tehran Under the terms of the agreement, Paramount could be liable for up to $1.7 billion in so-called ticking fees payable to Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders if the transaction is not completed by then. The fee is set at $7 million per day if the merger fails to close after September 30. "We look forward to proving our case at trial," a Paramount spokesperson said. The lawsuit was filed on July 13 by California and 11 other states, which argue that the merger would create a dominant media company with the power to increase prices across the film and television industry. Also read: Karim Khan ousted as ICC prosecutor over alleged sexual offence case. Details inside "Halting this merger while our case proceeds is a critical victory in our efforts to uphold the law and protect the film and television industries," New York Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement. The case, filed in federal court in Oakland, poses a significant challenge to Paramount Chief Executive David Ellison's plans to reshape the company into a stronger competitor to streaming giants Netflix and Disney. According to a Reuters review of recent merger cases, similar legal challenges have taken an average of eight months for judges to deliver rulings, raising the prospect of a prolonged period of uncertainty for one of the media industry's biggest proposed deals.

Paramount Skydance agreed to pause its $110 billion Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition until at least June pending a state-led antitrust trial, potentially facing $1.7 billion in delay fees. &nbsp;

Paramount agrees to pause Warner Bros deal as states' legal challenge heads to trial