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Centre summons Meta over Instagram Ads

The Centre has summoned Meta after reports alleged that advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material appeared on Instagram, raising serious concerns over the platform’s content moderation and advertising systems.

The action follows directions from Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who sought an immediate explanation from the company after reports highlighted the presence of disturbing advertisements. Officials have asked Meta to clarify how such content was allowed to appear on one of the country’s most widely used social media platforms and what steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents.

The government is expected to seek details on Instagram’s ad review process, safeguards for minors and the mechanisms used to detect and block illegal or harmful content before it reaches users. Authorities are also likely to examine whether existing compliance measures under India’s digital regulations were followed.

The incident has once again put the spotlight on the responsibility of major technology companies to monitor content and ensure that their platforms are not misused for criminal activities. Child safety advocates have long argued that social media firms must strengthen automated detection systems while improving human oversight to quickly identify and remove exploitative material.

Meta has previously stated that it maintains strict policies against child sexual exploitation and works with law enforcement agencies and child protection organisations to detect, report and remove such content. The company uses artificial intelligence, automated tools and human reviewers to identify policy violations and take action against offending accounts.

The latest controversy has renewed calls for stronger moderation and greater accountability from digital platforms, particularly as online advertising systems become increasingly automated. Experts believe companies must continuously improve their safeguards to prevent harmful material from slipping through moderation processes.

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UAE oil exports rebound despite Gulf tensions

Oil exports from the Gulf staged a strong comeback in June, offering relief to global energy markets after weeks of concern over possible supply disruptions caused by tensions in the Middle East.

The biggest boost came from the United Arab Emirates, whose crude exports climbed back to pre-conflict levels. The sharp recovery helped lift overall Gulf oil shipments and reassured buyers that supplies from one of the world’s most important energy-producing regions remain steady despite the uncertain security situation.

Much of the increase was driven by the UAE’s ability to route crude through the Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline to the Fujairah terminal on the Gulf of Oman. Unlike traditional shipping routes, this pipeline allows oil to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, reducing the risk of delays in one of the world’s busiest and most strategically sensitive waterways.

The return to normal export levels comes after fears that regional tensions could disrupt tanker movements and tighten global oil supplies. Instead, producers found ways to keep crude flowing, helping prevent the kind of supply shock many traders had feared.

The rise in exports has brought some comfort to countries that depend heavily on Gulf oil imports. It has also eased pressure on international oil markets, where prices often react sharply to geopolitical developments in the region.

However, analysts caution that the situation remains fragile. Any fresh escalation in the Middle East could once again affect shipping routes, increase transportation costs and create uncertainty over future supplies. The Strait of Hormuz continues to handle a large share of the world’s seaborne crude exports, making it a critical gateway for global energy trade.

For now, the latest figures highlight the resilience of Gulf producers and the growing importance of alternative export routes. The UAE’s ability to maintain record shipments despite regional uncertainty has strengthened confidence in its energy infrastructure and its role as a dependable supplier.

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Gold at ₹1.46 lakh, Silver at ₹2.34 lakh

The sharp decline in gold and silver prices over the past month has caught the attention of investors looking for attractive entry points. While the correction has made precious metals more affordable, market watchers say the focus should remain on long-term investing rather than chasing short-term gains.

Gold is currently trading at ₹1,45,789 per 10 grams, while silver stands at ₹2,33,701 per kg on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX). Over the past month, gold prices have fallen 5.65%, slipping from ₹1,54,529 per 10 grams, while silver has dropped 10.78% from ₹2,61,939 per kg.

The decline comes after a strong rally earlier this year. Profit booking by investors, easing global tensions and changing expectations over interest rate cuts in the United States have all contributed to the recent correction in bullion prices.

Despite the fall, the broader outlook for gold remains encouraging. Strong demand from central banks, concerns over the global economy and expectations of easier monetary policy are expected to continue supporting prices over the long term.

Financial advisers believe the current dip should be seen as an opportunity to accumulate gradually instead of making large one-time investments. Buying in smaller quantities over a period of time can help investors manage market volatility while averaging their purchase cost.

Silver is expected to remain more volatile than gold because of its dual role as both an investment asset and an industrial metal. While it offers the potential for higher returns, it is also more vulnerable to sharp price movements. Investors are therefore advised to build exposure in phases rather than investing aggressively.

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OpenAI weighs 5% US government stake

OpenAI is reportedly exploring the possibility of offering the US government a 5% equity stake in the company, a move that could mark an unprecedented partnership between a leading artificial intelligence firm and the federal government.

According to reports, the proposal is still in its early stages and remains under discussion. OpenAI Chief Executive Sam Altman is said to have raised the idea during conversations with senior officials in the Trump administration as part of broader discussions on the future of artificial intelligence in the United States.

The proposal is aimed at ensuring that the economic benefits of AI are shared more widely as the technology transforms industries and creates enormous financial value. By giving the government an ownership stake, supporters believe ordinary Americans could indirectly benefit from the rapid growth of the country’s AI sector.

Reports suggest the idea could eventually extend beyond OpenAI, with other major US artificial intelligence companies also encouraged to contribute equity to a government-backed investment fund. Such a mechanism would allow the public to participate in the industry’s long-term success while strengthening America’s leadership in AI.

The discussions come as governments around the world are debating how best to regulate artificial intelligence while encouraging innovation. Policymakers are increasingly focused on issues such as national security, data privacy, job displacement and ensuring that AI-driven economic gains are distributed more broadly.

At OpenAI’s reported valuation of around $852 billion, a 5% stake would be worth more than $42 billion, making it one of the most valuable government holdings in a private technology company if the proposal were to materialise.

However, the discussions remain preliminary, and there is no indication that a formal agreement has been reached. Neither OpenAI nor the US government has officially confirmed the reports, and it remains unclear whether other AI companies would support a similar arrangement.

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E20 cuts mileage slightly, says Hardeep Singh Puri

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has dismissed concerns over E20 petrol, saying the ethanol-blended fuel causes only a marginal reduction in vehicle mileage and remains a key part of India’s plan to improve energy security and reduce dependence on imported crude oil.

Responding to questions about the impact of E20 fuel on vehicles, Puri said the blend has undergone extensive testing and is safe for compatible engines. He added that ethanol-blended fuels are widely used across the world and even power high-performance racing vehicles, countering claims that E20 significantly affects engine performance or efficiency.

The minister acknowledged that motorists may notice a slight drop in mileage with E20 fuel, but stressed that the difference is minimal compared to the environmental and economic benefits of increasing ethanol use. India has been steadily raising ethanol blending levels to reduce crude oil imports, support sugarcane farmers and lower carbon emissions.

Puri also addressed growing public concern over petrol and diesel prices, which have remained unchanged despite a decline in international crude oil prices in recent weeks.

He explained that oil marketing companies are still refining crude purchased during the recent West Asia conflict, when global oil prices, freight charges and insurance costs were considerably higher. As a result, the benefit of lower international crude prices has not yet reached consumers at fuel stations.

According to the minister, state-run oil companies incurred significant losses during the April-June period as they continued supplying petrol, diesel and LPG while absorbing higher input costs. He indicated that any reduction in pump prices would depend on global crude remaining stable at lower levels for a sustained period.

India’s ethanol blending programme has accelerated in recent years, with the government promoting cleaner fuels and encouraging the adoption of flex-fuel vehicles. Officials believe the initiative will not only reduce the country’s import bill but also strengthen energy security in the long run.

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Gold hits at ₹1.47 lakh, silver tops ₹2.36 lakh

Gold and silver prices edged higher across India on Friday, supported by firm global trends and renewed safe-haven demand after weaker-than-expected US economic data strengthened expectations of a pause in interest rate hikes.

According to the latest retail rates, 24-carat gold was priced at around ₹1.47 lakh per 10 grams in most major cities, while 22-carat gold traded above ₹1.35 lakh. Silver also remained firm, with 999 purity silver quoted at over ₹2.36 lakh per kilogram.

In Delhi, 24-carat gold was available at ₹1,47,730 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold was priced at ₹1,35,419. Mumbai recorded slightly higher rates, with 24-carat gold at ₹1,47,990 and 22-carat gold at ₹1,35,658. In Kolkata, 24-carat gold stood at ₹1,47,740, while the 22-carat variety was priced at ₹1,35,428. Chennai continued to report among the highest prices, with 24-carat gold selling at ₹1,48,360 per 10 grams.

Silver prices also remained elevated across the country. The metal was retailing at ₹2,36,730 per kg in Delhi, ₹2,37,130 in Mumbai, ₹2,36,700 in Kolkata, and ₹2,37,710 in Chennai, reflecting strong global momentum and steady domestic demand.

The rise in bullion prices comes as global investors shifted towards safe-haven assets after fresh US labour market data pointed to a slowing economy. The data reinforced hopes that the US Federal Reserve may delay further interest rate hikes, making non-interest-bearing assets like gold more attractive. A weaker US dollar also supported international bullion prices, which in turn lifted domestic rates.

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FSSAI sends notices to beverage firms

India’s food safety regulator has issued notices to six leading energy drink manufacturers over what it describes as misleading promotional claims made on product labels and in advertisements. The action is part of a wider effort by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to ensure that companies do not exaggerate the health or performance benefits of their products.

Among the companies that received notices are Red Bull India, PepsiCo India, Campa Energy, Monster Energy, Celsius and Hell Energy. The regulator has asked the companies to explain claims suggesting that their drinks improve energy, boost physical performance or enhance mental alertness without adequate scientific evidence.

According to officials, the notices were issued after a review found that several marketing messages could mislead consumers into believing the products offer health or performance benefits beyond what has been scientifically established. FSSAI has directed the companies to justify these claims or modify them to comply with food safety and labelling regulations.

The move comes amid growing concern over the rising popularity of energy drinks, especially among teenagers and young adults. Health experts have repeatedly cautioned that many of these beverages contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which may pose health risks if consumed excessively.

The regulator’s action is aimed at promoting greater transparency in food marketing and ensuring consumers receive accurate information before making purchasing decisions. Officials said food businesses are responsible for ensuring that product labels and advertisements are truthful, evidence-based and do not mislead the public.

The companies are expected to respond to the notices within the stipulated timeframe. Depending on their replies, FSSAI may direct changes to product packaging or promotional material and could initiate further regulatory action if violations are established.

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June GST collections rises by 13.9%

India’s gross Goods and Services Tax (GST) collections rose to ₹1.94 lakh crore in June, registering a 13.9 per cent year-on-year growth, reflecting robust domestic demand, higher imports and continued improvement in tax compliance.

The increase was largely driven by healthy economic activity across sectors. GST revenue from domestic transactions recorded strong growth, indicating sustained consumer spending and business momentum. Meanwhile, GST collected on imports stood at ₹60,038 crore, highlighting the steady pace of overseas trade and its contribution to government revenues.

After adjusting for refunds, net GST collections also posted a healthy increase, underlining the resilience of the Indian economy despite an uncertain global environment. The latest figures suggest that consumption and business activity remained strong through June, providing another positive signal for economic growth.

The latest numbers are also expected to provide the government with greater fiscal room to continue investing in infrastructure, public services and development projects while maintaining fiscal discipline.

Economists said the consistent rise in GST collections reflects the expanding formal economy, better compliance by taxpayers and the growing use of digital systems such as e-invoicing and online tax filing. These reforms have improved transparency and helped strengthen revenue collections over the past few years.

Also Read: Gold at ₹1,44,850, Silver hits ₹2,24,930 today

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Gold at ₹1,44,850, Silver hits ₹2,24,930 today

Gold and silver prices traded higher on Thursday, extending their recovery as investors returned to precious metals amid persistent global uncertainty. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold was trading at around ₹1,44,850 per 10 grams, while silver was quoted at nearly ₹2,24,930 per kilogram, reflecting renewed buying interest after recent losses.

The rally was driven by a combination of easing crude oil prices, expectations of a softer US interest rate stance and a weaker dollar outlook. These factors enhanced the appeal of bullion as a safe-haven investment, encouraging traders to increase their exposure to gold and silver.

In the physical market, bullion prices also remained firm across major cities. Twenty-four-carat gold was priced at approximately ₹1,44,550 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold traded around ₹1,32,500 per 10 grams. Silver prices also edged higher, with retail rates varying slightly across cities due to local taxes and dealer margins.

Market participants believe gold is gradually recovering after witnessing a sharp correction in June. However, analysts expect price movements to remain volatile as investors continue to track global economic data, inflation trends and signals from major central banks.

Silver, meanwhile, continued to attract buying support on hopes of improving industrial demand alongside its traditional appeal as a precious metal. Experts believe the metal could remain resilient if manufacturing activity picks up and global economic conditions stabilise further.

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US removes sanctions on four Indian companies

The United States has removed sanctions on four Indian companies that were previously accused of helping Russia evade Western trade restrictions. The decision, announced by the US Treasury Department, marks a significant development in economic ties between Washington and New Delhi.

The four firms, Aashiyaan Shipping & Logistics Pvt Ltd, Alchemical Solutions Pvt Ltd, Global Industrial Chemicals Ltd and RRG Engineering Technologies Pvt Ltd, have been taken off the US sanctions list. Their names have also been removed from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) database, meaning they are no longer subject to the restrictions imposed earlier.

The companies had been sanctioned in 2024 for allegedly supplying goods and services that were believed to support Russia’s defence and industrial sectors following the Ukraine conflict. At the time, the sanctions restricted their access to the US financial system and limited business dealings with American entities.

The US Treasury has not provided a detailed explanation for the decision to delist the companies. However, removal from the sanctions list generally follows a review process in which authorities determine that the basis for the restrictions no longer applies or that legal requirements for delisting have been met.

The move is being viewed as a positive signal for India-US commercial relations, especially as both countries continue to deepen cooperation in trade, technology and strategic sectors. Business experts say the decision could help restore confidence among companies engaged in international trade.

India has consistently maintained that its trade with Russia complies with international obligations and has defended its independent foreign policy, particularly in areas such as energy imports and commercial engagement.

The announcement comes at a time when India and the United States are expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, including defence, clean energy and advanced technology. Officials from both countries have repeatedly emphasised the importance of strengthening economic partnerships despite differences over some geopolitical issues.

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