Author: Sreelatha M

Categories
Corporate

HDFC Bank rises over 2% on Q1 update

Shares of HDFC Bank climbed more than 2% on Monday after the country’s largest private sector lender reported a stronger-than-expected business update for the April-June quarter of FY27. The upbeat numbers reassured investors about the bank’s steady growth, helping the stock outperform the broader market.

HDFC Bank reported gross advances of around ₹27.3 lakh crore as of June 30, marking a 12.7% year-on-year increase. On a sequential basis, loans grew by about 2.5%, reflecting healthy credit demand across segments.

The bank also posted strong growth in deposits. Total deposits rose 16.2% from a year ago to nearly ₹28.1 lakh crore, while quarterly growth stood at around 5.1%. The improvement was driven by higher customer deposits and continued focus on strengthening the bank’s funding base.

One of the biggest positives was the rise in CASA (Current Account and Savings Account) deposits, which increased to about ₹9.8 lakh crore. Although the CASA ratio remained under pressure at around 34.9%, analysts said the steady improvement in low-cost deposits was encouraging.

Investors welcomed the update as it suggested that HDFC Bank continues to deliver stable growth despite a challenging interest rate environment and intense competition in the banking sector. The strong deposit growth also eased concerns over funding costs following the bank’s merger with HDFC Ltd.

The positive business update lifted market sentiment, with HDFC Bank emerging among the top gainers on the benchmark indices during Monday’s trading session. Banking stocks also received support after several private lenders reported healthy quarterly business numbers.

Also Read: Centre orders Meta to remove CSAM Ads

Categories
Technology

Centre orders Meta to remove CSAM Ads

The Centre has issued a notice to Meta after reports found Instagram carrying advertisements linked to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The government has directed the company to remove the content immediately and strengthen its systems to prevent such violations.

The action follows an investigation that uncovered advertisements promoting AI-generated nude images of children and directing users to platforms allegedly hosting illegal child abuse content. The findings raised serious concerns over the effectiveness of Meta’s ad review process.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has sought an explanation from Meta and warned the company to comply with Indian laws governing online safety. Officials said social media platforms are responsible for preventing the spread of illegal content and must act swiftly against such material.

Meta said it has strict policies against child exploitation and is investigating the issue. The company said it removes content that violates its rules and continues to invest in technology and human review to detect harmful material.

The incident has renewed concerns over online child safety and increased pressure on technology companies to strengthen content moderation and advertising checks.

Also Read: Sensex gains 521 points, Nifty tops 24,400

Categories
Leaders

Advertising veteran Jishnu Sen passes away

Jishnu Sen, a well-known advertising and marketing professional and former CEO of Grey India, has passed away after a prolonged illness. He was widely respected in the industry for his leadership, experience and support for young talent.

Sen worked in advertising and marketing for more than 30 years. He started his career at JWT and later joined Young & Rubicam, where he held important roles in India, Singapore, Hong Kong and the United States. During his career, he worked with several leading national and international brands.

He is best remembered for his time at Grey India. After joining the agency, he became Chief Operating Officer and later President and CEO. Under his leadership, the company expanded its business and strengthened its reputation for creative excellence.

After leaving Grey India in 2014, Sen moved into senior marketing and advisory roles with companies including Essar Telecom Retail, Big Bazaar, Porter, Bergner India and DealShare. In his later years, he worked closely with startups, helping them build brands and grow their businesses.

The news of his passing was shared by his cousin, who said Sen remained full of energy and optimism despite battling illness for the past few years. Soon after, tributes poured in from across the advertising and marketing industry. Former colleagues and friends remembered him as a kind leader, a trusted mentor and someone who always encouraged fresh ideas and young talent.

Jishnu Sen’s contribution to Indian advertising will be remembered for years to come. Beyond the brands and businesses he helped build, he leaves behind a legacy of leadership, mentorship and creativity that inspired an entire generation of advertising professionals.

Also Read: OPEC+ approves higher August oil output increase

Categories
Beyond

Maharashtra bans 3 toxic beauty products

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned the sale and distribution of three cosmetic products after laboratory tests detected dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals, including mercury and lead. Officials said the products were being sold illegally and posed a serious health risk to consumers.

Among the banned products is a Pakistan-made fairness cream, which was found to contain high levels of mercury, a toxic substance that can cause severe health complications with prolonged use. The FDA also detected unsafe levels of lead in two other beauty products during routine testing.

The action follows an inspection and sampling drive carried out by the state regulator to ensure the safety and quality of cosmetic products available in the market. Officials said the products were not authorised for sale in Maharashtra and had entered the market through illegal channels.

According to the FDA, prolonged exposure to mercury through cosmetic products can damage the skin, kidneys and nervous system. Lead exposure, meanwhile, may affect the brain, liver and other vital organs, particularly in children and pregnant women. Health experts warn that repeated use of products containing these toxic metals can lead to long-term health problems.

The regulator has directed manufacturers, distributors and retailers to immediately stop selling the identified products and remove existing stocks from the market. Enforcement teams have also intensified inspections to identify shops and suppliers dealing in unauthorised cosmetics.

Consumers have been advised to avoid purchasing fairness creams and other beauty products from unverified sources or without proper labelling. Officials urged buyers to check whether products carry valid manufacturing details and regulatory approvals before use.

The FDA said it will continue market surveillance and testing to prevent the circulation of unsafe cosmetic products. Authorities have also appealed to the public to report suspicious or unlabelled beauty products being sold in local markets.

Also Read: Sanand emerges with ₹7,600-cr chip plant

Categories
Beyond

Gold holds at ₹1,47,830, Silver near ₹2,37,250

MCX gold futures were down 0.01% at ₹1,47,830 per 10 grams, while MCX silver futures slipped 0.19% to ₹2,37,250 per kilogram. The marginal decline reflects cautious trading as investors await fresh global economic cues before taking fresh positions.

In the retail market, gold prices remained largely unchanged. The 22K gold was available at ₹1,34,490 per 10 grams. Eighteen-carat (18K) gold was retailing at ₹1,10,040 per 10 grams, offering buyers a relatively affordable option compared with higher-purity variants.

Retail silver prices also remained broadly stable across major markets, although prices varied slightly from one city to another depending on local taxes and logistics costs.

Bullion prices continue to be influenced by global economic developments, including expectations surrounding interest rate decisions by major central banks, movements in the US dollar and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. While gold remains a preferred safe-haven asset during periods of market volatility, a stronger dollar and higher bond yields have capped sharp gains in recent sessions.

Jewellers say customer enquiries have remained steady despite elevated prices. While some buyers are delaying large purchases in anticipation of a price correction, demand for lightweight jewellery and investment-grade coins continues to remain healthy. The upcoming festive and wedding season is also expected to provide further support to physical demand.

Also Read: Sensex gains over 300 points, Nifty tops 24,300

Categories
Corporate

Sensex gains over 300 points, Nifty tops 24,300

Markets opened the week on a strong note, extending their winning streak for the fourth consecutive session as positive domestic cues and sustained foreign fund inflows lifted investor sentiment. The BSE Sensex surged more than 300 points in early trade, while the NSE Nifty climbed above the 24,300 mark, driven by broad-based buying in heavyweight stocks.

Banking and financial shares led the rally, with HDFC Bank emerging as one of the biggest gainers after reporting robust business updates for the June quarter. Reliance Industries, Bajaj Finance, Axis Bank and ICICI Bank also traded higher, providing strong support to the benchmark indices. The gains in these heavyweight stocks helped offset weakness in a few sectors and kept the broader market firmly in positive territory.

On the other hand, Trent, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Titan Company, Asian Paints and Sun Pharma featured among the top losers during the morning session, witnessing profit booking after recent gains. Despite the decline in these counters, buying in banking and select large-cap stocks ensured the market remained comfortably in the green.

Investor confidence was boosted by the revival of the southwest monsoon after a brief slowdown. Improved rainfall has eased concerns over agricultural output and rural demand, strengthening expectations of healthy economic activity in the coming months. Adding to the positive mood, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) continued to remain net buyers, reflecting renewed confidence in Indian equities.

Market experts believe the combination of improving monsoon conditions, resilient domestic fundamentals and steady foreign investment flows is supporting the ongoing rally. Expectations of healthy corporate earnings and stable macroeconomic indicators have also encouraged investors to increase exposure to equities.

Also Read: PM Modi launches mega Rajasthan projects

Categories
Beyond

Centre plans new Gold Scheme to cut imports

The Centre is preparing to roll out a revamped Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) in a fresh attempt to bring idle household gold into the formal financial system and reduce India’s dependence on costly imports.

India is one of the world’s largest consumers of gold, with households estimated to hold thousands of tonnes of the precious metal in the form of jewellery, coins and bars. Much of this gold remains unused, while the country continues to import large quantities every year, adding pressure on the trade deficit and foreign exchange reserves.

The proposed overhaul seeks to make the scheme more attractive for households by simplifying procedures and improving participation. The government is also exploring ways to strengthen the role of banks and other financial institutions in collecting, storing and monetising deposited gold.

Under the existing Gold Monetisation Scheme, individuals can deposit their gold with authorised institutions and earn returns instead of keeping it locked away at home. The deposited gold can then be refined and reused, reducing the need for fresh imports.

Officials believe the revised scheme could address some of the shortcomings of the earlier programme, which saw limited public participation despite its potential benefits. Complex procedures, lower awareness and concerns over parting with family jewellery were among the reasons many people stayed away.

The government hopes a simpler and more flexible framework will encourage more households to participate, helping mobilise idle gold while supporting domestic demand through recycled supplies.

A successful revamp could also benefit the economy by lowering import bills, improving resource utilisation and strengthening the country’s external finances. It is believed that wider participation would create a more sustainable gold ecosystem while giving households an opportunity to earn returns on assets that otherwise remain unused.

The revised scheme is expected to be announced soon, with policymakers aiming to strike a balance between preserving the emotional value of gold ownership and encouraging greater financial participation.

Also Read: Centre summons Meta over Instagram Ads

Categories
Technology

Amazon starts Prime Day sale

Amazon’s Prime Day Sale 2026 has gone live, offering exclusive discounts for Prime members across a wide range of products, including smartphones, laptops, smart TVs, home appliances and wearable devices. The annual shopping event is expected to attract millions of buyers looking to upgrade their gadgets at reduced prices.

One of the biggest highlights of this year’s sale is the steep price cut on premium smartphones. Flagship models, including Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, are available at significantly lower prices, with additional savings through bank offers, exchange bonuses and no-cost EMI options. Buyers can also find attractive deals on devices from Apple, OnePlus, Xiaomi and iQOO.

The sale also features discounts on laptops from leading brands such as HP, Lenovo, Dell and ASUS, making it a good opportunity for students and professionals planning to purchase a new computer. Gaming laptops and premium ultrabooks are among the products receiving notable price reductions.

Apart from personal gadgets, Amazon is offering deals on smart TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners and kitchen appliances. Smart home devices, including Alexa-enabled speakers, security cameras and streaming gadgets, are also available at discounted prices.

Customers can maximise their savings through instant bank discounts, exchange offers and cashback benefits on eligible payment methods. Several products are also bundled with extended warranties and attractive financing options.

With limited-time offers and flash deals running throughout the event, shoppers are being encouraged to compare prices and purchase early before stocks run out.

Also Read: Gold at ₹1.46 lakh, Silver at ₹2.34 lakh

Categories
Beyond

Gold at ₹1.46 lakh, Silver at ₹2.34 lakh

The sharp decline in gold and silver prices over the past month has caught the attention of investors looking for attractive entry points. While the correction has made precious metals more affordable, market watchers say the focus should remain on long-term investing rather than chasing short-term gains.

Gold is currently trading at ₹1,45,789 per 10 grams, while silver stands at ₹2,33,701 per kg on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX). Over the past month, gold prices have fallen 5.65%, slipping from ₹1,54,529 per 10 grams, while silver has dropped 10.78% from ₹2,61,939 per kg.

The decline comes after a strong rally earlier this year. Profit booking by investors, easing global tensions and changing expectations over interest rate cuts in the United States have all contributed to the recent correction in bullion prices.

Despite the fall, the broader outlook for gold remains encouraging. Strong demand from central banks, concerns over the global economy and expectations of easier monetary policy are expected to continue supporting prices over the long term.

Financial advisers believe the current dip should be seen as an opportunity to accumulate gradually instead of making large one-time investments. Buying in smaller quantities over a period of time can help investors manage market volatility while averaging their purchase cost.

Silver is expected to remain more volatile than gold because of its dual role as both an investment asset and an industrial metal. While it offers the potential for higher returns, it is also more vulnerable to sharp price movements. Investors are therefore advised to build exposure in phases rather than investing aggressively.

Also Read: ITC launches sugar-free cola

Categories
Corporate

ITC launches sugar-free cola

ITC has stepped into India’s cola market with the launch of Sunfeast Sip N Fizz, a sugar-free carbonated drink made with tender coconut water. The launch marks the company’s entry into the fast-growing cola segment as it expands its beverages portfolio with healthier and premium offerings.

The new drink combines the familiar taste of cola with the goodness of tender coconut water, targeting consumers who want a refreshing beverage without added sugar. Priced at ₹60 for a 250-ml can, the product is being introduced through quick-commerce platforms before a wider rollout across the country.

With Sip N Fizz, ITC is entering a market dominated by global players Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, while also joining Indian brands that are looking to strengthen their presence in the soft drinks category. However, instead of competing on price, the company is focusing on innovation and premium positioning.

ITC says it plans to expand the Sip N Fizz range with more flavours, formats and pack sizes in the coming months as it looks to tap the growing demand for healthier beverages.

The launch is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its FMCG business by introducing products that match changing consumer preferences. In recent years, ITC has expanded its beverage portfolio with fruit-based drinks, coconut water and protein beverages under brands such as Sunfeast and B Natural.

Also Read: DMart slides 5% as Q1 disappoints