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India’s GDP likely to grow 7.4% in FY26

India’s economy is expected to grow at 7.4 percent in the financial year 2025‑26, according to the government’s first advance GDP estimates. This is higher than last year’s growth of 6.5 percent, signaling a strong economic recovery.

The nominal GDP, which factors in price changes, is projected to rise by 8 percent. The services sector is leading the growth, driven by finance, real estate, trade, transport, and communication. Manufacturing and construction are expected to expand around 7 percent, while agriculture may grow at about 3.1 percent.

Despite global economic challenges, strong domestic demand, investments, and supportive policy measures are helping the economy stay on track. These estimates will guide the upcoming Union Budget, offering a roadmap for fiscal planning in the year ahead.

This early outlook reflects India’s resilience and continued momentum, keeping the country on track for steady growth in FY26.

Also Read: Trump eyes Greenland, military option possible

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Trent revenue ₹5,220 cr, shares drop 8%

Tata Group’s retail arm, Trent Ltd, saw its shares fall over 8% after its Q3 FY26 update. The company reported ₹5,220 crore in standalone revenue, up 17% year-on-year, but growth was flat sequentially and below some analyst estimates.

Trent expanded its footprint, adding 17 Westside and 48 Zudio stores during the quarter. While Morgan Stanley maintained an overweight rating, other analysts flagged slowing demand and rising competition in the retail sector.

Investor caution led to a market value drop of roughly ₹13,000 crore, highlighting concerns over near-term performance despite overall revenue gains.

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Corporate

Sensex rests 102 points lower, Nifty below 26,150

Indian equity markets closed lower on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, as profit-taking and selective sector weakness weighed on investor sentiment. The BSE Sensex dropped 102 points to settle at 87,654, while the Nifty 50 declined below 26,150, marking the third consecutive session of losses.

Selling pressure was concentrated in auto, metal, and financial stocks, while global cues remained cautious. Market participants adopted a wait-and-watch stance ahead of key corporate earnings and macroeconomic data, keeping trading range-bound.

Among top gainers, Titan Company led the rally on robust demand outlook, supported by select IT and pharmaceutical stocks benefiting from defensive buying.

Lagging stocks included Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, which dragged the auto sector lower, while Bajaj Finance and Bajaj Finserv faced pressure in the financial segment.

Market breadth was negative, with declining stocks outpacing advancers, reflecting cautious positioning by institutional investors. Sector rotation favored technology, pharmaceuticals, and consumption-led names, as traders balanced risk-off sentiment with selective accumulation.

Analysts noted that short-term volatility is likely to continue, with investor focus remaining on earnings updates, global developments, and domestic macroeconomic cues. They advised monitoring sector-specific movements and global market trends before making fresh commitments.

Also Read:: Sensex down 150, Nifty under 26,150

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Corporate

Meesho shares slide 5% as ₹2,000 cr equity frees up

Shares of Indian e-commerce company Meesho fell sharply on Wednesday, dropping as much as 5% and hitting the lower circuit limit on the BSE. The decline came after the expiry of a one-month IPO lock-in period, which allowed nearly 110 million shares, valued at around ₹2,000 crore, to become freely tradable in the market.

The lock-in period, imposed on certain shareholders following Meesho’s recent public listing, restricts them from selling their shares immediately after the IPO. Once this period ends, these investors are free to sell their holdings, often increasing the supply of shares in the market and putting pressure on the stock price. Analysts say this is a normal market phenomenon after lock-in expiries and does not reflect the company’s long-term performance.

Despite the sharp drop, Meesho’s shares remain well above its IPO price of ₹111 per share. The stock had reached post-listing highs in December 2025, but the current correction has brought it down about 32% from those peaks. Market observers note that while some investors may sell immediately, others could hold onto their shares, meaning the market may stabilize in the coming days.

Financial analysts maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook on Meesho, citing its strong growth potential in India’s expanding e-commerce sector. They suggest that the stock’s short-term volatility due to lock-in expiry is not unusual, and long-term prospects remain positive given the company’s solid business fundamentals and market penetration.

Investors are advised to monitor market trends carefully and consider the stock’s fundamentals rather than making decisions based solely on technical fluctuations. Lock-in expiries often lead to temporary volatility, but Meesho’s growth trajectory and expanding user base continue to make it a promising player in the Indian e-commerce space.

Also Read: Venezuela to send 30–50 mn barrels of oil to US

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NITI Aayog flags rising trade deficit, urges stronger FTA use

NITI Aayog has raised concerns over India’s widening trade deficit with Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners, stressing the need to boost competitiveness in existing agreements.

In the first quarter of 2025‑26, exports to FTA countries fell 9 per cent to $38.7 billion, while imports rose 10 per cent to $65.3 billion, pushing the trade deficit up 59 per cent to $26.7 billion.

The think-tank’s Trade Watch Quarterly report notes that rising import demand, especially for inputs and energy, is outpacing export growth, highlighting the urgency for deeper integration and better utilization of FTAs to strengthen trade performance.

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Corporate

Mobileye moves into humanoid robotics with $900mn Mentee buy

Mobileye, the autonomous driving technology company backed by Intel, has announced its acquisition of AI robotics startup Mentee Robotics in a deal valued at approximately $900 million. The transaction combines cash with Mobileye stock and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.

The acquisition brings together Mentee’s cutting-edge humanoid robot technology with Mobileye’s expertise in autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence. According to company officials, the collaboration aims to position Mobileye as a global leader in “physical AI” – the application of AI in real-world, autonomous systems, including both robots and vehicles.

Mentee Robotics has developed humanoid robots capable of performing complex tasks in industrial and warehouse environments. These robots use few-shot learning, simulation-based training, and advanced sensors to operate safely and independently. Mobileye plans to leverage its existing AI infrastructure and safety protocols from autonomous vehicles to accelerate Mentee’s commercial deployment. Initial operational deployments are expected later in 2026, with large-scale production slated for 2028.

“By combining Mobileye’s autonomous driving intelligence with Mentee’s humanoid robotics, we are entering a new era of physical AI,” said Amnon Shashua, Mobileye CEO and co-founder. “This acquisition allows us to bring practical, safe, and scalable humanoid robots to real-world applications much faster.”

Mentee Robotics will operate as an independent unit within Mobileye, retaining its leadership team and continuing its research and development initiatives. The integration is expected to enhance innovation while maintaining the agility that has made Mentee a standout in the robotics space.

Industry experts see this move as a strategic step for Mobileye, not just in the autonomous vehicle market but also in the growing humanoid robotics sector. The acquisition reflects a broader trend of convergence between AI-driven software and physical robotics, opening possibilities for industrial automation, logistics, and beyond.

With this deal, Mobileye reinforces its ambition to lead the next wave of AI-powered technologies, expanding from the roads to workplaces around the world.

Also Read: Adani Enterprises’ ₹1,000 cr bond fully subscribed in 45 minutes

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Corporate

Adani Enterprises’ ₹1,000 cr bond fully subscribed in 45 minutes

Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL), the main company of the Adani Group, has raised ₹1,000 crore through a public issue of non‑convertible debentures (NCDs). The bonds were fully subscribed within 45 minutes of the issue opening on January 6, 2026.

The company initially offered a base size of ₹500 crore but had an option to increase it by another ₹500 crore if demand was high. Investors snapped up the base portion in just 10 minutes, showing strong confidence in the company.

The NCDs, which will be listed on BSE and NSE, offer an annual yield of up to 8.90%. Investors could choose from 24‑, 36‑, or 60‑month tenors, with interest paid quarterly, annually, or cumulatively. The bonds have been rated ‘AA‑’ by ICRA and CARE Ratings, indicating good credit quality.

At least 75% of the funds from this issue will be used to repay existing debt, and the remaining amount will support general corporate purposes. The issue was managed by Nuvama Wealth Management, Trust Investment Advisors, and Tipsons Consultancy Services.

This is not the first time AEL’s bonds have seen strong demand. A previous NCD issue of ₹1,000 crore in July 2025 was also fully subscribed on the first day, though it took three hours.

The rapid subscription reflects investors’ confidence in Adani Enterprises’ growth plans. The company is currently involved in major infrastructure projects, including the Navi Mumbai International Airport and other large-scale initiatives.

Also Read: Reliance shares slide over 4%

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Beyond

Trump eyes Greenland, military option possible

President Donald Trump has revived his ambition to acquire Greenland, calling the Arctic island a US national security priority. The White House confirmed that Trump and his advisers are exploring multiple options, including the possible use of the US military, to gain control of the strategic territory.

“The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the US military is always an option at the commander-in-chief’s disposal,” the statement said.

Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark with around 57,000 residents, has repeatedly said it is not for sale. European powers and Canada have rallied in support of the island, warning that any US military action would shock NATO and strain ties with long-standing allies.

Despite this opposition, Trump’s interest in Greenland has been reignited following the recent US operation in Venezuela that led to the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. Administration officials describe Greenland as strategically important due to its location and untapped mineral resources crucial for high-tech and military applications.

Several avenues are reportedly under consideration, including a direct purchase of Greenland or establishing a Compact of Free Association, which would give the US influence without full sovereignty. Diplomacy remains the preferred route if a deal can be negotiated, sources said. Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured lawmakers that recent comments did not indicate an imminent invasion.

Some members of Congress, including Republicans, have voiced concerns over the administration’s rhetoric, emphasizing the need to respect Denmark’s sovereignty and treaty obligations. “When Denmark and Greenland make it clear that Greenland is not for sale, the US must honor its treaty obligations,” said Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Republican Senator Thom Tillis.

Officials stressed that Trump’s drive to acquire Greenland will continue throughout his remaining three years in office. They argue that securing the island would strengthen US influence in the Arctic, counter growing Russian and Chinese activity, and tap valuable resources that remain largely undeveloped.

Trump’s push highlights ongoing tensions between unilateral US ambitions and the cooperative approach expected by NATO allies in managing Arctic security.

Also Read: Venezuela to send 30–50 mn barrels of oil to US

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Venezuela to send 30–50 mn barrels of oil to US

In a move that could reshape global energy flows, President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela will hand over 30 to 50 million barrels of crude oil to the US. Speaking on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the oil would be sold at market prices, and the proceeds would be under US control, a step he described as benefiting both Americans and Venezuelans.

The transfer comes after recent political turmoil in Caracas, including a US operation that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The announcement marks a rare moment of direct cooperation with Venezuela’s interim authorities, who confirmed the handover but criticized foreign involvement, insisting their sovereignty must be respected.

Trump directed Energy Secretary Chris Wright to begin the process immediately. The plan is to move oil from Venezuelan storage ships directly to US ports, ensuring a smooth flow of high-quality crude. Experts say this injection of oil into the US supply chain could slightly ease prices at a time when energy markets remain volatile. At current rates, the transferred oil could be valued at around $2.8 billion, though final figures will depend on market conditions.

Beyond the numbers, the deal carries broader geopolitical implications. Analysts note that oil previously headed to other countries, including China, may now be redirected to the US, signaling a potential shift in global energy alliances. Trump framed the move as part of a strategy to stabilize markets and assert US influence in Venezuela’s energy sector.

As the first shipments prepare to leave Venezuelan ports, both nations are watching closely, aware that this deal could set the tone for future energy, trade, and diplomatic relations in the region.

It reflects a rare moment where political maneuvering and energy policy intersect in a tangible way, promising both economic impact and a test of how international agreements are executed in a tense, rapidly changing landscape.

Also Read: Reliance shares slide over 4%

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Beyond

Gold rises ₹1,38,830, Silver up by ₹2,53,100

Gold and silver prices edged up slightly in the domestic market on Wednesday, reflecting steady demand for precious metals. The price of 24-carat gold increased by ₹10, taking the rate to ₹1,38,830 per 10 grams in major Indian cities. At the same time, 22-carat gold also rose by ₹10 and was priced at around ₹1,27,260 per 10 grams.

Silver prices also moved higher. The metal gained ₹100 per kilogram and was trading at ₹2,53,100 per kg in key markets such as Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. In Chennai, silver was priced higher at around ₹2,71,100 per kg, reflecting regional variations.

Market experts said the small rise in prices comes amid mixed global signals. While precious metals have seen strong gains in recent months due to safe-haven demand, global prices were slightly lower as investors booked profits. A firmer US dollar also put some pressure on international bullion prices.

Despite this, domestic gold and silver prices remain elevated, supported by ongoing investment interest and demand from jewellers. Gold has been trading close to record levels, while silver has shown stronger momentum compared to gold in recent weeks.

Traders said bullion prices are likely to remain volatile in the near term, tracking global market trends, currency movements and investor sentiment. Any major changes in global economic conditions could influence prices further in the coming days.

Also Read: Intel reveals AI‑ready Panther Lake chips