Category: Beyond

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Gold slips to ₹141,220, silver falls to ₹211,710

Gold prices stayed under pressure on Thursday as easing geopolitical tensions and a stronger US dollar reduced demand for safe-haven assets. Many investors also booked profits after the recent rally.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange, gold futures for August delivery were trading 0.16% lower at ₹141,220 per 10 grams around 9:13 am. MCX silver futures were also weak, slipping 0.96% to ₹211,710 per kg at the same time.

Retail gold prices across major Indian cities also saw a mild decline. According to market data, 24-carat gold was trading around ₹99,000 per 10 grams in several metros, while 22-carat gold stayed near ₹90,700 per 10 grams. Silver prices too softened, with the metal hovering around ₹1.08 lakh per kilogram in key markets.

The recent cooling in prices comes after a sharp rise earlier this month, when investors rushed to precious metals amid fears of rising tensions in the Middle East. But as geopolitical worries eased and concerns over supply disruptions faded, risk sentiment improved. That pushed some traders back towards equities and other riskier assets.

A stronger US dollar added more pressure on gold. Since the yellow metal is priced globally in dollars, a firmer greenback makes it costlier for buyers using other currencies, which can reduce demand. Market participants are also watching signals from the US Federal Reserve closely, as worries that interest rates may stay higher for longer continue to weigh on bullion.

The weakness was also visible in exchange-traded funds linked to precious metals. Gold and silver ETFs fell as much as 4% in recent sessions, reflecting investor caution and profit booking after months of strong gains. Analysts said the mix of a firm dollar, easing geopolitical stress and uncertainty over future rate cuts has temporarily softened sentiment for precious metals.

Even so, market experts remain positive on gold over the longer term. Ongoing global uncertainty, central bank buying and expectations of eventual monetary easing could continue to support prices. Many investors still see gold as a useful hedge against inflation and wider economic volatility.

Also Read: Tata Motors bets on value-led passenger vehicle growth

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Tata Motors bets on value-led passenger vehicle growth

Tata Motors has laid out an ambitious plan for its passenger vehicle business, aiming to nearly double revenue and sales volumes by 2031 as it works to strengthen its position in India’s crowded auto market.

The company expects passenger vehicle revenue to rise from about ₹3.36 lakh crore in FY26 to more than ₹6 lakh crore by FY31. During the same period, sales volumes are projected to climb from around 6.4 lakh units to over 12 lakh units.

Tata Motors is also targeting a market share of about 20%, supported by a wider product range, stronger electric vehicle offerings and growth across multiple fuel technologies, including CNG and hybrid models.

To reach these goals, the automaker plans to invest heavily in passenger vehicles and electric mobility over the next five years. It will focus on launching new models, expanding production capacity and improving profitability. The company expects its manufacturing base to grow significantly to meet future demand.

The strategy comes at a time when competition in India’s auto sector is heating up, especially in the electric vehicle space. Rivals such as Mahindra & Mahindra and JSW MG Motor have been expanding quickly, pushing Tata Motors to move faster with its own plans.

Company executives said future growth will come from a mix of premium vehicles, electric cars and technology-driven offerings. Tata Motors is also aiming for better operating margins and stronger cash generation as part of its long-term roadmap.

The plan reflects the company’s confidence in the long-term potential of India’s passenger vehicle market. Rising incomes, growing cities and increasing interest in cleaner mobility are expected to support demand over the coming years.

Also Read: Vedanta promoter trims stake through ₹2,149 cr block deal

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Trump sets quantum cybersecurity deadlines

The United States has launched a major effort to strengthen its digital defences against future cyber threats posed by quantum computing, with President Donald Trump signing a new executive order that sets firm deadlines for the adoption of post-quantum cryptography across federal systems.

The move comes amid growing concerns that powerful quantum computers could eventually crack many of today’s widely used encryption methods, potentially exposing sensitive government, business and personal data. Cybersecurity experts have long warned about a future scenario known as “harvest now, decrypt later,” where attackers collect encrypted information today in the hope of breaking it once quantum technology becomes powerful enough.

Under the new directive, federal agencies will be required to accelerate their transition to post-quantum cryptography, a new generation of encryption designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers. The order establishes clear timelines for protecting critical government systems and high-value digital assets over the coming years.

The White House said the initiative is aimed at safeguarding national security, critical infrastructure and the broader digital economy. Officials warned that adversaries are investing heavily in advanced computing technologies, making it essential for the US to prepare before quantum threats become a reality.

Alongside the cybersecurity measures, the administration also unveiled a broader quantum technology strategy focused on accelerating research and development. The plan includes efforts to advance next-generation quantum computers, strengthen domestic innovation and maintain US leadership in a field increasingly viewed as strategically important.

The executive order reflects a growing recognition that quantum computing represents both an opportunity and a security challenge. While the technology promises breakthroughs in science, medicine and artificial intelligence, it could also undermine traditional cybersecurity protections if preparations are delayed.

By setting clear deadlines and accelerating the shift to quantum-resistant security, Washington hopes to stay ahead of emerging threats and ensure that critical data remains protected in the decades ahead.

Also Read: China leads supercomputer rankings after 9 years

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Gold slips to ₹1,44,590, silver eases to ₹2,44,900

Gold and silver prices edged lower on Wednesday, with bullion continuing to face pressure from weak global trends and a firm US dollar.

In the domestic market, gold prices dipped by ₹10 to ₹1,44,590 per 10 grams, while silver slipped ₹100 to trade at ₹2,44,900 per kilogram. The decline comes after a stretch of volatility in precious metals, as investors weighed global economic signals and shifting expectations around interest rates.

The softer tone in bullion markets was largely driven by a stronger dollar, which makes gold more expensive for buyers holding other currencies. At the same time, hopes of tighter monetary policy in the US have reduced the appeal of non-yielding assets such as gold and silver.

Silver has seen sharper swings than gold in recent sessions, reflecting both investment demand and its industrial use. Traders say that makes the metal more sensitive to changes in global growth outlook, factory activity and commodity market sentiment.

Even so, jewellers and retail buyers are still watching the correction closely. For many households, lower prices are seen as a chance to buy for weddings, festivals or long-term savings. Some analysts believe physical demand could improve if prices stay at these levels or soften further.

Market participants also pointed to easing geopolitical worries and improved risk appetite in equity markets, which have taken some shine off safe-haven buying. When investors feel more comfortable taking risks, demand for precious metals often cools.

Also Read: Sensex rallies over 650 points, Nifty tops 24,000

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India may stay away from sugar exports

India is unlikely to return to the global sugar export market anytime soon, as worsening weather risks and rising ethanol production are expected to keep domestic sugar supplies under pressure for several years.

Industry officials, traders and analysts say the combination of a developing El Niño weather pattern and the government’s push for ethanol blending is reducing the amount of sugar available for export. The situation has triggered concerns across the sugar sector, with fears that India could even become a sugar importer within the next few years if production continues to lag demand.

India was once the world’s second-largest sugar exporter, shipping an average of 6.8 million tonnes annually in the five seasons leading up to 2022-23. However, exports have sharply declined. This season, shipments were limited to about 800,000 tonnes before restrictions were tightened to protect domestic supplies.

The biggest concern is the weather. A strengthening El Niño is threatening to weaken monsoon rainfall, delay sugarcane planting and reduce crop yields in key producing states. Lower cane availability could significantly affect sugar production over the next three seasons.

At the same time, a growing share of sugarcane is being diverted towards ethanol production as India pursues its clean-fuel and energy-security goals. While the ethanol programme helps reduce dependence on imported crude oil, it also leaves less cane available for sugar manufacturing.

Current estimates suggest India’s sugar output could fall to around 27.9 million tonnes, below annual domestic consumption of roughly 28.5 million tonnes. If this gap persists, inventories may drop to multi-year lows, leaving little room for exports and increasing the possibility of imports by 2027-28,  something India has not needed in nearly a decade.

For consumers, there is no immediate cause for alarm, but the tightening supply outlook is being closely watched. For global markets, India’s reduced presence could keep sugar prices elevated, while farmers and millers brace for an uncertain period shaped by climate pressures and shifting energy priorities.

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Gold rises to ₹1,46,520, silver down at ₹2,49,900

Gold prices in the national capital inched higher on Tuesday, rising to ₹1,46,520 per 100 grams, while silver prices slipped  to ₹2,49,900 per kilogram amid mixed trends in the domestic bullion market.

The marginal rise in gold prices reflects continued investor interest in safe-haven assets, even as global financial markets remain cautious. Traders said the yellow metal is finding support from uncertainty surrounding economic growth, inflation trends and geopolitical developments across key regions.

Silver, however, witnessed a slight decline after recent gains. Market participants attributed the fall to mild profit-booking and subdued industrial demand expectations. Unlike gold, silver is influenced by both investment demand and industrial consumption, making its price movements more volatile.

Across major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, gold prices remained largely stable. The rate of 24-carat gold continued to hover near record highs, while 22-carat gold prices also held firm. Jewellers said retail demand has remained steady despite elevated prices, with consumers making selective purchases for weddings, festivals and investment purposes.

The precious metal has maintained its appeal as a store of value during periods of uncertainty. Many investors continue to allocate a portion of their portfolios to gold as a hedge against inflation and market volatility.

Meanwhile, silver’s outlook remains tied to industrial activity, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy, electronics and manufacturing. Any signs of stronger industrial demand could provide support to silver prices in the coming weeks.

Market experts expect bullion prices to remain range-bound in the near term, with global economic developments and currency movements likely to influence trading patterns. For consumers, the latest movement indicates a stable market environment, with only minor fluctuations in gold and silver prices despite ongoing uncertainty in global markets.

Also Read: Sensex gains 50 points, Nifty holds above 24,100

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CCPA penalises Storia, Mrs Bector over product claims

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has imposed penalties of ₹1 lakh each on Storia Foods and Mrs Bector Food Specialities for allegedly making misleading claims about their products. The action comes as regulators tighten scrutiny of advertising practices and seek greater transparency for consumers.

According to the consumer watchdog, both companies promoted certain products using “100%” claims that could potentially mislead consumers regarding the nature, composition or quality of the products. The CCPA observed that such claims may create an impression that products are entirely natural or free from additives, even when packaging disclosures indicate otherwise.

The authority said advertisements must provide accurate and complete information so that consumers can make informed purchasing decisions. It noted that broad claims such as “100%” should be backed by clear evidence and should not exaggerate product attributes in a manner that could influence consumer behaviour unfairly.

As part of its order, the CCPA directed the companies to discontinue or modify the disputed advertisements and ensure future promotional material complies with consumer protection guidelines. The regulator also instructed them to issue corrective disclosures to address concerns arising from the advertising claims.

The case highlights the increasing focus on marketing practices in India’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. In recent years, regulators have intensified efforts to curb misleading advertisements, particularly those involving health, nutrition and product purity claims. Authorities believe consumers should not be left with inaccurate impressions because of promotional language that lacks adequate clarification.

Consumer rights advocates welcomed the move, arguing that stricter enforcement helps improve accountability and encourages responsible advertising. They say shoppers often rely on packaging and advertisements while making purchasing decisions, making transparency essential.

For companies, the order serves as a reminder that marketing messages must be supported by verifiable facts and presented in a manner that does not create confusion. Industry experts expect regulators to continue monitoring advertising claims across sectors as consumer awareness grows.

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Rupee slips to 94.48 due to global uncertainty

The Indian rupee weakened against the US dollar on Monday, slipping 15 paise to 94.48 in early trade despite a strong rally in domestic equity markets. The contrasting movement highlighted the different factors influencing stocks and currencies, with investors balancing optimism in equities against caution in the foreign exchange market.

While the rupee remained under pressure, benchmark stock indices started the week on a positive note. The BSE Sensex climbed more than 450 points during early trade, while the Nifty advanced comfortably above key levels, supported by gains in information technology, energy and select banking stocks. Investors welcomed positive global cues and signs of easing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

Reports of progress in diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran improved risk sentiment across global markets. Asian equities traded largely higher, encouraging investors to return to riskier assets. The easing of crude oil prices from recent highs also boosted confidence, as lower oil costs are generally beneficial for India’s economy and corporate earnings.

However, the rupee failed to benefit from the improved market mood. Forex traders said the local currency was weighed down by continued strength in the US dollar and concerns over global economic uncertainties. Demand for the greenback from importers and fluctuations in foreign fund flows also added pressure on the domestic currency.

Market experts noted that equity investors were focusing on prospects of stable earnings growth and favourable global developments, while currency traders remained more concerned about external risks. The rupee’s performance continues to be influenced by factors such as crude oil prices, overseas investment flows and expectations surrounding US monetary policy.

For investors, Monday’s session offered a reminder that stocks and currencies often respond differently to the same set of events. While Dalal Street drew strength from improving global sentiment, the rupee continued to face headwinds, reflecting caution in the broader financial landscape.

Going ahead, market participants will closely track oil prices, foreign investor activity and global developments for further direction.

Also Read: Gold slips to ₹1.46 lakh, silver trades at ₹2.49 lakh

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Gold slips to ₹1.46 lakh, silver trades at ₹2.49 lakh

Gold prices edged lower on Monday, offering slight relief to buyers after recent volatility in the bullion market. The decline was modest, but it reflected cautious sentiment among investors as they tracked global economic developments and movements in international precious metal prices.

According to the latest rates released by the India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), 24-carat gold slipped by ₹10 to ₹1,46,070 per 10 grams. Other gold categories also witnessed minor declines. The price of 22-carat gold stood at ₹1,33,800 per 10 grams, while 18-carat gold was quoted at ₹1,09,553 per 10 grams. Despite the small correction, gold continues to trade near record-high levels.

Silver prices also weakened during the session. The white metal fell by ₹100 and was trading at ₹2,49,900 per kilogram, reflecting cautious sentiment in the commodities market. Analysts said silver remains sensitive to both industrial demand expectations and broader global economic signals.

The latest movement comes after precious metals witnessed sharp swings in recent weeks. Investors have been closely monitoring geopolitical developments, inflation trends and expectations regarding interest-rate decisions by major central banks. These factors continue to influence demand for safe-haven assets such as gold and silver.

For retail buyers, especially those planning jewellery purchases for weddings or upcoming festive occasions, the slight decline may provide a small opportunity to enter the market. However, jewellers advise consumers to keep an eye on daily price movements, as bullion rates can change quickly in response to international developments.

Also Read: Sensex rallies 450 points, Nifty crosses 24,150 mark

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SEBI clears reforms to boost markets

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has announced a fresh set of reforms aimed at making India’s financial markets more efficient, flexible and investor-friendly. The decisions, approved during the regulator’s latest board meeting, are expected to benefit investors, mutual funds, listed companies and alternative investment funds alike.

Among the key announcements is the revival of open-market share buybacks through stock exchanges. The mechanism, which allows companies to repurchase shares directly from the market, will return from August 2026 after being largely phased out in recent years. The move is expected to provide companies with a more flexible way to return surplus cash to shareholders while improving market participation.

SEBI has also allowed mutual funds to access intraday borrowing facilities to address temporary cash flow mismatches. The regulator said the borrowing facility can be used for short-term liquidity needs and will help fund houses manage redemption pressures more effectively. Industry participants believe the decision will strengthen operational efficiency without increasing systemic risk.

The board also approved measures to simplify fundraising for Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). Faster approvals and streamlined processes are expected to help fund managers launch new investment schemes more quickly, supporting capital flow into startups, emerging businesses and other growth sectors.

In addition, SEBI introduced changes aimed at strengthening India’s broader financial ecosystem. The regulator approved reforms related to municipal bonds, securitisation and fundraising norms for smaller listed companies. These steps are designed to deepen capital markets and improve access to funding across different segments of the economy.

The latest decisions reflect SEBI’s continued focus on balancing market development with investor protection. By reducing procedural hurdles and improving liquidity management, the regulator hopes to make India’s capital markets more competitive and attractive for both domestic and global investors.

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