National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

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

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

The benchmark Sensex rebounded by 51 points in opening trade today after IT, realty and teck stocks rose on optimistic buying by investors ahead of announcement of quarterly results.

The 30-share index rose by 51.78 points, or 0.15 per cent, at 34,484.85, in opening trade with IT, realty, teck, power and auto leading the recovery by rising up to 0.80 per cent. The gauge had shed 10.12 points in the previous session following profit-booking at record levels.

Also, the NSE Nifty traded higher by 9.05 points, or 0.08 per cent, at 10,641.25 in the opening trade.

Traders said widening of bets by investors ahead of Q3 numbers from IndusInd Bank and TCS, to be released later in the day amid buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) influenced sentiment.

DIIs bought shares to the tune of Rs 600.24 crore, while Foreign institutiional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth Rs 572.26 crore yesterday, as per the provisional data.

Support came from key stocks such as Infosys, ONGC, Tata Motors, Kotak Bank, ITC Ltd, Dr Reddy&#39;s, Maruti Suzuki, HDFC Ltd, Adani Ports, Power Grid, Hindustan Unilever and M&amp;M, rising by up to 1.04 per cent.

On the other hand, trend at other Asan markets was weak in line with overnight losses at the Wall Street. Japan&#39;s Nikkei falling 0.52 per cent while Hong&#39;s Hang Seng shed 0.24 per cent in their early trade.

China&#39;s Shanghai Composite index too was down 0.30 per cent

Wall Street fell for the first time in 2018 with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 0.07 per cent yesterday.

Traders said widening of bets by investors ahead of Q3 numbers from IndusInd Bank and TCS, to be released later in the day amid buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) influenced sentiment.

The benchmark Sensex rebounded by 51 points in opening trade today after IT, realty and teck stocks rose on optimistic buying by investors ahead of announcement of quarterly results. The 30-share index rose by 51.78 points, or 0.15 per cent, at 34,484.85, in opening trade with IT, realty, teck, power and auto leading the recovery by rising up to 0.80 per cent. The gauge had shed 10.12 points in the previous session following profit-booking at record levels. Also, the NSE Nifty traded higher by 9.05 points, or 0.08 per cent, at 10,641.25 in the opening trade. Traders said widening of bets by investors ahead of Q3 numbers from IndusInd Bank and TCS, to be released later in the day amid buying by domestic institutional investors (DIIs) influenced sentiment. DIIs bought shares to the tune of Rs 600.24 crore, while Foreign institutiional investors (FIIs) sold shares worth Rs 572.26 crore yesterday, as per the provisional data. Support came from key stocks such as Infosys, ONGC, Tata Motors, Kotak Bank, ITC Ltd, Dr Reddy's, Maruti Suzuki, HDFC Ltd, Adani Ports, Power Grid, Hindustan Unilever and M&M, rising by up to 1.04 per cent. On the other hand, trend at other Asan markets was weak in line with overnight losses at the Wall Street. Japan's Nikkei falling 0.52 per cent while Hong's Hang Seng shed 0.24 per cent in their early trade. China's Shanghai Composite index too was down 0.30 per cent Wall Street fell for the first time in 2018 with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping 0.07 per cent yesterday.

Sensex regains 51 points in early trade ahead of earnings

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) late on Wednesday barred Price Waterhouse from auditing listed companies in the country for two years, after a probe into a nearly decade-old accounting fraud case in a software services company that became India&#39;s biggest corporate scandal.

Ramalinga Raju, founder and former chairman of the erstwhile software services exporter Satyam Computer Services, stunned Indian markets and investors in January 2009, when he admitted that the firm had overstated earnings and assets for several years, in a fraud of more than $1 billion sometimes referred to as &quot;India&#39;s Enron&quot;.

Price Waterhouse was Satyam&#39;s auditor during the period in which the fraud was perpetrated.

In its order, the SEBI, on Wednesday said any entities or firms practicing as chartered accountants in India under the brand and banner of PW, shall not directly or indirectly issue any certificate of audit of listed companies, or their intermediaries that are registered with the regulator for a period of two years.

&quot;The network structure of operations adopted by the international accounting firm should not be used as a shield to avoid legal implications arising out of the certifications issued under the brand name of the network,&quot; SEBI said in a 108-page order.

In India, all audit functions within the group are conducted under the Price Waterhouse (PW) brand, with a network of local firms operating under the banner. The broader PwC entity handles consulting, tax advisory and other businesses.

&quot;The SEBI order relates to a fraud that took place nearly a decade ago in which we played no part and had no knowledge of,&quot; Price Waterhouse said in a release.

&quot;There has been no intentional wrong doing by PW firms in the unprecedented management perpetrated fraud at Satyam, nor have we seen any material evidence to the contrary,&quot; said Price Waterhouse, adding it was confident of getting a court to stay the order before it becomes effective.

To avoid operational difficulties, SEBI said its order will not impact audit assignments relating to the ongoing 2017-18 financial year, already undertaken by firms forming part of the PW network.

SEBI also ordered Price Waterhouse, Bangalore and two of its erstwhile partners to jointly forfeit &quot;wrongful gains&quot; of about 131 million rupees ($2.06 million) plus interest within 45 days.

Indian IT firm Tech Mahindra, part of the Mahindra Group, bought control of Satyam in an auction in April 2010.

Satyam and PricewaterhouseCoopers agreed in 2011 to pay a combined $17.5 million to settle U.S. probes into the accounting fraud.

In India, all audit functions within the group are conducted under the Price Waterhouse (PW) brand, with a network of local firms operating under the banner.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) late on Wednesday barred Price Waterhouse from auditing listed companies in the country for two years, after a probe into a nearly decade-old accounting fraud case in a software services company that became India's biggest corporate scandal. Ramalinga Raju, founder and former chairman of the erstwhile software services exporter Satyam Computer Services, stunned Indian markets and investors in January 2009, when he admitted that the firm had overstated earnings and assets for several years, in a fraud of more than $1 billion sometimes referred to as "India's Enron". Price Waterhouse was Satyam's auditor during the period in which the fraud was perpetrated. In its order, the SEBI, on Wednesday said any entities or firms practicing as chartered accountants in India under the brand and banner of PW, shall not directly or indirectly issue any certificate of audit of listed companies, or their intermediaries that are registered with the regulator for a period of two years. "The network structure of operations adopted by the international accounting firm should not be used as a shield to avoid legal implications arising out of the certifications issued under the brand name of the network," SEBI said in a 108-page order. In India, all audit functions within the group are conducted under the Price Waterhouse (PW) brand, with a network of local firms operating under the banner. The broader PwC entity handles consulting, tax advisory and other businesses. "The SEBI order relates to a fraud that took place nearly a decade ago in which we played no part and had no knowledge of," Price Waterhouse said in a release. "There has been no intentional wrong doing by PW firms in the unprecedented management perpetrated fraud at Satyam, nor have we seen any material evidence to the contrary," said Price Waterhouse, adding it was confident of getting a court to stay the order before it becomes effective. To avoid operational difficulties, SEBI said its order will not impact audit assignments relating to the ongoing 2017-18 financial year, already undertaken by firms forming part of the PW network. SEBI also ordered Price Waterhouse, Bangalore and two of its erstwhile partners to jointly forfeit "wrongful gains" of about 131 million rupees ($2.06 million) plus interest within 45 days. Indian IT firm Tech Mahindra, part of the Mahindra Group, bought control of Satyam in an auction in April 2010. Satyam and PricewaterhouseCoopers agreed in 2011 to pay a combined $17.5 million to settle U.S. probes into the accounting fraud.

SEBI bars Price Waterhouse from auditing listed firms for two years

Henrik Fisker unveiled his $129,000 electric luxury car Tuesday, in a rebooted effort by the renowned auto designer to take on Tesla and other luxury automakers.&nbsp;

The Fisker EMotion, which made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, is part of a comeback effort for Henrik Fisker, a former BMW and Aston Martin designer whose first venture was halted in 2013 after selling only a few thousand vehicles.&nbsp;

This time, the company Fisker Inc. is pulling out all the stops for the vehicle, designed with butterfly doors and a sleek sportscar look, semi-autonomous driving, and a range of some 400 miles (650 kilometres) on a single charge.&nbsp;

The car, which is still two years from deliveries, &quot;is a new take on the future of a luxury sedan,&quot; Fisker said on the CES show floor.&nbsp;

Fisker said the features such as the extended driving range &quot;will make even people sitting on the fence (about electric cars) look at it.&quot;&nbsp;

The new effort nonetheless faces an uphill battle in an industry where Tesla is showing rapid growth and other rivals from major automakers to start-ups -- including one other making a debut at the tech show -- are producing new electric cars.&nbsp;

Fisker is also working on its own battery technology aimed at improving range and speeding the charging time.&nbsp;

He hopes to have a charging system that can enable an extra 125 miles in nine minutes.&nbsp;

The company is also working on a solid-state battery that Fisker maintained could achieve a full charge in one minute. Like Tesla, Fisker is also working on a more affordable vehicle that would be priced around $40,000 after the Emotion. And it has designed a self-driving shuttle bus called the Orbit that could also launch in the next few years.&nbsp;

Partnering with Fisker is California-based technology firm Quanergy, which is developing the LIDAR used for autonomous driving.&nbsp;

The Emotion uses five LIDAR sensors integrated into the body and &quot;it&#39;s the only LIDAR with no moving parts,&quot; said Quanergy CEO Louay Eldada.&nbsp;

The launch by Fisker&#39;s new company comes after a high-profile bankruptcy by Fisker Automotive.&nbsp;

Before launching his own venture and the Fisker Karma, Fisker designed vehicles including the BMW Z8 and Aston Martin DB89.&nbsp;

Other firms at CES appear to be making a play for Tesla clients with electric vehicles with autonomous capabilities.&nbsp;

China-based start-up Byton announced this week it planned to launch a $45,000 electric car featuring a &quot;digital&quot; lounge with a panoramic display acting as a hub for navigation, entertainment and even monitoring the health of its occupants.&nbsp;

Last year, Chinese-backed Faraday Future unveiled its premium electric vehicle but since then have offered few clues on its availability.&nbsp;

Still, Tesla remains a target for both established automakers and start-ups.&nbsp;

&quot;In my opinion Tesla is vulnerable,&quot; said Jack Gold, an analyst who follows the tech sector and who was attending CES.&nbsp;

In addition to the companies presenting at CES, Gold said, there are a number of other Chinese firms which could use the shift in consumer trends to break into new markets.&nbsp;

&quot;I think it`s a big opening for the Chinese. And the Chinese government is subsidizing them.&quot; &nbsp;

The electronics show is often used to debut new automotive technology even though it takes place just days ahead of the big Detroit auto show.&nbsp;

The launch by Fisker's new company comes after a high-profile bankruptcy by Fisker Automotive

Henrik Fisker unveiled his $129,000 electric luxury car Tuesday, in a rebooted effort by the renowned auto designer to take on Tesla and other luxury automakers. The Fisker EMotion, which made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, is part of a comeback effort for Henrik Fisker, a former BMW and Aston Martin designer whose first venture was halted in 2013 after selling only a few thousand vehicles. This time, the company Fisker Inc. is pulling out all the stops for the vehicle, designed with butterfly doors and a sleek sportscar look, semi-autonomous driving, and a range of some 400 miles (650 kilometres) on a single charge. The car, which is still two years from deliveries, "is a new take on the future of a luxury sedan," Fisker said on the CES show floor. Fisker said the features such as the extended driving range "will make even people sitting on the fence (about electric cars) look at it." The new effort nonetheless faces an uphill battle in an industry where Tesla is showing rapid growth and other rivals from major automakers to start-ups -- including one other making a debut at the tech show -- are producing new electric cars. Fisker is also working on its own battery technology aimed at improving range and speeding the charging time. He hopes to have a charging system that can enable an extra 125 miles in nine minutes. The company is also working on a solid-state battery that Fisker maintained could achieve a full charge in one minute. Like Tesla, Fisker is also working on a more affordable vehicle that would be priced around $40,000 after the Emotion. And it has designed a self-driving shuttle bus called the Orbit that could also launch in the next few years. Partnering with Fisker is California-based technology firm Quanergy, which is developing the LIDAR used for autonomous driving. The Emotion uses five LIDAR sensors integrated into the body and "it's the only LIDAR with no moving parts," said Quanergy CEO Louay Eldada. The launch by Fisker's new company comes after a high-profile bankruptcy by Fisker Automotive. Before launching his own venture and the Fisker Karma, Fisker designed vehicles including the BMW Z8 and Aston Martin DB89. Other firms at CES appear to be making a play for Tesla clients with electric vehicles with autonomous capabilities. China-based start-up Byton announced this week it planned to launch a $45,000 electric car featuring a "digital" lounge with a panoramic display acting as a hub for navigation, entertainment and even monitoring the health of its occupants. Last year, Chinese-backed Faraday Future unveiled its premium electric vehicle but since then have offered few clues on its availability. Still, Tesla remains a target for both established automakers and start-ups. "In my opinion Tesla is vulnerable," said Jack Gold, an analyst who follows the tech sector and who was attending CES. In addition to the companies presenting at CES, Gold said, there are a number of other Chinese firms which could use the shift in consumer trends to break into new markets. "I think it`s a big opening for the Chinese. And the Chinese government is subsidizing them." The electronics show is often used to debut new automotive technology even though it takes place just days ahead of the big Detroit auto show.

With pricey electric car 'EMotion', Fisker eyes comeback

The government on Wednesday allowed 100% FDI in single-brand retail, and allowed foreign airlines to invest up to 49% in Air India.&nbsp;

The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The Cabinet allowed overseas investors to invest 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) in single brand retail, trading and construction development, an official statement said.

&quot;Foreign airlines allowed to invest up to 49 per cent under approval route in Air India,&quot; the statement added.&nbsp;

The 100% FDI in single-brand retail has been allowed under the automatic route, which means government approval will not have to be sought.

The investment in Air India however will require government approval and the government has added further conditions for investment in the government carrier.&nbsp;

Foreign investment in Air India including that of foreign Airline (s) shall not exceed 49 per cent either directly or indirectly and &quot;substantial ownership and effective control of Air India shall continue to be vested in Indian National&quot;, the official statement said.&nbsp;

Foreign airlines had already been allowed to invest up to 49% in Indian airline companies, with the exception of Air India.&nbsp;

&quot;It has now been decided to do away with this restriction and allow foreign airlines to invest up to 49 per cent under approval route in Air India,&quot; the statement said.

The government said its decisions would help with ease of doing business, and lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth, income, and employment.&nbsp;

One of the harshest criticisms of the government by the opposition in recent times has been the lack of jobs.&nbsp;

Traders bodies however have already <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/traders-body-opposes-100-per-cent-fdi-in-single-brand-retail-via-automatic-route-29107" target="_blank">opposed the 100% FDI in retail</a> -- the earlier limit was 49%, with government approval being required for further investment -- saying it violates a BJP poll promise.&nbsp;

The government has also allowed 100% FDI in real-estate broking services, saying they do not amount to the&nbsp;real estate business.

The cabinet has also allowed FIIs/FPIs to invest in power exchanges through the&nbsp;primary market.

So far 49 per cent FDI was permitted under automatic route in power exchanges registered under the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Power Market) Regulations, 2010. However, FII/FPI purchases were restricted to secondary market only.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI) 
&nbsp;

The government said its decisions -- cleared by the cabinet in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Modi -- would provide employment and income

The government on Wednesday allowed 100% FDI in single-brand retail, and allowed foreign airlines to invest up to 49% in Air India. The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Cabinet allowed overseas investors to invest 100 per cent FDI (foreign direct investment) in single brand retail, trading and construction development, an official statement said. "Foreign airlines allowed to invest up to 49 per cent under approval route in Air India," the statement added. The 100% FDI in single-brand retail has been allowed under the automatic route, which means government approval will not have to be sought. The investment in Air India however will require government approval and the government has added further conditions for investment in the government carrier. Foreign investment in Air India including that of foreign Airline (s) shall not exceed 49 per cent either directly or indirectly and "substantial ownership and effective control of Air India shall continue to be vested in Indian National", the official statement said. Foreign airlines had already been allowed to invest up to 49% in Indian airline companies, with the exception of Air India. "It has now been decided to do away with this restriction and allow foreign airlines to invest up to 49 per cent under approval route in Air India," the statement said. The government said its decisions would help with ease of doing business, and lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth, income, and employment. One of the harshest criticisms of the government by the opposition in recent times has been the lack of jobs. Traders bodies however have already opposed the 100% FDI in retail -- the earlier limit was 49%, with government approval being required for further investment -- saying it violates a BJP poll promise. The government has also allowed 100% FDI in real-estate broking services, saying they do not amount to the real estate business. The cabinet has also allowed FIIs/FPIs to invest in power exchanges through the primary market. So far 49 per cent FDI was permitted under automatic route in power exchanges registered under the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Power Market) Regulations, 2010. However, FII/FPI purchases were restricted to secondary market only. (With inputs from PTI)

Government allows 100% FDI in single-brand retail, 49% in Air India

A trade body on Wednesday strongly opposed the Centre&#39;s decision to allow 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/government-allows-100-per-cent-fdi-in-single-brand-retail-via-automatic-route-29097">single brand retail</a> through the automatic route.

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) said the move will facilitate easy entry of MNCs (multi-national companies) in the retail trade.

At present, FDI up to 49 per cent is allowed under automatic route but any investment beyond the limit required government approval.

The approval through automatic route is aimed at further quickening the FDI clearance process and many foreign players may now enter the Indian market this advantage of this.

In a statement here, CAIT, said &quot;100 per cent FDI in single brand retail through the automatic route will facilitate easy entry of MNCs in the retail trade and also violate the poll promise of the BJP.&quot;

Terming it as a &quot;serious matter for small businesses&quot;, the trade body claims the move will hamper the welfare, upgradation and modernisation of existing retail trade.

The trade association said this was a &quot;brutal move&quot; on the part of the government and such a step would render a large number of people jobless.

Earlier, foreign investments above 49 per cent required the government&#39;s approval along with subject to certain condition like mandatory local sourcing from micro and small and medium businesses (MSMEs).

The government, on the other hand, has pushed the proposal with a view to provide an investor-friendly climate to foreign players and in turn attract more FDI to boost economic growth, which it expects will create jobs.

After 100 per cent FDI in single brand retail was allowed in 2014, many global players like Ikea and Nike have entered the Indian market.

The approval through automatic route is aimed at further quickening the FDI clearance process and many foreign players may now enter the Indian market this advantage of this.

A trade body on Wednesday strongly opposed the Centre's decision to allow 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in single brand retail through the automatic route. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) said the move will facilitate easy entry of MNCs (multi-national companies) in the retail trade. At present, FDI up to 49 per cent is allowed under automatic route but any investment beyond the limit required government approval. The approval through automatic route is aimed at further quickening the FDI clearance process and many foreign players may now enter the Indian market this advantage of this. In a statement here, CAIT, said "100 per cent FDI in single brand retail through the automatic route will facilitate easy entry of MNCs in the retail trade and also violate the poll promise of the BJP." Terming it as a "serious matter for small businesses", the trade body claims the move will hamper the welfare, upgradation and modernisation of existing retail trade. The trade association said this was a "brutal move" on the part of the government and such a step would render a large number of people jobless. Earlier, foreign investments above 49 per cent required the government's approval along with subject to certain condition like mandatory local sourcing from micro and small and medium businesses (MSMEs). The government, on the other hand, has pushed the proposal with a view to provide an investor-friendly climate to foreign players and in turn attract more FDI to boost economic growth, which it expects will create jobs. After 100 per cent FDI in single brand retail was allowed in 2014, many global players like Ikea and Nike have entered the Indian market.

Traders' body opposes 100 per cent FDI in single brand retail via automatic route

The Indian cabinet cleared a proposal on Wednesday<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/fdi-in-power-sector-focussed-approach-is-the-key-22476"> allowing 100 percent foreign direct investment</a> (FDI) in single-brand retail via the automatic route, government spokesman Frank Noronha said.

Currently, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-allows-fdi-in-aviation-sector-barring-foreign-airlines-827">government allows just 49 </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-allows-fdi-in-aviation-sector-barring-foreign-airlines-827">per cent</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-allows-fdi-in-aviation-sector-barring-foreign-airlines-827"> </a>under the automatic route.

The UPA government had earlier allowed 51% FDI in multi-brand retail in 2012 but stepped back after protests from the Opposition. After PM Modi came to power his government had put the policy on hold.

In July 2015, the cabinet had allowed all companies to raise foreign portfolio investment up to 49 per cent through the automatic route.

In June 2016, the NDA government had allowed 100 per cent FDI in food retail.

The government said that the decision would help provide ease of doing business and also lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth of investment, income and employment.

Further it has clarified that real-estate broking service does not amount to real estate business and is therefore, eligible for 100 per cent FDI under automatic route.

The cabinet also decided to allow FIIs/FPIs to invest in power exchanges through primary market as well.

So far 49 per cent FDI was permitted under automatic route in power exchanges registered under the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Power Market) Regulations, 2010. However, FII/FPI purchases were restricted to secondary market only.

Currently, the government allows just 49 per cent under the automatic route

The Indian cabinet cleared a proposal on Wednesday allowing 100 percent foreign direct investment (FDI) in single-brand retail via the automatic route, government spokesman Frank Noronha said. Currently, the government allows just 49 per cent under the automatic route. The UPA government had earlier allowed 51% FDI in multi-brand retail in 2012 but stepped back after protests from the Opposition. After PM Modi came to power his government had put the policy on hold. In July 2015, the cabinet had allowed all companies to raise foreign portfolio investment up to 49 per cent through the automatic route. In June 2016, the NDA government had allowed 100 per cent FDI in food retail. The government said that the decision would help provide ease of doing business and also lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth of investment, income and employment. Further it has clarified that real-estate broking service does not amount to real estate business and is therefore, eligible for 100 per cent FDI under automatic route. The cabinet also decided to allow FIIs/FPIs to invest in power exchanges through primary market as well. So far 49 per cent FDI was permitted under automatic route in power exchanges registered under the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (Power Market) Regulations, 2010. However, FII/FPI purchases were restricted to secondary market only.

Government allows 100 per cent FDI in single-brand retail via automatic route

The government is likely to increase the budget allocation for the &#39;Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana&#39;&nbsp;(PMFBY) to Rs 13,000 crore for 2018-19 from Rs 10,701 crore for the current financial year, sources said.

The Union Budget for 2018-19 will be presented on February 1.

Under the upgraded crop insurance scheme PMFBY, launched early 2016, farmers pay a very nominal premium and get a full claim for the crop damage.

According to sources, the budget allocation for the PMFBY could go up to Rs 13,000 crore for the next fiscal taking into account about 10 per cent likely increase in the sum insured.

While the Agriculture Ministry has demanded Rs 11,000 crore budget for the next fiscal for the flagship scheme, but the ministry is hopeful of getting more funds from the Finance Ministry considering the importance of the scheme.

For the current fiscal, the government had initially given a budget of Rs 9,000.75 crore for the PMFBY. However, the additional requirement of Rs 1,701 crore was made through supplementary demands, taking the total allocation to

Rs 10,701 crore for the scheme, sources added.

Total crop insurance claim for 2016-17 crop year (July- June) is estimated to be Rs 15,500 crore. Already claims to the tune of Rs 13,661 crore have been reported, of which Rs 12,313 crore have been settled, according to official data.

As many as 5.70 crore farmers purchased the crop insurance policy PMFBY during the 2016-17 crop year.

Under the PMFBY, farmers&#39; premium has been kept lower between 1.5-2 per cent for foodgrains and oilseed crops, and up to 5 per cent for horticultural and cotton crops.

There is no cap on the premium and 25 per cent of the likely claim will be settled directly in farmers&#39; accounts.&nbsp;

The government is likely to increase the budget allocation for the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to Rs 13,000 crore for 2018-19

The government is likely to increase the budget allocation for the 'Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana' (PMFBY) to Rs 13,000 crore for 2018-19 from Rs 10,701 crore for the current financial year, sources said. The Union Budget for 2018-19 will be presented on February 1. Under the upgraded crop insurance scheme PMFBY, launched early 2016, farmers pay a very nominal premium and get a full claim for the crop damage. According to sources, the budget allocation for the PMFBY could go up to Rs 13,000 crore for the next fiscal taking into account about 10 per cent likely increase in the sum insured. While the Agriculture Ministry has demanded Rs 11,000 crore budget for the next fiscal for the flagship scheme, but the ministry is hopeful of getting more funds from the Finance Ministry considering the importance of the scheme. For the current fiscal, the government had initially given a budget of Rs 9,000.75 crore for the PMFBY. However, the additional requirement of Rs 1,701 crore was made through supplementary demands, taking the total allocation to Rs 10,701 crore for the scheme, sources added. Total crop insurance claim for 2016-17 crop year (July- June) is estimated to be Rs 15,500 crore. Already claims to the tune of Rs 13,661 crore have been reported, of which Rs 12,313 crore have been settled, according to official data. As many as 5.70 crore farmers purchased the crop insurance policy PMFBY during the 2016-17 crop year. Under the PMFBY, farmers' premium has been kept lower between 1.5-2 per cent for foodgrains and oilseed crops, and up to 5 per cent for horticultural and cotton crops. There is no cap on the premium and 25 per cent of the likely claim will be settled directly in farmers' accounts.

Crop insurance scheme likely to get Rs 13,000 crore in FY19 budget

Microsoft Corp said on Tuesday that software patches released to guard against microchip security threats slowed down some personal computers and servers, with systems running on older Intel Corp processors seeing a noticeable decrease in performance.

The comments in a blog post were the clearest signal from Microsoft that fixes for flaws in microchips from Intel and rivals described last week could meaningfully degrade performance. The topic is of keen interest to large data centre operators, which could incur significant cost increases if computers slow down.

Microsoft also said that security updates froze some computers using chipsets from Intel rival AMD, dragging AMD&#39;s shares down nearly 4 percent.

Shares in Intel, which reiterated on Tuesday that it saw no sign of significant slowdown in computers, fell 2.5 percent taking the loss since the issue surfaced last week to about 7 percent or around $15 billion in market value.

AMD shares have gained nearly 20 percent in the last week as investors speculated that the chipmaker could wrest market share from Intel, whose chips were most exposed to the security flaws.

Security researchers disclosed the flaws on January 3 that affected nearly every modern computing device containing chips from Intel, AMD and ARM Holdings, owned by Japan`s SoftBank Group Corp.

&quot;We (and others in the industry) had learned of this vulnerability under nondisclosure agreement several months ago and immediately began developing engineering mitigations and updating our cloud infrastructure,&quot; Microsoft executive Terry Myerson wrote in a blog post on Tuesday.

Internet and networking equipment maker Cisco Systems Inc said in a security advisory updated on Tuesday that it has identified 18 vulnerable products, including some of its blade servers, rack servers and routers, and expects to have patches for servers in about five weeks, on February 18.

Cisco said it is also looking for problems in nearly 30 other products, including switches and routers. The majority of Cisco&#39;s products were not vulnerable because they are &quot;closed systems that do not allow customers to run custom code on the device,&quot; it said.

The memory corruption flaws, named Meltdown and Spectre, could allow hackers to bypass operating systems and other security software to steal passwords or encryption keys on most types of computers, phones and cloud-based servers.

ARM Holdings estimated that around 5 percent of more than 120 billion chips its partners have shipped since 1991 was impacted by Spectre. It said the number of chips affected by Meltdown was significantly less.

&quot;ARM will address Spectre in future processors but there will need to be an ongoing discipline in the design of secure systems which needs to be addressed through both software and hardware,&quot; a company spokesman said in an emailed statement.&nbsp;

Intel and AMD have not disclosed the number of chips affected by the security flaws.

Intel said a typical home and business PC user should not see significant slowdowns in common tasks such as reading email, writing a document or accessing digital photos.&nbsp;

The chipmaker said last week that fixes for security issues in its microchips would not slow down computers, rebuffing concerns that the flaws would significantly reduce performance.

Rival AMD had also played down the threat, saying its products were at &quot;zero risk&quot; from the Meltdown flaw, but that one variant of the Spectre bug could be resolved by software updates from vendors such as Microsoft.

But on Tuesday AMD said it was aware of an issue with some older-generation processors following the installation of a Microsoft security update that was published over the weekend.

Microsoft said it was working with AMD to resolve the issues.

Apple Inc also released an updated version of its operating system software on Monday to fix the security flaw.

Security researchers disclosed the flaws on January 3 that affected nearly every modern computing device containing chips from Intel, AMD and ARM Holdings, owned by Japan's SoftBank Group Corp

Microsoft Corp said on Tuesday that software patches released to guard against microchip security threats slowed down some personal computers and servers, with systems running on older Intel Corp processors seeing a noticeable decrease in performance. The comments in a blog post were the clearest signal from Microsoft that fixes for flaws in microchips from Intel and rivals described last week could meaningfully degrade performance. The topic is of keen interest to large data centre operators, which could incur significant cost increases if computers slow down. Microsoft also said that security updates froze some computers using chipsets from Intel rival AMD, dragging AMD's shares down nearly 4 percent. Shares in Intel, which reiterated on Tuesday that it saw no sign of significant slowdown in computers, fell 2.5 percent taking the loss since the issue surfaced last week to about 7 percent or around $15 billion in market value. AMD shares have gained nearly 20 percent in the last week as investors speculated that the chipmaker could wrest market share from Intel, whose chips were most exposed to the security flaws. Security researchers disclosed the flaws on January 3 that affected nearly every modern computing device containing chips from Intel, AMD and ARM Holdings, owned by Japan`s SoftBank Group Corp. "We (and others in the industry) had learned of this vulnerability under nondisclosure agreement several months ago and immediately began developing engineering mitigations and updating our cloud infrastructure," Microsoft executive Terry Myerson wrote in a blog post on Tuesday. Internet and networking equipment maker Cisco Systems Inc said in a security advisory updated on Tuesday that it has identified 18 vulnerable products, including some of its blade servers, rack servers and routers, and expects to have patches for servers in about five weeks, on February 18. Cisco said it is also looking for problems in nearly 30 other products, including switches and routers. The majority of Cisco's products were not vulnerable because they are "closed systems that do not allow customers to run custom code on the device," it said. The memory corruption flaws, named Meltdown and Spectre, could allow hackers to bypass operating systems and other security software to steal passwords or encryption keys on most types of computers, phones and cloud-based servers. ARM Holdings estimated that around 5 percent of more than 120 billion chips its partners have shipped since 1991 was impacted by Spectre. It said the number of chips affected by Meltdown was significantly less. "ARM will address Spectre in future processors but there will need to be an ongoing discipline in the design of secure systems which needs to be addressed through both software and hardware," a company spokesman said in an emailed statement. Intel and AMD have not disclosed the number of chips affected by the security flaws. Intel said a typical home and business PC user should not see significant slowdowns in common tasks such as reading email, writing a document or accessing digital photos. The chipmaker said last week that fixes for security issues in its microchips would not slow down computers, rebuffing concerns that the flaws would significantly reduce performance. Rival AMD had also played down the threat, saying its products were at "zero risk" from the Meltdown flaw, but that one variant of the Spectre bug could be resolved by software updates from vendors such as Microsoft. But on Tuesday AMD said it was aware of an issue with some older-generation processors following the installation of a Microsoft security update that was published over the weekend. Microsoft said it was working with AMD to resolve the issues. Apple Inc also released an updated version of its operating system software on Monday to fix the security flaw.

Microsoft says security patches slowing down PCs, servers

The chairman of a US Senate committee overseeing business issues asked Apple to answer questions about its disclosure that it slowed older iPhones with flagging batteries, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Wednesday.

The California-based company apologised over the issue on December 28, cut battery replacement costs and said it will change its software to show users whether their phone battery is good.

Senator John Thune, a Republican who chairs the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, said in a January 9 letter to Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook that &quot;the large volume of consumer criticism leveled against the company in light of its admission suggests that there should have been better transparency.&quot;

Apple said it will cut the price of a replacement for an out-of-warranty battery to $29 from $79 for an iPhone 6 or later. The company also will update its iOS operating system so users can see whether the battery is in poor condition and affecting the phone&#39;s performance.

Thune asked if Apple considered making free battery replacements available or if it explored offering rebates for customers who paid full price for replacement batteries.

He also wants to know if Apple notified consumers of the throttling feature in software updates, which slows the phone, and if customers had the option of declining the update. The letter also asked if the similar software was used in earlier iPhone models.

Thune wants Apple&#39;s answers by January 23

An Apple spokesman did not respond to a request for comment early Wednesday.

Apple addressed the concerns about the quality and durability of its products at a time when it is charging $999 for its newest flagship model, the iPhone X.

&quot;We know that some of you feel Apple has let you down,&quot;it said last month. &quot;We apologize.&quot;

Apple acknowledged earlier in December that iPhone software can slow down some phones with battery problems. Apple said the problem was that aging lithium batteries delivered power unevenly, which could cause iPhones to shut down unexpectedly to protect the delicate circuits inside.

That disclosure played on a common belief among consumers that Apple purposely slows down older phones to encourage customers to buy newer iPhone models. While no credible evidence has emerged that Apple engaged in such conduct, the better disclosure struck a nerve on social media and elsewhere.

Lawsuits have been filed in California, New York and Illinois alleging the company defrauded users by slowing down devices without warning.

The company also faces a legal complaint in France, where so-called &quot;planned obsolesce&quot; is against the law.

The California-based company apologised over the issue on December 28, cut battery replacement costs and said it will change its software to show users whether their phone battery is good

The chairman of a US Senate committee overseeing business issues asked Apple to answer questions about its disclosure that it slowed older iPhones with flagging batteries, according to a letter seen by Reuters on Wednesday. The California-based company apologised over the issue on December 28, cut battery replacement costs and said it will change its software to show users whether their phone battery is good. Senator John Thune, a Republican who chairs the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, said in a January 9 letter to Apple Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook that "the large volume of consumer criticism leveled against the company in light of its admission suggests that there should have been better transparency." Apple said it will cut the price of a replacement for an out-of-warranty battery to $29 from $79 for an iPhone 6 or later. The company also will update its iOS operating system so users can see whether the battery is in poor condition and affecting the phone's performance. Thune asked if Apple considered making free battery replacements available or if it explored offering rebates for customers who paid full price for replacement batteries. He also wants to know if Apple notified consumers of the throttling feature in software updates, which slows the phone, and if customers had the option of declining the update. The letter also asked if the similar software was used in earlier iPhone models. Thune wants Apple's answers by January 23 An Apple spokesman did not respond to a request for comment early Wednesday. Apple addressed the concerns about the quality and durability of its products at a time when it is charging $999 for its newest flagship model, the iPhone X. "We know that some of you feel Apple has let you down,"it said last month. "We apologize." Apple acknowledged earlier in December that iPhone software can slow down some phones with battery problems. Apple said the problem was that aging lithium batteries delivered power unevenly, which could cause iPhones to shut down unexpectedly to protect the delicate circuits inside. That disclosure played on a common belief among consumers that Apple purposely slows down older phones to encourage customers to buy newer iPhone models. While no credible evidence has emerged that Apple engaged in such conduct, the better disclosure struck a nerve on social media and elsewhere. Lawsuits have been filed in California, New York and Illinois alleging the company defrauded users by slowing down devices without warning. The company also faces a legal complaint in France, where so-called "planned obsolesce" is against the law.

US senator wants Apple to answer questions on slowing iPhones

Country&#39;s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) on Wednesday said it has increased prices of its models by up to Rs 17,000 in order to partially offset rise in input costs.

In a regulatory filing, it said the hike will range between Rs 1,700 and Rs 17,000 across models owing to increase in commodity, administrative and distribution costs.

MSI sells a range of models starting with hatchback Alto 800 to premium crossover S-Cross, priced between Rs 2.45 lakh and Rs 11.29 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The company had said last month that it will take a price increase from this month. Maruti recently entered the club of top-five most valued companies list

Tata Motors has already increased prices of its vehicles by up to Rs 25,000 from January 1.

Various automakers including, Hyundai Motor India, Honda Cars, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra have already announced to increase prices from this month.

These companies are however yet to announce price increase for their respective vehicles.

MSI sells a range of models starting with hatchback Alto 800 to premium crossover S-Cross, priced between Rs 2.45 lakh and Rs 11.29 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

Country's largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) on Wednesday said it has increased prices of its models by up to Rs 17,000 in order to partially offset rise in input costs. In a regulatory filing, it said the hike will range between Rs 1,700 and Rs 17,000 across models owing to increase in commodity, administrative and distribution costs. MSI sells a range of models starting with hatchback Alto 800 to premium crossover S-Cross, priced between Rs 2.45 lakh and Rs 11.29 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). The company had said last month that it will take a price increase from this month. Maruti recently entered the club of top-five most valued companies list Tata Motors has already increased prices of its vehicles by up to Rs 25,000 from January 1. Various automakers including, Hyundai Motor India, Honda Cars, Mahindra & Mahindra have already announced to increase prices from this month. These companies are however yet to announce price increase for their respective vehicles.

Maruti Suzuki hikes prices by up to Rs 17,000

Apple Inc shareholders Jana Partners and the California State Teachers&#39;&nbsp;Retirement System are urging the smartphone maker to take steps to address what they say is a growing problem of young people getting addicted to Apple&#39;s iPhones, Jana partner Charles Penner said.

Jana, a leading activist shareholder, and CalSTRS, one of the nation&#39;s largest public pension plans, delivered a letter to Apple on Saturday asking the company to consider developing software that would allow parents to limit children&#39;s phone use, the Wall Street Journal reported earlier on Sunday.

Jana and CalSTRS also asked Apple to study the impact of excessive phone use on mental health, according to the publication.&nbsp;

CalSTRS and Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Jana and CalSTRS together control about $2 billion worth of Apple shares, the Journal reports.

The social rights issue is a new turn for Jana, which is known for pushing companies it invests in to make financial changes.&nbsp;

However, the issue of phone addiction among young people has become a growing concern in the United States as parents report their children cannot give up their phones. CalSTRS and Jana worry that Apple`s reputation and stock could be hurt if it does not address those concerns, according to the Journal.&nbsp;

Half of the teenagers in the United States feel like they are addicted to their mobile phones and report feeling pressure to immediately respond to phone messages, according to a 2016 survey of children and their parents by Common Sense Media.

The phone addiction issue got a high-profile boost from the former Disney child star Selena Gomez, 24, who said she cancelled a 2016 world tour to go to therapy for depression and low self-esteem, feelings she linked to her addiction to social media and the mobile photo-sharing app Instagram.

Jana and CalSTRS also asked Apple to study the impact of excessive phone use on mental health, according to the publication

Apple Inc shareholders Jana Partners and the California State Teachers' Retirement System are urging the smartphone maker to take steps to address what they say is a growing problem of young people getting addicted to Apple's iPhones, Jana partner Charles Penner said. Jana, a leading activist shareholder, and CalSTRS, one of the nation's largest public pension plans, delivered a letter to Apple on Saturday asking the company to consider developing software that would allow parents to limit children's phone use, the Wall Street Journal reported earlier on Sunday. Jana and CalSTRS also asked Apple to study the impact of excessive phone use on mental health, according to the publication. CalSTRS and Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Jana and CalSTRS together control about $2 billion worth of Apple shares, the Journal reports. The social rights issue is a new turn for Jana, which is known for pushing companies it invests in to make financial changes. However, the issue of phone addiction among young people has become a growing concern in the United States as parents report their children cannot give up their phones. CalSTRS and Jana worry that Apple`s reputation and stock could be hurt if it does not address those concerns, according to the Journal. Half of the teenagers in the United States feel like they are addicted to their mobile phones and report feeling pressure to immediately respond to phone messages, according to a 2016 survey of children and their parents by Common Sense Media. The phone addiction issue got a high-profile boost from the former Disney child star Selena Gomez, 24, who said she cancelled a 2016 world tour to go to therapy for depression and low self-esteem, feelings she linked to her addiction to social media and the mobile photo-sharing app Instagram.

Apple should address youth phone addiction, say two large investors

The benchmark BSE Sensex today surged to close at a new life high of 34,443.19 on gains in IT, FMCG, oil&amp; gas and energy stocks amid positive leads from global markets, extending its record-breaking run for a&nbsp;third day.

Also, Nifty settled at fresh high of 10,637.

But caution prevailed as crude prices surged to the highest level since 2015.

Opening higher, the 30-share Sensex quickly rallied to an all-time intra-day high of 34,488.03 as Coal India, ITC and Tata Motors posted smart gains.

Profit booking in some pharma, capital goods and telecom stocks at record levels, however, pulled the index to a low of 34,343.41 during the day trade.

The Sensex finally settled up 90.40 points, or 0.26 per cent at 34,443.19, which is still all time closing high. It breached its previous record closing of 34,352.79 points hit yesterday.

The index has risen by 559.41 points in the previous three straight sessions.

The broader 50-share NSE Nifty also maintained its bull run and touched a new peak of 10,659.15 (intra-day). It settled higher by 13.40 points, or 0.13 per cent, at a new peak of 10,637.00, beating its previous record closing of 10,623.60, recorded in yesterday&#39;s trade.

It also broke the previous intra-day record of 10,631.20 hit in yesterday&#39;s session.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have been supporting the ongoing rally by pumping in sizeable capital. They purchased shares worth Rs 692.83 crore while Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares to the tune of Rs 206.30 crore yesterday, as per provisional data from the stock exchanges.&nbsp;

The Sensex finally settled up 90.40 points, or 0.26 per cent at 34,443.19, which is still all time closing high

The benchmark BSE Sensex today surged to close at a new life high of 34,443.19 on gains in IT, FMCG, oil& gas and energy stocks amid positive leads from global markets, extending its record-breaking run for a third day. Also, Nifty settled at fresh high of 10,637. But caution prevailed as crude prices surged to the highest level since 2015. Opening higher, the 30-share Sensex quickly rallied to an all-time intra-day high of 34,488.03 as Coal India, ITC and Tata Motors posted smart gains. Profit booking in some pharma, capital goods and telecom stocks at record levels, however, pulled the index to a low of 34,343.41 during the day trade. The Sensex finally settled up 90.40 points, or 0.26 per cent at 34,443.19, which is still all time closing high. It breached its previous record closing of 34,352.79 points hit yesterday. The index has risen by 559.41 points in the previous three straight sessions. The broader 50-share NSE Nifty also maintained its bull run and touched a new peak of 10,659.15 (intra-day). It settled higher by 13.40 points, or 0.13 per cent, at a new peak of 10,637.00, beating its previous record closing of 10,623.60, recorded in yesterday's trade. It also broke the previous intra-day record of 10,631.20 hit in yesterday's session. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have been supporting the ongoing rally by pumping in sizeable capital. They purchased shares worth Rs 692.83 crore while Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares to the tune of Rs 206.30 crore yesterday, as per provisional data from the stock exchanges.

Stocks at new closing highs on fund inflows, global leads

Indian shares hit record highs for a third straight session on Tuesday as Coal India Ltd surged after price hikes, but broader gains were capped by losses in IT and financial sectors.

Coal India rose to its highest in 10 months after the company raised prices of non-coking coal across all its units. It expects an incremental revenue of about 19.56 billion rupees ($308 million) for the rest of the current fiscal year.

But caution prevailed ahead of the corporate results season kicking in this week. Tata Consultancy Services is due to post December-quarter results on Thursday, followed by Infosys&nbsp;on Friday.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is expected to present the federal budget for the 2018/19 financial year on February 1, amid investor concerns that the government could unveil some populist measures with heavier spending than this year.

&quot;Markets are flattish as there is some volatility due to expectations around budget, corporate results which are starting soon and the global markets,&quot; said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

Broadly, the trend is still very positive, he said.

The broader NSE Nifty was up 0.1 percent at 10,633.50 as of 0616 GMT, after rising as much as 0.33 percent to a record of 10,659.15.

The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 0.26 percent to 34,441.64, after gaining as much as 0.39 percent to 34,487.52, its highest ever.

Among the gainers, energy shares advanced the most, with Nifty energy index rising as much as 0.8 percent. Coal India shares gained 6.1 percent and Reliance Industries Ltd&nbsp;rose 1.3 percent.

ITC Ltd&nbsp;rose 1.7 percent and was among the top contributors to the index gains.

Tata Motors Ltd&nbsp;rose 1.7 percent. Its Jaguar Land Rover unit&#39;s sales rose 7 pct to a record 621,109 vehicles in 2017 but said it faced tough conditions in the UK due to weakening consumer confidence and a planned diesel tax rise on new cars.

Information technology stocks were down with TCS falling 0.6 percent and Wipro &lt;WIPR.NS&gt; losing 1 percent.

Meanwhile, iron ore miner NMDC Ltd dropped 3.9 percent after the government unveiled a plan to sell up to 47.5 million shares in the company.

Indian shares hit record high for a third straight session on Tuesday as Coal India Ltd surged after price hikes

Indian shares hit record highs for a third straight session on Tuesday as Coal India Ltd surged after price hikes, but broader gains were capped by losses in IT and financial sectors. Coal India rose to its highest in 10 months after the company raised prices of non-coking coal across all its units. It expects an incremental revenue of about 19.56 billion rupees ($308 million) for the rest of the current fiscal year. But caution prevailed ahead of the corporate results season kicking in this week. Tata Consultancy Services is due to post December-quarter results on Thursday, followed by Infosys on Friday. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is expected to present the federal budget for the 2018/19 financial year on February 1, amid investor concerns that the government could unveil some populist measures with heavier spending than this year. "Markets are flattish as there is some volatility due to expectations around budget, corporate results which are starting soon and the global markets," said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services. Broadly, the trend is still very positive, he said. The broader NSE Nifty was up 0.1 percent at 10,633.50 as of 0616 GMT, after rising as much as 0.33 percent to a record of 10,659.15. The benchmark BSE Sensex rose 0.26 percent to 34,441.64, after gaining as much as 0.39 percent to 34,487.52, its highest ever. Among the gainers, energy shares advanced the most, with Nifty energy index rising as much as 0.8 percent. Coal India shares gained 6.1 percent and Reliance Industries Ltd rose 1.3 percent. ITC Ltd rose 1.7 percent and was among the top contributors to the index gains. Tata Motors Ltd rose 1.7 percent. Its Jaguar Land Rover unit's sales rose 7 pct to a record 621,109 vehicles in 2017 but said it faced tough conditions in the UK due to weakening consumer confidence and a planned diesel tax rise on new cars. Information technology stocks were down with TCS falling 0.6 percent and Wipro <WIPR.NS> losing 1 percent. Meanwhile, iron ore miner NMDC Ltd dropped 3.9 percent after the government unveiled a plan to sell up to 47.5 million shares in the company.

Sensex hits fresh highs; Coal India surges on price hike

Direct tax collections soared 18.2 per cent during the first nine months of current fiscal at Rs 6.56 lakh crore, the finance ministry said on Tuesday.

In a statement, the ministry said provisional numbers for direct taxes collections showed an 18.2 per cent growth during April-December.

Direct taxes are made up of income tax paid by individuals, wealth tax and corporation tax paid by companies.

&quot;The net direct tax collections represent 67 per cent of the total Budget Estimates of direct taxes for FY2017-18 (Rs 9.8 lakh crore),&quot; the statement said.

Gross collections (before adjusting for refunds) have increased by 12.6 per cent to Rs 7.68 lakh crore during April to December, 2017.

As many as Rs 1.12 lakh crore refunds have been issued in the period.

The ministry said advance tax collection was up 12.7 per cent at Rs 3.18 lakh crore.

While the growth in corporate income tax advance tax is 10.9 per cent, that in personal Income Tax advance tax is 21.6 per cent.

Direct taxes are made up of income tax paid by individuals, wealth tax and corporation tax paid by companies.

Direct tax collections soared 18.2 per cent during the first nine months of current fiscal at Rs 6.56 lakh crore, the finance ministry said on Tuesday. In a statement, the ministry said provisional numbers for direct taxes collections showed an 18.2 per cent growth during April-December. Direct taxes are made up of income tax paid by individuals, wealth tax and corporation tax paid by companies. "The net direct tax collections represent 67 per cent of the total Budget Estimates of direct taxes for FY2017-18 (Rs 9.8 lakh crore)," the statement said. Gross collections (before adjusting for refunds) have increased by 12.6 per cent to Rs 7.68 lakh crore during April to December, 2017. As many as Rs 1.12 lakh crore refunds have been issued in the period. The ministry said advance tax collection was up 12.7 per cent at Rs 3.18 lakh crore. While the growth in corporate income tax advance tax is 10.9 per cent, that in personal Income Tax advance tax is 21.6 per cent.

Direct tax collections rise 18.2 per cent in April-December

The BSE Sensex hit a fresh record high of 34,487.52 while NSE Nifty touched life-time high of 10,659.15 in the opening session on Tuesday on smart gains in Coal India, Tata Motors and SBI.

Rising for the third straight day, the 30-share index spurted by 134.73 points, or 0.39 per cent, to hit a new peak of 34,487.52.

The gauge gained 559.41 points in previous three sessions to close at a record high at 34,352.79 in Monday&#39;s session. It had also touched an intra-day lifetime high of 34,385.67 in the previous session.

Sectoral indices, led by IT, teck and metal were trading in the positive zone with gains up to 0.22 per cent.

The 50-share NSE Nifty gained 35.55 points, or 0.33 per cent, to scale its lifetime high of 10,659.15. The gauge had touched an intra-day high of 10,631.20 on Monday.

Coal India soared by over seven per cent after its board approved a hike in prices of non-coking coal for power and non-power sectors with immediate effect.

The price hike would boost its revenue by Rs 1,956 crore in the remaining part of the 2017-18 fiscal.

Among other gainers, Wipro, ONGC, Tata Motors, M&amp;M, SBI, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever, Tata Steel, HDFC Ltd, TCS, Axis Bank, Bharti Airtel, Kotak Bank and Maruti Suzuki rose up to two per cent.

Continuous foreign fund inflows and raising of bets by investors amid optimism over third quarterly earnings and upcoming budget helped the key indices to hit record hits, traders said.

Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 692.83 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 206.30 crore yesterday, according to provisional exchange data.

Among other Asian markets, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng gained 0.26 per cent, while Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.13 per cent in their early deals. Japan&#39;s Nikkei too edged higher 0.54 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, closed 0.05 per cent lower yesterday.

Rising for the third straight day, the 30-share index spurted by 134.73 points, or 0.39 per cent, to hit a new peak of 34,487.52.

The BSE Sensex hit a fresh record high of 34,487.52 while NSE Nifty touched life-time high of 10,659.15 in the opening session on Tuesday on smart gains in Coal India, Tata Motors and SBI. Rising for the third straight day, the 30-share index spurted by 134.73 points, or 0.39 per cent, to hit a new peak of 34,487.52. The gauge gained 559.41 points in previous three sessions to close at a record high at 34,352.79 in Monday's session. It had also touched an intra-day lifetime high of 34,385.67 in the previous session. Sectoral indices, led by IT, teck and metal were trading in the positive zone with gains up to 0.22 per cent. The 50-share NSE Nifty gained 35.55 points, or 0.33 per cent, to scale its lifetime high of 10,659.15. The gauge had touched an intra-day high of 10,631.20 on Monday. Coal India soared by over seven per cent after its board approved a hike in prices of non-coking coal for power and non-power sectors with immediate effect. The price hike would boost its revenue by Rs 1,956 crore in the remaining part of the 2017-18 fiscal. Among other gainers, Wipro, ONGC, Tata Motors, M&M, SBI, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever, Tata Steel, HDFC Ltd, TCS, Axis Bank, Bharti Airtel, Kotak Bank and Maruti Suzuki rose up to two per cent. Continuous foreign fund inflows and raising of bets by investors amid optimism over third quarterly earnings and upcoming budget helped the key indices to hit record hits, traders said. Meanwhile, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 692.83 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) sold shares worth Rs 206.30 crore yesterday, according to provisional exchange data. Among other Asian markets, Hong Kong's Hang Seng gained 0.26 per cent, while Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.13 per cent in their early deals. Japan's Nikkei too edged higher 0.54 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average, however, closed 0.05 per cent lower yesterday.

Sensex, Nifty scale fresh record high as Coal India spurts

Alphabet Inc&#39;s Google said on Monday its voice-controlled virtual assistant will show up this year in new tablet-like devices designed by LG Electronics Inc and Sony Corp as the technology company seeks to challenge Amazon.com Inc&#39;s dominance in a fledgeling market.

Dubbed smart displays by Google, the new devices introduce tablet-like screens to speakers that can obey oral commands to perform tasks like playing music, dimming lights, locking doors and setting alarms.

JBL and Lenovo Group Ltd also are developing smart displays, Google said.

Amazon kick-started the market for smart speakers in 2014 with its Echo device, which included the Alexa virtual assistant. The company added a screen for the first time in June, calling the device the Echo Show.

Neither Apple Inc&#39;s assistant Siri nor Microsoft Corp&#39;s Cortana is currently available on a speaker with a tablet-like display.

The new Google Assistant gadgets unveiled Monday at the CES trade show in Las Vegas marked the first challenge to Amazon&#39;s Echo Show and the smaller Echo Spot, which also has a display. The Show went on sale in June for $230 and the Spot in December for $130.

Users of the smart displays being unveiled by Google cannot browse the Web or install apps as they would on a tablet, but the new gadgets are optimized for sound quality and listening to voice commands. Information related to the commands is brought up on the touchscreen.

Lenovo&#39;s version of the smart display will come with an 8-inch screen for $200 or a 10.1-inch screen for $250. The device will go on sale &quot;early this summer&quot; and includes a camera that shoots in 720p high definition, Lenovo said.

JBL, part of Samsung Electronics&#39;&nbsp;Harman Kardon subsidiary, LG and Sony did not announce pricing and release dates.

The partnerships are important for Google as it tries to catch up with Amazon in the new category of smart speakers that both play music and function as voice-controlled electronic assistants.

About 45 million people in the United States will use smart speakers in 2018, research firm EMarketer estimates, and Amazon has about two-thirds of the U.S. market.

Amazon did not immediately respond to a request to comment.

Steep discounts during the holidays on the most affordable models of Google&#39;s Home smart speakers and the Amazon Echo likely meant both companies were taking losses to get them into millions of homes, analysts told Reuters.

In a sign of the stakes involved, Google last year cut off the Echo Show&#39;s access to YouTube and took the rare step of explicitly saying it was acting in retaliation for Amazon refusing to sell Google products.

Displaying YouTube videos and showing recipes are top selling points for smart displays, said Gummi Hafsteinsson, the Google product director overseeing Assistant.

The devices can show details about restaurants, launch a video chat over Google Duo and pull up images hosted on Google Photos. 
Google did not announce its own hardware plans on Monday.&nbsp;

The company has experimented with developing a version of Google Home with a screen, Rishi Chandra, vice president of the division, told Reuters in August.&nbsp;

Neither Apple Inc's assistant Siri nor Microsoft Corp's Cortana is currently available on a speaker with a tablet-like display

Alphabet Inc's Google said on Monday its voice-controlled virtual assistant will show up this year in new tablet-like devices designed by LG Electronics Inc and Sony Corp as the technology company seeks to challenge Amazon.com Inc's dominance in a fledgeling market. Dubbed smart displays by Google, the new devices introduce tablet-like screens to speakers that can obey oral commands to perform tasks like playing music, dimming lights, locking doors and setting alarms. JBL and Lenovo Group Ltd also are developing smart displays, Google said. Amazon kick-started the market for smart speakers in 2014 with its Echo device, which included the Alexa virtual assistant. The company added a screen for the first time in June, calling the device the Echo Show. Neither Apple Inc's assistant Siri nor Microsoft Corp's Cortana is currently available on a speaker with a tablet-like display. The new Google Assistant gadgets unveiled Monday at the CES trade show in Las Vegas marked the first challenge to Amazon's Echo Show and the smaller Echo Spot, which also has a display. The Show went on sale in June for $230 and the Spot in December for $130. Users of the smart displays being unveiled by Google cannot browse the Web or install apps as they would on a tablet, but the new gadgets are optimized for sound quality and listening to voice commands. Information related to the commands is brought up on the touchscreen. Lenovo's version of the smart display will come with an 8-inch screen for $200 or a 10.1-inch screen for $250. The device will go on sale "early this summer" and includes a camera that shoots in 720p high definition, Lenovo said. JBL, part of Samsung Electronics' Harman Kardon subsidiary, LG and Sony did not announce pricing and release dates. The partnerships are important for Google as it tries to catch up with Amazon in the new category of smart speakers that both play music and function as voice-controlled electronic assistants. About 45 million people in the United States will use smart speakers in 2018, research firm EMarketer estimates, and Amazon has about two-thirds of the U.S. market. Amazon did not immediately respond to a request to comment. Steep discounts during the holidays on the most affordable models of Google's Home smart speakers and the Amazon Echo likely meant both companies were taking losses to get them into millions of homes, analysts told Reuters. In a sign of the stakes involved, Google last year cut off the Echo Show's access to YouTube and took the rare step of explicitly saying it was acting in retaliation for Amazon refusing to sell Google products. Displaying YouTube videos and showing recipes are top selling points for smart displays, said Gummi Hafsteinsson, the Google product director overseeing Assistant. The devices can show details about restaurants, launch a video chat over Google Duo and pull up images hosted on Google Photos. Google did not announce its own hardware plans on Monday. The company has experimented with developing a version of Google Home with a screen, Rishi Chandra, vice president of the division, told Reuters in August.

Google teams with Sony, Lenovo for smart speakers with touchscreens

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd on Tuesday estimated a 64 per cent jump in fourth-quarter operating profit to a new record, but the guidance fell short of market expectations as the strong won and year-end bonuses dented profits.&nbsp;

The global memory chip leader and Apple Inc smartphone rival said its October-December profit was likely 15.1 trillion won ($14.1 billion), compared with a 15.9 trillion won average estimate from 17 analysts surveyed in a Thomson Reuters poll.&nbsp;

Based on the guidance, Samsung&#39;s 2017 operating profit is likely 53.6 trillion won, compared to the previous year&#39;s 29.2 trillion won, putting the South Korean tech giant on course for a record annual profit as strong DRAM memory chip prices continued to fatten margins.&nbsp;

Revenue was estimated to have increased 24 percent to 66 trillion won, versus the analysts&#39;&nbsp;average forecast of 66.8 trillion won.&nbsp;

Samsung did not elaborate on its October-December performance and will disclose detailed results at the end of January.&nbsp;

The continued rise in the price of DRAM chips, in especially hot demand for data centre servers, more than made up for a drop in NAND chip prices and a stronger won, analysts said.&nbsp;

But the outlook for semiconductors in 2018 is mixed, and Samsung shares have fallen 9.6 percent from their all-time high in early November as some investors bet on an end to the memory chip boom.

NAND flash memory chips, used in things like digital cameras and USB drives, have entered a down-cycle and some analysts say DRAM market conditions also will soften later this year.&nbsp;

Others, however, expect DRAM supply to remain tight throughout 2018 as Google, Amazon and Facebook expand data centres used for cloud storage and computing.&nbsp;

The outlook for smartphones and other mobile devices, which analysts expect to contribute about 17 percent to Samsung&#39;s fourth-quarter earnings, is also uncertain due to competition from Chinese rivals in markets like Europe and Asia, analysts said.

Tom Kang, research director at data provider Counterpoint, said Samsung&#39;s mobile division should show &quot;moderate&quot; shipment growth of about 1-2 percent in 2018.&nbsp;

Analysts expect Samsung&#39;s display profits to grow this year thanks to sales of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens for Apple iPhones as well as Samsung`s own handsets.

South Korean exporters like Samsung will be keeping a close eye on the won in 2018. The currency traded as high as 1,058.8 against the dollar on Monday, its highest in more than three years.&nbsp;

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd on Tuesday estimated a 64 per cent jump in fourth-quarter operating profit to a new record

Samsung Electronics Co Ltd on Tuesday estimated a 64 per cent jump in fourth-quarter operating profit to a new record, but the guidance fell short of market expectations as the strong won and year-end bonuses dented profits. The global memory chip leader and Apple Inc smartphone rival said its October-December profit was likely 15.1 trillion won ($14.1 billion), compared with a 15.9 trillion won average estimate from 17 analysts surveyed in a Thomson Reuters poll. Based on the guidance, Samsung's 2017 operating profit is likely 53.6 trillion won, compared to the previous year's 29.2 trillion won, putting the South Korean tech giant on course for a record annual profit as strong DRAM memory chip prices continued to fatten margins. Revenue was estimated to have increased 24 percent to 66 trillion won, versus the analysts' average forecast of 66.8 trillion won. Samsung did not elaborate on its October-December performance and will disclose detailed results at the end of January. The continued rise in the price of DRAM chips, in especially hot demand for data centre servers, more than made up for a drop in NAND chip prices and a stronger won, analysts said. But the outlook for semiconductors in 2018 is mixed, and Samsung shares have fallen 9.6 percent from their all-time high in early November as some investors bet on an end to the memory chip boom. NAND flash memory chips, used in things like digital cameras and USB drives, have entered a down-cycle and some analysts say DRAM market conditions also will soften later this year. Others, however, expect DRAM supply to remain tight throughout 2018 as Google, Amazon and Facebook expand data centres used for cloud storage and computing. The outlook for smartphones and other mobile devices, which analysts expect to contribute about 17 percent to Samsung's fourth-quarter earnings, is also uncertain due to competition from Chinese rivals in markets like Europe and Asia, analysts said. Tom Kang, research director at data provider Counterpoint, said Samsung's mobile division should show "moderate" shipment growth of about 1-2 percent in 2018. Analysts expect Samsung's display profits to grow this year thanks to sales of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screens for Apple iPhones as well as Samsung`s own handsets. South Korean exporters like Samsung will be keeping a close eye on the won in 2018. The currency traded as high as 1,058.8 against the dollar on Monday, its highest in more than three years.

Samsung Electronics tips record fourth-quarter profit misses expectations on strong won

After a rollercoaster year for the tech world, many industry leaders are looking to the cutting edge for salvation.

As tech industry players converge in Las Vegas for the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show, an overriding theme is that gizmos, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and superfast internet connections hold answers to many if not all ills -- the new religion.

One of the world&#39;s largest trade shows, CES is drawing an expected 170,000 people and 40,000 exhibitors from dozens of countries showing wares in robotics, digital health, artificial intelligence, sports and more.

Technology will continue to improve communication, enchanting us with bolder and brighter screens, exhibitors say -- but it additionally vows to end urban congestion, treat cancer and depression, and help us live fitter and more productive lives.

Jensen Huang, chief executive of the computer chip and artificial intelligence group Nvidia, said advances in machine learning have opened up vast possibilities, including the ability of software writing software.

&quot;This means we can solve previously unsolvable problems,&quot; Huang told a media event Sunday, ahead of the official Tuesday opening of the trade event.

Some exhibitors envision a world where self-driving cars could be summoned any time of the day, eliminating struggles to find parking or petrol stations.

Machines would tend to the tedium of traffic, which would run smoother since vehicles would wirelessly &quot;talk&quot; to one another to optimize travel efficiency.

A new &quot;intuitive and intelligent&quot; car from Chinese startup Byton aims to tackle the billions of hours lost to traffic congestion around the world each year.&nbsp;

Those times lost &quot;could be used for things which are so much more fulfilling,&quot; Henrik Wenders, vice president of Byton, said Sunday at one of the first media events at the show.

While tech is being touted as a solution to many ills, there is also a darker side, noted analyst Bob O`Donnell of Technalysis Research.

&quot;Tech is being seen as the cure for everything, but it can also be the cause of societal issues,&quot; O&#39;Donnell said, citing concerns over cybersecurity and a recently revealed flaw in computer chip technology that could leak data.

&quot;Most people in tech are optimistic, but they may be naively optimistic.&quot;Robin Raskin, who heads the CES segment called Living in Digital Times, pointed to advances in health and medicine in recent years, particularly new technologies to assess cancer and treatment possibilities.

Startups and major firms are also using new apps and technologies to tackle diabetes and depression.

One startup on Sunday unveiled eye-tracking technology to analyze ailments including autism, concussions and Parkinson&#39;s disease.

RightEye co-founder and chief executive Adam Gross heralded the technology as &quot;a game-changer&quot; for the healthcare and sports industries, emphasizing the ability to quickly and accurately generate &quot;amazing insights&quot; into health, vision and performance.

In collaboration with doctors or trainers, the information could be used to guide therapies or exercise routines.

&quot;The potential for this technology to change people`s lives around the world is incredible and really exciting,&quot; Gross said.

Technology will automate and augment the treatment of disease in the years ahead, predicted Consumer Technology Association research manager Lesley Rohrbaugh.

&quot;You can talk with a health care provider through an app, and get remote monitoring,&quot; Rohrbaugh said, speaking at CES.

&quot;You can visit your doctor without actually physically visiting them.&quot;

Virtual reality is also being incorporated into therapy, used to treat traumas, phobias and even dementia from ageing, according to Rohrbaugh.

As much of the global population migrates to urban areas, technology is powering &quot;smart cities&quot; -- where sensors, cameras and cloud computing work like house elves to manage needs like recycling, trash disposal, traffic, pollution and road repairs.

Inside homes, devices can make sure water and air stay clean, and that people are sleeping well.

Technology can also keep us safe, exhibitors say. Biometrics including fingerprint, iris and facial recognition are being built into smartphones, computers and padlocks as security features.

Robots, meanwhile, are being designed to do everything from patrol oceans for fish poachers to watching after us, especially as we age.

Tech industry players converge in Las Vegas for the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show

After a rollercoaster year for the tech world, many industry leaders are looking to the cutting edge for salvation. As tech industry players converge in Las Vegas for the 2018 Consumer Electronics Show, an overriding theme is that gizmos, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and superfast internet connections hold answers to many if not all ills -- the new religion. One of the world's largest trade shows, CES is drawing an expected 170,000 people and 40,000 exhibitors from dozens of countries showing wares in robotics, digital health, artificial intelligence, sports and more. Technology will continue to improve communication, enchanting us with bolder and brighter screens, exhibitors say -- but it additionally vows to end urban congestion, treat cancer and depression, and help us live fitter and more productive lives. Jensen Huang, chief executive of the computer chip and artificial intelligence group Nvidia, said advances in machine learning have opened up vast possibilities, including the ability of software writing software. "This means we can solve previously unsolvable problems," Huang told a media event Sunday, ahead of the official Tuesday opening of the trade event. Some exhibitors envision a world where self-driving cars could be summoned any time of the day, eliminating struggles to find parking or petrol stations. Machines would tend to the tedium of traffic, which would run smoother since vehicles would wirelessly "talk" to one another to optimize travel efficiency. A new "intuitive and intelligent" car from Chinese startup Byton aims to tackle the billions of hours lost to traffic congestion around the world each year. Those times lost "could be used for things which are so much more fulfilling," Henrik Wenders, vice president of Byton, said Sunday at one of the first media events at the show. While tech is being touted as a solution to many ills, there is also a darker side, noted analyst Bob O`Donnell of Technalysis Research. "Tech is being seen as the cure for everything, but it can also be the cause of societal issues," O'Donnell said, citing concerns over cybersecurity and a recently revealed flaw in computer chip technology that could leak data. "Most people in tech are optimistic, but they may be naively optimistic."Robin Raskin, who heads the CES segment called Living in Digital Times, pointed to advances in health and medicine in recent years, particularly new technologies to assess cancer and treatment possibilities. Startups and major firms are also using new apps and technologies to tackle diabetes and depression. One startup on Sunday unveiled eye-tracking technology to analyze ailments including autism, concussions and Parkinson's disease. RightEye co-founder and chief executive Adam Gross heralded the technology as "a game-changer" for the healthcare and sports industries, emphasizing the ability to quickly and accurately generate "amazing insights" into health, vision and performance. In collaboration with doctors or trainers, the information could be used to guide therapies or exercise routines. "The potential for this technology to change people`s lives around the world is incredible and really exciting," Gross said. Technology will automate and augment the treatment of disease in the years ahead, predicted Consumer Technology Association research manager Lesley Rohrbaugh. "You can talk with a health care provider through an app, and get remote monitoring," Rohrbaugh said, speaking at CES. "You can visit your doctor without actually physically visiting them." Virtual reality is also being incorporated into therapy, used to treat traumas, phobias and even dementia from ageing, according to Rohrbaugh. As much of the global population migrates to urban areas, technology is powering "smart cities" -- where sensors, cameras and cloud computing work like house elves to manage needs like recycling, trash disposal, traffic, pollution and road repairs. Inside homes, devices can make sure water and air stay clean, and that people are sleeping well. Technology can also keep us safe, exhibitors say. Biometrics including fingerprint, iris and facial recognition are being built into smartphones, computers and padlocks as security features. Robots, meanwhile, are being designed to do everything from patrol oceans for fish poachers to watching after us, especially as we age.

Tech loyalists gather to worship at Mecca of innovation

Stocks rose to fresh life-time closing high levels on optimism over earnings, growth and budget, with the benchmark BSE Sensex jumping by 199 points to end at record 34,352.79.&nbsp;

The broader NSE Nifty for the first time closed above 10,600 mark after consistent buying by domestic and foreign investors.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Gains in key IT, capital goods, healthcare and metal stocks helped both the key indices to scale new peaks.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The 30-share Sensex continued its upward march to touch a new intra-day record high of 34,385.67, surpassing its previous high of 34,188.85 hits on January 5.&nbsp;

But it lost some ground due to profit-booking and settled at a new closing peak of 34,352.79, up 198.94 points, or 0.58 per cent. The Sensex bettered its previous record of 34,153.85 touched on January 5.&nbsp;

In last two days, the index has gained 360.47 points.&nbsp;

Similarly, the broader 50-issue NSE Nifty hit a new intra-day high of 10,631.20, smashing its previous record of 10,566.10 hit on January 5.&nbsp;

&nbsp;However, it shed some grounds to close at 10,623.60, still a new closing high, up by 64.75 points or 0.61 per cent. It broke the previous record of 10,558.85 reached on January 5.&nbsp;

Traders said sentiment remained upbeat on continuous foreign fund inflows and unabated buying by investors amid expectations of encouraging quarterly earnings and hopes of the growth-oriented budget next month.&nbsp;

Firm global cues with most other Asian markets rising with the corporate earnings season about to kick off amid more records on Wall Street, too positively impacted on the domestic bourses here.&nbsp;

India&#39;s economic growth is estimated to slow down to 4- year low of 6.5 per cent this fiscal, the lowest under the NDA regime, mainly due to GST impact on manufacturing and subdued farm output.&nbsp;

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 and 8 per cent in the preceding year. It was 7.5 per cent in 2014-15.&nbsp;

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have been supporting the ongoing rally in the new year by pumping in sizeable money into the market. FPIs bought shares to the tune of Rs 581.43 crore while domestic institutional investors(DIIs) purchased shares worth a net Rs 243.13 crore last Friday, as per provisional data from the stock exchanges.

The 30-share Sensex continued its upward march to touch a new intra-day record high of 34,385.67, surpassing its previous high of 34,188.85 hits on January 5.

Stocks rose to fresh life-time closing high levels on optimism over earnings, growth and budget, with the benchmark BSE Sensex jumping by 199 points to end at record 34,352.79. The broader NSE Nifty for the first time closed above 10,600 mark after consistent buying by domestic and foreign investors. Gains in key IT, capital goods, healthcare and metal stocks helped both the key indices to scale new peaks. The 30-share Sensex continued its upward march to touch a new intra-day record high of 34,385.67, surpassing its previous high of 34,188.85 hits on January 5. But it lost some ground due to profit-booking and settled at a new closing peak of 34,352.79, up 198.94 points, or 0.58 per cent. The Sensex bettered its previous record of 34,153.85 touched on January 5. In last two days, the index has gained 360.47 points. Similarly, the broader 50-issue NSE Nifty hit a new intra-day high of 10,631.20, smashing its previous record of 10,566.10 hit on January 5. However, it shed some grounds to close at 10,623.60, still a new closing high, up by 64.75 points or 0.61 per cent. It broke the previous record of 10,558.85 reached on January 5. Traders said sentiment remained upbeat on continuous foreign fund inflows and unabated buying by investors amid expectations of encouraging quarterly earnings and hopes of the growth-oriented budget next month. Firm global cues with most other Asian markets rising with the corporate earnings season about to kick off amid more records on Wall Street, too positively impacted on the domestic bourses here. India's economic growth is estimated to slow down to 4- year low of 6.5 per cent this fiscal, the lowest under the NDA regime, mainly due to GST impact on manufacturing and subdued farm output. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 and 8 per cent in the preceding year. It was 7.5 per cent in 2014-15. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have been supporting the ongoing rally in the new year by pumping in sizeable money into the market. FPIs bought shares to the tune of Rs 581.43 crore while domestic institutional investors(DIIs) purchased shares worth a net Rs 243.13 crore last Friday, as per provisional data from the stock exchanges.

Sensex, Nifty scale new peaks as investors eye earnings, budget 

Remember Lisa? Apple&#39;s personal computer device came way before the much-loved Macbook of the 21st century.&nbsp;

According to reports, California&#39;s Computer History Museum has managed to recover the source code which will facilitate the release of Lisa operating system (OS).

The source code for the OS as well as the applications now rests with Apple for review.&nbsp;

Lisa OS will be made available for free this year once Apple clears it for a release.&nbsp;

Lisa was released in the year 1983 and managed to sell close to ten thousand units.&nbsp;

Lisa&#39;s apparent failure is often believed to be the reason behind Steve&#39;s Job&#39;s shift from the company after which he founded NeXT Computer.

The company was eventually overtaken by Apple.&nbsp;

Lisa OS will be made available for free this year once Apple clears it for a release.

Remember Lisa? Apple's personal computer device came way before the much-loved Macbook of the 21st century. According to reports, California's Computer History Museum has managed to recover the source code which will facilitate the release of Lisa operating system (OS). The source code for the OS as well as the applications now rests with Apple for review. Lisa OS will be made available for free this year once Apple clears it for a release. Lisa was released in the year 1983 and managed to sell close to ten thousand units. Lisa's apparent failure is often believed to be the reason behind Steve's Job's shift from the company after which he founded NeXT Computer. The company was eventually overtaken by Apple.

Apple likely to release Lisa OS for free this year

Just days after aviation minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/now-air-india-looks-for-rs-1500-crore-short-term-loans-22668">Raju said the government does not want </a>Air India to &quot;go the Kingfisher way&quot;, Vistara&#39;s CEO Leslie Thng said today that Tata Group and Singapore Airlines are &quot;open to bid&quot; for Air India.

Vistara Airlines which started operations in India two years ago is a joint venture between Tata group and Singapore Airlines.

&quot;The two promoters are open to evaluate bids for Air India. They keep an open mind,&quot; Vistara CEO&nbsp;Thng said.

Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid for the state-run airlines.

Civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju had said in Lok Sabha last week: &quot;We don&#39;t want Air India to go the Kingfisher (Airlines) way,&quot;&nbsp;adding,&quot;We want the Air India to serve the nation, to serve the people and fly high.&quot;

The minister had told India&#39;s lower house that a ministerial committee headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley is looking into the matter of disinvestment of Air India.

Niti Aayog&nbsp;has recommended complete privatisation of Air India which has been running at a loss for decades.&nbsp;

In 2012, the UPA government headed by PM Manmohan Singh had extended a bailout package of 30,000 crore as the national airways struggled to keep afloat.

The airline has a debt of more than Rs 52,000 crore.

Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid the state-run airlines.

Just days after aviation minister Raju said the government does not want Air India to "go the Kingfisher way", Vistara's CEO Leslie Thng said today that Tata Group and Singapore Airlines are "open to bid" for Air India. Vistara Airlines which started operations in India two years ago is a joint venture between Tata group and Singapore Airlines. "The two promoters are open to evaluate bids for Air India. They keep an open mind," Vistara CEO Thng said. Tata group chairman N. Chandrasekaran had said last year that his group was ready to bid for the state-run airlines. Civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju had said in Lok Sabha last week: "We don't want Air India to go the Kingfisher (Airlines) way," adding,"We want the Air India to serve the nation, to serve the people and fly high." The minister had told India's lower house that a ministerial committee headed by finance minister Arun Jaitley is looking into the matter of disinvestment of Air India. Niti Aayog has recommended complete privatisation of Air India which has been running at a loss for decades. In 2012, the UPA government headed by PM Manmohan Singh had extended a bailout package of 30,000 crore as the national airways struggled to keep afloat. The airline has a debt of more than Rs 52,000 crore.

Disinvestment on cards, Tata group and Singapore Airlines ready to bid for Air India

Shares marked record closing highs on Friday, posting their fifth consecutive weekly gain, as financials and metal stocks rose tracking global markets on strong economic data.

The benchmark BSE Sensex closed up 0.54 percent at 34,153.85, while the broader NSE Nifty ended 0.51 percent higher at 10,558.85.

Both indexes gained nearly 0.3 percent on the week.

The benchmark BSE Sensex closed up 0.54 percent at 34,153.85, while the broader NSE Nifty ended 0.51 percent higher at 10,558.85.

Shares marked record closing highs on Friday, posting their fifth consecutive weekly gain, as financials and metal stocks rose tracking global markets on strong economic data. The benchmark BSE Sensex closed up 0.54 percent at 34,153.85, while the broader NSE Nifty ended 0.51 percent higher at 10,558.85. Both indexes gained nearly 0.3 percent on the week.

Sensex closes at record high of 34153.85; Nifty reaches 10,558.85

The Union Budget <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/union-budget-to-be-presented-on-february-1-28623">set to be announced on February 1</a> is set to include special measures to strengthen women&#39;s safety.

The Railway Ministry is likely to announce 2018 as &quot;Railway Women&#39;s Safety Year&quot;.

The Railways intends to strengthen women&#39;s safety during train journey with a number of steps, sources said.

The budget is likely to have a detailed plan on women&#39;s safety, steps include installation of CCTV cameras in ladies coach especially in suburban rail service.

The budget is also likely to announce increasing the number of washrooms to at least two at each platform for women.

Finance minister Jaitley may also announce deployment of RPF women constables in ladies coach and in long routes

The budget is also likely to allocate&nbsp;of funds for women safety in Railways from Nirbhaya Women Safety Fund which is of Rs 1,000 crore.

The Budget Session of Parliament will commence from January 29th.&nbsp;President Ramnath Kovind will address the joint sitting of the two Houses on January 29 and the Economic Survey will be tabled on the same day.

The first phase of the session will be from January 29 to February 9.&nbsp;

The budget is likely to have a detailed plan on women's safety, steps include installation of CCTV cameras in ladies coach especially in suburban rail service.

The Union Budget set to be announced on February 1 is set to include special measures to strengthen women's safety. The Railway Ministry is likely to announce 2018 as "Railway Women's Safety Year". The Railways intends to strengthen women's safety during train journey with a number of steps, sources said. The budget is likely to have a detailed plan on women's safety, steps include installation of CCTV cameras in ladies coach especially in suburban rail service. The budget is also likely to announce increasing the number of washrooms to at least two at each platform for women. Finance minister Jaitley may also announce deployment of RPF women constables in ladies coach and in long routes The budget is also likely to allocate of funds for women safety in Railways from Nirbhaya Women Safety Fund which is of Rs 1,000 crore. The Budget Session of Parliament will commence from January 29th. President Ramnath Kovind will address the joint sitting of the two Houses on January 29 and the Economic Survey will be tabled on the same day. The first phase of the session will be from January 29 to February 9.

Budget likely to announce several features to strengthen women's safety in Railways

The benchmark Sensex reclaimed the 34,000-mark by surging over 100 points in early trade today on sustained buying by participants amid a firm trend in other Asian markets.

The 30-share index rose 100.48 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 34,070.12, with all sectoral indices led by PSU, consumer durables, auto and metal trading in the positive zone, rising by up to 0.57 per cent.

The gauge had gained 176.26 points in the previous session.

The NSE index Nifty too edged higher by 29.45 points, or 0.28 per cent, to 10,534.25.

Brokers said improved liquidity in the market following continuous foreign fund inflows and increased buying by domestic institutional investors after the government moved forward on its bank recapitalisation programme boosted trading sentiments.

The finance ministry yesterday sought Parliament&#39;s nod for the extra expenditure of Rs 80,000 crore towards recapitalisation of bad loans-saddled public sector banks through bonds.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 212.05 crore, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a Rs 325.24 crore yesterday, as per provisional exchange data.

Prominent gainers in the Sensex kitty were Yes Bank, Bharti Airtel, Adani Ports, SBI, Tata Steel, ITC Ltd, IndusInd Bank, Coal India, TCS, HDFC Ltd and Kotak Bank, gaining by up to 1.86 per cent.

The rupee appreciating to over 2-1/2 year high of 63.31 against the dollar (intra-day) and positive leads from other Asian bourses, led to a better trend in the domestic market here.

Expectations of encouraging third quarterly earnings from blue-chip companies, to be released next week too influenced sentiment. 
Among other Asian markets, Japan&#39;s Nikkei was trading higher by 0.18 per cent, while Hong Kong&#39;s Hang Seng rose 0.51 per cent in their early deals. The Shanghai Composite index too was up by 0.07 per cent.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average continued its record-setting run by ending 0.61 per cent higher in yesterday&#39;s trade.

The 30-share index rose 100.48 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 34,070.12, with all sectoral indices led by PSU, consumer durables, auto and metal trading in the positive zone, rising by up to 0.57 per cent.

The benchmark Sensex reclaimed the 34,000-mark by surging over 100 points in early trade today on sustained buying by participants amid a firm trend in other Asian markets. The 30-share index rose 100.48 points, or 0.29 per cent, to 34,070.12, with all sectoral indices led by PSU, consumer durables, auto and metal trading in the positive zone, rising by up to 0.57 per cent. The gauge had gained 176.26 points in the previous session. The NSE index Nifty too edged higher by 29.45 points, or 0.28 per cent, to 10,534.25. Brokers said improved liquidity in the market following continuous foreign fund inflows and increased buying by domestic institutional investors after the government moved forward on its bank recapitalisation programme boosted trading sentiments. The finance ministry yesterday sought Parliament's nod for the extra expenditure of Rs 80,000 crore towards recapitalisation of bad loans-saddled public sector banks through bonds. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 212.05 crore, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a Rs 325.24 crore yesterday, as per provisional exchange data. Prominent gainers in the Sensex kitty were Yes Bank, Bharti Airtel, Adani Ports, SBI, Tata Steel, ITC Ltd, IndusInd Bank, Coal India, TCS, HDFC Ltd and Kotak Bank, gaining by up to 1.86 per cent. The rupee appreciating to over 2-1/2 year high of 63.31 against the dollar (intra-day) and positive leads from other Asian bourses, led to a better trend in the domestic market here. Expectations of encouraging third quarterly earnings from blue-chip companies, to be released next week too influenced sentiment. Among other Asian markets, Japan's Nikkei was trading higher by 0.18 per cent, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng rose 0.51 per cent in their early deals. The Shanghai Composite index too was up by 0.07 per cent. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average continued its record-setting run by ending 0.61 per cent higher in yesterday's trade.

Sensex builds on gains, regains 34,000 mark in early trade

The BSE Sensex on Friday soared to the life-time high of 34,175.21 and the NSE Nifty scaled the historic 10,562.80 mark in late morning trade as banking, metal and realty stocks advanced following continuous foreign fund inflows and increased buying by domestic institutional investors.

The 30-share Sensex spurted 205 points, or 0.60 per cent, to all-time high of 34,175.21 points, breaching its previous record high (intra-day) of 34,137.97 scaled on December 27.

The gauge had gained 176.26 points in the previous session.

Sentiment got a lift following an improvement in liquidity in the market on sustained inflows by foreign funds amid the government moving forward on its bank recapitalisation programme, brokers said.

The finance ministry yesterday sought Parliament&#39;s nod for extra expenditure of Rs 80,000 crore towards recapitalisation of bad loans-saddled public sector banks through bonds.

Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 212.05 crore, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a Rs 325.24 crore on Thursday, as per provisional exchange data.

Banking behemoth SBI rallied 0.83 per cent while Punjab National Bank gained 1.50 per cent. Bank of Baroda also gained 0.67 per cent. Private peers ICICI Bank, Yes Bank, IndusInd Bank, HDFC Bank and Kotak Bank too rose by up to 3.15 per cent.

All the sectoral indices led by metal, consumer durables and bank, trading in the positive zone with gains of up to 1.41 per cent.

The 50-share Nifty also hit a new high of 10,562.80 by soaring 58 points, or 0.54 per cent. It also cracked previous record (intra-day) of 10,552.40 points reached on December 27.

Globally, in the Asian region, Japan&#39;s Nikkei rose 0.55 per cent, Hong Kong&#39;s Hang gained 0.18 per cent, while China&#39;s Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.23 per cent in their early deals.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average continued its record-setting run by ending 0.61 per cent higher in yesterday&#39;s trade.

Sentiment got a lift following an improvement in liquidity in the market on sustained inflows by foreign funds.

The BSE Sensex on Friday soared to the life-time high of 34,175.21 and the NSE Nifty scaled the historic 10,562.80 mark in late morning trade as banking, metal and realty stocks advanced following continuous foreign fund inflows and increased buying by domestic institutional investors. The 30-share Sensex spurted 205 points, or 0.60 per cent, to all-time high of 34,175.21 points, breaching its previous record high (intra-day) of 34,137.97 scaled on December 27. The gauge had gained 176.26 points in the previous session. Sentiment got a lift following an improvement in liquidity in the market on sustained inflows by foreign funds amid the government moving forward on its bank recapitalisation programme, brokers said. The finance ministry yesterday sought Parliament's nod for extra expenditure of Rs 80,000 crore towards recapitalisation of bad loans-saddled public sector banks through bonds. Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) bought shares worth a net of Rs 212.05 crore, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) made purchases worth a Rs 325.24 crore on Thursday, as per provisional exchange data. Banking behemoth SBI rallied 0.83 per cent while Punjab National Bank gained 1.50 per cent. Bank of Baroda also gained 0.67 per cent. Private peers ICICI Bank, Yes Bank, IndusInd Bank, HDFC Bank and Kotak Bank too rose by up to 3.15 per cent. All the sectoral indices led by metal, consumer durables and bank, trading in the positive zone with gains of up to 1.41 per cent. The 50-share Nifty also hit a new high of 10,562.80 by soaring 58 points, or 0.54 per cent. It also cracked previous record (intra-day) of 10,552.40 points reached on December 27. Globally, in the Asian region, Japan's Nikkei rose 0.55 per cent, Hong Kong's Hang gained 0.18 per cent, while China's Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.23 per cent in their early deals. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average continued its record-setting run by ending 0.61 per cent higher in yesterday's trade.

Sensex, Nifty hit new record high on fund inflows

The economic growth is expected to slow to a four-year low of 6.5 per cent in 2017-18, the lowest under the Modi-led government, mainly due to poor performance of agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 and 8 per cent in the preceding year. It was 7.5 per cent in 2014-15.

The Narendra Modi-led NDA government had assumed office in May 2014.

&quot;The growth in GDP during 2017-18 is estimated at 6.5 per cent as compared to the growth rate of 7.1 per cent in 2016- 17,&quot; said the Central Statistics Office (CSO) while announcing the first advance estimates of National Income 2017-18.

The growth of real Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2017-18 is anticipated at 6.1 per cent as against 6.6 per cent in the previous year.

Economic activities were affected by demonetisation announced on November 8, 2016 and subsequent implementation of a new indirect tax regime (GST) from July 1 in the current financial year.

As per the CSO data, the expansion in activities in &#39;agriculture, forestry and fishing&#39; is likely to slow to 2.1 per cent in the current fiscal from 4.9 per cent in the preceding year.

The growth in manufacturing sector too is expected to decelerate to 4.6 per cent this fiscal, down from 7.9 per cent in 2016-17.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 and 8 per cent in the preceding year. It was 7.5 per cent in 2014-15.

The economic growth is expected to slow to a four-year low of 6.5 per cent in 2017-18, the lowest under the Modi-led government, mainly due to poor performance of agriculture and manufacturing sectors. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 and 8 per cent in the preceding year. It was 7.5 per cent in 2014-15. The Narendra Modi-led NDA government had assumed office in May 2014. "The growth in GDP during 2017-18 is estimated at 6.5 per cent as compared to the growth rate of 7.1 per cent in 2016- 17," said the Central Statistics Office (CSO) while announcing the first advance estimates of National Income 2017-18. The growth of real Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2017-18 is anticipated at 6.1 per cent as against 6.6 per cent in the previous year. Economic activities were affected by demonetisation announced on November 8, 2016 and subsequent implementation of a new indirect tax regime (GST) from July 1 in the current financial year. As per the CSO data, the expansion in activities in 'agriculture, forestry and fishing' is likely to slow to 2.1 per cent in the current fiscal from 4.9 per cent in the preceding year. The growth in manufacturing sector too is expected to decelerate to 4.6 per cent this fiscal, down from 7.9 per cent in 2016-17.

India's GDP growth to slow to four-year low of 6.5% in 2017-18