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Several firms running mutual funds have suspended silver exchange-traded funds, which were launched in 2022. Silver ETF Fund of Funds (FoFs) were suspended amid liquidity issues in the physical silver market.&nbsp;Till October 15, 2025, at least eight major mutual fund houses have suspended fresh lump-sum investments and switch-ins in their Silver ETF FoFs, reported Moneycontrol.com.&nbsp;Many have stopped, but some are still allowing the Systematic Investment Plan.&nbsp;Here are the funds that have suspended fresh lump sum investments. They are: Kotak Mutual Fund, SBI Mutual Fund, UTI Mutual Fund, and Groww Mutual Fund. These funds have also suspended switch-in transactions. They are, however, continuing to allow SIP investments in both existing and new investors.&nbsp;Money Control reported that funds like Tata Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, and Aditya Birla Sun Life MF have suspended all new investments from October 14 and October 15.&nbsp;HDFC Mutual Fund, meanwhile, has restricted investments to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh per PAN per day.<h2>Which funds are open for investments?</h2>Axis Silver FoF, DSP Silver ETF FoF, Nippon India Silver ETF FoF, and Zerodha Silver ETF FoF are still open for investments. &nbsp;Those who have already invested in silver FoF units don't have any cause for concern.&nbsp;This is because existing systematic investment plans (SIPs) will continue until the AMC decides to stop them. Those who want to still invest in these funds can do so, but must keep in mind the volatility of the current silver market.

Several firms running mutual funds have suspended silver exchange-traded funds, which were launched in 2022. 

Several firms running mutual funds have suspended silver exchange-traded funds, which were launched in 2022. Silver ETF Fund of Funds (FoFs) were suspended amid liquidity issues in the physical silver market. Till October 15, 2025, at least eight major mutual fund houses have suspended fresh lump-sum investments and switch-ins in their Silver ETF FoFs, reported Moneycontrol.com. Many have stopped, but some are still allowing the Systematic Investment Plan. Here are the funds that have suspended fresh lump sum investments. They are: Kotak Mutual Fund, SBI Mutual Fund, UTI Mutual Fund, and Groww Mutual Fund. These funds have also suspended switch-in transactions. They are, however, continuing to allow SIP investments in both existing and new investors. Money Control reported that funds like Tata Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, and Aditya Birla Sun Life MF have suspended all new investments from October 14 and October 15. HDFC Mutual Fund, meanwhile, has restricted investments to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh per PAN per day. Which funds are open for investments? Axis Silver FoF, DSP Silver ETF FoF, Nippon India Silver ETF FoF, and Zerodha Silver ETF FoF are still open for investments. Those who have already invested in silver FoF units don't have any cause for concern. This is because existing systematic investment plans (SIPs) will continue until the AMC decides to stop them. Those who want to still invest in these funds can do so, but must keep in mind the volatility of the current silver market.

Silver ETF FoFs: HDFC Mutual Fund, meanwhile, has restricted investments to a maximum of Rs 1 lakh per PAN per day.

Which mutual funds are accepting investments in Silver ETF FoFs?

A report has said that the&nbsp;much-anticipated festive season may not deliver the usual consumption boost this year. It attributed the slow demand to several factors, such as&nbsp;weak labour markets, slowing credit, and mounting tariffs. It said these factors could weigh on consumer sentiment despite recent GST cuts.&nbsp;Ambit Capital, in its latest economic insights report,&nbsp;said that while GST and income tax reductions are expected to cost the exchequer nearly Rs 2 lakh crore, the impact on demand is likely to be modest.&nbsp;The central government has eliminated the 12 per cent and 28 per cent GST slabs and placed the items in these slabs into 5 per cent and 18 per cent GST slabs.&nbsp;The report said that the consumption will be boosted because demand is driven by the income effect. Total demand increases significantly only when incomes rise and remain stable, it added.The report claimed that there is a stagnation in the job market.&nbsp;&nbsp;"However, widespread stagnation in formal job markets, with entry-level salaries in key sectors like IT having remained unchanged for over a decade, has limited the ability of most households to spend, regardless of the recent GST price cuts," noted the report.&nbsp;It also said that&nbsp;13 per cent of UPI payments between April and July FY26 went toward debt repayments. Most of the UPI spending was made on&nbsp;non-discretionary items, including groceries and utilities.&nbsp;"Approximately 13% of UPI payments made in 4MFY26 were made to repay debt. In fact, seven of the top 10 contributors to UPI spending growth have been either related to debt repayment or non-discretionary items, such as essential spending on groceries and utilities," the brokerage said.&nbsp;It said there was a slowdown in credit for retail markets.&nbsp;"While this leverage fueled the post-pandemic consumption boom, rising delinquency rates and regulatory tightening have since led to a significant slowdown in credit disbursement," said the report.&nbsp;It also warned of potential job losses due to the US tariffs in sectors like&nbsp;textiles, leather, and gems, and jewelry.&nbsp;"In the coming months, the impact of US tariffs will begin to be felt in India, leading to significant job losses, particularly in labor-intensive sectors like leather, textiles, and jewellery," added the report.&nbsp;Hirings remained weak in most sectors at 7 per cent in the financial year 2025.&nbsp;The subdued sentiment is reflected in muted sales of high-end passenger vehicles and real estate, two key indicators of metropolitan consumption.

A report has said that the much-anticipated festive season may not deliver the usual consumption boost this year.

A report has said that the much-anticipated festive season may not deliver the usual consumption boost this year. It attributed the slow demand to several factors, such as weak labour markets, slowing credit, and mounting tariffs. It said these factors could weigh on consumer sentiment despite recent GST cuts. Ambit Capital, in its latest economic insights report, said that while GST and income tax reductions are expected to cost the exchequer nearly Rs 2 lakh crore, the impact on demand is likely to be modest. The central government has eliminated the 12 per cent and 28 per cent GST slabs and placed the items in these slabs into 5 per cent and 18 per cent GST slabs. The report said that the consumption will be boosted because demand is driven by the income effect. Total demand increases significantly only when incomes rise and remain stable, it added. The report claimed that there is a stagnation in the job market. "However, widespread stagnation in formal job markets, with entry-level salaries in key sectors like IT having remained unchanged for over a decade, has limited the ability of most households to spend, regardless of the recent GST price cuts," noted the report. It also said that 13 per cent of UPI payments between April and July FY26 went toward debt repayments. Most of the UPI spending was made on non-discretionary items, including groceries and utilities. "Approximately 13% of UPI payments made in 4MFY26 were made to repay debt. In fact, seven of the top 10 contributors to UPI spending growth have been either related to debt repayment or non-discretionary items, such as essential spending on groceries and utilities," the brokerage said. It said there was a slowdown in credit for retail markets. "While this leverage fueled the post-pandemic consumption boom, rising delinquency rates and regulatory tightening have since led to a significant slowdown in credit disbursement," said the report. It also warned of potential job losses due to the US tariffs in sectors like textiles, leather, and gems, and jewelry. "In the coming months, the impact of US tariffs will begin to be felt in India, leading to significant job losses, particularly in labor-intensive sectors like leather, textiles, and jewellery," added the report. Hirings remained weak in most sectors at 7 per cent in the financial year 2025. The subdued sentiment is reflected in muted sales of high-end passenger vehicles and real estate, two key indicators of metropolitan consumption.

GST rates cut: The central government has eliminated the 12 per cent and 28 per cent GST slabs and placed the items in these slabs into 5 per cent and 18 per cent GST slabs.

Will consumption demand remain muted despite tax cuts? Report makes big claims

The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) has significantly changed the rules for subscribers related to withdrawal limits, maintaining the EPF minimum balance, the requirement of minimum service years for partial withdrawal of corpus and pension, etc.&nbsp;The board has made it mandatory&nbsp;for EPF holders to maintain at least 25 per cent of their contributions in the EPF account. This minimum balance has to be maintained at all times. The step has been taken to ensure that members enjoy the high rate of interest.&nbsp;Is this 25 per cent rule absolute? The EPF balance rule applies to most situations.&nbsp;According to the new rules of EPFO, employees who have lost their jobs can withdraw their full PF amount only after 12 months of unemployment. Earlier, this requirement was two months.&nbsp;“It is also decided to change the period for availing premature final settlement of EPF from the existing 2 months to 12 months and final pension withdrawal from 2 months to 36 months,” the EPFO said in a statement.&nbsp;EPFO said that the decision was taken as it has liberalised partial withdrawals so that members can meet immediate financial needs without compromising their entire savings.&nbsp;After one year of unemployment, members can withdraw the full PF amount. As of now, they can take out 75 per cent of the corpus. However, they won't be allowed to withdraw the remaining 25 per cent.<h2>How to Withdraw PF Online</h2><h3>Here's the step-by-step process based on current guidelines:</h3> 1. Log in to EPFO Member Portal: Visit the EPFO portal, enter your UAN, password, and captcha. 2. Online Services: Click on ‘Online Services’ → ‘Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C &amp; 10D)’. 3. Select Form: Choose Form 19 (full withdrawal), Form 31 (partial advance), or Form 10C (pension). 4. Verify Details: Ensure KYC (Aadhaar, PAN, bank) is updated. 5. Bank Details: Enter and verify the bank account linked to UAN. 6. Purpose &amp; Amount: For partial withdrawal (Form 31), select purpose (Essential Needs, Housing, Special Circumstances). 7. Aadhaar OTP: Authenticate via OTP sent to registered mobile. 8. Submit Claim: Claim processed typically within 3-15 working days with updated KYC.



EPFO said that the decision was taken as it has liberalised partial withdrawals so that members can meet immediate financial needs without compromising their entire savings.

The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) has significantly changed the rules for subscribers related to withdrawal limits, maintaining the EPF minimum balance, the requirement of minimum service years for partial withdrawal of corpus and pension, etc. The board has made it mandatory for EPF holders to maintain at least 25 per cent of their contributions in the EPF account. This minimum balance has to be maintained at all times. The step has been taken to ensure that members enjoy the high rate of interest. Is this 25 per cent rule absolute? The EPF balance rule applies to most situations. According to the new rules of EPFO, employees who have lost their jobs can withdraw their full PF amount only after 12 months of unemployment. Earlier, this requirement was two months. “It is also decided to change the period for availing premature final settlement of EPF from the existing 2 months to 12 months and final pension withdrawal from 2 months to 36 months,” the EPFO said in a statement. EPFO said that the decision was taken as it has liberalised partial withdrawals so that members can meet immediate financial needs without compromising their entire savings. After one year of unemployment, members can withdraw the full PF amount. As of now, they can take out 75 per cent of the corpus. However, they won't be allowed to withdraw the remaining 25 per cent. How to Withdraw PF Online Here's the step-by-step process based on current guidelines: 1. Log in to EPFO Member Portal: Visit the EPFO portal, enter your UAN, password, and captcha. 2. Online Services: Click on ‘Online Services’ → ‘Claim (Form-31, 19, 10C & 10D)’. 3. Select Form: Choose Form 19 (full withdrawal), Form 31 (partial advance), or Form 10C (pension). 4. Verify Details: Ensure KYC (Aadhaar, PAN, bank) is updated. 5. Bank Details: Enter and verify the bank account linked to UAN. 6. Purpose & Amount: For partial withdrawal (Form 31), select purpose (Essential Needs, Housing, Special Circumstances). 7. Aadhaar OTP: Authenticate via OTP sent to registered mobile. 8. Submit Claim: Claim processed typically within 3-15 working days with updated KYC.

New EPFO rules: The board has made it mandatory&nbsp;for EPF holders to maintain at least 25 per cent of their contributions in the EPF account.&nbsp;

EPFO New Rules: How much PF can you withdraw during unemployment?

Indian households have witnessed a sharp jump in their overall wealth, driven by a sharp surge in the price of gold, with total holdings now valued at around $3.8 trillion, nearly 89 per cent of the country’s GDP, according to a Morgan Stanley report.&nbsp;The report indicated that the surge in household wealth has also been bolstered by reduced interest payments after recent monetary policy easing, and an increase in disposable income due to tax cuts, according to a report by The Economic Times.&nbsp;It added that the latest GST reductions, along with income-tax cuts announced earlier this year, were aimed at raising individual incomes. Gold prices have soared 61.8 per cent this year, hitting a record high of Rs 1.27 lakh per 10 grams.<h3>Gold reserves rise to around 14% of foreign exchange reserves</h3>Since 2024, the Reserve Bank of India has also spiked its gold reserves by around 75 tonnes, taking total holdings to 880 tonnes, which is around 14 per cent of the foreign exchange reserves of the country.&nbsp;Household investments are also shifting, with equities now making up a record 15.1% of financial savings in FY25, up from 8.7% in FY24 and just 4% before the pandemic.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the share of deposits has fallen to 35%, down from 40% in FY24 and 46% pre-pandemic, according to ET. Morgan Stanley expects this trend to continue, predicting that equities will play an even bigger role in household savings, supported by a younger population and growing awareness of investment options.&nbsp;Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Gold futures rose 1.8 per cent to $4,218.29 per ounce. For the first time ever, gold breached the $4,200 mark, extending its rally to nearly 60 per cent so far in 2025. As per the data from GoodReturns, ten grams of 24-carat gold traded at Rs 1,28,360 after gaining Rs 10 in early trade, while silver prices surged by Rs 100 to Rs 1,89,100 per kilogram.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Gold futures rose 1.8 per cent to $4,218.29 per ounce. For the first time ever, gold breached the $4,200 mark, extending its rally to nearly 60 per cent so far in 2025.

Indian households have witnessed a sharp jump in their overall wealth, driven by a sharp surge in the price of gold, with total holdings now valued at around $3.8 trillion, nearly 89 per cent of the country’s GDP, according to a Morgan Stanley report. The report indicated that the surge in household wealth has also been bolstered by reduced interest payments after recent monetary policy easing, and an increase in disposable income due to tax cuts, according to a report by The Economic Times. It added that the latest GST reductions, along with income-tax cuts announced earlier this year, were aimed at raising individual incomes. Gold prices have soared 61.8 per cent this year, hitting a record high of Rs 1.27 lakh per 10 grams. Gold reserves rise to around 14% of foreign exchange reserves Since 2024, the Reserve Bank of India has also spiked its gold reserves by around 75 tonnes, taking total holdings to 880 tonnes, which is around 14 per cent of the foreign exchange reserves of the country. Household investments are also shifting, with equities now making up a record 15.1% of financial savings in FY25, up from 8.7% in FY24 and just 4% before the pandemic. Meanwhile, the share of deposits has fallen to 35%, down from 40% in FY24 and 46% pre-pandemic, according to ET. Morgan Stanley expects this trend to continue, predicting that equities will play an even bigger role in household savings, supported by a younger population and growing awareness of investment options. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Gold futures rose 1.8 per cent to $4,218.29 per ounce. For the first time ever, gold breached the $4,200 mark, extending its rally to nearly 60 per cent so far in 2025. As per the data from GoodReturns, ten grams of 24-carat gold traded at Rs 1,28,360 after gaining Rs 10 in early trade, while silver prices surged by Rs 100 to Rs 1,89,100 per kilogram.

On Wednesday, Gold futures rose 1.8 per cent to $4,218.29 per ounce. For the first time ever, gold breached the $4,200 mark, extending its rally to nearly 60 per cent so far in 2025.

Indian households hold $3.8 trillion worth gold, nearly 89% of GDP — Here's how

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has seized Bitcoin valued at a whopping $15 billion. It is the largest&nbsp;forfeiture action in US history. The cryptocurrency was seized from what the department described as a massive "pig butchering" network.&nbsp;In Brooklyn, New York, federal prosecutors charged&nbsp;Chen Zhi of the Prince Holding Group with a crypto&nbsp;scam scheme in Cambodia. Zhi, 37, who is at large, is accused of running forced-labor scam compounds across the country. He allegedly used violence to control workers.<h2>What the Department of Justice said on Bitcoin seizure</h2>The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York said it had found images of beatings as evidence.&nbsp;"An indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, charging UK and Cambodian national Chen Zhi, also known as Vincent, 37, the founder and chairman of Prince Holding Group (Prince Group), a multinational business conglomerate based in Cambodia, with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy for directing Prince Group’s operation of forced-labor scam compounds across Cambodia. Individuals held against their will in the compounds engaged in cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes, known as “pig butchering” scams, that stole billions of dollars from victims in the United States and around the world. The defendant is at large," the DoJ said in a statement.&nbsp;It further said that the Bitcoins were proceeds of the defendant's fraud and money laundering schemes. It added that they were previously stored in unhosted cryptocurrency wallets whose private keys the defendant had in his possession.&nbsp;"Those funds (the Defendant Cryptocurrency) are presently in the custody of the U.S. government. The complaint is the largest forfeiture action in the history of the Department of Justice," it added.&nbsp;FBI Director Kash Patel described the action as the largest financial fraud takedowns in history.&nbsp;"This is an individual who allegedly operated a vast criminal network across multiple continents involving forced labor, money laundering, investment schemes, and stolen assets — targeting millions of innocent victims in the process. Justice will be done, and I’m proud of the men and women of the FBI who executed the mission faithfully," he said.&nbsp;Elaborating on the crime, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said that trafficked workers were confined in prison-like compounds and forced to carry out online scams on an industrial scale, preying on thousands worldwide, including many in the United States.

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has seized Bitcoin valued at a whopping $15 billion. It is the largest forfeiture action in US history. 

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has seized Bitcoin valued at a whopping $15 billion. It is the largest forfeiture action in US history. The cryptocurrency was seized from what the department described as a massive "pig butchering" network. In Brooklyn, New York, federal prosecutors charged Chen Zhi of the Prince Holding Group with a crypto scam scheme in Cambodia. Zhi, 37, who is at large, is accused of running forced-labor scam compounds across the country. He allegedly used violence to control workers. What the Department of Justice said on Bitcoin seizure The US District Court for the Eastern District of New York said it had found images of beatings as evidence. "An indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, charging UK and Cambodian national Chen Zhi, also known as Vincent, 37, the founder and chairman of Prince Holding Group (Prince Group), a multinational business conglomerate based in Cambodia, with wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy for directing Prince Group’s operation of forced-labor scam compounds across Cambodia. Individuals held against their will in the compounds engaged in cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes, known as “pig butchering” scams, that stole billions of dollars from victims in the United States and around the world. The defendant is at large," the DoJ said in a statement. It further said that the Bitcoins were proceeds of the defendant's fraud and money laundering schemes. It added that they were previously stored in unhosted cryptocurrency wallets whose private keys the defendant had in his possession. "Those funds (the Defendant Cryptocurrency) are presently in the custody of the U.S. government. The complaint is the largest forfeiture action in the history of the Department of Justice," it added. FBI Director Kash Patel described the action as the largest financial fraud takedowns in history. "This is an individual who allegedly operated a vast criminal network across multiple continents involving forced labor, money laundering, investment schemes, and stolen assets — targeting millions of innocent victims in the process. Justice will be done, and I’m proud of the men and women of the FBI who executed the mission faithfully," he said. Elaborating on the crime, Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg said that trafficked workers were confined in prison-like compounds and forced to carry out online scams on an industrial scale, preying on thousands worldwide, including many in the United States.

In Brooklyn, New York, federal prosecutors charged&nbsp;Chen Zhi of the Prince Holding Group with a crypto&nbsp;scam scheme in Cambodia.&nbsp;

'Largest forfeiture': Bitcoin valued at $15 billion seized in US; here's what happened

Scott Bessent's recent flip-flops on India could put a chameleon to shame. In just three months, the US Treasury secretary shifted from mocking India’s trade policies – calling it the “Maharaja of tariffs” – to seeking its support in a high-stakes contest with China. The turnaround reeks of opportunism.&nbsp;<h2>Bessent was in hawk mode this summer against India</h2>Back in July 2025, at the height of trade tensions, Bessent derided India’s import duties as protectionist and laughed off the Indian rupee’s sharp decline, brushing it off as "just market forces at work." At the time, the US had just imposed a steep 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, citing India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, which Washington claimed was helping fund Moscow’s war in Ukraine.Bessent made it clear that the pressure campaign was meant to extract trade concessions from New Delhi. “India loves its barriers,” he said. “But now they’re feeling the pinch from ours. It’s fair play in a tough world.” That remark, during a Fox Business interview on July 15 , set the tone for weeks of economic sabre-rattling by the two nations.<h2>So why is he now seeking help from India?&nbsp;</h2>In a new interview with Fox News, Bessent said: “We expect support from India and the Europeans. This is China versus the rest of the world. They've pointed a bazooka at our supply chains, and we’re not letting it happen.”&nbsp;The comment came after China moved to restrict exports of rare earth minerals – essential for US defence technologies, electronics, and renewable energy components. Bessent now wants India to join the US in forming a counterweight to China in this critical domain.&nbsp;<h2>Bessent's rhetoric contributed to damaging relations, increasing mistrust</h2>In July, Bessent used pointed rhetoric against India, calling it the “maharaja of tariffs”. Through August and early September, he ramped up the pressure. In a Bloomberg TV appearance, he accused India of "hiding behind outdated trade barriers" while benefitting from cheap Russian oil. He claimed this distorted global markets and hurt US manufacturing.Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations in early September, Bessent called India’s retaliatory tariffs on US tech and agricultural exports "self-defeating and unfair." These were not stray remarks; they were part of a broader push led by President Donald Trump to rebalance trade with countries seen as non-reciprocal.Bessent showed no sign of compromise, even as minor tariff rollbacks to 25 per cent were negotiated later in September.<h2>Sudden pivot: India is now a partner?</h2>It's mid-October, and Bessent’s tone seems to have shifted sharply. In multiple interviews, he described India as a key democratic ally and praised its rare earth reserves. He said the US was engaging with “allies like India” to diversify supply chains and resist Chinese coercion.In a Financial Times interview on Tuesday (Oct 14), he said, “China’s in recession and exporting their pain. India and others see the threat. We're asserting sovereignty together.”And notably, the US still maintains punitive tariffs of 25 to 50 per cent on Indian goods.<h2>Mixed messaging carries real risks in bilateral ties</h2>Bessent’s dramatic reversal has sparked criticism that this is a case of diplomatic inconsistency with real consequences for bilateral ties. With no public acknowledgement of the U-turn, Bessent appears to be recalibrating American policy based on short-term strategic need.Whether this approach secures cooperation or deepens mistrust remains to be seen. What is clear is that Bessent’s India policy is less about principles and more about positioning.But in trade talks, Washington may have realised one thing by now: India doesn't dance.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent slammed India over tariffs in July, but by October called it a key ally against China’s rare earth restrictions. What is behind this sharp U-turn?


Scott Bessent's recent flip-flops on India could put a chameleon to shame. In just three months, the US Treasury secretary shifted from mocking India’s trade policies – calling it the “Maharaja of tariffs” – to seeking its support in a high-stakes contest with China. The turnaround reeks of opportunism. Bessent was in hawk mode this summer against India Back in July 2025, at the height of trade tensions, Bessent derided India’s import duties as protectionist and laughed off the Indian rupee’s sharp decline, brushing it off as "just market forces at work." At the time, the US had just imposed a steep 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, citing India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, which Washington claimed was helping fund Moscow’s war in Ukraine. Bessent made it clear that the pressure campaign was meant to extract trade concessions from New Delhi. “India loves its barriers,” he said. “But now they’re feeling the pinch from ours. It’s fair play in a tough world.” That remark, during a Fox Business interview on July 15 , set the tone for weeks of economic sabre-rattling by the two nations. So why is he now seeking help from India? In a new interview with Fox News, Bessent said: “We expect support from India and the Europeans. This is China versus the rest of the world. They've pointed a bazooka at our supply chains, and we’re not letting it happen.” The comment came after China moved to restrict exports of rare earth minerals – essential for US defence technologies, electronics, and renewable energy components. Bessent now wants India to join the US in forming a counterweight to China in this critical domain. Bessent's rhetoric contributed to damaging relations, increasing mistrust In July, Bessent used pointed rhetoric against India, calling it the “maharaja of tariffs”. Through August and early September, he ramped up the pressure. In a Bloomberg TV appearance, he accused India of "hiding behind outdated trade barriers" while benefitting from cheap Russian oil. He claimed this distorted global markets and hurt US manufacturing. Speaking at the Council on Foreign Relations in early September, Bessent called India’s retaliatory tariffs on US tech and agricultural exports "self-defeating and unfair." These were not stray remarks; they were part of a broader push led by President Donald Trump to rebalance trade with countries seen as non-reciprocal. Bessent showed no sign of compromise, even as minor tariff rollbacks to 25 per cent were negotiated later in September. Sudden pivot: India is now a partner? It's mid-October, and Bessent’s tone seems to have shifted sharply. In multiple interviews, he described India as a key democratic ally and praised its rare earth reserves. He said the US was engaging with “allies like India” to diversify supply chains and resist Chinese coercion. In a Financial Times interview on Tuesday (Oct 14), he said, “China’s in recession and exporting their pain. India and others see the threat. We're asserting sovereignty together.” And notably, the US still maintains punitive tariffs of 25 to 50 per cent on Indian goods. Mixed messaging carries real risks in bilateral ties Bessent’s dramatic reversal has sparked criticism that this is a case of diplomatic inconsistency with real consequences for bilateral ties. With no public acknowledgement of the U-turn, Bessent appears to be recalibrating American policy based on short-term strategic need. Whether this approach secures cooperation or deepens mistrust remains to be seen. What is clear is that Bessent’s India policy is less about principles and more about positioning. But in trade talks, Washington may have realised one thing by now: India doesn't dance.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent slammed India over tariffs in July, but by October called it a key ally against China’s rare earth restrictions. What is behind this sharp U-turn? &nbsp;

Scott Bessent, the shape-shifter: Treasury secy who called India ‘Maharaja of tariffs’ now wants ‘ally’ to support US against China

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that, like the dot-com bust in the early 2000s, the United States' artificial intelligence investment&nbsp;boom could prove to be just an economic bubble and could burst. Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, the IMF's chief economist, said that the burst could crater the US or global economy.<h2>Dot-com bubble vs AI bubble</h2>He told Reuters that the dot-com-induced stock bubble of the 1990s is similar to the current AI boom. He said both eras increased stock valuations and capital gains wealth exponentially. This artificial gain in stocks fueled consumption and inflation. He said that the promise of AI-enabled transformation may not be fulfilled, triggering a crash of valuations.&nbsp;"This is not financed by debt, and that means that if there is a market correction, some shareholders, some equity holders, may lose out,” Gourinchas said in Washington.&nbsp;"But it doesn’t necessarily transmit to the broader financial system and create impairments in the banking system or in the financial system more broadly,” he added.&nbsp;Tech firms have been pumping billions of dollars into developing AI chips, computing power, and other AI infrastructure, betting on the promise that the new technology will enable gains in efficiency and productivity.&nbsp;However, these gains have not yet been realised. It is similar to the 1990s when internet stock valuations couldn't be backed by revenue gains, leading to a recession in the United States in 2001.&nbsp;Gourinchas said there was a possibility an AI correction could trigger a shift in sentiment and risk tolerance that could lead to broader repricing of assets.&nbsp;In 2008, the US property bubble burst, precipitating a global financial crisis.&nbsp;He said that investment and consumption are aiding inflationary pressures without productivity gains.&nbsp;Experts have predicted that artificial intelligence will disrupt&nbsp;the job market as it will end so many roles. However, it will create new kinds of jobs, offsetting unemployment.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that, like the dot-com bust in the early 2000s, the United States' artificial intelligence investment boom could prove to be just an economic bubble and could burst.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that, like the dot-com bust in the early 2000s, the United States' artificial intelligence investment boom could prove to be just an economic bubble and could burst. Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, the IMF's chief economist, said that the burst could crater the US or global economy. Dot-com bubble vs AI bubble He told Reuters that the dot-com-induced stock bubble of the 1990s is similar to the current AI boom. He said both eras increased stock valuations and capital gains wealth exponentially. This artificial gain in stocks fueled consumption and inflation. He said that the promise of AI-enabled transformation may not be fulfilled, triggering a crash of valuations. "This is not financed by debt, and that means that if there is a market correction, some shareholders, some equity holders, may lose out,” Gourinchas said in Washington. "But it doesn’t necessarily transmit to the broader financial system and create impairments in the banking system or in the financial system more broadly,” he added. Tech firms have been pumping billions of dollars into developing AI chips, computing power, and other AI infrastructure, betting on the promise that the new technology will enable gains in efficiency and productivity. However, these gains have not yet been realised. It is similar to the 1990s when internet stock valuations couldn't be backed by revenue gains, leading to a recession in the United States in 2001. Gourinchas said there was a possibility an AI correction could trigger a shift in sentiment and risk tolerance that could lead to broader repricing of assets. In 2008, the US property bubble burst, precipitating a global financial crisis. He said that investment and consumption are aiding inflationary pressures without productivity gains. Experts have predicted that artificial intelligence will disrupt the job market as it will end so many roles. However, it will create new kinds of jobs, offsetting unemployment.

Dot-com bubble vs artificial intelligence bubble: IMF's chief economist said that investment and consumption are aiding inflationary pressures without productivity gains.

IMF's warning on artificial intelligence: 'Bubble will burst like...'

Amid a renewed US-China trade war, Donald Trump said on Tuesday that his administration is planning to stop buying cooking oil from Beijing in retaliation against its alleged refusal to buy American soybeans. The remark came days after China restricted the export of rare earths, which have applications ranging from making smartphones to defense equipment.<h2>What did Donald Trump say about soybean exports to China?</h2>Donald Trump has stated that the US will impose a 100 percent tariff on China over the latter's actions regarding rare earths. He wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday that China had not been buying soybeans from American farmers. He dubbed the move an economically hostile act.&nbsp;"I believe that China purposefully not buying our Soybeans, and causing difficulty for our Soybean Farmers, is an Economically Hostile Act. We are considering terminating business with China having to do with Cooking Oil, and other elements of Trade, as retribution. As an example, we can easily produce Cooking Oil ourselves, we don’t need to purchase it from China,” he wrote.&nbsp;China has reportedly been avoiding buying soybeans, resulting in low crop prices in the US. The Trump administration has promised a relief package for farmers; however, it has been delayed because of the ongoing shutdown.&nbsp;The country's exports of used cooking oil have already been dwindling because the country ended tax breaks on exports in December last year.&nbsp;China has also cut back on buying US soybeans over Trump's trade war. It is buying soybeans from Brazil.&nbsp;The US exports of soybeans amounted to $12.6 billion. The Chinese move is hurting farmers in Republican-ruled states.&nbsp;Starting November 8, China will put an export limit on 12 of the 17 rare earth materials. The country has announced that no vendor can export these without the government's approval.&nbsp;This comes days ahead of US President Donald Trump's meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, over trade.&nbsp;A paucity of rare earths can create massive issues for the United States, as they are used to make F-35 fighter jets, Predator drones, Virginia and Columbia class submarines, Tomahawk missiles, radar systems, etc.

Amid a renewed US-China trade war, Donald Trump said on Tuesday that his administration is planning to stop buying cooking oil from Beijing in retaliation against its alleged refusal to buy American soybeans. 

Amid a renewed US-China trade war, Donald Trump said on Tuesday that his administration is planning to stop buying cooking oil from Beijing in retaliation against its alleged refusal to buy American soybeans. The remark came days after China restricted the export of rare earths, which have applications ranging from making smartphones to defense equipment. What did Donald Trump say about soybean exports to China? Donald Trump has stated that the US will impose a 100 percent tariff on China over the latter's actions regarding rare earths. He wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday that China had not been buying soybeans from American farmers. He dubbed the move an economically hostile act. "I believe that China purposefully not buying our Soybeans, and causing difficulty for our Soybean Farmers, is an Economically Hostile Act. We are considering terminating business with China having to do with Cooking Oil, and other elements of Trade, as retribution. As an example, we can easily produce Cooking Oil ourselves, we don’t need to purchase it from China,” he wrote. China has reportedly been avoiding buying soybeans, resulting in low crop prices in the US. The Trump administration has promised a relief package for farmers; however, it has been delayed because of the ongoing shutdown. The country's exports of used cooking oil have already been dwindling because the country ended tax breaks on exports in December last year. China has also cut back on buying US soybeans over Trump's trade war. It is buying soybeans from Brazil. The US exports of soybeans amounted to $12.6 billion. The Chinese move is hurting farmers in Republican-ruled states. Starting November 8, China will put an export limit on 12 of the 17 rare earth materials. The country has announced that no vendor can export these without the government's approval. This comes days ahead of US President Donald Trump's meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, over trade. A paucity of rare earths can create massive issues for the United States, as they are used to make F-35 fighter jets, Predator drones, Virginia and Columbia class submarines, Tomahawk missiles, radar systems, etc.

Donald Trump on China: The remark came days after China restricted the export of rare earths, which have applications ranging from making smartphones to defense equipment.

'Economically hostile': Donald Trump promises cooking oil move over China's soybean lull

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday (October 14) revised its GDP growth forecast for India, increasing the projection for 2025 to 6.6%, up from the earlier estimate of 6.4%. However, the organisation has slightly downgraded the 2026 growth outlook to 6.2%. The adjustment for 2025 stems from a strong performance in the first quarter, which offset the negative impact of the higher US tariff on Indian imports since July. Compared to the forecast made prior to the US tariff increase, the revised projections reflect a cumulative 0.2% reduction.&nbsp;For the global economy, the IMF has lowered its growth expectations for 2024 and 2025. It now anticipates a global growth rate of 3.2% for this year, followed by 3.1% in 2025, marking a 0.2% downgrade since its previous projections. The IMF warned that it’s too soon to determine if the recent surge in US tariffs has had no lasting effect on global growth. In its assessment, the IMF highlighted that advanced economies, including the US, are expected to grow at a sluggish pace of 1.5% in 2025-2026, while emerging markets like India will continue to show stronger growth, albeit at a slightly slower rate of around 4%.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nhai-to-give-rs-1000-for-reporting-dirty-toilets-rules-of-scheme-revealed-1760442787367">NHAI to give Rs 1000 for reporting dirty toilets | Rules of scheme revealed</a>&nbsp;IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed strong optimism about India’s economic trajectory, emphasizing the country's bold reforms. She praised India’s success in large-scale digital identity implementation and reforms in sectors such as taxation and digital payments, including the recent changes to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. According to Georgieva, these structural changes have reinforced India’s economic stability, and the country’s adaptability has allowed it to thrive despite challenges such as the tariff increases from the US.&nbsp;The IMF’s projections suggest that India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, is on track to surpass Japan and become the fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP. In the long term, India is expected to overtake Germany and rise to third place globally, following the US and China. Despite challenges like the US’s tariff hikes, economists are confident that India's economic growth will remain resilient due to strong domestic fundamentals, particularly its robust corporate sector and favorable financial conditions.

IMF forecasts India’s GDP growth to 6.6% for 2025 despite US tariff concerns

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday (October 14) revised its GDP growth forecast for India, increasing the projection for 2025 to 6.6%, up from the earlier estimate of 6.4%. However, the organisation has slightly downgraded the 2026 growth outlook to 6.2%. The adjustment for 2025 stems from a strong performance in the first quarter, which offset the negative impact of the higher US tariff on Indian imports since July. Compared to the forecast made prior to the US tariff increase, the revised projections reflect a cumulative 0.2% reduction. For the global economy, the IMF has lowered its growth expectations for 2024 and 2025. It now anticipates a global growth rate of 3.2% for this year, followed by 3.1% in 2025, marking a 0.2% downgrade since its previous projections. The IMF warned that it’s too soon to determine if the recent surge in US tariffs has had no lasting effect on global growth. In its assessment, the IMF highlighted that advanced economies, including the US, are expected to grow at a sluggish pace of 1.5% in 2025-2026, while emerging markets like India will continue to show stronger growth, albeit at a slightly slower rate of around 4%. Also Read: NHAI to give Rs 1000 for reporting dirty toilets | Rules of scheme revealed IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed strong optimism about India’s economic trajectory, emphasizing the country's bold reforms. She praised India’s success in large-scale digital identity implementation and reforms in sectors such as taxation and digital payments, including the recent changes to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. According to Georgieva, these structural changes have reinforced India’s economic stability, and the country’s adaptability has allowed it to thrive despite challenges such as the tariff increases from the US. The IMF’s projections suggest that India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, is on track to surpass Japan and become the fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP. In the long term, India is expected to overtake Germany and rise to third place globally, following the US and China. Despite challenges like the US’s tariff hikes, economists are confident that India's economic growth will remain resilient due to strong domestic fundamentals, particularly its robust corporate sector and favorable financial conditions.

IMF raises India's 2025 GDP growth forecast to 6.6%, citing strong reforms and digital initiatives, while lowering projections for 2026. India remains key global growth driver

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has proposed to change the rules as to the withdrawal of their corpus by members. The decision was taken at the 238th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (CBT). These new rules have ensured that members can now withdraw their full corpus, subject to certain rules.<h2>Here's what has changed</h2>As of now, EPFO used to permit full PF withdrawals&nbsp;only in the cases of retirement or unemployment. Unemployed members were eligible to withdraw 75 per cent of their balance. They could withdraw the remaining 25 per cent after two months of unemployment. Partial withdrawal was also permitted for specific purposes like buying property or constructing houses.&nbsp;Earlier, partial withdrawals were allowed for 13 complicated conditions. Now they have been clubbed into three broad categories -- essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances.Now members can withdraw money for education up to 10 times, for marriage up to 5 times. Earlier, members were permitted only three times for both purposes.&nbsp;There were several minimum service ceilings&nbsp;for partial withdrawal. Now, the minimum service ceiling&nbsp;for all types of withdrawal has been brought down to 12 months.&nbsp;One can withdraw from their corpus under the special circumstances category without assigning any reasons.&nbsp;Partial withdrawals will now be settled automatically with no paperwork.<h2>EPFO's performance&nbsp;</h2>Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) recorded an addition of 21.04 lakh net members during July 2025.&nbsp;The year-on-year analysis reveals a growth of 5.55 per cent in net payroll additions compared to July 2024, signifying increased employment opportunities and heightened awareness of employee benefits, bolstered by EPFO's effective outreach initiatives.&nbsp;EPFO enrolled around 9.79 lakh new subscribers in July 2025. This addition in new subscribers can be attributed to growing employment opportunities, increased awareness of employee benefits, and EPFO's successful outreach programs.

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation announces new rules: Earlier, partial withdrawals were allowed for 13 complicated conditions. Now they have been clubbed into three broad categories -- essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances.

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has proposed to change the rules as to the withdrawal of their corpus by members. The decision was taken at the 238th meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (CBT). These new rules have ensured that members can now withdraw their full corpus, subject to certain rules. Here's what has changed As of now, EPFO used to permit full PF withdrawals only in the cases of retirement or unemployment. Unemployed members were eligible to withdraw 75 per cent of their balance. They could withdraw the remaining 25 per cent after two months of unemployment. Partial withdrawal was also permitted for specific purposes like buying property or constructing houses. Earlier, partial withdrawals were allowed for 13 complicated conditions. Now they have been clubbed into three broad categories -- essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances. Now members can withdraw money for education up to 10 times, for marriage up to 5 times. Earlier, members were permitted only three times for both purposes. There were several minimum service ceilings for partial withdrawal. Now, the minimum service ceiling for all types of withdrawal has been brought down to 12 months. One can withdraw from their corpus under the special circumstances category without assigning any reasons. Partial withdrawals will now be settled automatically with no paperwork. EPFO's performance Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) recorded an addition of 21.04 lakh net members during July 2025. The year-on-year analysis reveals a growth of 5.55 per cent in net payroll additions compared to July 2024, signifying increased employment opportunities and heightened awareness of employee benefits, bolstered by EPFO's effective outreach initiatives. EPFO enrolled around 9.79 lakh new subscribers in July 2025. This addition in new subscribers can be attributed to growing employment opportunities, increased awareness of employee benefits, and EPFO's successful outreach programs.

Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation announces new rules: Earlier, partial withdrawals were allowed for 13 complicated conditions. Now they have been clubbed into three broad categories -- essential needs, housing needs, and special circumstances.

What are the new Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation withdrawal rules?

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has reportedly&nbsp;launched a new scheme to promote cleanliness at public toilets at toll plazas. NHAI has promised a reward of Rs 1,000 for those who spot dirty toilets and report them. The money will be credited to their FASTag accounts.<h2>Till when is the scheme valid?</h2>The scheme is valid till October 31, 2025, across all of India's national highways.&nbsp;Those who want to claim the reward of Rs 1000 will have to download the&nbsp;Rajmargyatra app. They will be required to take geo-tagged photos of dirty toilets at toll plazas under the jurisdiction of the National Highways Authority of India. The photos must also have the time stamp.&nbsp;They will have to submit&nbsp;their names, mobile phones, and Vehicle Registration Numbers (VRN) on the application. The money will be credited to the person's&nbsp; FASTag account.&nbsp;One VRN is eligible to get Rs 1000 only once.<h2>What are the rules for the National Highways Authority of India's toilet scheme?</h2>Toilets maintained by NHAI are only covered under the scheme.&nbsp;Here are the key points about the reward scheme for VRNs (Volunteer Reporter Numbers) reporting toilet facilities through the Rajmargyatra app: - Each VRN gets a Rs 1,000 reward once for the entire scheme duration. - Reward for reporting a toilet facility is given only once per day. - If multiple users report the same toilet, only the first valid image captured through the app gets considered for the reward. - Image Criteria: Images must be: Captured via the Rajmargyatra app; not manipulated, duplicated, dated, or previously reported.&nbsp;These reports will be verified using artificial intelligence. They can also be verified manually.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has reportedly launched a new scheme to promote cleanliness at public toilets at toll plazas. NHAI has promised a reward of Rs 1,000 for those who spot dirty toilets and report them. The money will be credited to their FASTag accounts.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has reportedly launched a new scheme to promote cleanliness at public toilets at toll plazas. NHAI has promised a reward of Rs 1,000 for those who spot dirty toilets and report them. The money will be credited to their FASTag accounts. Till when is the scheme valid? The scheme is valid till October 31, 2025, across all of India's national highways. Those who want to claim the reward of Rs 1000 will have to download the Rajmargyatra app. They will be required to take geo-tagged photos of dirty toilets at toll plazas under the jurisdiction of the National Highways Authority of India. The photos must also have the time stamp. They will have to submit their names, mobile phones, and Vehicle Registration Numbers (VRN) on the application. The money will be credited to the person's FASTag account. One VRN is eligible to get Rs 1000 only once. What are the rules for the National Highways Authority of India's toilet scheme? Toilets maintained by NHAI are only covered under the scheme. Here are the key points about the reward scheme for VRNs (Volunteer Reporter Numbers) reporting toilet facilities through the Rajmargyatra app: - Each VRN gets a Rs 1,000 reward once for the entire scheme duration. - Reward for reporting a toilet facility is given only once per day. - If multiple users report the same toilet, only the first valid image captured through the app gets considered for the reward. - Image Criteria: Images must be: Captured via the Rajmargyatra app; not manipulated, duplicated, dated, or previously reported. These reports will be verified using artificial intelligence. They can also be verified manually.

National Highways Authority of India's toilet scheme: Those who want to claim the reward of Rs 1000 will have to download the&nbsp;Rajmargyatra app. Here's how to participate in the scheme.

NHAI to give Rs 1000 for reporting dirty toilets | Rules of scheme revealed

Amid job disruptions triggered by the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of India's largest tech companies, has revealed plans to retrain around 100,000 employees every year to meet client demand.&nbsp;The company's chief technology officer, Harrick Vin, told Nikkei Asia that the rise of AI isn't similar to any other technological revolution, as these tools are capable of learning and evolving on their own. He said this technological shift needs a new kind of quality assurance.&nbsp;He said that the company is updating its internal learning programs to retrain around 100,000 employees every&nbsp;year to meet the challenge posed by AI. He said the company is also encouraging its employees to experiment with AI tools and gain practical experience.&nbsp;He said that the AI transformation is challenging, and every company will have to carry out similar exercises.&nbsp;In the previous quarter, TCS's net consolidated profit was Rs 12075 crore. This is 1.4 per cent more than last year.<h2>K Krithivasan on AI</h2>Meanwhile, CEO K Krithivasan said the company’s “deep client engagement and AI-led solutions” would help improve growth momentum in the coming quarters, reported Business Standard.&nbsp;Earlier this year, Tata Consultancy Services said it plans to lay off&nbsp;12,200 employees by March 2026 to make the company future-ready. This is two per cent of its total headcount.&nbsp;The company's employee count has dropped by 20000 since June. The company now employs 593,314 people.&nbsp;TCS is expanding in the UK. It has hired over 5000 employees in the country and launched an AI Experience Zone and Design Studio in London.

Amid job disruptions triggered by the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of India's largest tech companies, has revealed plans to retrain around 100,000 employees every year to meet client demand.

Amid job disruptions triggered by the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), one of India's largest tech companies, has revealed plans to retrain around 100,000 employees every year to meet client demand. The company's chief technology officer, Harrick Vin, told Nikkei Asia that the rise of AI isn't similar to any other technological revolution, as these tools are capable of learning and evolving on their own. He said this technological shift needs a new kind of quality assurance. He said that the company is updating its internal learning programs to retrain around 100,000 employees every year to meet the challenge posed by AI. He said the company is also encouraging its employees to experiment with AI tools and gain practical experience. He said that the AI transformation is challenging, and every company will have to carry out similar exercises. In the previous quarter, TCS's net consolidated profit was Rs 12075 crore. This is 1.4 per cent more than last year. K Krithivasan on AI Meanwhile, CEO K Krithivasan said the company’s “deep client engagement and AI-led solutions” would help improve growth momentum in the coming quarters, reported Business Standard. Earlier this year, Tata Consultancy Services said it plans to lay off 12,200 employees by March 2026 to make the company future-ready. This is two per cent of its total headcount. The company's employee count has dropped by 20000 since June. The company now employs 593,314 people. TCS is expanding in the UK. It has hired over 5000 employees in the country and launched an AI Experience Zone and Design Studio in London.

Tata Consultancy Services on artificial intelligence: He said that the AI transformation is challenging, and every company will have to carry out similar exercises.

TCS CTO reveals company's plans for employees amid AI revolution

Online video piracy is on rising again, &nbsp;and streaming platforms are partially responsible for driving frustrated consumers back to illicit downloads. Streaming services came to the scene as a legal, convenient alternative to the torrents and online content piracy. In the past five years, online piracy of movies, series, and other content has surged, moving closer to the scale seen before giants like Netflix revolutionised content access. While Hollywood studios fought piracy through courts and legislation, leading to crackdowns on torrent sites and piracy platforms, streaming services have been squeezing consumers in recent years through raising subscription fees, aggressive password-sharing restrictions, and fragmented content distributed across multiple platforms. The result? Viewers find themselves subscribing to numerous services to keep up, pushing some back to piracy in order to dodge the rising costs.<h2>Rise of piracy is a consumer baclash against streaming giants</h2>Anecdotal evidence suggests that many consumers now simultaneously maintain paid streaming subscriptions and access content through piracy websites, blending both worlds as they juggle convenience, cost, and availability. We are essentially seeing a return to the early 2010s, when online piracy thrived before streaming’s golden era took hold.Analysts frame this resurgence of piracy as a consumer backlash against price hikes, ad intrusions, and the growing complexity of streaming services. Estimates from MUSO, a leading anti-piracy firm, show global piracy site visits ballooned from approximately 104 billion in 2020 to over 216 billion in 2024 — a staggering 66 per cent increase in just four years, with film and TV downloads leading the surge.&nbsp;The rising costs of streaming services, coupled with new ad-supported tiers and the controversial crackdown on password sharing led by Netflix and followed by others, have depleted the appeal that once drove people away from illegal sources.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/salman-khans-sikandar-leaked-online-3000-pirated-links-pulled-down-on-release-day-8909530">Salman Khan's Sikandar leaked ONLINE: '3000 pirated links' pulled down on release day</a><h2>Streaming was once the darling of entertainment industry but then, this happened</h2>&nbsp;Between 2015 and 2020, the early boom of official streaming offered consumers affordable, on-demand access to vast libraries, often outpacing the speed and convenience of illegal torrenting. But since 2020, particularly in the Covid pandemic and post-pandemic years, piracy has been bouncing back.&nbsp;Rising living costs and what some call ‘streaming fatigue’ — the exhaustion of juggling multiple platforms — have contributed to this reversal.Data from MUSO’s 2023 report revealed that pirated video content attracted over 229 billion visits annually, with film piracy traffic spiking sharply in recent years. Due to conent piracy, the entertainment industry has reportedly lost tens of billions annually worldwide, affecting jobs and revenues across the sector.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-matrix-resurrections-leaked-online-on-torrent-sites-days-before-india-release-438732">'The Matrix Resurrections' leaked online on torrent sites, days before India release</a><h2>Torrenting is being embraced by the young generation</h2>Despite law enforcement actions including site blocking and server raids, torrent sites remain active and continue to serve a dedicated user base. In regions like Sweden, 25 per cent of people - mostly aged 15 to 24 - openly admit to pirating content, often via torrents, viewing streaming as “cable 2.0.”&nbsp;Many users automate torrent setups to build seamless, ad-free libraries, effectively creating their own DIY Netflix without subscription fees.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/housefull-5-akshay-kumar-abhishek-bachchan-s-comedy-film-leaked-online-on-tamilrockers-1749181311760">Housefull 5: Akshay Kumar &amp; Abhishek Bachchan's comedy film Leaked online</a><h2>How streaming industry lost consumer confidence</h2>Streaming giants' recent policies look more punitive than consumer-friendly. Average household spending on streaming in the US is estimated to have climbed substantially, with Netflix’s monthly fees rising from around $8 in 2011 to over $15 in 2023.&nbsp;Disney+ and Max have also increased subscription prices, while content fragmentation forced consumers to juggle multiple subscriptions—sometimes costing $50 to $100 monthly per househild. These amounts often surpass the expense of traditional cable TV.Streaming platforms have introduced cheaper, ad-supported plans, yet “ad creep” has begun to infiltrate even so-called ad-free tiers, prompting complaints about interruptions that users once avoided by pirating content.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/scam-worth-rs-22-400-crore-killing-bollywood-piracy-hurting-business-of-hindi-films-1747881065974">Scam worth Rs 22,400 crore killing Bollywood: Piracy hurting business of Hindi films</a>&nbsp;The “seamless viewing experience” is increasingly cited as a key factor driving consumers toward piracy, which offers uninterrupted access without ads or limits.The fragmentation of content licensing has exacerbated the issue. Disney’s withdrawal of its titles from competing platforms, and the constant shuffle of exclusives mean viewers are forced into a frustrating hunt across multiple apps. As a consequence, more than 90 per cent of piracy traffic in 2023 targeted movies and TV shows.Password-sharing crackdowns, especially those initiated by Netflix in 2023, have stirred dissatisfaction among younger viewers who traditionally shared family accounts. For many, piracy now appears as the easiest, cheapest solution when faced with subscription fees hovering around $15 or more per service.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-s-largest-sports-piracy-site-shut-down-1757011258408/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-s-largest-sports-piracy-site-shut-down-1757011258408/embed</a><h2>Users view piracy as acceptable&nbsp;</h2>When legal alternatives feel overpriced or bogged down with ads, surveys are showing that viewrs think piracy is acceptable. Industry experts like Andy Chatterley of MUSO highlighted that piracy fills the “seamless viewing experience” gap left by streaming services, offering users access, affordability, and ownership—albeit illegally.While unlicensed streaming dominates much piracy traffic, torrents still play a significant role, prized for their high-quality downloads and offline viewing capabilities.&nbsp;<h2>Streamers are prioritising profit over experience. It will hurt them</h2>&nbsp;As streaming platforms prioritise profits over consumer convenience, piracy will continue its resurgence.If streaming services fail to heed the lessons of the torrent era and address consumer frustrations with pricing, ads, and content fragmentation, the entertainment industry could face substantial revenue losses in the coming years.&nbsp;The data and consumer sentiment tell a clear story: frustration is winning, and the mantra “Can’t pay, won’t pay” echoes louder than ever.

Online video piracy is surging again as streaming platforms have lost the plot on consumer confidence by raising prices, cracking down on password sharing, and fragmenting content. Frustrated users are going back to torrents and piracy sites. Here is a warning shot:

Online video piracy is on rising again, and streaming platforms are partially responsible for driving frustrated consumers back to illicit downloads. Streaming services came to the scene as a legal, convenient alternative to the torrents and online content piracy. In the past five years, online piracy of movies, series, and other content has surged, moving closer to the scale seen before giants like Netflix revolutionised content access. While Hollywood studios fought piracy through courts and legislation, leading to crackdowns on torrent sites and piracy platforms, streaming services have been squeezing consumers in recent years through raising subscription fees, aggressive password-sharing restrictions, and fragmented content distributed across multiple platforms. The result? Viewers find themselves subscribing to numerous services to keep up, pushing some back to piracy in order to dodge the rising costs. Rise of piracy is a consumer baclash against streaming giants Anecdotal evidence suggests that many consumers now simultaneously maintain paid streaming subscriptions and access content through piracy websites, blending both worlds as they juggle convenience, cost, and availability. We are essentially seeing a return to the early 2010s, when online piracy thrived before streaming’s golden era took hold. Analysts frame this resurgence of piracy as a consumer backlash against price hikes, ad intrusions, and the growing complexity of streaming services. Estimates from MUSO, a leading anti-piracy firm, show global piracy site visits ballooned from approximately 104 billion in 2020 to over 216 billion in 2024 — a staggering 66 per cent increase in just four years, with film and TV downloads leading the surge. The rising costs of streaming services, coupled with new ad-supported tiers and the controversial crackdown on password sharing led by Netflix and followed by others, have depleted the appeal that once drove people away from illegal sources. Also read: Salman Khan's Sikandar leaked ONLINE: '3000 pirated links' pulled down on release day Streaming was once the darling of entertainment industry but then, this happened Between 2015 and 2020, the early boom of official streaming offered consumers affordable, on-demand access to vast libraries, often outpacing the speed and convenience of illegal torrenting. But since 2020, particularly in the Covid pandemic and post-pandemic years, piracy has been bouncing back. Rising living costs and what some call ‘streaming fatigue’ — the exhaustion of juggling multiple platforms — have contributed to this reversal. Data from MUSO’s 2023 report revealed that pirated video content attracted over 229 billion visits annually, with film piracy traffic spiking sharply in recent years. Due to conent piracy, the entertainment industry has reportedly lost tens of billions annually worldwide, affecting jobs and revenues across the sector. Also read: 'The Matrix Resurrections' leaked online on torrent sites, days before India release Torrenting is being embraced by the young generation Despite law enforcement actions including site blocking and server raids, torrent sites remain active and continue to serve a dedicated user base. In regions like Sweden, 25 per cent of people - mostly aged 15 to 24 - openly admit to pirating content, often via torrents, viewing streaming as “cable 2.0.” Many users automate torrent setups to build seamless, ad-free libraries, effectively creating their own DIY Netflix without subscription fees. Also read: Housefull 5: Akshay Kumar & Abhishek Bachchan's comedy film Leaked online How streaming industry lost consumer confidence Streaming giants' recent policies look more punitive than consumer-friendly. Average household spending on streaming in the US is estimated to have climbed substantially, with Netflix’s monthly fees rising from around $8 in 2011 to over $15 in 2023. Disney+ and Max have also increased subscription prices, while content fragmentation forced consumers to juggle multiple subscriptions—sometimes costing $50 to $100 monthly per househild. These amounts often surpass the expense of traditional cable TV. Streaming platforms have introduced cheaper, ad-supported plans, yet “ad creep” has begun to infiltrate even so-called ad-free tiers, prompting complaints about interruptions that users once avoided by pirating content. Also read: Scam worth Rs 22,400 crore killing Bollywood: Piracy hurting business of Hindi films The “seamless viewing experience” is increasingly cited as a key factor driving consumers toward piracy, which offers uninterrupted access without ads or limits. The fragmentation of content licensing has exacerbated the issue. Disney’s withdrawal of its titles from competing platforms, and the constant shuffle of exclusives mean viewers are forced into a frustrating hunt across multiple apps. As a consequence, more than 90 per cent of piracy traffic in 2023 targeted movies and TV shows. Password-sharing crackdowns, especially those initiated by Netflix in 2023, have stirred dissatisfaction among younger viewers who traditionally shared family accounts. For many, piracy now appears as the easiest, cheapest solution when faced with subscription fees hovering around $15 or more per service. https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-s-largest-sports-piracy-site-shut-down-1757011258408/embed Users view piracy as acceptable When legal alternatives feel overpriced or bogged down with ads, surveys are showing that viewrs think piracy is acceptable. Industry experts like Andy Chatterley of MUSO highlighted that piracy fills the “seamless viewing experience” gap left by streaming services, offering users access, affordability, and ownership—albeit illegally. While unlicensed streaming dominates much piracy traffic, torrents still play a significant role, prized for their high-quality downloads and offline viewing capabilities. Streamers are prioritising profit over experience. It will hurt them As streaming platforms prioritise profits over consumer convenience, piracy will continue its resurgence. If streaming services fail to heed the lessons of the torrent era and address consumer frustrations with pricing, ads, and content fragmentation, the entertainment industry could face substantial revenue losses in the coming years. The data and consumer sentiment tell a clear story: frustration is winning, and the mantra “Can’t pay, won’t pay” echoes louder than ever.

Online video piracy is surging again as streaming platforms have lost the plot on consumer confidence by raising prices, cracking down on password sharing, and fragmenting content. Frustrated users are going back to torrents and piracy sites. Here is a warning shot:

Online video piracy is growing. Streaming platforms' anti-consumer moves are part of the problem

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on Tuesday announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTT DATA Japan, a core subsidiary of the NTT DATA Group and a provider of IT and business services headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In the future, the deal may enable the use of UPI in the Asian economic powerhouse. Indian tourists may be allowed to use the technology to make payments in the country.<h2>All you need to know about the agreement</h2>A statement said that the MoU sets up the foundation required for a strategic alliance and marks a step towards the use of India's UPI in the Japanese market by Indian tourists. NTT Data Japan operated the country's biggest card payment processing networks, which connect a wide range of acquirers, issuers, merchants, and ATM operators across the country, providing the backbone for Japan's payment infrastructure.&nbsp;India's NIPL and NTT DATA Japan will facilitate UPI acceptance across NTT DATA-acquired merchant locations throughout Japan.&nbsp;The integration of UPI will enable businesspeople in Japan to ensure faster checkouts, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive business growth.&nbsp;Japan is a popular tourist destination in India. In the first eight months of 2025, 208,000 visitors travelled to Japan, a 36 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.&nbsp;After the implementation of the deal, Indian tourists will be able to make UPI-based payments to merchants in Japan by scanning QR codes using their familiar UPI applications.&nbsp;"This partnership is an important step toward improving the digital payment experience for Indian travellers and simplifying cross-border payments. It also reflects our ambition to take UPI to more international markets and establish it as one of the most trusted digital payment systems globally," Ritesh Shukla, MD &amp; CEO of NPCI International, said.&nbsp;Masanori Kurihara, Head of Payments in Japan, said that UPI would help Japanese merchants capture new opportunities.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on Tuesday announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTT DATA Japan, a core subsidiary of the NTT DATA Group and a provider of IT and business services headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) on Tuesday announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTT DATA Japan, a core subsidiary of the NTT DATA Group and a provider of IT and business services headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. In the future, the deal may enable the use of UPI in the Asian economic powerhouse. Indian tourists may be allowed to use the technology to make payments in the country. All you need to know about the agreement A statement said that the MoU sets up the foundation required for a strategic alliance and marks a step towards the use of India's UPI in the Japanese market by Indian tourists. NTT Data Japan operated the country's biggest card payment processing networks, which connect a wide range of acquirers, issuers, merchants, and ATM operators across the country, providing the backbone for Japan's payment infrastructure. India's NIPL and NTT DATA Japan will facilitate UPI acceptance across NTT DATA-acquired merchant locations throughout Japan. The integration of UPI will enable businesspeople in Japan to ensure faster checkouts, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive business growth. Japan is a popular tourist destination in India. In the first eight months of 2025, 208,000 visitors travelled to Japan, a 36 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. After the implementation of the deal, Indian tourists will be able to make UPI-based payments to merchants in Japan by scanning QR codes using their familiar UPI applications. "This partnership is an important step toward improving the digital payment experience for Indian travellers and simplifying cross-border payments. It also reflects our ambition to take UPI to more international markets and establish it as one of the most trusted digital payment systems globally," Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO of NPCI International, said. Masanori Kurihara, Head of Payments in Japan, said that UPI would help Japanese merchants capture new opportunities.

UPI in Japan: India's NIPL and NTT DATA Japan will facilitate UPI acceptance across NTT DATA-acquired merchant locations throughout Japan.

UPI for Indian tourists in Japan? Memorandum of Understanding signed

Google will build a data center in India to advance its artificial intelligence plans. The center will come up in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam. The US-based company plans to invest $15 billion over five years to set up the new AI hub, which will include large-scale energy sources and an expanded optical fiber network.&nbsp;&nbsp;Google CEO Sundar Pichai wrote in a post on X that he shared the company's plans with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;"Great to speak with India PM Narendra Modi, to share our plans for the first-ever Google AI hub in Visakhapatnam, a landmark development," he wrote on X.&nbsp;He said the AI hub will entail gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea gateway, and large-scale energy infrastructure. He said that the AI centre will also accelerate AI innovation in India.&nbsp;"This hub combines gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea gateway, and large-scale energy infrastructure. Through it, we will bring our industry-leading technology to enterprises and users in India, accelerating AI innovation and driving growth across the country," he added.<h2>What PM Modi said on Google's AI plans in India</h2>Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Google's initiative will be a powerful force in democratizing technology.&nbsp;"Delighted by the launch of the Google AI Hub in the dynamic city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This multi-faceted investment that includes gigawatt-scale data centre infrastructure aligns with our vision to build a Viksit Bharat. It will be a powerful force in democratizing technology. It will also ensure AI for All, delivering cutting-edge tools to our citizens, boosting our digital economy and securing India’s place as a global technology leader," he wrote on X.&nbsp;The hub will likely be powered by green energy. The initiative will be developed in close collaboration with partners such as AdaniConneX and Airtel, reported ANI.&nbsp;The plan also includes investment in new transmission lines, renewable power generation, and energy storage systems across Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said that the Google AI hub will provide the critical foundation to drive growth and enable businesses, researchers, and creators to build and scale with AI.

Google will build a data center in India to advance its artificial intelligence plans. The center will come up in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam.

Google will build a data center in India to advance its artificial intelligence plans. The center will come up in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam. The US-based company plans to invest $15 billion over five years to set up the new AI hub, which will include large-scale energy sources and an expanded optical fiber network. Google CEO Sundar Pichai wrote in a post on X that he shared the company's plans with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Great to speak with India PM Narendra Modi, to share our plans for the first-ever Google AI hub in Visakhapatnam, a landmark development," he wrote on X. He said the AI hub will entail gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea gateway, and large-scale energy infrastructure. He said that the AI centre will also accelerate AI innovation in India. "This hub combines gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea gateway, and large-scale energy infrastructure. Through it, we will bring our industry-leading technology to enterprises and users in India, accelerating AI innovation and driving growth across the country," he added. What PM Modi said on Google's AI plans in India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that Google's initiative will be a powerful force in democratizing technology. "Delighted by the launch of the Google AI Hub in the dynamic city of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This multi-faceted investment that includes gigawatt-scale data centre infrastructure aligns with our vision to build a Viksit Bharat. It will be a powerful force in democratizing technology. It will also ensure AI for All, delivering cutting-edge tools to our citizens, boosting our digital economy and securing India’s place as a global technology leader," he wrote on X. The hub will likely be powered by green energy. The initiative will be developed in close collaboration with partners such as AdaniConneX and Airtel, reported ANI. The plan also includes investment in new transmission lines, renewable power generation, and energy storage systems across Andhra Pradesh. Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said that the Google AI hub will provide the critical foundation to drive growth and enable businesses, researchers, and creators to build and scale with AI.

Google AI Data Hub in India: Sundar Pichai wrote on X that the AI hub will entail gigawatt-scale compute capacity, a new international subsea gateway, and large-scale energy infrastructure.

Google announces AI Data Hub in India, PM Modi reacts | Full details

China on Tuesday responded to Donald Trump's threat of a 100 percent tariff with defiance, promising retaliation against the US. A senior official told the media that Beijing would fight to the end if any country foists a trade war, but is keeping its doors open for negotiations.&nbsp;The second bout of the US-China trade duel was triggered last week by Beijing as it announced sweeping new export controls on rare earths. Beijing, which dominates the production of strategically important rare earths, has ordered&nbsp;companies to seek express approval of the government before selling the materials abroad.<h2>China-US trade war</h2>Rare earths are crucial for the production of electronics. They are also indispensable&nbsp;when it comes to designing and manufacturing defence equipment and batteries used in electric cars.&nbsp;In response, Donald Trump announced&nbsp;that the US would impose export controls "on any critical software" from November 1.&nbsp;He also said that the US would impose a 100% tariff on Chinese goods.&nbsp;An unnamed commerce ministry spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday that China's position remained consistent on tariff wars.&nbsp;"If you wish to fight, we shall fight to the end; if you wish to negotiate, our door remains open," the statement added.&nbsp;The statement found fault with the threat of tariffs.&nbsp;"The United States cannot simultaneously seek dialogue while threatening to impose new restrictive measures. This is not the proper way to engage with China," it added.&nbsp;The remark came after Donald Trump appeared to scale back his threat to retaliate in a social media post on Sunday, saying the US wants to "help" China and that "it will all be fine".&nbsp;Chinese goods currently face US tariffs of at least 30 percent under levies that Trump imposed while accusing Beijing of aiding in the fentanyl trade as well as unfair trade practices, reported AFP. China's retaliatory tariffs are currently at 10 percent.&nbsp;The renewed trade tensions between China and the US have upended the global markets, including India.

China on Tuesday responded to Donald Trump's threat of a 100 percent tariff with defiance, promising retaliation if the US wants to engage in a trade war.

China on Tuesday responded to Donald Trump's threat of a 100 percent tariff with defiance, promising retaliation against the US. A senior official told the media that Beijing would fight to the end if any country foists a trade war, but is keeping its doors open for negotiations. The second bout of the US-China trade duel was triggered last week by Beijing as it announced sweeping new export controls on rare earths. Beijing, which dominates the production of strategically important rare earths, has ordered companies to seek express approval of the government before selling the materials abroad. China-US trade war Rare earths are crucial for the production of electronics. They are also indispensable when it comes to designing and manufacturing defence equipment and batteries used in electric cars. In response, Donald Trump announced that the US would impose export controls "on any critical software" from November 1. He also said that the US would impose a 100% tariff on Chinese goods. An unnamed commerce ministry spokesperson said in a statement on Tuesday that China's position remained consistent on tariff wars. "If you wish to fight, we shall fight to the end; if you wish to negotiate, our door remains open," the statement added. The statement found fault with the threat of tariffs. "The United States cannot simultaneously seek dialogue while threatening to impose new restrictive measures. This is not the proper way to engage with China," it added. The remark came after Donald Trump appeared to scale back his threat to retaliate in a social media post on Sunday, saying the US wants to "help" China and that "it will all be fine". Chinese goods currently face US tariffs of at least 30 percent under levies that Trump imposed while accusing Beijing of aiding in the fentanyl trade as well as unfair trade practices, reported AFP. China's retaliatory tariffs are currently at 10 percent. The renewed trade tensions between China and the US have upended the global markets, including India.

China-US trade war: Donald Trump announced&nbsp;that the US would impose export controls "on any critical software" from November 1. He also said that the US would impose a 100% tariff on Chinese goods.

Days after Donald Trump's tariff warning, China vows to 'fight till end'

LG Electronics India made a robust debut on Tuesday, with its shares listing at Rs 1710 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), at a premium of 50 per cent on the issue price of Rs 1,140. On the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), LG's share prices opened at Rs 1715, at a premium of 50.5 per cent, and remained above Rs 1700, displaying sustained investor interest.<h2>What we know about LG Electronics India's debut on BSE and NSE</h2>LG's IPO captivated investors even before it was listed, as the share prices were hovering above Rs 1500 on the grey market. The shares were trading at a 37 per cent premium.&nbsp;Emkay Global Financial Services, reported Business Standard, has set a target price (TP) of Rs 2,050, up 80 per cent from the issue price of Rs 1,140.&nbsp;Emkay said that the expected revival of demand in the Indian market will likely accelerate LG’s growth, with 13 per cent revenue CAGR over FY26E-28E translating into 14 per cent EPS CAGR.&nbsp;ICICI Securities has also given the share a buy rating. It said that the company has a strong brand positioning and good financial performance. The brokerage expects LG India to report revenue/PAT CAGR of 9.3 per cent/7.9 per cent over FY25–28E.&nbsp;The Rs 11,607 crore IPO was an offer-for-sale by LG Electronics Inc., its parent company.&nbsp;LG Electronics India is one of the biggest home appliance sellers in India. Its portfolio includes washing machines, refrigerators, LED TVs, inverter air conditioners, and microwaves. The company has manufacturing units in India.&nbsp;"The issue was valued cheaper compared to its peers, and the company is debt-free, while its return ratios are also strong. The indications are listing gains of 30-35%," said Prathmesh Masdekar, research analyst, StoxBox, told ET.

LG Electronics India made a robust debut on Tuesday, with its shares listing at Rs 1710 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), at a premium of 50 per cent on the issue rates of Rs 1,140. 

LG Electronics India made a robust debut on Tuesday, with its shares listing at Rs 1710 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), at a premium of 50 per cent on the issue price of Rs 1,140. On the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), LG's share prices opened at Rs 1715, at a premium of 50.5 per cent, and remained above Rs 1700, displaying sustained investor interest. What we know about LG Electronics India's debut on BSE and NSE LG's IPO captivated investors even before it was listed, as the share prices were hovering above Rs 1500 on the grey market. The shares were trading at a 37 per cent premium. Emkay Global Financial Services, reported Business Standard, has set a target price (TP) of Rs 2,050, up 80 per cent from the issue price of Rs 1,140. Emkay said that the expected revival of demand in the Indian market will likely accelerate LG’s growth, with 13 per cent revenue CAGR over FY26E-28E translating into 14 per cent EPS CAGR. ICICI Securities has also given the share a buy rating. It said that the company has a strong brand positioning and good financial performance. The brokerage expects LG India to report revenue/PAT CAGR of 9.3 per cent/7.9 per cent over FY25–28E. The Rs 11,607 crore IPO was an offer-for-sale by LG Electronics Inc., its parent company. LG Electronics India is one of the biggest home appliance sellers in India. Its portfolio includes washing machines, refrigerators, LED TVs, inverter air conditioners, and microwaves. The company has manufacturing units in India. "The issue was valued cheaper compared to its peers, and the company is debt-free, while its return ratios are also strong. The indications are listing gains of 30-35%," said Prathmesh Masdekar, research analyst, StoxBox, told ET.

LG Electronics India BSE-NSE debut: The Rs 11,607 crore IPO was an offer-for-sale by LG Electronics Inc., its parent company. LG Electronics India is one of the biggest home appliance sellers in India.

LG Electronics India debuts at over 50 per cent premium on BSE, NSE | Full details

The United States and India are inching closer towards concluding the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). Both sides have been negotiating the deal in the shadow of Donald Trump's tariff war that has upended the global economic order.<h2>What government sources said about the India-US trade agreement</h2>India and US negotiators have expressed optimism about sealing the deal by the fall deadline, government sources told ANI. An Indian delegation will likely travel to Washington this week to speak with its US counterparts, to iron out pending issues and finalize the initial segment of the agreement.&nbsp;A senior government source told the news agency that India's discussions with the US are progressing on a positive path. The official said the two sides are hopeful that the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement will be concluded within the deadline.&nbsp;During the upcoming talks, the two sides are expected to focus on key market access issues, regulatory cooperation, and expanding trade in the energy and technology sectors.&nbsp;India may also decide to scale up natural gas and renewable energy technologies imports from the United States to further bolster the trade relationship between the two nations.&nbsp;"India is exploring avenues to buy more gas and renewables from the US. This aligns with our clean energy transition goals and helps diversify energy sources," the official said.&nbsp;In August, Donald Trump-led US imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian imports to the US. The move has potentially made Indian imports expensive compared to items sold by their Asian competitors.&nbsp;Parallelly, India is also negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. However, the two sides are discussing pending matters linked to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), as well as trade concerns in the steel, auto, and agriculture sectors.&nbsp;Indian negotiators are expected to visit Brussels&nbsp;this month for another round of discussions on the FTA.&nbsp;The EU is India's third-largest trading partner. The conclusion of the agreement will provide both sides with greater market access and regulatory predictability.

The United States and India are inching closer towards concluding the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

The United States and India are inching closer towards concluding the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). Both sides have been negotiating the deal in the shadow of Donald Trump's tariff war that has upended the global economic order. What government sources said about the India-US trade agreement India and US negotiators have expressed optimism about sealing the deal by the fall deadline, government sources told ANI. An Indian delegation will likely travel to Washington this week to speak with its US counterparts, to iron out pending issues and finalize the initial segment of the agreement. A senior government source told the news agency that India's discussions with the US are progressing on a positive path. The official said the two sides are hopeful that the first tranche of the Bilateral Trade Agreement will be concluded within the deadline. During the upcoming talks, the two sides are expected to focus on key market access issues, regulatory cooperation, and expanding trade in the energy and technology sectors. India may also decide to scale up natural gas and renewable energy technologies imports from the United States to further bolster the trade relationship between the two nations. "India is exploring avenues to buy more gas and renewables from the US. This aligns with our clean energy transition goals and helps diversify energy sources," the official said. In August, Donald Trump-led US imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian imports to the US. The move has potentially made Indian imports expensive compared to items sold by their Asian competitors. Parallelly, India is also negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. However, the two sides are discussing pending matters linked to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), as well as trade concerns in the steel, auto, and agriculture sectors. Indian negotiators are expected to visit Brussels this month for another round of discussions on the FTA. The EU is India's third-largest trading partner. The conclusion of the agreement will provide both sides with greater market access and regulatory predictability.

India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement: Parallelly, India is also negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with the European Union. However, the two sides are discussing pending matters linked to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

India, US hopeful of concluding first tranche of Trade Agreement by fall deadline: Report

Foxconn, which makes&nbsp;Apple iPhones in India, has announced a massive investment of Rs 15,000 crore in Tamil Nadu. The company aims to expand its advanced technology manufacturing operations in the state.<h2>How many jobs will be created by Foxconn's investment?</h2>Guidance Tamil Nadu posted on the social media platform X that the move will generate 14,000 high-value jobs. The investment will generate job roles for engineering graduates and skilled youth.&nbsp;&nbsp;'Guidance' is the Government of Tamil Nadu's nodal agency for investment promotion and single window facilitation.&nbsp;Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin earlier met with a Foxconn delegation led by Robert Wu, the company's India Representative and senior global executive.&nbsp;Tamil Nadu's Minister for Industries, TRB Rajaa, said in a statement that Foxconn will create India's first-ever "Foxconn Desk" at Guidance Tamil Nadu.<h2>What is Foxconn Desk in Tamil Nadu?</h2>This desk will act as a coordination point where projects will be fast-tracked. He said that Foxconn will bring to Tamil Nadu its next phase of value-added manufacturing, R&amp;D integration, and AI-led advanced tech operations.&nbsp;"Yet another major boost for Tamil Nadu's electronics and advanced manufacturing sector as Honourable @CMOTamilNadu Thiru. @MKStalin avargal met with Foxconn's India Representative, Mr. Robert Wu, to reaffirm their deep trust in Tamil Nadu with substantial investment commitments," he wrote on X.&nbsp;The company wants to shift its focus from assembling smartphones to production and innovation. The Foxconn Desk will help achieve this goal by "seamless facilitation and mission-mode execution", said the minister.

Foxconn, which makes Apple iPhones in India, has announced a massive investment of Rs 15,000 crore in Tamil Nadu. 

Foxconn, which makes Apple iPhones in India, has announced a massive investment of Rs 15,000 crore in Tamil Nadu. The company aims to expand its advanced technology manufacturing operations in the state. How many jobs will be created by Foxconn's investment? Guidance Tamil Nadu posted on the social media platform X that the move will generate 14,000 high-value jobs. The investment will generate job roles for engineering graduates and skilled youth. 'Guidance' is the Government of Tamil Nadu's nodal agency for investment promotion and single window facilitation. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin earlier met with a Foxconn delegation led by Robert Wu, the company's India Representative and senior global executive. Tamil Nadu's Minister for Industries, TRB Rajaa, said in a statement that Foxconn will create India's first-ever "Foxconn Desk" at Guidance Tamil Nadu. What is Foxconn Desk in Tamil Nadu? This desk will act as a coordination point where projects will be fast-tracked. He said that Foxconn will bring to Tamil Nadu its next phase of value-added manufacturing, R&D integration, and AI-led advanced tech operations. "Yet another major boost for Tamil Nadu's electronics and advanced manufacturing sector as Honourable @CMOTamilNadu Thiru. @MKStalin avargal met with Foxconn's India Representative, Mr. Robert Wu, to reaffirm their deep trust in Tamil Nadu with substantial investment commitments," he wrote on X. The company wants to shift its focus from assembling smartphones to production and innovation. The Foxconn Desk will help achieve this goal by "seamless facilitation and mission-mode execution", said the minister.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin earlier met with a Foxconn delegation led by Robert Wu, the company's India Representative and senior global executive.

iPhone-maker Foxconn to invest Rs 15000 cr in Tamil Nadu, create jobs

A survey claimed that E20 fuel has reduced the mileage of vehicles and increased the maintenance cost of older petrol vehicles. The survey comes weeks after Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari rejected claims on social media that the E-20 fuel -- a blend of petrol with ethanol -- is detrimental&nbsp;to engine longevity.&nbsp;A new survey by LocalCircles revealed that 8 in every 10 petrol vehicle owners who purchased their vehicles in 2022 or earlier have said that their fuel efficiency has dropped this year.&nbsp;LocalCircles received 36,000 responses from petrol vehicle owners across 323 districts in India. These respondents include men, women. 45 per cent of people were from Tier-I cities, 27 per cent from Tier-II, and 28 per cent from smaller towns.&nbsp;The survey found, according to Business Standard, that over half of the respondents faced more wear and tear and repairs in 2025 than before. They said they had been facing issues in the engine, fuel line, tank, and carburetor.&nbsp;The government has said that E-20 is a cleaner fuel. They contend that blending 20 per cent ethanol with petrol will cut India's import bills.<h2>What did Nitin Gadkari say on Ethanol?</h2>In September, Gadkari had stressed the need to start exporting Ethanol.&nbsp;"It is the time for India's futuristic development. We need to reduce our imports and increase our exports. As far as the surplus of ethanol, it is now the requirement of the country that we need to export ethanol," he said.&nbsp;Nitin Gadkari said that India can rapidly scale up its ethanol production. He said farmers are earning Rs 45000 crore more every year because of the government's ethanol policies.&nbsp;"Diversifying agriculture towards energy is the need of the hour," he added.

A survey claimed that E20 fuel has reduced the mileage of vehicles and increased the maintenance cost of older petrol vehicles.

A survey claimed that E20 fuel has reduced the mileage of vehicles and increased the maintenance cost of older petrol vehicles. The survey comes weeks after Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari rejected claims on social media that the E-20 fuel -- a blend of petrol with ethanol -- is detrimental to engine longevity. A new survey by LocalCircles revealed that 8 in every 10 petrol vehicle owners who purchased their vehicles in 2022 or earlier have said that their fuel efficiency has dropped this year. LocalCircles received 36,000 responses from petrol vehicle owners across 323 districts in India. These respondents include men, women. 45 per cent of people were from Tier-I cities, 27 per cent from Tier-II, and 28 per cent from smaller towns. The survey found, according to Business Standard, that over half of the respondents faced more wear and tear and repairs in 2025 than before. They said they had been facing issues in the engine, fuel line, tank, and carburetor. The government has said that E-20 is a cleaner fuel. They contend that blending 20 per cent ethanol with petrol will cut India's import bills. What did Nitin Gadkari say on Ethanol? In September, Gadkari had stressed the need to start exporting Ethanol. "It is the time for India's futuristic development. We need to reduce our imports and increase our exports. As far as the surplus of ethanol, it is now the requirement of the country that we need to export ethanol," he said. Nitin Gadkari said that India can rapidly scale up its ethanol production. He said farmers are earning Rs 45000 crore more every year because of the government's ethanol policies. "Diversifying agriculture towards energy is the need of the hour," he added.

E-20 petrol reducing the mileage of vehicles? LocalCircles received 36,000 responses from petrol vehicle owners across 323 districts in India.

E20 petrol decreasing the mileage of vehicles? Survey claims...

As military conflicts raged in the past five years, a rather 'benign tumour' has been growing in the world, which could become the potential flashpoint of the next wars: the race for critical minerals. Rare earths are the next oil, a potential cause for small to big wars. In essence, countries will likely wage wars over sand. Here is the dystopian view of the future of the 'rare earths wars', which is probably already on.<h2>What are rare earths and why could they become the cause of wars?</h2>The world today runs on rare earths: 17 obscure 'critical elements' powering everything from military systems and clean energy tech to your digital gadgets. From F-35 fighter jets and missile guidance to electric vehicles, wind turbines, and AI semiconductors, these minerals are inside everything. Demand has exploded, but supply is dangerously concentrated in a few countries. China today controls more than 70 per cent of global mining of these elements, and over 90 per cent of their processing. It’s a geopolitical weapon in the hands of China, and its rivals, led by the US, will find any reason to change that status quo.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-lifts-export-ban-on-fertilisers-rare-earths-tunnel-machines-as-wang-yi-visits-india-report-1755581848134">China lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India:&nbsp;Report</a><h2>How China’s rare earths export controls triggered global panic and Trump anger</h2>Last week, China launched sweeping export controls on key rare earths and processing technologies, just ahead of President Xi Jinping’s planned summit with US President Donald Trump, which the latter cancelled in anger. The Chinese curbs applied to holmium, europium, and ytterbium. It also blocked exports of critical magnet materials. Trump then threatened to slap 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods and framed the export bans as a national security threat to the US. In the American view, the curbs were tantamount to economic warfare.In an analysis, the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) warned these curbs could cripple American defence production within months, because without Chinese rare earths, America’s F-35 jets, submarine systems, and precision-guided munitions cannot be built.Decades of offshoring and underinvestment in rare earths have left the US and the West utterly dependent on China, with no viable alternatives in the short term.This is how critical minerals have become strategic leverage, just like oil once was—leading to the West’s excuses for military interventions in producer countries, mostly in the Middle East.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-7-countries-with-the-largest-rare-earth-reserves-see-where-india-stands-1759307993918">Top 7 countries with the largest rare earth reserves: See where India stands</a><h2>Rare earths are already a key factor in conflict zones, from Africa to Asia to Europe</h2>The scramble for rare earths is already playing out as a key aspect in several conflict and post-conflict zones. Trump’s planned re-entry into Afghanistan is being seen by many analysts in the context of the vast untapped reserves that include rare earths, lithium, and copper—at an estimated total value of up to $3 trillion by some accounts.Even before the US withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021 after 20 years of occupation, China had moved in aggressively, having signed multi-billion-dollar mining deals. Before and during the new Taliban regime, Chinese mining workers have been attacked by Taliban-linked groups and Islamic State Khorasan. The region is slowly becoming a battleground not just of jihadist ideology and terror, but of extraction rights. With Trump aides already discussing “securing American interests” in Afghanistan, the Great Game has shifted underground, quite literally.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-china-with-increased-tariffs-and-no-meeting-with-xi-jinping-over-rare-earth-monopoly-policy-market-down-1760120771356">Trump threatens 'massive tariffs' on China, says 'now there seems to be no reason' to meet Xi Jinping</a>&nbsp;As the Ukraine-Russia war continues, mineral geopolitics is on full display. Invading Ukraine gave Russia control of roughly half of its rich rare earth deposits, and much of its graphite, lithium, and uranium. These resources are central to European energy independence and Western re-industrialisation plans.Under Trump, the US struck a deal with Ukraine for preferential access to its critical minerals, tying aid to resource rights—a kind of quid pro quo.Thus, the war has now become, at least partially, about controlling Europe’s last great mineral trove. Russia has weaponised these assets, using export controls and territorial dominance to manipulate markets and supply chains.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-defends-rare-earth-export-curbs-world-business-watch-wion-1760334659059/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-defends-rare-earth-export-curbs-world-business-watch-wion-1760334659059/embed</a>Africa, one of the most mineral-rich regions in the world, is quietly becoming the next arena—even amid civil conflicts. Burundi, Tanzania, and the DRC hold enormous reserves of neodymium, cobalt, and dysprosium, but are also ravaged by decades of internecine wars involving armed groups, armies and governments. In spite of these conflicts, China has managed to dominate mining operations in the African continent for years.Amid the unrest and corruption, Western nations are planning to re-enter Africa strategically in several mineral-rich states, reminiscent of the scramble for Africa during colonialism.Rare earth extraction has been linked to insurgencies, land seizures, and violence in Africa.<h2>A resource opportunity to resource war: How demand-supply gaps could evolve into real conflicts</h2>Rising demand, monopolised supply, and unstable extraction zones—that’s the perfect powder keg that could ignite future wars in places with rare earth resources.Unlike oil, these minerals cannot be easily substituted, stored, or rerouted. Scarcity, strategic value, and long development cycles make them uniquely explosive and vulnerable to conflicts.Rare earths are the new fault lines of power. And the quiet race beneath the surface is already erupting into open confrontations. Whether in Ukraine, the mountains of Afghanistan, the jungles of the DRC, or the Gobi Desert, the next great conflict may be decided not by ideology or territory, but by who owns the minerals beneath our feet. And those who control the flow will control the future. We are not headed toward a rare earths war; we are already in it.

The global race for rare earth minerals is igniting geopolitical tensions that could lead to real wars. The tussles and tariff wars between China and the US is one aspect. The West is vying for control of critical elements, and could cause a new form of resource warfare.


As military conflicts raged in the past five years, a rather 'benign tumour' has been growing in the world, which could become the potential flashpoint of the next wars: the race for critical minerals. Rare earths are the next oil, a potential cause for small to big wars. In essence, countries will likely wage wars over sand. Here is the dystopian view of the future of the 'rare earths wars', which is probably already on. What are rare earths and why could they become the cause of wars? The world today runs on rare earths: 17 obscure 'critical elements' powering everything from military systems and clean energy tech to your digital gadgets. From F-35 fighter jets and missile guidance to electric vehicles, wind turbines, and AI semiconductors, these minerals are inside everything. Demand has exploded, but supply is dangerously concentrated in a few countries. China today controls more than 70 per cent of global mining of these elements, and over 90 per cent of their processing. It’s a geopolitical weapon in the hands of China, and its rivals, led by the US, will find any reason to change that status quo. Also read: China lifts export ban on fertilisers, rare earths, tunnel machines as Wang Yi visits India: Report How China’s rare earths export controls triggered global panic and Trump anger Last week, China launched sweeping export controls on key rare earths and processing technologies, just ahead of President Xi Jinping’s planned summit with US President Donald Trump, which the latter cancelled in anger. The Chinese curbs applied to holmium, europium, and ytterbium. It also blocked exports of critical magnet materials. Trump then threatened to slap 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods and framed the export bans as a national security threat to the US. In the American view, the curbs were tantamount to economic warfare. In an analysis, the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) warned these curbs could cripple American defence production within months, because without Chinese rare earths, America’s F-35 jets, submarine systems, and precision-guided munitions cannot be built. Decades of offshoring and underinvestment in rare earths have left the US and the West utterly dependent on China, with no viable alternatives in the short term. This is how critical minerals have become strategic leverage, just like oil once was—leading to the West’s excuses for military interventions in producer countries, mostly in the Middle East. Also read: Top 7 countries with the largest rare earth reserves: See where India stands Rare earths are already a key factor in conflict zones, from Africa to Asia to Europe The scramble for rare earths is already playing out as a key aspect in several conflict and post-conflict zones. Trump’s planned re-entry into Afghanistan is being seen by many analysts in the context of the vast untapped reserves that include rare earths, lithium, and copper—at an estimated total value of up to $3 trillion by some accounts. Even before the US withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021 after 20 years of occupation, China had moved in aggressively, having signed multi-billion-dollar mining deals. Before and during the new Taliban regime, Chinese mining workers have been attacked by Taliban-linked groups and Islamic State Khorasan. The region is slowly becoming a battleground not just of jihadist ideology and terror, but of extraction rights. With Trump aides already discussing “securing American interests” in Afghanistan, the Great Game has shifted underground, quite literally. Also read: Trump threatens 'massive tariffs' on China, says 'now there seems to be no reason' to meet Xi Jinping As the Ukraine-Russia war continues, mineral geopolitics is on full display. Invading Ukraine gave Russia control of roughly half of its rich rare earth deposits, and much of its graphite, lithium, and uranium. These resources are central to European energy independence and Western re-industrialisation plans. Under Trump, the US struck a deal with Ukraine for preferential access to its critical minerals, tying aid to resource rights—a kind of quid pro quo. Thus, the war has now become, at least partially, about controlling Europe’s last great mineral trove. Russia has weaponised these assets, using export controls and territorial dominance to manipulate markets and supply chains. https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-defends-rare-earth-export-curbs-world-business-watch-wion-1760334659059/embed Africa, one of the most mineral-rich regions in the world, is quietly becoming the next arena—even amid civil conflicts. Burundi, Tanzania, and the DRC hold enormous reserves of neodymium, cobalt, and dysprosium, but are also ravaged by decades of internecine wars involving armed groups, armies and governments. In spite of these conflicts, China has managed to dominate mining operations in the African continent for years. Amid the unrest and corruption, Western nations are planning to re-enter Africa strategically in several mineral-rich states, reminiscent of the scramble for Africa during colonialism. Rare earth extraction has been linked to insurgencies, land seizures, and violence in Africa. A resource opportunity to resource war: How demand-supply gaps could evolve into real conflicts Rising demand, monopolised supply, and unstable extraction zones—that’s the perfect powder keg that could ignite future wars in places with rare earth resources. Unlike oil, these minerals cannot be easily substituted, stored, or rerouted. Scarcity, strategic value, and long development cycles make them uniquely explosive and vulnerable to conflicts. Rare earths are the new fault lines of power. And the quiet race beneath the surface is already erupting into open confrontations. Whether in Ukraine, the mountains of Afghanistan, the jungles of the DRC, or the Gobi Desert, the next great conflict may be decided not by ideology or territory, but by who owns the minerals beneath our feet. And those who control the flow will control the future. We are not headed toward a rare earths war; we are already in it.

The global race for rare earth minerals is igniting geopolitical tensions that could lead to real wars. The tussles and tariff wars between China and the US is one aspect. The West is vying for control of critical elements, and could cause a new form of resource warfare. &nbsp;

Will rare earths cause the next war (or what is common in China vs US, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Africa)?

The prices of gold soared record&nbsp;high on Monday amid the new US-China trade tensions after Beijing enacted restrictions on the export of rare earth materials. Spot gold was up 1.5% at $4,067.79 per ounce, as of 0700 GMT, after having hit an all-time high of $4,078.05 earlier in the session.<h2>What are the potential reasons behind the surge in gold prices?&nbsp;</h2>The rally&nbsp;came days after US President Donald Trump threatened China that he would impose a 100 percent tariff on all imports to the United States. He also announced export controls on critical software by November 1.&nbsp;Other factors affecting the gold rally are geopolitical uncertainties and a weak dollar.&nbsp;Spot silver also rose to $51.60/oz after reaching a record high of $51.70.&nbsp;The prices of the precious metals are also increasing because investors have been anticipating more federal rate cuts in the US.&nbsp;US Fed Chair Jerome Powell will address the NABE annual meeting on Tuesday. Investors anticipate&nbsp;cues about the anticipated rate cut of 25 bps in October.&nbsp;Other precious&nbsp;metals&nbsp;like platinum&nbsp;and palladium also gained.&nbsp;In India, the prices of 24-karat gold had increased to Rs 12,540 per gram.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kyle Rodda, analyst at Capital.com, told CNBC that developments in the Middle East had previously eased pressure on the gold market, but renewed trade tensions between the U.S. and China have reignited safe-haven demand.&nbsp;Heavy sell-offs in global equity markets supported the safe-haven demand for gold.&nbsp;Analysts say&nbsp;that the bullish momentum of gold is expected to continue. However, the precious metal prices might witness potential volatility because of geopolitical developments and the actions of central banks.

The prices of gold soared record high on Monday amid the new US-China trade tensions after Beijing enacted restrictions on the export of rare earth materials.

The prices of gold soared record high on Monday amid the new US-China trade tensions after Beijing enacted restrictions on the export of rare earth materials. Spot gold was up 1.5% at $4,067.79 per ounce, as of 0700 GMT, after having hit an all-time high of $4,078.05 earlier in the session. What are the potential reasons behind the surge in gold prices? The rally came days after US President Donald Trump threatened China that he would impose a 100 percent tariff on all imports to the United States. He also announced export controls on critical software by November 1. Other factors affecting the gold rally are geopolitical uncertainties and a weak dollar. Spot silver also rose to $51.60/oz after reaching a record high of $51.70. The prices of the precious metals are also increasing because investors have been anticipating more federal rate cuts in the US. US Fed Chair Jerome Powell will address the NABE annual meeting on Tuesday. Investors anticipate cues about the anticipated rate cut of 25 bps in October. Other precious metals like platinum and palladium also gained. In India, the prices of 24-karat gold had increased to Rs 12,540 per gram. Kyle Rodda, analyst at Capital.com, told CNBC that developments in the Middle East had previously eased pressure on the gold market, but renewed trade tensions between the U.S. and China have reignited safe-haven demand. Heavy sell-offs in global equity markets supported the safe-haven demand for gold. Analysts say that the bullish momentum of gold is expected to continue. However, the precious metal prices might witness potential volatility because of geopolitical developments and the actions of central banks.

Why have the gold prices rallied? Heavy sell-offs in global equity markets supported the safe-haven demand for gold. The fresh US-China tensions have potentially contributed to the safe-haven demand for gold.&nbsp;

Gold prices touch a new high. Here's why the precious metal is soaring

The last date for filing the income tax returns was September 16. Now the Income Tax Department has started to credit the income tax refunds to the bank accounts of taxpayers who are eligible for returns. Many taxpayers, however, have complained that their income tax returns had been processed by the department, but they haven't received the refunds. Here's what can be done to rectify delays.&nbsp;Normally, the Income Tax Department takes between 7 and 21 days from the filing of the returns to start processing the refund of eligible taxpayers&nbsp;The Income Tax Department says that it takes around 4-5 weeks for it to credit the refund into the account of taxpayers.<h2>Here's what to do if the ITR refund is delayed</h2>Don't panic if you haven't received the refund, even if your income tax return is processed.Here are the possible reasons for Income Tax refund delays1. You may have put the wrong account details or the IFSC code. 2. TDS errors could also delay your refunds.&nbsp; 3. Sometimes, banks take 15-30 days to issue refunds. 4. There could be discrepancies in Form 26AS.<h2>Here's what you can do. Check the step-by-step guide.</h2>1. Visit the Official Portal. Use your credentials to log in. 3. Check Refund/Demand Status: Navigate to this section to see the status of your refund. 4. Verify Bank Details: Ensure your bank account number and IFSC code are correct. Incorrect details are a common reason for delays. 5. Submit Refund Reissue Request: If details are correct and you still haven't received the refund, submit this request to initiate reissue.

Income Tax Returns: The Income Tax Department takes between 7 and 21 days from the filing of the returns to start processing the refund of eligible taxpayers

The last date for filing the income tax returns was September 16. Now the Income Tax Department has started to credit the income tax refunds to the bank accounts of taxpayers who are eligible for returns. Many taxpayers, however, have complained that their income tax returns had been processed by the department, but they haven't received the refunds. Here's what can be done to rectify delays. Normally, the Income Tax Department takes between 7 and 21 days from the filing of the returns to start processing the refund of eligible taxpayers The Income Tax Department says that it takes around 4-5 weeks for it to credit the refund into the account of taxpayers. Here's what to do if the ITR refund is delayed Don't panic if you haven't received the refund, even if your income tax return is processed. Here are the possible reasons for Income Tax refund delays 1. You may have put the wrong account details or the IFSC code. 2. TDS errors could also delay your refunds. 3. Sometimes, banks take 15-30 days to issue refunds. 4. There could be discrepancies in Form 26AS. Here's what you can do. Check the step-by-step guide. 1. Visit the Official Portal. Use your credentials to log in. 3. Check Refund/Demand Status: Navigate to this section to see the status of your refund. 4. Verify Bank Details: Ensure your bank account number and IFSC code are correct. Incorrect details are a common reason for delays. 5. Submit Refund Reissue Request: If details are correct and you still haven't received the refund, submit this request to initiate reissue.

Income Tax Returns: The Income Tax Department takes between 7 and 21 days from the filing of the returns to start processing the refund of eligible taxpayers

Income Tax refunds delayed despite ITR processing? Step-by-step guide

Famous crypto investor and influencer Konstantin Galich, 32, was found dead in his Lamborghini car with a bullet head wound amid the cryptocurrency market crash. Galich, a Ukrainian, better known as Kostya Kudo, was a well-known figure in the international crypto industry, and his tragic death sent shockwaves through the crypto community. He was found dead on Saturday in the Obolonskyi district of Kyiv with a gunshot wound to the head. The Kyiv Police Department said a firearm registered under Galich’s name was also found at the scene. Though foul play has not been ruled out, police said Galich told relatives that he was feeling depressed due to financial difficulties and also sent them a farewell message on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Galich’s death was also confirmed on his Telegram channel to more than 68,000 subscribers via a post that read, “Konstantin Kudo tragically passed away. The causes are being investigated. We will keep you posted on any further news.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-laureates-abhijit-banerjee-esther-duflo-to-leave-us-move-to-zurich-amid-funding-cuts-1760280303367">Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee, Esther Duflo to leave US, move to Zurich amid funding cuts</a>&nbsp;Galich co-founded the Cryptology Key trading academy and has a following of more than 66,000 people on Instagram, where he shared insights about the industry.The crypto crash was triggered by Donald Trump’s threats to impose 100 per cent tariffs on China within weeks, and around $400 billion was wiped off the value of the crypto market within 24 hours after the announcement.&nbsp;Initial police findings point toward suicide, though authorities have also opened a criminal investigation under the premeditated homicide statute, signalling their caution to fully establish the circumstances.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-sooo-dishonest-and-corrupt-trump-hints-corrupt-sen-adam-schiff-could-be-next-to-face-charges-1760294694036">‘Sooo dishonest and corrupt’: Trump hints Sen. Adam Schiff could be next to face charges</a>&nbsp;Reports indicate that he had been struggling with mounting pressures after the market wipeout jolt.&nbsp;WATCH: Israel-Hamas ceasefire: Trump to visit Israel and Egypt for Gaza peace signing<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-ceasefire-trump-to-visit-israel-and-egypt-for-gaza-peace-signing-1760289632257/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-ceasefire-trump-to-visit-israel-and-egypt-for-gaza-peace-signing-1760289632257/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The crypto world is reeling from one of its worst single-day liquidations since the 2020 pandemic. Over $19 billion in derivatives positions were wiped out in 24 hours, with Bitcoin leading the collapse and dropping over 13% within an hour.&nbsp;Friends and followers of Konstantin Galich remembered him for his transparency and analytical insight. His YouTube and Telegram content had demystified complex blockchain ideas and market risks for thousands, earning him both respect and a following.

Galich co-founded the Cryptology Key trading academy and had a following of more than 66,000 people on Instagram, where he shared his insights. The crypto crash was triggered by Donald Trump’s threats to impose 100 per cent tariffs on China within weeks.

Famous crypto investor and influencer Konstantin Galich, 32, was found dead in his Lamborghini car with a bullet head wound amid the cryptocurrency market crash. Galich, a Ukrainian, better known as Kostya Kudo, was a well-known figure in the international crypto industry, and his tragic death sent shockwaves through the crypto community. He was found dead on Saturday in the Obolonskyi district of Kyiv with a gunshot wound to the head. The Kyiv Police Department said a firearm registered under Galich’s name was also found at the scene. Though foul play has not been ruled out, police said Galich told relatives that he was feeling depressed due to financial difficulties and also sent them a farewell message on Friday. Galich’s death was also confirmed on his Telegram channel to more than 68,000 subscribers via a post that read, “Konstantin Kudo tragically passed away. The causes are being investigated. We will keep you posted on any further news.” Also Read: Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee, Esther Duflo to leave US, move to Zurich amid funding cuts Galich co-founded the Cryptology Key trading academy and has a following of more than 66,000 people on Instagram, where he shared insights about the industry. The crypto crash was triggered by Donald Trump’s threats to impose 100 per cent tariffs on China within weeks, and around $400 billion was wiped off the value of the crypto market within 24 hours after the announcement. Initial police findings point toward suicide, though authorities have also opened a criminal investigation under the premeditated homicide statute, signalling their caution to fully establish the circumstances. Also Read: ‘Sooo dishonest and corrupt’: Trump hints Sen. Adam Schiff could be next to face charges Reports indicate that he had been struggling with mounting pressures after the market wipeout jolt. WATCH: Israel-Hamas ceasefire: Trump to visit Israel and Egypt for Gaza peace signing https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-ceasefire-trump-to-visit-israel-and-egypt-for-gaza-peace-signing-1760289632257/embed The crypto world is reeling from one of its worst single-day liquidations since the 2020 pandemic. Over $19 billion in derivatives positions were wiped out in 24 hours, with Bitcoin leading the collapse and dropping over 13% within an hour. Friends and followers of Konstantin Galich remembered him for his transparency and analytical insight. His YouTube and Telegram content had demystified complex blockchain ideas and market risks for thousands, earning him both respect and a following.

Galich co-founded the Cryptology Key trading academy and had a following of more than 66,000 people on Instagram, where he shared his insights. The crypto crash was triggered by Donald Trump’s threats to impose 100 per cent tariffs on China within weeks.

Famous crypto investor and influencer, 32, found dead in his Lamborghini after market crash

The artificial intelligence revolution has arrived, with AI companies like OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, and AMD announcing massive deals worth billions of dollars. Because of these deals, the valuations of AI and chip firms have risen leaps and bounds. Within months, tech honchos have added billions of dollars to their net worth. Here is a list of people who have gained the most from these AI deals.&nbsp;Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle and the chief technology officer of the tech giant, made $140 billion in the past year, Forbes reported. He is the biggest gainer from the AI-induced stock rally this year. The stocks of the company jumped 73 per cent.&nbsp;Nvidia cofounder and CEO Jensen Huang’s fortune also increased. This is because the company is powering AI engines with its GPUs. His net worth increased by $47 billion this year. His company's shares have risen by 40 per cent.&nbsp;Michael Dell's fortunes also increased over the past few months. Due to his shares in Dell (39 per cent) and his stake in Broadcom (49 per cent), he has become richer by $35 billion.&nbsp;Cloud computing firm CoreWeave’s five billionaires have also gained a lot of wealth because of their IPO. Michael Intrator, Brian Venturo, Brannin McBee, and Peter Salanki have nearly tripled their net worths.&nbsp;OpenAI's valuation has risen from $157 billion in October 2024 to $500 billion. It is the highest-ever valuation for a private company.&nbsp;CEO Sam Altman doesn't have a material stake in non-profit OpenAI. However, he has become a billionaire because of his stake in the nuclear power company Oklo.<h2>Who is Larry Ellison?</h2>Larry Ellison is the chairman, chief technology officer, and cofounder of Oracle. He owns roughly 40 per cent of the company. He lives on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. He also owns around 50 per cent of the media company, Paramount Skydance.

The artificial intelligence revolution has arrived, with AI companies like OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, and AMD announcing massive deals worth billions of dollars. 

The artificial intelligence revolution has arrived, with AI companies like OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, and AMD announcing massive deals worth billions of dollars. Because of these deals, the valuations of AI and chip firms have risen leaps and bounds. Within months, tech honchos have added billions of dollars to their net worth. Here is a list of people who have gained the most from these AI deals. Larry Ellison, the founder of Oracle and the chief technology officer of the tech giant, made $140 billion in the past year, Forbes reported. He is the biggest gainer from the AI-induced stock rally this year. The stocks of the company jumped 73 per cent. Nvidia cofounder and CEO Jensen Huang’s fortune also increased. This is because the company is powering AI engines with its GPUs. His net worth increased by $47 billion this year. His company's shares have risen by 40 per cent. Michael Dell's fortunes also increased over the past few months. Due to his shares in Dell (39 per cent) and his stake in Broadcom (49 per cent), he has become richer by $35 billion. Cloud computing firm CoreWeave’s five billionaires have also gained a lot of wealth because of their IPO. Michael Intrator, Brian Venturo, Brannin McBee, and Peter Salanki have nearly tripled their net worths. OpenAI's valuation has risen from $157 billion in October 2024 to $500 billion. It is the highest-ever valuation for a private company. CEO Sam Altman doesn't have a material stake in non-profit OpenAI. However, he has become a billionaire because of his stake in the nuclear power company Oklo. Who is Larry Ellison? Larry Ellison is the chairman, chief technology officer, and cofounder of Oracle. He owns roughly 40 per cent of the company. He lives on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. He also owns around 50 per cent of the media company, Paramount Skydance.

Who is Larry Ellison? He is the biggest gainer from the AI-induced stock rally this year. The stocks of the company jumped 73 per cent.

Meet the man who earned $140 billion in months due to AI boom

Discover the top 10 countries with the largest shipping fleets in 2024, as ranked by Vessel Value maritime data and valuation company. From Greece and China to Japan and Singapore, see which nations dominate global shipping fleets.

Discover the top 10 countries with the largest shipping fleets in 2024, as ranked by Vessel Value maritime data and valuation company. From Greece and China to Japan and Singapore, see which nations dominate global shipping fleets.

Top 10 countries with the largest shipping fleets – Global maritime powerhouses