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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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Intel reveals AI‑ready Panther Lake chips

Intel has unveiled its next-generation PC processors at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, marking a key step in its push to regain leadership in the global chip market.

The new Intel Core Ultra chips are designed for laptops and are built to deliver better performance, improved power efficiency, and stronger artificial intelligence capabilities.

Intel said the processors will support advanced AI features directly on devices, reducing reliance on cloud computing. The chips are expected to power a wide range of new PCs launching later this year, as competition intensifies with rivals such as AMD and Nvidia.

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Copper hits $13,000 after Chile mine strike

Global copper prices jumped to a record level of around $13,000 per ton following a strike at a major copper mine in Chile, the world’s top copper producer.

The work stoppage disrupted supply at a time when global inventories are already low, intensifying concerns over availability. Strong demand from construction, renewable energy, electric vehicles and power infrastructure has further supported prices.

Market analysts say fears of prolonged supply shortages are driving the rally, with any delay in mine operations likely to keep prices elevated.

The surge highlights growing pressure on industrial metal markets worldwide.

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Bank employees’ unions nationwide strike looms on January 27

Bank unions under the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU) have announced a nationwide strike on January 27, 2026, demanding the implementation of a five-day work week for banking staff.

The demand stems from the 2024 wage revision settlement, which proposed extended holidays without reducing total working hours. UFBU warns that continued government inaction could disrupt operations in public sector banks, though digital banking services and ATMs are expected to remain functional.

The move reflects ongoing tensions between bank employees seeking better work-life balance and management adherence to existing agreements. Customers are advised to plan accordingly.

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DGCA bans power bank use on flights

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has banned using power banks to charge devices on flights to prevent fire hazards from lithium-ion batteries.

Passengers can carry power banks and spare batteries only in hand luggage, not in checked bags or overhead compartments. Airlines are required to inform travelers about these safety rules and ensure compliance.

The move follows global concerns over in-flight fires caused by improperly handled or charged power banks. Travelers should also avoid using seat charging ports for power banks to reduce the risk of onboard accidents.

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Yes Bank loan book touches ₹2.57 lakh cr in Q3 FY26

Yes Bank reported steady business growth in the third quarter of FY26, with its loan book rising 5.2 percent year-on-year to ₹2.57 lakh crore as of December 31, 2025.

The bank’s total deposits grew 5.5 percent to ₹2.92 lakh crore, supported by a modest quarter-on-quarter increase. The CASA ratio improved to 34 percent, indicating a stronger share of low-cost deposits.

Yes Bank’s credit-to-deposit ratio stood at 88 percent, while the liquidity coverage ratio remained healthy at 123.8 percent. The provisional numbers reflect stable balance-sheet growth ahead of detailed quarterly results.

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Coal India shares up 6% as e-auctions open to foreign buyers

Coal India Ltd shares jumped nearly 6 per cent, reaching a 52-week high after the company allowed direct participation by foreign buyers in its e-auctions.

From January 1, buyers from Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal can bid directly through the Single Window Mode Agnostic (SWMA) platform, removing the need for domestic intermediaries.

The board approved changes to the auction system to widen market access, improve transparency, and support coal offtake amid soft domestic demand. Investors reacted positively, sending the Maharatna PSU’s stock sharply higher, reflecting confidence in growth prospects.

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LIC’s paper loss exceeds ₹11,000 cr as ITC stock dives

The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) incurred a notional loss of over ₹11,000 crore after ITC shares fell nearly 14% in two trading sessions.

The decline followed the government’s move to raise excise duties on cigarettes, impacting tobacco companies. ITC’s share price touched a 52-week low near ₹345, slashing around ₹72,000 crore from its market value.

Other public insurers, including General Insurance Corporation and New India Assurance, also faced significant unrealised losses. The losses will materialise only if these shares are sold.

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TVS Motor sales up 50%, shares rally

TVS Motor Company’s stock surged following a strong sales performance in December 2025 and the third quarter of FY26.

The company reported a 50% year-on-year jump in total vehicle sales for December, reaching 481,389 units, driven by a 48% rise in two-wheelers. Both domestic and export markets contributed to the growth, while electric vehicle sales also showed notable gains.

In Q3FY26, TVS achieved its highest-ever quarterly sales, reinforcing investor optimism. The impressive numbers highlight strong demand across segments and markets, fueling early trading gains and positive sentiment around the stock.

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Indian Bank shares jump as Q3 FY26 business grows 13.4%

Indian Bank’s shares rose nearly 3 percent on January 2, 2026, following the release of its Q3 FY26 business update.

The bank reported a 13.4 percent increase in total business, reaching ₹14.3 lakh crore, led by a 14.5 percent rise in gross advances and a 12.5 percent growth in deposits.

Current account and savings account (CASA) balances also grew significantly, highlighting robust retail and corporate traction. The positive numbers boosted investor confidence, driving the stock higher on the BSE.

Analysts see this as a sign of continued operational strength and steady growth in India’s public sector banking segment.