India’s microfinance sector contracted in the first quarter after a previous rebound. Uneven monsoon progress weighed on rural demand and lender caution grew. The sector’s portfolio shrank four percent to ₹3.26 lakh crore by June end. Business usually slows during this period, but rainfall added concerns. Lenders remain cautious about growing loans due to uncertain patterns.
Oil Price Today (August 26): Crude oil tanks 6% in two days to hover near $85. What’s behind the decline?
Brent crude futures were down $2.35, or 2.65%, at $86 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell $1.94, or 2.36%, to $80.42.