DATA ANALYTICS
HSBC India arm leases 1.2 lakh sq ft office space in Bengaluru
HSBC's India division has secured a long-term sub-lease for more than 120,000 square feet of office space. This transaction is located in the commercial tower Ecospace Campus 1C on Outer Ring Road, Bengaluru. The lease includes a financial commitment of approximately Rs 191.84 crore over an initial five years. Following the lease terms, there is an option for a five-year extension at the same rate.
MobiKwik shares jump 4% as RBI approves NBFC licence; co targets Rs 5,000 crore loans
MobiKwik shares gained on Friday after the RBI granted its subsidiary a licence to operate as an NBFC, enabling the fintech company to enter direct lending. MobiKwik plans to disburse Rs 5,000 crore in loans over the next three to four years, targeting consumers and MSMEs through secured and unsecured products.
Asia fuel oil benchmarks slump as market prices in potential Iran war de-escalation
Asian fuel oil benchmark prices underwent a steep decline this week, driven by expectations of heightened supplies from the Middle East. The shifting political landscape in the US Congress has ignited hopes for peace talks in the region. Simultaneously, enhanced supply conditions, particularly from UAE fuel oil exports, have emerged. While freight rates have shown some easing, they still exert pressure on cargo movements from Europe to Asia.
Wall Street fear gauge soars and retail traders bolt as markets in tailspin
Retail investors experienced significant losses as they sold over $1 billion in stocks due to rising fears. The Cboe Volatility Index spiked sharply, indicating increased market anxiety among traders and investors. Major stock indexes declined, driven down by fears that a Democratic sweep could hinder AI spending. Options market activity reflected heightened demand for hedges, as retail investor sentiment shifted.
FDA flags persistent data-integrity lapses, insanitary conditions at Indian drug facilities
The US FDA continues to identify serious data integrity issues in Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. During inspections, inspectors found discarded documents related to key manufacturing processes, highlighting compliance concerns. To ensure safe medicines, drugmakers are urged to scrutinize their supply chains and monitor suppliers effectively. Additionally, human errors contributed significantly to production incidents, affecting operations and batch release timelines.
GCCs ramp up hiring for AI, data, cybersecurity professionals; face talent shortage: Report
India's GCCs are directing a greater share of technology recruitment towards specialists who can deploy AI, manage data and secure enterprise systems, according to the India GCC Tech Talent Landscape - Q2 FY27 Report by staffing and workforce solutions provider Quess Corp.
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AI, data, cybersecurity lead tech hiring with 30.3% share in September quarter
In India, the demand for roles in AI, data, and cybersecurity within Global Capability Centers (GCCs) has surged, even amid a slight overall hiring decline. AI and data professional roles saw a 14% increase quarter-on-quarter, while cybersecurity positions grew by 12%. Notably, tier-2 cities like Coimbatore achieved a remarkable 30% growth. By 2030, the GCC workforce in India is projected to reach between 2.7 and 2.8 million.
Cabinet approves VGF plan for grid-scale energy storage with Rs 14,500 crore support
The Union Cabinet has approved a significant ₹14,500 crore funding scheme to develop 92 GWh of energy storage capacity. This initiative supports both hydro pumped storage and battery energy storage systems aimed at accelerating renewable energy. Additionally, a scheme has been approved for processing critical minerals like lithium and nickel to reduce import dependency. The government aims to modernize its statistical system with a ₹4,371.10 crore scheme.
Over half of street vendors may cut UPI acceptance if 0.4% MDR is introduced: ISB study
More than 67% of street vendors in India currently accept UPI payments for transactions. A proposed 0.4% merchant discount rate could lead to reduced acceptance among vendors. Concerns arise particularly for vendor-supplier transactions, as many vendors make payments above ₹2,000. A significant portion of vendors faced additional charges from suppliers and might pass costs onto customers.
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Thursday
Indian markets extended their rally, with Sensex gaining 384 points to 77,301 and Nifty rising 150 points to 23,961, marking two-month highs. Positive sentiment, strong earnings, festive demand and buying across mid- and small-caps supported gains.
Digital recruitment is creating a new cybersecurity risk for employers
Online hiring has made it easier for companies to reach candidates across locations, but it has also exposed recruitment processes to identity fraud, manipulated assessments and misuse of personal information. HR teams are increasingly responsible for protecting the integrity and security of the hiring process.
Fractal Analytics crosses $100 million in quarterly revenue, Q2 profit up 139%
Revenue from operations rose about 20% to Rs 957 crore from Rs 799 crore a year earlier, according to its stock exchange filing. Revenue was up 4.8% from Rs 913 crore in the June quarter.
Investors ready for possible shake-up in Congress as US awaits election results
Investors are closely monitoring upcoming midterm elections, as results may influence asset prices significantly. A potential Democratic victory could lead to increased scrutiny on sectors like AI and data centers. Polls indicate a high probability of Democrats taking control of the House and a competitive Senate race. Analysts predict potential volatility in markets following the election results due to heightened investor anxiety.
Prediction markets face US midterms test as election bets soar
In the race towards the US midterm elections, over $1.48 billion has been wagered through prediction markets such as Kalshi and Polymarket, highlighting their role in shaping political discourse. Experts raise alarms about the potential fallout if market outcomes deviate from real election results, which could undermine credibility. Notably, key Senate contests are intensifying market activity, indicating favorable odds for Democratic gains in Congress.
Quant Mutual Fund reduces exposure to frontline IT stocks as part of profit-booking exercise
Quant Mutual Fund has strategically reduced its exposure to IT stocks and boosted its investments in FMCG sectors. This shift is due to disappointing earnings from key tech companies, leading to a cautious approach towards manufacturing amid ongoing supply chain issues. Nevertheless, the fund expresses confidence in India's investment potential amidst global market instabilities and has also introduced three new index funds for passive investors.
India’s professionals keen to sharpen AI skills, see productivity gains
Nearly 97% of Indian professionals are willing to develop their AI skills, while 88% expect the technology to improve productivity and efficiency, according to Michael Page India’s Candidate Pulse Report 2026, based on a survey of 3,401 professionals across 11 APAC markets, including 2,550 in India.
As HR takes on a larger business role, are organisations recognising the teams driving that change?
The Economic Times HR Excellence Awards 2027 spotlight the transformative nature of HR within organizations, underlining their crucial role in shaping business strategy, fostering talent development, and enhancing employee experiences. With six distinct award categories such as Talent Acquisition and Employee Experience, this initiative serves to honor HR teams that significantly boost organizational performance and drive workforce change.
Better forecasts save lives in cyclones, but India needs stronger defences and faster recovery
India experiences an average of five cyclones annually, with two becoming severe cyclonic storms. The Bay of Bengal generates more cyclones than the Arabian Sea due to its shape and temperature. Improved cyclone response has led to reduced fatalities through timely evacuations and better tracking. However, there is a need for enhanced infrastructure and environmental defenses to decrease destruction.
Value of audit lies in its contribution to improved governance: CAG Sanjay Murthy
CAG K Sanjay Murthy highlighted the value of audit in governance and public financial management during a conference in Viet Nam. He discussed the role of Supreme Audit Institutions in adapting to changing governance environments, which included modernising audit methodologies. Murthy presented on digital transformation in public audit, sharing India's experience with technology in enhancing audit practices.
Who sent $2 bn military equipment to Iran past US blockade? More than 5,000 agencies
Iran has developed a clandestine network involving over 5,000 agencies to import military equipment and evade sanctions. This network functions despite ongoing US naval blockades and sanctions since the war began. Extensive investigations reveal significant transactions and military logistics supporting their activities. The secretive agencies have been linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and elite controlled businesses.
AI firm Kyvex founder Pearl Kapur joins BJP ahead of Punjab elections
Pearl Kapur has joined the Bharatiya Janata Party as the Punjab elections approach. He aims to integrate artificial intelligence and data analytics into the party's digital outreach strategies. This move highlights the increasing importance of digital platforms in modern political campaigns.
AI and data analytics to power next phase of government audits, says CAG
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India aims to enhance audits by adopting advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. This integration will allow for more precise identification of risks and anomalies in public governance. Data-driven audits will improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the auditing process. CAG intends to create a technology-enabled, citizen-centric institution, providing timely and reliable government accounts.
Your HR operations team keeps the business running. Is its impact being recognised?
HR operations experts are essential in boosting effectiveness and enriching the employee journey inside companies. The ET HR Excellence Awards 2027 celebrates teams that have transformed HR workflows and provided valuable insights based on data. This recognition motivates them to capture their accomplishments and receive the praise they truly merit for their impactful contributions.
Snowflake and Databricks CEOs debate growth and AI; reactions follow
Sridhar Ramaswamy of Snowflake voiced concerns on social media questioning Databricks’ impressive 80% growth rate. He sought clarity on crucial aspects like free cash flow, obligations, and adjusted margins. In response, Databricks CEO Ali Ghodsi acknowledged their competitive dynamics while suggesting a collaborative potential. This dialogue sparked varied reactions, underscoring the complexities of financial disclosures. Ramaswamy also advocated for unified regulations on artificial intelligence across various models and entities.
India is addressing Wall Street’s favourite ‘elephant’ in the room to its own advantage
The Indian government has identified 762 potential applications of artificial intelligence across 62 ministries and departments, spanning farming, railway safety, tax compliance, public grievances, customs and healthcare. While some tools are already in use, others remain in pilot or development stages.
US semicon gear giant KLA eyeing India manufacturing
KLA makes advanced inspection tools, metrology systems, process solutions and computational analytics for manufacturing semiconductors and related technologies. The Milpitas, California-headquartered firm has operations spread across 18 regions and reported a revenue of $12.74 billion in CY2025.
Google Cloud showcases AI tools to help Indian SMBs boost productivity, automate operations
The demonstration took place at Cloud Day India 2026 in New Delhi, which was attended by more than 600 business and technology leaders. The event was held under the theme 'Any size. Every scale. AI that works for you'.
India Inc wants AI talent to transform manufacturing space
Manufacturing firms are increasingly focusing on integrating artificial intelligence into their operations for efficiency. Companies such as Honeywell Technologies and RPG Group are actively searching for AI and digital leaders. These leaders are expected to bridge the gap between technological advancement and manufacturing processes. Companies are also searching for talent in overseas markets, particularly among Indian-origin executives.
Regional rural banks to set up cybersecurity centres, develop threat intel
Regional rural banks are set to improve their cyber security through the establishment of cyber security operations centres. They will also develop capabilities for vulnerability assessments and incident response as part of the reform agenda. The Financial Stability and Development Council plans to enhance cyber security measures following previous ransomware attacks. New initiatives will include implementing enterprise data warehouse solutions for better data management and reporting.
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