FUEL FERTILISER COSTS
The war bump is a false victory for S&P 500 profits
The commentary argues that strong S&P 500 earnings growth is narrowly concentrated in AI-linked companies and sectors benefiting from the Iran war, including energy, defence and materials. It warns that higher fuel prices, inflation and borrowing costs could weaken consumer demand, while heavy dependence on the AI boom leaves the market vulnerable if investment returns disappoint.
'War anywhere threatens peace everywhere': EAM Jaishankar calls for global cooperation on UN Day
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized that conflicts like those in Ukraine and West Asia impact global peace. He highlighted the interconnected nature of the world due to globalization, which affects societies far removed from the conflicts. He expressed the need for the Global North to acknowledge shared crises faced by the Global South regarding finance, fuel, food, and fertilizers.
Piyush Goyal roasts Europe on climate change: Watch Union Minister’s ‘epic’ reply to EU in Germany that’s going viral
Watch Piyush Goyal questioning European countries over climate finance commitments at the Berlin Global Dialogue in Germany. The Union Commerce Minister highlighted historical carbon emissions, India's development needs and the $100 billion climate finance pledge while raising concerns about the EU's carbon border tax.
Putin agrees to resume trilateral talks on Ukraine war with Kyiv and Washington, Kremlin says
Vladimir Putin has agreed to resume negotiations with Washington and Kyiv regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The trilateral talks will focus on establishing a post-war security system for both countries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy insists on a leaders' summit to address ongoing hostilities. Recent discussions have yielded minimal progress amid continued military confrontations in Ukraine. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff noted a slight momentum in peace efforts following multiple high-level meetings.
From $8 billion in farm aid to $5,000 checks and Medicare payments: What Trump’s latest financial promises mean for Americans ahead of the midterm elections
US President Donald Trump has proposed an $8 billion relief programme for farmers struggling with diesel costs. This financial support aims to assist producers during the 2026 harvest season amidst rising production expenses. Additionally, he suggested sending $5,000 checks to adult citizens if Republicans maintain congressional control. Meanwhile, a one-time payment to Medicare beneficiaries has also been announced separately.
Beyond Oil: How bioenergy investments can rebalance India-Russia trade
Russia now exports more than $60 billion worth of goods annually to India, primarily crude oil, petroleum products, coal, and fertilisers.
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Wholesale inflation hits series high of 11.4% in September as fuel, food prices surge
India's wholesale inflation reached 11.4% in September, significantly increasing from 9.9% in August. Rising prices of fuel, food, and manufactured goods contributed to this surge. Food inflation climbed to 8.7%, marking a 23-month high. Retail inflation also saw an increase, rising to 5.54% year-on-year in September. Economists expect inflation to remain elevated in the coming months due to ongoing global commodity pressures.
WPI inflation quickens to 11.39% in September from 9.9% in August
Wholesale prices in India rose significantly to 11.39% in September, driven by rising fuel and food costs. Retail inflation also increased to 5.54%, attributed largely to higher vegetable prices. Concerns remain over food inflation maintaining elevated levels due to factors like uneven monsoon rainfall and El Nino risks. Increased global commodity prices are further affecting food production costs and transportation expenses.
India shields city gas users as Hormuz crisis threatens South Asia's LNG demand
India has shielded city gas supplies from Middle East LNG disruptions by cutting deliveries to fertiliser plants, refineries and industrial users, helping it weather the crisis better than Pakistan and Bangladesh, Wood Mackenzie said. Even so, India has faced sharply higher LNG prices and an estimated 1.5 million-tonne reduction in gas demand, as the regional supply shock reverses earlier expectations for South Asian LNG growth.
Inflation could hit 7%, forcing RBI to hike rates by 150 bps further: Report
India's inflation is projected to reach 6-7% due to increasing price pressures and consumer expectations. The Reserve Bank of India has acknowledged risks stemming from rising input costs and resilient domestic demand. Recent trends show that household inflation expectations are significantly higher than headline inflation rates. The RBI has raised its GDP growth projection while revising inflation forecasts upwards to 6% for the upcoming quarter.
Fuel, fertiliser costs strain American farmers' support for Republicans in midterms
Farmers in the Midwest United States face surging diesel and fertiliser costs which are outpacing their incomes. The sector has seen diesel prices climb by 67 percent while fertiliser prices, at times, have seen steep price jumps. This comes amid trade along the Strait of Hormuz being disrupted by the US' conflict with Iran. Trade wars with China and Canada has also worsened the US agricultural market, raising doubts over their continued support for the Republican Party.
India navigating multipolar 'age of flux', says Jaishankar; talks on with Russia, Ukraine for safe Black Sea passage
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirmed the importance of the US as a primary strategic partner for India. He emphasized India's nuanced approach to relationships with various nations including China and Russia. Jaishankar also addressed the challenges in securing grain and fuel shipments amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He called for a reform in the United Nations to better represent the Global South.
Double trouble at the dinner table: When will food prices normalise for Indians?
India’s food inflation: Food prices are rising unevenly, impacting household budgets, while inflation is projected to persist in upcoming months. Economists expect food inflation to reach up to 7% in the near future due to various factors. Weather risks, particularly from El Niño, could significantly affect crop yields and consequently food prices. Additionally, global events in West Asia contribute to higher energy and logistic costs.
Fuel, finance shocks already hitting global economy; India better placed but not insulated: Neelkanth Mishra
Higher fuel costs and tighter financial conditions are significantly affecting global demand and capital costs. India is comparatively better positioned than many developed markets, yet it remains vulnerable due to imported energy. The high dependence on crude oil and foreign capital poses risks for India's growth amid global economic pressures. Global bond yields have risen, increasing pressures on mortgage rates and investment costs domestically.
India can emerge as key rice supplier as global production falls 9% and demand rises 14%: IREF
India's rice production is expected to decrease, while global demand is projected to rise significantly. The country possesses sufficient surplus stocks to address international market needs. Other major rice-producing nations are under pressure, which presents opportunities for Indian exporters. Challenges such as rising fuel and fertilizer costs continue to impact the global rice market. This situation could enhance India's status as a key player in the international rice trade.
Triple shock rattles India’s FMCG basket as 68% of categories lose volume
India's FMCG market is experiencing significant challenges as higher costs and rural income pressures affect consumption patterns, NielsenIQ says. FMCG volumes declined by 2% year-on-year in the second quarter, indicating a widespread slowdown. Urban areas showed minimal growth, while rural volumes fell sharply by 5%. Additionally, modern trade and e-commerce are rising rapidly, thus altering shopping habits among consumers.
Suzuki targets 4 million units annual India production by FY30, unveils 10-year technology strategy
Suzuki Motor Corporation will enhance its production capacity in India to 4 million units annually by FY30. The company aims to improve development and manufacturing efficiency significantly by 2030. Suzuki is expanding its manufacturing footprint with new plants and advancing its technology strategy. Additionally, a biogas initiative will promote sustainable resource circulation in local communities. The company is committed to addressing energy and environmental challenges with innovative technology.
ADB raised India’s FY27 growth forecast to 7%
The Asian Development Bank has raised its FY27 India growth forecast to 7% from 6.6%, citing strong public investment and resilience in services and electronics exports. The upgrade follows India’s stronger-than-expected 7.8% GDP growth in the June quarter, supported by investment, consumption, manufacturing and services.
BRICS+ and the fallout from Trump's energy shocks
Global oil markets face instability from ongoing conflicts and disrupted supply routes. Strategic petroleum reserves and reduced Chinese imports initially cushioned the deficit. However, manipulated price indicators and market interventions are now proving unsustainable. This situation threatens to trigger a global recession, impacting India's energy security. India must prioritize long-term energy stability over short-term trade gains.
Manufacturing a bright spot; services presents a mixed bag: Upasna Bhardwaj, Chief Economist, Kotak Mahindra Bank
"Despite the ongoing debate around the new GDP series, real GDP growth remained robust at 7.8% in the first quarter, highlighting the economy’s ability to absorb external shocks."
MDR could push small merchants, price-sensitive consumers back towards cash: GTRI
Effective October 15, UPI payments to merchants (P2M) above Rs 2,000 will attract a 0.4 per cent MDR with an overall cap of Rs 300. Besides, a flat concessional MDR of Rs 5 would be applicable on specific merchant categories such as railways, telecom services, insurance, and fuel for transaction above Rs 2,000.
What the closure of Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline means for oil flows
Saudi Arabia closed a major oil pipeline after a drone attack, raising global energy shortage fears. This closure threatens to remove millions of barrels of oil from the market daily. The war with Iran has already strained energy supplies and increased prices significantly. Consumers worldwide are experiencing higher fuel and energy costs due to these disruptions. Experts warn of further supply shocks and escalating prices impacting households globally.
Natural gas imports rise despite price surge
India's natural gas imports are increasing despite higher prices this fiscal year. Demand is boosted by subsidized fertilizer and growing CNG vehicle sales. Limited alternative fuel supply and falling domestic production also contribute to this trend. Recent surges in spot LNG prices may impact future demand and consumer choices. The fertilizer sector remains the largest driver of these growing import volumes.
Russia, Ukraine agree to not hit energy targets, says Trump
Ukraine and Russia have agreed not to strike each other's energy targets. US President Donald Trump announced this agreement on Monday. He stated the Russia-Ukraine war is the primary cause of rising diesel prices. This comes after recent drone attacks hit energy sites on both sides. Both nations continue long-range strikes on critical infrastructure.
PM Modi keeps saying 'sab changa si' but actually 'sab mehenga si': Congress on WPI inflation data
Wholesale price inflation reached 9.92 percent in August, showing a consistent rise. Food and manufactured items contributed significantly to this ongoing price increase. Real wages have also declined, with rural wages experiencing a substantial drop. This data contradicts Prime Minister Narendra Modi's claims that everything is well. Rising global costs and supply chain issues are impacting Indian prices.
Indian agrochemical firms may benefit from volume recovery, but weak pricing, competition could pressure margins: Report
Global agrochemical markets face ongoing pressure from weak farmer economics and intense competition. Channel inventories have largely returned to normal after remaining elevated during 2024-25. Indian manufacturers may benefit from recovering volumes and patent expiries. However, weak generic pricing and competition will constrain profit margins for these companies. Companies with low-cost manufacturing and differentiated formulations are better positioned for growth.
Ethanol blending: India should consider temporary cut to 15% from 20% target, says ICRIER
India should consider temporarily lowering ethanol blending in petrol to 15% during severe feedstock shortages or sharp food-price pressures, while retaining the 20% target as a long-term goal, an ICRIER paper said. It also recommended greater sugar imports, flexibility in ethanol imports and faster adoption of non-food-based second-generation ethanol.
The next wars may not be about oil or borders: Climate change is turning food, water and farmland into new sources of conflict across the world
Climate change is reshaping global agriculture and resource availability. This shift could increasingly drive future conflicts and instability worldwide. Droughts and extreme weather are reducing food production in vulnerable regions. New farmland gains can also create competition and disputes over ownership. Strong institutions are crucial for managing these resource-driven societal pressures.
India in continuous touch with Ukraine and Russia to held end the conflict: Jaishankar
India remains in continuous contact with both Ukraine and Russia. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar seeks ideas to mitigate the ongoing conflict. He discussed global challenges and the war with Poland's Deputy Prime Minister. India believes endless war must give way to a peaceful resolution. Promoting dialogue and diplomacy is India's strong conviction and action.
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