23, Jun 2026
India’s Economic Growth Remains Robust in June Despite Slight Moderation, PMI at 57.4
New Delhi, June 23: India’s economic activity continued to expand at a healthy pace in June, even as growth showed a marginal slowdown compared to previous months, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data, which stood at 57.4.
The reading, well above the neutral mark of 50, indicates sustained expansion across key sectors, reflecting resilience in both manufacturing and services. The data points to continued strength in demand conditions, steady business activity, and overall economic stability despite global headwinds.
In the manufacturing sector, firms reported stable output levels supported by consistent domestic demand and improved supply conditions. The services sector also remained a key growth driver, benefiting from strong client activity, new business inflows, and ongoing recovery in consumption-related services.
Employment trends remained positive, with companies continuing to hire in response to rising workloads. Input costs and output prices showed mixed trends, but overall inflationary pressures remained manageable within the broader economic context.
Experts noted that while the slight moderation in PMI suggests a cooling from earlier highs, the index continues to signal strong expansion. They added that India’s growth remains supported by resilient domestic consumption, government spending, and improving business confidence.
Economists further highlighted that external uncertainties, including global demand fluctuations and geopolitical risks, may influence short-term momentum. However, India’s domestic-driven growth model is expected to provide a buffer against external shocks.
Overall, the June PMI data underscores the strength and stability of India’s economy, reinforcing expectations of sustained growth in the coming months, supported by strong fundamentals and broad-based sectoral performance.
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- By Neel Achary
23, Jun 2026
Agriculture, Technology Emerge as Pillars of India’s Growth Story
June 23: India’s future economic growth will be significantly driven by the combined strength of agriculture and technology, according to industry leaders and policymakers speaking at the Summer Davos forum.
Experts highlighted that India’s large agricultural base, coupled with rapid advancements in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, innovation, and infrastructure, is creating new opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth. They noted that technology is increasingly transforming the agricultural sector through improved productivity, better market access, data-driven decision-making, and enhanced supply chain efficiency.
Speakers emphasized that India is well-positioned to emerge as a global growth engine due to its young workforce, expanding digital ecosystem, and ongoing economic reforms. The integration of technology across sectors, particularly in agriculture, is expected to boost rural incomes, strengthen food security, and support long-term economic development.
The discussions also underscored the importance of continued investment in innovation, digital infrastructure, skill development, and sustainable agricultural practices to unlock India’s full growth potential.
Experts at the forum expressed confidence that the synergy between agriculture and technology will play a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic future and reinforcing its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies.
23, Jun 2026
Sensex, Nifty Open Muted as Easing West Asia Tensions Support Market Sentiment
Mumbai, June 23: Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, opened on a subdued note on Tuesday as investors adopted a cautious approach despite signs of easing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
The easing of tensions in the region has helped improve global market sentiment and reduced concerns over potential disruptions to crude oil supplies. This development provided some support to investor confidence, although market participants remained focused on broader economic and corporate factors.
Analysts noted that lower geopolitical risks could help stabilize energy prices and support equity markets. However, uncertainty surrounding global economic growth, interest rate outlooks, and upcoming economic data continued to keep investors cautious.
In early trade, sectoral movements remained mixed as investors assessed domestic and international developments. Market participants are also closely monitoring corporate announcements, foreign fund flows, and global market trends for further direction.
Experts believe that while easing tensions in West Asia have brought some relief to financial markets, volatility may persist in the near term as investors navigate evolving global and domestic factors.
Overall, Indian markets began the day on a steady footing, balancing positive geopolitical developments with caution over broader economic uncertainties.
23, Jun 2026
Wood Mackenzie cuts Brent forecast to Dollar 78/bbl for 2027 as US-Iran MoU targets staged Strait of Hormuz reopening
LONDON/HOUSTON/SINGAPORE, June 23: The oil price bubble has burst. Wood Mackenzie forecasts Brent averaging $78 a barrel in 2027 and potentially easing to $70/bbl by Q4 2027, following a US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding that has shifted market sentiment away from a prolonged Strait of Hormuz closure.
The pressure to reach an agreement was acute. On 15 June, President Donald Trump acknowledged that US reserves would run out “in about four weeks.” Inventories at the Cushing hub had fallen close to the operational floor. Those fundamentals, as much as diplomacy, brought both sides to the table.
The Memorandum of Understanding, signed last week, gives both parties 60 days to negotiate a comprehensive agreement. Both have accepted in principle that the Strait should be reopened. But the gap between acceptance and execution remains wide. Israel’s apparent rejection of restrictions on its ongoing military action in Lebanon adds further uncertainty. Negotiations may need to be extended. They could fail.
Brent averaged $92/bbl over the first half of 2026, buoyed by the elevated prices of March through May. Investor sentiment moved faster than the oil itself. In the four weeks to 16 June, positioning for higher Brent prices fell by around 80% from a five-year high. Wood Mackenzie’s vessel tracking data shows ships of all categories transiting the Strait reached a peak of 35 on 18 June, up from the low teens per day — but still well short of pre-war levels.
The revised forecasts of $78/bbl in 2027, and a potential $70/bbl by Q4 2027, assume Strait transit flows normalise during August. Alternating periods of elevated and depressed prices are likely as demand recovery, inventory rebuilding, and production ramp-up remain out of sync. Recovery will take months. The supply shock removed more than 11 million barrels per day of crude from global markets. Wood Mackenzie projects 70% of shut-in volumes could return within three months of the Strait reopening, and 90% within six months. The final one million barrels per day will take considerably longer.
Refining margins tell the same story: better but not recovered. Jet crack spreads remain at almost double pre-war levels despite easing progressively over the past two months.
“A prolonged closure would have pushed Brent well above $150 a barrel,” adds Alan Gelder, Senior Vice President, Macro Oils, Wood Mackenzie. “The MoU changed that trajectory. But the full value chain, from wellhead through to Gulf Cooperation Council ports, will take the better part of a year to fully recover. Jet crack spreads running at almost double pre-war levels are the clearest signal that this market has not yet normalised. Getting the barrels back is a different challenge from reaching a deal.”
23, Jun 2026
BPL Medical Hosts Symbiosis 2026, Bringing Strategic Partners Under One Roof
India, June 23: BPL Medical Technologies, India’s leading medical equipment brand with a rich 50-year legacy under the BPL Group, hosted Symbiosis 2026 at its 2-acre manufacturing facility in Bengaluru, established in 2024, bringing together key strategic partners and suppliers. The annual platform was designed to strengthen industry engagement, encourage dialogue and foster closer alignment across the healthcare manufacturing value chain.
The event brought together stakeholders from manufacturing, sourcing, engineering, quality and supply chain functions to discuss industry trends, operational priorities and opportunities emerging within India’s healthcare technology sector. Conversations throughout the day focused on the growing need for agility, reliability and innovation as manufacturers work to meet the changing requirements of healthcare providers and patients.
Speaking about the same, Dr. Shravan Subramanyam, Managing Director of BPL Medical Technologies, said, “Healthcare manufacturing today demands greater agility, consistency and collaboration than ever before. The strength of any organisation lies not just in its capabilities, but also in the partners who support its journey. Symbiosis is an opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and recognise those who have contributed meaningfully to our growth.”
Commenting on the importance of industry collaboration, Mr. Guruswamy Krishnamoorthy, CEO, BPL Medical Technologies, said, “As manufacturing requirements continue to evolve, close coordination across the value chain becomes increasingly important. Our partners play a vital role in helping us maintain quality standards, improve responsiveness and support the delivery of healthcare technologies that healthcare providers rely on every day.”
A key highlight of the event was the Pinnacle Awards 2026, which recognised organisations that have made notable contributions to BPL Medical‘s operations through consistent performance, responsiveness and long-term support.
The award recipients were:
● Emerging Partner Award – Anand Industrial Enterprises
● Excellent Partner Award – Kaynes Technology India Limited
● All Weather Partner Award – Surya Power Packs
● Strategic Partner Award – Triwall Pak Private Limited
Anand Industrial Enterprises was recognised for its strong performance and growing contribution to BPL Medical‘s operations, while Kaynes Technology India Limited received the Excellent Partner Award for maintaining high standards across quality, delivery and execution. Surya Power Packs was honoured for its dependable support across varying business requirements, and Triwall Pak Private Limited was recognised for its strategic alignment with the company’s long-term objectives.
Beyond the awards, the summit served as a forum for exchanging perspectives on manufacturing efficiency, supply continuity and the evolving expectations of the healthcare sector. Participants also explored ways to strengthen coordination across the value chain and build capabilities that can support future industry requirements.
Hosting the summit at its Bengaluru facility underscored BPL Medical Technologies’ continued focus on innovation-led growth. The site serves as a centre for research, product development and manufacturing, producing patient monitors, ECGs, defibrillators, ultrasound equipment, Diagnostic X-Ray’s, Digital Radiography and other critical care technologies that support healthcare systems across India and beyond. As the healthcare technology landscape continues to evolve, BPL Medical Technologies remains focused on advancing innovation, expanding manufacturing capabilities and delivering solutions that address the emerging needs of healthcare providers.
23, Jun 2026
Alila Diwa Goa Appoints Takshila Chheda as Area Director – Digital Marketing
June 23: Alila Diwa Goa has appointed Takshila Chheda as Area Director – Digital Marketing. Prior to this, Takshila used to lead digital marketing for North, East and West India at Hyatt Hotels.
In this new role at Hyatt Hotels, Takshila’s scope will include leading digital marketing for the Goa & Pune markets, in addition to West and Central India.
Takshila will be responsible for shaping and executing robust digital and performance marketing strategies, driving strong growth and enhanced online visibility across Hyatt’s portfolio. Her expertise spans brand management, digital, social media, and public relations, underpinned by a consistent track record of delivering measurable business impact and revenue growth.
Takshila brings a rich and diverse professional background to this role. Prior to Hyatt, she served as a Digital Marketing Strategist at Jio World Centre, Reliance Industries, where she played a key role in the successful launch and digital amplification of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. She also held the position of Senior Manager – Digital Marketing at Tata Motors, contributing to the brand’s strong digital presence and engagement across multiple platforms and campaigns. Earlier in her career, she built extensive expertise across leading communications agencies and the hospitality sector, working with a wide portfolio of renowned brands.
Takshila holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Corporate Communications & Reputation Management from Manchester Business School, UK, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media (Advertising) from Mumbai University, providing a strong academic foundation to her strategic and creative approach.
22, Jun 2026
fäm Properties closes AED124 million office sale at Vision Tower, Business Bay
Approximately 40,000 square feet of Grade A office space changes hands, underlining sustained demand for prime business district assets in Dubai
Dubai, UAE, 22nd June 2026: fäm Properties has facilitated the sale of approximately 40,000 square feet of office space at Vision Tower in Business Bay for AED124 million, the biggest commercial real estate deal of its kind ever recorded in Dubai.
The asset, a contiguous block of Grade A office space across multiple floors in one of Business Bay’s landmark towers, was acquired by a UAE-based company as part of its business expansion plans.
“The transaction reflects continued confidence among local businesses in Dubai’s commercial real estate market, with investors and occupiers maintaining their focus on established business- districts and institutional-quality assets,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties.
“Demand for well-located, institutional-grade office space in Dubai has stayed consistent. Buyers active at this level are precise about location, building quality and tenant profile. Assets that meet that standard continue to move.”
Daniel McCullagh, Commercial Sales Manager at fäm Properties, said transactions of this size typically involve extended due diligence, multiple stakeholders and detailed commercial structuring.
Led by McCullagh, fäm’s commercial team advised on both pricing context and execution, drawing on transaction data recorded with the Dubai Land Department to benchmark value and demand across the district.
The deal adds to the commercial division’s activity in large-format office mandates, advising occupiers, investors and landlords across Dubai’s principal office markets.
22, Jun 2026
Carne Group appoints John Parkhouse as President to accelerate execution of its growth strategy
London, 22nd June 2026 – Carne Group (Carne), Europe’s largest third-party management company, today announced the appointment of John Parkhouse as President, strengthening its leadership as the firm accelerates execution of its long-term, client-led growth strategy.
John Parkhouse brings more than 30 years’ experience in international financial services and asset management. He joins Carne following a distinguished career at PwC, where he spent over three decades advising global asset managers and investment fund groups, and most recently served as Territory Senior Partner and CEO of PwC Luxembourg, leading a business of circa 4,000 professionals.
As President of Carne Group, John Parkhouse will lead the Global Executive Committee and be responsible for executing group strategy, ensuring a client-led focus as Carne continues to scale its platform and capabilities globally.
John Donohoe, Founder and Group CEO, remains CEO, with a focus on innovation, long-term strategy and value creation. John Parkhouse will report directly to him.
This partnership combines deep operational leadership with founder-led vision, strengthening Carne’s ability to continue focusing on serving clients and building talent.
A key driver of the firm’s next chapter is the growing adoption of the ‘Supermanco’ model, where managers are increasingly looking beyond compliance and asking specialist operational partners to also help them launch products faster, enter new asset classes, navigate different fund structures, and grow across markets.
This demand is being driven by a structural shift in the asset management industry, where traditional operating models are struggling in the face of increased competition and complexity. Carne has invested heavily in developing the technology and expertise to help its clients overcome this at scale.
John Parkhouse’s appointment represents the latest milestone in Carne’s longstanding growth strategy, which includes the recent announcement of Permira as a significant minority investor (subject to regulatory approval). Parkhouse’s appointment reflects the scale, credibility and momentum of Carne’s business today, combining strong client demand, the confidence of a significant new investor, and experienced leadership focused on accelerating what comes next. A key part of John Parkhouse’s role will be working with Permira to maximise the value they can bring.
John Donohoe, Founder and Group CEO of Carne Group, said: “John’s track record and prominence as a figurehead in the asset management industry, combined with his reputation for being relentlessly client-led, makes him an ideal fit as we build on the phenomenal success Carne has achieved so far, and enter a phase where disciplined execution and client experience are just as important as ambition and innovation.
This is not just an investment in Carne’s future, but an investment in our clients’ future. John brings the experience and leadership to ensure that, as we scale, the people who build this business and the clients we serve all feel the benefit of what comes next.”
John Parkhouse, President of Carne Group, added: “Carne has built a hugely impressive combination of people, technology and ambition that positions the business to play a key role in the future of our industry. Having spent more than three decades advising asset managers, I am convinced this is a moment of genuine opportunity, both for Carne and its clients.
In the last few years, product innovation and distribution have increasingly outpaced operating models, leaving many managers struggling to keep up. This is where Carne’s redefined vision of the Supermanco comes in: we provide the operational backbone that enables managers to achieve their growth ambitions, against a backdrop of rising costs, competition and
Carne’s leadership position is further reinforced by the PwC 2026 Observatory for Management Companies Barometer and Monterey Insight’s latest report, which have recognised Carne as the largest third-party management company (ManCo) by assets under management (AUM) in Luxembourg and Ireland, respectively. Together, these reports confirm Carne’s position as the largest third-party ManCo in Europe, overseeing more than $1 trillion in AUM globally.
22, Jun 2026
West Bengal Budget 2026-27 Receives Positive Response from Industry Leaders Across Key Sectors
“We applaud the bold budget presented today, the welfare of citizens is obviously the Top Agenda .
Specifically for businesses, the three blockbuster industrial reforms: completely dismantling the corrupt ‘Syndicate Raj,’ slashing stifling local red tape for mega-investments, and finally targeting the archaic Urban Land Ceiling Act. These are massive, historic strides toward a Viksit Bangla.
However, Bengal‘s industry rightfully expected an absolute knockout punch. The writing was already on the wall; a mere bureaucratic review is a half-measure. The government must bypass all further delays, and entirely abolish this obsolete Urban Land Ceiling Act immediately. Bengal cannot afford to waste another single second of our economic future.”
“The West Bengal Budget 2026-27 has laid significant emphasis on infrastructure development, employment generation and investment promotion, all of which are important drivers of economic growth and housing demand.
From a real estate perspective, the proposed infrastructure investments, enhanced connectivity initiatives and the announcement of a second airport in the Kolkata region have the potential to unlock new growth corridors and support residential, commercial, industrial and logistics-led development.
The proposed industrial policy and focus on faster approvals are also encouraging steps that can strengthen investor confidence and accelerate economic activity across the state.
The continued focus on housing through PM Awas Yojana, coupled with measures that support job creation and income growth, should further strengthen end-user demand in the housing market.
We are optimistic about West Bengal‘s growth prospects and its emergence as the country’s top priority destination for investment and development.”
Mr. Sahil Saharia, CEO, Shristi Infrastructure Development Ltd.“The West Bengal Budget 2026-27 has outlined several progressive measures for the real estate and infrastructure sectors. The proposed industrial policy, focus on ease of doing business, monetisation of surplus government land, and continued emphasis on affordable housing are expected to create new opportunities for investment and development across the state. These initiatives will help strengthen West Bengal‘s position as an attractive destination for real estate and infrastructure growth”.
The state‘s focus on both healthcare infrastructure and human capital development in the sector which reflects the strategic understanding that sustainable healthcare growth requires investment in capacity, talent and accessibility simultaneously. If implemented effectively, these measures can significantly enhance healthcare outcomes and further position West Bengal as a leading healthcare destination in Eastern India.”
Dr. M.S. Purkait, Medical Superintendent, Techno India DAMA Hospital.
22, Jun 2026
India’s Got Nova, an Unconventional Community-First Format Featuring Samay Raina and Rajiv Makhni; Continues Industry-First Open Review Program
New Delhi, June 22: Ai+ Smartphone today announced the reveal of the Nova 2 Neo 5G and Nova 2 Pro 5G, expanding its Nova Series portfolio and reinforcing their commitment to delivering trusted, accessible, and performance-driven smartphone experiences for Indian consumers.
Designed for different user needs while sharing a common philosophy of design, reliability, and transparency, the Nova2 Neo 5G and Nova2 Pro 5G bring the Nova experience to a broader audience from first-time smartphone users and value-conscious buyers to creators, professionals, and performance-focused upgraders.
In a departure from traditional smartphone launches, Ai+ Smartphones unveiled the devices through “India’s Got Nova“, an entertainment-led launch format hosted by comedian Samay Raina alongside Gadget Guru Rajiv Makhni. The launch combined audience interaction, product demonstrations, live debates, and real-world challenges to showcase the devices in a more authentic and consumer-centric manner.
The reveal also follows Ai+ Smartphones’ recently announced Open Review Program, under which reviewers, creators, journalists, and members of India’s technology community were invited to use, test, challenge, and review the devices before they become commercially available. With no embargoes, no talking points, and no review guidelines, the initiative reflects the company’s belief that trust is earned through transparency and that consumer feedback should help shape products before they reach the market.
Commenting on the reveal, Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ Smartphone & Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said:
“The smartphone market is becoming increasingly diverse, with consumers seeking devices that align with their individual lifestyles, aspirations, and expectations rather than a one-size-fits-all experience. The Nova Series was created to address this shift by bringing together thoughtful design, dependable performance, trusted software, and meaningful innovation within a single portfolio.”
“With the introduction of the Nova 2 Neo and Nova 2 Pro, we are expanding the reach of the Nova Series across a broader spectrum of users from first-time smartphone owners to performance-focused upgraders. At the same time, we wanted the launch itself to reflect the values we stand for. That’s why we chose to involve the community, invite honest feedback, and launch these devices through a format that prioritises real conversations over presentations.” he added.
The Open Review Program received an overwhelming response from the technology community, with hundreds of reviewers, creators, journalists, and technology enthusiasts registering to participate. Feedback from the program will continue to be incorporated as part of Ai+‘s broader commitment to transparency, product improvement, and consumer trust.
NOVA 2 NEO: THE SMART ENTRY
The Nova 2 Neo is the most accessible device in the Nova Series, designed to bring the Nova experience of thoughtful design, dependable performance, and trusted software to first-time smartphone users and value-conscious buyers.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G chipset, the device features a 6.745-inch HD+ 120Hz display, a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI camera, and an 8MP front camera.
A 6000mAh battery with 18W charging support ensures all-day usage, while expandable storage of up to 2TB, dual SIM 5G, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP65 dust and water resistance, and a slim 8.5mm profile make it a highly practical everyday companion.
The Nova 2 Neo runs Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS and includes the NxtPrivacy Dashboard, AI Key support, and a clean software experience designed around user control and transparency.
Available Configurations:
• 4GB + 128GB
• 6GB + 128GB
NOVA 2 PRO: THE PERFORMANCE STATEMENT
Built for creators, professionals, and users seeking a more immersive smartphone experience, the Nova 2 Pro combines elevated design with stronger performance and richer multimedia capabilities.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset, the device features a 6.9-inch FHD+ 144Hz punch-hole display with up to 800 nits HBM brightness and a multi-layer cooling system.
Its camera setup includes a 48MP Sony IMX582 AI main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and a 13MP front camera for content creation and video communication.
The Nova 2 Pro also introduces customisable lights in the back panel for calls, messages, notifications etc, a premium 2.5D glass finish, dual stereo speakers, dual microphones, UFS storage, expandable memory of 1TB, and a 6000mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
Like the Neo, it runs Android 16-based NxtQuantum OS with the NxtPrivacy Dashboard and advanced AI Key customisation.
Available Configurations:
• 6GB + 128GB
• 8GB + 128GB
Availability:
The Nova 2 Neo and Nova 2 Pro will be available on Flipkart and select retail outlets.
