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China suspends Helium exports temporarily

China has temporarily suspended helium exports, a move that could tighten global supplies of the critical industrial gas and raise concerns across sectors ranging from healthcare to semiconductor manufacturing.

The export restriction comes as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly between the United States and Iran, continue to threaten global supply chains. Industry experts fear that any disruption to helium production and transportation could worsen an already strained market.

Helium is a non-renewable gas used in a wide range of industries. It plays a vital role in MRI scanners, semiconductor manufacturing, fibre-optic production, scientific research, aerospace applications and space launches. Even small disruptions in supply can affect hospitals, technology companies and research institutions worldwide.

China has not announced how long the export suspension will remain in place. However, reports suggest the decision is intended to safeguard domestic supplies amid growing uncertainty over global helium availability. The country is a significant consumer of helium and has increasingly sought to strengthen its strategic reserves.

The latest move comes at a time when the global helium market is already under pressure due to production outages, rising demand and supply bottlenecks. Analysts say the renewed tensions involving Iran have heightened concerns because Qatar, one of the world’s largest helium exporters, relies on shipping routes through the Gulf region. Any disruption to these routes could further reduce supplies.

Market experts warn that prolonged export restrictions could push helium prices higher and create fresh challenges for industries that depend on uninterrupted supplies. Manufacturers of computer chips and medical equipment are expected to closely monitor the situation, while hospitals may also face increased procurement costs if shortages persist.

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E20 petrol may cut mileage by up to 5%

The Centre has admitted that vehicles using E20 petrol could see their fuel efficiency drop by 3% to 5% compared with regular petrol. However, it says the cleaner fuel offers long-term benefits by reducing pollution and cutting India’s dependence on imported crude oil.

According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, ethanol contains less energy than petrol, which explains the slight reduction in mileage. While motorists may need a little more fuel to cover the same distance, the government believes the impact will be limited for most users.

E20 fuel, a blend of 20% ethanol and 80% petrol, is a key part of India’s strategy to promote cleaner transport. Officials say it produces lower emissions, helping improve air quality and reduce the country’s carbon footprint.

The government also highlighted the economic benefits of ethanol blending. Higher ethanol production creates demand for crops such as sugarcane and maize, providing additional income opportunities for farmers while reducing India’s fuel import bill.

Motorists will continue to have the option of using lower ethanol blends depending on their vehicle’s compatibility. The Centre has advised owners of older vehicles to follow manufacturers’ recommendations before switching to E20 fuel.

Despite concerns over mileage, the government says the environmental and economic gains outweigh the small loss in fuel efficiency. It plans to continue expanding ethanol blending as part of India’s clean energy transition while ensuring consumers have suitable fuel choices.

Also Read: Gold at ₹1,44,330, silver at ₹2,40,100 today

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World Bank backs PM Surya Ghar with $890 mn

The World Bank Group has approved $890 million (around ₹7,400 crore) to support India’s PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, giving a major boost to the country’s efforts to expand rooftop solar power and accelerate the transition to clean energy.

The funding package is expected to help millions of households install rooftop solar systems while strengthening the infrastructure needed to support distributed renewable energy across the country. It will also improve access to affordable electricity, reduce dependence on conventional power sources and contribute to India’s climate goals.

Launched by the Centre earlier this year, the PM Surya Ghar scheme aims to provide rooftop solar installations to one crore households, enabling families to generate their own electricity and lower their monthly power bills. Eligible households receive financial assistance to install solar panels, with many expected to benefit from free or significantly reduced electricity consumption.

According to the World Bank, the programme has the potential to transform India’s residential energy sector by encouraging clean power generation at the household level. The initiative is also expected to create large-scale employment opportunities in manufacturing, installation, maintenance and other solar-related services.

Apart from supporting rooftop installations, the funding will help strengthen power distribution systems, improve grid integration and enhance the capacity of financial institutions involved in financing rooftop solar projects. These measures are expected to make the programme more efficient and ensure faster adoption across urban and rural areas.

Officials said the investment reflects growing international confidence in India’s renewable energy ambitions. The country has set ambitious targets to expand non-fossil fuel energy capacity and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, with rooftop solar expected to play a key role in meeting future electricity demand sustainably.

The World Bank also highlighted the programme’s broader social benefits, noting that wider adoption of rooftop solar can reduce household energy costs, improve energy security and lower carbon emissions. Increased participation by women-led households, small businesses and local entrepreneurs is also expected to generate inclusive economic growth.

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Gold at ₹1,44,330, silver at ₹2,40,100 today

Gold prices remained under pressure on Saturday, giving buyers a slight respite after recent highs. According to the latest bullion rates, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹1,44,330 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold costs ₹1,32,300 per 10 grams. Silver is trading at ₹2,40,100 per kilogram, with prices also witnessing a mild correction.

The latest decline follows a week of sharp movements in precious metal prices. Market experts say changing global economic conditions, a stronger US dollar and expectations over future interest rate decisions by the US Federal Reserve have influenced investor sentiment, leading to fluctuations in gold and silver prices.

Gold continues to remain a preferred investment during periods of uncertainty, but its prices have become more volatile in recent weeks. International developments, including geopolitical tensions and movements in global financial markets, are also impacting domestic bullion prices.

Rates vary slightly across cities because of local taxes and transportation costs. In addition to the market price, buyers purchasing jewellery will have to pay GST and making charges, which differ from one jeweller to another.

Silver has also mirrored global trends. Apart from investment demand, the metal is widely used in industries such as electronics, solar energy and electric vehicles. Changes in industrial demand often influence silver prices, making them more volatile than gold.

Jewellers say the latest correction has encouraged enquiries from customers planning purchases for weddings and upcoming festive occasions. However, many buyers are still waiting to see if prices fall further before making large purchases.

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Centre clears Dixon-Vivo smartphone venture

The Centre has approved the proposed joint venture between Dixon Technologies and Vivo Mobile India, paving the way for the two companies to expand smartphone manufacturing in the country. The clearance is seen as a major boost for India’s electronics manufacturing sector and the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The approval has been granted under Press Note 3, which governs foreign investments from countries sharing a land border with India. Under the agreement, Dixon Technologies will hold a 51% stake in the new venture, while Vivo India will own the remaining 49%, ensuring majority Indian ownership in line with government regulations.

Following the approval, the two companies have signed definitive joint venture and shareholders’ agreements to formally establish the new entity. The venture will manufacture smartphones and electronic devices in India, primarily for Vivo, while also producing devices for other brands as an original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

The partnership is expected to significantly increase local smartphone production and strengthen India’s position as a global electronics manufacturing hub. Industry experts believe the venture will improve supply chain efficiency, generate employment and reduce dependence on imports.

The approval comes after months of regulatory scrutiny and is being viewed as an important milestone for both companies. For Vivo, it provides a stable manufacturing base in one of its largest markets, while Dixon stands to further strengthen its leadership in the electronics manufacturing services (EMS) segment.

Investors reacted positively to the development, with Dixon Technologies’ shares gaining in early trade as the government nod removed a key uncertainty surrounding the deal. Analysts expect the partnership to boost the company’s manufacturing volumes and support long-term revenue growth.

The joint venture also reflects India’s evolving strategy of encouraging global companies to manufacture locally through partnerships with Indian firms. As smartphone demand continues to grow, the new venture is expected to play a significant role in expanding domestic production and enhancing India’s export potential.

Also Read: Fed chief Warsh names members for reform panels

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Fed chief Warsh names members for reform panels

Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh has named members of five new task forces that will review the US central bank’s policies and operations, bringing together experts from business, technology, finance and academia to help shape its future direction.

The advisory panels have been formed to examine important areas including monetary policy communication, the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet, economic data, productivity and employment, and the central bank’s inflation framework. Their recommendations are expected to help the Fed adapt to changing economic conditions and technological advancements.

The task forces include several well-known names from across industries. Venture capitalist Marc Andreessen, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, former Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan, economist Greg Mankiw, Nobel laureate Thomas Sargent, economist Raj Chetty, former Bank of England Governor Mervyn King, and former Brazilian central bank chief Arminio Fraga are among those selected.

According to the Federal Reserve, the panels will provide independent advice and fresh perspectives on issues that are becoming increasingly important for policymakers. One group will focus on improving how the central bank communicates its decisions, while others will study the impact of artificial intelligence, labour productivity, inflation trends and the use of economic data in policymaking.

Warsh said the initiative reflects the need for the Federal Reserve to evolve alongside a rapidly changing global economy. He noted that insights from leaders across different sectors would help strengthen the institution’s ability to respond to future economic challenges.

The task forces will act in an advisory role, with any policy changes continuing to require approval through the Federal Reserve’s established decision-making process.

Also Read: Delhi HC upholds Vedanta’s ₹950 cr arbitration award

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Delhi HC upholds Vedanta’s ₹950 cr arbitration award

The Delhi High Court has upheld a foreign arbitration award in favour of Vedanta Ltd, marking a significant legal victory for the company in its long-running dispute over the Ravva oil and gas fields. The decision allows the enforcement of an arbitral award worth nearly ₹950 crore, strengthening Vedanta’s position in the case.

The dispute relates to the Ravva offshore oil and gas project, where disagreements arose over contractual obligations and financial claims. After the matter was decided through international arbitration, Vedanta approached the Delhi High Court to enforce the foreign award in India.

In its ruling, the court held that the award met the legal requirements for enforcement under Indian law and rejected objections raised against its execution. The judgment reinforces India’s commitment to recognising and enforcing foreign arbitral awards, provided they comply with the provisions of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.

The verdict was welcomed by investors, with shares of Vedanta gaining around 5 per cent during trading after news of the ruling. Market participants viewed the decision as a positive development for the company, as it could improve cash flows and reduce uncertainty surrounding the prolonged legal dispute.

Legal experts said the judgment highlights India’s evolving arbitration framework and sends a positive signal to global investors about the country’s willingness to honour international arbitration decisions. They noted that such rulings strengthen confidence in India’s legal environment for resolving cross-border commercial disputes.

Vedanta, one of India’s leading natural resources companies, has interests across oil and gas, metals, mining and energy. The Ravva oil field remains an important asset within its energy portfolio.

While the court’s decision represents a major milestone, any further legal remedies available to the opposing parties will depend on applicable judicial procedures. For now, the ruling brings the long-running dispute a step closer to closure.

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Rupee gains 15 paise despite RBI’s dollar challenge

Indian rupee opened stronger on Friday, rising 15 paise to 95.32 against the US dollar in early trade, supported by a weaker greenback in global markets and positive sentiment in domestic equities.

Forex traders said the local currency benefited from easing demand for the US dollar and improved investor confidence. However, gains remained limited as concerns over global trade tensions, crude oil prices and persistent foreign fund outflows continued to weigh on market sentiment.

The rupee’s movement comes at a time when the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is facing growing challenges in managing the country’s foreign exchange reserves after stepping up interventions to stabilise the currency. According to market estimates, the central bank may need to replenish nearly $100 billion in reserves following extensive dollar sales aimed at defending the rupee against sharp volatility.

The RBI has actively intervened in the foreign exchange market over the past several months to smooth excessive currency fluctuations. While these interventions have helped contain volatility, they have also reduced the stock of foreign exchange reserves, prompting expectations that the central bank could gradually rebuild its dollar holdings when market conditions improve.

Analysts believe the RBI is likely to remain focused on maintaining orderly market conditions rather than targeting a specific exchange rate. They expect the central bank to continue balancing currency stability with adequate liquidity in the financial system.

Meanwhile, investors are closely tracking global developments, including US economic data, expectations around Federal Reserve interest rate decisions and geopolitical tensions, all of which influence the direction of the dollar and emerging market currencies.

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RBI starts three surveys ahead of policy

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched three important surveys to gather feedback from households, businesses and professional forecasters, as it prepares for its upcoming monetary policy decisions.

The surveys are designed to help the central bank understand inflation expectations, business conditions and the broader economic outlook. The findings will provide valuable inputs to the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) while deciding the future course of interest rates.

One of the surveys focuses on Inflation Expectations of Households, covering nearly 6,000 urban households across 19 major cities. Participants are being asked about their expectations for price changes over the next three months and one year. The survey captures perceptions on the prices of food, housing, fuel, transport and other essential items that directly affect household budgets.

The RBI has also begun its Industrial Outlook Survey, which collects responses from manufacturing companies on production, order books, capacity utilisation, employment and overall business confidence. The survey helps the central bank assess how industries expect business conditions to evolve in the coming months.

The third exercise is the Survey of Professional Forecasters, involving economists, research institutions and market experts. They provide projections on key economic indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, interest rates, exchange rates and other macroeconomic variables.

The RBI clarified that the survey results reflect the views of respondents and should not be treated as the central bank’s official assessment or policy stance.

The latest round of surveys comes at a time when inflation has moderated and the RBI continues to closely monitor domestic demand, global uncertainties and changing financial conditions. Policymakers are expected to use the findings alongside economic data while assessing risks to growth and inflation.

By collecting regular feedback from consumers, businesses and experts, the RBI aims to gain a clearer picture of the economy beyond official statistics.

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Gold slips to ₹145,460, Silver tops ₹227,160

Gold and silver prices witnessed mixed movement on Friday, July 10, with domestic futures reflecting cautious sentiment in the bullion market. MCX gold was trading 0.28% lower at ₹145,460 per 10 grams, while MCX silver futures edged 0.10% higher to ₹227,160 per kg.

In the retail market, however, gold prices remained largely stable across major cities. In Delhi, 24-carat gold was priced at around ₹145,800 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold stood at ₹133,650. Similar price trends were seen in Mumbai and Kolkata, with only minor variations due to local taxes and transportation costs. Retail silver (999 purity) continued to trade above ₹2.26 lakh per kg.

The mixed trend comes as investors weigh global economic developments, including expectations around interest rates, inflation and geopolitical uncertainties. These factors continue to influence the movement of precious metals, with gold often attracting investors during periods of uncertainty, while silver benefits from both safe-haven demand and its industrial applications.

Jewellers said stable retail prices are encouraging buyers who have been waiting for a pause in recent volatility. Demand for jewellery and investment purchases is expected to remain steady, supported by the upcoming festive and wedding season. However, many consumers are still comparing prices before making large purchases.

Market analysts believe bullion prices could remain volatile in the near term as investors closely monitor global cues and movements in the US dollar. Any fresh signals from major central banks or changes in inflation expectations may influence the direction of gold and silver prices.

For buyers, experts recommend checking BIS hallmark certification, comparing prices across retailers and factoring in making charges before purchasing jewellery.

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