FERTILIZER PRICE INCREASE INDIA
UP allows wheat sale at MSP without online registration
Uttar Pradesh farmers can now sell wheat at government procurement centers without prior online registration. This decision comes after many farmers faced difficulties registering and were forced to sell to middlemen. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered immediate implementation. Farmers can now sell their wheat as they did in previous years, ensuring fair prices for their produce.
Wheat rallies on weather woes and Iran-linked fertilizer crunch
Wheat prices are climbing significantly this week. Fertilizer shortages, exacerbated by the Iran war, are also a major concern. These factors are creating worries about the global wheat supply.
Rice prices in Asia soar as Iran war fallout threatens supply
Thai rice prices have seen their sharpest rise in over two years, driven by escalating fuel and fertilizer costs linked to the Iran conflict. Despite potential de-escalation, elevated input costs are expected to persist, threatening future rice output.
IMF, World Bank meetings show limits in mitigating shocks, reliance on US for solutions
Global finance leaders met amid Middle East war news. They acknowledged their limited ability to counter economic damage from frequent geopolitical shocks. Reliance on U.S. leadership for crisis resolution is no longer assured. The IMF and World Bank pledged aid to developing nations. Officials expressed frustration with ongoing economic calamities.
Coming soon: Price hike round 3 in four months for durables
Consumers face another price hike on electronics like ACs, TVs, and smartphones by end April. This marks the third increase in four months. Rising costs of plastics and memory chips are forcing brands to raise prices. Daily essentials like soaps and detergents are also becoming costlier. This trend impacts consumer demand significantly.
Iran war pushes Asia to think twice before doubling down on LNG
A Middle East conflict has disrupted global liquefied natural gas supply. This has caused prices to surge, impacting Asian nations heavily reliant on the fuel. Plans for widespread adoption of gas are now uncertain. Countries are seeking alternatives, potentially leading to long-term shifts in energy strategies and reduced demand for LNG.
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West Asia War: India’s BBB rating seen stable despite energy shock; S&P flags corporate stress, weaker credit growth
West Asia War: India's sovereign rating remains stable despite rising energy costs. However, supply disruptions for food and fuel could impact company credit quality. Top companies may see earnings drop, increasing debt ratios. Sectors like refining and airlines are most vulnerable. Banks might see slower credit growth. Government revenue could be affected by fuel price support measures.

US Fed's John Williams says Iran war is already driving up inflation pressures
Federal Reserve Bank of New York President John Williams said Thursday that the Middle East war is already driving up inflationary pressures, and uncertainty over the outlook is limiting how much the central bank can say about what's next for interest rate policy.

Volvo Car India to recalibrate prices by up to Rs 1 lakh from May 1
In a move reflecting global economic trends, Volvo Car will implement a price increase of up to Rs 1 lakh for its vehicles in India effective May 1. The company cites international supply chain disruptions and currency variations as driving factors. If the economic climate doesn't improve, further hikes could follow.

IMF chief warns of 'tough times' if oil prices stay high
IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned Wednesday of difficult times ahead for the global economy if war in the Middle East is unresolved and oil prices stay high, adding that inflation risks could seep into food prices. "We are concerned about risks for inflation moving into food prices should the delivery of fertilizers at a reasonable price (not be) restarted soon," Georgieva said.

Iran war puts US companies in wait-and-see mode, Fed Beige Book says
US Federal Reserve Beige Book shows economic activity and employment remain steady, but rising energy prices driven by the Iran conflict are creating uncertainty. Businesses are delaying investment and hiring decisions, while inflation pressures persist due to higher fuel and input costs, even as wage growth remains muted overall.

Social Security COLA 2027 prediction: 2.8% increase likely as inflation hits 2-year high, retirees still struggle
Social Security COLA for 2027 may be around 2.8% as inflation rises again. Higher oil prices are making daily things expensive, which affects retirees the most. Even if benefits increase, it may not be enough to cover basic needs. Many people on fixed income could still struggle as living costs keep going up slowly.

These mid-cap stocks with ‘Strong Buy’ & ‘Buy’ recos can rally over 25%, according to analysts
What is evident in the last few trading sessions is how the street is treating Q4 earnings numbers. If a company delivers in terms of numbers, the street has money flowing into that stock. So, clearly, from a blanket bearish phase we have moved into stock-selective mode. ET Screener, powered by Refinitiv’s Stock Report Plus, lists quality stocks with high upside potential over the next 12 months, and having an average recommendation rating of “Buy” or "Strong Buy". This predefined screener is only available to ET Prime users.

UN development chief says $6 billion investment could save 32 million people from war-induced poverty
A $6 billion investment in targeted cash payments or energy subsidies could prevent 32 million people from falling into poverty due to war-driven energy price hikes, according to the UN Development Program. This intervention, alongside ending the conflict and resuming trade, is crucial to reversing development setbacks and avoiding a larger economic crisis.

Kharif season faces "double whammy" from El Nino risk and Gulf tensions: Experts
India's upcoming Kharif season faces a double challenge. A likely weak monsoon due to El Nino and ongoing Gulf tensions threaten farm output. Experts warn of rising food prices and reduced rural demand. While government measures may offer some relief, the situation remains uncertain. The monsoon's progress and easing of supply disruptions will be key.

Indian agricultural sector under threat by trifecta of below-Normal Monsoon, El Nino, and West Asia war: ICRA
India's agriculture sector may face a challenging year ahead amid concerns over weak monsoon, possible El Nino conditions, and fertiliser supply risks linked to the West Asia conflict, according to a report by ICRA.

Iran war impact: Essential drugs may cost up to 5% more, for now
The immediate net consumer impact could be 3-5% higher prices, or roughly similar to what consumers paid before the late-September cuts in GST rates. The industry expects the price increase to be in place for 3-4 months, with a rollback option once input costs stabilise.

Rahul backs Rs 20K wage demand; Left flags low wages
Indian National Congress and Left parties have backed a workers’ protest in Noida demanding higher minimum wages and better conditions, citing rising fuel prices and living costs due to the West Asia conflict. Rahul Gandhi said the demands are justified, while trade unions urged authorities to address workers’ grievances through dialogue.

How a US blockade near the Strait of Hormuz could work and the impact ahead for the global economy
A United States blockade of Iranian ports is set to disrupt global oil prices. This move raises concerns about international law and its effectiveness in pressuring Iran. Experts warn of significant challenges in enforcing the blockade. The restrictions could impact the flow of essential goods, leading to higher prices for consumers worldwide.

India's global Ammonia tender likely ahead to secure fertilizer production
India plans a global tender for ammonia, a key fertilizer ingredient. This move aims to secure vital raw material for urea and other fertilizers. The country needs to import a significant portion of its annual ammonia requirements. This comes as global supply chains face disruptions. The tender will bolster fertilizer reserves ahead of the crucial June planting season.

Dual risks of monsoon deficit and rising input costs threaten India's rural economy in 2026: Report
India's rural economy faces a dual threat in 2026 from a potential below-normal monsoon and rising input costs due to the US-Iran conflict. This combination could significantly impact agricultural output, farmer incomes, and rural demand, potentially leading to increased food inflation and straining government finances.

Buy, Sell or Hold: Morgan Stanley resumes coverage on UPL; Emkay Global initiates coverage on D-Mart
Brokerages are selectively positive on the market. Goldman Sachs recommends Solar Industries with a buy rating. Morgan Stanley resumes coverage on UPL with an equal weight rating. Emkay Global initiates coverage on Avenue Supermarts with a sell rating. Structural growth themes remain strong, but companies are being differentiated by pricing power and growth visibility.

Fuel shortages from Iran war threaten Asia’s biggest food staple
Iran War: Farmers across Southeast Asia face a crisis as missiles flew in th Middle East. Soaring fuel and fertilizer prices, driven by the Middle East conflict, are forcing many to abandon their rice fields. This situation threatens food supplies as planting for the next season becomes unaffordable.

Most People Toss This Kitchen Scrap But Its Plant Gold That Can Boost Growth Fast
Banana peels, once discarded as waste, are now recognized as a potent source of nutrients for plant growth. Research highlights their rich potassium and magnesium content, offering a slow-release alternative to synthetic fertilizers. This organic approach not only enhances plant health and resilience but also contributes to a more sustainable gardening practice by reducing waste.

DIY Fertilizer: The Kitchen Ingredient That Makes Plants Explode With Life
Gardeners across the United States are discovering kitchen waste benefits plants. Science shows composting these materials recycles nutrients and improves soil. Raw food scraps can cause problems. Composting transforms waste into a stable, nutrient-rich substance. This process enhances soil structure and water retention. Banana peels, eggshells, and coffee grounds offer nutrients when composted properly.

Centre in talks with Assam Petrochemicals, others to secure methanol supply for pharma amid West Asia disruptions
India is working to secure methanol for its pharmaceutical sector. Global supply chains are facing disruptions due to the West Asia crisis. Discussions are underway with Assam Petrochemicals and GNFC to ensure adequate methanol availability. Efforts are also focused on logistics and supply chains.

Cabinet clears Rs 41,534 crore fertiliser subsidy for kharif 2026
The Union cabinet has approved nutrient-based subsidy rates for phosphatic and potassic fertilisers for the upcoming kharif 2026 season. An allocation of Rs 41,534 crore has been made to support farmers. This move aims to insulate farmers from global price volatility and ensure adequate fertiliser availability. The government is committed to maintaining a steady supply of fertilisers at reasonable prices.

Cabinet approves Rs 41,534 cr P&K fertilisers subsidy for kharif 2026 season
In a strategic move to enhance agricultural output, the government has rolled out a substantial subsidy of Rs 41,534 crore aimed at supporting Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers. Set for the 2025-26 kharif season, this investment represents a promising 12 percent increase from last year.

India raises gas supply for fertilizer firms as imports improve
India has boosted natural gas allocation to urea plants to 90% of average consumption, up from 70-75%, as supply improves following Middle East crisis disruptions. This decision, based on inventory and scheduled LNG arrivals, aims to support the upcoming monsoon planting season.
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