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Japan announces $10 bn Asia oil aid

Japan has announced a $10 billion financial support package to help Asian countries deal with rising energy costs and growing concerns over oil supply disruptions.

The aid is expected to assist countries across Asia, especially in Southeast Asia, in securing stable access to crude oil, fuel supplies, and other energy needs. The move comes as many economies in the region face higher import costs due to elevated global crude prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains.

Japanese officials said the package is designed to strengthen regional energy security and reduce the economic impact of volatile oil markets. Many Asian nations depend heavily on imported fuel, making them vulnerable to sudden price spikes and disruptions in shipping routes.

Global oil markets have remained uncertain in recent months, with prices staying firm amid tensions in the Middle East and concerns over major trade routes. Rising fuel prices have increased pressure on inflation, transport expenses, and government spending across importing countries.

Japan, itself a major energy importer, has long played an important role in promoting economic stability in Asia through financing and development partnerships. Analysts believe the new package could help neighbouring nations build emergency reserves, secure long-term supply deals, and manage short-term price shocks.

Experts said Southeast Asian countries are likely to benefit the most, as many remain highly exposed to swings in global oil prices while domestic demand for fuel continues to grow. The financial support may also help ease pressure on local currencies and national budgets.

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Rupee rises to 92.86 against US dollar

The Indian rupee strengthened in early trade on Friday, gaining around 25–28 paise to touch 92.86 against the US dollar, as supportive measures from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) helped ease demand pressure in the foreign exchange market.

The gain came after the RBI reportedly introduced a special dollar access window for state-run oil marketing companies. Instead of directly buying dollars from the spot market, firms like Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum can now source foreign currency through a structured credit arrangement. This is aimed at reducing sudden spikes in dollar demand.

Traders said this step helped calm sentiment in the currency market by lowering immediate pressure from one of the biggest sources of dollar buying in India. As a result, the rupee opened stronger and held onto gains in early deals.

Sentiment was also mildly supported by stable domestic equity markets and slightly improved global risk appetite. However, gains were limited as the US dollar remained firm globally, keeping emerging market currencies under some pressure.

Market participants noted that the RBI’s move is not about fixing a level for the rupee, but about reducing volatility and ensuring smoother forex market functioning. By spreading out dollar demand, the central bank aims to prevent sharp swings in the currency.

Also Read: Gold rises to ₹1,55,580, Silver slips to ₹2,69,900

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Gold rises to ₹1,55,580, Silver slips to ₹2,69,900

Gold and silver prices in India witnessed mixed movement on Friday, reflecting volatile trends in global commodity markets and shifting investor sentiment driven by geopolitical developments and currency movements.

According to market updates, gold prices continued their upward bias, supported by renewed safe-haven demand. Investors turned towards the yellow metal amid ongoing uncertainty linked to global geopolitical tensions, particularly expectations around easing US–Iran friction. This has kept inflation and interest-rate expectations in focus, indirectly supporting gold.

In domestic markets, gold prices on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) traded higher, with the metal holding firm near recent elevated levels. Analysts said the firmness in gold is also being supported by a softer US dollar and stable international cues, which have made bullion more attractive for global investors.

In contrast, silver prices witnessed a decline, with the white metal slipping from recent highs due to profit booking. Traders also pointed to uneven industrial demand outlook as a key factor weighing on silver, which has a stronger link to manufacturing and electronics demand compared to gold.

Market experts noted that silver tends to be more volatile than gold, and recent price swings reflect this sensitivity. While long-term fundamentals remain supportive due to green energy and industrial usage, short-term corrections are being seen after sharp recent gains.

In India, retail bullion rates also showed city-wise variation, with 24K and 22K gold prices differing across major centres like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and others. Silver rates similarly moved in line with MCX trends, remaining under pressure in some markets.

Analysts expect continued volatility in precious metals in the near term as traders closely monitor global inflation data, central bank policy signals, and geopolitical developments. However, gold is expected to remain supported on dips, while silver may continue to see sharper swings due to its dual nature as both a precious and industrial metal.

Also Read: Sensex rises over 250 points, Nifty climbs above 24,250

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IMF cuts global growth, India holds at 6.5%

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered its global growth forecast for 2026, while keeping India’s outlook steady at 6.5%, highlighting the country’s resilience in a slowing world economy.

In its latest update, the IMF cut global growth projections to around 3.1%, citing rising geopolitical tensions, especially in West Asia, and higher oil prices impacting economies worldwide. The report also warned that growth could weaken further if conflicts intensify or energy prices remain elevated.

Despite these challenges, India continues to stand out. The IMF expects the country to maintain strong growth, driven by robust domestic demand, steady consumption, and ongoing investment activity. This puts India on track to grow at nearly double the global average, making it one of the fastest-growing major economies.

The report noted that India’s economic stability and internal strength are helping cushion the impact of global uncertainties. Improvements in trade conditions and consistent policy support have also contributed to sustaining growth momentum.

At the same time, the IMF flagged risks for the global economy. Rising crude oil prices, supply disruptions, and uncertainty around key trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz could keep markets volatile. Inflation pressures are also expected to persist in several countries due to higher energy costs.

While advanced economies may see slower growth, emerging markets like India are expected to perform relatively better, supported by domestic factors.

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Gold near ₹1.55 lakh, Silver above ₹2.70 lakh

Gold and silver prices in India recorded a sharp rise on 16 April 2026, tracking firm international trends and renewed safe-haven demand from investors.

In domestic trade, gold prices moved higher, with 24-carat gold hovering near ₹1.55 lakh per 10 grams, reflecting strong gains in both spot and futures markets. Silver also surged sharply, with rates crossing the ₹2.70 lakh per kilogram mark in some MCX-linked trading ranges, marking one of the stronger single-session up-moves in recent weeks.

The rally in bullion was supported by global factors, including a weaker US dollar and easing US Treasury yields, which improved demand for non-yielding assets like gold. Investors also increased exposure to precious metals amid continuing geopolitical uncertainty and expectations of shifting global interest rate trajectories.

Silver outperformed in percentage terms during parts of the session, supported by both industrial demand expectations and speculative buying in futures contracts. Analysts noted that silver tends to show sharper volatility compared to gold, leading to stronger upside moves during bullish phases.

On the domestic front, demand remained firm ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, a key seasonal buying period in India. Jewellers reported steady retail interest, with customers showing higher engagement in advance bookings and price-lock schemes despite elevated price levels.

On MCX, bullion futures remained firmly in positive territory throughout the session, with traders actively participating in both gold and silver contracts.

Also Read: Sensex jumps over 250 points, Nifty above 24,300

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SEBI eases IPO rules, plans checks on trading errors

Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken steps to make life easier for companies planning to go public, while also trying to make stock market trading safer.

In a recent move, SEBI has allowed companies to reduce the size of their IPOs by up to 50% without going through a long and complex approval process. Earlier, companies could only make smaller changes without restarting paperwork.

This change comes at a time when global uncertainties, including tensions involving Iran, have made markets unpredictable. Because of this, many companies have been cautious about raising funds, as investor sentiment has weakened.

With the new rule, companies can now adjust their IPO plans more easily if market conditions are not favourable. However, they still need SEBI’s approval, and the purpose of the IPO must remain the same. The relaxation is temporary and applies to companies planning to launch IPOs in the coming months.

At the same time, SEBI is also focusing on making trading more secure. It is looking to reduce “fat finger” errors, mistakes made when traders accidentally enter the wrong price or quantity.

To address this, SEBI may ask stock exchanges to introduce tighter and more flexible price limits in the options trading segment. These limits would help prevent sudden spikes or crashes caused by such errors.

Also Read: Tata invests ₹1,500 cr to expand iPhone production

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₹10,000 cr fund 2.0 to boost India startups

The government has rolled out a new ₹10,000 crore fund to support startups, giving a fresh push to India’s growing innovation ecosystem.

The initiative, called Startup India Fund of Funds 2.0, is designed to help startups, especially those in early stages, get better access to funding. Many young companies struggle to raise money in their initial years, and this fund aims to ease that challenge.

Instead of investing directly in startups, the government will route the money through investment funds. These funds will then support promising startups across sectors. This approach is expected to attract more private investors and create a stronger funding network.

A key focus of the new fund will be on deep-tech sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. These areas often require larger investments and longer time to grow, making funding harder to secure.

The scheme also aims to support startups beyond major cities, helping businesses in smaller towns and emerging hubs. By doing so, the government hopes to spread innovation more evenly across the country.

This is the second phase of the Startup India fund. The first phase, launched in 2016, helped several startups grow by improving access to capital and encouraging investor participation. The new phase builds on that effort with a sharper focus on future-ready technologies.

India’s startup ecosystem has grown rapidly in recent years, with thousands of new companies entering the market. However, many still face funding gaps, especially in high-risk or capital-intensive sectors.

Officials believe this fund will help bridge that gap and encourage more investment into innovative ideas. It is also expected to create jobs and support long-term economic growth.

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Gold at ₹1,53,940 per 10 gm, Silver at ₹2,54,900

Gold and silver prices showed mixed movement in domestic markets on April 15, 2026, as global cues and shifting investor sentiment kept bullion trade volatile.

Gold prices rose marginally by ₹10 to trade around ₹1,53,940 per 10 grams in the physical market, reflecting mild buying interest. On the other hand, silver prices declined by ₹100, slipping to around ₹2,54,900 per kilogram, indicating some weakness after recent gains.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), both metals witnessed fluctuating trends throughout the session. Gold traded in a narrow range as investors remained cautious, while silver showed slight downward pressure after opening higher earlier in the day.

The mixed trend in bullion prices was largely influenced by global developments. Hopes of easing geopolitical tensions, particularly linked to possible US–Iran talks, reduced the appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset. At the same time, softer crude oil prices helped ease inflatio concerns, limiting strong upward momentum in precious metals.

Internationally, gold prices remained under pressure after touching recent highs, as improving global risk appetite prompted investors to shift towards equities. A stronger US dollar also weighed on gold prices, making it more expensive for holders of other currencies.

Silver, which has both industrial and investment demand, showed relative volatility. While global industrial demand continues to provide support, profit booking at higher levels led to a slight decline in domestic prices.

In major retail markets across India, gold rates remained largely stable with minor variations depending on local demand and taxes. Prices of 22-carat and 24-carat gold continued to hover near recent levels, reflecting steady consumer demand.

Market experts noted that bullion prices are currently moving within a limited range, tracking global economic signals, currency movements, and geopolitical developments. Investors are also closely watching interest rate cues from major central banks, which could influence future price direction.

Also Read: Sensex jumps over 1,300 points, Nifty surges past 24,200 on global cues

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Travel platform data breach exposes user details

Booking.com has reported a data breach that may have exposed personal information of some of its customers, raising fresh concerns about online safety.

The company said it detected unauthorised access to part of its system, where booking-related data was stored. While the issue has now been controlled, some customer details may have been viewed by unknown individuals.

The information potentially exposed includes names, email addresses, phone numbers, and booking details. In some cases, messages exchanged between customers and hotels may also have been accessed. However, the company has clarified that financial information, such as credit card details, was not affected.

After identifying the problem, Booking.com took steps to secure its systems and began informing affected users. It also reset certain security details, such as reservation PINs, to prevent further misuse.

Users have been advised to stay alert, especially for suspicious emails or messages related to their bookings. Experts warn that attackers could use the leaked information to send phishing messages, pretending to be hotels or the platform itself, in an attempt to trick users.

The company has not shared how many customers were impacted, and investigations are still ongoing.

This incident highlights the growing risk of cyberattacks on online platforms that handle large amounts of personal data. For users, it serves as a reminder to be cautious while sharing information online and to verify any unexpected communication.

Also Read: Adani cargo shift plan draws US scrutiny

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Fuel, fertiliser prices to stay high

Global prices of fuel and fertilisers are likely to stay high for a longer period, according to a joint warning by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and International Energy Agency (IEA).

The agencies said recent tensions in the Middle East have disrupted energy supplies, pushing up the cost of oil, gas, and fertilisers. These increases are already affecting economies around the world, especially countries that rely heavily on imports.

They cautioned that even if key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz return to normal, prices may not fall quickly. Supply chains take time to stabilise, and any damage to infrastructure or delays in production could keep costs elevated.

The impact is likely to be felt more in developing and low-income countries, where higher fuel prices can strain budgets and increase the cost of living. Rising fertiliser prices are also a concern, as they can make farming more expensive and affect food production.

This could lead to higher food prices, adding to the financial pressure on households. Businesses that depend on fuel and fertilisers may also face rising costs, which could slow down economic growth.

The agencies said they are working with governments to manage the situation, offering support and guidance where needed. However, they also stressed that uncertainty remains high, and global markets are still adjusting to the disruptions.

Also Read: Adani cargo shift plan draws US scrutiny