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Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-tweak-proposed-content-regulations-to-ease-burden-on-some-sources-272997">Amazon.com</a> Inc founder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/worlds-richest-get-richer-adding-12-trillion-to-their-combined-wealth-271083">Jeff Bezos</a>, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials.

Bezos will participate in an Amazon event in capital New Delhi aimed at connecting with small and medium-sized enterprises, three sources told reporters.

He has also sought meetings with the prime minister and other government officials, with conversations expected to centre around e-commerce, one of the sources familiar with the matter said.

Details of Bezos' visit, including his arrival date and the duration of his stay, are not known.

Amazon did not respond to a request to confirm the visit. The prime minister's office also did not respond to requests for comment.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-holds-meeting-on-gst-simplification-in-delhi-262629">Confederation of All India Traders</a> (CAIT), a group representing roughly 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, said it will protest across 300 cities during Bezos' stay in the country.

CAIT has since 2015 waged a battle against online retailers Amazon and Walmart-controlled <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/start-up-revolution-new-age-billionaires-leaving-boardrooms-to-focus-on-new-business-270238">Flipkart</a>, accusing them of deep discounts and flouting India's foreign investment rules.

Both e-tailers have denied the allegations.

Amazon has previously said its platform provides business opportunities to thousands of small sellers, artisans, weavers and women entrepreneurs. But CAIT is not convinced.

"We plan to organise peaceful rallies against Jeff Bezos in all major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata as well as smaller towns and cities," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-looks-into-flipkart-amazon-festive-discounts-after-retailer-complaints-256043">Praveen Khandelwal</a>, the group's secretary-general told reporters.

"We expect to mobilise at least 100,000 traders in the protests."

With its 1.3 billion population and the world's second-biggest smartphone user base that relies on cheap data for social media and online shopping, India is a key market for US&nbsp;retailers Amazon and Walmart to grow their business.

Discounts on their platforms have helped lure Indians to shop online for everything from groceries to large electronic devices, a phenomenon which traders say has unfairly hurt their business.

New Delhi introduced rules last year to protect nearly 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail, a key voter base, by deterring large online discounts.

The rules forced e-commerce firms to change their business structures, drawing criticism from the United States and straining the two countries' trade ties.

The federal commerce ministry is reviewing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/flipkart-amazon-others-rush-to-pull-vaping-devices-after-india-ban-250626">complaints</a> and evidence filed by CAIT against Flipkart and Amazon, reporters&nbsp;reported previously.

Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials.

Thousands of small-scale traders in India are planning to organise protests against Amazon.com Inc founder Jeff Bezos, who will visit the country next week for a company event and potential meetings with government officials. Bezos will participate in an Amazon event in capital New Delhi aimed at connecting with small and medium-sized enterprises, three sources told reporters. He has also sought meetings with the prime minister and other government officials, with conversations expected to centre around e-commerce, one of the sources familiar with the matter said. Details of Bezos' visit, including his arrival date and the duration of his stay, are not known. Amazon did not respond to a request to confirm the visit. The prime minister's office also did not respond to requests for comment. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), a group representing roughly 70 million brick-and-mortar retailers, said it will protest across 300 cities during Bezos' stay in the country. CAIT has since 2015 waged a battle against online retailers Amazon and Walmart-controlled Flipkart, accusing them of deep discounts and flouting India's foreign investment rules. Both e-tailers have denied the allegations. Amazon has previously said its platform provides business opportunities to thousands of small sellers, artisans, weavers and women entrepreneurs. But CAIT is not convinced. "We plan to organise peaceful rallies against Jeff Bezos in all major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata as well as smaller towns and cities," Praveen Khandelwal, the group's secretary-general told reporters. "We expect to mobilise at least 100,000 traders in the protests." With its 1.3 billion population and the world's second-biggest smartphone user base that relies on cheap data for social media and online shopping, India is a key market for US retailers Amazon and Walmart to grow their business. Discounts on their platforms have helped lure Indians to shop online for everything from groceries to large electronic devices, a phenomenon which traders say has unfairly hurt their business. New Delhi introduced rules last year to protect nearly 130 million people dependent on small-scale retail, a key voter base, by deterring large online discounts. The rules forced e-commerce firms to change their business structures, drawing criticism from the United States and straining the two countries' trade ties. The federal commerce ministry is reviewing complaints and evidence filed by CAIT against Flipkart and Amazon, reporters reported previously.

Amazon boss Jeff Bezos to face 'protests' from traders during India trip

Supreme Court on Friday stayed National Company Law Appellate Tribunal(NCLAT) order which had reinstated Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of Tata group.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tata-sons-moves-supreme-court-over-nclat-order-to-reinstate-cyrus-mistry-as-chairman-271594">Also Read:&nbsp;Tata Sons moves Supreme Court over NCLAT order to reinstate Cyrus Mistry as chairman</a>

Former Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry had earlier said that despite the NCLAT order he would not be taking up the chairmanship of Tata.

On January 2, Tata Sons had moved the Supreme Court against the NCLAT order that had directed reinstatement of Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of the group.

Mistry’s family owns over 18 per cent stake in Tata Sons, the holding company of Tata Group, although its holding with voting rights is only under 4 per cent.

Mistry was ousted as chairman in October 2016, he subsequently resigned from the boards of six group companies.

&nbsp;

Supreme Court on Friday stayed National Company Law Appellate Tribunal(NCLAT) order which had reinstated Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of Tata group. Also Read: Tata Sons moves Supreme Court over NCLAT order to reinstate Cyrus Mistry as chairman Former Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry had earlier said that despite the NCLAT order he would not be taking up the chairmanship of Tata.

Supreme Court on Friday stayed National Company Law Appellate Tribunal(NCLAT) order which had reinstated Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of Tata group. Also Read: Tata Sons moves Supreme Court over NCLAT order to reinstate Cyrus Mistry as chairman Former Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry had earlier said that despite the NCLAT order he would not be taking up the chairmanship of Tata. On January 2, Tata Sons had moved the Supreme Court against the NCLAT order that had directed reinstatement of Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of the group. Mistry’s family owns over 18 per cent stake in Tata Sons, the holding company of Tata Group, although its holding with voting rights is only under 4 per cent. Mistry was ousted as chairman in October 2016, he subsequently resigned from the boards of six group companies.

Supreme Court stays NCLAT order restoring Cyrus Mistry as executive chairman of Tata

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-bonds-reign-supreme-equities-struggle-on-recession-brexit-fears-246318">World stocks</a> set new record highs on Friday and the prices of safe-haven assets such as gold pulled back as investors cheered an apparent de-escalation in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-did-iran-and-us-step-back-from-all-out-war-273243">US-Iran </a>tensions and looked instead toward prospects of improved global growth.

Markets have swiftly reversed the sharp falls seen at the start of the week after the United States killed Iran's most senior general, as investors have concluded that a full-scale military confrontation is unlikely.

The MSCI world equity index, which tracks shares in 49 countries, has quickly resumed its rally and added another 0.12 percent&nbsp;on Friday to hit a new record high. It is almost 1.5 percent&nbsp;above the lows seen on Monday.

European shares also rose, although not quite hitting new records. The pan-European Euro Stoxx 50 gained 0.1&nbsp;and the German DAX 0.23 percent, while Britain's FTSE 100 was unchanged.

The three major share indexes on Wall Street touched new record highs on Thursday, and S&amp;P 500 futures were 0.28 percent higher, pointing to a stronger open ahead of all-important US&nbsp;non-farm payrolls data due at 1330 GMT.

A Reuters poll of economists is forecasting the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/could-a-weakening-us-economy-imperil-trumps-trade-war-against-china-226753">US&nbsp;economy</a> will have added 164,000 jobs in December, down from 254,000 in November, typically a strong month for hiring. Investors will also be focusing on underlying wage growth data for a gauge of underlying labour market strength.

Stock markets have got off to a decent start in 2019 despite US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's decision to kill military commander Qassem Soleimani, the second most powerful figure in Iran, in a missile strike in Baghdad.

FULL CIRCLE

"In the space of a few days we appear to have swung full circle; with investors seem convinced that the problems in the Middle East appear to have settled down, at least for the time being," said Michael Hewson, chief markets analyst at CMC Markets.

"Investors now have the opportunity to focus on the signing of the new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-phase-two-us-china-deal-on-the-horizon-officials-say-264312">US-China phase one trade</a> deal next week, as well as the health of the US&nbsp;economy today, and in particular the labour market which has continued to look resilient," he added.

Adding to the bullish mood, investors welcomed news that sales of Apple's iPhones in China in December jumped more than 18 percent&nbsp;on the year. They digested the report as a prelude to the upcoming visit by China's Vice Premier Liu He, head of the country's negotiation team in Sino-U.S. trade talks, to Washington next week to sign a trade deal.

MSCI's emerging market currency index, although little changed on Friday, hit 1-1/2-year highs on Thursday in what is likely to be its sixth straight week of gains. It has also benefited from three US&nbsp;rate cuts last year.

Safe haven assets extended their drop.

Gold eased 0.1&nbsp;percent&nbsp;&nbsp;to $1,550 per ounce from a seven-year high of $1,610.90 hit right after Iran's missile attack on Wednesday.

Against the Japanese yen, which investors often buy in times of uncertainty, the US&nbsp;dollar strengthened 0.2percent&nbsp;&nbsp;to a two-week high of 109.65 yen.

The dollar was slightly firmer. The euro dropped 0.1percent&nbsp;to $1.1085, its lowest in about two weeks.

Oil prices, which briefly spiked at the start of the week on worries that tensions with Iran would disrupt global supplies, recovered some of their subsequent losses.

Brent crude rose 0.3&nbsp;percent&nbsp;&nbsp;to $65.57 a barrel and was heading for its first decline in six weeks and its biggest since October, down around 4.5%.

US&nbsp;crude oil rallied 0.22percent&nbsp;&nbsp;to $59.69 a barrel but was also on track for its first weekly drop in six, falling 5.3% from last Friday's close.

Government bond yields, which rose on Thursday as investors' nerves about the situation in the Middle East eased, edged lower on Friday.

The benchmark 10-year German bond yield fell marginally to -0.221 per cent but for the week remains up 6 basis points, in a strong signal of investors' willingness to pull back from safe-haven government debt for riskier assets.

The 10-year US&nbsp;Treasury yield slipped to 1.852 percent&nbsp;&nbsp;but it too remains up more than 6 basis points on the week.

"With risk appetite showing little sign of abating following another resurgent 24 hours in markets, the next potential hurdle to jump is the first payrolls Friday of the new decade," said Deutsche Bank macro strategists.

World stocks set new record highs on Friday and the prices of safe-haven assets such as gold pulled back as investors cheered an apparent de-escalation in US-Iran tensions and looked instead toward prospects of improved global growth.

World stocks set new record highs on Friday and the prices of safe-haven assets such as gold pulled back as investors cheered an apparent de-escalation in US-Iran tensions and looked instead toward prospects of improved global growth. Markets have swiftly reversed the sharp falls seen at the start of the week after the United States killed Iran's most senior general, as investors have concluded that a full-scale military confrontation is unlikely. The MSCI world equity index, which tracks shares in 49 countries, has quickly resumed its rally and added another 0.12 percent on Friday to hit a new record high. It is almost 1.5 percent above the lows seen on Monday. European shares also rose, although not quite hitting new records. The pan-European Euro Stoxx 50 gained 0.1 and the German DAX 0.23 percent, while Britain's FTSE 100 was unchanged. The three major share indexes on Wall Street touched new record highs on Thursday, and S&P 500 futures were 0.28 percent higher, pointing to a stronger open ahead of all-important US non-farm payrolls data due at 1330 GMT. A Reuters poll of economists is forecasting the US economy will have added 164,000 jobs in December, down from 254,000 in November, typically a strong month for hiring. Investors will also be focusing on underlying wage growth data for a gauge of underlying labour market strength. Stock markets have got off to a decent start in 2019 despite US President Donald Trump's decision to kill military commander Qassem Soleimani, the second most powerful figure in Iran, in a missile strike in Baghdad. FULL CIRCLE "In the space of a few days we appear to have swung full circle; with investors seem convinced that the problems in the Middle East appear to have settled down, at least for the time being," said Michael Hewson, chief markets analyst at CMC Markets. "Investors now have the opportunity to focus on the signing of the new US-China phase one trade deal next week, as well as the health of the US economy today, and in particular the labour market which has continued to look resilient," he added. Adding to the bullish mood, investors welcomed news that sales of Apple's iPhones in China in December jumped more than 18 percent on the year. They digested the report as a prelude to the upcoming visit by China's Vice Premier Liu He, head of the country's negotiation team in Sino-U.S. trade talks, to Washington next week to sign a trade deal. MSCI's emerging market currency index, although little changed on Friday, hit 1-1/2-year highs on Thursday in what is likely to be its sixth straight week of gains. It has also benefited from three US rate cuts last year. Safe haven assets extended their drop. Gold eased 0.1 percent to $1,550 per ounce from a seven-year high of $1,610.90 hit right after Iran's missile attack on Wednesday. Against the Japanese yen, which investors often buy in times of uncertainty, the US dollar strengthened 0.2percent to a two-week high of 109.65 yen. The dollar was slightly firmer. The euro dropped 0.1percent to $1.1085, its lowest in about two weeks. Oil prices, which briefly spiked at the start of the week on worries that tensions with Iran would disrupt global supplies, recovered some of their subsequent losses. Brent crude rose 0.3 percent to $65.57 a barrel and was heading for its first decline in six weeks and its biggest since October, down around 4.5%. US crude oil rallied 0.22percent to $59.69 a barrel but was also on track for its first weekly drop in six, falling 5.3% from last Friday's close. Government bond yields, which rose on Thursday as investors' nerves about the situation in the Middle East eased, edged lower on Friday. The benchmark 10-year German bond yield fell marginally to -0.221 per cent but for the week remains up 6 basis points, in a strong signal of investors' willingness to pull back from safe-haven government debt for riskier assets. The 10-year US Treasury yield slipped to 1.852 percent but it too remains up more than 6 basis points on the week. "With risk appetite showing little sign of abating following another resurgent 24 hours in markets, the next potential hurdle to jump is the first payrolls Friday of the new decade," said Deutsche Bank macro strategists.

Stocks march back to record highs as Middle East tensions ease

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-bank-videocon-case-enforcement-directorate-grills-chanda-kochhar-husband-and-venugopal-dhoot-231310">ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar</a> and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-videocon-case-court-reserves-order-on-plea-of-rajiv-kochhar-223925">Videocon loan case</a>, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday.

These assets comprise her flat in Mumbai and some other properties belonging to the company of her husband, Deepak Kocchar.

The ED had registered a criminal case in February last year against Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/icici-videocon-case-court-reserves-order-on-plea-of-chanda-kocchars-brother-rajiv-223845">Chanda Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar</a> and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 3,250-crore loan by the bank to the corporate group.

A probe was initiated in the case to find out if alleged kickbacks were generated in the loan deal and laundered to create a tainted asset. 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the Videocon loan case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday.

Former Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ICICI Bank Chanda Kochhar and her family's assets worth over Rs 78 crore have been attached in connection with the Videocon loan case, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Friday. These assets comprise her flat in Mumbai and some other properties belonging to the company of her husband, Deepak Kocchar. The ED had registered a criminal case in February last year against Videocon chairman Venugopal Dhoot, Chanda Kochhar, her husband Deepak Kochhar and others to probe alleged irregularities and corrupt practices in sanctioning Rs 3,250-crore loan by the bank to the corporate group. A probe was initiated in the case to find out if alleged kickbacks were generated in the loan deal and laundered to create a tainted asset. (With inputs from ANI)

Videocon loan case: Enforcement Directorate attaches assets worth Rs 78 crore of former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar, her husband

Uttam Prakash Agarwal, an independent board member with Yes Bank Ltd, resigned from the lender's board and stepped down as head of its audit committee on Friday, citing major corporate governance concerns at the troubled lender.

Agarwal, in a resignation letter seen by Reuters, said there were "serious concerns" around deteriorating corporate governance standards, along with compliance failures, at the bank.

The allegations against the country's fifth-largest private lender by assets could spell more trouble for the bank, and the news sent its stock tumbling 5 percent&nbsp;on Friday.

Yes Bank's shares fell nearly 75 percent&nbsp;last year, as non-performing assets on its books have risen sharply.

Delays in the bank's plans to raise a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/yes-bank-seeks-up-to-2-billion-in-preferential-new-share-issue-265494">substantial sum</a> of fresh capital have also spooked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/yes-bank-in-talks-with-microsoft-other-tech-firms-to-sell-up-to-15-stake-report-254145">investors</a>. The bank has since November been talking about raising up to $2 billion in funds.

Agarwal was appointed to the board in November 2018 by the lender's former managing director Rana Kapoor.

Agarwal in his resignation letter raised concerns about the management practices of the bank's senior leadership team, and said he had shared his concerns with all the relevant regulatory authorities.

His resignation came just ahead of a Yes Bank board meeting on Friday to discuss its fundraising plans.

Uttam Prakash Agarwal, an independent board member with Yes Bank Ltd, resigned from the lender's board and stepped down as head of its audit committee on Friday, citing major corporate governance concerns at the troubled lender.

Uttam Prakash Agarwal, an independent board member with Yes Bank Ltd, resigned from the lender's board and stepped down as head of its audit committee on Friday, citing major corporate governance concerns at the troubled lender. Agarwal, in a resignation letter seen by Reuters, said there were "serious concerns" around deteriorating corporate governance standards, along with compliance failures, at the bank. The allegations against the country's fifth-largest private lender by assets could spell more trouble for the bank, and the news sent its stock tumbling 5 percent on Friday. Yes Bank's shares fell nearly 75 percent last year, as non-performing assets on its books have risen sharply. Delays in the bank's plans to raise a substantial sum of fresh capital have also spooked investors. The bank has since November been talking about raising up to $2 billion in funds. Agarwal was appointed to the board in November 2018 by the lender's former managing director Rana Kapoor. Agarwal in his resignation letter raised concerns about the management practices of the bank's senior leadership team, and said he had shared his concerns with all the relevant regulatory authorities. His resignation came just ahead of a Yes Bank board meeting on Friday to discuss its fundraising plans.

Board member at Yes Bank quits, cites governance concerns

Oil edged further above $65 a barrel on Friday as concerns about a possible renewed spike in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/middle-east-protests-a-tug-of-war-over-who-has-the-longer-breath-263181">Middle East tensions</a> outweighed rising US&nbsp;inventories and other signs of ample supply.

Iran responded to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-orders-killing-of-qassim-suleimani-in-baghdad-271821">US&nbsp;drone strike</a> that killed a top Iranian general on January&nbsp;3 with a missile attack on Iraqi airbases hosting US&nbsp;forces that left no casualties. But a Revolutionary Guards commander said Iran would take "harsher revenge" soon.

"Hostilities may have ended for the time being, but the longer-term risks of conflict have by no means vanished," said Stephen Brennock of oil broker PVM.

"Set against this backdrop, the threat of supply disruptions in the Middle East is very much alive."

Brent crude&nbsp;the global benchmark was up 24 cents at $65.61 by 1155 GMT and was heading for its first weekly decline in six weeks, down over 4 percent. US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate crude&nbsp;added 11 cents to $59.67.

Brent is still below where it was before the US&nbsp;drone strike killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani on January&nbsp;3.

"There has been some de-escalation, but the return of risk is still there," said Olivier Jakob, oil analyst at Petromatrix.

"The closing hours of Friday are traditionally filled by short-covering due to the impossibility to react during the weekend."

Still, there has been no disruption to Middle East production as a result of the flare-up in tensions and other indications this week suggest supply is ample.

Crude inventories in the United States rose last week by 1.2 million barrels, the US&nbsp;Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

That compared with analysts' expectations in a Reuters poll for a 3.6 million-barrel drop.

"There's too much supply out there," a Japan-based based oil executive told Reuters.

In a bid to tackle any build-up of excess supply, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus allies including Russia are embarking on a further cut in production as of January&nbsp;1 this year.

Industry surveys, including from Reuters, showed that OPEC output declined in December ahead of the new pact. Still, production remains higher than the forecast demand for early 2020, according to some analysts.&nbsp;

"The oversupply on the oil market is sizeable," said Carsten Fritsch, an analyst at Commerzbank.

Oil edged further above $65 a barrel on Friday as concerns about a possible renewed spike in Middle East tensions outweighed rising US inventories and other signs of ample supply.

Oil edged further above $65 a barrel on Friday as concerns about a possible renewed spike in Middle East tensions outweighed rising US inventories and other signs of ample supply. Iran responded to a US drone strike that killed a top Iranian general on January 3 with a missile attack on Iraqi airbases hosting US forces that left no casualties. But a Revolutionary Guards commander said Iran would take "harsher revenge" soon. "Hostilities may have ended for the time being, but the longer-term risks of conflict have by no means vanished," said Stephen Brennock of oil broker PVM. "Set against this backdrop, the threat of supply disruptions in the Middle East is very much alive." Brent crude the global benchmark was up 24 cents at $65.61 by 1155 GMT and was heading for its first weekly decline in six weeks, down over 4 percent. US West Texas Intermediate crude added 11 cents to $59.67. Brent is still below where it was before the US drone strike killed Iranian general Qassem Soleimani on January 3. "There has been some de-escalation, but the return of risk is still there," said Olivier Jakob, oil analyst at Petromatrix. "The closing hours of Friday are traditionally filled by short-covering due to the impossibility to react during the weekend." Still, there has been no disruption to Middle East production as a result of the flare-up in tensions and other indications this week suggest supply is ample. Crude inventories in the United States rose last week by 1.2 million barrels, the US Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday. That compared with analysts' expectations in a Reuters poll for a 3.6 million-barrel drop. "There's too much supply out there," a Japan-based based oil executive told Reuters. In a bid to tackle any build-up of excess supply, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus allies including Russia are embarking on a further cut in production as of January 1 this year. Industry surveys, including from Reuters, showed that OPEC output declined in December ahead of the new pact. Still, production remains higher than the forecast demand for early 2020, according to some analysts. "The oversupply on the oil market is sizeable," said Carsten Fritsch, an analyst at Commerzbank.

Oil edges above $65 as Middle East concerns support

The Boeing Company on Thursday released hundreds of 'internal conversations' between its employees, which mostly shows contempt among its working staff.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-the-fall-of-brand-boeing-268899">WION Edit: The fall of Brand Boeing</a> 
 
A majority of the conversations released show that the company's workers were worried about the 737 MAX rolling off of their factory floors, claiming that the variant of the decades-old 737 was "designed by clowns who in turn are supervised by monkeys."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/intelligence-evidence-indicates-boeing-airliner-was-shot-down-by-iranian-surface-to-air-missile-trudeau-273282">Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau</a>

The conversations were released as part of documents handed over to the Congressional transportation committee investigating the design and regulatory certification of the aircraft, which since March 13, 2019, has been grounded worldwide.

The 737 MAX was grounded globally after two air accidents killing all 346 souls on board, in five months. The aircraft will remain grounded until investigations are completed.

US Representative Peter DeFazio, an Oregon Democrat who chairs the Congressional committee. Said that “these newly-released emails are incredibly damning.”

“They paint a deeply disturbing picture of the lengths Boeing was willing to go to evade scrutiny from regulators, flight crews, and the flying public, even as its employees were sounding alarms internally,” DeFazio said in a statement online.

Among the many messages disclosed by the company, one transcript showed an employee asking a colleague whether the other 'would put their family on a MAX simulator trained aircraft', to which they said that 'they wouldn't'.

The reigns of the Boeing Company on Monday will be taken over by board-member David Calhoun, after the former CEO – Gregory Smith was ousted last month.

These conversations released by the company in a bid to be more 'transparent' have greatly added to the pressure that Calhoun is about to receive, in addition to the pressure of having to overhaul the entire company's work culture.

Boeing was willing to 'skip proper training' and distributed licenses to pilots who had flown older versions of the 737 after a simple simulator training course. This made it a very popular variant of the aircraft and was the reason why so many customers were falling in line to place orders.

The same reason is also why so many internal messages between employees at bowing criticised the aircraft, saying "that we have a senior leadership team that understand very little about the business and yet are driving us to certain objectives ".

The Boeing Company on Thursday released hundreds of 'internal conversations' between its employees, which mostly shows contempt among its working staff. WION Edit: The fall of Brand Boeing A majority of the conversations released show that the company's workers were worried about the 737 MAX rolling off of their factory floors, claiming that the variant of the decades-old 737 was "designed by clowns who in turn are supervised by monkeys.

The Boeing Company on Thursday released hundreds of 'internal conversations' between its employees, which mostly shows contempt among its working staff. WION Edit: The fall of Brand Boeing A majority of the conversations released show that the company's workers were worried about the 737 MAX rolling off of their factory floors, claiming that the variant of the decades-old 737 was "designed by clowns who in turn are supervised by monkeys." Also read: Intelligence evidence indicates Boeing airliner was shot down by Iranian surface-to-air missile: Trudeau The conversations were released as part of documents handed over to the Congressional transportation committee investigating the design and regulatory certification of the aircraft, which since March 13, 2019, has been grounded worldwide. The 737 MAX was grounded globally after two air accidents killing all 346 souls on board, in five months. The aircraft will remain grounded until investigations are completed. US Representative Peter DeFazio, an Oregon Democrat who chairs the Congressional committee. Said that “these newly-released emails are incredibly damning.” “They paint a deeply disturbing picture of the lengths Boeing was willing to go to evade scrutiny from regulators, flight crews, and the flying public, even as its employees were sounding alarms internally,” DeFazio said in a statement online. Among the many messages disclosed by the company, one transcript showed an employee asking a colleague whether the other 'would put their family on a MAX simulator trained aircraft', to which they said that 'they wouldn't'. The reigns of the Boeing Company on Monday will be taken over by board-member David Calhoun, after the former CEO – Gregory Smith was ousted last month. These conversations released by the company in a bid to be more 'transparent' have greatly added to the pressure that Calhoun is about to receive, in addition to the pressure of having to overhaul the entire company's work culture. Boeing was willing to 'skip proper training' and distributed licenses to pilots who had flown older versions of the 737 after a simple simulator training course. This made it a very popular variant of the aircraft and was the reason why so many customers were falling in line to place orders. The same reason is also why so many internal messages between employees at bowing criticised the aircraft, saying "that we have a senior leadership team that understand very little about the business and yet are driving us to certain objectives ".

Boeing papers: Would you put your family on a 737 MAX?

Indian shares ended higher on Friday as easing US-Iran tensions pulled down oil prices, while investors awaited December quarter earnings from IT bellwether Infosys Ltd scheduled to be released later in the day.

Cooling crude propped up equities at the third-largest global oil consumer, with the blue-chip NSE Nifty 50 index hitting a record high during the session at 12,311.20.

The Nifty ended nearly 0.33 per cent&nbsp;higher at 12,256.80, while the benchmark Sensex jumped 0.36 per cent to 41,599.72. The Nifty and Sensex posted a weekly gain of 0.25 per cent and 0.33 per cent, respectively.

Coal India Ltd was the top gainer on the Nifty index, closing 3.69 per cent higher.

Shares of Yes Bank Ltd closed 5.39 per cent lower, the biggest loser on the Nifty after its independent director Uttam Prakash Agarwal said he was leaving the private sector lender, citing issues with fundraising and corporate governance.

Shares of IT giant Infosys Ltd closed 1.46 per cent higher ahead of its third-quarter results to be released later in the day.

Tata Motors Ltd shares closed 2.27 per cent higher after reporting a 1.3 per cent rise in December retail sales for Jaguar Land Rover.

Indian shares ended higher on Friday as easing US-Iran tensions pulled down oil prices, while investors awaited December quarter earnings from IT bellwether Infosys Ltd scheduled to be released later in the day.

Indian shares ended higher on Friday as easing US-Iran tensions pulled down oil prices, while investors awaited December quarter earnings from IT bellwether Infosys Ltd scheduled to be released later in the day. Cooling crude propped up equities at the third-largest global oil consumer, with the blue-chip NSE Nifty 50 index hitting a record high during the session at 12,311.20. The Nifty ended nearly 0.33 per cent higher at 12,256.80, while the benchmark Sensex jumped 0.36 per cent to 41,599.72. The Nifty and Sensex posted a weekly gain of 0.25 per cent and 0.33 per cent, respectively. Coal India Ltd was the top gainer on the Nifty index, closing 3.69 per cent higher. Shares of Yes Bank Ltd closed 5.39 per cent lower, the biggest loser on the Nifty after its independent director Uttam Prakash Agarwal said he was leaving the private sector lender, citing issues with fundraising and corporate governance. Shares of IT giant Infosys Ltd closed 1.46 per cent higher ahead of its third-quarter results to be released later in the day. Tata Motors Ltd shares closed 2.27 per cent higher after reporting a 1.3 per cent rise in December retail sales for Jaguar Land Rover.

Nifty, Sensex end higher on cooling oil prices

Indian shares rose on Friday, tracking global markets, as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/could-iran-us-tensions-mean-troubled-waters-ahead-in-the-strait-of-hormuz-273207">US-Iran tensions</a> abated and investors looked for domestic cues ahead of corporate earnings.

The NSE&nbsp;Nifty&nbsp;50 index inched up 0.16 per cent&nbsp;to 12,234.25 by 0413 GMT, while the benchmark <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-jumps-634-points-as-us-iran-tensions-ease-auto-and-realty-stocks-gain-273229">S&amp;P BSE Sensex</a> was 0.14 per cent&nbsp;higher at 41,511.58. The&nbsp;Nifty&nbsp;50 and Sensex are headed for a weekly gain of around 0.5 per cent&nbsp;each.

Meanwhile, easing oil prices came as a relief for investors in India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fresh-hike-in-petrol-diesel-prices-in-india-273300">Brent crude</a> was headed for its first decline in six weeks.&nbsp;

"There were some panic and fears from the global market which is fading out domestic cues are also not that negative, in fact, they are improving," said Shrikant Chouhan, technical analyst at Kotak Securities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-surge-as-easing-middle-east-tensions-steady-crude-prices-273111">MSCI's broadest</a> gauge of the world's stocks in 49 countries rose a tad to hit an all-time high and its index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/asian-shares-erase-losses-as-mideast-tensions-ease-oil-ticks-up-273093">Asia-Pacific shares</a> outside Japan rose 0.18 per cent.&nbsp;

In India, IT heavyweight Infosys Ltd rose 1.44 per cent&nbsp;ahead of its third-quarter earnings due later in the day.

Shares of Indian private sector lender Yes Bank Ltd rose 1.37 per cent&nbsp;ahead of a board meeting on Friday to discuss a capital raise as it looks to stave off the impact of bad loans.

Airline stocks Interglobe Aviation Ltd and SpiceJet Ltd reacted positively to lower oil prices, rising 1.68 per cent&nbsp;and 0.94 per cent&nbsp;respectively.

Bharti Infratel Ltd and Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd were among the top gainers on the&nbsp;Nifty, rising 2.13 per cent&nbsp;and 2.06 per cent&nbsp;each.&nbsp;

Indian shares rose on Friday, tracking global markets, as US-Iran tensions abated and investors looked for domestic cues ahead of corporate earnings. The NSE Nifty 50 index inched up 0.

Indian shares rose on Friday, tracking global markets, as US-Iran tensions abated and investors looked for domestic cues ahead of corporate earnings. The NSE Nifty 50 index inched up 0.16 per cent to 12,234.25 by 0413 GMT, while the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex was 0.14 per cent higher at 41,511.58. The Nifty 50 and Sensex are headed for a weekly gain of around 0.5 per cent each. Meanwhile, easing oil prices came as a relief for investors in India, the world's third-biggest oil consumer. Brent crude was headed for its first decline in six weeks. "There were some panic and fears from the global market which is fading out domestic cues are also not that negative, in fact, they are improving," said Shrikant Chouhan, technical analyst at Kotak Securities. MSCI's broadest gauge of the world's stocks in 49 countries rose a tad to hit an all-time high and its index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 0.18 per cent. In India, IT heavyweight Infosys Ltd rose 1.44 per cent ahead of its third-quarter earnings due later in the day. Shares of Indian private sector lender Yes Bank Ltd rose 1.37 per cent ahead of a board meeting on Friday to discuss a capital raise as it looks to stave off the impact of bad loans. Airline stocks Interglobe Aviation Ltd and SpiceJet Ltd reacted positively to lower oil prices, rising 1.68 per cent and 0.94 per cent respectively. Bharti Infratel Ltd and Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd were among the top gainers on the Nifty, rising 2.13 per cent and 2.06 per cent each.

Nifty, Sensex headed for weekly gain as Mideast tensions ease

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indian-shares-slip-on-year-end-profit-booking-nifty-set-for-13-jump-in-2019-271230">Indian shares</a> rose on Thursday, as crude prices steadied after US-Iran tensions appeared to ebb, bringing relief to the world's No. 3 oil consumer.

Global markets have closely tracked any escalations in the conflict over the US&nbsp;killing of an Iranian general last week, due to fears of disruption to oil supplies, which sent crude prices soaring this week, and the rupee and Indian equities lower.

Broader Asian shares also rebounded on Thursday. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's losses.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-inch-lower-zee-top-gainer-in-nifty-50-263548">NSE Nifty 50 </a>index climbed 1.09 per cent&nbsp;to 12,156.50 by 0403 GMT, while the benchmark S&amp;P BSE Sensex was 1.07 per cent&nbsp;higher at 41,256.14. The Nifty index ended lower on Wednesday, see-sawing between a higher and lower close for each session this week.

"Nothing materially came beside the sanction because of which crude has corrected a lot. That is something which is beneficial for emerging markets and India specifically," said Neeraj Dewan, director at Quantum Securities in New Delhi.

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-stocks-rattled-after-donald-trump-says-no-deadline-on-us-china-trade-deal-266025">Donald Trump</a> on Wednesday tempered days of angry rhetoric and suggested Iran was "standing down" after it fired missiles at US&nbsp;forces in Iraq overnight, as both sides looked to defuse the crisis.

Brent crude futures rose 55 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $65.99 a barrel by 0109 GMT after tumbling 4.1 per cent&nbsp;on Wednesday.

Among major gainers on Nifty, shares of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-close-higher-as-federal-chief-rekindles-rate-cut-hopes-234968">JSW Steel Ltd</a> gained 3.8 per cent&nbsp;and those of Bharti Infratel Ltd rose 4.9 per cent.

Oil marketing companies <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-offload-bharat-petroleum-in-state-stake-sell-off-263518">Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd</a> and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd rose 1.6 per cent&nbsp;and 1.8 per cent, respectively.

Infosys Ltd rose 0.8 per cent ahead of its quarterly earnings on Friday.

Indian shares rose on Thursday, as crude prices steadied after US-Iran tensions appeared to ebb, bringing relief to the world's No. 3 oil consumer. Global markets have closely tracked any escalations in the conflict over the US killing of an Iranian general last week, due to fears of disruption to oil supplies, which sent crude prices soaring this week, and the rupee and Indian equities lower.

Indian shares rose on Thursday, as crude prices steadied after US-Iran tensions appeared to ebb, bringing relief to the world's No. 3 oil consumer. Global markets have closely tracked any escalations in the conflict over the US killing of an Iranian general last week, due to fears of disruption to oil supplies, which sent crude prices soaring this week, and the rupee and Indian equities lower. Broader Asian shares also rebounded on Thursday. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's losses. The NSE Nifty 50 index climbed 1.09 per cent to 12,156.50 by 0403 GMT, while the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex was 1.07 per cent higher at 41,256.14. The Nifty index ended lower on Wednesday, see-sawing between a higher and lower close for each session this week. "Nothing materially came beside the sanction because of which crude has corrected a lot. That is something which is beneficial for emerging markets and India specifically," said Neeraj Dewan, director at Quantum Securities in New Delhi. US President Donald Trump on Wednesday tempered days of angry rhetoric and suggested Iran was "standing down" after it fired missiles at US forces in Iraq overnight, as both sides looked to defuse the crisis. Brent crude futures rose 55 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $65.99 a barrel by 0109 GMT after tumbling 4.1 per cent on Wednesday. Among major gainers on Nifty, shares of JSW Steel Ltd gained 3.8 per cent and those of Bharti Infratel Ltd rose 4.9 per cent. Oil marketing companies Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd rose 1.6 per cent and 1.8 per cent, respectively. Infosys Ltd rose 0.8 per cent ahead of its quarterly earnings on Friday.

Sensex, Nifty surge as easing Middle East tensions steady crude prices

Asian&nbsp;stocks rebounded on Thursday and&nbsp;oil&nbsp;edged&nbsp;up&nbsp;as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays.

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-made-us-president-donald-trump-threaten-iran-271452">Donald Trump</a> responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US&nbsp;forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it would retaliate further over a January&nbsp;3 US&nbsp;strike that killed one of its senior military commanders.

MSCI's broadest index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-asian-shares-lower-as-investors-book-decade-end-profits-271229">Asia-Pacific&nbsp;shares</a>&nbsp;outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's&nbsp;losses.

Japan's Nikkei rose 1.8 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far, while Australian stocks climbed 1 per cent&nbsp;to just below December's record high.

"I think today is a bit of a relief rally," said Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP Capital in Sydney.

"Yesterday, investors were fearing the worst, that this was the escalation now underway. The news overnight has been more along the lines that Iran pulled its punches and Trump is toning things down," he said, "which is seen by investors as substantially reducing the risk of war."

Investors quit the safe-haven Japanese yen, sending it sliding from a three-month high to a two-week low of 109.25 yen per dollar.

Oil&nbsp;now sits just about where it was before the killing of the Iranian commander, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-qasem-soleimani-will-lead-to-the-strengthening-of-iranian-hardliners-272109">Qasem Soleimani</a>, in Baghdad, a strike that raised fears of an escalating regional conflict.

Brent futures prices crept&nbsp;up&nbsp;from month lows hit overnight to $65.84 per barrel, about where they began the year.

Gold gave back sharp gains made on Wednesday but remains dearer than before Soleimani's death, in an indication that investors' fears have not completely evaporated.

It drifted higher to $1,560.00 per ounce.

Iran fired missiles at military bases housing US&nbsp;troops in Iraq on Wednesday in response to Soleimani's killing. But Trump said no Americans were hurt and made no direct threats of a military response in an address to the nation on Wednesday.

"Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," he said. He announced economic sanctions on Iran without giving details.

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-invites-iranian-foreign-minister-zarif-to-brussels-amid-rising-middle-east-tension-272290">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> had earlier said the strikes "concluded" Tehran's response to the killing of Soleimani.

On Wall Street stocks rose, led by the Nasdaq which added 0.67 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&amp;P 500 &nbsp;each rose roughly half a percentage point.

US&nbsp;Treasuries, which had soared in the flight to safety a day ago also settled back, with yields on the benchmark 10-year US&nbsp;Treasury note at 1.8598 per cent, after dropping as low as 1.705 per cent.

Risk appetite was also evident in currency markets, with China's trade-exposed yuan standing at a five-month high of 6.9283 per dollar and the Aussie creeping higher.

"All is well so said,&nbsp;Trump! That is the mood today," said Bank of Singapore Currency Strategist Moh Siong Sim, a reference to Wednesday's&nbsp;upbeat tweet from the president.

"I think that neither side wants to have a further escalation in tension, and both parties seem to be standing down."

Asian stocks rebounded on Thursday and oil edged up as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays.

Asian stocks rebounded on Thursday and oil edged up as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays. US President Donald Trump responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it would retaliate further over a January 3 US strike that killed one of its senior military commanders. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's losses. Japan's Nikkei rose 1.8 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far, while Australian stocks climbed 1 per cent to just below December's record high. "I think today is a bit of a relief rally," said Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP Capital in Sydney. "Yesterday, investors were fearing the worst, that this was the escalation now underway. The news overnight has been more along the lines that Iran pulled its punches and Trump is toning things down," he said, "which is seen by investors as substantially reducing the risk of war." Investors quit the safe-haven Japanese yen, sending it sliding from a three-month high to a two-week low of 109.25 yen per dollar. Oil now sits just about where it was before the killing of the Iranian commander, Qasem Soleimani, in Baghdad, a strike that raised fears of an escalating regional conflict. Brent futures prices crept up from month lows hit overnight to $65.84 per barrel, about where they began the year. Gold gave back sharp gains made on Wednesday but remains dearer than before Soleimani's death, in an indication that investors' fears have not completely evaporated. It drifted higher to $1,560.00 per ounce. Iran fired missiles at military bases housing US troops in Iraq on Wednesday in response to Soleimani's killing. But Trump said no Americans were hurt and made no direct threats of a military response in an address to the nation on Wednesday. "Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," he said. He announced economic sanctions on Iran without giving details. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had earlier said the strikes "concluded" Tehran's response to the killing of Soleimani. On Wall Street stocks rose, led by the Nasdaq which added 0.67 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 each rose roughly half a percentage point. US Treasuries, which had soared in the flight to safety a day ago also settled back, with yields on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury note at 1.8598 per cent, after dropping as low as 1.705 per cent. Risk appetite was also evident in currency markets, with China's trade-exposed yuan standing at a five-month high of 6.9283 per dollar and the Aussie creeping higher. "All is well so said, Trump! That is the mood today," said Bank of Singapore Currency Strategist Moh Siong Sim, a reference to Wednesday's upbeat tweet from the president. "I think that neither side wants to have a further escalation in tension, and both parties seem to be standing down."

Asian shares erase losses as Mideast tensions ease, oil ticks up

The "depth of the devastation" inflicted on Hong Kong's economy by more than six months of anti-government protests will be seen in the coming weeks, the chief executive of the city's stock exchange operator said on Thursday.

Charles Li, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd's (HKEX) CEO, also told a Reuters Breakingviews event that what made Hong Kong great was "one country, two systems" - the framework under which the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

"I think locally listed companies with local exposure are going to take a very big hit. They already are taking a big hit. That's going to continue," Li said.

HKEX posted an 8% drop in profit in the third quarter, its steepest slide in nearly three years, as investor sentiment was hit by months of political unrest that pushed the Asian financial hub into recession for the first time in a decade.

Hong Kong-based companies, mainly from the retail and tourism sectors, are expected to show the scars of the sometimes violent protests that forced businesses to shut and scared away visitors over the next few weeks when they report their annual results.

The anti-government protests in Chinese-controlled Hong Kong have evolved over the months into a broad pro-democracy campaign, with demands for universal suffrage and an independent inquiry into complaints of police brutality.

Many people in Hong Kong are angered by what they see as Beijing's ever-tightening grip on the city that was promised a high degree of autonomy under the "one country, two systems" formula.

Beijing denies interference and blames the West for fomenting the unrest.

HKEX earnings for the full year are, however, expected to be bolstered by a pick-up in share sales in the fourth quarter with e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd raising almost $13 billion from its secondary listing in Hong Kong.

Read:&nbsp;China halts listings between Shanghai, London due to tensions

The Hong Kong exchange launched a surprise $39 billion approaches for the London Stock Exchange Group in September but withdrew it after failing to convince LSE management and investors to back the move.

When asked about potential acquisitions, Li on Thursday said all options were on the table.

The "depth of the devastation" inflicted on Hong Kong's economy by more than six months of anti-government protests will be seen in the coming weeks, the chief executive of the city's stock exchange operator said on Thursday.

The "depth of the devastation" inflicted on Hong Kong's economy by more than six months of anti-government protests will be seen in the coming weeks, the chief executive of the city's stock exchange operator said on Thursday. Charles Li, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd's (HKEX) CEO, also told a Reuters Breakingviews event that what made Hong Kong great was "one country, two systems" - the framework under which the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. "I think locally listed companies with local exposure are going to take a very big hit. They already are taking a big hit. That's going to continue," Li said. HKEX posted an 8% drop in profit in the third quarter, its steepest slide in nearly three years, as investor sentiment was hit by months of political unrest that pushed the Asian financial hub into recession for the first time in a decade. Hong Kong-based companies, mainly from the retail and tourism sectors, are expected to show the scars of the sometimes violent protests that forced businesses to shut and scared away visitors over the next few weeks when they report their annual results. The anti-government protests in Chinese-controlled Hong Kong have evolved over the months into a broad pro-democracy campaign, with demands for universal suffrage and an independent inquiry into complaints of police brutality. Many people in Hong Kong are angered by what they see as Beijing's ever-tightening grip on the city that was promised a high degree of autonomy under the "one country, two systems" formula. Beijing denies interference and blames the West for fomenting the unrest. HKEX earnings for the full year are, however, expected to be bolstered by a pick-up in share sales in the fourth quarter with e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd raising almost $13 billion from its secondary listing in Hong Kong. Read: China halts listings between Shanghai, London due to tensions The Hong Kong exchange launched a surprise $39 billion approaches for the London Stock Exchange Group in September but withdrew it after failing to convince LSE management and investors to back the move. When asked about potential acquisitions, Li on Thursday said all options were on the table.

Hong Kong exchange chief says economic 'devastation' from unrest will soon be apparent

Sales of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-taking-a-deeper-look-at-map-policies-after-calling-crimea-part-of-russia-265344">Apple</a> Inc's iPhone in China in December jumped more than 18 per cent&nbsp;year on year, government data showed on Thursday.

China is gearing up for the Lunar New Year in late January, a major gift-giving holiday.

Apple shipped roughly 3.2 million phones in China in December, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology and Reuters calculations showed.

That was up from 2.7 million a year earlier.

After a peak period in 2015, iPhone sales in China stagnated due to factors including longer upgrade cycles and competition from Chinese rivals.

Sales of phones from China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/some-huawei-suppliers-get-us-approval-to-restart-sales-to-blacklisted-firm-263525">Huawei Technologies</a> Co Ltd have boomed while overseas the company has faced political pressure from Washington over its technology.

In the third quarter of 2019, Huawei accounted for 42 per cent of new phone shipments in China, according to research firm IDC.

Throughout 2019, Apple offered discounts and financing schemes aimed at boosting sales in China.

In the company's last earnings call, CEO Tim Cook suggested that such initiatives were successful in attracting more Chinese consumers.

Apple is scheduled to release its next quarterly financial report in late January.

Sales of Apple Inc's iPhone in China in December jumped more than 18 per cent year on year, government data showed on Thursday. China is gearing up for the Lunar New Year in late January, a major gift-giving holiday.

Sales of Apple Inc's iPhone in China in December jumped more than 18 per cent year on year, government data showed on Thursday. China is gearing up for the Lunar New Year in late January, a major gift-giving holiday. Apple shipped roughly 3.2 million phones in China in December, data from the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology and Reuters calculations showed. That was up from 2.7 million a year earlier. After a peak period in 2015, iPhone sales in China stagnated due to factors including longer upgrade cycles and competition from Chinese rivals. Sales of phones from China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd have boomed while overseas the company has faced political pressure from Washington over its technology. In the third quarter of 2019, Huawei accounted for 42 per cent of new phone shipments in China, according to research firm IDC. Throughout 2019, Apple offered discounts and financing schemes aimed at boosting sales in China. In the company's last earnings call, CEO Tim Cook suggested that such initiatives were successful in attracting more Chinese consumers. Apple is scheduled to release its next quarterly financial report in late January.

Apple's iPhone sales in China up 18 per cent in December: Report

The start of winter sales in Paris on Wednesday (January 8) - traditionally a big event for French retailers - is unlikely to make up for a dismal Christmas period, store directors and owners bemoaned as shoppers pushed through the doors of high-end department stores such as the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps.

Winter sales offer little relief for retailers in Paris, worried over continuing strikes

Bulls regained control on the D-Street amid softening crude oil prices on Thursday following optimism in global markets after US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/donald-trumps-attitude-towards-india-unpredictable-unreliable-238560">Donald Trump</a>'s comments on the Iran conflict eased worries and improved risk appetite.

The cooling off of oil prices lifted market sentiment as India imports more than 85 per cent of its requirement. The international benchmark Brent crude futures fell by 4.1 per cent amid volatility in the previous session and traded around 65 dollars a barrel.

The rally was also be attributed to expectations as the government is readying a set of bold initiatives to be announced in the Union Budget for 2020-21 which could bring a quick turnaround in the economy.

The BSE S&amp;P Sensex closed 634 points or 1.55 per cent higher at 41,451 while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/nifty-sensex-inch-lower-zee-top-gainer-in-nifty-50-263548">Nifty 50</a> moved up by 188 points at 12,214.

Except for Nifty IT, all sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the green with Nifty realty ticking up by 2.73 per cent, auto by 2.68 per cent, PSU bank by 2.41 per cent and metal by 1.43 per cent.

Among stocks, JSW Steel was the top gainer at Rs 278 per share, up by 5.9 per cent. Private lenders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/lower-provisions-help-icici-bank-swing-to-first-quarter-profit-238840">ICICI Bank</a>, IndusInd Bank and Yes Bank advanced by 3.7 per cent, 3.3 per cent and 2.9 per cent respectively while state-owned State Bank of India ticked up by 3.2 per cent.

Auto majors Tata Motors, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra and Maruti gained by 5.4 per cent, 3.2 per cent and 2.9 per cent. Shares of Reliance Industries rose by 2.25 per cent at Rs 1,547.95 after Morgan Stanley said it expects strong growth in its retail and telecom businesses.

However, IT majors Tata Consultancy Services and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/market-rebounds-on-easing-crude-firming-rupee-hcl-tech-cracks-6-points-182083">HCL Technologies</a> showed marginal losses along with Coal India, GAIL and Britannia.

Meanwhile, Asian stocks rebounded as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East.

Trump responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it will retaliate further over a January 3 US strike that killed one of its senior military commanders.

Japan's Nikkei rose by 2.31 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far. Hong Kong's Hang Seng climbed up by 1.68 per cent while South Korea's Kospi inched up by 1.63 per cent.

The Shanghai Composite index too moved up by 0.91 per cent after the government announced that China's Vice Premier Liu He, head of the country's negotiation team in US-China trade talks, will sign phase one of the deal in Washington next week.

Bulls regained control on the D-Street amid softening crude oil prices on Thursday following optimism in global markets after US President Donald Trump's comments on the Iran conflict eased worries and improved risk appetite.

Bulls regained control on the D-Street amid softening crude oil prices on Thursday following optimism in global markets after US President Donald Trump's comments on the Iran conflict eased worries and improved risk appetite. The cooling off of oil prices lifted market sentiment as India imports more than 85 per cent of its requirement. The international benchmark Brent crude futures fell by 4.1 per cent amid volatility in the previous session and traded around 65 dollars a barrel. The rally was also be attributed to expectations as the government is readying a set of bold initiatives to be announced in the Union Budget for 2020-21 which could bring a quick turnaround in the economy. The BSE S&P Sensex closed 634 points or 1.55 per cent higher at 41,451 while the Nifty 50 moved up by 188 points at 12,214. Except for Nifty IT, all sectoral indices at the National Stock Exchange were in the green with Nifty realty ticking up by 2.73 per cent, auto by 2.68 per cent, PSU bank by 2.41 per cent and metal by 1.43 per cent. Among stocks, JSW Steel was the top gainer at Rs 278 per share, up by 5.9 per cent. Private lenders ICICI Bank, IndusInd Bank and Yes Bank advanced by 3.7 per cent, 3.3 per cent and 2.9 per cent respectively while state-owned State Bank of India ticked up by 3.2 per cent. Auto majors Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti gained by 5.4 per cent, 3.2 per cent and 2.9 per cent. Shares of Reliance Industries rose by 2.25 per cent at Rs 1,547.95 after Morgan Stanley said it expects strong growth in its retail and telecom businesses. However, IT majors Tata Consultancy Services and HCL Technologies showed marginal losses along with Coal India, GAIL and Britannia. Meanwhile, Asian stocks rebounded as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East. Trump responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it will retaliate further over a January 3 US strike that killed one of its senior military commanders. Japan's Nikkei rose by 2.31 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far. Hong Kong's Hang Seng climbed up by 1.68 per cent while South Korea's Kospi inched up by 1.63 per cent. The Shanghai Composite index too moved up by 0.91 per cent after the government announced that China's Vice Premier Liu He, head of the country's negotiation team in US-China trade talks, will sign phase one of the deal in Washington next week.

Sensex jumps 634 points as US-Iran tensions ease, auto and realty stocks gain

India, Malaysia ties&nbsp;are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia.

The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.&nbsp;

India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia.&nbsp;

Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/caa-fallout-member-of-malaysian-central-government-coalition-says-pm-mahathir-has-overreacted-269450">CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted</a>

New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/factually-inaccurate-india-slams-malaysian-pms-remarks-on-caa-269407">Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA&nbsp;</a>

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read.

New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act.

India, Malaysia ties are likely to take a hit with New Delhi deciding to put curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia. The move follows Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad's comments on the Citizenship Amendment Act. India will now be urging Indonesia for more oil imports, a move that is likely to spark a price war between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta. India's curb on palm oil imports will also result in a loss of market share for Malaysia. Last month, as per reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity". Also read: CAA fallout: Member of Malaysian central government coalition says PM Mahathir has overreacted New Delhi reacted to Mohamed's comments with the Ministry of External Affairs issuing a statement on the same. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen. Read more: Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read. New Delhi also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

India puts curbs on palm oil imports from Malaysia following PM Mahathir Mohamad's CAA remark

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-puts-curbs-on-palm-oil-imports-from-malaysia-following-pm-mahathir-mohamad-caa-remark-273134">India's restrictions on imports of refined palm oil</a> will lead to a loss of market share for Malaysia and spark a price war with rival suppliers, Indonesia, a Malaysian industry association said on Thursday.

India, the world's biggest edible oil buyer, issued a notification on Wednesday amending imports of refined palm oil to "restricted", a move that industry sources said amounted to an effective ban.

The move was seen as punishing Malaysia, India's main supplier of refined palm oil, for criticism of its policies by Mahathir Mohamad, the 94-year-old outspoken prime minister of Muslim-majority Malaysia. Indonesia is the world's biggest exporter of crude palm oil.

The Palm Oil Refiners Association of Malaysia (PORAM) said the move meant Malaysia would now have to compete on crude palm sales to India, where Indonesia has traditionally been more cost-competitive.

"This puts Indonesia and Malaysia at loggerheads. There will be a price war between Indonesia and Malaysia, and we are at the losing end," said PORAM Chairman Jamil Haron told Reuters.

"We can still sell crude palm oil, but now we need to compete with Indonesia."

Haron said the restrictions on refined palm oil could be in the form of quotas and more regulations.

Malaysia last year overtook Indonesia as India's biggest <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-cuts-tax-on-crude-refined-palm-oil-imports-from-asean-countries-187685">palm oil</a> supplier after it won a lower duty for refined palm oil imports.

The Southeast Asian neighbours account for 85 per cent&nbsp;of global palm oil production. Palm oil is Malaysia's biggest agricultural export, accounting for 2.8 per cent&nbsp;of its gross domestic product and 4.5 per cent&nbsp;of total exports.

A Kuala Lumpur-based trader, who did not want to be named citing company policy, said Malaysia's exports would start falling from end-January after current contracts end.

Malaysia exported an estimated 3.9 million tonnes of palm oil to India in 2019. Of this 2.04 million tonnes was palm olein which is used as a cooking agent, according to Refinitiv data.

PORAM members include top industry players including Sime Darby Plantation, Cargill Palm Products, FGV Refineries, IOI Edible Oils, and Wilmar Edible Oils.

Malaysian Palm Oil Association Chief Executive Nageeb Wahab said the curbs on refined palm oil exports would benefit Indian refiners.

Mahathir said in October India "invaded and occupied" Kashmir, a disputed mainly Muslim region also claimed by Pakistan. Last month, he said India was stoking unrest with its new religion-based citizenship law that excludes Muslims.

India's restrictions on imports of refined palm oil will lead to a loss of market share for Malaysia and spark a price war with rival suppliers, Indonesia, a Malaysian industry association said on Thursday.

India's restrictions on imports of refined palm oil will lead to a loss of market share for Malaysia and spark a price war with rival suppliers, Indonesia, a Malaysian industry association said on Thursday. India, the world's biggest edible oil buyer, issued a notification on Wednesday amending imports of refined palm oil to "restricted", a move that industry sources said amounted to an effective ban. The move was seen as punishing Malaysia, India's main supplier of refined palm oil, for criticism of its policies by Mahathir Mohamad, the 94-year-old outspoken prime minister of Muslim-majority Malaysia. Indonesia is the world's biggest exporter of crude palm oil. The Palm Oil Refiners Association of Malaysia (PORAM) said the move meant Malaysia would now have to compete on crude palm sales to India, where Indonesia has traditionally been more cost-competitive. "This puts Indonesia and Malaysia at loggerheads. There will be a price war between Indonesia and Malaysia, and we are at the losing end," said PORAM Chairman Jamil Haron told Reuters. "We can still sell crude palm oil, but now we need to compete with Indonesia." Haron said the restrictions on refined palm oil could be in the form of quotas and more regulations. Malaysia last year overtook Indonesia as India's biggest palm oil supplier after it won a lower duty for refined palm oil imports. The Southeast Asian neighbours account for 85 per cent of global palm oil production. Palm oil is Malaysia's biggest agricultural export, accounting for 2.8 per cent of its gross domestic product and 4.5 per cent of total exports. A Kuala Lumpur-based trader, who did not want to be named citing company policy, said Malaysia's exports would start falling from end-January after current contracts end. Malaysia exported an estimated 3.9 million tonnes of palm oil to India in 2019. Of this 2.04 million tonnes was palm olein which is used as a cooking agent, according to Refinitiv data. PORAM members include top industry players including Sime Darby Plantation, Cargill Palm Products, FGV Refineries, IOI Edible Oils, and Wilmar Edible Oils. Malaysian Palm Oil Association Chief Executive Nageeb Wahab said the curbs on refined palm oil exports would benefit Indian refiners. Mahathir said in October India "invaded and occupied" Kashmir, a disputed mainly Muslim region also claimed by Pakistan. Last month, he said India was stoking unrest with its new religion-based citizenship law that excludes Muslims.

India palm import curbs to start Malaysia, Indonesia price war: Report

Oil prices jumped to their highest in months on Wednesday after Iran attacked American forces in Iraq in response to a US&nbsp;strike that killed an Iranian general last week, raising the spectre of a spiralling conflict and disrupted oil supplies.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran fires missiles at US bases in Iraq</a>

Brent crude futures soared $1.83, or 2.7%, to $70.10 by around 0148 GMT, after earlier rising to $71.75, the highest since mid-September 2019.

West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed nearly $2, or almost 3%, to $64.30 a barrel. It earlier reached a high of $65.85, the most since late April last year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/soleimanis-killing-how-was-the-operation-carried-out-and-what-are-the-consequences-272077">In Pics: How was the operation to kill Soleimani was carried out and what are the consequences?</a>

Iran's missile attack on US-led forces in Iraq came in the early hours of Wednesday, hours after the funeral of Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the country's elite Quds Force killed in a US&nbsp;drone stroke on January&nbsp;3.

Tehran fired more than a dozen ballistic missiles from Iranian territory against at least two Iraqi military bases hosting US-led coalition personnel, the US&nbsp;military said on Tuesday.

"The obvious concern for markets, is where does this all end?", ING Research analysts said in a note.

"The worry is that we could see more from Iran, provoking US&nbsp;retaliation - a scenario that cannot be ruled out given the warnings from President (Donald) Trump," it said.

Iranian news agency Mehr said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had targeted the base. Tehran has vowed retaliation for the killing of military commander Soleimani.

Sirens were heard and American helicopters were seen flying over Iraq's Ain al-Asad air base in Anbar province early on Wednesday, according to Iraqi broadcaster al Mayadeen.

"We are working on initial battle damage assessments," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in statement, adding that the bases targeted were at Al-Asad air base and another in Erbil, Iraq.

Oil prices jumped to their highest in months on Wednesday after Iran attacked American forces in Iraq in response to a US strike that killed an Iranian general last week, raising the spectre of a spiralling conflict and disrupted oil supplies.

Oil prices jumped to their highest in months on Wednesday after Iran attacked American forces in Iraq in response to a US strike that killed an Iranian general last week, raising the spectre of a spiralling conflict and disrupted oil supplies. Also Read: Iran fires missiles at US bases in Iraq Brent crude futures soared $1.83, or 2.7%, to $70.10 by around 0148 GMT, after earlier rising to $71.75, the highest since mid-September 2019. West Texas Intermediate crude futures climbed nearly $2, or almost 3%, to $64.30 a barrel. It earlier reached a high of $65.85, the most since late April last year. In Pics: How was the operation to kill Soleimani was carried out and what are the consequences? Iran's missile attack on US-led forces in Iraq came in the early hours of Wednesday, hours after the funeral of Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the country's elite Quds Force killed in a US drone stroke on January 3. Tehran fired more than a dozen ballistic missiles from Iranian territory against at least two Iraqi military bases hosting US-led coalition personnel, the US military said on Tuesday. "The obvious concern for markets, is where does this all end?", ING Research analysts said in a note. "The worry is that we could see more from Iran, provoking US retaliation - a scenario that cannot be ruled out given the warnings from President (Donald) Trump," it said. Iranian news agency Mehr said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had targeted the base. Tehran has vowed retaliation for the killing of military commander Soleimani. Sirens were heard and American helicopters were seen flying over Iraq's Ain al-Asad air base in Anbar province early on Wednesday, according to Iraqi broadcaster al Mayadeen. "We are working on initial battle damage assessments," Pentagon spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in statement, adding that the bases targeted were at Al-Asad air base and another in Erbil, Iraq.

Oil prices surge to new high after Iran attacks US bases in Iraq

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-crashes-by-788-points-on-us-iran-tensions-banks-and-auto-companies-bleed-272541">Indian stocks</a> sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday.

The rupee was weaker by 0.27 per cent at 71.9900 against the dollar after hitting its lowest since November&nbsp;14.

Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">Iran fires 'more than a dozen' ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq</a>

Oil refiner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-to-offload-bharat-petroleum-in-state-stake-sell-off-263518">Bharat Petroleum</a> Corp Ltd was the top decliner on the Nifty, falling 2.2 per cent amid the rise in crude, which could hurt margins at refining companies.

Other Asian shares and US&nbsp;Treasury yields also tumbled while gold shot higher.

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/amid-escalating-tensions-in-west-asia-indian-stock-markets-close-in-the-red-272641">Amid escalating tensions in West Asia Indian stock markets close in the red</a>

India imports much of its crude from the Middle East, and its markets are sensitive to swings in prices, which have dipped this week on fears of a disruption to oil supplies.

"For the time being, the biggest risk factor for the Indian economy is the possible closure of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-makes-strait-of-hormuz-worlds-most-important-oil-artery-227135">Strait of Hormuz</a> - where almost half of the global oil supplies pass through," said Arnob Biswas, head of FX Research at SMC Global Securities in New Delhi.

"Higher oil prices may lead to headline CPI beyond 6.00 per cent in the coming months," he added in reference to the consumer price index.

Brent crude futures were up 95 cents at $69.22 a barrel, after earlier rising to $71.75, their highest since mid-September 2019.

In India, the NSE Nifty 50 index-tracking blue-chip equities were down 0.86 per cent at 11,948.85 by 0350 GMT, while the benchmark S&amp;P BSE Sensex slid 0.75 per cent to 40,564.72. The two indexes plunged nearly 2% on Monday after a spike in crude prices, and the Nifty saw its worst one-day drop in some four months.

Growth in Asia's third-largest economy has already slowed to multi-year lows, and on Tuesday, India forecast 5 per cent growth for the current financial year, the slowest pace in 11 years.

The projections will likely prompt finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to opt for extra fiscal stimulus when she presents the annual budget next month.

Indian stocks sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday. The rupee was weaker by 0.

Indian stocks sank and the rupee weakened on Wednesday, as Iran struck US bases in Iraq. Shares tanked over 240 points in early trade on Wednesday. The rupee was weaker by 0.27 per cent at 71.9900 against the dollar after hitting its lowest since November 14. Read: Iran fires 'more than a dozen' ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq Oil refiner Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd was the top decliner on the Nifty, falling 2.2 per cent amid the rise in crude, which could hurt margins at refining companies. Other Asian shares and US Treasury yields also tumbled while gold shot higher. Watch: Amid escalating tensions in West Asia Indian stock markets close in the red India imports much of its crude from the Middle East, and its markets are sensitive to swings in prices, which have dipped this week on fears of a disruption to oil supplies. "For the time being, the biggest risk factor for the Indian economy is the possible closure of Strait of Hormuz - where almost half of the global oil supplies pass through," said Arnob Biswas, head of FX Research at SMC Global Securities in New Delhi. "Higher oil prices may lead to headline CPI beyond 6.00 per cent in the coming months," he added in reference to the consumer price index. Brent crude futures were up 95 cents at $69.22 a barrel, after earlier rising to $71.75, their highest since mid-September 2019. In India, the NSE Nifty 50 index-tracking blue-chip equities were down 0.86 per cent at 11,948.85 by 0350 GMT, while the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex slid 0.75 per cent to 40,564.72. The two indexes plunged nearly 2% on Monday after a spike in crude prices, and the Nifty saw its worst one-day drop in some four months. Growth in Asia's third-largest economy has already slowed to multi-year lows, and on Tuesday, India forecast 5 per cent growth for the current financial year, the slowest pace in 11 years. The projections will likely prompt finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to opt for extra fiscal stimulus when she presents the annual budget next month.

Nifty, Sensex dive as crude jumps after Iran missile strike on US bases in Iraq

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-biggest-trade-deal-to-be-delayed-to-2020-draft-asean-statement-259667">America's trade deficit</a> continued to tumble in November, hitting its lowest level in three years as imports of crude oil, computers and industrial supplies fell off sharply, the government reported Tuesday.

That put the United States on track for the first drop in the annual deficit in six years, likely reflecting the damage to international commerce from the US-China trade conflict and a sluggish global economy.

Lowering the deficit has been a chief goal of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-is-well-so-far-so-good-says-trump-after-irans-missile-strikes-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272818">President Donald Trump</a>'s aggressive trade policy but whether the decline will be sustained remains in question.

The drop should help lift GDP growth for the final months of 2019 but falling imports are not necessarily a good sign, as it can be a sign of a weakening domestic economy.

The trade gap - the difference between what the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-criticises-russia-china-at-un-over-failure-to-condemn-baghdad-embassy-attack-272600">United States</a> buys from and sells to international trading partners -&nbsp;fell 8.2 per cent in November to $43.1 billion, even lower than economists had expected and the lowest since October 2016, according to the Commerce Department data.

Imports fell 1.7 per cent to $251.7 billion for the month, the lowest level in more than two years, as Americans purchased fewer mobile phones, artwork, civilian aircraft, and computers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-surge-to-new-high-after-iran-attacks-us-bases-in-iraq-272812">Crude oil</a> imports, adjusted for inflation and seasonal changes, were the lowest since records began in 1994, reflecting increased domestic supply, as America transformed in recent years to become the world's largest producer.

Autos and parts bucked the trend, with imports rising $1.1 billion.

Exports rose but not enough to compensate for the drop in imports, rising 0.7 per cent to $208.6 billion, as Americans shipped out more drilling and oilfield equipment, jewellery and gems, autos and aircraft engines.

Imports to rebound?

Even that modest gain put exports at a new record.

But imports of services, an area where the United States typically enjoys an advantage over foreign competitors, also hit the highest level ever.

Ian Shepherdson of Pantheon Macroeconomics said the plunge in the US deficit was not sustainable, particularly because US demand is much stronger than the import figures suggest.

"This can't last; we expect a rebound over the next few months, likely starting in February," he said in an analysis.

Some tariff rates on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-vote-in-shadow-of-china-pressure-hong-kong-protests-272816">Chinese</a> goods are due to fall that month as part of the partial deal announced in December between the United States and China.

Trump announced that Washington and Beijing are due to sign a partial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-farmers-see-another-bleak-year-despite-phase-1-trade-deal-271864">agreement</a> in Washington next week, halting the escalation in their trade conflict of nearly two years.

But many of the trade barriers remain, including retaliatory tariffs on some US goods.

Despite the November increase, &nbsp;Shepherdson said US exports are "struggling," Shepherdson said. He noted that excluding oil and aircraft, foreign goods sales had actually fallen sharply, which was in line with survey data pointing to continued declines.

The US trade deficit has not decreased on a full-year basis since 2013, but over the first 11 months of 2019, it dropped 0.7 per cent compared to the same period in the prior year.

Economists say falling imports could partly reflect the steep tariffs Trump imposed earlier this year on Chinese imports, even though last month he cancelled plans for what threatened to be the most painful round of duty increases yet.

Watch: Trump says 'all is well' after Iran's missile attack

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In November, the goods trade deficit with China fell 7.8 per cent compared to October, and it is down 16 per cent since the start of the year.

With Mexico, however, the goods deficit continued to rise, growing 8.7 per cent compared to October, marking a year-to-date increase of nearly 28 per cent.

Trump likens the trade deficit to stealing from America, but economists do not share this view, saying the United States does not produce enough domestically to meet its own needs.

America's trade deficit continued to tumble in November, hitting its lowest level in three years as imports of crude oil, computers and industrial supplies fell off sharply, the government reported Tuesday.

America's trade deficit continued to tumble in November, hitting its lowest level in three years as imports of crude oil, computers and industrial supplies fell off sharply, the government reported Tuesday. That put the United States on track for the first drop in the annual deficit in six years, likely reflecting the damage to international commerce from the US-China trade conflict and a sluggish global economy. Lowering the deficit has been a chief goal of President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policy but whether the decline will be sustained remains in question. The drop should help lift GDP growth for the final months of 2019 but falling imports are not necessarily a good sign, as it can be a sign of a weakening domestic economy. The trade gap - the difference between what the United States buys from and sells to international trading partners - fell 8.2 per cent in November to $43.1 billion, even lower than economists had expected and the lowest since October 2016, according to the Commerce Department data. Imports fell 1.7 per cent to $251.7 billion for the month, the lowest level in more than two years, as Americans purchased fewer mobile phones, artwork, civilian aircraft, and computers. Crude oil imports, adjusted for inflation and seasonal changes, were the lowest since records began in 1994, reflecting increased domestic supply, as America transformed in recent years to become the world's largest producer. Autos and parts bucked the trend, with imports rising $1.1 billion. Exports rose but not enough to compensate for the drop in imports, rising 0.7 per cent to $208.6 billion, as Americans shipped out more drilling and oilfield equipment, jewellery and gems, autos and aircraft engines. Imports to rebound? Even that modest gain put exports at a new record. But imports of services, an area where the United States typically enjoys an advantage over foreign competitors, also hit the highest level ever. Ian Shepherdson of Pantheon Macroeconomics said the plunge in the US deficit was not sustainable, particularly because US demand is much stronger than the import figures suggest. "This can't last; we expect a rebound over the next few months, likely starting in February," he said in an analysis. Some tariff rates on Chinese goods are due to fall that month as part of the partial deal announced in December between the United States and China. Trump announced that Washington and Beijing are due to sign a partial agreement in Washington next week, halting the escalation in their trade conflict of nearly two years. But many of the trade barriers remain, including retaliatory tariffs on some US goods. Despite the November increase, Shepherdson said US exports are "struggling," Shepherdson said. He noted that excluding oil and aircraft, foreign goods sales had actually fallen sharply, which was in line with survey data pointing to continued declines. The US trade deficit has not decreased on a full-year basis since 2013, but over the first 11 months of 2019, it dropped 0.7 per cent compared to the same period in the prior year. Economists say falling imports could partly reflect the steep tariffs Trump imposed earlier this year on Chinese imports, even though last month he cancelled plans for what threatened to be the most painful round of duty increases yet. Watch: Trump says 'all is well' after Iran's missile attack × In November, the goods trade deficit with China fell 7.8 per cent compared to October, and it is down 16 per cent since the start of the year. With Mexico, however, the goods deficit continued to rise, growing 8.7 per cent compared to October, marking a year-to-date increase of nearly 28 per cent. Trump likens the trade deficit to stealing from America, but economists do not share this view, saying the United States does not produce enough domestically to meet its own needs.

Plunging US imports push trade deficit to 3-year low in November

India plans to amend proposed rules for policing digital content so the toughest measures apply only to big social media firms, according to two government sources, in a move that could give relief to other tech players fearful of the new regulations.

India plans to amend proposed rules for policing digital content so the toughest measures apply only to big social media firms, according to two government sources, in a move that could give relief to other tech players fearful of the new regulations. The original proposal would have forced all tech players, in addition to Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp, to deploy automated tools to check for unlawful content and to appoint an officer for "24x7" coordination with law enforcement. The rules are part of India's broader efforts to tackle disinformation and "fake news". Since 2017, rumour-mongering on social media has been blamed for mob attacks that killed 30 people across the country. But the draft proposals, called "intermediary guidelines" when they were released in December 2018, could have applied to a broad range of technology firms including e-commerce players, cloud storage providers and telecoms companies. India's IT ministry is now considering a two-tier system - with stricter rules similar to the original proposals applying only to social media companies, said the two government sources, who declined to be named as the plans are still private. "The problem is largely with large messaging platforms, ones that enable interaction. Some of the requirements for non-social media companies were unrealistic," one of the officials said. India's IT ministry did not respond to a request for comment. The second government source said that having two separate layers of rules would mean that big social media companies such as Facebook, WhatsApp and Chinese video app TikTok would continue to face stricter regulation, but technology firms such as Amazon.com could breathe easier. The official described the proposed regulation for other technology companies as "minimal" and "simple", adding the rules would be finalised later this month. India's IT ministry has previously said stricter regulations were necessary to safeguard users and the nation's security as the Internet has emerged as a "potent tool to cause unimaginable disruption to the democratic polity". The original draft rules also said companies must "remove or disable access" to "unlawful" content within 24 hours when asked by a government agency or through a court order. That particular requirement, however, would likely stay in the new rules for both social media and other technology firms, the sources said. Global internet companies Mozilla Corp, Microsoft's GitHub and Cloudflare Inc this week wrote an open letter to India's IT minister, saying the draft 2018 regulations were extremely broad and would impact many companies. Calling for new rules to be made public soon, the companies also said the timeline of 24 hours for removing content posed significant implementation challenges.

India to tweak proposed content regulations to ease burden on some: Sources

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday gave in-principle approval for strategic disinvestment in Minerals &amp; Metals Trading Corporation Ltd (MMTC), National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), Metallurgical and Engineering Consultants (MECON) and two Odisha state government public sector undertakings.

The government will offload 49.78 per cent equity shareholding in MMTC, 10.1 per cent in NMDC besides 0.68 per cent in MECON and BHEL each to a strategic buyer after a two-stage auction procedure.

Besides, it will sell 12 per cent stake in Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Ltd (IPICOL) and 20.47 per cent in Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) in Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited (NINL).NINL is a joint venture company in which four central public sector enterprises -- MMTC, NMDC, BHEL and MECON -- besides two state PSUs of the Odisha state government -- IPICOL and OMC -- are shareholders.

"The proposed strategic disinvestment of NINL will unlock resources to be used to finance the social sector and developmental programmes of the government benefiting the public," according to an official statement.

"It is also expected that the successful strategic buyer may bring in new management and technology and investment for the growth of company, and may use innovative methods for the development of business operations which may generate more employment opportunities," said the statement further.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday gave in-principle approval for strategic disinvestment in Minerals & Metals Trading Corporation Ltd (MMTC), National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), Metallurgical and Engineering Consultants (MECON) and two Odisha state government public sector undertakings.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday gave in-principle approval for strategic disinvestment in Minerals & Metals Trading Corporation Ltd (MMTC), National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC), Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), Metallurgical and Engineering Consultants (MECON) and two Odisha state government public sector undertakings. The government will offload 49.78 per cent equity shareholding in MMTC, 10.1 per cent in NMDC besides 0.68 per cent in MECON and BHEL each to a strategic buyer after a two-stage auction procedure. Besides, it will sell 12 per cent stake in Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha Ltd (IPICOL) and 20.47 per cent in Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) in Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited (NINL).NINL is a joint venture company in which four central public sector enterprises -- MMTC, NMDC, BHEL and MECON -- besides two state PSUs of the Odisha state government -- IPICOL and OMC -- are shareholders. "The proposed strategic disinvestment of NINL will unlock resources to be used to finance the social sector and developmental programmes of the government benefiting the public," according to an official statement. "It is also expected that the successful strategic buyer may bring in new management and technology and investment for the growth of company, and may use innovative methods for the development of business operations which may generate more employment opportunities," said the statement further.

Cabinet approves strategic disinvestment in MMTC, NMDC, BHEL and others

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-delivers-first-batch-of-china-made-cars-271122">Elon Musk</a> showed off striptease moves at the launch of Tesla's&nbsp;Model Y electric sports utility vehicle programme at its new Shanghai factory on Tuesday, where the company delivered its first cars built outside the United States to the public.

The $2 billion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/rivals-gear-up-for-2020-after-teslas-model-3-sedan-hits-record-year-in-norway-271896">Tesla Inc</a> factory started delivering cars in just 357 days, a record for global automakers in China. The first 10 customers from the public received their China-made <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-says-will-start-delivering-china-made-model-3s-to-public-on-january-7-271722">Model 3 sedans</a> on Tuesday.

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At Tesla Giga Shanghai NSFW!! <a href="https://t.co/1yrPyzJQGZ">pic.twitter.com/1yrPyzJQGZ</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1214483582363693057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Billionaire CEO Musk danced enthusiastically on stage at the event, then stripped off his jacket and flung it aside to reveal a T-shirt with a cartoon of the factory. In a tweet, he labelled the video "NSFW" - not safe for work.

He predicted that "ultimately Tesla Model Y will have more demand than probably all the other cars of Tesla combined", with his voice cracking with emotion at times while talking about the progress of the Shanghai factory.

<img alt="Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk dances onstage during a delivery event" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c97caf56-b0d0-407e-b077-89fd4f0ab29e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%288%29_7.jpg" /> 
[Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk dances onstage during a delivery event (Courtesy: Reuters)]

The ceremony was attended by Shanghai Mayor Ying Yong and other senior government officials.

Tesla executives, however, did not provide further details on the progress of the China-made Model Y project. A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-delivers-first-batch-of-china-made-cars-271122">Tesla</a> representative declined to comment further.

Tesla's shares are trading close to their record high after it beat Wall Street estimates for vehicle deliveries in its fourth quarter. News of production ramp-up in its China factory and upbeat early deposits for its recently launched pickup truck have also supported its share price.

<img alt="Tesla Model 3 vehicles are seen during a delivery event at its factory in Shanghai" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a257650-0a94-478e-b6a0-028c2f3645f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%289%29_11.jpg" /> 
[Tesla Model 3 vehicles are seen during a delivery event at its factory in Shanghai (Courtesy: Reuters)]

Construction of Tesla's first plant outside the United States began in January and production started in October.

The factory started with a production capacity of 150,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-to-take-new-14-billion-loan-from-chinese-banks-for-shanghai-factory-sources-269723">Model 3 sedans</a> and Tesla aims to push that to 250,000 vehicles a year, including Model Y, in the plant's first phase.

Tesla unveiled its Model Y in March 2019 and said in October that production of the electric compact SUV at its Fremont facility was running ahead of schedule, adding at the time that it expects to launch the model by summer 2020.

<img alt="A Tesla Model 3 car owner sitting inside a car" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3a903dc-3ca8-4def-aa8d-60ed9ca001bc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%287%29_10.jpg" /> 
[A Tesla Model 3 car owner sitting inside a car (Courtesy: Reuters)]

It has said that margin expectations are higher for Model Y than Model 3, while production costs are roughly the same.

Tesla's China website estimates the starting price for Model Y vehicles at 444,000 yuan ($63,911.56). It will announce the retail price later, the website says. The China-made Model 3 sedans are priced at 355,800 yuan before subsidies.

Shanghai Vice Mayor Wu Qing said he hoped to see Tesla extend its cooperation with the city and for the car maker to manufacture more models at its Chinese plant.

Elon Musk showed off striptease moves at the launch of Tesla's Model Y electric sports utility vehicle programme at its new Shanghai factory on Tuesday, where the company delivered its first cars built outside the United States to the public.

Elon Musk showed off striptease moves at the launch of Tesla's Model Y electric sports utility vehicle programme at its new Shanghai factory on Tuesday, where the company delivered its first cars built outside the United States to the public. The $2 billion Tesla Inc factory started delivering cars in just 357 days, a record for global automakers in China. The first 10 customers from the public received their China-made Model 3 sedans on Tuesday. At Tesla Giga Shanghai NSFW!! pic.twitter.com/1yrPyzJQGZ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 7, 2020 × Billionaire CEO Musk danced enthusiastically on stage at the event, then stripped off his jacket and flung it aside to reveal a T-shirt with a cartoon of the factory. In a tweet, he labelled the video "NSFW" - not safe for work. He predicted that "ultimately Tesla Model Y will have more demand than probably all the other cars of Tesla combined", with his voice cracking with emotion at times while talking about the progress of the Shanghai factory. [Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk dances onstage during a delivery event (Courtesy: Reuters)] The ceremony was attended by Shanghai Mayor Ying Yong and other senior government officials. Tesla executives, however, did not provide further details on the progress of the China-made Model Y project. A Tesla representative declined to comment further. Tesla's shares are trading close to their record high after it beat Wall Street estimates for vehicle deliveries in its fourth quarter. News of production ramp-up in its China factory and upbeat early deposits for its recently launched pickup truck have also supported its share price. [Tesla Model 3 vehicles are seen during a delivery event at its factory in Shanghai (Courtesy: Reuters)] Construction of Tesla's first plant outside the United States began in January and production started in October. The factory started with a production capacity of 150,000 Model 3 sedans and Tesla aims to push that to 250,000 vehicles a year, including Model Y, in the plant's first phase. Tesla unveiled its Model Y in March 2019 and said in October that production of the electric compact SUV at its Fremont facility was running ahead of schedule, adding at the time that it expects to launch the model by summer 2020. [A Tesla Model 3 car owner sitting inside a car (Courtesy: Reuters)] It has said that margin expectations are higher for Model Y than Model 3, while production costs are roughly the same. Tesla's China website estimates the starting price for Model Y vehicles at 444,000 yuan ($63,911.56). It will announce the retail price later, the website says. The China-made Model 3 sedans are priced at 355,800 yuan before subsidies. Shanghai Vice Mayor Wu Qing said he hoped to see Tesla extend its cooperation with the city and for the car maker to manufacture more models at its Chinese plant.

Elon Musk launches new Tesla SUV programme at Shanghai factory

Revenue Secretary Ajay Bhushan Pandey held a day-long brainstorming session on Tuesday with commissioners of state and central taxes to discuss how the Goods and Service Tax (GST) system can be streamlined for faster refunds, enhanced compliance and discourage tax evaders.

Revenue Secretary Ajay Bhushan Pandey held a day-long brainstorming session on Tuesday with commissioners of state and central taxes to discuss how the Goods and Service Tax (GST) system can be streamlined for faster refunds, enhanced compliance and discourage tax evaders. Officials debated on ways to curb fraud and evasion, check fake or huge input tax credit claims and seek bank account details of businesses to tally with their filings. They discussed methods to curb misuse of refunds and share the best practices in revenue augmentation. The discussions focussed on a road ahead for e-invoicing, new return system and feedback, e-way bill linking with Fastag, pendency of refunds, linkage of Aadhaar to GST registration, enforcement module use without overreach and QR codes. This was the second all-India conference where both tax administrations came together formally to build synergy and to share their knowledge with the intent to bring about uniformity in tax administrations. The meet deliberated on a mechanism and machinery for disseminating inter-departmental data among various agencies. It was attended by senior officers of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, the Central Board of Direct Taxes, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), the Directorate General of Analytics and Risk Management (DGARM), GSTN officials and field officers from enforcement wings. An official statement said all major cases of fake input tax credit, export or import fraud and fraudulent refunds will now be investigated by the Income Tax Department.

Officials discuss ways to streamline GST system, curb evasion

The end of one year of technology means looking forward to the next and better one. The year 2020 has brought another year filled with amazing game-changing technology trends.

Here is the list of upcoming technologies that could change the game in 2020.

Foldable phones

We now have phones that come with foldable screens. Last year, a handful of companies teased us with their models. In 2020, the trend is expected to grow manifold. More companies are expected to design phones with screens that can fold. So new warriors such as Xiaomi and Oppo will march into the battleground with their foldable designs. And existing players will improve their products. If all goes as expected, 2020 could truly be the year of foldable phones. 
&nbsp; 
5G is coming to India! 
&nbsp; 
Next-gen 5G technology has been a talking point for years. But it was only in 2019, that the world finally witnessed the launch of 5G phones, that too only in a handful of countries. But in 2020, 5G will be the catalyst to a digital revolution in more countries, including India. Indian telecoms have been conducting 5G tests and are implementing 5G-ready equipment, so it's quite plausible that 5G will finally take off in the country this year. And we'll get to enjoy the benefits of even faster internet speeds! 
&nbsp; 
The rise of video streaming 
&nbsp; 
Over the last 12 months, there has been a significant rise in the consumption of media on video streaming platforms. Many people now avoid going to cinema halls and wait for the movies to stream on OTT platforms. Companies are creating content exclusively for video-on-demand services, which are popular within all age groups. And this trend will be seen in 2020, OTT services will continue to adversely impact the business of cinema. 
&nbsp; 
Voice assistants - What's next? 
&nbsp; 
Voice assistants have been around for a few years now. Every year, they get better and are packed with new functionalities. Today, services like Alexa and Google Assistant can do a lot of things, answer our queries and make suggestions based on our schedules. But as anyone who uses a voice assistant knows, there's a huge scope for improvement. In 2020, voice recognition software will improve, so it will get better at understanding different accents. Artificial intelligence technology behind voice applications will continue to be a focus area in the space of technology.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;Connected retail 
&nbsp; 
Tech companies are working on making our shopping experience better.&nbsp;We have seen connected shopping devices in India and other countries.&nbsp;Amazon has set up a checkout-free grocery store. Facial recognition is improving payment systems. But all of these services are yet to go mainstream.&nbsp;

Price of privacy

After a series of data leaks at facebook and hacking attempts on apps like WhatsApp in 2019, there are increasing fears about privacy. &nbsp;But at the same time, many of us are knowingly trading our privacy for convenience.&nbsp;

For instance, users are granting app permissions without even giving it a second thought.&nbsp;

Devices like smart speakers, that have been accused of eavesdropping, are still flying off the shelves. And how many of us have stopped using Facebook despite knowing that it's in the middle of multiple data privacy rows?

We do think that these tech giants will continue profiting from invading our privacy, so let's hope we see better consumer protection and privacy laws in 2020. 
&nbsp;

The end of one year of technology means looking forward to the next and better one. The year 2020 has brought another year filled with amazing game-changing technology trends.

The end of one year of technology means looking forward to the next and better one. The year 2020 has brought another year filled with amazing game-changing technology trends. Here is the list of upcoming technologies that could change the game in 2020. Foldable phones We now have phones that come with foldable screens. Last year, a handful of companies teased us with their models. In 2020, the trend is expected to grow manifold. More companies are expected to design phones with screens that can fold. So new warriors such as Xiaomi and Oppo will march into the battleground with their foldable designs. And existing players will improve their products. If all goes as expected, 2020 could truly be the year of foldable phones. 5G is coming to India! Next-gen 5G technology has been a talking point for years. But it was only in 2019, that the world finally witnessed the launch of 5G phones, that too only in a handful of countries. But in 2020, 5G will be the catalyst to a digital revolution in more countries, including India. Indian telecoms have been conducting 5G tests and are implementing 5G-ready equipment, so it's quite plausible that 5G will finally take off in the country this year. And we'll get to enjoy the benefits of even faster internet speeds! The rise of video streaming Over the last 12 months, there has been a significant rise in the consumption of media on video streaming platforms. Many people now avoid going to cinema halls and wait for the movies to stream on OTT platforms. Companies are creating content exclusively for video-on-demand services, which are popular within all age groups. And this trend will be seen in 2020, OTT services will continue to adversely impact the business of cinema. Voice assistants - What's next? Voice assistants have been around for a few years now. Every year, they get better and are packed with new functionalities. Today, services like Alexa and Google Assistant can do a lot of things, answer our queries and make suggestions based on our schedules. But as anyone who uses a voice assistant knows, there's a huge scope for improvement. In 2020, voice recognition software will improve, so it will get better at understanding different accents. Artificial intelligence technology behind voice applications will continue to be a focus area in the space of technology. Connected retail Tech companies are working on making our shopping experience better. We have seen connected shopping devices in India and other countries. Amazon has set up a checkout-free grocery store. Facial recognition is improving payment systems. But all of these services are yet to go mainstream. Price of privacy After a series of data leaks at facebook and hacking attempts on apps like WhatsApp in 2019, there are increasing fears about privacy. But at the same time, many of us are knowingly trading our privacy for convenience. For instance, users are granting app permissions without even giving it a second thought. Devices like smart speakers, that have been accused of eavesdropping, are still flying off the shelves. And how many of us have stopped using Facebook despite knowing that it's in the middle of multiple data privacy rows? We do think that these tech giants will continue profiting from invading our privacy, so let's hope we see better consumer protection and privacy laws in 2020.

Technology trends of 2020: What to expect?

The Indian government said on Tuesday it expects the economy to grow at 5.0% in the fiscal year ending in March, lower than 6.8 % recorded a year earlier. Most private economists have lowered India's growth forecast to around 5% for the 2019/20 fiscal year, after the central bank cut its growth estimate to 5.

The Indian government said on Tuesday it expects the economy to grow at 5.0% in the fiscal year ending in March, lower than 6.8 % recorded a year earlier. Most private economists have lowered India's growth forecast to around 5% for the 2019/20 fiscal year, after the central bank cut its growth estimate to 5.0% last month, citing weakening demand and a slowdown in global economic activity.

India forecasts 2019/20 GDP growth rate at 5%