18, Jun 2026
Fed Keeps Rates Unchanged, but Split Projections Highlight Uncertainty Over Policy Path
By:- Ajitabh Bharti, Executive Director and Co-founder of CapitalXB
The Federal Reserve held rates steady, but the latest dot plot reveals a more complex internal outlook. With nine members projecting a 25 bps hike and six expecting a 50 bps increase by end-2026, the committee appears notably divided on the policy path ahead. Attention, however, centered on the new Fed Governor. While his decision to refrain from offering personal projections was anticipated, it also represented a key opportunity to reinforce credibility by clearly reaffirming the Fed’s commitment to price stability.Markets were looking for stronger conviction. The immediate reaction in short-term U.S. yields underscores lingering skepticism toward the new leadership.
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- By Neel Achary
18, Jun 2026
Government Allocates INR 18,907 Crore for 26,474 km Rural Road Network in FY27
New Delhi, June 18: The Government of India has earmarked ₹18,907 crore for the construction of 26,474 kilometres of rural roads during the financial year 2026–27, aimed at improving connectivity and strengthening rural infrastructure across the country.
Pic Credit: Pexel
The allocation is expected to support continued expansion of all-weather road networks in rural and remote areas, facilitating better access to markets, healthcare, education, and essential public services for rural populations.
Officials said the initiative will play a key role in enhancing last-mile connectivity and supporting inclusive development by linking villages with nearby towns and economic centres. The programme is also expected to generate employment opportunities in construction and allied sectors.
The rural road development programme has been a key focus area of the government’s infrastructure push, with emphasis on improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting economic activity in rural regions.
Experts note that improved rural road infrastructure is likely to have a multiplier effect on agricultural supply chains, rural trade, and overall socio-economic development.
The construction targets for FY27 continue the government’s broader effort to expand and upgrade rural connectivity across states and union territories.
18, Jun 2026
Kharif Sowing in India Crosses 84 Lakh Hectares, Early Monsoon Progress Supports Agriculture
New Delhi, June 18: The total area sown under India’s ongoing kharif season has crossed 84 lakh hectares so far, indicating steady progress in early sowing operations across key agricultural regions of the country.
Pic Credit: Pexel
According to preliminary agricultural data, sowing activity has picked up momentum with the onset of the monsoon season, supporting timely cultivation of major kharif crops. Farmers across several states have begun planting operations, aided by improving rainfall conditions in many regions.
Officials said the early progress in sowing is an important indicator of the overall agricultural outlook for the season, as kharif crops depend heavily on monsoon rainfall patterns and distribution.
The kharif season typically includes major crops such as rice, maize, cotton, pulses, and oilseeds, which form a significant part of India’s agricultural output and rural economy.
Agricultural experts note that consistent rainfall distribution in the coming weeks will be crucial for sustaining sowing momentum and ensuring healthy crop development across different states.
The data reflects initial progress in the current season, with further updates expected as sowing activity continues across the country.
18, Jun 2026
India–UK Trade Agreement to Be Operational from July 15, Says PM Modi, Calling It a ‘Historic Milestone’
New Delhi, June 18: The India–UK trade agreement will come into effect from July 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Wednesday, describing it as a “historic milestone” in the economic partnership between the two countries.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia
The operationalisation of the agreement is expected to mark a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations, while opening new opportunities for businesses, exporters, and industries on both sides.
According to officials, the agreement is designed to enhance market access, streamline trade processes, and deepen cooperation in key sectors including goods, services, manufacturing, technology, and innovation-driven industries. It is also expected to support supply chain integration and encourage greater economic collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.
Prime Minister Modi said the agreement reflects the growing trust and shared ambition between India and the UK to build a stronger, future-oriented economic partnership. He noted that the pact will contribute to expanding trade opportunities and fostering long-term economic growth.
Officials further stated that the implementation of the agreement will provide a structured framework for boosting bilateral trade flows and improving ease of doing business between the two economies.
The development is being viewed as a major milestone in India’s expanding global trade engagements, reinforcing its position as a key player in international economic partnerships.
18, Jun 2026
MENA Fintech Association and FINTECH.TV Forge Strategic Global Media Alliance to Amplify Fintech Leadership, Shape Industry Dialogue, and Connect Innovation Across Global Markets
Dubai, UAE – June 18 – The MENA Fintech Association (MFTA), the leading not-for-profit fintech ecosystem enabler and industry advocacy platform across the Middle East and Africa, announced a strategic collaboration with Fintech.TV, the premier global media platform dedicated to financial innovation, capital markets, fintech, digital assets, and the future of finance.
The partnership will establish a dedicated series of high-impact on-air discussions, executive interviews, thought leadership programs, and ecosystem-focused broadcasts featuring global policymakers, regulators, financial institutions, fintech founders, investors, technology innovators, and industry leaders.
Powered by the MENA Fintech Association and amplified through Fintech.TV’s international media reach, the initiative aims to showcase the rapid evolution of the UAE and broader MENA fintech landscape while facilitating meaningful dialogue around the future of financial services, innovation, regulation, and digital transformation.
“The future of fintech will be shaped by those who lead global conversations, not simply participate in them. Through the MENA Fintech Association’s partnership with FINTECH.TV, we are creating a powerful international platform that positions the MENA region at the center of financial innovation, policy dialogue, and industry leadership – connecting regional excellence with global influence.”
– Nameer Khan, Chairman, MENA Fintech Association
The MENA region is rapidly becoming a global hub for fintech innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. At FINTECH.TV, we are excited to partner with the MENA Fintech Association to spotlight the leaders and ideas transforming the industry. By combining MFTA’s ecosystem leadership with FINTECH.TV’s international media platform, we will deliver impactful conversations, amplify regional innovation, and connect the MENA fintech community with audiences around the world.
Troy McGuire Co-Founder and Global Head of Content and Operations, FINTECH.TV
18, Jun 2026
PM Modi–Trump Meeting at G7 Focuses on Trade, West Asia and Strengthening India–US Ties
New Delhi, June 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions on key global and bilateral issues on the sidelines of the G7 Summit, focusing on West Asia developments, progress on the India–US trade agreement, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Pic Credit: https://x.com/PMOIndia
PM @narendramodi met US President @realDonaldTrump in Evian and reviewed progress in India-US cooperation across sectors such as energy, trade, defence, technology and people-to-people ties.
The two leaders also exchanged views on developments in West Asia. The Prime Minister… pic.twitter.com/CVZLtgcmDL
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 17, 2026
The MEA said the meeting covered strategic, economic and geopolitical priorities of mutual interest, with both leaders reviewing ways to further strengthen trade, investment, defence, energy and technology partnerships between India and the United States.
The discussions also included the situation in West Asia, with emphasis on regional stability and its global economic impact. Both sides expressed interest in deepening cooperation to support long-term strategic and economic alignment.
Following the meeting, business leaders and members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the engagement, saying it could help further boost confidence in India–US economic and strategic relations.
Officials noted that the interaction reflects continued efforts to expand the comprehensive global strategic partnership between the two countries.
18, Jun 2026
Indian Markets Trade Flat in Early Session Amid Mixed Global Cues
Mumbai, June 18: Indian benchmark equity indices traded flat in early trading on Thursday as investors remained cautious amid mixed signals from global markets.
The domestic market opened on a subdued note, with buying in select sectors offset by weakness in others. Investors largely adopted a wait-and-watch approach while tracking developments in international markets and key economic indicators.
Market sentiment remained influenced by global uncertainty, with traders closely monitoring movements across Asian and international markets. Sector-specific activity was seen in banking, information technology, and automobile stocks, while broader market participation remained moderate during the opening session.
Analysts said mixed global cues and investor caution contributed to the range-bound movement in early trade. Despite the muted start, domestic equities continued to find support from steady investor participation and resilient economic fundamentals.
The benchmark indices fluctuated within a narrow range during the initial hours of trading as market participants awaited fresh triggers for directional movement.
Trading activity is expected to remain focused on global developments, corporate updates, and economic data releases that could influence investor sentiment in the coming sessions.
18, Jun 2026
Kothari Group Forays into Retail Jewellery with the Launch of Lab Grown Diamond Brand Keemti Jewels
Mumbai, June 18: After over 35 years of building a global legacy in jewellery manufacturing and exports, the Kothari Group has officially entered India’s retail jewellery market with the launch of Keemti Jewels, a contemporary lab grown diamond jewellery brand founded by Armaan Sunil Kothari and designed for a new generation of Indian consumers.
Backed by entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath, along with entrepreneur-investor Kavin Shah, Keemti brings together the Kothari Group‘s deep-rooted expertise in jewellery manufacturing with a modern, consumer-first vision for the future of lab grown jewellery.
Marking its retail debut, Keemti has launched its first flagship store in Andheri, Mumbai.
The store was officially inaugurated by Smt. Amruta Fadnavis, former banker, singer and social activist, and entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath in the presence of Armaan Kothari, Founder & MD, Keemti, Sunil Kothari, Chairman, Keemti, and entrepreneur-investor Kavin Shah. The launch event was attended by prominent guests from the entertainment, business, and social circles, including Jackie Shroff, Stebin Ben, Seema Singh, and Varun Sharma. Located on Link Road near Infiniti Mall, within one of the city’s prominent jewellery and lifestyle hubs, the store introduces consumers to the brand’s fresh perspective on modern fine jewellery and accessible luxury.
At a time when consumer preferences are rapidly shifting toward conscious luxury, transparency, and self-purchase behaviour, Keemti aims to redefine how modern Indian consumers engage with diamonds. The brand moves away from traditional narratives of inheritance and occasion-led gifting, instead positioning jewellery as a symbol of personal ambition, individuality, and self-earned success.
Designed as a contemporary luxury destination, the Keemti flagship store offers an immersive retail experience that goes beyond traditional jewellery shopping. The space showcases the brand’s signature collections across everyday wear, occasion-led jewellery, statement designs, and modern essentials, allowing consumers to explore a wide range of lab grown diamond pieces under one roof. Thoughtfully designed interiors, personalised consultations, private viewing experiences, and dedicated lounge areas further enhance the customer journey, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment for discovery, celebration, and self-expression.
While Keemti’s flagship presence begins in Mumbai, the brand is also focused on catering to the evolving aspirations of consumers across Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets in India through its omnichannel approach. Recognising the growing demand for contemporary, accessible, and value-driven fine jewellery beyond metro cities, Keemti aims to make lab grown diamond jewellery more approachable for a wider new-age consumer base across the country. In addition to its retail presence, Keemti is available through its website and leading e-commerce marketplaces, including Amazon, enabling consumers across India to seamlessly access and purchase its collections.
What sets Keemti apart within the rapidly growing lab grown diamond category is not only its consumer-first positioning, but also the structural advantage of the Kothari Group’s long-standing manufacturing expertise across the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. By owning its manufacturing process, the brand is able to deliver aspirational design, trusted quality, and stronger value for today’s consumers.
Speaking about the launch, Sunil Kothari, Chairman, Keemti, said: “For decades, we have built our legacy on craftsmanship, trust, and a deep understanding of the global jewellery industry. With Keemti, we saw an opportunity to build a brand that reflects where the future of fine jewellery is headed. The growing shift toward lab grown diamonds is not just a trend, it represents a larger evolution in consumer mindset toward conscious luxury, accessibility, and modern design.
Keemti combines the strength of our manufacturing expertise with a contemporary consumer-focused approach, allowing us to create fine jewellery that is both aspirational and relevant for today’s market. I see Keemti as a long-term growth story, and we are committed to expanding our retail and omnichannel presence across key markets in India while continuing to strengthen consumer trust in the lab grown diamond category.”
Sharing his vision for the brand, Armaan Kothari, Founder & MD, Keemti, added: “At Keemti, we believe the next generation of luxury brands will be built around consumers, not just products. Keemti was created for a new-age audience that seeks transparency, relevance, and self-expression in everything they buy. Our ambition is to make fine jewellery feel more contemporary, more accessible, and more aligned with evolving consumer values.
With our expansion plans, we are focused on taking the Keemti experience to newer markets across India and building a brand ecosystem that seamlessly blends retail, digital, and community-led engagement.”
With an expanding omnichannel presence across retail stores, e-commerce, and marketplaces, Keemti aims to make lab grown diamond jewellery a more contemporary, accessible, and smart choice for a new generation of consumers that values meaning, versatility, and conscious luxury in equal measure.
18, Jun 2026
Tinaa Dattaa Is Back with Her Most Layered Role Yet in Hungama OTT’s ‘Personal Trainer 2’
Hungama OTT is all set to raise the temperature with its hit original series Personal Trainer 2, releasing on 18th June 2026. Featuring Tinaa Dattaa in a compelling new role as Neha Malhotra, and also starring Akanksha Puri, Poonam Pandey and Rrahul Sudhir in pivotal roles, the series returns to the gleaming, high-stakes world of Mumbai’s most elite gym, where ambition, desire and dangerous power games play out behind polished mirrors and sculpted bodies.
Personal Trainer 2 unfolds at one of Mumbai’s most exclusive fitness spaces, where celebrities, influencers and the city’s wealthy elite come to sweat in secrecy. But beneath the surface of this world of ambition lies a far darker arena, where seduction becomes strategy, betrayal lurks around every corner and desire pushes boundaries beyond control. Loyalties shift, alliances crack and the stakes grow dangerously high. In this world, true strength has nothing to do with muscle, it is about manipulation, survival and knowing exactly when to strike.
Sharing her excitement about the role, Tinaa Dattaa says, “In my real life, I have always been into fitness, whether it’s yoga, gym workouts or Pilates. So when I heard about Neha Malhotra, I instantly connected with her. But she is far more than just a fitness enthusiast, she is a woman of many faces and layers, and what I love most is how those layers slowly unravel as the series progresses. Audiences will get to see a side of me they have simply not seen before. Personally, I was really impressed with the story of Season 1 and when the makers approached me for Season 2, I didn’t take a second to say yes. The way my character evolves throughout the show is truly amazing. Working with Akanksha Puri was wonderful, she is also very passionate about fitness and we shared many fitness tips on set. It was also great working with Rrahul Sudhir, he is a fantastic actor and brought a lot of depth to our scenes together. I’m sure audiences will love Personal Trainer 2 as well.”
Personal Trainer 2 premieres on Hungama OTT from 18th June 2026.
18, Jun 2026
Accrelist Appoints Derek Cheong as Chief Executive Officer
Group sharpens focus on aesthetics retail under the CEO’s first initiative, a proposed entry into the Xiamen aesthetic clinic market
SINGAPORE, June 18 - Accrelist Ltd. (“Accrelist” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, collectively the “Group”), listed on the Catalist Board of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “SGX-ST”), today announced the appointment of Mr Derek Cheong Sheng Ze (“Mr Cheong”) as Chief Executive Officer of the Company, with effect from 16 June 2026.
The announcement pursuant to Rule 704(6) of the Catalist Rules, in relation to the appointment of Mr Cheong has been separately announced on the SGXNET.
About Mr Cheong
Mr Cheong joins Accrelist after a career spent building consumer-facing businesses in Malaysia. Most recently, in his role as Chief Strategy Officer of Thong World Sdn. Bhd, he is advising the organization on growth and expansion plans.
Before that, he served as Managing Director of Collab Working Lifestyle Sdn. Bhd., the master franchisee of Xing Fu Tang in Malaysia, where he managed business strategy and financial operations, and oversaw the build-out of the franchise network. He previously sat on the board of Supreme Falcon Sdn. Bhd., which operates in the healthcare sector, and held the role of Project Director at My Vacation Travel Sdn. Bhd., an event management business, giving him exposure to healthcare-adjacent services and experiential consumer brands.
Mr Cheong holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom.
First Initiative: Entry into the Xiamen Aesthetic Clinic Market
The Company has entered into a strategic collaboration through a non-binding term sheet with Mr Zhou, Zan (the “Vendor”) under which Accrelist proposes to acquire a 51% interest in a target company (“Target Company”) to be incorporated by the Vendor in the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”), and the Target Company shall be establishing and/or acquiring aesthetic business in the PRC (including aesthetics businesses in which the Vendor currently has a controlling interest). The Group will license its A.M Aesthetics brand to the Target Company on a royalty-free basis, allowing the Xiamen clinics to operate under the Group’s flagship aesthetics brand.
As his first initiative, Mr Cheong will be driving this collaboration further, giving the Group a stronger positioning in the Greater China aesthetics market.
The rationale is twofold. First, the proposed acquisition enhances Accrelist’s foothold in the PRC, one of the largest aesthetics markets in the world, at a valuation anchored to performance, with multi-year visibility on the underlying business before the Group is committed to completion. Second, the licensing arrangement allows the A.M Aesthetics brand to be built in the PRC market in advance of completion, at no cost to the Group.
A separate announcement on the entry into a non-binding term sheet in relation to the proposed acquisition has been released on SGXNet and shareholders are advised to refer to that announcement for further details.
Sharpening Focus on Aesthetics Retail
Under Mr Cheong’s leadership, the Group will continue growing its A.M Aesthetics business, deepening its presence in existing markets and expanding into new ones. The aesthetics sector continues to be one of the fastest-growing consumer segments in the region, and the Group sees significant headroom to scale a differentiated, premium brand across Southeast Asia and Greater China.
Consistent with this direction, the Group will keep its broader portfolio under review to ensure that capital and management resources are channelled where they generate most value for shareholders. This includes its 52.5% controlling stake in Catalist-listed Jubilee Industries Holdings Ltd. (SGX: NHD) and its 27.34% strategic stake in Bursa Malaysia-listed MClean Technologies Berhad (KL: MCLEAN), each of which the Group will continue to manage and evaluate as part of its overall capital allocation. Any material developments will be communicated through the appropriate market announcements in due course, in accordance with the Catalist Rules and the rules of any other relevant exchange.
Mr Cheong, Chief Executive Officer of Accrelist, said: “It is a privilege to take on this role at a moment when Accrelist is strengthening its position in aesthetics retail. The opportunity in this sector across the region is enormous, and our A.M Aesthetics brand is a competitive platform for scale. The Xiamen collaboration is a deliberate first step: a derisked, strategic venture in a high-growth market, with a clear runway to scale. I look forward to working with Dato’ Terence, the Board and the wider team to deliver value for our shareholders.”
