Gold demand drops 70% after sharp duty hike in India
Demand fell to about 7.5 tonnes in the fortnight ended May 27 from around 25 tonnes a year earlier, according to industry estimates. The government increased the import duty on gold to 15% from 6% with effect from May 13.
RBI books ₹1.69 lakh crore forex gains amid record dollar sales
The Reserve Bank of India earned ₹1.69 lakh crore from foreign exchange transactions in FY26, up 52% from the previous year, as it sold a record $53.13 billion from forex reserves to support the rupee amid a 9.5% depreciation. RBI’s total foreign income rose 27% to ₹3.28 lakh crore, helped by higher returns from foreign […]
CSR norm tweak to boost social stock exchanges
Companies can now allocate up to 10% of their annual CSR spending via zero coupon zero principal instruments from not-for-profit organizations listed on social stock exchanges. This move aims to boost social stock exchanges by attracting more investors and encouraging companies to engage in vetted, outcome-oriented social projects.
MSCI index rejig, US-Iran deal worries spook Dalal Street
Indian stock markets experienced a significant drop on Friday, with major indices closing lower. This decline was largely driven by outflows related to MSCI index rebalancing. Despite a tentative ceasefire extension between the US and Iran easing oil prices, market sentiment remained subdued. Foreign investors were net sellers, while domestic institutions provided some support.
US stocks today: US stocks hits new closing highs on tech strength, Middle East deal hopes
Wall Street ended at record highs on Friday, driven by strong tech earnings and optimism around AI-led growth. Dell’s upbeat forecast lifted chip and software stocks, while investors tracked developments on a potential US-Iran deal. Despite inflation concerns, major indexes posted weekly and monthly gains.
India, Canada launch trade & investment forum
India and Canada have launched a trade and investment forum to boost commercial engagement and enhance connectivity. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit also saw discussions on an ambitious economic partnership agreement. Separately, Goyal met with US business leaders in New York to expand trade, investment, and innovation partnerships.
Dell shares soar more than 30% on strong earnings
Following robust financial results, Dell’s stock soared, reflecting a successful pivot toward AI servers that has truly paid off, surpassing the company’s historical reliance on PC sales. This evolution strategically positions Dell at the forefront of the booming AI infrastructure industry. Other server companies also enjoyed beneficial stock trends.
Moody’s upgrades Reliance Industries rating to Baa1, now 2 notches above India’s sovereign rating
The ratings agency said Reliance benefits from “counter-cyclical business segments, significant international exposure (with over one-third of revenues derived from exports), and limited reliance on government-linked revenues,” which support its ability to generate stable earnings across business cycles.
Sebi eases nomination rules for demat accounts, mutual funds. Check full details
SEBI has relaxed nomination norms for demat accounts and mutual funds starting September 1, 2026. Nomination is mandatory for single holders unless opted out, but optional for joint accounts. The process is simplified, reducing documentation and enabling digital submissions.
RBI to explore CBDC pilot in cross-border transactions
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) plans to expand its digital rupee pilot to more direct benefit transfer schemes and the domestic retail space in the current fiscal year. Additionally, the RBI is exploring the use of CBDC in cross-border transactions, signing MoUs and engaging in bilateral discussions for pilot projects.