Author: Sreelatha M

Categories
Beyond

IMF cuts India’s FY27 growth forecast to 6.4%

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered India’s economic growth forecast for the financial year 2026-27 (FY27) to 6.4%, down from its earlier estimate of 6.6%. The revision reflects concerns over rising global energy prices, increasing geopolitical tensions and a weaker external environment that could affect economic activity.

Despite the downgrade, the IMF said India will remain the fastest-growing major economy in the world. It noted that the country’s strong domestic demand, steady investment and resilient services sector continue to support growth, even as global conditions become more challenging.

The IMF said higher crude oil and energy prices are expected to increase inflationary pressures and raise import costs for India, which depends heavily on imported oil. These factors could affect household spending, business costs and overall economic momentum in the coming months.

The global lender also pointed to uncertainty caused by ongoing geopolitical conflicts and disruptions in international trade. It warned that prolonged tensions could hurt exports, increase market volatility and slow global growth, indirectly affecting India’s economy.

However, the IMF believes India’s economic fundamentals remain strong. Government spending on infrastructure, improving manufacturing activity and healthy private consumption are expected to continue supporting growth. The report also highlighted the country’s expanding digital economy and rising investment as key strengths.

The IMF retained its growth forecast of 6.2% for FY28, indicating that the Indian economy is expected to remain on a stable growth path over the medium term. It also said inflation is likely to ease gradually if commodity prices stabilise and supply conditions improve.

Economists believe the revised forecast is more a reflection of global headwinds than weaknesses in the domestic economy. They say India is better placed than many other major economies to handle external shocks because of its large domestic market, strong financial system and ongoing policy reforms.

Also Read: SBI Funds IPO opens July 14

Categories
1 Minute-Read

Bombay HC denies interim relief against Cognizant logo

The Bombay High Court has refused to grant interim relief to Atyati Technologies in its trademark and copyright dispute with Cognizant over the use of a hexagonal logo.

The court declined to restrain Cognizant from using the logo at this stage, observing that the balance of convenience did not favour an interim injunction.

However, it clarified that the observations were only preliminary and would not affect the final outcome of the case. The matter will now proceed for further hearing on merits.

Categories
Technology

Anthropic brings Claude CoWork to mobile, web

Anthropic has expanded its AI assistant Claude by launching the Claude CoWork feature on both mobile devices and the web, making it easier for users to collaborate with the chatbot across platforms. The company has also extended higher usage limits for paid subscribers until August 5.

Claude CoWork is designed to make interactions with the AI more collaborative. Instead of responding to one-off prompts, the chatbot can help users brainstorm ideas, draft content, analyse documents and manage projects while maintaining the context of ongoing conversations. The feature allows users to switch between mobile and desktop without losing their workflow.

The temporary extension of higher usage limits gives paid users more access to Anthropic’s latest AI models. The company said the move is intended to support growing demand while allowing subscribers to experience its newest capabilities for a longer period.

The update comes as competition in the generative AI market intensifies, with companies racing to make AI assistants more useful for everyday work. Anthropic is positioning Claude as a digital collaborator that can support professionals, students and businesses across a range of tasks.

By bringing Claude CoWork to mobile and the web, Anthropic aims to offer a more seamless and flexible AI experience, helping users stay productive wherever they are.

Also Read: Cult.fit files IPO papers, targets ₹950 cr fresh issue

Categories
1 Minute-Read

Walmart cuts prices on thousands of everyday items

Walmart has announced price cuts on thousands of products, including grocery items such as beef and Coca-Cola, as the retail giant aims to provide relief to customers facing higher living costs.

The company said it is reducing prices across several categories, focusing on everyday essentials and popular household products. The move comes as retailers continue responding to cautious consumer spending and ongoing inflation concerns.

Walmart’s latest strategy is aimed at keeping shoppers engaged by offering more affordable options while maintaining its position as a low-price leader. The company expects competitive pricing to remain a key factor in attracting customers.

Categories
Technology

Nothing unveils Phone 4b and RCB edition

Nothing has introduced the Phone 4b in India, bringing its signature transparent design and AI-powered features to a more affordable price segment. The new smartphone is aimed at users looking for a balance of performance, battery life and software experience without spending flagship-level money.

Starting at ₹29,999, the Phone 4b is available in two storage variants. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 processor, paired with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB of internal storage. The phone runs Nothing OS based on Android 16, with the company promising three years of Android updates and six years of security patches.

One of the biggest highlights for Indian buyers is the 6,000mAh battery, which is larger than the version available in several international markets. The battery supports fast charging and is designed to comfortably last through a full day of heavy use.

The Phone 4b sports a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother scrolling, gaming and video playback. Nothing has retained its transparent rear design while introducing a new mini Glyph Bar that lights up for calls, notifications and charging updates.

The company has also added its Essential AI features, allowing users to organise notes, reminders and daily tasks more efficiently. These tools are designed to simplify everyday smartphone use rather than add unnecessary complexity.

For photography, the Phone 4b comes with a 50MP primary rear camera featuring optical image stabilisation, supported by an ultra-wide sensor. On the front, the selfie camera is designed to deliver clear photos and video calls.

Nothing says the Phone 4b is built for users who want dependable everyday performance along with a distinctive design. The smartphone will go on sale in India from July 14 through Flipkart, the company’s website and select retail stores.

With competitive pricing, long software support and a larger battery for Indian customers, the Phone 4b strengthens Nothing’s position in the country’s fast-growing mid-range smartphone market.

Also Read: Apple brings back card payments In India

Categories
Beyond

Saudi Arabia slashes crude prices

Saudi Arabia has announced its biggest crude oil price cut for Asian buyers in more than two decades, signalling growing pressure in global oil markets amid rising supplies and uncertain demand.

State-owned oil giant Saudi Aramco has reduced the official selling price (OSP) of its flagship Arab Light crude for August deliveries to Asia by around $1.10 per barrel. The cut brings the premium over the regional benchmark to its lowest level in years and marks one of the sharpest price reductions since the early 2000s.

The move comes as oil-producing countries face a changing market environment, with global supply increasing and demand growth showing signs of slowing. Higher output from major producers, including members of the OPEC+ alliance, has added pressure on prices, forcing Saudi Arabia to adjust pricing to remain competitive in key Asian markets.

Asia remains the largest market for Saudi crude, with countries such as China, India, Japan and South Korea among its biggest customers. The latest reduction is seen as an effort to protect market share while responding to shifting supply-demand dynamics.

The price cut reflects Saudi Arabia’s attempt to balance two competing priorities, maintaining revenues while ensuring its crude remains attractive to buyers. The kingdom has traditionally used official selling prices as a tool to influence market sentiment and manage competition among oil suppliers.

The reduction also comes despite efforts by OPEC+ producers to manage output and support crude prices. However, increasing production levels and concerns over economic growth have limited the effectiveness of supply controls.

For major oil-importing countries such as India, lower crude prices could provide some relief by reducing import costs and easing pressure on inflation. Cheaper crude can also help lower fuel-related expenses for businesses and consumers.

Also Read: Trent reports 19% revenue growth in first quarter

Categories
1 Minute-Read

India, Japan unite for UNICORN naval project

India and Japan have launched their first joint defence technology project by agreeing to co-develop the UNICORN (Unified Complex Radio Antenna) system for Indian Navy warships.

The advanced antenna combines multiple communication and surveillance systems into a single integrated mast, helping ships become harder to detect on enemy radar while improving operational efficiency.

The project will be jointly developed with Japanese technology and manufactured in India, marking a major step in defence cooperation between the two countries. Announced during the India-Japan summit in New Delhi, the agreement reflects growing strategic trust and supports a shared vision for a secure, stable and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

The partnership also signals closer collaboration in advanced defence technologies and maritime security.

Categories
Uncategorized

Kalyan Jewellers stock falls despite growth

Shares of Kalyan Jewellers India came under sharp selling pressure on Tuesday, falling nearly 7% despite the company reporting a strong business update for the first quarter of FY27. The decline surprised investors, as the jewellery retailer posted robust growth across its domestic and international operations.

The company reported a 38% year-on-year increase in consolidated revenue for the April–June quarter, driven by healthy consumer demand and strong festive and wedding-related purchases. Its India business delivered solid growth, while international operations also recorded steady expansion, contributing around 14% of consolidated revenue.

Despite the upbeat operational performance, investors chose to book profits after the stock’s recent rally. Analysts said the market may have been expecting even stronger growth, particularly after competitor Titan reported a higher business growth rate for the same period. Comparisons with peers and concerns over the stock’s valuation also weighed on sentiment.

The company continued to expand its retail footprint during the quarter by opening new showrooms in India and overseas. Management said demand remained resilient despite elevated gold prices, with customer interest supported by wedding purchases and festive buying. The franchise-led expansion strategy also continued to strengthen Kalyan Jewellers’ presence across key markets.

Also Read: Telecom tariffs may rise up to 15% soon

Categories
Beyond

Telecom tariffs may rise up to 15% soon

Mobile phone users may have to brace for another increase in their monthly bills, with telecom operators reportedly preparing to raise tariffs by 12–15% over the next three to four months. Industry reports suggest that the country’s leading telecom companies—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi)—are considering another round of price revisions as they look to improve revenues and support network expansion.

If implemented, the proposed hike would come after the tariff increases introduced in mid-2025, which had already pushed up the cost of prepaid and postpaid plans. Analysts believe telecom companies are now focusing on improving the average revenue per user (ARPU), a key metric that reflects earnings from each subscriber.

The expected price increase is also linked to the industry’s growing investment needs. Telecom operators continue to spend heavily on expanding 5G services, strengthening network infrastructure and improving service quality across urban and rural markets. Higher tariffs are expected to help companies recover these investments while maintaining profitability.

The impact on subscribers could vary depending on the plan they use. Customers on entry-level prepaid plans may see relatively smaller increases, while users of premium plans could face higher monthly bills. However, telecom companies are also expected to continue offering bundled benefits such as increased data limits, OTT subscriptions and additional calling features to retain customers.

Among the major players, Bharti Airtel has consistently advocated for higher tariffs to improve the financial health of the telecom sector. Industry observers expect other operators to follow a similar pricing strategy to maintain competitive parity.

Despite the expected increase, analysts note that India’s mobile tariffs remain among the lowest globally. They believe gradual price hikes are necessary to support continued investment in digital infrastructure and meet the rising demand for high-speed data services.

No telecom operator has officially announced a fresh tariff revision so far. However, reports indicate that a decision could be taken in the coming months, depending on market conditions and competitive developments.

Also Read: Cochin Shipyard OFS opens today, shares slip 4%

Categories
Corporate

Sensex climbs 300 points, Nifty trades above 24,500

Equity indices traded with modest gains on Tuesday as investors remained optimistic amid easing crude oil prices, sustained foreign institutional buying and positive global cues. The upbeat sentiment helped extend the market’s recent winning streak, with both the Sensex and Nifty staying comfortably in positive territory through the session.

The BSE Sensex climbed over 250 points during morning trade to reclaim the 78,500 level, while the NSE Nifty moved above 24,500. Buying interest was largely concentrated in information technology, financial and select metal stocks, although profit booking in a few heavyweight counters capped sharper gains.

IT shares emerged as the biggest support for the market after recent underperformance. Infosys and TCS featured among the top gainers, supported by fresh buying ahead of the earnings season. Other notable gainers included HCLTech, Tech Mahindra and Hindalco, reflecting improved investor confidence in technology and metals.

On the losing side, Trent came under sharp selling pressure after disappointing investors with its latest business update. Kotak Mahindra Bank also remained under pressure, while Bajaj Finserv, Coal India and Max Healthcare traded lower, limiting broader market gains.

Market participants continued to monitor foreign institutional investor (FII) activity, which has remained supportive in recent sessions. Softer crude oil prices also boosted sentiment by easing concerns over inflation and India’s import bill. Analysts believe stable global markets and improving domestic liquidity have encouraged investors to selectively accumulate quality stocks.

Also Read: HDFC Bank rises over 2% on Q1 update