Thursday, March 12
Top business schools in India, including IIMs and ISB, are experiencing a surge in MBA applications, particularly from mid-career professionals seeking leadership roles. This increase is fueled by the need to adapt to technological disruptions and gain strategic skills. Institutions are also reporting a significant rise in female applicants and greater industry diversity among participants.
Donald Trump and Ursula von der Leyen announced a trade deal between the US and EU, aiming to resolve a prolonged transatlantic trade dispute. Trump and Ursula von der Leyen met in Scotland for crucial discussions, seeking to resolve the prolonged transatlantic trade dispute, with negotiations reaching their final stages.
The newly signed India-UK free trade agreement, CETA, will grant British companies national treatment, enabling them to deliver services in India without establishing a local base. The agreement covers various sectors, including telecom and financial services, while safeguarding sensitive Indian sectors like dairy and rice.
Donald Trump claims Japan will invest $550 billion in the US under a new trade framework, though details remain under negotiation. Trump suggests the US would receive 90% of profits from these investments, calling it a "signing bonus" linked to tariff reductions.
India's IPO market is set for a busy week, with 14 companies launching IPOs to raise over Rs 7,000 crore. NSDL's Rs 4,012 crore mainboard IPO leads the pack, followed by Aditya Infotech and Laxmi India Finance. Several SME IPOs and listings are also scheduled, with analysts predicting increased IPO momentum in 2025 due to positive market conditions.
Russia has initiated direct commercial flights between Moscow and Pyongyang, marking a significant step in strengthening ties with North Korea. The inaugural Nordwind Airlines flight departed Moscow on Sunday, with plans for monthly service.
Kotak Mahindra Bank's consolidated net profit witnessed a significant drop in the June quarter, reaching Rs 4,472 crore due to the absence of a one-time gain and margin pressures. While net interest income increased, the net interest margin contracted, impacting overall profitability. Provisions more than doubled, primarily due to stress in the microfinance and retail commercial vehicle segments.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal confirmed that India's FTA with Oman is nearing finalization, while negotiations with the EU, US, Peru, and Chile are advancing rapidly. India recently concluded trade agreements with Mauritius, Australia, and the EFTA bloc, and aims to boost bilateral trade with the UK to $120 billion by 2030.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that sustaining economic growth amidst global uncertainties is India's top priority, with increased public capital expenditure as a key driver. The government aims for a leadership role globally, balancing economic ambitions with fiscal responsibility.
An Indian firm, Ideal Detonators, confirmed exporting $1.4 million worth of HMX to Russia, asserting it was for civilian use and compliant with Indian regulations. Despite HMX's military applications, the company insists the shipment was for industrial purposes.
