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The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking coercive action against Regulated Entities (REs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Lending Service Providers (LSPs operating digital lending applications), allegedly found to be in breach of the Reserve Bank of India's Digital Lending Guidelines.&nbsp;A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia sought responses from the Union Government, the RBI, Google LLC and Apple India Private Limited on the issues raised in the petition. The PIL raises serious concerns regarding alleged violations of borrowers' fundamental right to privacy and to data protection by several NBFC-backed Digital Lending Applications (DLAs) operating in India.&nbsp;The petitioner Himakshi Bharghav contends that, despite the RBI's binding Digital Lending Guidelines issued on May 8, 2025, multiple platforms continue to access prohibited mobile phone resources, such as contact lists and call logs; collect excessive personal and device-level data; and employ coercive, blanket consent mechanisms.&nbsp;According to the plea, the petitioner, a public-spirited student, approached the High Court in public interest to safeguard the privacy and data rights of digital borrowers across the country, particularly students, first-time borrowers, gig workers and economically vulnerable sections.&nbsp;The RBI's revised guidelines, the petition notes, expressly prohibit DLAs from accessing telephony functions and sensitive phone data, allowing only limited, one-time access to features such as the camera, microphone, or location, strictly for onboarding and KYC purposes, subject to explicit consent. The petition alleges that these safeguards are being routinely flouted.&nbsp;The plea further states that upon examining digital lending applications available on major app platforms, several NBFC-backed apps, including Slice, Branch, Navi, Home Credit, Simpl, Dhani, Refyne, ZestMoney, FreePay and LendingPlate, were found to allegedly continue accessing borrowers' contacts and call logs and collecting data far beyond what is necessary for legitimate lending purposes.&nbsp;Such practices, it is argued, render consent involuntary because users are compelled to accept broad, non-negotiable privacy policies to access credit. The PIL also points out that a detailed complaint, supported by documentary evidence, was submitted to the RBI on November 18, 2025, identifying specific violations of the Digital Lending Guidelines. Despite this, the petition claims that no effective enforcement action or public response has been taken, thereby allowing the impugned applications to continue operating on major app platforms.&nbsp;Placing reliance on the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in K.S. Puttaswamy (Privacy-9J.) v. Union of India, the petitioner contends that the alleged data collection practices violate Article 21 of the Constitution and fail the proportionality test, having no reasonable nexus with legitimate objectives such as KYC or credit assessment. It is argued that the RBI's alleged inaction amounts to a failure to discharge its statutory and constitutional duties and results in unequal protection under Article 14.&nbsp;Terming the injury as widespread, continuous and incapable of individual redress, the petitioner has urged the Delhi High Court to exercise its writ jurisdiction under Article 226 and issue appropriate directions to curb ongoing privacy violations by digital lending platforms and ensure effective enforcement of the RBI's Digital Lending Guidelines in the larger public interest.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The PIL raises serious concerns regarding alleged violations of borrowers' fundamental right to privacy and to data protection by several NBFC-backed Digital Lending Applications (DLAs) operating in India.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued notice on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking coercive action against Regulated Entities (REs), Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Lending Service Providers (LSPs operating digital lending applications), allegedly found to be in breach of the Reserve Bank of India's Digital Lending Guidelines. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia sought responses from the Union Government, the RBI, Google LLC and Apple India Private Limited on the issues raised in the petition. The PIL raises serious concerns regarding alleged violations of borrowers' fundamental right to privacy and to data protection by several NBFC-backed Digital Lending Applications (DLAs) operating in India. The petitioner Himakshi Bharghav contends that, despite the RBI's binding Digital Lending Guidelines issued on May 8, 2025, multiple platforms continue to access prohibited mobile phone resources, such as contact lists and call logs; collect excessive personal and device-level data; and employ coercive, blanket consent mechanisms. According to the plea, the petitioner, a public-spirited student, approached the High Court in public interest to safeguard the privacy and data rights of digital borrowers across the country, particularly students, first-time borrowers, gig workers and economically vulnerable sections. The RBI's revised guidelines, the petition notes, expressly prohibit DLAs from accessing telephony functions and sensitive phone data, allowing only limited, one-time access to features such as the camera, microphone, or location, strictly for onboarding and KYC purposes, subject to explicit consent. The petition alleges that these safeguards are being routinely flouted. The plea further states that upon examining digital lending applications available on major app platforms, several NBFC-backed apps, including Slice, Branch, Navi, Home Credit, Simpl, Dhani, Refyne, ZestMoney, FreePay and LendingPlate, were found to allegedly continue accessing borrowers' contacts and call logs and collecting data far beyond what is necessary for legitimate lending purposes. Such practices, it is argued, render consent involuntary because users are compelled to accept broad, non-negotiable privacy policies to access credit. The PIL also points out that a detailed complaint, supported by documentary evidence, was submitted to the RBI on November 18, 2025, identifying specific violations of the Digital Lending Guidelines. Despite this, the petition claims that no effective enforcement action or public response has been taken, thereby allowing the impugned applications to continue operating on major app platforms. Placing reliance on the Supreme Court's landmark ruling in K.S. Puttaswamy (Privacy-9J.) v. Union of India, the petitioner contends that the alleged data collection practices violate Article 21 of the Constitution and fail the proportionality test, having no reasonable nexus with legitimate objectives such as KYC or credit assessment. It is argued that the RBI's alleged inaction amounts to a failure to discharge its statutory and constitutional duties and results in unequal protection under Article 14. Terming the injury as widespread, continuous and incapable of individual redress, the petitioner has urged the Delhi High Court to exercise its writ jurisdiction under Article 226 and issue appropriate directions to curb ongoing privacy violations by digital lending platforms and ensure effective enforcement of the RBI's Digital Lending Guidelines in the larger public interest. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The PIL raises serious concerns regarding alleged violations of borrowers' fundamental right to privacy and to data protection by several NBFC-backed Digital Lending Applications (DLAs) operating in India.

Delhi High Court issues notice on PIL over data privacy violations by digital lending apps

India on Wednesday forecast economic growth of 7.4 per cent for the 2025–26 fiscal year, highlighting the resilience of Asia’s third-largest economy despite a global slowdown and tight financial conditions amid tight tariff pressure under US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;According to a report in ET, the estimate is marginally higher than the Reserve Bank of India's latest projection of 7.3 per cent, and exceeds last year's 6.5 per cent growth. Nominal GDP, which includes inflation, is expected to moderate to 8 per cent for this fiscal year from 9.7 per cent a year earlier. These numbers will form the base ‍for ⁠the ⁠federal union budget due to be announced on February 1.&nbsp;In the second quarter of FY26, India’s economic momentum picked up pace with GDP growth growing to a six-quarter high of 8.2 per cent, improving on the 7.8 per cent improving in the April–June quarter. In the last two fiscals, India had recorded growth of 6.5 per cent and 9.2 per cent.<h3>The economy of India remains robust</h3>The data indicated that the economy of India remains robust at a time of global uncertainty, supported by a resilient services sector, raising investment and focused government spending. Higher industrial output, improved credit availability and continued structural reforms are helping sustain growth, keeping India among Asia’s fastest-growing major economies despite mounting external challenges.&nbsp;The government came up with the income tax relief for the middle class and lowered GST rates during the fiscal year across a wide range of products from September 22, prompting to ease the prices at the retail level. Industry executives stated that the twin measures assisted in reviving demand by including more disposable income in the hands of consumers and reducing the everyday cost of goods.&nbsp;The data also showed that real Gross Value Added (GVA) is projected to rise by 7.3 per cent in FY26, compared with 6.4 per cent in FY25. Meanwhile, nominal GVA growth is expected to slow to 7.7 per cent this fiscal from 9.3 per cent in the previous year. Government expenditure is forecast to increase by 5.2 per cent in 2025–26, up sharply from a 2.3 per cent rise last year.

The estimate is marginally higher than the Reserve Bank of India's latest projection of 7.3 per cent, and exceeds last year's 6.5 per cent growth. Nominal GDP, which includes inflation, is expected to moderate to 8 per cent for this fiscal year from 9.7 per cent a year earlier.

India on Wednesday forecast economic growth of 7.4 per cent for the 2025–26 fiscal year, highlighting the resilience of Asia’s third-largest economy despite a global slowdown and tight financial conditions amid tight tariff pressure under US President Donald Trump. According to a report in ET, the estimate is marginally higher than the Reserve Bank of India's latest projection of 7.3 per cent, and exceeds last year's 6.5 per cent growth. Nominal GDP, which includes inflation, is expected to moderate to 8 per cent for this fiscal year from 9.7 per cent a year earlier. These numbers will form the base ‍for ⁠the ⁠federal union budget due to be announced on February 1. In the second quarter of FY26, India’s economic momentum picked up pace with GDP growth growing to a six-quarter high of 8.2 per cent, improving on the 7.8 per cent improving in the April–June quarter. In the last two fiscals, India had recorded growth of 6.5 per cent and 9.2 per cent. The economy of India remains robust The data indicated that the economy of India remains robust at a time of global uncertainty, supported by a resilient services sector, raising investment and focused government spending. Higher industrial output, improved credit availability and continued structural reforms are helping sustain growth, keeping India among Asia’s fastest-growing major economies despite mounting external challenges. The government came up with the income tax relief for the middle class and lowered GST rates during the fiscal year across a wide range of products from September 22, prompting to ease the prices at the retail level. Industry executives stated that the twin measures assisted in reviving demand by including more disposable income in the hands of consumers and reducing the everyday cost of goods. The data also showed that real Gross Value Added (GVA) is projected to rise by 7.3 per cent in FY26, compared with 6.4 per cent in FY25. Meanwhile, nominal GVA growth is expected to slow to 7.7 per cent this fiscal from 9.3 per cent in the previous year. Government expenditure is forecast to increase by 5.2 per cent in 2025–26, up sharply from a 2.3 per cent rise last year.

The estimate is marginally higher than the Reserve Bank of India's latest projection of 7.3 per cent, and exceeds last year's 6.5 per cent growth. Nominal GDP, which includes inflation, is expected to moderate to 8 per cent for this fiscal year from 9.7 per cent a year earlier.

India projects strong 7.4% GDP growth for FY26 despite tariff row, outpacing RBI forecast

A huge profit on the Polymarket prediction platform, where a trader made $400,000 by betting $32,000 on the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, has sparked a debate. The trader placed the bet just hours before the Trump administration’s military operation to capture Maduro, raising questions about the possibility of insider trading. However, it remains unclear whether the trader had any inside information or was simply lucky.&nbsp;While online investigators have tried to track down the trader, who used the pseudonym ‘Burdensome-Mix’, they have yet to find conclusive details about the account’s identity. Polymarket users often bet under anonymous names, though linking these to cryptocurrency wallets could potentially reveal their true identities. A company called Chainalysis, which tracks crypto transactions, confirmed they couldn’t identify the user but noted that the trader was cashing out through reputable US exchanges, which is not typical of fraud cases that aim to conceal identities.&nbsp;Experts are divided on whether the trader engaged in insider trading. Daniel Taylor, a professor from the Wharton School, pointed out that while the situation appears suspicious in hindsight, it’s difficult to spot such behavior in real time. Unlike traditional financial markets, prediction platforms like Polymarket are lightly regulated, making it harder to detect fraud or manipulation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delhi-becomes-first-union-territory-to-lodge-fir-for-wrong-side-driving-delhi-driving-delhi-moter-vehicle-act-1767703747701">Delhi becomes first Union Territory to lodge FIR for wrong-side driving</a>&nbsp;While prediction markets are overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), their staff is limited compared to agencies like the SEC. This limited oversight, coupled with the fact that Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., advises both Polymarket and Kalshi, has led some experts to question the objectivity of regulatory actions. Critics argue that political ties could hinder rigorous oversight of these platforms, especially as the stakes grow higher.&nbsp;Polymarket and Kalshi, despite their ties to Trump, state that insider trading is not allowed on their platforms. Kalshi has rules prohibiting government officials from betting on topics related to government activity. However, skepticism about the efficacy of these policies remains, particularly given the absence of strong regulatory measures.&nbsp;Other cases of potentially dubious profits on Polymarket, such as a near $1 million win from correctly predicting Google’s top searches, have also stirred concern. Even if a case could be made for insider trading, experts like Taylor argue that prosecution would be challenging without evidence of actual harm to the public or market participants.&nbsp;The Biden administration has been more aggressive in opposing prediction markets, particularly those focused on elections and sports betting. In contrast, the Trump administration was more lenient, with the Justice Department and CFTC dropping investigations into such markets. Meanwhile, Trump’s social media platform, TruthSocial, is reportedly working on its own prediction market, further increasing the scrutiny of this emerging sector.

A Polymarket trader bet on Nicolas Maduro’s capture, then made profit of $400,000 hours later

A huge profit on the Polymarket prediction platform, where a trader made $400,000 by betting $32,000 on the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, has sparked a debate. The trader placed the bet just hours before the Trump administration’s military operation to capture Maduro, raising questions about the possibility of insider trading. However, it remains unclear whether the trader had any inside information or was simply lucky. While online investigators have tried to track down the trader, who used the pseudonym ‘Burdensome-Mix’, they have yet to find conclusive details about the account’s identity. Polymarket users often bet under anonymous names, though linking these to cryptocurrency wallets could potentially reveal their true identities. A company called Chainalysis, which tracks crypto transactions, confirmed they couldn’t identify the user but noted that the trader was cashing out through reputable US exchanges, which is not typical of fraud cases that aim to conceal identities. Experts are divided on whether the trader engaged in insider trading. Daniel Taylor, a professor from the Wharton School, pointed out that while the situation appears suspicious in hindsight, it’s difficult to spot such behavior in real time. Unlike traditional financial markets, prediction platforms like Polymarket are lightly regulated, making it harder to detect fraud or manipulation. Also Read: Delhi becomes first Union Territory to lodge FIR for wrong-side driving While prediction markets are overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), their staff is limited compared to agencies like the SEC. This limited oversight, coupled with the fact that Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., advises both Polymarket and Kalshi, has led some experts to question the objectivity of regulatory actions. Critics argue that political ties could hinder rigorous oversight of these platforms, especially as the stakes grow higher. Polymarket and Kalshi, despite their ties to Trump, state that insider trading is not allowed on their platforms. Kalshi has rules prohibiting government officials from betting on topics related to government activity. However, skepticism about the efficacy of these policies remains, particularly given the absence of strong regulatory measures. Other cases of potentially dubious profits on Polymarket, such as a near $1 million win from correctly predicting Google’s top searches, have also stirred concern. Even if a case could be made for insider trading, experts like Taylor argue that prosecution would be challenging without evidence of actual harm to the public or market participants. The Biden administration has been more aggressive in opposing prediction markets, particularly those focused on elections and sports betting. In contrast, the Trump administration was more lenient, with the Justice Department and CFTC dropping investigations into such markets. Meanwhile, Trump’s social media platform, TruthSocial, is reportedly working on its own prediction market, further increasing the scrutiny of this emerging sector.

A trader on Polymarket made $400K betting on Nicolas Maduro's capture. The incident raises concerns over insider trading in prediction markets, with little regulation

Did insider trading fuel $400K profit on Polymarket? Betting on Nicolas Maduro's capture sparks debate

Copper prices have hit an all-time high, close on the heels of gold and silver. The surge in interest for metals like copper, silver and gold is coming from a number of factors: macroeconomic, geopolitical and industrial. Precious metals such as gold and silver are serving as safe-haven assets amid global uncertainties like trade war and US tariff tensions, as well as policy risks from potential US fiscal deficits. A “debasement trade” is also taking place, wherein investors hedge against currency weakening and inflation through hard assets.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-silver-plunge-gold-surges-to-multiple-record-highs-in-2025-1767188159738/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-silver-plunge-gold-surges-to-multiple-record-highs-in-2025-1767188159738/embed</a><h2>What is the latest price of gold, silver, copper and other metals?</h2>At the time of writing, gold is trading on the spot market near 4,475 US dollars per ounce. Silver is around 78.9 US dollars per ounce, ready to breach the 80-dollar record. Copper is trading near 13,300 US dollars per metric tonne on the London Metal Exchange, or around 6.06 US dollars per pound, marking a record high. Other metals are also elevated, including all-time highs. &nbsp;Platinum and palladium remain strong at over 2,300 and around 1,700 US dollars per ounce respectively, while nickel prices are also elevated compared with historical averages.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-attacks-venezuela-what-does-it-mean-for-gold-silver-and-crude-oil-prices-1767439050212">US attacks Venezuela: What does it mean for gold, silver, and crude oil prices</a><h2>Why is gold surging?</h2>Gold is a safe-haven asset and markets are factoring in geopolitical and supply chain risks, leading investors to hoard the yellow metal. Central banks across the world, from the US Federal Reserve to the Reserve Bank of India, are making aggressive gold purchases as part of diversification away from the US dollar. Around 755 tonnes of central bank purchases are projected for 2026, much higher than pre-2022 levels.The likely Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026 is lowering real yields on the dollar, making gold more attractive to investors. Persistent inflation is further bolstering the appeal of precious metals.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/can-silver-outperform-gold-in-future-due-to-rise-in-demand-1766396593842">Can Silver outperform Gold in future due to rise in demand?</a><h2>Why are other metal prices increasing?</h2>Robust industrial demand for these metals amid the clean energy transition is creating a squeeze on prices. Most of the metals seeing price increases are used in electric vehicles, solar panels and renewables, AI infrastructure and data centres. This sudden and ever-growing demand is propelling copper and silver prices, as these metals are essential components in electronics, wiring and batteries.Supply-side pressures are adding to the rally in prices. Mining disruptions in key regions such as Chile, Peru and Indonesia are contributing to metal shortages, alongside declining ore grades. Environmental restrictions and limited new production capacity for metals like copper, silver, aluminium and tin are adding to structural tightness in the market. This is expected to persist, keeping metal prices high in 2026 and beyond.

Copper price is at all-time high as silver is set to hit another record. Gold remains strong on safe-haven demand as central bank are on a buying spree. Just what is happening to metal prices?

Copper prices have hit an all-time high, close on the heels of gold and silver. The surge in interest for metals like copper, silver and gold is coming from a number of factors: macroeconomic, geopolitical and industrial. Precious metals such as gold and silver are serving as safe-haven assets amid global uncertainties like trade war and US tariff tensions, as well as policy risks from potential US fiscal deficits. A “debasement trade” is also taking place, wherein investors hedge against currency weakening and inflation through hard assets. https://www.wionews.com/videos/gold-silver-plunge-gold-surges-to-multiple-record-highs-in-2025-1767188159738/embed What is the latest price of gold, silver, copper and other metals? At the time of writing, gold is trading on the spot market near 4,475 US dollars per ounce. Silver is around 78.9 US dollars per ounce, ready to breach the 80-dollar record. Copper is trading near 13,300 US dollars per metric tonne on the London Metal Exchange, or around 6.06 US dollars per pound, marking a record high. Other metals are also elevated, including all-time highs. Platinum and palladium remain strong at over 2,300 and around 1,700 US dollars per ounce respectively, while nickel prices are also elevated compared with historical averages. Also read: US attacks Venezuela: What does it mean for gold, silver, and crude oil prices Why is gold surging? Gold is a safe-haven asset and markets are factoring in geopolitical and supply chain risks, leading investors to hoard the yellow metal. Central banks across the world, from the US Federal Reserve to the Reserve Bank of India, are making aggressive gold purchases as part of diversification away from the US dollar. Around 755 tonnes of central bank purchases are projected for 2026, much higher than pre-2022 levels. The likely Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026 is lowering real yields on the dollar, making gold more attractive to investors. Persistent inflation is further bolstering the appeal of precious metals. Also read: Can Silver outperform Gold in future due to rise in demand? Why are other metal prices increasing? Robust industrial demand for these metals amid the clean energy transition is creating a squeeze on prices. Most of the metals seeing price increases are used in electric vehicles, solar panels and renewables, AI infrastructure and data centres. This sudden and ever-growing demand is propelling copper and silver prices, as these metals are essential components in electronics, wiring and batteries. Supply-side pressures are adding to the rally in prices. Mining disruptions in key regions such as Chile, Peru and Indonesia are contributing to metal shortages, alongside declining ore grades. Environmental restrictions and limited new production capacity for metals like copper, silver, aluminium and tin are adding to structural tightness in the market. This is expected to persist, keeping metal prices high in 2026 and beyond.

Copper price is at all-time high as silver is set to hit another record. Gold remains strong on safe-haven demand as central bank are on a buying spree. Just what is happening to metal prices?

Now, Copper price at all-time high as silver set to breach another record. Why are metal prices soaring?

Hyundai Motor Group announced it to roll out human-like robots in its factories from 2028. The announcement comes while showing off Atlas, a humanoid robot developed by Boston Dynamics, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday. It is the development to come in the race of the new technology used by different giant firms.&nbsp;Hyundai stated that it "plans to integrate Atlas across its global network", along with a plant in the US state of Georgia that was part of a massive immigration raid in 2025. Firms like Amazon, Tesla, and Chinese car-making giant BYD said that they will use humanoid robots in their operations.&nbsp;Hyundai confirmed that the Atlas robots will gradually take on more tasks. The firm owns a majority of its stake in Boston Dynamics, the technology company prominent for Spot, the robot dog. It is also being developed to work alongside people and autonomously manage machines, according to a report in the BBC.&nbsp;The company said the robots are expected to reduce physical stress on workers, take on hazardous duties and support the broader adoption of robotic technology. The company did not disclose how many robots would be rolled out initially or the cost of the initiative.&nbsp;Addressing concerns at CES, Hyundai vice chairman Jaehoon Chang said fears about robots replacing human jobs were understandable, but stressed that people would still be required for tasks such as training and supervising the machines, Reuters reported.<h3>Hyundai’s workers are detained</h3>The announcement follows Hyundai’s statement in 2025 that it would invest more than $20 billion (£15.5 billion) in the United States, aligning with President Donald Trump’s push to expand domestic manufacturing. It also said that the investment would include boosting vehicle production in the US and funding advances in autonomous driving and artificial intelligence. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, has also poured significant resources into its humanoid robot project, Optimus.&nbsp;Hyundai’s Georgia battery plant, run jointly with electronics major LG, is among its most important US facilities. In September 2025, US immigration authorities raided the site and detained hundreds of workers, including at least 300 South Korean nationals, resulting in outrage in South Korea.&nbsp;In response to it, President Lee Jae Myung and Hyundai's chief executive José Muñoz warned that the raid could hamper foreign investment in the US. However, Washington and Seoul later reached an agreement to release the detained workers.

The company said the robots are expected to reduce physical stress on workers, take on hazardous duties and support the broader adoption of robotic technology. The company did not disclose how many robots would be rolled out initially or the cost of the initiative.

Hyundai Motor Group announced it to roll out human-like robots in its factories from 2028. The announcement comes while showing off Atlas, a humanoid robot developed by Boston Dynamics, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday. It is the development to come in the race of the new technology used by different giant firms. Hyundai stated that it "plans to integrate Atlas across its global network", along with a plant in the US state of Georgia that was part of a massive immigration raid in 2025. Firms like Amazon, Tesla, and Chinese car-making giant BYD said that they will use humanoid robots in their operations. Hyundai confirmed that the Atlas robots will gradually take on more tasks. The firm owns a majority of its stake in Boston Dynamics, the technology company prominent for Spot, the robot dog. It is also being developed to work alongside people and autonomously manage machines, according to a report in the BBC. The company said the robots are expected to reduce physical stress on workers, take on hazardous duties and support the broader adoption of robotic technology. The company did not disclose how many robots would be rolled out initially or the cost of the initiative. Addressing concerns at CES, Hyundai vice chairman Jaehoon Chang said fears about robots replacing human jobs were understandable, but stressed that people would still be required for tasks such as training and supervising the machines, Reuters reported. Hyundai’s workers are detained The announcement follows Hyundai’s statement in 2025 that it would invest more than $20 billion (£15.5 billion) in the United States, aligning with President Donald Trump’s push to expand domestic manufacturing. It also said that the investment would include boosting vehicle production in the US and funding advances in autonomous driving and artificial intelligence. Tesla, led by Elon Musk, has also poured significant resources into its humanoid robot project, Optimus. Hyundai’s Georgia battery plant, run jointly with electronics major LG, is among its most important US facilities. In September 2025, US immigration authorities raided the site and detained hundreds of workers, including at least 300 South Korean nationals, resulting in outrage in South Korea. In response to it, President Lee Jae Myung and Hyundai's chief executive José Muñoz warned that the raid could hamper foreign investment in the US. However, Washington and Seoul later reached an agreement to release the detained workers.

The company said the robots are expected to reduce physical stress on workers, take on hazardous duties and support the broader adoption of robotic technology. The company did not disclose how many robots would be rolled out initially or the cost of the initiative.

Hyundai Motor Group announces to roll out humanoid robots in US factories from 2028: Here's why

Self-driving vehicles could start thinking like humans if claims made by Nvidia in announcing its Alpamayo suite of AI tools and models for autonomous vehicles bear fruit. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nvidia unveiled new products and services that could potentially turn autonomous vehicles into ‘reasoning vehicles’. The Nvidia technology, along with other innovations, could eventually allow self-driving cars to navigate complex, unpredictable scenarios such as rare traffic edge cases. This would mark a shift from most existing models, which largely follow predefined rules or patterns.<h2>Nvidia on self-driving vehicle future: What is the promise?</h2>Giving the CES 2026 keynote, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said, “Today, we are introducing Alpamayo, the world’s first thinking model for autonomous driving. Not only does your car drive as you would, it thinks as you would.” Calling Alpamayo "a ChatGPT moment for physical AI”, he said the shift is towards machines that can “understand, reason, and act” in the physical world.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-could-change-ai-google-gemini-is-performing-strong-even-without-nvidia-gpus-1763599705063">‘Could change AI’: Google Gemini is performing strong even without Nvidia GPUs</a><h2>What is Alpamayo? Models, tools, methods and ecosystem explained</h2>Alpamayo’s models and tools are designed to help autonomous vehicles reason in a step-by-step manner. The vehicles would, in essence, behave like cars with brains, making decisions in ways closer to human logic. The suite includes open-source AI models, simulation tools, and datasets using reasoning-based approaches.Technically called &nbsp;“reasoning-based autonomy”, AI models in this suite would think through rare scenarios, drive safely in complex environments, and explain their driving decisions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/catch-and-kill-why-nvidia-s-record-20-billion-deal-with-ai-chip-startup-groq-matters-1766650238332">Catch and kill? Why Nvidia’s record $20 billion deal with AI chip startup Groq matters</a>Alpamayo 1 is a 10-billion-parameter vision-language-action model that produces driving trajectories along with reasoning that explains its decisions. Another part of the suite is AlpaSim, an open-source, high-fidelity simulation framework for testing autonomous driving behaviour under rare or diverse conditions.Powering this technology is the Physical AI Open Datasets, which include more than 1,700 hours of driving data from multiple environments and scenarios. According to Nvidia, the large Alpamayo models act as “teacher” models that can be distilled into smaller models suitable for real-time vehicle deployment.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed</a><h2>Behind the tech: How human-like reasoning in Alpamayo works</h2>According to Nvidia, Alpamayo will help developers build, fine-tune, test, and validate reasoning-based autonomous driving systems. The company is positioning itself as a platform provider rather than a complete robotaxi solution, a strategy often compared to open-source ecosystems such as Android.The process involves analysing camera and sensor video for objects, depth, and motion. The models rely on chain-of-thought reasoning to perform step-by-step evaluations of road situations, similar to how a human driver would judge and reason when detecting an obstacle and deciding whether to slow down or change lanes.The models would be validated through retraining and simulation-based testing of complex scenarios.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-would-happen-to-nvidia-if-china-attacked-taiwan-today-a-factual-breakdown-of-the-worst-case-scenario-1764335291497">What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario</a><h2>Artificial general intelligence in self-driving vehicles: How near are we to this future?</h2>Human-like reasoning would require breakthroughs in artificial general intelligence, or AGI, which is the next level of AI. Nvidia has set 2028 as the target for point-to-point self-driving features in consumer vehicles, with robotaxi testing expected to begin in 2027.However, there is scepticism. Ride-hailing apps like Lyft said there is “zero likelihood” of reasoning-based self-driving vehicles fully replacing human drivers in the near term. Regulatory, safety, and technical challenges also remain significant hurdles.<h2>When will self-reasoning vehicles roll out?</h2>Automakers and industry players such as Jaguar Land Rover, Lucid, Uber, and Berkeley DeepDrive have shown interest in Alpamayo. Nvidia expects early real-world integrations to begin in the first quarter of this year.

Nvidia’s Alpamayo AI suite aims to help self-driving cars reason like humans, handling complex traffic scenarios through step-by-step decision-making. Here is what you should know


Self-driving vehicles could start thinking like humans if claims made by Nvidia in announcing its Alpamayo suite of AI tools and models for autonomous vehicles bear fruit. At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nvidia unveiled new products and services that could potentially turn autonomous vehicles into ‘reasoning vehicles’. The Nvidia technology, along with other innovations, could eventually allow self-driving cars to navigate complex, unpredictable scenarios such as rare traffic edge cases. This would mark a shift from most existing models, which largely follow predefined rules or patterns. Nvidia on self-driving vehicle future: What is the promise? Giving the CES 2026 keynote, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said, “Today, we are introducing Alpamayo, the world’s first thinking model for autonomous driving. Not only does your car drive as you would, it thinks as you would.” Calling Alpamayo "a ChatGPT moment for physical AI”, he said the shift is towards machines that can “understand, reason, and act” in the physical world. Also read: ‘Could change AI’: Google Gemini is performing strong even without Nvidia GPUs What is Alpamayo? Models, tools, methods and ecosystem explained Alpamayo’s models and tools are designed to help autonomous vehicles reason in a step-by-step manner. The vehicles would, in essence, behave like cars with brains, making decisions in ways closer to human logic. The suite includes open-source AI models, simulation tools, and datasets using reasoning-based approaches. Technically called “reasoning-based autonomy”, AI models in this suite would think through rare scenarios, drive safely in complex environments, and explain their driving decisions. Also read: Catch and kill? Why Nvidia’s record $20 billion deal with AI chip startup Groq matters Alpamayo 1 is a 10-billion-parameter vision-language-action model that produces driving trajectories along with reasoning that explains its decisions. Another part of the suite is AlpaSim, an open-source, high-fidelity simulation framework for testing autonomous driving behaviour under rare or diverse conditions. Powering this technology is the Physical AI Open Datasets, which include more than 1,700 hours of driving data from multiple environments and scenarios. According to Nvidia, the large Alpamayo models act as “teacher” models that can be distilled into smaller models suitable for real-time vehicle deployment. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed Behind the tech: How human-like reasoning in Alpamayo works According to Nvidia, Alpamayo will help developers build, fine-tune, test, and validate reasoning-based autonomous driving systems. The company is positioning itself as a platform provider rather than a complete robotaxi solution, a strategy often compared to open-source ecosystems such as Android. The process involves analysing camera and sensor video for objects, depth, and motion. The models rely on chain-of-thought reasoning to perform step-by-step evaluations of road situations, similar to how a human driver would judge and reason when detecting an obstacle and deciding whether to slow down or change lanes. The models would be validated through retraining and simulation-based testing of complex scenarios. Also read: What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario Artificial general intelligence in self-driving vehicles: How near are we to this future? Human-like reasoning would require breakthroughs in artificial general intelligence, or AGI, which is the next level of AI. Nvidia has set 2028 as the target for point-to-point self-driving features in consumer vehicles, with robotaxi testing expected to begin in 2027. However, there is scepticism. Ride-hailing apps like Lyft said there is “zero likelihood” of reasoning-based self-driving vehicles fully replacing human drivers in the near term. Regulatory, safety, and technical challenges also remain significant hurdles. When will self-reasoning vehicles roll out? Automakers and industry players such as Jaguar Land Rover, Lucid, Uber, and Berkeley DeepDrive have shown interest in Alpamayo. Nvidia expects early real-world integrations to begin in the first quarter of this year.

Nvidia’s Alpamayo AI suite aims to help self-driving cars reason like humans, handling complex traffic scenarios through step-by-step decision-making. Here is what you should know &nbsp;

Autonomous vehicles will ‘drive like humans’ soon. Why Nvidia’s Alpamayo could be the ‘ChatGPT of self-driving’

Indian Bank unions affiliated with the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have warned of a nationwide strike on January 27 to demand the implementation of a 5-day work week. If the protest goes ahead, public sector banks are likely to see prolonged disruption, as January 25 and 26 are already holidays, effectively affecting services for three consecutive days.&nbsp;Currently, bank staff are off on the second and fourth Saturday each month, in addition to Sundays. Under the wage revision agreement reached between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and UFBU during the wage revision settlement in March 2024, both sides had decided to make the remaining Saturdays non-working days as well.&nbsp;"It is unfortunate that the government is not responding to our genuine demand. There would be no loss of man-hours because we have agreed to an extra 40 minutes working per day from Monday to Friday," UFBU said in a statement.<h3>Five-day work week</h3>It stated that RBI, LIC, GIC, etc., are already working for 5 days a week, adding that the foreign exchange market, money market, stock exchanges, etc., are not working on Saturdays. In addition, the central and state government offices also do not work on Saturdays.&nbsp;The statement said there was no justification for banks not adopting a five-day work week, adding that a call has been issued for an all-India strike across banks on January 27, 2026.&nbsp;UFBU, which brings together nine major banking unions in India and represents staff and officers from public sector banks and some old private sector lenders, noted that its social media push under the hashtag #5DayBankingNow has garnered over 18.8 lakh impressions and around 2.85 lakh posts on X.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-good-some-bad-how-indian-firms-and-energy-security-could-be-affected-by-us-running-venezuela-after-taking-maduro-into-custody-1767595214192">Some good, some bad: How Indian firms and energy security could be affected by US “running” Venezuela after taking Maduro into custody</a>

Under the wage revision agreement reached between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and UFBU during the wage revision settlement in March 2024, both sides had decided to make the remaining Saturdays non-working days as well.

Indian Bank unions affiliated with the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have warned of a nationwide strike on January 27 to demand the implementation of a 5-day work week. If the protest goes ahead, public sector banks are likely to see prolonged disruption, as January 25 and 26 are already holidays, effectively affecting services for three consecutive days. Currently, bank staff are off on the second and fourth Saturday each month, in addition to Sundays. Under the wage revision agreement reached between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and UFBU during the wage revision settlement in March 2024, both sides had decided to make the remaining Saturdays non-working days as well. "It is unfortunate that the government is not responding to our genuine demand. There would be no loss of man-hours because we have agreed to an extra 40 minutes working per day from Monday to Friday," UFBU said in a statement. Five-day work week It stated that RBI, LIC, GIC, etc., are already working for 5 days a week, adding that the foreign exchange market, money market, stock exchanges, etc., are not working on Saturdays. In addition, the central and state government offices also do not work on Saturdays. The statement said there was no justification for banks not adopting a five-day work week, adding that a call has been issued for an all-India strike across banks on January 27, 2026. UFBU, which brings together nine major banking unions in India and represents staff and officers from public sector banks and some old private sector lenders, noted that its social media push under the hashtag #5DayBankingNow has garnered over 18.8 lakh impressions and around 2.85 lakh posts on X. Also read: Some good, some bad: How Indian firms and energy security could be affected by US “running” Venezuela after taking Maduro into custody

Under the wage revision agreement reached between the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) and UFBU during the wage revision settlement in March 2024, both sides had decided to make the remaining Saturdays non-working days as well.

Bank strike on January 27? Cash withdrawals, cheque deposits may not be possible on these 3 days

India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed &nbsp;– have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup:<h2>India and developments in Venezuala</h2>Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed</a><h2>Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela</h2>ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC.In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-us-venezuela-conflict-live-updates-maduro-jailed-trump-us-strikes-in-caracas-1767584039309">US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran</a><h2>Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela</h2>Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade.Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bus-driver-to-president-the-story-of-venezuelan-president-nicolas-maduro-1767558410299">From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a><h2>Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela</h2>Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-capture-of-nicholas-maduro-is-it-legal-to-kidnap-a-president-of-another-country-like-venezuela-1767437573552">'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela?</a><h2>Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments</h2>Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela.On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement.&nbsp;<h2>Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected?</h2>Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil.If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins.If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures.<h2>Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term</h2>Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition.&nbsp;Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.

Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?

India was among the largest buyers of Venezuelan oil before US sanctions sharply curtailed trade. Imports largely halted after 2020 amid American sanctions and military actions, which culminated in the removal of its president Nicholas Maduro, who will now stand trial in the US. Several Indian companies – both state-owned and/or listed – have been in business with Venezuela, particularly in the oil and gas sector. After the extraction of Maduro to the US, President Donald Trump revealed plans to “run” the Latin American country. Any such major change would have both short- and long-term consequences for the Indian companies as well as its energy security. Some of it could be actually positive. Here is a roundup: India and developments in Venezuala Indian markets appear to have largely shrugged off, or factored in, developments related to Venezuela. Oil-linked stocks such as Reliance showed strength, reflecting potential upside rather than immediate losses. But in the long term, if the US gives priority to American firms, it might limit Indian companies' gains. https://www.wionews.com/videos/maduro-faces-judge-in-ny-charged-with-wife-in-narco-terror-plot-wion-1767592261165/embed Indian companies in the oil and gas sector with exposure to Venezuela ONGC Videsh, an unlisted subsidiary of state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation, has stakes in two Venezuelan oil projects: 40 per cent in the San Cristóbal field and 11 per cent in Carabobo-1. The state-owned and listed Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is a consortium partner in the Carabobo heavy-oil project with equity participation. Oil India, a listed Indian state-run oil company, is a minority partner in a Venezuelan oil joint venture alongside ONGC Videsh and IOC. In the private sector, Reliance Industries has been a major importer of Venezuelan crude in the past, with its refineries optimised for heavy oil processing. Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals (MRPL), a listed firm, has historically imported Venezuelan oil, while Nayara Energy, an unlisted company, has imported heavy crude from Venezuela in earlier periods. Also read: US-Venezuela conflict LIVE updates: Venezuela sets commission to bring back Maduro amid Trump's warning to Cuba, Mexico, Columbia, Iran Indian pharma sector firms with exposure to Venezuela Several pharma companies, mostly listed in the Indian stock market, have business interests in Venezuela. Their stocks could be partially affected by any disruption or revival of trade. Sun Pharma operates a registered subsidiary in Venezuela. Cipla has exported essential medicines to Venezuela, while Glenmark Pharma operates through a locally registered subsidiary. Smaller unlisted firms such as Addii Biotech, JoinHub Pharma, and Salvavidas Pharma have been involved in pharma exports, contributing to millions of dollars in annual pharma trade with Venezuela in recent years. Dr Reddy’s had a subsidiary in the country but divested its operations by 2024, resulting in minimal ongoing exposure. Also read: From bus driver to President: The story of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Metals, industrial and engineering sector firms exposed to Venezuela Public-sector firm Engineers India (EIL) has had an overseas office in Caracas to support its international business. Jindal Steel and Power has had iron-ore exposure in Venezuela through overseas assets, though operations have been inconsistent. Bajaj Auto had a historical presence in the Venezuelan motorcycle market, but recent years have seen limited operations due to the country’s economic conditions. Also read: 'Capture of Nicholas Maduro': Is it legal to kidnap a 'President' of another country like Venezuela? Macro impact and energy security future of India in wake of Venezuela developments Indian imports from Venezuela have declined by over 90 per cent since 2019 due to sanctions. This means that while individual firms with exposure might be affected, India’s overall energy security or economy are unlikely to take a major hit from developments involving Venezuela. On the other hand, India could benefit if Venezuela’s oil production and exports increase following sanctions relief or improved Amercian engagement. Future of Venezuela's oil industry: Will India be affected? Venezuela has been exporting roughly 700,000–900,000 barrels per day in recent years, largely to China. If the US helps improve oil infrastructure, output could rise over time, which would ease global supply pressures on oil. If US sanctions on the Venezuelan oil industry are lifted, India could also recover a portion of stuck dues and dividends owed to ONGC Videsh. Refiners such as Reliance, Nayara and MRPL could benefit from renewed access to discounted heavy crude, potentially improving margins. If production stabilises, both IOC and Oil India might be able to move forward with their joint ventures. Indian pharma sector could be affected in long term Pharma and engineering could be a different story. Sun Pharma, Cipla, Glenmark and smaller exporters might face short-term disruptions. If US–Venezuela ties improve, it could enhance market access for essential medicines over time. But again, if American pharma firms enter Venezuela market, Indian companies could face tough competition. Iron-ore operations could remain vulnerable to political or port-related disruptions, though this exposure is not core to the overall business of Indian firms involved.

Capture and trial of Maduro and subsequent US actions in Venezuela could reshape oil flows, affect Indian energy and pharma firms. it could be beneficial if Indian oil firms get stuck dues and global oil supply eases. But instability could be a problem. What's in store?

Some good, some bad: How Indian firms and energy security could be affected by US “running” Venezuela after taking Maduro into custody

In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said &nbsp;the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel.<h2>What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway</h2>Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands.&nbsp;As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-we-blew-it-warren-buffett-s-6-biggest-investment-errors-and-missed-bets-1767258374141">‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets</a><h2>Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel</h2>Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed</a>His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. &nbsp;They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-exits-as-berkshire-hathaway-ceo-what-happens-next-as-the-oracle-of-omaha-goes-quiet-sort-of-life-and-career-what-you-should-know-1767245230739">Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’?</a>Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight.&nbsp;“He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees.<h2>What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words</h2>In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. &nbsp;“Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-timeless-investment-lessons-from-warren-buffett-every-investor-must-know-1767276943779">7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know</a><h2>Buffett’s exit: What comes next</h2>Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances.&nbsp;Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation.&nbsp;Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is &nbsp;a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.

Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next


In his last interview as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett has said the holding firm is uniquely positioned to endure for the next century. Buffett officially stepped down as CEO on the last day of 2025, handing the role to his successor Greg Abel. What Buffett said about future of Berkshire Hathaway Buffett formally relinquished the CEO role on Thursday (Dec 31), after 60 years at the helm that transformed the company from a failing textile business into a trillion-dollar conglomerate. Berkshire now owns or has stakes in companies spanning insurance, railways, energy and consumer brands. As Buffett leaves, Berkshire has than $300 billion in cash. “It has a better chance of being here 100 years from now than any company I can think of,” Buffett said in an interview with CNBC channel. Also read: ‘We blew it’: Warren Buffett’s 6 biggest investment errors and missed bets Buffett is full of praise for successor Abel Buffett praised his successor Abel for decisiveness and judgement. “Greg will be the decider…I’d rather have Greg handling my money than any of the top investment advisers or any of the top CEOs in the United States,” he said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-1-club-should-gold-be-a-top-bet-in-your-portfolio-1767330356889/embed His comments came as some investors had concerns after Buffett announced his retirement in May last year. They had asked if Abel could manage Berkshire’s businesses and investment portfolio while sustaining its premium valuation. Also read: Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’? Dismissing the concerns, Buffet described Abel as a ‘grounded, sensible leader’ who lives a low-key life away from the limelight. “He’s not a distorted individual," Buffet said, adding that if Abel's neighbours didn’t know who he was, they wouldn’t have any idea he was about to lead a company with nearly 400,000 employees. What is Buffett going to do, in Buffett's words In the interview, Buffet indicated he will have a reduced public presence, adding that he will not speak at Berkshire’s annual shareholder meeting this year, but will still attend. “Everything will be the same,” he said, adding that he will remain seated with the board at the meeting. Also read: 7 timeless investment lessons from Warren Buffett every investor must know Buffett’s exit: What comes next Buffett, who stepping aside as CEO at the age of 95, will continue to remain the chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. His will be an advisory and oversight role, without much public appearances. Day-to-day leadership now passes to new CEO Abel, who will be the ultimate decision-maker across Berkshire’s companies and capital allocation. Groomed for the role for years now, Abel was leading Berkshire’s non-insurance businesses. This is a clear and deliberate succession, rather than an abrupt change.

Warren Buffett, in his last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, backed his successor Greg Abel and shared what he plans to do next

Warren Buffett, in last interview as Berkshire Hathaway CEO, says firm will last another century

Shares of ITC Limited saw their steepest fall in almost six years after the Indian government announced a sharp increase in excise duties on cigarettes, raising fears about pressure on earnings for the country’s largest cigarette manufacturer. According to a notification issued late on Wednesday (December 31, 2025), cigarette excise duty will rise to between ₹2,050 and ₹8,500 per 1,000 sticks starting February 1, 2026. Analysts at Jefferies Financial Group said that if the National Calamity Contingent Duty remains in place, the overall tax increase could exceed 30%, significantly higher than market expectations.&nbsp;ITC’s stock slid 10% on Thursday (January 1), its worst single-day decline since 2020. Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. fared even worse, ending the session down 17% in Mumbai. Trading volumes for both stocks surged to more than 20 times their three-month average. ITC markets cigarette brands such as Gold Flake and Classic, while Godfrey Phillips sells Marlboro and Four Square in India.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-india-s-small-nuclear-reactor-ambitions-take-wing-in-2026-bsrs-private-participation-shanti-bill-what-you-should-know-1767267619636">Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know</a>&nbsp;Investors were caught off guard by the scale of the levy, leading to uncertainty over how cigarette makers will absorb or pass on the higher costs. Cigarettes contribute more than 40% of ITC’s total revenue, making the company particularly vulnerable to any slowdown in volumes. The development adds to existing concerns as British American Tobacco Plc, ITC’s largest shareholder, has been steadily trimming its stake.&nbsp;Jefferies analysts, led by Vivek Maheshwari, warned that higher prices could hurt demand and revive risks of consumers shifting to illicit cigarette markets. They estimate ITC may need to raise prices by at least 15% to offset the impact of the new taxes.&nbsp;The higher excise duty comes on top of the 40% Goods and Services Tax applied to tobacco products, also effective from February 1. The government has said the move is meant to compensate for revenue losses resulting from broad tax reductions announced in September. India is home to more than 253 million tobacco users, the second-largest such population worldwide. The finance ministry estimates that tobacco-related illnesses impose an annual economic burden of over ₹2.4 trillion on the country.&nbsp;Authorities have intensified efforts to curb tobacco consumption, including new taxes on manufacturing equipment and proposed restrictions on advertising, such as banning promotions during Indian Premier League matches. The finance ministry maintains that keeping tobacco products expensive is one of the most effective ways to reduce consumption and insists that higher taxes will not encourage smuggling or illegal trade.

Cigarette tax: Shares of ITC see sharpest fall since 2020 after government raises levies

Shares of ITC Limited saw their steepest fall in almost six years after the Indian government announced a sharp increase in excise duties on cigarettes, raising fears about pressure on earnings for the country’s largest cigarette manufacturer. According to a notification issued late on Wednesday (December 31, 2025), cigarette excise duty will rise to between ₹2,050 and ₹8,500 per 1,000 sticks starting February 1, 2026. Analysts at Jefferies Financial Group said that if the National Calamity Contingent Duty remains in place, the overall tax increase could exceed 30%, significantly higher than market expectations. ITC’s stock slid 10% on Thursday (January 1), its worst single-day decline since 2020. Godfrey Phillips India Ltd. fared even worse, ending the session down 17% in Mumbai. Trading volumes for both stocks surged to more than 20 times their three-month average. ITC markets cigarette brands such as Gold Flake and Classic, while Godfrey Phillips sells Marlboro and Four Square in India. Also Read: Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know Investors were caught off guard by the scale of the levy, leading to uncertainty over how cigarette makers will absorb or pass on the higher costs. Cigarettes contribute more than 40% of ITC’s total revenue, making the company particularly vulnerable to any slowdown in volumes. The development adds to existing concerns as British American Tobacco Plc, ITC’s largest shareholder, has been steadily trimming its stake. Jefferies analysts, led by Vivek Maheshwari, warned that higher prices could hurt demand and revive risks of consumers shifting to illicit cigarette markets. They estimate ITC may need to raise prices by at least 15% to offset the impact of the new taxes. The higher excise duty comes on top of the 40% Goods and Services Tax applied to tobacco products, also effective from February 1. The government has said the move is meant to compensate for revenue losses resulting from broad tax reductions announced in September. India is home to more than 253 million tobacco users, the second-largest such population worldwide. The finance ministry estimates that tobacco-related illnesses impose an annual economic burden of over ₹2.4 trillion on the country. Authorities have intensified efforts to curb tobacco consumption, including new taxes on manufacturing equipment and proposed restrictions on advertising, such as banning promotions during Indian Premier League matches. The finance ministry maintains that keeping tobacco products expensive is one of the most effective ways to reduce consumption and insists that higher taxes will not encourage smuggling or illegal trade.

ITC and Godfrey Phillips shares fell sharply after government announced a major cigarette tax hike, raising concerns over volumes, margins, and illicit trade risks

All the central government employees are expecting to increase in their salaries after the 8th Pay Commission comes into effect on January 1, 2026. The 8th Pay Commission was announced by the central government in January 2025. The Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission was issued by the Union Cabinet, which will review salaries, allowances and pension benefits for central government employees and pensioners.&nbsp;Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.<h3>6th Pay Commission salary hike</h3>Under the 6th Pay Commission, a fitment factor of 1.92 led to a 1.92-fold rise in basic pay. The minimum basic salary rose from Rs 3,200 under the 5th Pay Commission to Rs 7,440, while the maximum increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 90,000.<h3>7th Pay Commission salary hike</h3>The 7th Pay Commission applied a fitment factor of 2.57, resulting in a similar increase in basic pay and pensions. The minimum basic pay went up from Rs 7,440 to Rs 18,000, and the maximum climbed from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh.<h3>What is the 8th Pay Commission's projected salary hike?</h3>For the 8th Pay Commission, experts estimate that the fitment factor could range between 1.8 and 2.86, though no official announcement has been made yet. A higher factor would mean a bigger rise in the basic salary. For instance, if a factor of 2.15 is adopted and an employee currently earns a basic salary of Rs 50,000, the revised basic pay would be calculated by multiplying the existing salary by 2.15. (Rs 50,000x2.5 = 1,25,0000)&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-8th-pay-commission-to-da-hikes-10-changes-for-india-s-central-govt-employees-and-pensioners-in-2025-1766482829774">From 8th Pay Commission to DA hikes: 10 changes for India's central govt employees and pensioners in 2025</a>

Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.

All the central government employees are expecting to increase in their salaries after the 8th Pay Commission comes into effect on January 1, 2026. The 8th Pay Commission was announced by the central government in January 2025. The Terms of Reference (ToR) of the 8th Central Pay Commission was issued by the Union Cabinet, which will review salaries, allowances and pension benefits for central government employees and pensioners. Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor. 6th Pay Commission salary hike Under the 6th Pay Commission, a fitment factor of 1.92 led to a 1.92-fold rise in basic pay. The minimum basic salary rose from Rs 3,200 under the 5th Pay Commission to Rs 7,440, while the maximum increased from Rs 30,000 to Rs 90,000. 7th Pay Commission salary hike The 7th Pay Commission applied a fitment factor of 2.57, resulting in a similar increase in basic pay and pensions. The minimum basic pay went up from Rs 7,440 to Rs 18,000, and the maximum climbed from Rs 90,000 to Rs 2.5 lakh. What is the 8th Pay Commission's projected salary hike? For the 8th Pay Commission, experts estimate that the fitment factor could range between 1.8 and 2.86, though no official announcement has been made yet. A higher factor would mean a bigger rise in the basic salary. For instance, if a factor of 2.15 is adopted and an employee currently earns a basic salary of Rs 50,000, the revised basic pay would be calculated by multiplying the existing salary by 2.15. (Rs 50,000x2.5 = 1,25,0000) Also read: From 8th Pay Commission to DA hikes: 10 changes for India's central govt employees and pensioners in 2025

Along with the employees, pensioners also expect a high fitment factor in order to receive a good amount of arrears and pension in the future. However, the actual increase in salaries and pensions will be clear only after the Centre finalises the fitment factor.

8th Pay Commission effective from January 1: What is the projected salary hike? Check inside

India is aiming to set up new small nuclear reactors as the South Asian nation moves towards energy self-sufficiency. As part of its decarbonisation push, India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 while reducing pollution and strengthening energy security. India is actively pursuing small nuclear reactors, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as part of this transition. A key element of this strategy is the development of 220 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)–based Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), outlined as part of an ambitious plan linked to the SHANTI Bill passed in December. A major shift is the involvement of private players in India’s nuclear energy sector, opening up what is projected to be a $214 billion market. Here is everything you need to know.<h2>What are Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)?</h2>Bharat Small Reactors are small nuclear reactors whose designs are based on proven 220 MWe PHWR technology developed in India since the 1980s. These reactors can be deployed in remote areas and at industrial sites, replacing coal-fired power units.The reactors are aligned with the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047 framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. BSRs were first announced in August 2023, with the government allocating funds for their development.The design stage for a small modular nuclear reactor was completed by March 2025. Initial sites for BSRs include Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-impressive-contribution-to-energy-needs-russia-to-build-india-s-largest-nuclear-power-plant-in-kudankulam-says-putin-1764929473586">‘Impressive contribution to energy needs’: Russia to build India’s largest nuclear power plant in Kudankulam, says Putin</a><h2>Private participation in developing India's small nuclear reactors</h2>The most significant aspect of the BSR programme is that, unlike in the past, the government is involving private players. &nbsp;The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in December 2024 for the deployment of 220 MWe PHWR-based BSRs. The RFP seeks “visionary Indian industries” to finance, site, and build twin-unit reactors, primarily for captive power use in energy-intensive sectors such as steel, aluminium, and chemicals.The tender is open to Indian companies or consortia with demonstrated financial and technical capability. Criteria include environmental clearances and a commitment to funding construction.NPCIL will provide reactor design, engineering, safety oversight, and operations under a build-own-operate model. Along with the Department of Atomic Energy, NPCIL will also handle fuel supply and waste management.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kudankulam-nuclear-plant-unit-3-in-pre-commissioning-phase-rosatom-1762774335529">Kudankulam Nuclear plant Unit-3 in pre-commissioning phase: Rosatom</a>The original deadline of March 31, 2025 was extended several times and is now March 31, 2026, to broaden participation.At least six major companies have expressed interest, including Reliance Industries, Adani Power, Tata Power, Jindal Steel &amp; Power, JSW Energy, and Hindalco Industries.Industry players have already proposed five sites in Gujarat, four in Madhya Pradesh, three in Odisha, two in Andhra Pradesh, and one each in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.<h2>What is the SHANTI Bill 2025?</h2>The SHANTI Bill, short for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, is a landmark reform passed on December 15. It repeals the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which had restricted nuclear activities to government entities.It also repeals the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, to create a consolidated and modern regulatory framework.&nbsp;Restrictions on private participation had long hindered the growth of India’s nuclear sector, even as the country targets 100 GWe of installed nuclear capacity by 2047.The SHANTI Bill aims to promote sustainable nuclear energy, enhance safety, and attract private and foreign investment for clean energy and energy security.It allows Indian companies, government-private joint ventures, or authorised entities to obtain licences for building, owning, operating, and decommissioning nuclear plants. Foreign-incorporated firms are excluded.The bill is limited to non-sensitive activities such as power generation and equipment manufacturing, while core fuel cycle activities remain restricted.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/japan-earthquake-and-tsunami-what-we-know-about-the-nuclear-power-plants-1765252837054">Japan earthquake and tsunami: What we know about the nuclear power plants</a><h2>Liability framework and regulation under SHANTI Bill</h2>The bill maintains no-fault liability for operators with mandatory insurance and introduces tiered liability caps. It removes automatic operator recourse against suppliers for defects.The overall accident liability ceiling is set at 300 million Special Drawing Rights, aligning with global norms.The bill grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and establishes the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for appeals, with further recourse to the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed</a><h2>Controversy over the SHANTI Bill</h2>The SHANTI Bill has faced criticism over allegedly lax provisions, particularly the removal of supplier liability, which critics argue favours foreign vendors and weakens accountability in the event of accidents. Proponents of the bill counter that it modernises the sector, boosts innovation, attracts investment, and creates jobs.<h2>India’s nuclear energy future</h2>India aims to reach 100 GWe of nuclear capacity by 2047, which would meet nearly 10 per cent of its projected electricity demand. Interim targets include 22.5 GWe by 2031.The Nuclear Energy Mission, announced in February 2025, plans to have at least five Indian-designed SMRs operational by 2033, primarily utilising India’s three-stage thorium fuel cycle with an emphasis on domestic resources.India is also aiming to partner with France and the US for advanced SMR technologies.

India plans to deploy Bharat Small Reactors, as the SHANTI Bill opens up nuclear power sector to private players. Will it boost clean energy, energy security, and net-zero goals from 2026? Here is all you need to know

India is aiming to set up new small nuclear reactors as the South Asian nation moves towards energy self-sufficiency. As part of its decarbonisation push, India aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070 while reducing pollution and strengthening energy security. India is actively pursuing small nuclear reactors, including small modular reactors (SMRs), as part of this transition. A key element of this strategy is the development of 220 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)–based Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), outlined as part of an ambitious plan linked to the SHANTI Bill passed in December. A major shift is the involvement of private players in India’s nuclear energy sector, opening up what is projected to be a $214 billion market. Here is everything you need to know. What are Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)? Bharat Small Reactors are small nuclear reactors whose designs are based on proven 220 MWe PHWR technology developed in India since the 1980s. These reactors can be deployed in remote areas and at industrial sites, replacing coal-fired power units. The reactors are aligned with the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) 2047 framework of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. BSRs were first announced in August 2023, with the government allocating funds for their development. The design stage for a small modular nuclear reactor was completed by March 2025. Initial sites for BSRs include Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. Also read: ‘Impressive contribution to energy needs’: Russia to build India’s largest nuclear power plant in Kudankulam, says Putin Private participation in developing India's small nuclear reactors The most significant aspect of the BSR programme is that, unlike in the past, the government is involving private players. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in December 2024 for the deployment of 220 MWe PHWR-based BSRs. The RFP seeks “visionary Indian industries” to finance, site, and build twin-unit reactors, primarily for captive power use in energy-intensive sectors such as steel, aluminium, and chemicals. The tender is open to Indian companies or consortia with demonstrated financial and technical capability. Criteria include environmental clearances and a commitment to funding construction. NPCIL will provide reactor design, engineering, safety oversight, and operations under a build-own-operate model. Along with the Department of Atomic Energy, NPCIL will also handle fuel supply and waste management. Also read: Kudankulam Nuclear plant Unit-3 in pre-commissioning phase: Rosatom The original deadline of March 31, 2025 was extended several times and is now March 31, 2026, to broaden participation. At least six major companies have expressed interest, including Reliance Industries, Adani Power, Tata Power, Jindal Steel & Power, JSW Energy, and Hindalco Industries.Industry players have already proposed five sites in Gujarat, four in Madhya Pradesh, three in Odisha, two in Andhra Pradesh, and one each in Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. What is the SHANTI Bill 2025? The SHANTI Bill, short for the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, is a landmark reform passed on December 15. It repeals the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which had restricted nuclear activities to government entities. It also repeals the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, to create a consolidated and modern regulatory framework. Restrictions on private participation had long hindered the growth of India’s nuclear sector, even as the country targets 100 GWe of installed nuclear capacity by 2047. The SHANTI Bill aims to promote sustainable nuclear energy, enhance safety, and attract private and foreign investment for clean energy and energy security. It allows Indian companies, government-private joint ventures, or authorised entities to obtain licences for building, owning, operating, and decommissioning nuclear plants. Foreign-incorporated firms are excluded. The bill is limited to non-sensitive activities such as power generation and equipment manufacturing, while core fuel cycle activities remain restricted. Also read: Japan earthquake and tsunami: What we know about the nuclear power plants Liability framework and regulation under SHANTI Bill The bill maintains no-fault liability for operators with mandatory insurance and introduces tiered liability caps. It removes automatic operator recourse against suppliers for defects. The overall accident liability ceiling is set at 300 million Special Drawing Rights, aligning with global norms. The bill grants statutory status to the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and establishes the Atomic Energy Redressal Advisory Council for appeals, with further recourse to the Appellate Tribunal for Electricity. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-considers-restarting-world-s-largest-nuclear-plant-in-niigata-1766384372138/embed Controversy over the SHANTI Bill The SHANTI Bill has faced criticism over allegedly lax provisions, particularly the removal of supplier liability, which critics argue favours foreign vendors and weakens accountability in the event of accidents. Proponents of the bill counter that it modernises the sector, boosts innovation, attracts investment, and creates jobs. India’s nuclear energy future India aims to reach 100 GWe of nuclear capacity by 2047, which would meet nearly 10 per cent of its projected electricity demand. Interim targets include 22.5 GWe by 2031. The Nuclear Energy Mission, announced in February 2025, plans to have at least five Indian-designed SMRs operational by 2033, primarily utilising India’s three-stage thorium fuel cycle with an emphasis on domestic resources. India is also aiming to partner with France and the US for advanced SMR technologies.

India plans to deploy Bharat Small Reactors, as the SHANTI Bill opens up nuclear power sector to private players. Will it boost clean energy, energy security, and net-zero goals from 2026? Here is all you need to know

Will India’s small nuclear reactor ambitions take wing in 2026? BSRs, private participation, SHANTI Bill: What you should know

Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, exited as CEO of the American holding company Berkshire Hathaway at the age of 95, after a 60-year tenure, as was planned on the last day of 2025. The legendary investor and philanthropist will remain as the company’s chairman. In his final Thanksgiving letter to shareholders on 10 November he had said “As the British would say, I’m ‘going quiet.’ Sort of.” Buffett will also stop writing Berkshire’s annual reports and ‘talking endlessly’ at shareholder meetings, having transformed what was once a struggling textile company into a $1 trillion-plus conglomerate.<h2>Not a complete withdrawal: What Warren Buffet said on his exit as CEO</h2>On his health, Buffett, who will continue annual Thanksgiving messages to shareholders and his children, had said: “To my surprise, I generally feel good. Though I move slowly and read with increasing difficulty, I am at the office five days a week where I work with wonderful people.”Reflecting on his 60-year journey, Buffett reminisced about his partnership with Charlie Munger, who passed in 2023, and key investment moves, like taking a stake in insurance firm GEICO.“Decide what you would like your obituary to say and live the life to deserve it,” he said in his final ‘Thanksgiving letter’, asking leaders to prioritise legacy over short-term gains.<h2>What will Buffett do now?</h2>Besides continuing as Berkshire chariman, Buffett, who holds about $149 billion in its stock, plans to donate the vast majority of it before his death. He converted 1,800 Class A shares into Class B shares - a category he had introduced - for distribution to four family foundations: The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, The Howard G Buffett Foundation, and NoVo Foundation.<h2>Who will succeed Buffett?</h2>Greg Abel will now take over as the CEO of Berkshire. “He has more than met the high expectations I had for him when I first thought he should be Berkshire’s next CEO,” Buffett said.Abel, a Canadian accountant, joined Berkshire in 2000 via its acquisition of MidAmerican Energy and has overseen non-insurance units.As Buffet leaves, Berkshire is sitting on a large cash pile but he had words of caution: “No matter how serene today may be, tomorrow is always uncertain.”Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/warren-buffett-invests-4-3-billion-in-alphabet-inc-as-google-parent-stock-dances-to-new-highs-1763361155203">Warren Buffett invests $4.3 billion in Alphabet Inc as Google parent stock dances to new highs</a><h2>Warren Buffett: Life and investment career&nbsp;</h2>Warren Edward Buffett was born on 30 August 1930 in Omaha, Nebraska, during the Great Depression to a US congressman and stockbroker, Howard Homan Buffett. He bought his first stock, of Cities Service, at the age of 11, and filed his first tax return at 13, famously deducting his bicycle as a work expense.By high school, Buffett ran ventures like newspaper delivery and pinball machines, earning $5,000.Buffett attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business but transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, graduating at 19 with a business degree. He earned a master’s in economics from Columbia Business School in 1951, studying under Benjamin Graham, who is known as the father of value investing.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed</a>Buffett followed Graham’s principles such as buying undervalued stocks with a “margin of safety”. He worked at Buffett-Falk &amp; Co. and as a securities analyst at Graham-Newman Corp until Graham’s retirement.In 1956, aged 25, Buffet launched Buffett Partnership Ltd in Omaha with $105,100. He made annualised returns of 29.5 per cent through 1969. He dissolved the partnerships in 1969 and returned capital to investors.<h2>How Warren Buffett turned around Berkshire Hathaway</h2>What is now Berkshire Hathaway is a New England firm that started in 1839 as a textile manufacturer named Valley Falls Company. It was declining in the 1960s due to foreign competition. In 1962, Buffett started buying shares in Berkshire Hathaway. He gained control of the company by 1965, and ousted the management after a dispute over a tender offer. From textiles, Buffett moved the company to insurance, acquiring National Indemnity in 1967. Berkshire's initial acquisitions were See’s Candies and Buffalo Evening News, starting a period of buying “wonderful businesses at fair prices.”His major investments and acquisitions include Coca-Cola, GEICO, BNSF Railway, and stakes in Apple, making an unexpected tech play. Other acquisitions such as Nebraska Furniture Mart, Borsheims, Precision Castparts and Duracell also bore frruit for Berkshire.Under Buffett, Berkshire shares rose dramatically over decades. By 2025, Berkshire Hathaway became one of the first non-tech American companies to hit a $1 trillion market capitalisation. At the close of the year, its Class A shares were trading around $755,400. That's a massive growth from 1965’s $19 per share.Berkshire outperformed the S&amp;P index in many of the years through 2023. Today, it is a diversified conglomerate including insurance, railroads, energy and consumer goods with about 400,000 employees. &nbsp;Buffett’s annual letters to shareholders, and speeches, became investing gospel, where he blended humour, lessons, and transparency.<h2>Buffett lived frugally even as he was among the world’s richest</h2>Buffett’s net worth has been among the highest in the world, peaking near $150 billion in late 2025, making him among the top 10 richest people globally. But he never showed off his wealth, living frugally in his 1958 Omaha home, and drawing a modest salary. He chose long-term value investing, compound interest, and ethical management over aggressive trade practices.He has donated billions via the Giving Pledge initiative since 2010.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/-playing-with-fire-is-us-stock-market-going-to-crash-warren-buffet-s-indicator-says-yes-1761205822466">‘Playing with fire’: Is US stock market going to crash? Warren Buffet's indicator says yes..</a><h2>Who will lead Berkshire now?</h2>Greg Abel, a Canadian accountant who joined Berkshire in 2000 via MidAmerican Energy, which is now Berkshire Hathaway Energy, rose to leadership in 2008 and was named Buffett’s successor in 2021, officially becoming CEO from New Year's Day of &nbsp;January 2026. Investment duties will primarily go to Ted Weschler and Todd Combs, who have been portfolio managers since around 2010. Ajit Jain remains vice chairman of insurance.Buffett will stay as chairman, ensuring continuity.

Warren Buffett steps down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after 60 years. What will he do next and who will succeed him at the firm that has topped $1 trillion market cap?


Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, exited as CEO of the American holding company Berkshire Hathaway at the age of 95, after a 60-year tenure, as was planned on the last day of 2025. The legendary investor and philanthropist will remain as the company’s chairman. In his final Thanksgiving letter to shareholders on 10 November he had said “As the British would say, I’m ‘going quiet.’ Sort of.” Buffett will also stop writing Berkshire’s annual reports and ‘talking endlessly’ at shareholder meetings, having transformed what was once a struggling textile company into a $1 trillion-plus conglomerate. Not a complete withdrawal: What Warren Buffet said on his exit as CEO On his health, Buffett, who will continue annual Thanksgiving messages to shareholders and his children, had said: “To my surprise, I generally feel good. Though I move slowly and read with increasing difficulty, I am at the office five days a week where I work with wonderful people.” Reflecting on his 60-year journey, Buffett reminisced about his partnership with Charlie Munger, who passed in 2023, and key investment moves, like taking a stake in insurance firm GEICO. “Decide what you would like your obituary to say and live the life to deserve it,” he said in his final ‘Thanksgiving letter’, asking leaders to prioritise legacy over short-term gains. What will Buffett do now? Besides continuing as Berkshire chariman, Buffett, who holds about $149 billion in its stock, plans to donate the vast majority of it before his death. He converted 1,800 Class A shares into Class B shares - a category he had introduced - for distribution to four family foundations: The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, The Sherwood Foundation, The Howard G Buffett Foundation, and NoVo Foundation. Who will succeed Buffett? Greg Abel will now take over as the CEO of Berkshire. “He has more than met the high expectations I had for him when I first thought he should be Berkshire’s next CEO,” Buffett said. Abel, a Canadian accountant, joined Berkshire in 2000 via its acquisition of MidAmerican Energy and has overseen non-insurance units. As Buffet leaves, Berkshire is sitting on a large cash pile but he had words of caution: “No matter how serene today may be, tomorrow is always uncertain.” Also read: Warren Buffett invests $4.3 billion in Alphabet Inc as Google parent stock dances to new highs Warren Buffett: Life and investment career Warren Edward Buffett was born on 30 August 1930 in Omaha, Nebraska, during the Great Depression to a US congressman and stockbroker, Howard Homan Buffett. He bought his first stock, of Cities Service, at the age of 11, and filed his first tax return at 13, famously deducting his bicycle as a work expense. By high school, Buffett ran ventures like newspaper delivery and pinball machines, earning $5,000. Buffett attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business but transferred to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, graduating at 19 with a business degree. He earned a master’s in economics from Columbia Business School in 1951, studying under Benjamin Graham, who is known as the father of value investing. https://www.wionews.com/videos/warren-buffett-confirms-ceo-transition-timeline-1762838597589/embed Buffett followed Graham’s principles such as buying undervalued stocks with a “margin of safety”. He worked at Buffett-Falk & Co. and as a securities analyst at Graham-Newman Corp until Graham’s retirement. In 1956, aged 25, Buffet launched Buffett Partnership Ltd in Omaha with $105,100. He made annualised returns of 29.5 per cent through 1969. He dissolved the partnerships in 1969 and returned capital to investors. How Warren Buffett turned around Berkshire Hathaway What is now Berkshire Hathaway is a New England firm that started in 1839 as a textile manufacturer named Valley Falls Company. It was declining in the 1960s due to foreign competition. In 1962, Buffett started buying shares in Berkshire Hathaway. He gained control of the company by 1965, and ousted the management after a dispute over a tender offer. From textiles, Buffett moved the company to insurance, acquiring National Indemnity in 1967. Berkshire's initial acquisitions were See’s Candies and Buffalo Evening News, starting a period of buying “wonderful businesses at fair prices.” His major investments and acquisitions include Coca-Cola, GEICO, BNSF Railway, and stakes in Apple, making an unexpected tech play. Other acquisitions such as Nebraska Furniture Mart, Borsheims, Precision Castparts and Duracell also bore frruit for Berkshire. Under Buffett, Berkshire shares rose dramatically over decades. By 2025, Berkshire Hathaway became one of the first non-tech American companies to hit a $1 trillion market capitalisation. At the close of the year, its Class A shares were trading around $755,400. That's a massive growth from 1965’s $19 per share. Berkshire outperformed the S&P index in many of the years through 2023. Today, it is a diversified conglomerate including insurance, railroads, energy and consumer goods with about 400,000 employees. Buffett’s annual letters to shareholders, and speeches, became investing gospel, where he blended humour, lessons, and transparency. Buffett lived frugally even as he was among the world’s richest Buffett’s net worth has been among the highest in the world, peaking near $150 billion in late 2025, making him among the top 10 richest people globally. But he never showed off his wealth, living frugally in his 1958 Omaha home, and drawing a modest salary. He chose long-term value investing, compound interest, and ethical management over aggressive trade practices. He has donated billions via the Giving Pledge initiative since 2010. Also read: ‘Playing with fire’: Is US stock market going to crash? Warren Buffet's indicator says yes.. Who will lead Berkshire now? Greg Abel, a Canadian accountant who joined Berkshire in 2000 via MidAmerican Energy, which is now Berkshire Hathaway Energy, rose to leadership in 2008 and was named Buffett’s successor in 2021, officially becoming CEO from New Year's Day of January 2026. Investment duties will primarily go to Ted Weschler and Todd Combs, who have been portfolio managers since around 2010. Ajit Jain remains vice chairman of insurance. Buffett will stay as chairman, ensuring continuity.

Warren Buffett steps down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway after 60 years. What will he do next and who will succeed him at the firm that has topped $1 trillion market cap? &nbsp;

Warren Buffett exits as Berkshire Hathaway CEO. What happens next as the Oracle of Omaha ‘goes quiet, sort of’?

Food delivery platforms Zomato and Swiggy have announced increased incentives for their delivery workers on New Year’s Eve, calling it part of their standard festive policy. This comes as gig workers’ unions have planned a nationwide strike for December 31, demanding higher earnings, safer working conditions, and better treatment on the job. As per an Eternal spokesperson, the raised payouts aim to ensure minimal disruptions during one of the busiest food delivery days of the year.&nbsp;Zomato said it would pay its delivery partners between Rs 120 and Rs 150 per order during peak hours, from 6 pm to 12 am on New Year’s Eve. The company also promised total earnings of up to Rs 3,000 depending on the number of orders completed and worker availability. In addition, penalties for canceled or declined orders have been temporarily lifted. Swiggy, on the other hand, is offering delivery partners the chance to earn up to Rs 10,000 across the weekend, with the highest payouts of up to Rs 2,000 for the six hours from 6 pm to midnight on New Year's Eve.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both companies are using these enhanced incentives to attract workers during a peak period that usually sees a sharp rise in food orders. However, these incentive increases come amid mounting dissatisfaction from gig workers. The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) have called for a nationwide strike, which they say could impact major delivery companies like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, and others during the high-demand holiday period. More than 1.7 lakh gig workers have reportedly committed to the strike, with more expected to join as the day progresses.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-lauds-india-for-surpassing-japan-becoming-world-s-fourth-largest-economy-1767177928026">China lauds India for surpassing Japan, becoming world's fourth largest economy</a>&nbsp;The unions claim that recent changes in pay structures and the push for faster deliveries have led to lower earnings and heightened pressure on workers, which has sparked ongoing protests. They are demanding that companies revert to the previous payout system and remove the 10-minute delivery mandate, which they argue puts unsafe stress on delivery staff.&nbsp;The workers’ grievances also highlight a lack of communication from the companies, especially after a similar strike on December 25. Unions accused the platforms of ignoring their concerns regarding unsafe working conditions and falling pay, leaving them with no option but to proceed with the planned December 31 strike.&nbsp;To address these concerns, Telangana's labor minister, Vivek Venkatswamy, announced the approval of the Gig and&nbsp;Platform Workers Welfare Bill, 2025. In a video message, he acknowledged the growing challenges faced by gig workers, saying that their income has been decreasing while work pressure has increased. The minister also criticised the 10-minute delivery model, which he believes exacerbates the difficulties workers face.

Zomato, Swiggy announce special incentives amid delivery workers' nationwide protest for NYE

Food delivery platforms Zomato and Swiggy have announced increased incentives for their delivery workers on New Year’s Eve, calling it part of their standard festive policy. This comes as gig workers’ unions have planned a nationwide strike for December 31, demanding higher earnings, safer working conditions, and better treatment on the job. As per an Eternal spokesperson, the raised payouts aim to ensure minimal disruptions during one of the busiest food delivery days of the year. Zomato said it would pay its delivery partners between Rs 120 and Rs 150 per order during peak hours, from 6 pm to 12 am on New Year’s Eve. The company also promised total earnings of up to Rs 3,000 depending on the number of orders completed and worker availability. In addition, penalties for canceled or declined orders have been temporarily lifted. Swiggy, on the other hand, is offering delivery partners the chance to earn up to Rs 10,000 across the weekend, with the highest payouts of up to Rs 2,000 for the six hours from 6 pm to midnight on New Year's Eve. Both companies are using these enhanced incentives to attract workers during a peak period that usually sees a sharp rise in food orders. However, these incentive increases come amid mounting dissatisfaction from gig workers. The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT) have called for a nationwide strike, which they say could impact major delivery companies like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, and others during the high-demand holiday period. More than 1.7 lakh gig workers have reportedly committed to the strike, with more expected to join as the day progresses. Also Read: China lauds India for surpassing Japan, becoming world's fourth largest economy The unions claim that recent changes in pay structures and the push for faster deliveries have led to lower earnings and heightened pressure on workers, which has sparked ongoing protests. They are demanding that companies revert to the previous payout system and remove the 10-minute delivery mandate, which they argue puts unsafe stress on delivery staff. The workers’ grievances also highlight a lack of communication from the companies, especially after a similar strike on December 25. Unions accused the platforms of ignoring their concerns regarding unsafe working conditions and falling pay, leaving them with no option but to proceed with the planned December 31 strike. To address these concerns, Telangana's labor minister, Vivek Venkatswamy, announced the approval of the Gig and Platform Workers Welfare Bill, 2025. In a video message, he acknowledged the growing challenges faced by gig workers, saying that their income has been decreasing while work pressure has increased. The minister also criticised the 10-minute delivery model, which he believes exacerbates the difficulties workers face.

Zomato and Swiggy have announced higher incentives for delivery workers on New Year’s Eve, amid a nationwide strike by gig workers seeking better pay and conditions

India has officially overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, with projections indicating that it will soon surpass Germany and claim the third spot by 2028. According to India’s year-end economic review, the country’s GDP has reached approximately $4.18 trillion, and is forecast to grow to $7.3 trillion by 2030, positioning it just behind China and the United States in economic size.&nbsp;On the international stage, China has offered its congratulations to India for this economic milestone. Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, praised India’s achievement, saying that India’s rise demonstrates the strength that comes from confronting its history honestly, learning from it, and taking responsibility for the future. In a tweet, she wrote, “Delighted to know that India🇮🇳 is poised to surpass Japan🇯🇵 to become the world's 4th largest economy. India's rise shows that true strength comes from facing history honestly, learning from it, and taking responsibility for the future.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/disney-to-pay-10-million-to-settle-privacy-allegation-over-children-s-videos-on-youtube-1767174844315">Disney to pay $10 million to settle privacy allegation over children’s videos on YouTube</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Delighted to know that India🇮🇳 is poised to surpass Japan🇯🇵 to become the world&#39;s 4th largest economy 📈 India&#39;s rise shows that true strength comes from facing history honestly, learning from it, and taking responsibility for the future. 📜➡🚀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GlobalEconomy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GlobalEconomy</a>… <a href="https://t.co/RLRK1gt08P">pic.twitter.com/RLRK1gt08P</a>&mdash; Yu Jing (@ChinaSpox_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChinaSpox_India/status/2006276639534244076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The country's growth has been strong, with an impressive 8.2% GDP growth in the second quarter of fiscal year 2025–26, marking the highest quarterly growth in six quarters. Additionally, India’s export sector is thriving, with merchandise exports reaching $38.13 billion in November 2025, driven by strong performances in sectors like engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products.&nbsp;This growth is largely fueled by robust domestic demand, particularly private consumption, despite global trade challenges and policy uncertainties. India’s government has described this period as a rare "Goldilocks" moment, with the economy experiencing high growth and low inflation. Corporate finances remain strong, credit is flowing steadily, and ongoing reforms continue to provide a solid foundation for long-term growth.&nbsp;However, India still faces challenges. Despite rapid growth, its GDP per capita remains relatively low compared to advanced economies. In 2024, India’s GDP per capita stood at $2,694, significantly lower than Japan’s and Germany’s. The nation’s large population, now surpassing 1.4 billion people, also poses a challenge in terms of creating sufficient, high-quality job opportunities for millions of young graduates. India’s economic ambitions are clear: by 2047, the centenary of its independence, the country aims to achieve high middle-income status, building on its strong demographic advantage and expanding economy.

India has surpassed Japan to become the world's 4th largest economy. With praise from China, India aims to overtake Germany by 2028, driven by strong domestic growth

India has officially overtaken Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, with projections indicating that it will soon surpass Germany and claim the third spot by 2028. According to India’s year-end economic review, the country’s GDP has reached approximately $4.18 trillion, and is forecast to grow to $7.3 trillion by 2030, positioning it just behind China and the United States in economic size. On the international stage, China has offered its congratulations to India for this economic milestone. Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, praised India’s achievement, saying that India’s rise demonstrates the strength that comes from confronting its history honestly, learning from it, and taking responsibility for the future. In a tweet, she wrote, “Delighted to know that India🇮🇳 is poised to surpass Japan🇯🇵 to become the world's 4th largest economy. India's rise shows that true strength comes from facing history honestly, learning from it, and taking responsibility for the future.” Also Read: Disney to pay $10 million to settle privacy allegation over children’s videos on YouTube

India has surpassed Japan to become the world's 4th largest economy. With praise from China, India aims to overtake Germany by 2028, driven by strong domestic growth

China lauds India for surpassing Japan, becoming world's fourth largest economy

The Walt Disney Company has agreed to pay $10 million (£7.4 million) to resolve claims that it has breached US children’s privacy laws by not properly designating some of its YouTube videos as made for children, which reportedly enabled targeted advertising and the collection of personal data without parental consent.&nbsp;The US Department of Justice said on Tuesday that the settlements stem from a US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation into Disney’s data practices on third-party platforms. The agreement was first announced in September and formalised through a federal court order.&nbsp;According to regulators, Disney did not label certain videos as child-directed despite their clearly child-oriented nature. This reportedly led to children being shown targeted ads and having their personal data gathered without adequate parental notice or consent.<h3>Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)</h3>The allegations relate to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), a 1998 law that limits how personal data from children under 13 can be collected and used. COPPA requires content creators to inform parents and obtain verifiable consent before collecting such information.&nbsp;As per the FTC, the alleged mislabelling of Disney threatens safeguards designed to curb targeted advertising on children’s content, particularly on platforms such as YouTube. Based on the settlement, Disney also agreed to develop a compliance programme to ensure compliance with the data protection laws for children.&nbsp;The Department of Justice stated that the programme is planned to stop such violations in the future. “The Justice Department is firmly devoted to ensuring parents have a say in how their children's information is collected and used,” Brett Shumate, an assistant attorney general in the Justice Department's civil division, said in a statement announcing the court order.&nbsp;Previously, the company has stated that the settlement applies only to the distribution of some Disney content on YouTube and does not include Disney-owned and operated digital platforms.

The US Department of Justice said on Tuesday that the settlements stem from a US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation into Disney’s data practices on third-party platforms. The agreement was first announced in September and formalised through a federal court order.

The Walt Disney Company has agreed to pay $10 million (£7.4 million) to resolve claims that it has breached US children’s privacy laws by not properly designating some of its YouTube videos as made for children, which reportedly enabled targeted advertising and the collection of personal data without parental consent. The US Department of Justice said on Tuesday that the settlements stem from a US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation into Disney’s data practices on third-party platforms. The agreement was first announced in September and formalised through a federal court order. According to regulators, Disney did not label certain videos as child-directed despite their clearly child-oriented nature. This reportedly led to children being shown targeted ads and having their personal data gathered without adequate parental notice or consent. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) The allegations relate to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), a 1998 law that limits how personal data from children under 13 can be collected and used. COPPA requires content creators to inform parents and obtain verifiable consent before collecting such information. As per the FTC, the alleged mislabelling of Disney threatens safeguards designed to curb targeted advertising on children’s content, particularly on platforms such as YouTube. Based on the settlement, Disney also agreed to develop a compliance programme to ensure compliance with the data protection laws for children. The Department of Justice stated that the programme is planned to stop such violations in the future. “The Justice Department is firmly devoted to ensuring parents have a say in how their children's information is collected and used,” Brett Shumate, an assistant attorney general in the Justice Department's civil division, said in a statement announcing the court order. Previously, the company has stated that the settlement applies only to the distribution of some Disney content on YouTube and does not include Disney-owned and operated digital platforms.

The US Department of Justice said on Tuesday that the settlements stem from a US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) investigation into Disney’s data practices on third-party platforms. The agreement was first announced in September and formalised through a federal court order.

Disney to pay $10 million to settle privacy allegation over children’s videos on YouTube

India has overtaken Japan to become the fourth-largest economy globally, as confirmed by the Indian government's year-end economic review. According to the projections, India is on track to surpass Germany in the next few years and become the third-largest economy by 2028.<h2>What is India's GDP?</h2>India’s gross domestic product (GDP) has reached approximately $4.18 trillion, with forecasts suggesting it will grow to $7.3 trillion by 2030. On its current trajectory, India will only be behind the United States and China in terms of economic size. The country's GDP grew by 8.2% in the second quarter of the 2025–26 fiscal year, up from 7.8% in the previous quarter, marking the highest growth in six quarters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Additionally, India’s export sector is performing well, with merchandise exports hitting $38.13 billion in November 2025, a rise from $36.43 billion in January. This boost is driven by growth in engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products. However, the official confirmation of these figures will only be available in 2026 when the final annual GDP numbers are published. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has indicated that India is likely to surpass Japan in the coming year.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/is-gold-still-the-ultimate-safe-haven-in-2026-here-s-what-banks-and-analysts-forecast-1767102492267">Is gold still the ultimate safe haven in 2026? Here’s what banks and analysts forecast</a><h2>What is driving the Indian economy?</h2>The country's growth has largely been driven by domestic demand, especially robust private consumption, despite global trade challenges and policy uncertainty. The government described the current phase as a rare "Goldilocks" moment, combining high growth with low inflation. Strong corporate finances, steady credit flow, and ongoing reforms have set India on a path to sustained growth. With ambitions to reach high middle-income status by 2047, the centenary of its independence, India is building on solid foundations for both economic expansion and social progress.<h2>What are the challenges for India's economy going forward?</h2>Despite impressive growth, India’s income gap with advanced economies remains significant. In 2024, India’s GDP per capita stood at $2,694, which is about 12 times lower than Japan’s and 20 times less than Germany’s. As India’s population grew to 1.4 billion, it overtook China as the most populous nation in 2023. A major challenge lies ahead in creating enough well-paid jobs for millions of young graduates. However, the report remains optimistic, noting that India's demographic advantage, its young population, could fuel future growth if quality employment opportunities can be created.&nbsp;This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced large-scale consumption tax cuts and labor law reforms to boost the economy, following a slowdown to a four-year low. However, the rupee faced challenges, hitting an all-time low against the dollar in December 2025, partly due to concerns about trade relations with the U.S. and the effects of higher tariffs on Indian goods. India surpassed the UK to become the world's fifth-largest economy in 2022, and now, with its rapidly expanding economy, it’s set to move into third place soon.

India surpasses Japan to become world's fourth-largest economy, poised to overtake Germany soon: Report

India has overtaken Japan to become the fourth-largest economy globally, as confirmed by the Indian government's year-end economic review. According to the projections, India is on track to surpass Germany in the next few years and become the third-largest economy by 2028. What is India's GDP? India’s gross domestic product (GDP) has reached approximately $4.18 trillion, with forecasts suggesting it will grow to $7.3 trillion by 2030. On its current trajectory, India will only be behind the United States and China in terms of economic size. The country's GDP grew by 8.2% in the second quarter of the 2025–26 fiscal year, up from 7.8% in the previous quarter, marking the highest growth in six quarters. Additionally, India’s export sector is performing well, with merchandise exports hitting $38.13 billion in November 2025, a rise from $36.43 billion in January. This boost is driven by growth in engineering goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum products. However, the official confirmation of these figures will only be available in 2026 when the final annual GDP numbers are published. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has indicated that India is likely to surpass Japan in the coming year. Also Read: Is gold still the ultimate safe haven in 2026? Here’s what banks and analysts forecast What is driving the Indian economy? The country's growth has largely been driven by domestic demand, especially robust private consumption, despite global trade challenges and policy uncertainty. The government described the current phase as a rare "Goldilocks" moment, combining high growth with low inflation. Strong corporate finances, steady credit flow, and ongoing reforms have set India on a path to sustained growth. With ambitions to reach high middle-income status by 2047, the centenary of its independence, India is building on solid foundations for both economic expansion and social progress. What are the challenges for India's economy going forward? Despite impressive growth, India’s income gap with advanced economies remains significant. In 2024, India’s GDP per capita stood at $2,694, which is about 12 times lower than Japan’s and 20 times less than Germany’s. As India’s population grew to 1.4 billion, it overtook China as the most populous nation in 2023. A major challenge lies ahead in creating enough well-paid jobs for millions of young graduates. However, the report remains optimistic, noting that India's demographic advantage, its young population, could fuel future growth if quality employment opportunities can be created. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced large-scale consumption tax cuts and labor law reforms to boost the economy, following a slowdown to a four-year low. However, the rupee faced challenges, hitting an all-time low against the dollar in December 2025, partly due to concerns about trade relations with the U.S. and the effects of higher tariffs on Indian goods. India surpassed the UK to become the world's fifth-largest economy in 2022, and now, with its rapidly expanding economy, it’s set to move into third place soon.

India’s GDP has reached $4.18 trillion, overtaking Japan as the fourth-largest economy. It’s on track to surpass Germany by 2028 with rapid growth and reforms

After delivering its strongest annual performance since 1971, the gold rally of 2025 is expected to moderate in 2026, with prices likely to stabilise at a higher range of $4,000–$4,500. The prices of gold will be determined by the factors that include US Federal Reserve (Fed) easing, robust central bank and retail demand, ETF inflows, elevated stock/bond correlations, and global debt concerns.&nbsp;Meanwhile, major banks, including HSBC, ANZ, and Bank of America, updated their forecasts for 2026 and predicted that the rise of gold prices will be due to geopolitical risks in the US Federal Reserve policies and economic uncertainty. Analysts predicted that the demand for gold as a safe-haven and diversification asset will continue in 2026, according to a report in ET.&nbsp;HSBC bank indicated that gold could reach $5,000 per ounce by 2026, and the bank has also increased its 2025 average gold price forecast by $100 to $3,455 per ounce. It confirmed that the result of gold price will be driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic uncertainty, and a weakening US dollar.<h3>Gold price expected to decline after June 2026?</h3>The bank said the gold rally is expected to continue through the first half of 2026, supported by rising public debt levels and policy uncertainty. In addition, other major financial institutions have also revised the predictions of the gold price. ANZ predicted that gold is expected to rise to around $4,600 per ounce by June 2026. However, the price is expected to decline gradually in the second half of the year as the Federal Reserve concludes its easing cycle.&nbsp;Bank of America has lifted its gold price forecast for 2026 to $5,000 an ounce, while Goldman Sachs sees the metal reaching $4,900 by December that year. UBS said falling real interest rates, potentially turning negative, could drive prices close to $4,700.&nbsp;Societe Generale has also projected gold hitting $5,000 by the end of 2026. While estimates from Standard Chartered, Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank and Citi Research vary, they broadly agree that the outlook remains bullish through 2025 and into early 2026.&nbsp;Analysts say steady buying by central banks, retail investors and institutional funds will continue to underpin prices. Lower interest rates, policy uncertainty and diversification needs are expected to keep gold a key asset through 2026.&nbsp;

Analysts say steady buying by central banks, retail investors and institutional funds will continue to underpin prices. Lower interest rates, policy uncertainty and diversification needs are expected to keep gold a key asset through 2026.

After delivering its strongest annual performance since 1971, the gold rally of 2025 is expected to moderate in 2026, with prices likely to stabilise at a higher range of $4,000–$4,500. The prices of gold will be determined by the factors that include US Federal Reserve (Fed) easing, robust central bank and retail demand, ETF inflows, elevated stock/bond correlations, and global debt concerns. Meanwhile, major banks, including HSBC, ANZ, and Bank of America, updated their forecasts for 2026 and predicted that the rise of gold prices will be due to geopolitical risks in the US Federal Reserve policies and economic uncertainty. Analysts predicted that the demand for gold as a safe-haven and diversification asset will continue in 2026, according to a report in ET. HSBC bank indicated that gold could reach $5,000 per ounce by 2026, and the bank has also increased its 2025 average gold price forecast by $100 to $3,455 per ounce. It confirmed that the result of gold price will be driven by geopolitical tensions, global economic uncertainty, and a weakening US dollar. Gold price expected to decline after June 2026? The bank said the gold rally is expected to continue through the first half of 2026, supported by rising public debt levels and policy uncertainty. In addition, other major financial institutions have also revised the predictions of the gold price. ANZ predicted that gold is expected to rise to around $4,600 per ounce by June 2026. However, the price is expected to decline gradually in the second half of the year as the Federal Reserve concludes its easing cycle. Bank of America has lifted its gold price forecast for 2026 to $5,000 an ounce, while Goldman Sachs sees the metal reaching $4,900 by December that year. UBS said falling real interest rates, potentially turning negative, could drive prices close to $4,700. Societe Generale has also projected gold hitting $5,000 by the end of 2026. While estimates from Standard Chartered, Commerzbank, Deutsche Bank and Citi Research vary, they broadly agree that the outlook remains bullish through 2025 and into early 2026. Analysts say steady buying by central banks, retail investors and institutional funds will continue to underpin prices. Lower interest rates, policy uncertainty and diversification needs are expected to keep gold a key asset through 2026.

Analysts say steady buying by central banks, retail investors and institutional funds will continue to underpin prices. Lower interest rates, policy uncertainty and diversification needs are expected to keep gold a key asset through 2026.

Is gold still the ultimate safe haven in 2026? Here’s what banks and analysts forecast

Births in Japan for 2025 are set to fall below 670,000, the lowest number since national records began in 1899, and worse than the most pessimistic government projections. This fast population decline is raising a troubling question: Can Japan sustain its economy and society with so few young people? Here is an analysis of the symptoms and prognosis of this demographic time bomb.<h2>Japan’s population has been shrinking steadily since 2011</h2>In 2024 alone, deaths in Japan exceeded births by close to one million people. That was the first time that births fell below 700,000 for the first time since records began. Down 5.7 per cent from the previous year, this was the sharpest annual natural population decline for the Asian economic giant. The population, once 128 million, is now around 123 million and falling further.<h2>Core of the crisis: Extremely low fertility rate</h2>The Japanese fertility rate is around 1.14 children per woman, far below the replacement level of about 2.1, which is needed to maintain population stability.Economic insecurity is the main reason for women having fewer children. Stagnant wages, rising living costs, and expensive childcare are discouraging young adults from marrying or starting families. Marriage rates have fallen sharply in recent decades. Childbirth outside marriage remains socially uncommon, meaning lesser marriages directly lead to fewer births.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed</a><h2>Stressful life in Japan adding to low birth numbers</h2>Japan’s gruelling work culture of long hours and limited work-life balance are making parenting difficult. Gender inequality puts the childcare burden almost entirely on women. But more women are opting for education, careers, and independence. This leads to delays or rejections of traditional family models.<h2>Labour shortages hit Japan economy</h2>With lesser young people adding to the workforce every year, sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, caregiving, and services are seeing labour shortages. Production capacity is going down. Supply chains are strained. Costs for businesses are increasing.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faced-with-an-ageing-population-japan-to-open-doors-to-1-2m-foreign-workers-1766477397006">Faced with an ageing population, Japan to open doors to 1.2M+ foreign workers</a><h2>A rapidly ageing population puts pressure on public finances</h2>As of 2025, Japanese aged above 65 accounted for nearly 29 per cent of the total population. The fewer people in the workforce are support rising pension, healthcare, and eldercare expenses of the government. &nbsp;Domestic consumption is weak,as &nbsp;there are fewer young families. Long-term economic growth and innovation could be dampened by these factors.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-predicts-this-country-will-lose-1-million-people-in-2025-claims-ai-is-the-only-hope-netizens-slam-his-ad-1754898547397">Elon Musk predicts THIS country will lose 1 million people in 2025, claims 'AI is the only hope,' netizens slam his 'ad'</a><h2>Immigration: A cautious approach for replacement population</h2>Japan is making cautious steps towards immigration as a possible population replacement mechanism.Foreign workers are at a record high in Japan. Visa programmes for skilled and semi-skilled workers have been expanded, in industries with acute labour shortages. For instance, the government recently proposed accepting up to 1.23 million foreign workers by fiscal 2028 under a new Employment for Skill Development system and other programmes.Immigration is framed as a labour solution rather than a path to large-scale permanent settlement, meaning, foreigners can work but not necessarily start families.&nbsp; This is due to cultural concerns, language barriers, and political sensitivities. There are fears that the gradual replacement migration could alter the cultural fabric of a society long defined by homogeneity.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/japan-confronts-labor-shortages-as-elderly-population-reaches-record-high-760057">Japan confronts labor shortages as elderly population reaches record high</a><h2>Will Japan economy fail without enough people to run its future economy?</h2>A total economic collapse is unlikely, but Japan faces the real risk of stagnation. The country is a technological powerhouse, leading in automation and robotics.&nbsp;This can partially compensate for labour shortages. &nbsp;But machines cannot fully replace human workers, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and service industries that rely on human interaction and connection.Japan’s population crisis is no longer a distant problem but clear and present danger. How the country balances automation, social reform, and immigration will determine whether this population timebomb leads to managed adaptation or economic gloom.

Japan births for the year 2025 are reported to have fallen below 670,000, setting a new record. This is straining the economy, forcing reliance on automation and immigration.


Births in Japan for 2025 are set to fall below 670,000, the lowest number since national records began in 1899, and worse than the most pessimistic government projections. This fast population decline is raising a troubling question: Can Japan sustain its economy and society with so few young people? Here is an analysis of the symptoms and prognosis of this demographic time bomb. Japan’s population has been shrinking steadily since 2011 In 2024 alone, deaths in Japan exceeded births by close to one million people. That was the first time that births fell below 700,000 for the first time since records began. Down 5.7 per cent from the previous year, this was the sharpest annual natural population decline for the Asian economic giant. The population, once 128 million, is now around 123 million and falling further. Core of the crisis: Extremely low fertility rate The Japanese fertility rate is around 1.14 children per woman, far below the replacement level of about 2.1, which is needed to maintain population stability. Economic insecurity is the main reason for women having fewer children. Stagnant wages, rising living costs, and expensive childcare are discouraging young adults from marrying or starting families. Marriage rates have fallen sharply in recent decades. Childbirth outside marriage remains socially uncommon, meaning lesser marriages directly lead to fewer births. https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-pm-takaichi-sees-budget-surplus-despite-record-budget-1766814534095/embed Stressful life in Japan adding to low birth numbers Japan’s gruelling work culture of long hours and limited work-life balance are making parenting difficult. Gender inequality puts the childcare burden almost entirely on women. But more women are opting for education, careers, and independence. This leads to delays or rejections of traditional family models. Labour shortages hit Japan economy With lesser young people adding to the workforce every year, sectors such as manufacturing, construction, agriculture, caregiving, and services are seeing labour shortages. Production capacity is going down. Supply chains are strained. Costs for businesses are increasing. Also read: Faced with an ageing population, Japan to open doors to 1.2M+ foreign workers A rapidly ageing population puts pressure on public finances As of 2025, Japanese aged above 65 accounted for nearly 29 per cent of the total population. The fewer people in the workforce are support rising pension, healthcare, and eldercare expenses of the government. Domestic consumption is weak,as there are fewer young families. Long-term economic growth and innovation could be dampened by these factors. Also read: Elon Musk predicts THIS country will lose 1 million people in 2025, claims 'AI is the only hope,' netizens slam his 'ad' Immigration: A cautious approach for replacement population Japan is making cautious steps towards immigration as a possible population replacement mechanism. Foreign workers are at a record high in Japan. Visa programmes for skilled and semi-skilled workers have been expanded, in industries with acute labour shortages. For instance, the government recently proposed accepting up to 1.23 million foreign workers by fiscal 2028 under a new Employment for Skill Development system and other programmes. Immigration is framed as a labour solution rather than a path to large-scale permanent settlement, meaning, foreigners can work but not necessarily start families. This is due to cultural concerns, language barriers, and political sensitivities. There are fears that the gradual replacement migration could alter the cultural fabric of a society long defined by homogeneity. Also read: Japan confronts labor shortages as elderly population reaches record high Will Japan economy fail without enough people to run its future economy? A total economic collapse is unlikely, but Japan faces the real risk of stagnation. The country is a technological powerhouse, leading in automation and robotics. This can partially compensate for labour shortages. But machines cannot fully replace human workers, especially in sectors like healthcare, education, and service industries that rely on human interaction and connection. Japan’s population crisis is no longer a distant problem but clear and present danger. How the country balances automation, social reform, and immigration will determine whether this population timebomb leads to managed adaptation or economic gloom.

Japan births for the year 2025 are reported to have fallen below 670,000, setting a new record. This is straining the economy, forcing reliance on automation and immigration. &nbsp;

Japan births fell lowest on record in 2025: Won't it have enough people to run its future economy?

The central government on Friday (Dec 26) said that it continues to engage with the United States to finalise a bilateral trade agreement and that discussions have been held on contentious issues between both sides. New Delhi and Washington have been working out to conclude a trade agreement for months after President Trump announced baseline tariffs against its trade partners on April 2.&nbsp;Answering queries during the weekly media briefing concerning India-US bilateral trade agreement talks, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both governments continue to remain engaged with a view to concluding a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement.&nbsp;Jaiswal underlined a recent visit of a US negotiator led by &nbsp;Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer from December 9 to 11. During the visit, Switzer met with Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, and other senior Indian officials.&nbsp;On December 24, Indian envoy to the United States Vinay Kwatra held a meeting with US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor at US President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home in Florida.&nbsp;In a post on X, Kwatra said they had "extensive discussions on our shared goal to strengthen trade ties, as also his (Gor) plans and priorities for our bilateral partnership as he prepares to assume his responsibility as the US Ambassador to India!"&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-washington-of-first-red-line-sanctions-us-defence-firms-over-arms-sales-to-taiwan-trump-us-china-trade-war-tarrifs-1766746852607">China warns Washington of ‘first red line’, sanctions US defence firms over arms sales to Taiwan</a>&nbsp;Signalling forward movement in ongoing negotiations, India on December 24 announced reforms to remove red tape and ease its import quality checks, addressing an issue raised by the United States during trade talks.&nbsp;The regulatory restructuring is aimed at reducing paperwork, cutting time for checks and fewer inspections for quality approval, the trade ministry said.&nbsp; ”The reforms aim to accelerate processes, reduce turnaround times, and leverage technology-driven systems to make quality assurance faster, more transparent, and more accessible for enterprises, institutions, and citizens,” said Jaxay Shah, the chairman of the Quality Council of India.&nbsp;Despite multiple rounds of talks and high-profile meetings, the United States continues to impose 50 per cent tariffs on India, the highest globally.

Signalling forward movement in ongoing negotiations, India on December 24 announced reforms to remove red tape and ease its import quality checks, addressing an issue raised by the United States.

The central government on Friday (Dec 26) said that it continues to engage with the United States to finalise a bilateral trade agreement and that discussions have been held on contentious issues between both sides. New Delhi and Washington have been working out to conclude a trade agreement for months after President Trump announced baseline tariffs against its trade partners on April 2. Answering queries during the weekly media briefing concerning India-US bilateral trade agreement talks, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both governments continue to remain engaged with a view to concluding a fair, balanced and mutually beneficial trade agreement. Jaiswal underlined a recent visit of a US negotiator led by Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer from December 9 to 11. During the visit, Switzer met with Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, and other senior Indian officials. On December 24, Indian envoy to the United States Vinay Kwatra held a meeting with US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor at US President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home in Florida. In a post on X, Kwatra said they had "extensive discussions on our shared goal to strengthen trade ties, as also his (Gor) plans and priorities for our bilateral partnership as he prepares to assume his responsibility as the US Ambassador to India!" Also Read: China warns Washington of ‘first red line’, sanctions US defence firms over arms sales to Taiwan Signalling forward movement in ongoing negotiations, India on December 24 announced reforms to remove red tape and ease its import quality checks, addressing an issue raised by the United States during trade talks. The regulatory restructuring is aimed at reducing paperwork, cutting time for checks and fewer inspections for quality approval, the trade ministry said. ”The reforms aim to accelerate processes, reduce turnaround times, and leverage technology-driven systems to make quality assurance faster, more transparent, and more accessible for enterprises, institutions, and citizens,” said Jaxay Shah, the chairman of the Quality Council of India. Despite multiple rounds of talks and high-profile meetings, the United States continues to impose 50 per cent tariffs on India, the highest globally.

Signalling forward movement in ongoing negotiations, India on December 24 announced reforms to remove red tape and ease its import quality checks, addressing an issue raised by the United States.

Continue to remain engaged with United States to finalise bilateral trade agreement, says Govt

For all big companies, labour is a necessary nuisance. Indian gig workers are the backbone of the country’s e-commerce giants, food delivery apps and app-based transport services. But for over a decade, they have not benefited from the massive profits made by most of these companies. While keeping them as contract workers without any employment benefits, the firms involved seem to have indirectly contributed to their unionising. The firms forgot that the gig worker has the ability to grind businesses to a halt, quite literally. The Christmas day strike, in which some 400,000 gig workers reportedly took part, indicated this. The workers are threatening a similar action on New Year’s Eve. Here is why the gig worker strikes should be taken seriously by the industry.<h2>The delivery workers’ strike: The first shot has been fired, but what do they want?</h2>Delivery workers across India held a nationwide flash strike on Thursday (Dec 25). This was organised by unions like Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and Indian Federation of App-based Transport Workers (IFAT), with solidarity expressed by drivers of food delivery apps. The workers are demanding better wages, safer conditions, social security, transparent pay and respect for rights. They want an end to arbitrary account deactivations without an appeal process, unsafe and ultra-fast delivery demands, and better labour protections. Services were disrupted in several major cities.The strikes by Ola/Uber/Rapido drivers in July in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and in June in Jaipur were led by unions like IFAT and Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch. The demands are almost always the same: fixed or higher minimum fares at par with traditional taxis, and caps on platform commissions, transparent ID reactivation and grievance redressal processes.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-labour-laws-what-you-need-to-know-1764071685283/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-labour-laws-what-you-need-to-know-1764071685283/embed</a><h2>What are the labour laws governing Indian gig workers?</h2>India’s labour framework for gig workers, including online platform-based workers, is governed by the Code on Social Security, 2020, which was fully implemented on November 21 this year as part of four new consolidated Labour Codes replacing 29 older laws. For the first time, gig workers, who earn outside traditional employer–employee relationships, and platform workers, who perform work via digital platforms, were formally defined and included in this framework.Under these rules, they are supposed to get life and disability insurance, accident insurance, health and maternity benefits, provident fund (PF), gratuity for fixed-term workers after one year, old-age protection and/or pension. These schemes are to be funded through a social security fund to which platform players are required to contribute 1–2 per cent of their annual turnover, capped at 5 per cent of payments to workers.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/7-ways-ai-can-damage-indian-economy-if-it-clings-to-cheap-manual-labour-1765400158654">7 ways AI can damage Indian economy if it clings to cheap manual labour?</a><h2>Labour reforms are on paper but not implemented fully</h2>Even as these provisions are in force, progress has been slow on schemes, registration mechanisms, and state-level rules to implement them. Gig workers are yet to get full access to these benefits, as companies are only waking up to the law and setting up mechanisms. While some states have already pioneered specific gig worker welfare laws, many lag in this direction.Rajasthan’s Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2023 established a Welfare Board, mandatory registration of workers and aggregators, a welfare fund via a transaction cess and grievance redressal. Yet, full implementation has been delayed.Karnataka’s Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Act, 2025 has transaction-based fees and stronger grievance mechanisms. Other states like Jharkhand and Bihar passed similar laws in 2025.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-your-boss-can-t-bully-you-anymore-top-7-ways-to-defend-your-rights-under-india-s-new-labour-codes-in-2026-1763811689423">'Your boss can’t bully you anymore': Top 7 ways to defend your rights under India’s new labour codes in 2026</a><h2>Gig workers are not classified as traditional 'employees'</h2>There are certain loopholes that platform players appear to be exploiting. For instance, even the new labour code does not classify gig workers as employees, which preserves platform flexibility. The idea is that gig workers could get limited entitlements without full employment protections. This leaves a lot to interpretation: There is no minimum wage guarantee under the Social Security Code specifically for gig workers.Ride-hailing platforms like Ola and Uber generally classify gig workers as independent contractors or “partners” rather than employees. This allows flexibility (read: not giving full employment benefits) for the platforms and limited protections for the workers, leading to complaints.Other issues include high commissions taken by ride-hailing apps, often up to 30 per cent per ride, which reduces net earnings for drivers. Many cab drivers earn ₹400–800 net per day after expenses, including fuel, vehicle maintenance and loan repayments, even as they put in more time than traditional employees, up to 14 hours. Some states have guidelines such as Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines 2025 which cap the login time of drivers at 12 hours per day.<h2>Hire and fire at will: From arbitrary account suspensions to toll on physical and mental health</h2>Since the collapse of gainful employment in post-pandemic years, there is an oversupply of drivers in the gig economy, whcih actually lowers the earnings per worker.As they are only “partners” and not employees, delivery and driving apps have the ability to arbitrarily suspend gig workers’ accounts without a proper appeal process. This often leads to a sudden loss of income for them. Historically, no PF, health insurance, paid leave, or gratuity has been given to gig workers, who are also expected to bear the costs of risks like accidents and repairs.&nbsp;Many drivers take high-interest loans for vehicles, encouraged by initial incentives given by the apps, which are later dropped.Gig workers often face physical and mental health issues, with surveys reporting violence or harassment against them.<h2>Profit over worker welfare can lead to collapse of the system</h2>The recent events in aviation is a good example of how, when rules on labour welfare are strictly implemented, those who did not build trustworthy systems will collapse, hurting both the consumer and the worker. The platforms that use gig workers, some of whom are still operating at heavy losses, are prioritising growth, scale and low fares for customers. But the algorithmic fare controls and arbitrary changes of incentives are hurting the workers.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/viral-video-shows-indians-dancing-on-moscow-streets-claims-to-be-part-of-labour-contingent-here-s-why-1766402658392">Viral video shows 'Indians dancing on Moscow streets', claims to be part of labour contingent — Here's why</a><h2>A bigger strike can spell doom for the nascent industry</h2>It is important for the e-commerce and platform giants to understand that labour unrest is their biggest vulnerability.&nbsp;In a sector where labour is kept away from benefits despite several state-level laws and codes, their organising power can come down like a hammer, hurting company bottomlines and investors alike.&nbsp;

Indian gig workers across delivery and ride-hailing platforms are striking over low pay, unsafe conditions and lack of social security, exposing how labour unrest threatens e-commerce and platform business models.

For all big companies, labour is a necessary nuisance. Indian gig workers are the backbone of the country’s e-commerce giants, food delivery apps and app-based transport services. But for over a decade, they have not benefited from the massive profits made by most of these companies. While keeping them as contract workers without any employment benefits, the firms involved seem to have indirectly contributed to their unionising. The firms forgot that the gig worker has the ability to grind businesses to a halt, quite literally. The Christmas day strike, in which some 400,000 gig workers reportedly took part, indicated this. The workers are threatening a similar action on New Year’s Eve. Here is why the gig worker strikes should be taken seriously by the industry. The delivery workers’ strike: The first shot has been fired, but what do they want? Delivery workers across India held a nationwide flash strike on Thursday (Dec 25). This was organised by unions like Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and Indian Federation of App-based Transport Workers (IFAT), with solidarity expressed by drivers of food delivery apps. The workers are demanding better wages, safer conditions, social security, transparent pay and respect for rights. They want an end to arbitrary account deactivations without an appeal process, unsafe and ultra-fast delivery demands, and better labour protections. Services were disrupted in several major cities. The strikes by Ola/Uber/Rapido drivers in July in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and in June in Jaipur were led by unions like IFAT and Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch. The demands are almost always the same: fixed or higher minimum fares at par with traditional taxis, and caps on platform commissions, transparent ID reactivation and grievance redressal processes. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-labour-laws-what-you-need-to-know-1764071685283/embed What are the labour laws governing Indian gig workers? India’s labour framework for gig workers, including online platform-based workers, is governed by the Code on Social Security, 2020, which was fully implemented on November 21 this year as part of four new consolidated Labour Codes replacing 29 older laws. For the first time, gig workers, who earn outside traditional employer–employee relationships, and platform workers, who perform work via digital platforms, were formally defined and included in this framework. Under these rules, they are supposed to get life and disability insurance, accident insurance, health and maternity benefits, provident fund (PF), gratuity for fixed-term workers after one year, old-age protection and/or pension. These schemes are to be funded through a social security fund to which platform players are required to contribute 1–2 per cent of their annual turnover, capped at 5 per cent of payments to workers. Also read: 7 ways AI can damage Indian economy if it clings to cheap manual labour? Labour reforms are on paper but not implemented fully Even as these provisions are in force, progress has been slow on schemes, registration mechanisms, and state-level rules to implement them. Gig workers are yet to get full access to these benefits, as companies are only waking up to the law and setting up mechanisms. While some states have already pioneered specific gig worker welfare laws, many lag in this direction. Rajasthan’s Platform-Based Gig Workers (Registration and Welfare) Act, 2023 established a Welfare Board, mandatory registration of workers and aggregators, a welfare fund via a transaction cess and grievance redressal. Yet, full implementation has been delayed. Karnataka’s Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Act, 2025 has transaction-based fees and stronger grievance mechanisms. Other states like Jharkhand and Bihar passed similar laws in 2025. Also read: 'Your boss can’t bully you anymore': Top 7 ways to defend your rights under India’s new labour codes in 2026 Gig workers are not classified as traditional 'employees' There are certain loopholes that platform players appear to be exploiting. For instance, even the new labour code does not classify gig workers as employees, which preserves platform flexibility. The idea is that gig workers could get limited entitlements without full employment protections. This leaves a lot to interpretation: There is no minimum wage guarantee under the Social Security Code specifically for gig workers. Ride-hailing platforms like Ola and Uber generally classify gig workers as independent contractors or “partners” rather than employees. This allows flexibility (read: not giving full employment benefits) for the platforms and limited protections for the workers, leading to complaints. Other issues include high commissions taken by ride-hailing apps, often up to 30 per cent per ride, which reduces net earnings for drivers. Many cab drivers earn ₹400–800 net per day after expenses, including fuel, vehicle maintenance and loan repayments, even as they put in more time than traditional employees, up to 14 hours. Some states have guidelines such as Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines 2025 which cap the login time of drivers at 12 hours per day. Hire and fire at will: From arbitrary account suspensions to toll on physical and mental health Since the collapse of gainful employment in post-pandemic years, there is an oversupply of drivers in the gig economy, whcih actually lowers the earnings per worker. As they are only “partners” and not employees, delivery and driving apps have the ability to arbitrarily suspend gig workers’ accounts without a proper appeal process. This often leads to a sudden loss of income for them. Historically, no PF, health insurance, paid leave, or gratuity has been given to gig workers, who are also expected to bear the costs of risks like accidents and repairs. Many drivers take high-interest loans for vehicles, encouraged by initial incentives given by the apps, which are later dropped. Gig workers often face physical and mental health issues, with surveys reporting violence or harassment against them. Profit over worker welfare can lead to collapse of the system The recent events in aviation is a good example of how, when rules on labour welfare are strictly implemented, those who did not build trustworthy systems will collapse, hurting both the consumer and the worker. The platforms that use gig workers, some of whom are still operating at heavy losses, are prioritising growth, scale and low fares for customers. But the algorithmic fare controls and arbitrary changes of incentives are hurting the workers. Also read: Viral video shows 'Indians dancing on Moscow streets', claims to be part of labour contingent — Here's why A bigger strike can spell doom for the nascent industry It is important for the e-commerce and platform giants to understand that labour unrest is their biggest vulnerability. In a sector where labour is kept away from benefits despite several state-level laws and codes, their organising power can come down like a hammer, hurting company bottomlines and investors alike.

Indian gig workers across delivery and ride-hailing platforms are striking over low pay, unsafe conditions and lack of social security, exposing how labour unrest threatens e-commerce and platform business models.

Indian gig workers strike: Did food and travel platform aggregator companies empower them by ignoring them?

Delivery workers staged a nationwide flash strike and bike rallies across India on Thursday, under the leadership of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), over the poor and unsafe working conditions in the gig economy.&nbsp;Approximately 40,000 delivery workers from major platforms participated in the flash strike while protesting against unsafe working conditions, unfair pay, algorithmic control, ID blocking, and denial of dignity and social security.&nbsp;During the strike, the delivery workers faced serious intimidation and harassment, including the blocking of IDs of key leaders, team leaders, and active workers, and threats and coercion by company representatives. Despite these actions, workers stood united and continued their protest peacefully.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-dissent-and-angst-triggered-mass-protests-worldwide-1766674340518">Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide</a>&nbsp;<h2>Major disruption in delivery services</h2>&nbsp;The flash strike had a significant nationwide impact as around 50 to 60% of the orders were delayed or disrupted across multiple cities and stores. The platform companies attempted to break the strike by deploying third-party delivery companies such as Shadowfax and Rapido, while aggregators offered extra incentive pay and temporarily reactivated inactive IDs to manage operations,&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;<h2>Most affected regions</h2>&nbsp;The strongest impact of the flash strike by the delivery workers was reported from Delhi, Karnataka, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. These regions witnessed large-scale participation in the strike and bike rallies and the consequent visible disruption of platform services.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-yunus-govt-destroyed-bangladesh-giving-security-to-goons-terrorists-former-mp-1766665361993">‘Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists’: Former MP</a><h2>Workers’ resolve</h2>&nbsp;The flash strike demonstrates the growing unity and resistance of delivery workers across India against exploitative platform practices. &nbsp;Workers have made it clear that repression, ID blocking, and intimidation will not silence their collective voice.TGPWU and IFAT reiterated their demand for fair wages, safe working conditions, protection from arbitrary ID blocking, social security, and recognition of workers’ right to organise, said Shaik Salauddin, founder-president of Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and co-founder and national general secretary of Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-targeted-for-criticising-asim-munir-imran-khan-s-aide-assaulted-in-uk-nose-and-jaw-broken-1766661743804">‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken</a>

Approximately 40,000 delivery workers from major platforms participated in the flash strike while protesting against unsafe working conditions, unfair pay, algorithmic control, ID blocking, and denial of dignity and social security.

Delivery workers staged a nationwide flash strike and bike rallies across India on Thursday, under the leadership of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), over the poor and unsafe working conditions in the gig economy. Approximately 40,000 delivery workers from major platforms participated in the flash strike while protesting against unsafe working conditions, unfair pay, algorithmic control, ID blocking, and denial of dignity and social security. During the strike, the delivery workers faced serious intimidation and harassment, including the blocking of IDs of key leaders, team leaders, and active workers, and threats and coercion by company representatives. Despite these actions, workers stood united and continued their protest peacefully. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year dissent and angst triggered mass protests worldwide Major disruption in delivery services The flash strike had a significant nationwide impact as around 50 to 60% of the orders were delayed or disrupted across multiple cities and stores. The platform companies attempted to break the strike by deploying third-party delivery companies such as Shadowfax and Rapido, while aggregators offered extra incentive pay and temporarily reactivated inactive IDs to manage operations, Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters Most affected regions The strongest impact of the flash strike by the delivery workers was reported from Delhi, Karnataka, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. These regions witnessed large-scale participation in the strike and bike rallies and the consequent visible disruption of platform services. Also Read: ‘Yunus govt destroyed Bangladesh, giving security to goons, terrorists’: Former MP Workers’ resolve The flash strike demonstrates the growing unity and resistance of delivery workers across India against exploitative platform practices. Workers have made it clear that repression, ID blocking, and intimidation will not silence their collective voice. TGPWU and IFAT reiterated their demand for fair wages, safe working conditions, protection from arbitrary ID blocking, social security, and recognition of workers’ right to organise, said Shaik Salauddin, founder-president of Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and co-founder and national general secretary of Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT). Also Read: ‘Targeted for criticising Asim Munir’: Imran Khan’s aide assaulted in UK; nose and jaw broken

Approximately 40,000 delivery workers from major platforms participated in the flash strike while protesting against unsafe working conditions, unfair pay, algorithmic control, ID blocking, and denial of dignity and social security.

Gig economy unrest: Delivery workers go on nationwide flash strike, stage bike rallies

&nbsp;After the Donald Trump administration announced to replace its longstanding H-1B visa random lottery that has a wage-based selection mechanism, the Indian IT industry has flagged serious concerns. It stated that such a decision will impact smaller and mid-sized companies working in the US, which depend on academic calendars, product release cycles to recruit their employees, and client delivery schedules.&nbsp;“A sudden shift to a wage-weighted model would introduce uncertainty, increase compliance complexity, and disrupt long-established workforce planning, particularly for smaller and mid-sized firms that align recruitment with academic calendars, client delivery schedules, and product release cycles,” Nasscom said in a statement, the Mint reported. It added that the process will prioritise employees with higher wages and better skills.<h3>Replacement of the H-1B visa lottery would impact the US</h3>Under its wage-weighted system, the change could lead to an aversion in international students from pursuing higher education in the US, as the new system will restrict entry-level job opportunities, which will weaken the talent base. The step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.&nbsp;Nasscom added that the change would have a disproportionate impact on Indian IT professionals, given that a large share of technology workers in the US are Indian nationals. It also added that the proposed H-1B visa selection method raises key legal, economic and operational issues, marking a major shift from the existing lottery-based system.&nbsp;The industry body called for a phased rollout of the wage-weighted model with adequate transition time, recommending that implementation be deferred until the FY28 lottery cycle. It also stated that it would allow employers sufficient time to adjust processes, meet compliance requirements and sustain confidence in the US talent and investment ecosystem.

Nasscom has also warned that the step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.

After the Donald Trump administration announced to replace its longstanding H-1B visa random lottery that has a wage-based selection mechanism, the Indian IT industry has flagged serious concerns. It stated that such a decision will impact smaller and mid-sized companies working in the US, which depend on academic calendars, product release cycles to recruit their employees, and client delivery schedules. “A sudden shift to a wage-weighted model would introduce uncertainty, increase compliance complexity, and disrupt long-established workforce planning, particularly for smaller and mid-sized firms that align recruitment with academic calendars, client delivery schedules, and product release cycles,” Nasscom said in a statement, the Mint reported. It added that the process will prioritise employees with higher wages and better skills. Replacement of the H-1B visa lottery would impact the US Under its wage-weighted system, the change could lead to an aversion in international students from pursuing higher education in the US, as the new system will restrict entry-level job opportunities, which will weaken the talent base. The step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education. Nasscom added that the change would have a disproportionate impact on Indian IT professionals, given that a large share of technology workers in the US are Indian nationals. It also added that the proposed H-1B visa selection method raises key legal, economic and operational issues, marking a major shift from the existing lottery-based system. The industry body called for a phased rollout of the wage-weighted model with adequate transition time, recommending that implementation be deferred until the FY28 lottery cycle. It also stated that it would allow employers sufficient time to adjust processes, meet compliance requirements and sustain confidence in the US talent and investment ecosystem.

Nasscom has also warned that the step will become a negative situation for the US, which will weaken the country's goals of strengthening competitiveness, driving innovation, and supporting higher education.

How will scrapping the H-1B visa lottery affect India’s IT industry? Nasscom raises alarm

Nvidia has reportedly reached its largest-ever deal, a $20 billion licensing and talent acquisition agreement with AI chip startup Groq (not to be confused with the AI bot Grok from Elon Musk’s xAI). The deal smells like an attempt to gobble up a potential competitor, part of the “catch and kill” moves Silicon Valley’s big tech industry is notorious for. What is the deal, and why does it matter for one of the world’s top AI chipmaking giants? Here is what you should know.<h2>What is in the Groq deal with Nvidia?</h2>Started by former Google engineers in 2016, Groq makes LPU (Language Processing Unit) chips for ultra-fast, low-cost AI inference. The reported $20 billion all-cash deal includes asset purchases and non-exclusive technology licensing. These assets include Groq’s AI inference technology and intellectual property.Groq’s founder and CEO Jonathan Ross, president Sunny Madra, and other senior leaders will now be part of Nvidia talent force. This deal, if confirmed, surpasses Nvidia’s $7 billion acquisition of Mellanox in 2019. As of its September 2025 funding round, Groq was valued at $6.9 billion. GroqCloud, the cloud operations arm of the startup, is not part of the deal and will continue independently under new leadership, with CFO Simon Edwards likely to be its CEO, as per reports.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nvidia-scripts-history-becomes-first-firm-to-reach-5-trillion-market-value-following-ai-boom-1761748694795">Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value</a><h2>Why Groq matters for Nvidia</h2>AI inference is the process of running trained AI models, such as chatbots and other real-time applications, to generate instant responses. Currently, AI inference is becoming a larger share of total AI computing demand as models move from training to deployment at scale.&nbsp;This possibly explains Nvidia’s growing emphasis on inference optimisation alongside its dominance in AI training.Therefore, the Groq deal could bolster AI inference leadership for Nvidia, and eventually help integrate low-latency technology into its AI chips.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed</a><h2>Why Groq’s tech is a coveted asset for Nvidia: The case for LPU chips</h2>Groq is led by ex-Googlers like Jonathan Ross, who had helped design Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). TPUs are specialised AI chips that accelerate complex AI and Machine Learning tasks behind Google's Search, Photos, Translate, and Gemini AI interface. It is also used in Google data centres, Google Cloud, devices and recommendation engines. &nbsp;Groq builds specialised AI accelerator chips called Language Processing Units (LPUs), designed specifically for fast, low-latency, and energy-efficient AI inference.While traditional graphics processing units (GPUs) are good at training AI models, Groq’s LPUs focus on deterministic, high-speed inference with lower power consumption.This makes them well-suited to heavier workloads that need quick token generation.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-would-happen-to-nvidia-if-china-attacked-taiwan-today-a-factual-breakdown-of-the-worst-case-scenario-1764335291497">What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario</a><h2>Catch and kill? What Nvidia is saying about Groq deal</h2>Reports citing Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the deal’s goal is to integrate Groq’s low-latency processors into Nvidia’s AI architecture to enhance inference capabilities. He insisted that Nvidia is not acquiring Groq as a company.So, the deal is perhaps an “acqui-hire” or “reverse acqui-hire”, similar to, but not exactly the same as, Microsoft’s arrangement with Inflection AI or Meta’s deal with Scale AI.Such deals allow access to talent, IPs, and technology while avoiding the regulatory scrutiny that would have occurred in the case of a full acquisition. Note that regulators are scrutinising partial acquisitions, asset purchases, and talent transfers in AI, as firms use these structures to avoid reviews of full mergers.At least for now, the Groq deal looks different from a catch-and-kill, or the ‘killer acquisition’ policy in which promising startups are acquired mainly to eliminate competition and shelve their technology rather than developing them further.Even then, one must note that Groq was indeed a direct competitor to Nvidia in AI inference, where the latter faced more rivals than in AI training.Nvidia, for now, says it is actively planning to integrate and scale Groq’s LPU technology into its own products, including future AI factories and real-time workloads. Huang’s comments highlight an expansion of capabilities, not suppression of talent or technology, even as the deal would end Groq as an independent rival and consolidate Nvidia’s dominance in inference.

Nvidia’s reported $20bn Groq deal targets the chip startup's AI inference chip technology. By licensing its LPU tech and hiring talent, Nvidia would strengthens low-latency AI computing. But is it a catch and kill approach?

Nvidia has reportedly reached its largest-ever deal, a $20 billion licensing and talent acquisition agreement with AI chip startup Groq (not to be confused with the AI bot Grok from Elon Musk’s xAI). The deal smells like an attempt to gobble up a potential competitor, part of the “catch and kill” moves Silicon Valley’s big tech industry is notorious for. What is the deal, and why does it matter for one of the world’s top AI chipmaking giants? Here is what you should know. What is in the Groq deal with Nvidia? Started by former Google engineers in 2016, Groq makes LPU (Language Processing Unit) chips for ultra-fast, low-cost AI inference. The reported $20 billion all-cash deal includes asset purchases and non-exclusive technology licensing. These assets include Groq’s AI inference technology and intellectual property. Groq’s founder and CEO Jonathan Ross, president Sunny Madra, and other senior leaders will now be part of Nvidia talent force. This deal, if confirmed, surpasses Nvidia’s $7 billion acquisition of Mellanox in 2019. As of its September 2025 funding round, Groq was valued at $6.9 billion. GroqCloud, the cloud operations arm of the startup, is not part of the deal and will continue independently under new leadership, with CFO Simon Edwards likely to be its CEO, as per reports. Also read: Riding on AI boom, Nvidia scripts history, becomes first firm to reach $5 trillion market value Why Groq matters for Nvidia AI inference is the process of running trained AI models, such as chatbots and other real-time applications, to generate instant responses. Currently, AI inference is becoming a larger share of total AI computing demand as models move from training to deployment at scale. This possibly explains Nvidia’s growing emphasis on inference optimisation alongside its dominance in AI training. Therefore, the Groq deal could bolster AI inference leadership for Nvidia, and eventually help integrate low-latency technology into its AI chips. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nvidia-hits-5tn-market-cap-world-business-watch-wion-1761801804595/embed Why Groq’s tech is a coveted asset for Nvidia: The case for LPU chips Groq is led by ex-Googlers like Jonathan Ross, who had helped design Google’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU). TPUs are specialised AI chips that accelerate complex AI and Machine Learning tasks behind Google's Search, Photos, Translate, and Gemini AI interface. It is also used in Google data centres, Google Cloud, devices and recommendation engines. Groq builds specialised AI accelerator chips called Language Processing Units (LPUs), designed specifically for fast, low-latency, and energy-efficient AI inference. While traditional graphics processing units (GPUs) are good at training AI models, Groq’s LPUs focus on deterministic, high-speed inference with lower power consumption. This makes them well-suited to heavier workloads that need quick token generation. Also read: What would happen to NVIDIA if China attacked Taiwan today? A factual breakdown of the worst case scenario Catch and kill? What Nvidia is saying about Groq deal Reports citing Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the deal’s goal is to integrate Groq’s low-latency processors into Nvidia’s AI architecture to enhance inference capabilities. He insisted that Nvidia is not acquiring Groq as a company. So, the deal is perhaps an “acqui-hire” or “reverse acqui-hire”, similar to, but not exactly the same as, Microsoft’s arrangement with Inflection AI or Meta’s deal with Scale AI. Such deals allow access to talent, IPs, and technology while avoiding the regulatory scrutiny that would have occurred in the case of a full acquisition. Note that regulators are scrutinising partial acquisitions, asset purchases, and talent transfers in AI, as firms use these structures to avoid reviews of full mergers. At least for now, the Groq deal looks different from a catch-and-kill, or the ‘killer acquisition’ policy in which promising startups are acquired mainly to eliminate competition and shelve their technology rather than developing them further. Even then, one must note that Groq was indeed a direct competitor to Nvidia in AI inference, where the latter faced more rivals than in AI training. Nvidia, for now, says it is actively planning to integrate and scale Groq’s LPU technology into its own products, including future AI factories and real-time workloads. Huang’s comments highlight an expansion of capabilities, not suppression of talent or technology, even as the deal would end Groq as an independent rival and consolidate Nvidia’s dominance in inference.

Nvidia’s reported $20bn Groq deal targets the chip startup's AI inference chip technology. By licensing its LPU tech and hiring talent, Nvidia would strengthens low-latency AI computing. But is it a catch and kill approach?

Catch and kill? Why Nvidia’s record $20 billion deal with AI chip startup Groq matters

Pakistan Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatisation, Muhammad Ali, rejected criticism over the privatisation of state carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and said that the move does not undermine national pride but aims to restore the carrier’s lost strength and efficiency. Ali said that claims circulating on social media suggesting that the airline was sold for less than the value of its aircraft were incorrect and misleading, adding that such assertions do not reflect the facts of the privatisation process. Ali was addressing a joint press conference with Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar on Wednesday. The remarks came a day after a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation emerged as the top bidder for a 75% stake in the national carrier by offering Rs 135 billion. The government would get 7.5% in cash and 25% in equity value.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a>&nbsp;“In total, the valuation of PIA is Rs 180 billion. So our structuring was such that we get Rs 10 billion in cash and the value of our equities is Rs 45 billion. So the government will get Rs 55 billion in total, and Rs 125 billion will flow back into PIA,” he said.The deal was structured to inject fresh capital into the airline rather than just transfer ownership. “We did not want a situation where the government sells the airline, takes money, and the company still collapses,” Ali said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-rickshaw-puller-wearing-red-thread-branded-raw-agent-assaulted-by-mob-in-bangladesh-1766322679454">Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread branded ‘RAW agent’, assaulted by mob in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;He clarified that the impression that there were no liabilities in PIA was incorrect. “We are transferring Rs 180 billion in liabilities to the new buyer,” he said, adding that the government had removed the long-term debt otherwise, nobody would have come forward to buy the airline.The PIA privatisation was a key test of Pakistan’s reform credibility with the IMF.&nbsp;<h2>‘New owner will be running PIA by April’</h2>&nbsp;The government expects the new owner will be running the airline by April, subject to approvals, Ali told Reuters.The process now moves to final approvals by the Privatisation Commission board and the cabinet, expected within days, with contract signing likely within two weeks and financial close after a 90-day period to meet regulatory and legal conditions.&nbsp;<h2>Consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation emerged as highest bidder</h2>&nbsp;Arif Habib and Lucky Cement consortia advanced to the open auction stage after placing offers above the reference price of Rs 100 billion, while private airliner Airblue exited after submitting Rs 26.5 billion offer.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-after-all-shri-hanuman-finally-serves-replies-eam-when-asked-if-india-needs-more-than-one-jaishankar-1766243874365">‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH</a>&nbsp;The winning consortium also comprises fertiliser maker Fatima, private school network City Schools, and real estate firm Lake City Holdings Limited.Ali said Fauji Fertiliser Company did not bid but could still join the winning consortium as a partner. The buyer can add up to two partners, including a consortium partner or a foreign airline, if they meet the qualifying criteria. Fauji Fertliser was initially in the race but opted out later.&nbsp;<h2>‘PIA incurred losses of Rs 500bn from 2015 to 2024’</h2>&nbsp;Ali said the process for the “strategic sale” of PIA was initiated 20 years ago, and an attempt to sell it had been made last year also but was not successful.He recalled that 50 years ago, PIA was operating around 50 aircraft, and the number should have increased to 100-115 by now, but it was operating just 18 planes.Ali also pointed out that from 2015 to 2024, the airline incurred losses of Rs 500 billion over a period of 10 years.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unnao-rape-survivor-s-mother-manhandled-during-protest-dead-society-says-rahul-1766580698106">Unnao rape survivor’s mother manhandled during protest; ‘Dead society’, says Rahul</a>&nbsp;

Pakistan PM’s adviser recalled that 50 years ago, PIA was operating around 50 aircraft, and the number should have increased to 100-115 by now, but it was operating just 18 planes. Besides, the airline incurred losses of Rs 500 billion over a period of 10 years from 2015 to 2024.

Pakistan Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatisation, Muhammad Ali, rejected criticism over the privatisation of state carrier Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and said that the move does not undermine national pride but aims to restore the carrier’s lost strength and efficiency. Ali said that claims circulating on social media suggesting that the airline was sold for less than the value of its aircraft were incorrect and misleading, adding that such assertions do not reflect the facts of the privatisation process. Ali was addressing a joint press conference with Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar on Wednesday. The remarks came a day after a consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation emerged as the top bidder for a 75% stake in the national carrier by offering Rs 135 billion. The government would get 7.5% in cash and 25% in equity value. Also Read: Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters “In total, the valuation of PIA is Rs 180 billion. So our structuring was such that we get Rs 10 billion in cash and the value of our equities is Rs 45 billion. So the government will get Rs 55 billion in total, and Rs 125 billion will flow back into PIA,” he said. The deal was structured to inject fresh capital into the airline rather than just transfer ownership. “We did not want a situation where the government sells the airline, takes money, and the company still collapses,” Ali said. Also Read: Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread branded ‘RAW agent’, assaulted by mob in Bangladesh He clarified that the impression that there were no liabilities in PIA was incorrect. “We are transferring Rs 180 billion in liabilities to the new buyer,” he said, adding that the government had removed the long-term debt otherwise, nobody would have come forward to buy the airline. The PIA privatisation was a key test of Pakistan’s reform credibility with the IMF. ‘New owner will be running PIA by April’ The government expects the new owner will be running the airline by April, subject to approvals, Ali told Reuters. The process now moves to final approvals by the Privatisation Commission board and the cabinet, expected within days, with contract signing likely within two weeks and financial close after a 90-day period to meet regulatory and legal conditions. Consortium led by Arif Habib Corporation emerged as highest bidder Arif Habib and Lucky Cement consortia advanced to the open auction stage after placing offers above the reference price of Rs 100 billion, while private airliner Airblue exited after submitting Rs 26.5 billion offer. Also Read: ‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH The winning consortium also comprises fertiliser maker Fatima, private school network City Schools, and real estate firm Lake City Holdings Limited. Ali said Fauji Fertiliser Company did not bid but could still join the winning consortium as a partner. The buyer can add up to two partners, including a consortium partner or a foreign airline, if they meet the qualifying criteria. Fauji Fertliser was initially in the race but opted out later. ‘PIA incurred losses of Rs 500bn from 2015 to 2024’ Ali said the process for the “strategic sale” of PIA was initiated 20 years ago, and an attempt to sell it had been made last year also but was not successful. He recalled that 50 years ago, PIA was operating around 50 aircraft, and the number should have increased to 100-115 by now, but it was operating just 18 planes. Ali also pointed out that from 2015 to 2024, the airline incurred losses of Rs 500 billion over a period of 10 years. Also Read: Unnao rape survivor’s mother manhandled during protest; ‘Dead society’, says Rahul

Pakistan PM’s adviser recalled that 50 years ago, PIA was operating around 50 aircraft, and the number should have increased to 100-115 by now, but it was operating just 18 planes. Besides, the airline incurred losses of Rs 500 billion over a period of 10 years from 2015 to 2024.

Pakistan PM‘s adviser rejects claims of PIA being sold at less value, says new owners to run airline from April

The US economy saw a significant boost in the third quarter, growing at an annualised rate of 4.3%, up from 3.8% in the previous quarter. This marks the strongest growth the economy has experienced in two years, exceeding expectations. These figures come as a clearer view of the economy emerges following delays in data collection due to the US government shutdown.&nbsp;The data revealed that consumer spending rose at a rate of 3.5%, compared to 2.5% in the previous quarter, despite concerns over inflation and a slowing job market. This increase in consumer activity, particularly in health care services, was one of the key drivers behind the economic expansion. Although growth this year has faced challenges from changes in trade and immigration policies, as well as cuts in government spending, the economy has still maintained steady momentum.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/crimes-of-do-kwon-freefall-of-south-korean-crypto-genius-fugitive-life-forged-passport-and-15-years-in-jail-terrausd-luna-ust-1766483420813">Crimes of Do Kwon: Freefall of South Korean crypto genius - fugitive life, forged passports and 15 years in jail</a><h2>Donald Trump credits tariffs for growth in the economy</h2>Imports continued to decline, likely a result of the new taxes imposed on shipments entering the US following President Donald Trump's spring tariff announcements. On the other hand, exports experienced a strong recovery, rising by 7.4%.&nbsp;President Trump attributed much of this growth to the tariffs his administration has put in place, claiming that they played a crucial role in boosting the economy. He further stated that conditions would continue to improve, and emphasized that there was "no inflation" and that the country was enjoying strong national security. “The TARIFFS are responsible for the GREAT USA Economic Numbers JUST ANNOUNCED…AND THEY WILL ONLY GET BETTER! Also, NO INFLATION &amp; GREAT NATIONAL SECURITY. Pray for the U.S. Supreme Court!!! President DJT,” said US President Donald Trump in his post on Truth Social.

US economy accelerates by 4.3% with strong consumer spending and export growth in Q3

The US economy saw a significant boost in the third quarter, growing at an annualised rate of 4.3%, up from 3.8% in the previous quarter. This marks the strongest growth the economy has experienced in two years, exceeding expectations. These figures come as a clearer view of the economy emerges following delays in data collection due to the US government shutdown. The data revealed that consumer spending rose at a rate of 3.5%, compared to 2.5% in the previous quarter, despite concerns over inflation and a slowing job market. This increase in consumer activity, particularly in health care services, was one of the key drivers behind the economic expansion. Although growth this year has faced challenges from changes in trade and immigration policies, as well as cuts in government spending, the economy has still maintained steady momentum. Also Read: Crimes of Do Kwon: Freefall of South Korean crypto genius - fugitive life, forged passports and 15 years in jail Donald Trump credits tariffs for growth in the economy Imports continued to decline, likely a result of the new taxes imposed on shipments entering the US following President Donald Trump's spring tariff announcements. On the other hand, exports experienced a strong recovery, rising by 7.4%. President Trump attributed much of this growth to the tariffs his administration has put in place, claiming that they played a crucial role in boosting the economy. He further stated that conditions would continue to improve, and emphasized that there was "no inflation" and that the country was enjoying strong national security. “The TARIFFS are responsible for the GREAT USA Economic Numbers JUST ANNOUNCED…AND THEY WILL ONLY GET BETTER! Also, NO INFLATION & GREAT NATIONAL SECURITY. Pray for the U.S. Supreme Court!!! President DJT,” said US President Donald Trump in his post on Truth Social.

The US economy grew at a faster-than-expected pace in Q3, expanding 4.3% due to a surge in consumer spending and a strong export recovery