Strong advances growth to drive profitability of Indian banks: Report

New Delhi, July 6: Strong growth in bank advances is likely to remain a key driver of profitability for Indian banks, according to a recent report.

The report said expanding credit demand across retail, corporate, and small business segments is supporting overall loan growth in the banking sector. This momentum, combined with relatively stable asset quality and improving operational efficiency, is expected to strengthen earnings outlook.

It added that banks are benefiting from steady economic activity and rising consumption trends, which are boosting credit uptake across key sectors. However, the report cautioned that interest rate movements, global financial conditions, and credit risk in certain segments could influence future profitability.

Overall, analysts said the banking sector remains well-positioned for sustained growth, supported by healthy loan demand and a stable macroeconomic environment.

Cooperatives drive inclusive growth in India: Report

New Delhi, July 6: India’s cooperative ecosystem is emerging as a strong pillar of inclusive development, playing a growing role in supporting rural livelihoods and broad-based economic participation, according to a recent report.

The report highlighted that cooperative institutions across agriculture, dairy, credit, fisheries, and small-scale enterprises are helping improve access to affordable finance, fair markets, and essential services. This has particularly benefited farmers, rural households, and self-help groups by strengthening income opportunities at the grassroots level.

It added that ongoing policy support, institutional reforms, and increasing digital adoption have improved transparency, efficiency, and outreach within the cooperative framework. These developments have enabled cooperatives to function more effectively as community-driven economic units.

Experts noted that the cooperative model continues to contribute to balanced regional development by reducing disparities between urban and rural economies. They said its expanding role in employment generation, skill development, and value-chain integration is helping position it as a key engine of inclusive growth in India’s development landscape.

India’s deal value jumps 127 pc to four-year high in Q2: Report

India–New Zealand Trade, Travel Surge Ahead of FTA Rollout

July 6: Trade and tourism between India and New Zealand are witnessing strong growth ahead of the implementation of the proposed Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two nations.

Export volumes from India have increased in recent months, reflecting higher demand for Indian goods and services in overseas markets. At the same time, there has been a noticeable rise in visitor arrivals from India to New Zealand, driven by tourism, education, and business travel.

Officials from both countries said this upward trend signals growing confidence among businesses and travellers as economic ties continue to strengthen. They added that the upcoming FTA is expected to further reduce trade barriers, simplify customs procedures, and open new opportunities for exporters, investors, and service providers.

The agreement is also expected to boost cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, technology, education, and tourism, while improving market access for businesses on both sides.

Overall, the rising trade and travel activity highlights deepening economic engagement between India and New Zealand ahead of the formal rollout of the FTA.

Best Buy India Head Surendra Bashani inspires future leaders at NMIMS Bengaluru MBA Batch 17 inauguration

Bengaluru, July 06: SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), School of Business Management (SBM), Bengaluru, officially welcomed the incoming cohort for its MBA Batch XVII (2026–2028) at its Bannerghatta campus during an inspiring orientation and inauguration program. This marks the beginning of a transformative academic journey for aspiring managers and change-makers who are poised to shape the future of industry and society.

The inauguration commenced with the traditional Deeksharambham ceremony, followed by the invocation, lighting of the lamp, and the singing of the NMIMS Anthem. The event brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and distinguished industry leaders to celebrate the commencement of the new academic session, introducing the fresh batch to SBM’s rigorous academic ecosystem, industry-oriented learning approach, and leadership development framework.

Addressing the incoming cohort the Chief Guest, Mr. Surendra Bashani, Head of Best Buy India, a seasoned global executive with decades of experience leading product, engineering, and business organizations, shared valuable perspectives on leadership, innovation, adaptability, and the vital importance of building high-performance teams in an increasingly dynamic corporate landscape.

Mr. Surendra Bashani, Head of Best Buy India, said: “The gap between corporate needs and academic learning is closing fast, and institutions like NMIMS are at the forefront of this evolution. To the MBA Batch of 2026–2028, the industry values leaders who bring a blend of technological adaptability and strategic problem-solving. I am confident that the rigorous environment here will prepare these minds to lead the next generation of global businesses.”

Welcoming the new batch, SBM Bengaluru leadership emphasized the importance of embracing learning beyond the classroom and developing the ethical grounding required to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven business environment.

Dr. Narayani Ramachandran, Campus Director, NMIMS Bengaluru, stated: “At NMIMS Bengaluru, we don’t just teach business; we shape the leaders of tomorrow. As we welcome the MBA Batch of 2026–2028, our commitment remains fixed on delivering an education grounded in innovation, global perspectives, and strong ethical values. This new cohort represents the future of corporate leadership, and we are dedicated to providing them with the ecosystem they need to thrive.”

Reinforcing this vision, Dr. Narayani Ramachandran led the incoming batch in taking the Sustainability Oath, showcasing the institution’s deeply rooted commitment to responsible and sustainable leadership. The proceedings also featured an inspiring address by Dr. Mallika Srivastava, Program Chairperson, who highlighted the school’s commitment to combining academic rigor with industry relevance.

NMIMS School of Business Management, Bengaluru, follows the distinctive ‘One MBA, One Curriculum’ approach, ensuring a consistent and standardized learning experience across all NMIMS campuses. This integrated model guarantees that every NMIMS MBA graduate receives the same high-quality education, preparing them to excel in an increasingly competitive global business environment.

Sensex, Nifty extend 4-day winning streak as realty and auto stocks drive market rally

Mumbai, July 6: Indian equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty extended their gains for the fourth consecutive trading session, supported by strong buying interest in realty and auto stocks.

The markets opened on a positive note and maintained upward momentum through the session, with sectoral strength in real estate and automobile shares leading the rally. Broader market indices also traded firm, indicating healthy participation across segments.

Analysts said investor sentiment has improved due to sustained domestic inflows and optimism in select sectors. Realty stocks gained on expectations of steady demand and strong project pipelines, while auto stocks advanced on hopes of stable sales trends and improving rural demand outlook.

However, market experts cautioned that global cues, including movements in crude oil prices, inflation trends, and overseas market performance, could influence near-term volatility. They also noted that intermittent profit booking may emerge after the recent multi-session rally.