24, Jul 2026
CEPA Boosts UAE to India’s Third-Largest Trade Partner
New Delhi, July 24: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as India’s third-largest trading partner under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), highlighting the growing strength of bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.
The milestone reflects the positive impact of the CEPA in enhancing market access, facilitating cross-border trade, and creating new opportunities for businesses across key sectors, including manufacturing, gems and jewellery, food processing, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and services.
Speaking on the occasion, officials emphasized that the agreement has significantly accelerated trade flows, strengthened investment partnerships, and deepened commercial engagement between India and the UAE. The continued expansion of economic ties is expected to support innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth in both countries.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging the CEPA framework to further boost exports, attract investments, and enhance collaboration in emerging sectors such as technology, logistics, renewable energy, and digital commerce.
As India and the UAE continue to strengthen their strategic partnership, the CEPA remains a key driver of inclusive economic growth, improved competitiveness, and long-term prosperity for businesses and consumers in both countries.
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- By Neel Achary
24, Jul 2026
US Cuts Tariffs on Indian Goods After Forced Labour Review
New Delhi, July 24: India has secured lower tariffs from the United States following developments related to forced labour compliance measures, marking a positive step for bilateral trade and providing relief to Indian exporters across key sectors.
The tariff adjustment reflects progress in addressing labour-related concerns and reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening ethical sourcing practices, transparency in supply chains, and adherence to internationally recognized labour standards.
The reduction in tariffs is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Indian exports in the US market, improve market access for domestic manufacturers, and support growth in labour-intensive industries. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that it could boost export volumes, strengthen investor confidence, and deepen trade ties between the two countries.
Government and industry representatives emphasized that India will continue to work closely with international partners to promote responsible trade practices while ensuring sustainable economic growth and employment generation.
The latest development underscores the importance of continued collaboration between India and the United States in fostering resilient supply chains, expanding trade opportunities, and advancing shared economic priorities.
24, Jul 2026
Sensex, Nifty Fall in Early Trade Amid Spike in Global Oil Prices
Mumbai, July 24: Indian equity markets opened on a weak note on Friday, with the benchmark Sensex and Nifty indices declining nearly 1% in early trade after Brent crude oil prices crossed the $100-per-barrel mark, dampening investor sentiment.
The sharp rise in global crude oil prices has heightened concerns over inflation, higher import costs, and increased pressure on corporate earnings. The development triggered broad-based selling across key sectors, including banking, automobiles, financial services, and oil marketing companies.
Market participants are closely tracking geopolitical developments and movements in global energy markets, as sustained high crude prices could have significant implications for India’s inflation outlook, fiscal position, and economic growth.
Analysts expect market volatility to persist in the near term as investors assess the impact of elevated energy prices alongside upcoming domestic and global economic data. Despite the cautious start to the trading session, long-term market fundamentals remain supported by India’s resilient economic outlook and continued investor interest.
24, Jul 2026
Quote from Ashok Chandak on “Beyond Bengaluru – Future Powerhouse of the Global Economy
Equally important is the unprecedented policy momentum from both the Central and State Governments. Through initiatives such as the India Semiconductor Mission, Semicon India 2.0, the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS), the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS), Production Linked Incentive (PLI), Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC), the Design Linked Incentive (DLI), the Research, Development & Innovation (RDI) initiative and the National Quantum Mission, India has created one of the world’s most comprehensive technology policy frameworks. These initiatives, backed by investments running into over ₹2 lakh crore across multiple schemes and public-private projects, are transforming India’s position from a technology consumer to a global technology and manufacturing partner. States like Karnataka are further accelerating this transformation through progressive policies for GCCs, ESDM, startups and advanced manufacturing.
As this new ecosystem evolves, our approach to regional development must also evolve. The future lies in a hub-and-spoke model built on two complementary pillars—Design & Innovation, and Manufacturing. Karnataka is uniquely positioned for this transformation, with Bengaluru hosting 875+ Global Capability Centres, one of the world’s largest concentrations of semiconductor design talent, and a thriving startup ecosystem. Global experience shows that successful innovation regions do not weaken their anchor city; they strengthen it by developing specialized centres of excellence around it. Bengaluru should continue to lead as India’s global innovation hub, while cities like Mysuru can emerge as strategic centres for electronics manufacturing, semiconductor design, advanced engineering and product development.
‘Beyond Bengaluru’ is therefore not about decentralizing growth it is about multiplying Bengaluru’s strengths across Karnataka through connected, specialized ecosystems. Platforms such as Mysuru BTS play a vital role in bringing together industry, government, academia and startups to translate policy into partnerships, dialogue into investments, and investments into sustainable economic growth and high-value jobs.”
by- Ashok Chandak, President, IESA & SEMI India
“The next decade will not be defined by the race for bigger cities, but by the ability to build connected innovation ecosystems where design happens in one city, manufacturing in another, and both compete together on the global stage.” Added Ashok Chandak.
23, Jul 2026
Partnership with EnergyHub, Sunrun, and The Mobility House to Test Massachusetts Residential Vehicle-to-Grid Program for Eversource and National Grid Customers
23, Jul 2026
Markets Extend Four-Day Slide as Rising Oil Prices Weigh on Investor Sentiment
Mumbai, July 23: Indian benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty extended their losing streak to a fourth consecutive session on Thursday as escalating US-Iran tensions pushed global crude oil prices higher, dampening investor sentiment.
Market participants remained cautious amid concerns that sustained increases in crude prices could raise inflationary pressures, widen India’s import bill, and impact corporate earnings, particularly in sectors heavily dependent on fuel.
Selling pressure was witnessed across several sectors as investors reacted to geopolitical developments in West Asia and their potential impact on the global economy. Analysts said heightened uncertainty prompted a risk-off approach in the markets.
India, which imports a significant share of its crude oil requirements, remains sensitive to fluctuations in global energy prices. A prolonged rise in oil prices could increase input costs for businesses and pose challenges for the country’s macroeconomic outlook.
Despite the near-term volatility, market experts noted that domestic economic fundamentals remain resilient, with investors expected to closely track geopolitical developments, crude price movements, and global market cues in the coming days.
23, Jul 2026
Emaar leads the way as developers show Dubai real estate strength in depth
fäm Properties report reveals Azizi dominating the affordable market in 2026 and topping overall sales transactions
Dubai, UAE, July 23: Emaar’s position as Dubai’s leading developer is underlined today by a new market analysis revealing the depth of residential real estate activity across the luxury and affordable sectors so far this year.
The report from fäm Properties today shows that Emaar has recorded the highest value in sales transactions to date this year at AED30.6 billion – 83.2% higher than DAMAC in second place at AED16.7 billion.
Emaar also sold the highest volume of properties in the AED 15 million and above luxury sector, with 387 transactions worth AED8.4 billion, ahead of Omniyat with 212 deals amounting to AED 6.5 billion.
In addition, the developer behind some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks has so far this year delivered the most projects (9) and units (3,819), and currently has the biggest number of active projects under construction (150).
Data from DXBinteract shows that Azizi, which dominates the market for affordable properties below AED2 million, has also been the most prolific developer in terms of overall residential sales transactions so far this year.
To date, the top ten developers in overall sales volume have recorded a combined 36,808 transactions valued at AED 86.8 billion.
“The fact that Dubai’s leading developers have been driving sales across both the luxury and affordable segments throughout the year is clear sign of market strength,” said Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties.
“This shows that demand is not concentrated in one area, and points to a healthy, diversified market with steady demand from both investors and end-users.”
In overall sales, Azizi led with 8,411 transactions ahead of DAMAC (6,387) and Emaar (5,550). The vast majority of Azizi’s sales – 8,053 worth AED6.6 billion – were in the affordable sector, ahead of Binghatti (4,268 – AED4.5 billion) and DAMAC (2,243 – AED2.5 billion).
DAMAC’s continued high level of activity this year places the company second in terms of projects (7) and units (2,591) delivered, and in the number of active projects under construction (113). Meanwhile, Reportage has launched 16 projects, the most to date in 2026, and is also among the top ten developers in sales of properties below AED2 million (1,322) and overall sales (1,544).
TOP DEVELOPERS – TOTAL SALES VOLUME & VALUE IN 2026 (As of 22nd July)
Volume Value (AED)
Azizi 8,411 7.5B
DAMAC 6,387 16.7B
Emaar 5,550 30.6B
Binghatti 5,188 7.9B
Ellington 2,768 8.0B
Samana 1,839 2.1B
Sobha 1,731 5.5B
Danube 1,695 3.6B
Imtiaz 1,695 3.0B
Reportage 1,544 1.9B
Totals 36,808 86.8B
PROPERTIES ABOVE 15M
Volume Value (AED)
Emaar 387 8.4B
Omniyat 212 6.5B
H&H 178 6.9B
Meraas 135 3.4B
Nakheel 80 2.4B
Wasl 66 1.4B
AHS Properties 64 1.8B
Shamal Holding 47 1.4B
Zaya 43 2.1B
Jumeirah Golf Est’ 36 956.9M
Totals 1,248 35.16B
PROPERTIES BELOW 2M
Volume Value (AED)
Azizi 8,095 6.6B
Binghatti 4,268 4.5B
DAMAC 2,247 2.5B
Samana 1,716 1.7B
Emaar 1,437 2.3B
Reportage 1,322 1.3B
Imtiaz 1,153 1.3B
Ellington 1,039 1.6B
Danube 1,004 1.3B
Vision Dev’ 649 717.4M
Totals 22,930 23.82B
Top developers by delivered projects – 2026: Emaar 9; DAMAC 7; Nakheel 4; Deyaar 3; Dubai Properties 3; Azizi 3; Continental Investments 2; Esnaad 2; Ellington 2; Segrex 2.
Top developers by delivered units – 2026: Emaar 3,819; DAMAC 2,591; Select Group 1,502; Deyaar 1,435; Continental Invest’ 1,294; The Cayan Group 1,164; Sobha 985; Nakheel 898; MAG 654; Dubai Properties 558.
Top developers by launched projects – 2026: Reportage 16; Emaar 11; Binghatti 9; DAMAC 6; Azizi 5; Ellington 5; Imtiaz 5; GFS 5; Sobha 3; Dubai South 3.
Top developers by projects under construction – 2026: Emaar 150; DAMAC 113; Azizi 55; Samana; 44; Binghatti 37; Nakheel 36; Meraas 35; Imtiaz 33; Ellington 33; Nshama 25.
23, Jul 2026
India Emerges as a Preferred Investment Destination for European Companies: Report
New Delhi, July 23: India is increasingly being viewed as a favourable investment destination by European companies, supported by its strong economic growth, expanding market opportunities, and improving business environment, according to a recent report.
The report highlighted that India’s large consumer base, skilled workforce, growing digital ecosystem, and ongoing infrastructure development are among the key factors attracting European businesses to invest in the country.
European companies are showing greater interest in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, automobiles, and financial services, driven by India’s growth potential and policy initiatives aimed at encouraging foreign investment.
The report noted that India’s focus on strengthening supply chains, promoting innovation, and enhancing ease of doing business has further improved its appeal among global investors.
Industry experts said that deeper economic cooperation between India and Europe could create new opportunities for trade, investment, and technology partnerships.
With its expanding economy and strategic position in global markets, India continues to strengthen its role as a major destination for international businesses seeking long-term growth opportunities.
23, Jul 2026
72 percent in South India Prioritise Balanced Diet, Bengaluru, Hyderabad Touch 75 percent, Finds ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026
Bangalore, July 23: ManipalCigna Health Insurance, one of India’s leading health insurers, has released insights specific to South India from India Health Quotient (IHQ) 2026. The IHQ is a proprietary multi-dimensional index measuring self-assessed health across five dimensions: Physical, Mental, Financial, Occupational, and Social. The study covered urban Indians across 16 cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Coimbatore from the southern region.
India‘s overall health score stands at 65 out of 100, while South India recorded an overall score of 63 out of 100. Across urban Indians, physical health is leading at 68, while financial health trails at 62, the lowest score across all dimensions and a critical aspect requiring greater attention.
Interestingly, 72% of respondents from South India prioritize eating a healthy, balanced diet in their top 5 aspects of physical health vs 65% in rest of India. This is most notable in the new age tech metros of Bengaluru, Hyderabad (75%). It reflects a larger shift across urban India, where people are consciously moving towards healthier lifestyles and making food choices a part of how they manage their overall wellbeing. On the other hand, the findings also highlight opportunities to strengthen mental well-being, with only 49% reporting strong focus and clarity of mind and 47% feeling confident in their ability to adapt to sudden change.
The study also reveals that health insurance ownership is one of the most promising predictors of overall wellbeing in India. Indians with health insurance score 68/100 on the India Health Quotient, compared to 62/100 for uninsured urban Indians, a 6-point gap that remains consistent across every cohort, region, age group, gender, and stress level. Across the cohorts and stress level tested in the study, insured Indians reported higher wellbeing scores than their uninsured counterparts on physical, mental and financial dimensions alike.
This “Wellbeing Premium” is notably larger than the gender gap (men and women both score 65/100) and exceeds regional differences between major metros like Mumbai (62/100) and Bengaluru (63/100) and surpasses the gap between India‘s youngest and oldest age groups (63/100 vs 65/100). The gap does not diminish even when controlling for stress levels, suggesting that health insurance ownership is associated with meaningfully better wellbeing outcomes across all population segments.
Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said, “The India Health Quotient asks a simple question: how does India actually feel? It shows that health is multi-dimensional, with people balancing physical, mental, financial, and work and social wellbeing, and gaps in one area often affecting the others. South India stands out for its focus on healthy eating, with 72% prioritizing a balanced diet, rising to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. However, this physical discipline does not fully offset everyday pressures. Across regions, we also see that health insurance ownership helps narrow wellbeing gaps, reinforcing that protection is an important part of overall wellbeing.”
As Karnataka continues its growth journey, the need for greater awareness around healthcare financing and financial protection remains important. With changing healthcare needs and rising medical costs, health insurance can play a critical role in helping individuals and families manage healthcare expenses while ensuring access to quality care when needed.
The ManipalCigna India Health Quotient 2026 underscores the company’s commitment to going beyond traditional health insurance by developing a deeper, evidence-based understanding of how Indians experience wellbeing. With this, the company reaffirms its focus on building more responsive, holistic health solutions for a rapidly evolving India
23, Jul 2026
BSE Expands Market Benchmarking with New Index Covering Nearly Entire Equity Landscape
Mumbai, July 23: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has introduced a new Total Market Index aimed at providing a wider and more comprehensive view of India’s equity market by representing nearly 98 per cent of the market capitalisation covered under the BSE AllCap Index.
The new benchmark is designed to capture the performance of companies across different segments of the market, giving investors a broader perspective on overall market movements and trends.
BSE said the index will serve as an important tool for investors, fund managers, and market participants seeking a diversified representation of India’s listed companies. It may also support the creation of investment products such as index-based funds and other market-linked instruments.
The launch reflects the exchange’s focus on developing innovative market solutions, improving transparency, and strengthening the investment ecosystem in India.
Financial experts believe that comprehensive market indices help investors better understand market performance and make informed decisions by providing wider sector and company representation.
With the introduction of the Total Market Index, BSE aims to enhance market tracking capabilities and offer a more inclusive benchmark for India’s growing equity market.
