Category: Beyond

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Beyond

Reliance gets US permit to import Venezuelan oil

Reliance Industries has received permission from the United States to import oil from Venezuela. This is a significant change because strict US sanctions had previously made it very hard for companies to trade with Venezuela’s oil industry.

The licence was issued by the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). It gives Reliance the legal right to buy, bring into India, and sell Venezuelan crude oil without breaking US rules. This approval comes after the US government relaxed some of its sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports following political changes in that country.

Reliance had stopped buying Venezuelan oil in 2025 because of the sanctions. Now, with this new permit, it can resume these imports. Venezuelan crude is known for being heavy and usually cheaper than many other types of oil. Buying it at a lower price could help Reliance reduce its fuel costs and improve profits at its large refineries, especially the massive Jamnagar complex in western India.

The move is also part of a broader shift in US policy. Washington has eased restrictions on Venezuela’s energy sector, allowing not just Reliance but also major global oil companies to operate more freely there. Firms such as Chevron, BP, and Shell are expected to expand their involvement in Venezuela after the sanctions were loosened.

Besides helping Reliance, the licence may benefit Venezuela by boosting its oil exports and revenues. For the United States, allowing more companies to trade with Venezuela could strengthen economic ties with countries that purchase Venezuelan oil.

Also Read: IndiGo to hire over 1,000 pilots

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DGCA fines Air India ₹1 crore over safety

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has imposed a ₹1 crore fine on Air India after finding that one of the airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft operated eight passenger flights in November 2025 without a valid airworthiness permit. This permit is a mandatory certification that confirms an aircraft is safe and fit to fly. Operating flights without it is a serious breach of aviation safety rules.

The DGCA noted that such lapses erode public confidence in air travel safety, and emphasized that accountability rests with airline management. The regulator specifically held Air India CEO Campbell Wilson and other senior officials responsible for the oversight. The fine is required to be paid within 30 days, and the airline has been instructed to ensure strict compliance with all regulatory norms moving forward.

Air India has said that the issue was self-reported voluntarily and that corrective steps have already been implemented to prevent recurrence. The airline also stated that no safety incidents occurred during the eight flights in question.

This fine comes amid heightened scrutiny of Air India’s operations following a tragic Boeing crash last year that resulted in multiple fatalities. Aviation experts say the DGCA’s action underscores the importance of maintaining strict safety standards, especially as airlines expand their fleets and increase flight operations.

The DGCA’s investigation revealed that the lapse was primarily due to administrative oversight. While the aircraft itself remained mechanically sound, the absence of the formal airworthiness certificate constitutes a regulatory violation. Aviation authorities highlight that even minor paperwork lapses can undermine public trust and have legal consequences, which is why regulators are taking a firm stance.

The incident has sparked discussion in the industry about the need for stronger internal checks and robust monitoring systems within airlines. Experts suggest that airlines must reinforce both technical compliance and operational oversight to ensure that safety procedures are not compromised.

Air India’s management has assured passengers that safety remains its top priority and that measures have been strengthened to comply fully with DGCA guidelines. The fine, though significant, is seen by regulators as a corrective step rather than a punitive measure, aimed at reinforcing accountability and protecting passenger trust.

Also Read: Indian GCCs cut 6,000 jobs in 2025 amid global pressures

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India’s January retail inflation at 2.75%

India’s retail inflation for January 2026 rose to 2.75% year-on-year, according to the first reading from the updated Consumer Price Index (CPI) series with base year 2024. This marks the debut of a new methodology aimed at better reflecting modern household spending patterns. The previous CPI series, based on 2012 data, is now replaced to include more goods and services and updated weights for different items.

The new CPI also reduces the weight of food and beverages, which historically caused high volatility in overall inflation. Experts say this makes the new series a more accurate measure of current consumer price trends, helping policymakers and analysts better track inflation dynamics.

Food prices, which had seen declines for the past seven months, returned to positive territory in January, rising 2.13%. While food inflation has moderated, prices of housing and services saw slight increases, contributing to the overall CPI. Despite these shifts, the 2.75% figure remains comfortably within the Reserve Bank of India’s 2–6% target range, signalling that price pressures are moderate and unlikely to spur immediate policy changes.

Economists note that comparisons with historical CPI figures should be made cautiously due to the base-year revision. However, the updated methodology is expected to provide a realistic picture of how households spend today, capturing a broader range of goods, services, and lifestyle-related expenses.

The government’s move to revise the CPI reflects an effort to modernize statistical reporting and improve the reliability of economic indicators. This change will help in more informed decision-making for monetary policy, wage adjustments, and planning of social welfare programs.

Also Read: Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser’s $42 mn pay sparks debate

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AI jitters trigger global stock market selloff

In the United States, major indices closed lower. The S&P 500 dropped around 1.6%, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq 100 fell nearly 2%. Investors became worried that heavy spending on AI may not quickly translate into strong profits for companies, especially large technology firms.

The weakness in the US affected Asian markets the next day. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index slipped about 0.7%, with shares in Japan and South Korea among the biggest losers. Technology stocks were hit the hardest, as global investors reduced exposure to riskier assets.

Back in India, markets also reacted to global cues. The Sensex and the Nifty 50 saw notable declines, mainly due to selling in IT and tech-related stocks. Broader market sentiment remained weak as traders tracked international developments.

Apart from AI concerns, investors are also watching US economic signals closely. A strong jobs report has reduced expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates aggressively this year. Higher interest rates generally make investors more cautious, especially toward growth stocks.

Also Read: Rolls-Royce bets bigger on India after PM Modi meet

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Gold ₹1,54,800, silver ₹2,41,800, prices bounce back

Gold and silver prices in India recovered on Friday after a recent slump, driven by bargain hunting from investors. On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), gold for April delivery rose about 1.3% to ₹1,54,800 per 10 grams, while silver for March delivery climbed around 2.2% to ₹2,41,800 per kilogram. Traders said the rebound reflects buying at lower levels after the sharp sell-offs earlier this week.

Despite the recovery, silver remains roughly 42% below its peak, highlighting the continuing volatility in the market. Analysts say the recent upswing is short-term, largely fueled by investors looking to seize value after prices dipped.

Global markets mirrored this trend. Spot gold rebounded nearly 1% to around $4,966 per ounce, while spot silver gained over 2%, recovering from earlier losses. However, strong US economic data, particularly employment figures, tempered hopes of imminent interest rate cuts, keeping precious metals under some pressure.

Market experts note that while prices are volatile, the long-term outlook for both gold and silver remains positive. Central bank buying and safe-haven demand continue to provide support. Additionally, inflows into gold and silver exchange-traded funds (ETFs) indicate steady investor interest.

For buyers, the current situation presents both opportunity and caution. Bargain hunting has fueled recent gains, yet overall prices are still far below previous highs, emphasizing the need for careful, measured investing in these metals.

Also Read: Sensex drops 750+ points, Nifty slips below 25,600

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RBI targets bank mis-selling

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed new draft rules to stop banks from mis-selling financial products to customers. The central bank wants to end incentive structures that push employees and agents to aggressively sell insurance, mutual funds and other third-party products.

Under the proposed guidelines, banks will not be allowed to design reward systems, sales competitions or performance targets that encourage staff to prioritise sales over customer needs. The RBI has made it clear that employees and direct sales agents must not receive direct or indirect incentives from third-party companies for promoting their products.

The move comes after concerns that customers are often pressured into buying products that may not suit their financial goals, income level or risk capacity. In some cases, products are bundled with loans or other banking services without giving customers a clear choice.

The draft rules define mis-selling as selling products that are unsuitable, failing to disclose important details, or using misleading tactics to influence customer decisions. If mis-selling is proven, banks will be required to fully refund customers and compensate them for any financial loss.

The RBI has also targeted unfair digital practices. The draft prohibits the use of “dark patterns”, design features in apps or websites that mislead or pressure customers into making purchases. Banks will need to review their systems and remove such tactics.

Another important proposal is that banks can contact customers for marketing only with explicit consent and during specified hours. This is aimed at reducing harassment through repeated calls and messages.

The central bank has invited public comments on the draft guidelines until early March 2026. If finalised, the new rules are expected to come into effect from July 1, 2026.

Also Read: RBI clears 9.95% stake IDFC first, then Federal Bank

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Gold near ₹2 lakh, Silver above ₹4 lakh

Gold and silver prices witnessed volatility in recent sessions after scaling record highs in the domestic market. Gold futures on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) recently approached ₹2 lakh per 10 grams, while silver surged past ₹4 lakh per kilogram before witnessing profit-booking.

The pullback comes amid a firmer US dollar and shifting expectations around the US Federal Reserve’s rate trajectory. Stronger economic data from the US reduced immediate hopes of aggressive rate cuts, leading to some pressure on bullion prices. Market participants also trimmed positions after the sharp rally seen over the past few weeks.

Despite near-term fluctuations, analysts maintain a constructive outlook on precious metals. According to market experts, gold and silver could be entering a 3–5 year structural bull cycle supported by macroeconomic and sectoral fundamentals.

Central bank buying remains a key pillar for gold. Several global central banks continue to add to their gold reserves as part of diversification strategies, reinforcing long-term demand. Additionally, persistent geopolitical tensions and inflationary risks are sustaining gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset.

Silver is benefiting from a dual demand dynamic. Alongside its role as a store of value, silver demand is being driven by industrial applications, particularly in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and electronics manufacturing. The expansion of clean energy infrastructure is expected to support medium- to long-term consumption trends.

Investment advisors recommend a disciplined approach. Rather than chasing elevated levels, investors are advised to accumulate on corrections. A strategic allocation of 5–10% of portfolio assets in precious metals is broadly considered prudent for diversification. Portfolios with disproportionately high exposure may warrant rebalancing.

Also Read: Sensex falls 400+ points, Nifty below 25,850

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US edits India trade deal factsheet

The White House has revised its factsheet on the proposed India-US interim trade deal, making key changes to language on agricultural imports, investment commitments and digital taxation following concerns flagged by New Delhi.

In the earlier version of the document, the US had stated that India would cut or eliminate tariffs on a list of American agricultural products, including tree nuts, fruits, soybean oil, wine, spirits and “certain pulses.” The mention of pulses,  a politically sensitive crop in India,  drew attention because India is the world’s largest producer and consumer of lentils, chickpeas and other pulses, and domestic farmers depend heavily on tariff protection.

In the updated factsheet, the specific reference to “certain pulses” has been removed. Instead, the language now broadly mentions improved access for a “wide range of US agricultural products,” without naming individual commodities.

Another notable revision relates to India’s proposed purchases of American goods. The original text said India was “committed” to buying more than $500 billion worth of US products over the next five years, including energy, coal and technology equipment. The revised version softens this to say India “intends” to purchase such goods, signalling that the figure is indicative rather than a binding obligation. Mentions of agricultural goods within this purchase commitment have also been omitted.

Changes were also made to the section on digital trade. The earlier draft suggested India would remove or roll back its digital services tax. The revised document now says both countries will work toward negotiating digital trade rules, bringing the language in line with prior joint statements.

Sources indicated that the corrections were made to accurately reflect what had been mutually agreed upon.

Also Read: Rupee declines 6 paise to ₹90.62 in early trade

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Rupee declines 6 paise to ₹90.62 in early trade

The Indian rupee edged lower in morning trade on Wednesday, falling 6 paise to ₹90.62 against the US dollar, as continued demand for the greenback and cautious global cues weighed on sentiment. The currency opened at ₹90.56 in the interbank foreign exchange market but slipped further during early deals.

Currency dealers attributed the decline mainly to sustained dollar buying by importers, particularly oil companies, which require large volumes of dollars to settle overseas payments. This demand for the US currency has kept the rupee under pressure in recent sessions.

The rupee had ended the previous session 10 paise higher at ₹90.56, recovering marginally after earlier weakness. However, the rebound was short-lived as fresh demand for dollars and cautious investor sentiment weighed on the domestic unit in early trade.

Global developments have also contributed to the rupee’s weakness. A firm US dollar in international markets, coupled with geopolitical concerns and uncertainty around trade-related matters, has affected emerging market currencies, including the rupee. Market participants remain watchful of developments related to India-US trade discussions, as well as global economic signals that could influence currency movements.

A weaker rupee has mixed consequences for the economy. On the positive side, it can make Indian exports more competitive in global markets, as goods priced in rupees become cheaper for foreign buyers. On the downside, it increases the cost of imports, especially crude oil and other essential commodities, which can add to inflationary pressures.

Also Read: Gold at ₹1,58,790, Silver slips to ₹2,89,900

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Gold at ₹1,58,790, Silver slips to ₹2,89,900

Gold prices in India witnessed a marginal rise on Wednesday, while silver prices edged lower. The price of 24-carat gold increased by ₹10, taking the rate of 10 grams to ₹1,58,790 in key markets such as Mumbai and Kolkata. In Delhi, gold was priced slightly higher at ₹1,58,940, while Chennai recorded ₹1,59,050 for the same quantity.

Similarly, 22-carat gold prices also moved up by ₹10. Ten grams of 22-carat gold were priced at ₹1,45,560 in cities including Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad. In Delhi, the rate stood at ₹1,45,710, while Chennai saw a slightly higher price of ₹1,45,790.

In contrast, silver prices softened during the session. The price of one kilogram of silver fell by ₹100 to ₹2,89,900 in Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. In Chennai, silver continued to trade at a premium, priced at ₹2,99,900 per kilogram.

Market participants attributed the mixed trend to cautious investor sentiment and global economic cues. Gold continues to attract steady demand as a traditional safe-haven asset, especially during periods of uncertainty. However, the gains remain limited due to fluctuating global factors and profit booking at higher levels.

Silver, which has both investment and industrial demand components, tends to experience sharper price movements. The slight dip reflects subdued buying interest in the domestic market.

Also Read: Sensex up 50 points, Nifty holds above 25,950