Author: Sreelatha M

Categories
Beyond

3 US lawmakers move to end 50% India tariffs

Three members of the US House of Representatives have introduced a resolution seeking to end steep tariffs of up to 50 percent on Indian imports, imposed during former President Donald Trump’s administration. The lawmakers, Deborah Ross, Marc Veasey, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, called the tariffs “illegal” and harmful to both American consumers and workers.

The tariffs were initially imposed under a national emergency declaration, with Trump citing concerns over India’s trade policies and purchases of Russian oil. These duties affected a wide range of Indian-made goods, raising their cost significantly in the US market. In August 2025, a secondary 25 percent duty was added, increasing the total tariff burden on imports from India to as high as 50 percent.

The resolution introduced by the three lawmakers aims to repeal these tariffs and cancel the national emergency powers used to justify them. It highlights the economic and strategic importance of the US-India relationship, including trade, investment, and supply chain links that benefit American industries and consumers.

Representative Deborah Ross noted that states such as North Carolina gain from trade and investment with India, which supports jobs and economic growth. She said the tariffs undermine these benefits, adding unnecessary costs for American families. Congressman Marc Veasey called India a key partner in culture, economics, and security, warning that the tariffs act as an extra tax on ordinary Americans already facing rising prices. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi emphasized that ending the duties would strengthen bilateral economic and security cooperation.

The lawmakers’ resolution also reflects a broader push by Congressional Democrats to challenge Trump-era use of emergency powers in trade matters. By restoring Congress’s authority over trade decisions, they hope to ensure that future trade policies are transparent, fair, and legally grounded.

If passed, the resolution would not only lift tariffs on Indian goods but also send a signal that the US is committed to maintaining strong trade and strategic ties with India, while protecting the interests of American workers and consumers.

Also Read: November inflation at 0.71%, still under RBI band

Categories
Beyond

November inflation at 0.71%, still under RBI band

India’s retail inflation rose to 0.71 percent in November, up from a record low of 0.25 percent in October, according to official data released on Thursday. Despite the increase, price pressures remain well below the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) comfort range of 2–6 percent, continuing a rare phase of subdued inflation.

The rise was mainly driven by food and fuel prices, which saw a slower decline compared to the previous month. While overall food prices are still lower than a year ago, the pace at which prices were falling moderated in November, leading to a slight uptick in headline inflation.

Food inflation stayed in negative territory at around minus 3.9 percent, indicating that food items, on average, were cheaper than last year. However, prices of vegetables, eggs, meat, fish and cereals showed some firming compared to October. Fuel and light inflation also edged higher, adding to the increase in the overall consumer price index.

Core inflation, which excludes food and fuel and reflects broader demand conditions, remained largely stable. This suggests that underlying price pressures in the economy are still muted, even as certain categories show early signs of recovery.

Economists say the low inflation reading gives the RBI greater flexibility on monetary policy, especially at a time when growth concerns persist. With inflation consistently staying below the lower end of the target band for several months, expectations of further interest rate cuts have strengthened.

However, experts caution that inflation may gradually rise in the coming months as the favourable base effect fades and demand improves. Seasonal changes, global commodity prices and domestic food supply conditions will play a key role in determining the inflation trajectory.

For now, November’s data reinforces the view that price stability remains intact, offering relief to consumers and policymakers alike. The RBI is expected to closely monitor inflation trends while balancing the need to support economic growth in the months ahead.

Also Read: SEBI clears Pranav Adani in Adani Green insider trading case

Categories
Corporate

SEBI clears Pranav Adani in Adani Green insider trading case

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has cleared Pranav Adani and two of his relatives of insider trading allegations linked to share transactions in Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL). The case pertained to trading activity that occurred ahead of AGEL’s acquisition of SB Energy in 2021.

Pranav Adani, a director in several Adani Group companies and the nephew of group chairman Gautam Adani, was accused of allegedly sharing unpublished price-sensitive information (UPSI) related to the SB Energy deal. SEBI had also examined whether his relatives, Kunal Dhanpalbhai Shah and Nrupal Dhanpalbhai Shah, traded AGEL shares using such confidential information.

In its final order, SEBI said it found no material evidence to substantiate the allegations. The regulator stated that there was nothing on record to indicate that Pranav Adani had communicated any non-public information to the two relatives. It also concluded that the trades carried out by the Shahs could not be linked to insider knowledge.

SEBI observed that key details of the SB Energy acquisition were already available in the public domain before the trades under scrutiny were executed. As such, the information did not qualify as unpublished price-sensitive information under insider trading norms.

The regulator further noted that the timing and pattern of the share transactions did not suggest any misuse of confidential information. Based on these findings, SEBI dismissed the show-cause notice issued in November 2023 and dropped all proceedings against the three individuals.

No penalties, restrictions, or further regulatory directions were imposed. The order effectively brings the insider trading investigation related to the Adani Green Energy–SB Energy transaction to a close.

The SB Energy acquisition was among the largest renewable energy deals in the country at the time and played a key role in expanding Adani Green Energy’s clean power portfolio. SEBI’s decision provides regulatory closure to the case and relief to Pranav Adani and his family members after months of regulatory scrutiny.

Also Read: Ozempic debuts in India for type 2 diabetes

Categories
Technology

Clair Obscur wins 9 awards at Game Awards 2025

At the Game Awards 2025 in Los Angeles, the French indie role‑playing game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 dominated the ceremony, taking home a record nine awards, including the prestigious Game of the Year. Developed by Sandfall Interactive and published with support from Kepler Interactive, the game led all nominees with 13 nods, converting most into wins across creative, technical, and performance categories.

The awards recognised Best Game Direction, Best Narrative, Best Art Direction, Best Score & Music, Best Independent Game, and Best Debut Indie Game, reflecting the title’s widespread acclaim. Actress Jennifer English won Best Performance for her work in the game, highlighting its strong storytelling and immersive character development.

The success of Clair Obscur underscores the growing influence of independent studios in the global gaming industry, where major franchises have traditionally dominated. Its combination of striking visuals, rich narrative, and a compelling musical score resonated strongly with the international jury of more than 150 media outlets and industry experts.

Other notable winners included Battlefield 6 for Best Audio Design, Doom: The Dark Ages for Innovation in Accessibility, and No Man’s Sky as Best Ongoing Game. South of Midnight earned the Games for Impact award, while Hades II and Hollow Knight: Silksong won in action and action/adventure categories. Family and sports games also featured prominently, with Donkey Kong Bananza named Best Family Game and Mario Kart World winning Best Sports/Racing Game.

The ceremony celebrated creativity, technical excellence, and cultural impact in gaming, blending awards with live performances and high-profile appearances. Once again, The Game Awards demonstrated its position as the premier showcase for the year’s most outstanding games, providing recognition for both blockbuster titles and independent gems alike.

With Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 setting a new benchmark for indie success, this year’s awards highlighted how innovation and storytelling can capture global attention and redefine industry standards.

Also Read: Elon Musk confirms SpaceX IPO in 2026

Categories
Technology

Elon Musk confirms SpaceX IPO in 2026

Elon Musk has confirmed that reports about SpaceX planning an initial public offering (IPO) in 2026 are accurate, signaling a major step for one of the world’s most valuable private companies. The billionaire entrepreneur’s statement has intensified investor interest, as SpaceX could become one of the largest IPOs in history.

Media reports suggest that SpaceX could be valued at $1 trillion or more, reflecting the rapid growth of its commercial and space ventures. The IPO is expected to raise tens of billions of dollars, which would provide capital for ambitious projects, including SpaceX’s ongoing Mars exploration plans and expansion of its Starlink satellite broadband network.

SpaceX has been at the forefront of commercial spaceflight for years, launching satellites, servicing the International Space Station, and pioneering reusable rockets. Its Starship program, designed for deep space missions, including potential trips to Mars, represents both an opportunity and a financial risk. Analysts note that while the company has strong revenue streams from satellite services and government contracts, space exploration remains a high-cost venture, and investors will need to weigh these risks before the IPO.

Industry experts say that a public listing could provide SpaceX with more financial flexibility to scale its operations while also offering early investors and employees a way to realize gains from their equity. However, some caution that the IPO could be affected by market conditions, government regulations, and the inherent uncertainties of large-scale space missions.

Musk’s confirmation has fueled speculation about the timing and structure of the IPO, with some reports suggesting that shares could be offered in phases, starting with SpaceX’s Starlink division, followed by the broader company. If successful, the IPO would not only be historic in size but also highlight the growing commercialization of space and investor appetite for high-growth technology ventures.

For now, the market is closely watching, as SpaceX prepares to take its next major step from a private aerospace pioneer to a publicly listed company with global attention.

Also Read: boAt financial gaps raise concerns before IPO

Categories
1 Minute-Read

Disney and OpenAI deal brings iconic characters to Sora

Disney and OpenAI have signed a major three-year agreement that will allow fans to create short AI-generated videos featuring more than 200 characters from Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars using OpenAI’s video model, Sora.

Disney will invest $1 billion in OpenAI and also use its technology to develop new products and improve Disney+ services. The partnership includes strict safeguards: no real actor voices or likenesses will be used.

Some user-created clips may be showcased on Disney+. The feature will launch in early 2026, marking one of the biggest collaborations between Hollywood and generative AI.

Categories
Corporate

Tata Steel’s west India expansion sparks mixed views from brokers

Tata Steel Ltd has announced big plans to grow its business in India,  including increasing production, setting up new plants, buying stakes in raw-material units, and partnering with other companies. However, brokerages have different opinions on how these plans will affect the company’s stock in the near term.

The company plans to raise production at Neelachal Ispat Nigam Ltd in Odisha by 4.8 million tonnes and set up a low-carbon steel demonstration plant in Jamshedpur. New facilities in Odisha and Maharashtra will make higher-value steel products for construction and automotive industries.

To secure raw materials, Tata Steel will buy a 50.01% stake in Thriveni Pellets Private Ltd for around ₹636 crore. Thriveni owns a 4-million-tonne pellet plant and a long slurry pipeline in Odisha, which will help Tata Steel ensure steady iron ore supply.

Tata Steel also signed a non-binding deal with Lloyds Metals & Energy to explore mining and steel projects in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. This could include building a greenfield steel plant with a capacity of six million tonnes, marking Tata Steel’s first major presence in western India.

Brokerages have different views on the impact of these moves. Motilal Oswal and JM Financial recommend buying the stock, citing growth potential and stronger demand. Elara Capital suggests accumulating the stock, noting profits may be lower in the short term due to soft steel prices. Nuvama Institutional Equities rates it as “hold,” pointing to possible margin pressure and uncertainty about capital spending timelines.

Analysts say the expansion will strengthen Tata Steel in the long run by adding capacity, downstream products, and sustainable technology. However, steel price swings and execution risks could affect short-term results.

Tata Steel’s expansion shows a focus on long-term growth, integrating raw materials, and reaching new regions, while investors balance optimism about growth with caution over market conditions and project execution.

Also Read: Microsoft CEO builds AI Cricket App at leisure time

Categories
Corporate

Sensex rallies 450 Points, Nifty above 26,000

Indian stock markets closed higher on Friday, bouncing back after recent losses. The BSE Sensex rose about 450 points, while the Nifty 50 crossed 26,000, showing renewed investor confidence.

Tata Steel led the gainers, rising around 3 percent. Other top performers included HCL Tech and Infosys, while Hindalco and ICICI Bank were among the losers.

The rally came on the back of positive sentiment in domestic markets, supported by gains in metals and IT stocks. Investors also reacted to global cues, including a rebound in U.S. markets.

Despite some profit-booking and foreign fund outflows, the overall trend remained positive, with most sectors ending the session in green.

Also Read: Sensex jumps 300 Points, Nifty moves above 25,950

Categories
Leaders

Microsoft CEO builds AI Cricket App at leisure time

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has created his own cricket analysis app using artificial intelligence. He built it during his free time over the Thanksgiving holiday, combining his love for technology and cricket.

At an event in Bangalore, Nadella showed how the app works. It can analyze players and teams, help debate choices, and even pick an all-time Indian Test cricket team. Nadella joked that using the app made him want to join Microsoft’s Copilot AI team.

The app, built on Nadella’s Deep Research AI, explains its reasoning and shows where experts might agree or disagree on cricket selections.

Nadella is also a cricket investor. He has stakes in the London Spirit team in the UK’s Hundred league and the Seattle Orcas, a T20 franchise near Microsoft’s headquarters.

This project shows how AI can be used not just for business but also for fun and sports analysis, reflecting Nadella’s personal interests and tech expertise.

Also Read: NITI Aayog targets corporate bond growth

Categories
Beyond

42 US states warn tech giants on unsafe AI chatbots

Forty-two US state attorneys general have raised a serious concern with regard to the world’s most widely used AI chatbots are sometimes giving people wrong, confusing, or even harmful answers. They have written a joint letter to major companies including Microsoft, Google, Apple, Meta and OpenAI, warning them to fix these problems quickly.

The attorneys general said they are especially worried about how these chatbots talk to people who are sad, stressed or struggling with mental health issues. In several reported cases, when users expressed fear, confusion or emotional distress, the chatbot’s answers made things worse. Instead of correcting false beliefs or offering safe guidance, some systems encouraged the user’s harmful thoughts. In their letter, the officials described these responses as “delusional” or “sycophantic”,  meaning the AI simply agrees with a user, even when the user is clearly wrong or unsafe.

The states said this behaviour is dangerous and may even break consumer protection laws. They pointed out that millions of people now rely on AI tools for advice sometimes more than they rely on friends, family or professionals. This puts a big responsibility on tech companies to ensure their products do not cause harm.

The group has asked the companies to take several important steps. First, they want stronger safety systems that stop chatbots from giving harmful or misleading answers. Second, they want independent experts to test these AI models and openly share the results. Third, they want clear warnings for users so people know the limitations of AI and understand that chatbots can make mistakes.

The attorneys general have given the companies until mid-January 2026 to explain what actions they will take. They also said they will not hesitate to act if companies fail to protect users.

This joint warning shows how quickly AI has become part of everyday life and how concerned governments are about its risks. While AI can be helpful, state leaders say it must be safe, trustworthy and designed to protect people, especially children and those who are emotionally vulnerable.

Also Read: ₹148 Lakh crore wealth boom for India’s top firms