Thursday, March 12
ICICI Bank's shares surged over 2.5% following a robust Q1 performance, with consolidated net profit rising by 15.9%. The bank reported a net profit of Rs 13,558 crore, driven by a 10.6% growth in core net interest income and 12% domestic loan growth. This positive momentum contributed to the equity markets' recovery, boosting the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty.
Assam's dairy sector receives a boost with a new government subsidy of Rs 5 per litre for dairy farmers, launched by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative aims to encourage higher milk production, improve farmer earnings, and stimulate a rural dairy revolution.
Rosneft has condemned the EU's sanctions on Nayara Energy, its Indian affiliate, deeming them unjustified and a threat to India's energy security. Rosneft argues the sanctions are extraterritorial, politically motivated, and disregard international law.
The Trump administration has announced new flight restrictions from Mexico, potentially ending the Delta-Aeromexico partnership in response to Mexico's limits on flights into Mexico City. Transport Secretary Sean Duffy cited unfair advantages for Mexican carriers due to the redirection of flights to Felipe Angeles International Airport.
Sona Comstar is partnering with Jinnaite Machinery Co Ltd in a $20 million joint venture to manufacture driveline systems and components for electric vehicles in China. Sona Comstar will hold a 60% stake, aiming to expand its Asian footprint and capitalize on China's dominant EV market. Operations are slated to begin in the second half of FY26.
India's electronics exports soared by 47% in Q1 FY26, reaching $12.41 billion, driven by strong demand from the US, UAE, and China. Ready-made garment exports also increased, with the US remaining the top market. Marine exports saw significant growth, fueled by product diversification and improved logistics. Automobile exports also contributed to India's overall export momentum.
India has emerged as a global leader in real-time digital payments, primarily driven by the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Launched in 2016, UPI has revolutionized India's payment ecosystem, processing over 18 billion transactions monthly and accounting for 85% of the country's digital payments.
India is poised to produce its first commercial-scale, domestically manufactured semiconductor chip this year, marking a significant step in its semiconductor ambitions. IIT students have designed 20 chipsets, with eight already in the final design stage. The government's support through the India Semiconductor Mission and advancements in AI further bolster India's technological progress.
India's petroleum regulator, PNGRB, has mandated a uniform rate for piped natural gas (PNG) for all households, regardless of consumption. This directive addresses concerns that tiered pricing systems may encourage misuse of subsidized gas by commercial entities misclassified as domestic consumers.
Honda aims to capture 30% of India's two-wheeler market by 2030, recognizing the country's crucial role in its global growth strategy. The company sees significant potential in targeting female consumers, who currently represent only 10% of sales. While optimistic about electric vehicles, Honda acknowledges infrastructure challenges and plans a dedicated EV production plant in India by 2028.
