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Gold at ₹1,46,250, Silver at ₹3,05,100 as bullion prices rise

Gold and silver prices moved higher in the domestic market on Tuesday, reflecting continued investor interest in precious metals amid global economic uncertainty. According to market data, the price of 24-carat gold increased marginally by ₹10 to ₹1,46,250 per 10 grams. Though the rise was modest, it extended the recent firm trend in gold prices.

Silver registered a stronger gain, with prices rising by ₹100 to trade at ₹3,05,100 per kilogram. The metal has been witnessing steady buying, supported by both industrial demand and investment interest, making its price movement more pronounced compared to gold.

The price of 22-carat gold also edged up and was quoted at around ₹1,34,060 per 10 grams. Gold rates across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai, remained largely in line with national averages, with only minor variations due to local taxes and transportation costs.

Market experts attributed the firm prices to ongoing global uncertainties, including concerns over inflation, interest rate outlooks, and geopolitical developments. In such an environment, investors tend to shift towards gold and silver, which are traditionally viewed as safe-haven assets during volatile times.

Jewellery traders noted that retail demand remains cautious at current elevated price levels. Many buyers are making need-based purchases rather than large investments. However, investment demand from long-term investors and high-net-worth individuals continues to lend support to bullion prices.

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Steel prices rise on safeguard duty and exports

Domestic steel prices in India have witnessed a significant uptick in recent weeks, as mills increased hot-rolled coil (HRC) prices by ₹500‑750 per tonne. The move comes amid the recently imposed safeguard duty, rising input costs, and robust export demand, according to market intelligence firm BigMint.

Since mid-December, HRC list prices have climbed between ₹3,000 and ₹5,250 per tonne, pushing trade-level prices close to ₹52,000 per tonne. The rise is being seen across major steel products, including long products, where supply remains tight. The cost pressures are driven largely by higher prices of imported met coke and other raw materials, alongside a weaker rupee, which has increased the landed cost of imports.

Export demand has also supported the price hike. Indian steel exports surged by 31% year-on-year during April to November 2025, benefiting from pre-buying by European buyers ahead of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) implementation. Safeguard duty on HRC imports has further strengthened domestic pricing power, providing relief to local mills and supporting margins.

Industry experts note that while demand is gradually improving, the market is cautious. Some analysts expect that as new capacities come online and demand growth slows, the price momentum could moderate. However, for now, the combination of strong exports, policy measures, and input cost pressures has created a favorable environment for domestic steel producers.

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India’s power utilities make ₹2,701 cr profit after

India’s electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs) have recorded a net profit of ₹2,701 crore in FY25, marking a significant turnaround after years of heavy losses. In FY24, these utilities had reported a combined loss of ₹25,553 crore, and the sector had faced even larger deficits in previous years.

Union Power Minister Manohar Lal welcomed the results, calling them a “new chapter” for the sector. He highlighted that a financially healthy power distribution system is essential for India’s economic growth and development goals.

The turnaround is mainly attributed to several policy and operational reforms. Programs like the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS) helped modernize infrastructure, install smart meters, and improve efficiency. New rules for electricity tariffs and subsidies also made cost recovery more transparent and reliable.

Efficiency has improved significantly. Technical and commercial losses, energy lost or not billed, have dropped from 22.6% in 2013–14 to 15% in FY25. The gap between the cost of supply and revenue earned narrowed to just ₹0.06 per unit, compared with ₹0.78 per unit a decade ago.

Financial management has also strengthened. Outstanding dues to power generators fell dramatically by 96%, from ₹1.39 lakh crore in 2022 to ₹4,927 crore in January 2026. The average payment cycle for utilities shortened from 178 days in FY21 to 113 days in FY25, ensuring smoother cash flow and timely payments.

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DGCA fines IndiGo ₹22.2 cr for Dec. flight disruptions

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has imposed a ₹22.2 crore penalty on IndiGo Airlines for large-scale flight disruptions that occurred in December, triggering widespread passenger inconvenience and renewed debate over airline accountability.

The action follows a detailed inquiry ordered by the DGCA after IndiGo faced severe operational breakdowns during the first week of December. Over a span of three days, the airline cancelled more than 2,500 flights and delayed nearly 1,900 services, leaving over three lakh passengers stranded across major airports. The disruption coincided with the implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms for pilots, which aim to reduce fatigue and enhance flight safety.

According to the DGCA, the crisis was not caused by a single factor but by systemic planning failures. The regulator cited over-ambitious scheduling, insufficient buffer in crew and aircraft deployment, weaknesses in operational software systems, and inadequate preparedness for the new duty norms. These shortcomings, it said, exposed gaps in IndiGo’s management oversight and operational control mechanisms.

Of the total fine, ₹1.8 crore relates to one-time violations of aviation safety and operational rules. The remaining ₹20.4 crore was levied for continued non-compliance over several weeks, during which IndiGo sought repeated exemptions from full implementation of the revised duty norms while continuing to operate a dense flight schedule.

In addition to the monetary penalty, the DGCA issued warnings to senior IndiGo executives, including top management, for failing to anticipate and manage the operational fallout. The regulator also directed changes in responsibility within the airline’s operations control structure.

To ensure long-term corrective action, IndiGo has been asked to submit a ₹50 crore bank guarantee under a Systemic Reform Assurance Plan. The guarantee will be released in phases, subject to DGCA verification of improvements in crew planning, fatigue management, digital systems, leadership oversight, and governance practices.

The penalty has sparked mixed reactions across the aviation sector. While some pilots’ bodies and experts argue the fine is inadequate given the scale of passenger hardship, others point out that existing laws limit the DGCA’s ability to impose harsher financial penalties.

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Gold at ₹1,43,770, Silver slips below ₹2.95 lakh

Gold and silver prices saw a marginal decline in the domestic bullion market on Monday, January 19, 2026, after holding near record highs in recent sessions. According to market data, the price of 24-carat gold slipped by ₹10 to ₹1,43,770 per 10 grams, while silver fell by ₹100 to trade at ₹2,94,900 per kilogram .

The price of 22-carat gold also edged lower by ₹10 and was quoted at ₹1,31,790 per 10 grams. Despite the dip, gold prices continue to remain elevated, reflecting strong investor demand and sustained interest in safe-haven assets.

Across major cities, gold prices showed minor variations. In Mumbai and Kolkata, 24-carat gold was priced at ₹1,43,770 per 10 grams, while Delhi recorded a slightly higher rate of ₹1,43,920. Chennai continued to see higher prices, with gold trading at ₹1,44,860 per 10 grams. Silver prices also differed by location, with Chennai quoting silver at a higher ₹3,09,900 per kilogram, compared with ₹2,94,900 in most other markets .

Market experts said the slight correction comes after a strong rally in precious metals over the past few weeks. Gold and silver prices have surged recently due to global economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and expectations around interest rate movements in major economies. These factors have increased the appeal of bullion as a hedge against inflation and financial market volatility.

Internationally, spot gold and silver prices are hovering close to their recent peaks, lending continued support to domestic prices.

Jewellery demand, investment buying, and safe-haven interest are expected to keep gold and silver prices supported in the coming weeks.

Analysts believe that while short-term fluctuations are likely, the broader outlook for precious metals remains firm due to sustained global demand and cautious investor sentiment.

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India’s first $10bn green ammonia venture in Andhra

Andhra Pradesh has launched India’s first green ammonia project, marking a significant investment in the country’s clean energy and industrial landscape. The $10‑billion facility, developed by AM Green, is set up near Kakinada Port on a brownfield site formerly used for ammonia‑urea production. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan inaugurated the project, emphasizing its potential to drive economic growth and sustainable industrial development.

At full capacity, the complex will produce 1.5 million tonnes of green ammonia annually, making it the largest facility of its kind in the world. Commissioning is planned in phases: 0.5 million tonnes per year by 2027, scaling to 1 million tonnes in 2028, and reaching full output by 2030.

The facility integrates large-scale renewable energy infrastructure, including 7.5 GW of solar and wind power, 1,950 MW of electrolyser capacity for green hydrogen, and 2 GW of continuous renewable energy supported by pumped hydro storage. These capabilities will make the project not only a clean energy milestone but also a strategic hub for industrial hydrogen-based exports.

The venture is expected to generate up to 8,000 jobs during construction, with additional long-term employment in sectors such as renewable energy operations, logistics, port management, and storage. AM Green has already secured supply agreements with Germany’s Uniper and is exploring partnerships with companies in Japan and Singapore, signaling strong international interest.

The project aligns with Andhra Pradesh’s Integrated Clean Energy Policy, 2024, reinforcing the state’s position as a leader in renewable energy and clean fuel exports. Analysts note that this initiative could significantly boost India’s presence in the global green ammonia market, a sector increasingly critical for shipping, power generation, and as a carrier of green hydrogen.

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US-Taiwan strike $250 billion trade deal

The United States and Taiwan have reached a landmark trade agreement worth $250 billion, aiming to strengthen economic ties and boost high-tech investment. The deal reduces tariffs on Taiwanese goods entering the US and secures substantial commitments from Taiwanese companies to invest in American industries, especially semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and energy.

Under the agreement, the US tariff on most Taiwanese imports will drop from 20% to 15%, bringing Taiwan’s trade treatment closer to that of other major Asia-Pacific partners, including Japan and South Korea. Certain goods, such as generic medicines and aircraft parts, will be fully exempt from tariffs. These measures are designed to encourage the expansion of Taiwanese production in the US while making imports more affordable for American consumers.

A major focus of the pact is strengthening domestic semiconductor manufacturing. The US Commerce Department described the deal as a strategic move to “reshore” advanced chip production and create high-tech industrial zones in the country. Taiwanese firms investing in US production facilities will benefit from favorable tariff treatment and support for establishing cutting-edge technology hubs.

The agreement is particularly significant for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which plans to expand its US operations, including new facilities in Arizona. This expansion aligns with Taiwan’s broader commitment to invest in American industries, supporting jobs and innovation in critical technology sectors.

While the pact has been welcomed in Taipei and Washington, China has criticized the agreement, reiterating its opposition to moves that it sees as undermining the “one-China” principle. Beijing has called on the US to adhere to its stance on Taiwan.

The deal still needs approval from Taiwan’s legislature and comes amid legal discussions in the US regarding presidential authority over tariffs. Analysts say that, once implemented, the agreement could reshape the global semiconductor supply chain, strengthen U.S.-Taiwan economic relations, and attract billions in investment, benefiting both countries’ technology and energy sectors.

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Asian markets rise for fourth week on tech boost

Asian stock markets are heading for their fourth straight week of gains, supported mainly by strong performance in technology and semiconductor stocks. Investors have shown renewed confidence in tech shares after encouraging earnings and positive outlooks linked to artificial intelligence (AI) demand.

A key driver of the rally has been Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker. The company reported better-than-expected results and gave an optimistic outlook, pointing to continued strong demand for advanced chips used in AI applications. This lifted TSMC’s shares sharply and boosted confidence across global chip and technology stocks.

Following TSMC’s results, tech stocks in several Asian markets moved higher. South Korean shares, which have a large exposure to semiconductor companies, saw notable gains. Technology-heavy indices across the region also advanced, reflecting strong investor interest in AI-linked businesses.

The positive mood in Asia followed a recovery on Wall Street, where US markets stabilised after recent volatility. Gains in major U.S. technology stocks helped improve overall global sentiment, encouraging investors to take on more risk.

Other asset classes showed mixed movement. Bond markets were largely steady, while US Treasury yields eased slightly after data showed fewer Americans filing for unemployment benefits, suggesting resilience in the US labour market. Oil prices stabilised after recent declines, while traditional safe-haven assets such as gold edged lower as investors moved towards equities.

Despite the recent rally, market participants remain cautious about potential risks, including global economic uncertainty, interest-rate expectations, and geopolitical developments. However, strong earnings from major technology companies have helped offset some of these concerns.

Analysts note that technology stocks, which had faced pressure earlier due to profit-taking and sector rotation, are once again attracting buyers. The renewed focus on AI growth and solid corporate earnings has strengthened the case for further gains, at least in the near term.

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Oil drops 3% after Trump remarks on Iran

Global oil prices dropped by about 3 per cent on Thursday after US President Donald Trump’s remarks suggested a reduced risk of military conflict with Iran. The fall came after oil had risen in recent days due to concerns that unrest in Iran could threaten regional oil exports.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, slipped roughly 2.9 per cent to $64.5 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the US benchmark, declined to around $60 per barrel. The decline reversed the previous day’s gains, which had been driven by fears that escalating tensions in Iran might disrupt global oil supply.

Trump said that reports indicated the killings of protesters in Iran had stopped and that plans for mass executions were no longer moving forward. Speaking from the White House, he added that he would “watch and see” before taking any further action, signaling a cautious approach rather than immediate military involvement. Market participants saw this as a sign that the risk of a major conflict affecting oil supply had lessened.

Analysts said that the president’s comments removed part of the “risk premium” built into oil prices due to geopolitical uncertainty. Rising crude inventories in the United States and potential increases in Venezuelan oil exports also added downward pressure on prices.

Iran produces a significant share of the world’s crude oil, so any disruption there can sharply influence market sentiment. With tensions easing temporarily, even slightly, investors quickly adjusted their expectations, triggering the drop in prices.

While geopolitical risks in the Middle East remain complex, Thursday’s market reaction highlighted how political statements can strongly impact oil prices. Traders continue to monitor developments in Iran and other key oil-producing regions, aware that shifts in risk perception can quickly move global crude markets.

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Gold at ₹1.43 lakh , Silver rises ₹2.95 lakh

Gold and silver prices showed mixed movement in the domestic market on Friday, with gold edging lower and silver recording a small gain in early trade.

The price of 24-carat gold slipped by ₹10 to ₹1,43,610 per 10 grams. Similarly, 22-carat gold declined by ₹10 and was quoted at ₹1,31,640 per 10 grams. Prices remained largely stable across major Indian cities, with only minor variations. In Delhi, 24-carat gold was priced at around ₹1,43,760 per 10 grams, while Chennai saw slightly higher rates at close to ₹1,44,990.

Silver prices, however, moved in the opposite direction. The white metal gained ₹100 to trade at ₹2,95,100 per kilogram in major markets such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata. Chennai continued to quote higher silver prices at around ₹3,10,100 per kilogram.

Market analysts said the mild fall in gold prices was largely due to profit booking after recent record levels. The strength of the US dollar and strong economic data from the United States also weighed on sentiment. These factors have lowered expectations of an early interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve, making gold less attractive in the short term.

In the international market, spot gold prices eased slightly in early Asian trade but continued to stay near recent highs. Silver prices overseas remained volatile but held firm after strong gains earlier in the week, supported by industrial demand and safe-haven buying.

Other precious metals also saw some pressure. Platinum prices declined by nearly 2 per cent, while palladium slipped by about 1 per cent, indicating a broader correction in metal prices.

Looking ahead, experts expect gold and silver prices to remain range-bound in the near term. Global economic data, movements in the US dollar, and signals from central banks will continue to influence the direction of precious metal prices.

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