Author: Sreelatha M

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Beyond

Trump sets quantum cybersecurity deadlines

The United States has launched a major effort to strengthen its digital defences against future cyber threats posed by quantum computing, with President Donald Trump signing a new executive order that sets firm deadlines for the adoption of post-quantum cryptography across federal systems.

The move comes amid growing concerns that powerful quantum computers could eventually crack many of today’s widely used encryption methods, potentially exposing sensitive government, business and personal data. Cybersecurity experts have long warned about a future scenario known as “harvest now, decrypt later,” where attackers collect encrypted information today in the hope of breaking it once quantum technology becomes powerful enough.

Under the new directive, federal agencies will be required to accelerate their transition to post-quantum cryptography, a new generation of encryption designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers. The order establishes clear timelines for protecting critical government systems and high-value digital assets over the coming years.

The White House said the initiative is aimed at safeguarding national security, critical infrastructure and the broader digital economy. Officials warned that adversaries are investing heavily in advanced computing technologies, making it essential for the US to prepare before quantum threats become a reality.

Alongside the cybersecurity measures, the administration also unveiled a broader quantum technology strategy focused on accelerating research and development. The plan includes efforts to advance next-generation quantum computers, strengthen domestic innovation and maintain US leadership in a field increasingly viewed as strategically important.

The executive order reflects a growing recognition that quantum computing represents both an opportunity and a security challenge. While the technology promises breakthroughs in science, medicine and artificial intelligence, it could also undermine traditional cybersecurity protections if preparations are delayed.

By setting clear deadlines and accelerating the shift to quantum-resistant security, Washington hopes to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure that critical data remains protected in the decades ahead.

Also Read: China leads supercomputer rankings after 9 years

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Leaders

Realme India CEO Michael Guo resigns

Realme India is set for a significant leadership transition after CEO Michael Guo stepped down amid a broader restructuring exercise led by parent company Oppo. The move comes as Oppo pushes ahead with plans to bring Realme and OnePlus closer under a unified operating structure aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

According to company sources, Michael Guo resigned due to health-related reasons after spending nearly eight years working on Realme’s India business. Guo took charge of the India operations in 2023 following the departure of former Realme India head Madhav Sheth and played a key role in expanding the brand’s presence in one of its most important global markets.

His exit comes at a time when Oppo is reshaping its smartphone business strategy. The Chinese technology giant is reportedly working towards managing Oppo, Realme and OnePlus as part of a coordinated ecosystem rather than as separate competing brands. Under the new structure, Realme is expected to gradually transition from operating as an independent smartphone brand to functioning more like a product series within the larger Oppo ecosystem.

As part of the transition, Chase Xu, Vice President of Realme Global, is expected to oversee the India business. Industry observers believe the integration could help Oppo reduce operational overlap, improve resource sharing and strengthen supply-chain management at a time when smartphone makers are facing rising competition and margin pressures.

The restructuring is also expected to lead to workforce rationalisation over the coming months, with duplicate roles across teams likely to be reviewed. Reports suggest that some employees have already exited as the company begins aligning operations with the new structure.

For consumers, the changes may not be immediately visible. Realme and OnePlus are expected to continue operating as distinct brands in the market, with separate product identities and customer communities. However, behind the scenes, product development, distribution and support functions are likely to become increasingly integrated.

The development marks one of the biggest organisational changes for Realme since its launch in India and signals Oppo’s intent to build a more unified smartphone ecosystem as competition intensifies across price segments.

Also Read: Sensex rallies over 650 points, Nifty tops 24,000

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Corporate

Sensex drops 800 points, Nifty closes below 23,850

Markets witnessed a sharp sell-off on Tuesday, with the benchmark Sensex plunging nearly 900 points and the Nifty slipping below the 24,000 mark as investors rushed to book profits amid weak economic data and concerns over global interest rates.

The BSE Sensex closed around 76,200, down 1.16%, while the NSE Nifty 50 fell by a similar margin. The decline came after a strong rally in recent sessions and was led largely by information technology and metal stocks.

Among the biggest losers were Infosys, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro and HCL Technologies, as concerns over slowing global technology spending and expectations of higher-for-longer US interest rates weighed on sentiment. The Nifty IT index dropped more than 2%, making it the worst-performing sector of the day.

Metal stocks also came under pressure as global commodity prices weakened. Investors were further unsettled by data showing India’s private-sector growth slowing to a three-month low in June, with services activity touching a 17-month low. Concerns over an uneven monsoon also added to market nervousness.

Not all sectors ended in the red. Pharmaceutical stocks emerged as safe havens, with Sun Pharma, Cipla and Dr Reddy’s Laboratories attracting buying interest. The pharma index outperformed the broader market as investors shifted towards defensive sectors amid uncertainty.

Market experts said profit-booking after the recent rally, foreign investor caution and worries over the US Federal Reserve’s policy outlook combined to trigger the broad-based decline. A stronger US dollar and weakness across Asian markets further dampened sentiment.

Despite the sharp fall, analysts believe domestic market fundamentals remain relatively resilient. However, investors are expected to closely track upcoming economic data, monsoon progress and global central bank signals for direction in the coming weeks. For now, Tuesday’s session served as a reminder that market optimism can quickly give way to caution when economic and global uncertainties resurface.

Also Read: Renault begins exporting India-made Duster to South Africa

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Corporate

SpaceX discussions fuel 35% rally in Blue Cloud

Shares of Hyderabad-based Blue Cloud Softech Solutions witnessed a sharp rally after the company announced plans to explore artificial intelligence (AI) opportunities in collaboration with SpaceX, drawing significant attention from investors.

The stock gained nearly 35% over two trading sessions, reflecting market enthusiasm around the company’s potential involvement in emerging AI-driven initiatives. The announcement has put the small-cap technology firm in the spotlight as investors look for companies positioned to benefit from the global AI boom.

According to the company, discussions are underway to explore opportunities that combine artificial intelligence capabilities with advanced space and satellite technologies. While the collaboration remains at an exploratory stage, the association with SpaceX has generated optimism about future growth prospects.

Blue Cloud Softech said it is evaluating ways to leverage AI solutions across sectors that could benefit from satellite connectivity, data analytics and next-generation digital infrastructure. The company believes AI will play a critical role in transforming industries ranging from communications and logistics to enterprise services.

The development comes at a time when AI-related stocks are attracting strong investor interest globally. Market participants have been quick to reward companies announcing strategic initiatives linked to artificial intelligence, especially those involving globally recognised technology players.

 Blue Cloud Softech sees opportunities in developing AI-powered solutions that can support businesses and governments as demand for intelligent automation continues to rise. The SpaceX-linked discussions have provided a significant visibility boost. As the company explores new technological avenues, investors will closely monitor developments to see whether these early conversations translate into concrete projects and long-term business growth.

Despite the uncertainty, the market reaction highlights the growing excitement surrounding AI-related opportunities. Companies that demonstrate a clear strategy for participating in the evolving AI ecosystem are increasingly attracting investor attention.

Investors responded positively to the news, driving a sharp increase in trading volumes and share prices. However, analysts note that the discussions are still in the early stages and any commercial benefits will depend on how the proposed initiatives progress over time.

Also Read: Kirloskar oil jumps 31% after AI contract

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Corporate

Kirloskar oil jumps 31% after AI contract

Shares of Kirloskar Oil Engines continued their strong upward momentum, extending a two-day rally after the company announced a significant order linked to India’s fast-growing artificial intelligence (AI) data centre sector.

The stock surged more than 30% over two trading sessions, drawing strong investor interest after the company secured a large order to supply power generation systems for an AI-focused data centre project. The development has reinforced expectations that Kirloskar Oil Engines could emerge as a key beneficiary of rising investments in digital infrastructure.

According to the company, the order involves supplying advanced backup power solutions for a data centre designed to support AI workloads. As demand for AI applications grows, data centres require reliable and uninterrupted power, creating new business opportunities for equipment manufacturers and power solution providers.

Investors reacted positively to the announcement, pushing the stock sharply higher. Market participants view the contract as a validation of Kirloskar Oil Engines’ capabilities in serving high-growth sectors beyond its traditional industrial and power-generation markets.

Brokerage firm JM Financial also maintained a positive outlook on the stock, citing the company’s improving business prospects and potential gains from emerging opportunities in data centres and infrastructure. Analysts believe the order could strengthen revenue visibility and enhance the company’s position in a rapidly expanding segment.

India’s data centre industry has been witnessing significant investment as cloud computing, artificial intelligence and digital services drive demand for computing capacity. Reliable power systems are considered critical infrastructure for these facilities, where even short disruptions can lead to substantial operational losses.

For Kirloskar Oil Engines, the contract represents more than just a new order. It signals the company’s entry into a promising growth area at a time when AI-led investments are reshaping technology and infrastructure spending globally.

The rally in the stock also reflects broader investor enthusiasm for companies linked to the AI ecosystem.

Also Read: Jumpp enters UPI arena after NPCI greenlight

Categories
Beyond

India may stay away from sugar exports

India is unlikely to return to the global sugar export market anytime soon, as worsening weather risks and rising ethanol production are expected to keep domestic sugar supplies under pressure for several years.

Industry officials, traders and analysts say the combination of a developing El Niño weather pattern and the government’s push for ethanol blending is reducing the amount of sugar available for export. The situation has triggered concerns across the sugar sector, with fears that India could even become a sugar importer within the next few years if production continues to lag demand.

India was once the world’s second-largest sugar exporter, shipping an average of 6.8 million tonnes annually in the five seasons leading up to 2022-23. However, exports have sharply declined. This season, shipments were limited to about 800,000 tonnes before restrictions were tightened to protect domestic supplies.

The biggest concern is the weather. A strengthening El Niño is threatening to weaken monsoon rainfall, delay sugarcane planting and reduce crop yields in key producing states. Lower cane availability could significantly affect sugar production over the next three seasons.

At the same time, a growing share of sugarcane is being diverted towards ethanol production as India pursues its clean-fuel and energy-security goals. While the ethanol programme helps reduce dependence on imported crude oil, it also leaves less cane available for sugar manufacturing.

Current estimates suggest India’s sugar output could fall to around 27.9 million tonnes, below annual domestic consumption of roughly 28.5 million tonnes. If this gap persists, inventories may drop to multi-year lows, leaving little room for exports and increasing the possibility of imports by 2027-28,  something India has not needed in nearly a decade.

For consumers, there is no immediate cause for alarm, but the tightening supply outlook is being closely watched. For global markets, India’s reduced presence could keep sugar prices elevated, while farmers and millers brace for an uncertain period shaped by climate pressures and shifting energy priorities.

Also Read: CRED founder Kunal Shah takes charge of WhatsApp

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1 Minute-Read

AI influencers drive marketing campaigns

Brands across the world are increasingly turning to AI-generated influencers to promote products on social media, reshaping the digital marketing landscape. These virtual personalities can create content around the clock, speak multiple languages and cost significantly less than human influencers.

Companies say AI influencers offer greater control over messaging and branding, while helping reach wider audiences. However, critics have raised concerns about transparency, authenticity and the potential impact on consumer trust.

Experts believe AI influencers will continue gaining popularity, but stress the need for clear disclosure rules to ensure users know when content is created by artificial intelligence.

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1 Minute-Read

CDSCO cracks down on HCG ethics panel

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has suspended the ethics committee of HCG Hospital, Bengaluru, for two years over alleged violations in the oversight of clinical trials.

The action follows an inspection that reportedly uncovered deficiencies in regulatory compliance and ethical review procedures. While the committee cannot approve new clinical studies during the suspension period, it has been instructed to continue monitoring ongoing trials and ensure participant safety.

The regulator’s move highlights growing scrutiny of clinical research practices in India and reinforces the need for strict adherence to ethical standards, transparency and patient protection in medical studies.

Categories
Leaders

Apple bets on design revival under John Ternus

Apple is preparing for a significant leadership transition, and industry observers believe the company’s next chapter could be shaped by a renewed emphasis on product design. As John Ternus gets ready to succeed Tim Cook as chief executive officer on September 1, reports suggest one of his top priorities will be revitalising Apple’s once-celebrated design culture.

According to technology analyst Mark Gurman, Ternus is expected to place greater focus on product engineering, industrial design and innovation, areas that many believe have received less attention in recent years as Apple concentrated on operational efficiency and financial performance.

For decades, Apple’s design team was considered the creative force behind iconic products such as the iMac, iPod, iPhone and iPad. However, the department’s influence reportedly declined following the departure of legendary designer Jony Ive and several other senior design leaders. Over time, the team lost some of its prominence within Apple’s leadership structure.

Ternus, who currently serves as Apple’s senior vice-president of hardware engineering, is already familiar with the challenges facing the design organisation. Reports indicate that he assumed direct oversight of the design group last year, signalling his intention to play a more active role in shaping Apple’s future products.

The incoming CEO to strengthen the design department’s position within the company and potentially appoint new leadership to help restore its influence. The goal, according to reports, is to ensure that design once again becomes a central pillar of Apple’s product strategy rather than a supporting function.

The anticipated shift comes at a crucial time for Apple as competition intensifies across smartphones, artificial intelligence, wearables and next-generation computing devices. Industry experts believe distinctive design and user experience could play a key role in helping the company stand out in an increasingly crowded technology market.

While no immediate product changes have been announced, expectations are growing that the Ternus era could bring a stronger emphasis on bold ideas, fresh aesthetics and breakthrough innovation.

Also Read: Sun Pharma buys Innovcare In ₹271-cr deal

Categories
Beyond

CCPA penalises Storia, Mrs Bector over product claims

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed penalties of ₹1 lakh each on Storia Foods and Mrs Bector Food Specialities for allegedly making misleading claims about their products. The action comes as regulators tighten scrutiny of advertising practices and seek greater transparency for consumers.

According to the consumer watchdog, both companies promoted certain products using “100%” claims that could potentially mislead consumers regarding the nature, composition or quality of the products. The CCPA observed that such claims may create an impression that products are entirely natural or free from additives, even when packaging disclosures indicate otherwise.

The authority said advertisements must provide accurate and complete information so that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions. It noted that broad claims such as “100%” should be backed by clear evidence and should not exaggerate product attributes in a manner that could influence consumer behaviour unfairly.

As part of its order, the CCPA directed the companies to discontinue or modify the disputed advertisements and ensure future promotional material complies with consumer protection guidelines. The regulator also instructed them to issue corrective disclosures to address concerns arising from the advertising claims.

The case highlights the increasing focus on marketing practices in India’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. In recent years, regulators have intensified efforts to curb misleading advertisements, particularly those involving health, nutrition and product purity claims. Authorities believe consumers should not be left with inaccurate impressions because of promotional language that lacks adequate clarification.

Consumer rights advocates welcomed the move, arguing that stricter enforcement helps improve accountability and encourages responsible advertising. They say shoppers often rely on packaging and advertisements while making purchasing decisions, making transparency essential.

For companies, the order serves as a reminder that marketing messages must be supported by verifiable facts and presented in a manner that does not create confusion. Industry experts expect regulators to continue monitoring advertising claims across sectors as consumer awareness grows.

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