24, Jul 2026
India-Romania Relations Strengthened as Three MoUs Signed During President Murmu’s Visit
Bucharest, July 24, 2026: President Droupadi Murmu received a ceremonial welcome at the Cotroceni Palace in Bucharest from Romanian President Nicușor Dan, marking an important step in strengthening India-Romania bilateral relations.
Pic Credit: https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn
The two leaders held constructive and forward-looking discussions covering key areas of cooperation, including economic engagement, technology, education, culture, and people-to-people ties. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments, as well as opportunities for greater collaboration at multilateral forums.
During the occasion, India and Romania signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at expanding cooperation in the fields of science and technology, sports, and education. The agreements include collaboration in scientific research, sports development, and the establishment of a Chair of Indian Studies at the University of Bucharest.
The agreements are expected to further deepen institutional partnerships, encourage knowledge exchange, and enhance cooperation between the two countries across diverse sectors.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the India-Romania partnership and exploring new avenues of collaboration for mutual growth and shared interests.
The visit highlights the continued strengthening of diplomatic ties between India and Romania and reflects both nations’ commitment to expanding their strategic cooperation.
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- By Neel Achary
24, Jul 2026
Global Wellness Summit Announces Speakers and Topics—Including the Latest in Longevity Medicine, Women’s Health, Wellness Travel and Neuroaesthetics
BANGKOK, Thailand – July 24, 2026 – Thailand will take center stage in the global wellness conversation this November as the Global Wellness Summit (GWS) brings its landmark 20th anniversary event to Angsana Laguna Phuket. CEOs of wellness companies, doctors and academics, investors, tech innovators and policymakers will gather to celebrate two decades of staggering growth for the wellness industry while being immersed in three days of keynotes and panels on its very different future.
Twenty years ago, wellness was at its defining moment, just taking off in the cultural imagination and as a consumer market. This year’s Summit will explore how a new inflection point for wellness is here, marked by an unprecedented integration with medicine, where breakthroughs in longevity science, women’s health and precision medicine are converging with a revived interest in ancient wisdom and the emotional, spiritual and creative dimensions of wellbeing. This year’s theme, “The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness,” captures this defining moment with an extensive agenda spanning scientific breakthroughs to deep dives into neuroarts and neurowellness. All against the backdrop of Thailand, a soulful, inspiring destination that embraces balance and harmony as the true gateway to health and longevity.
“Our industry is at another pivotal moment, where advances in science, medicine and longevity are converging with a return to—but also a reinvention of—the timeless need for connection, creativity and purpose,” said Susie Ellis, GWS chair & CEO. “There’s no more perfect place to explore this future than Thailand, where ancient wellness traditions are being united with an impressive push to become the world’s newest medical-wellness and preventative health destination.”
“The theme, The Science, Art and Soul of Wellness, truly reflects Thailand’s identity, heritage and way of life. For centuries, Thailand has embraced a holistic approach to health and wellbeing, one that connects body, mind, spirit, community and nature,” said Patana Promphat, Thailand’s Minister of Public Health. “We’re proud to host the 2026 Global Wellness Summit in Phuket. This Summit reflects our commitment to advancing Thailand as a leading global wellness destination and a trusted partner in shaping the future of wellbeing.”
Hot Topics, New Speakers:
Future of Wellness + Medicine: From Women’s Health to Evolving Longevity Models
Experts will explore how precision and longevity medicines are becoming radically personalized, finally focusing on women, and how healthspan paradigms will matter more than longevity quests.
Andrea Maier, MD, PhD, globally renowned geroscientist, professor of medicine at the National University of Singapore, and founder of Asia’s first precision geromedicine clinics (Chi Longevity), will discuss what’s ahead in longevity science.
Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones movement and #1 New York Times bestselling author, whose decades of research demonstrate that some of the world’s healthiest, longest-lived populations owe more to culture, community and lifestyle than clinical interventions, will keynote on the personal bet he’s making on the future of longevity.
George Gaitanos, MSc, PhD, chief operating and scientific officer of Chenot Group, with over 30 years of experience spanning elite sports performance, lifestyle medicine and preventive health, will deliver a provocative keynote arguing for a far broader understanding of lifelong health.
Christopher Asandra, MD, founder and medical director of AsandraMD in Beverly Hills, California, is a leader in precision and age-management medicine, hormone optimization and personalized preventive healthcare. He’ll explore the bright, fast-evolving future for women’s health, hormone therapy and personalized longevity medicine, and how this is a massive, unmet opportunity in Asia.
New Global Wellness Market Research
The Global Wellness Institute will unveil the 2026 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, the industry’s go-to, authoritative research on the wellness economy, providing all new data and insights on the global and Asian wellness markets.
Asia: The Future of Wellness Travel
Asia has recently recorded by far the largest growth in wellness tourism: the market grew 31% in 2024 to reach $215 billion, surpassing Europe for the number of wellness trips. Four of the top five recent annual growth leaders are in Asia: India (57%), Thailand (36%), South Korea (36%) and China (35%). Hospitality leaders will explore the powerful wellness tourism opportunities across Asia and how the region is trailblazing unique wellness destinations.
William E. Heinecke, founder and chairman of Minor International, will keynote. Having built one of the world’s largest hospitality and restaurant groups from Thailand, he brings a rare vantage point on why Asia is now setting the pace in wellness travel, and on the opportunity for the region to define, rather than follow, what comes next.
Cathy Feliciano-Chon, managing partner of FINN Partners APAC, will hold a conversation with Ronald Akili, co-founder of Bali’s Potato Head, and Huy Hoang, founder of Japan’s Shishi-Iwa House, on how Asia’s independent hospitality brands are creating a different future for wellness travel—with creativity, culture, community and sustainability at the core.
Ingo Schweder, founder and CEO of GOCO Hospitality, one of Asia’s wellness hospitality visionaries, having developed award-winning wellness resorts across the globe, will lead a panel of experts discussing the future of wellness travel and the wealth of opportunities emerging across Asia.
The Art and Soul of Wellness
The agenda will dive deep into wellness’s emotional and creative dimensions, with a special focus on the role of the arts in human wellbeing.
Susan Magsamen, neuroaesthetics pioneer, founder and executive director of the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and co-author of the New York Times bestseller Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us, will present the latest research on how music, art and architecture can transform brain health and overall wellbeing.
Tal Danai, founder and CEO of ArtLink, one of the world’s leading hospitality art consultancies, will preview an ambitious film initiative celebrating traditional craftsmanship and artisan cultures around the world, arguing for the crucial role that creativity and cultural preservation will play in the future of wellness.
A first-of-its-kind Intentional Spaces Design Challenge will be launched, developed by the GWS and Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Applied Neuroaesthetics (and in strategic partnership with Aldar Properties), exploring how neuroaesthetics and neuroarchitecture can shape healthier buildings, communities and public spaces.
New Frontiers in Wellness Business
Exploring how hospitality brands are reimagining wellness through retail and lifestyle experiences to drive guest engagement and revenue, a panel will feature Lisa Von Tang, Singapore-based designer, artist and founder of the eponymous fashion label; Lexie Rodriguez, vice president of lifestyle at Capella Hotel Group; and Colin Low, CEO of Patience Lifestyle, a division of the leading real estate and private equity investment fund management firm, Patience Capital Group.
Strategists will analyze the extraordinary evolution of beauty, consumer wellness trends, and wellness marketing over the past 20 years, while forecasting what the next 20 may hold. Keynotes include Kelly Kovack, founder and CEO of BeautyMatter; global brand strategist Nick Vaus, founder of Free The Birds; Beth McGroarty, vice president of research at the Global Wellness Institute; and Dave McCaughan, Asia-based marketing expert.
The conference will celebrate Thailand’s wellness traditions, from its incredible culture of textiles and silk to its profound spiritual practices. The award-winning Buddhist Chanting Team from Dhammajarinee Witthaya School, empowering underserved young women through education, will take the stage. This is made possible by Summit co-chair, Jessica Jesse, founder, CEO and creative director of Zen Collective and BuDhaGirl.
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.
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.
