Category Archives: Business

GAIL, KABIL Partner to Enhance Critical Mineral Supply and Bolster India’s Resource Security

New Delhi, July 18: GAIL (India) Limited and Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in the critical minerals sector, marking a significant step toward strengthening India’s resource security and supporting the country’s clean energy and industrial growth ambitions.

The partnership aims to explore opportunities across the critical minerals value chain, including the identification, sourcing, development, and acquisition of strategic mineral assets in India and overseas. By leveraging the expertise and capabilities of both organizations, the collaboration seeks to ensure a reliable supply of critical minerals essential for emerging technologies, renewable energy, electric mobility, and advanced manufacturing.

Under the MoU, GAIL and KABIL will jointly evaluate investment opportunities, exchange technical expertise, and develop strategies for the sustainable procurement and development of critical mineral resources. The initiative is expected to enhance India’s long-term access to strategic raw materials while strengthening the resilience of its supply chains.

The agreement aligns with the Government of India’s vision of securing critical mineral resources, promoting energy security, and supporting the country’s transition to a sustainable and self-reliant economy. The collaboration is expected to play a key role in ensuring the availability of minerals vital for future technologies, industrial development, and economic growth.

HCLTech expands India footprint with Global Technology Center in GIFT City

Ahmedabad, India, July 18: HCLTech, a leading global technology company, today announced the launch of its Global Technology Center in GIFT City, Gujarat. The center will deliver AI-led solutions to HCLTech’s global clients in the financial services industry. It will also serve as a hub for developing next-generation technology solutions and talent development.

The facility was inaugurated by Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat in the presence of C Vijayakumar, CEO & Managing Director, HCLTech, and Shri Sanjay Kaul (IAS), Managing Director & Group CEO, GIFT City.

HCLTech also signed Memoranda of Understanding with Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar and Gujarat Technological University (GTU) to advance industry-academia collaboration and nurture future-ready technology talent in Gujarat. The partnerships will focus on research in AI for financial services, related software and skills development, providing students and faculty with hands-on industry exposure and opportunities to contribute to global technology and digital transformation initiatives.

Shri Harsh Sanghavi, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, said, “We are delighted to welcome HCLTech to GIFT City. HCLTech’s commitment to creating local jobs and nurturing local talent aligns strongly with our vision of enabling Gujarat’s youth to access global career opportunities closer to home. The launch of the Global Technology Centre and the AI Lab marks an important step in strengthening GIFT City’s innovation ecosystem and advancing its position as a leading global TechFin hub. HCLTech has a proven track record of building capabilities and creating impact across the locations where it operates, and we look forward to its contribution to Gujarat’s technology landscape. As GIFT City continues its journey from a bold vision to a world-class destination for business and innovation, HCLTech’s presence will play an important role in its next phase of growth.”

C Vijayakumar, CEO & Managing Director, HCLTech, said, “Gujarat has been a beacon of progressive policies and development in India. GIFT City offers world-class infrastructure, and we are pleased to establish our presence in the state to engineer the future of financial services clients with innovative AI solutions. At HCLTech, we look forward to contributing to the local technology ecosystem in the state and boosting industry-academia collaboration to create a pool of future ready talent.”

Andaman & Nicobar Islands Set to Become Key Hub for India’s Strategic and Economic Growth

Port Blair, July 17: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are emerging as a key region in India’s growth story, offering significant opportunities in strategic security, maritime connectivity and economic development.

With its unique location in the Indian Ocean, the island group holds immense importance for strengthening India’s maritime presence and improving connectivity with regional and global partners.

Beyond its strategic value, the islands are witnessing growing attention for infrastructure expansion, tourism development, trade opportunities and sustainable economic initiatives. These efforts are expected to create new avenues for investment, employment and local development.

Experts believe that the region’s vast potential in areas such as the blue economy, marine resources and tourism can contribute significantly to India’s long-term economic objectives.

Government initiatives focused on improving connectivity and infrastructure are aimed at transforming the islands into a more accessible and vibrant economic centre while preserving their ecological balance.

The continued development of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands reflects India’s vision of strengthening coastal regions, promoting sustainable growth and enhancing its role in the Indian Ocean region.

Sensex Surges Nearly 1,000 Points as Banking and IT Stocks Lift Market Sentiment

Mumbai, July 17: Indian equity markets witnessed a strong rally as the benchmark Sensex jumped 965 points and the Nifty crossed the 24,300 mark, supported by robust buying interest in banking and information technology stocks.

The positive momentum reflected improved investor confidence, with key sectors contributing to the broader market gains. Banking and IT counters emerged as major drivers of the rally, attracting strong buying activity during the trading session.

Market analysts attributed the upward movement to favourable domestic cues, renewed investor participation and optimism surrounding growth prospects across major sectors.

The rally extended gains across several segments, with investors showing increased interest in fundamentally strong companies amid positive market sentiment.

Experts said continued monitoring of global developments, economic indicators and corporate earnings will remain important for sustaining market momentum in the coming sessions.

The strong performance of benchmark indices highlights the resilience of Indian equity markets and investor confidence in the country’s economic outlook.

Malaka Spice Celebrates 29 Years with the Return of its Signature Nasi Kandar Thaal

Pune, July 17: Marking 29 years of bringing the vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia to Pune, Malaka Spice is bringing back its much-loved Thaal, a limited-edition dining experience inspired by the bold culinary traditions of Malaysia’s Nasi Kandar. Available from 24th to 31st July 2026 at its Koregaon Park restaurant, the specially curated lunch experience is a tribute to the restaurant’s culinary journey and the loyal patrons who have been a part of it over the years.

Designed to celebrate the joy of sharing, the Birthday Thaal features a thoughtfully curated spread inspired by the vibrant flavours of Malaysia’s Nasi Kandar tradition. Guests can look forward to a selection of signature curries, rice, accompaniments, appetisers, and dessert, with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options that reflect Malaka Spice’s interpretation of this iconic Malaysian meal.

Speaking about the celebration, Praful Chandawarkar, Founder, Malaka Spice, said,

 “Our 29th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate the journey we’ve shared with our guests over the years. The Birthday Thaal reflects our continued inspiration from Southeast Asia’s diverse food cultures, particularly the rich flavours of Malaysia’s Nasi Kandar. We wanted to create a meal that brings people together over good food and shared experiences, which has always been at the heart of Malaka Spice.”

Served exclusively during lunch from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the Birthday Thaal offers diners an opportunity to experience a thoughtfully curated feast inspired by one of Malaysia’s most celebrated culinary traditions. The limited-time menu reflects Malaka Spice’s continued passion for introducing guests to the rich food heritage of Southeast Asia through immersive and memorable dining experiences.

What: Birthday Thaal

Where: Malaka Spice Koregaon Park

When: 24th to 31st July 2026, 12:00 to 05:00 PM

Smallcap and Microcap Stocks Drive Market Momentum in June, Deliver Strong Gains

Mumbai, July 17: Smallcap and microcap stocks emerged as key performers in the equity markets during June, leading the broader market rally with gains of up to 6.35 per cent, according to market data.

The strong performance of smaller companies reflected renewed investor interest, improved market sentiment and growing confidence in select sectors. The rally highlighted the resilience of emerging businesses and their increasing participation in India’s equity market growth story.

Market analysts said the performance of smallcap and microcap segments was supported by factors such as positive domestic economic indicators, sector-specific growth opportunities and increased investor participation.

The broader market movement also indicated continued optimism among investors, with smaller companies attracting attention for their growth potential and long-term value opportunities.

Experts, however, advised investors to remain mindful of market risks and evaluate investment decisions based on company fundamentals, valuations and overall market conditions.

The strong showing by smallcap and microcap stocks underscores the evolving nature of India’s equity markets and the growing role of emerging companies in driving market performance.

India’s Merchandise Exports Rise 15.5 pc in June, Reflecting Strong Global Demand

New Delhi, July 17: India’s merchandise exports recorded a growth of 15.5% in June, according to a recent report, highlighting improved performance across key export sectors and strengthening the country’s position in global trade.

The rise in exports was supported by steady demand from international markets, improved manufacturing activity and growth in several major product categories. The performance indicates continued momentum in India’s external trade sector despite evolving global economic conditions.

The report noted that sectors contributing to export growth have benefited from enhanced production capacity, policy support and increasing integration with global supply chains.

Experts said sustained export expansion will be important for strengthening India’s trade balance, supporting economic growth and creating new opportunities for domestic industries.

The government continues to focus on boosting competitiveness, improving logistics infrastructure and supporting exporters to help Indian businesses expand their presence in international markets.

Synchrony launches its largest global Experience Center alongside a reimagined Innovation Station in Hyderabad, India

Hyderabad, July 17:  Synchrony, a consumer financing company, announced the launch of its largest global Experience Center alongside a reimagined Innovation Station at its Hyderabad campus, reinforcing its long-term investment in India as a strategic hub for technology, innovation and enterprise capabilities. The nearly 6,000-square-foot facility is Synchrony’s third Experience Center globally, joining two existing Experience Centers in the United States. 

The Experience Center is an immersive experience hub where employees, customers, and partners can experience Synchrony’s products, technologies and enterprise capabilities through interactive customer journeys, VR demonstrations and real-world business use cases across Synchrony’s Health & Wellness, Home & Auto, Lifestyle, Digital, and Diversified & Value platforms. More than a physical space, the India Experience Center and Innovation Station reflect who Synchrony India is today, what it does and where it is headed.

Complementing the Experience Center, the reimagined Innovation Station enables colleagues to explore emerging technologies, build prototypes, test new ideas, participate in innovation challenges and hackathons. Together, the two spaces foster collaboration, continuous learning and cross-functional innovation while strengthening the enterprise capabilities that support Synchrony’s global business.

“Innovation happens when technology, talent and customer insights come together,” said Florin Arghirescu, EVP and Chief Technology Officer, Synchrony. “The India Experience Center and Innovation Station create an environment where our teams can collaborate across disciplines, explore emerging technologies and transform ideas into meaningful business outcomes. India’s growing contributions across technology, AI and enterprise platforms continue to strengthen Synchrony’s global capabilities, and this investment reflects our confidence in the talent, innovation and strategic role our India teams play in shaping the future of our business.”

India plays an increasingly important role in advancing Synchrony’s global business across technology, operations, analytics, marketing, risk and credit. Teams in India build and scale capabilities that support customers and employees worldwide, including AI-powered productivity solutions, cloud-native applications, cybersecurity capabilities, enterprise-scale analytics and digital experiences. The Experience Center helps colleagues better understand the customers and businesses they support, creating a stronger connection between their work and impact it delivers every day.

“This is a proud milestone for Synchrony India, and a reflection of how far our teams have come,” said Rachana Bahadur, SVP, Country Head – India, Synchrony. “Designed for our more than 6,000 colleagues, this space is an investment in our people and in the future, we are building together. It is a place where colleagues can better understand the customers we serve, see the impact of the work they do every day, and come together to learn, connect, collaborate and innovate. As Synchrony’s third Experience Center globally, it reflects India’s growing role in our global success and our belief that our people will continue to shape what’s next for Synchrony.”

Designed to evolve alongside Synchrony’s business, the Experience Center and Innovation Station will continuously introduce new customer experiences, technologies and innovations, serving as a dynamic platform for learning, collaboration and innovation for years to come.

India’s Balance of Payments Expected to Turn Positive in FY27, Supporting External Stability

New Delhi, July 17: India’s balance of payments (BoP) position is expected to move into surplus in the financial year 2026-27, according to a recent report, supported by improving external sector conditions and steady economic activity.

The projected shift to a surplus reflects expectations of stronger capital inflows, stable foreign exchange reserves and improved resilience in India’s external accounts. Analysts believe favourable global conditions and continued domestic economic growth could provide further support to the country’s balance of payments position.

The report highlighted that developments in exports, foreign investment flows and global commodity trends will remain key factors influencing India’s external sector performance in the coming months.

A stronger BoP position is expected to enhance macroeconomic stability, provide greater support to the rupee and strengthen India’s ability to manage external economic challenges.

India’s ongoing focus on boosting exports, attracting investment and maintaining economic stability continues to play an important role in strengthening the country’s position in the global economy.

World Youth Skills Day 2026: 4 Platforms Helping Young Indians Build Future-Ready Careers

July 17: As India continues to embrace a digital-first economy, the need for practical, industry-ready skills has never been greater. On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day 2026, it’s worth highlighting the platforms that are helping young professionals move beyond traditional education and prepare for the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce.

From finance and technology to coding and career-focused certifications, these learning platforms are equipping learners with the skills needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. Here’s a look at four platforms making a meaningful impact on India’s skilling ecosystem:

1. Zell Education – Building the Next Generation of Finance Professionals

Founded in 2015 by finance professionals Pratham Barot and Anant Bengani, Zell Education has emerged as one of India’s leading edtech platforms for finance and accounting education. The institute offers globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA, IFRS, CFA, CMA, and other industry-relevant programs designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and professional expectations.

With an emphasis on practical learning, mentorship, placement support, and career guidance, Zell Education empowers students and working professionals to build successful careers in finance. By making world-class finance education more accessible, the platform continues to contribute to India’s growing pool of skilled finance talent.

2. GUVI – Empowering India’s Tech Talent Through Vernacular Learning

GUVI has carved a niche by making technology education accessible in multiple Indian languages, enabling learners from diverse backgrounds to build in-demand digital skills. Its industry-focused programs cover Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Full Stack Development, Data Science, Cloud Computing, and more.

With hands-on projects, coding challenges, and career-oriented learning paths, GUVI helps students and professionals transition into high-growth technology roles while making quality tech education inclusive for learners across the country.

3. upGrad – Driving Career Growth Through Industry-Relevant Programs

upGrad has become a preferred destination for professionals looking to upskill or switch careers through structured online learning. Partnering with leading universities and industry experts, the platform offers programs across Data Science, Digital Marketing, Product Management, Software Development, AI, and Business Management.

Its blend of live mentorship, real-world projects, career services, and flexible learning has enabled thousands of learners to stay competitive in an increasingly skills-driven employment landscape.

4. Masai School – Outcome-Focused Learning for the Digital Economy

Masai School is redefining career education with its outcome-oriented approach to skill development. Focused on Software Development, Data Analytics, AI, and other digital disciplines, the platform emphasizes hands-on learning, problem-solving, and industry-ready projects rather than traditional classroom methods.

By combining rigorous training with career preparation and mentorship, Masai School equips learners with practical capabilities that align with the hiring needs of modern employers, helping create a stronger pipeline of job-ready talent for India’s digital economy.

As India moves towards becoming a global knowledge and innovation hub, platforms like these are playing a critical role in strengthening the country’s workforce. By making quality education more accessible and aligned with industry requirements, they are empowering millions of young Indians to build sustainable careers, embrace lifelong learning, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.