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HDFC Bank shares fall further as HSBC cuts target

Shares of HDFC Bank fell for a fourth consecutive session, losing about 10 % over four days, as investor caution grew. The slide follows the recent resignation of the bank’s part‑time chairman and ongoing market pressures linked to global uncertainties.

Adding to the concerns, HSBC lowered its 12‑month price target for the bank from ₹1,070 to ₹990, citing valuation compression risks, though it maintained a ‘Buy’ rating.

Experts say the stock’s performance in upcoming quarters will be crucial for restoring investor confidence and stabilizing the market sentiment around India’s largest private lender.

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HDFC Bank sacks 3 executives over compliance lapses

HDFC Bank has fired three senior executives after an internal probe found lapses in client onboarding and alleged mis-selling of Credit Suisse AT1 bonds at its DIFC branch in Dubai. Regulators had earlier flagged compliance issues and restricted the branch from adding new clients.

The bank said it conducted a detailed review and took corrective steps, including tightening controls and making leadership changes. The AT1 bonds, considered high-risk, had lost value during the Credit Suisse crisis.

HDFC Bank said it remains committed to strong governance and will work with regulators while focusing on rebuilding customer trust.

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Iran strikes cut Qatar LNG by 17%

Iranian attacks damaged two LNG units and a gas‑to‑liquids plant in Qatar, wiping out about 17 % of its LNG export capacity.

QatarEnergy CEO Saad al‑Kaabi said repairs could take three to five years, affecting roughly 12.8 million tonnes of annual output and $20 billion in revenue. The company may declare force majeure on long-term LNG contracts with buyers in Italy, Belgium, South Korea, and China.

The disruption adds pressure to global gas markets amid ongoing Middle East tensions.

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Wipro partners Harness for AI-led software delivery

Wipro has partnered with Harness to boost AI-driven software delivery for enterprises worldwide. The collaboration will combine Wipro’s AI capabilities with Harness’ delivery platform to streamline how software is built, tested, and deployed.

The partnership aims to reduce manual processes, improve efficiency, and speed up development cycles while maintaining quality and security. It will help companies adopt AI-native development methods and respond faster to changing business needs.

The move highlights the rising demand for automation and AI in modern software development across industries.

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Teens sue Elon Musk’s xAI over AI deepfakes

Three Tennessee teens have filed a federal lawsuit against Elon Musk’s xAI, alleging its AI chatbot Grok was used to turn their real photos into sexualized deepfakes. Two plaintiffs are minors.

The images were shared on platforms like Discord and Telegram. The teens claim xAI failed to prevent misuse and seek damages plus restrictions on Grok’s image functions.

The case highlights growing concerns over AI-generated non-consensual content.

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Apple acquires Polish visual effects firm MotionVFX

Apple has bought Polish video‑editing software company MotionVFX, known for its plug‑ins, templates, and visual effects for Final Cut Pro. Founded in 2009 and based in Bielsko‑Biała, MotionVFX employs around 70 people. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The acquisition will integrate MotionVFX’s products and expertise into Apple’s creative software ecosystem, enhancing professional video editing tools and supporting its Creator Studio offerings.

The move also positions Apple to better compete with rivals like Adobe. MotionVFX expressed excitement about joining Apple and continuing to develop advanced visual‑effects solutions for video creators.

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Ecofy secures ₹380 crore funding to expand green lending

Ecofy, a climate-focused non-banking finance company (NBFC), has raised ₹380.5 crore in fresh equity funding to strengthen its retail green finance business in India.

The investment round included global development finance institutions such as British International Investment and Finnfund’s Digital Access Impact Fund, along with continued backing from Eversource Capital. The company plans to use the funds to expand loans for rooftop solar systems, electric vehicles and sustainable small-business solutions.

said the capital infusion will improve its capital adequacy ratio to about 50 per cent, supporting faster growth. The firm currently serves more than 1.2 lakh customers across various green asset segments nationwide.

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Airlines add fuel surcharge as oil prices rise

Indian airlines, including Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air, have introduced a fuel surcharge on flight tickets following a rise in aviation fuel prices linked to tensions in West Asia involving Iran.

The surcharge will apply to both domestic and international flights and could range from around ₹199 to ₹1,300 depending on distance and route. Airlines said the move is aimed at offsetting higher aviation turbine fuel costs, which make up a large share of operating expenses.

Industry experts say fares may ease if global oil prices stabilise in the coming weeks.

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IDBI Bank sale hits roadblock

The government’s plan to privatise IDBI Bank has slowed after bids for its majority stake reportedly fell short of expectations. The Centre and Life Insurance Corporation of India aimed to sell about 60.7% stake in the lender as part of the country’s disinvestment programme.

However, the financial offers received were below the reserve price, leading authorities to pause the sale process. Reports said potential bidders included Fairfax Financial Holdings and Emirates NBD. Following the development, shares of IDBI Bank declined amid investor concerns.

Officials may revisit the privatisation plan later depending on market conditions and renewed investor interest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Oil chiefs warn Trump on Iran war risks

Top US oil executives have warned Donald Trump that the ongoing tensions involving Iran could disrupt global energy markets and drive oil prices higher.

Industry leaders told US officials that the conflict may threaten tanker movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global crude shipments. Any disruption in the waterway could tighten supplies and trigger prolonged volatility in energy markets. Crude prices have already surged amid fears of escalation.

Analysts say further instability in the Gulf region could worsen the supply outlook and push fuel costs higher worldwide, raising concerns over inflation and economic pressure for many oil-importing countries.