GLOBAL STANDARDS
Longer Diwali breaks: companies give employees more time to celebrate
Many companies are providing extended breaks for their employees during Diwali to promote well-being and family connections. Embassy Group is giving its employees a nine-day break, emphasizing a people-first culture. CashKaro is offering six days off to help employees recharge after the busy festive season. Myntra plans to recognize employee contributions with two additional holiday days following its sales period.
AI Can Measure How ESG Really Impacts the Bottom Line
Advances in large language models are making rigorous sustainability analysis dramatically faster and cheaper, allowing investors and other stakeholders to connect companies’ disclosed environmental and social risks directly to financialperformance in a matter of hours rather than weeks. Applying a simple methodology to ExxonMobil, the authors used AI to map sustainability-related issues to specific financial statement line items and estimate their impact on earnings and value, demonstrating both the promise and the limitations of AI-assisted analysis. As these capabilities become widely accessible, the competitive advantage long held by ESG ratings agencies, standard setters, and sustainable fund managers may erode, shifting attention from proprietary scores toward transparent assumptions and financial consequences. Human judgment remains essential to validate AI-generated outputs, but the broader trend is clear: sustainability analysis is becoming more democratized, financially grounded, and adaptable, with significant implications for how investors, regulators, and other institutions assess corporate performance and value creation.
Poverty low, expectations high: India’s next challenge is creating jobs and driving reforms
Poverty rates in India have decreased remarkably, with expectations rising for future economic prosperity and growth. Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer and Swachh Bharat Mission have significantly improved living conditions. However, while the government has driven welfare improvements, job creation remains the role of entrepreneurs.
USDA to launch AI tool to check crop production data after errors
After the USDA discovered errors in its corn data from September, officials determined the AI tool would have flagged the problem and decided to use it on the crop production report due on November 10, USDA Under Secretary Scott Hutchins said in an interview.
Investors in other markets would be envious of India multiples: Rich Handler, chief executive of Jefferies
Jefferies CEO Rich Handler believes Indian equities remain reasonably valued despite the market correction and says easing long-term capital gains taxes could attract foreign investors. He sees opportunities in India's AI and data centre sectors, argues that global capital outflows reflect external pressures, and believes concerns about an AI bubble warrant a healthy pause rather than alarm.
Lithuania changes residence permit rules, creating fresh hurdles for Indian workers and students
In a move to tighten immigration control, Lithuania has established new residence permit rules that pose challenges for foreign nationals, especially from India. This shift affects Indian workers and students looking for work or study opportunities within the country. Particular visa types will now encounter more scrutiny, necessitating that employers assess the eligibility of candidates accurately.
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China's rising yuan squeezes exporters, raises concerns over jobs and growth
China's strengthening yuan is squeezing exporters' profit margins, raising concerns over job losses, weaker exports and slower economic growth. Beijing faces a policy dilemma as international pressure to let the currency appreciate clashes with domestic manufacturers' need for a competitive exchange rate.
Japan’s SuMiTB makes first Indian realty fund investment with HDFC Capital
Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank has made its first investment in an Indian real estate fund. This investment is in HDFC Capital Development of Real Estate Affordable and Mid-Income Fund. The H-DREAM Fund has raised over $400 million in secured investor commitments. This fund targets residential projects within affordable housing while promoting green building standards. The investment reflects the strengthening economic relationship between India and Japan in the real estate sector.
Tax reporting lapses could risk India's sovereign rating, trigger withholding tax penalties: Income Tax Principal DG Debjyoti Das
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the 'Summit on Global Financial Compliance (FATCA & CRS)' in Mumbai, Debjyoti Das, Principal Director General of Income Tax (Intelligence & Criminal Investigation), highlighted the growing risks associated with non-compliance in cross-border financial reporting.
India’s solar components market to more than double to $7.8 billion by March 2028: CEEW
India's market for solar module components is projected to exceed $7.8 billion by March 2028. This growth is primarily driven by increased domestic manufacturing capacity and rising demand. Planned expansions of production facilities are crucial for meeting anticipated requirements. Additionally, ensuring consistent quality and reliable supply chains will enhance competitiveness against imports. The study emphasizes the importance of clear standards and regulations for the solar components industry.
Crazy economics gets a stop button
After the US midterm elections, stock futures show a positive reaction despite ongoing economic uncertainties. Trump's legislative agenda faces gridlock, impacting his trade and immigration policies significantly. The focus will shift to regulating AI, potentially stalling infrastructure growth in the US economy. India's position in trade negotiations may improve due to Trump's need for success overseas.
India says PepsiCo, Monster marketed with 'energy drink' label to dupe consumers
India's food regulator FSSAI has accused PepsiCo and Monster Beverage of misleading consumers by marketing high-caffeine products as energy drinks, defending its ban on the label. The dispute has escalated into a legal battle, with the regulator citing public health risks linked to caffeine, sugar and taurine content.
Diwali 2026: Will Sensex, Nifty reclaim their peaks or scale new highs? Analysts map the road ahead
Market analysts are tentatively optimistic about Indian equity markets seeing a resurgence in the next financial year. Expectations suggest that both the Sensex and Nifty may rise to their past peak levels by Diwali 2027, driven by improving corporate profitability. While favorable valuations and steady domestic investments bolster this outlook, global uncertainties like inflation, interest rates, and oil prices could pose challenges.
Wockhardt seeks 14-year data shield for India-made drugs
Mumbai-based Wockhardt has struck success in its innovative research on a range of antibiotic drugs, bridging a global pipeline gap for difficult-to-treat infections. In May this year, the company secured approvals from Indian and US drug regulators for a breakthrough drug, Zaynich (cefepime + zidebactam), to treat complicated urinary tract infection, including acute pyelonephritis or severe kidney infections. Wockhardt has showcased six drugs to treat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
India needs three national carriers to compete globally, says Adani Airports CEO
Adani Airports CEO Arun Bansal emphasized the need for three national carriers to cater to India's aviation demands. He stated that strengthening domestic airlines is crucial before embracing more international competition. Passenger traffic is expected to rise, requiring robust airline ecosystems and regulatory changes. Adani Airports plans to invest significantly in infrastructure to support this growth. The company aims to expand its capacity and participate in upcoming airport privatization initiatives.
Should my OCI son continue his Indian health insurance policy or take a new one?
ET Wealth Reader's Query: My son recently became an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI). Earlier, he had insurance coverage in India. Should he continue that or take a new one in India?
Harley-Davidson Sprint 440 unveiled at EICMA 2026, that looks like Royal Enfield 350: Check engine, features, specifications and colours
Harley-Davidson has unveiled the Sprint 440 at EICMA 2026, introducing a new entry-level motorcycle developed with Hero MotoCorp. The 440cc model produces 27 hp and 38 Nm of torque and features a TFT display, dual-channel ABS and a 671 mm seat height. Global market launches are scheduled to begin in 2027.
Airtel's Gopal Vittal re-elected GSMA chair until 2028
Gopal Vittal has secured re-election as chair of the GSMA Board for the 2027-28 term, marking a decade of impactful service. With a focus on industry trust and security, he aims to shield customers and the mobile ecosystem from threats and scams. The board has also appointed Margherita Della Valle and Ralph Mupita as co-deputy chairs, highlighting a strong leadership team dedicated to enhancing global connectivity.
HSBC to open Hong Kong AI Institute following Singapore launch
The AI unit will work with Hong Kong University of Science and Technology as its anchor academic partner, Elhedery said, though he did not disclose headcount details.
Sebi to delist penny stocks: Market regulator plans AI-based surveillance of such firms
The Securities and Exchange Board of India plans to delist companies that have no economic activity. This move aims to protect investors, especially those investing in penny stocks. The regulator highlights the potential dangers posed by such inactive companies in the market. Additionally, Sebi intends to announce compliance requirements for foreign institutional investors soon.
Sebi to release FII compliance consultation paper within weeks, says chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey
Sebi is likely to release a consultation paper on foreign investor compliance requirements within weeks, chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey said. The proposed document will explore aligning Indian norms with global standards amid heavy FII outflows. The regulator is also planning a capacity-building network to strengthen independent directors’ effectiveness.
Signature Global awards Rs 496 crore construction contract for Tonino Lamborghini Residences
Signature Global has awarded a significant construction contract to B.L. Kashyap & Sons Limited for its luxury residential project. The contract, valued at approximately Rs 496 crore, is for the Tonino Lamborghini Residences in Gurugram. This project involves constructing multiple residential towers, commercial buildings, and essential infrastructure over a period of 5 to 6 years.
Signature Global awards Rs 496 crore construction contract for Tonino Lamborghini residences
Signature Global awarded a construction contract worth Rs 496 crore to B L Kashyap & Sons for a luxury project. This project, named 'Tonino Lamborghini Residences', will be located in Gurugram's Sector 71 and spans 12.40 acres. It consists of 812 premium flats and aims for completion in 5 to 6 years. Earlier, Signature Global partnered with Tonino Lamborghini to invest nearly Rs 2,900 crore for this housing project.
Is India prepared to tackle 369 million cybersecurity incidents and AI challenges ahead?
India experienced a notable increase in cybersecurity incidents which has raised concerns over its infrastructure and talent shortages. The adoption of AI is rising, yet the country lags behind others in global rankings. Challenges related to AI, such as data protection and algorithmic liability, are becoming more complex. To address these issues, comprehensive regulatory frameworks and national legislation are urgently needed.
Govt sets up banking committee under Suresh N Patel to chart reforms for Viksit Bharat
The government on Friday constituted a High Level Committee on Banking for Viksit Bharat, appointing former Central Vigilance Commissioner Suresh N Patel as its chairman. RBI Deputy Governor Shirish Chandra Murmu, former Indian Bank MD and CEO Padmaja Chunduru and former RBI Deputy Governor N S Vishwanathan are among its members.
Sebi to review FPI rules, align with global norms
The Securities and Exchange Board of India is set to release a consultation paper aimed at refining compliance requirements for foreign portfolio investors. Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey highlighted the progress in the onboarding of international funds while pointing out the heavy compliance burden in India. Sebi is also considering the possibility of self-listing for stock exchanges despite the challenges that may arise.
Sebi to review FPI compliance norms, issue consultation paper to align with global standards
Sebi Chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey stated they will review compliance requirements for foreign portfolio investors in India. A consultation paper will seek feedback on aligning these norms with global standards while ensuring investor protection. This initiative aims to enhance foreign investor participation in domestic markets and streamline access procedures. Additionally, Pandey emphasized the significance of domestic savings along with international capital to support market development.
India hosts CIML meet for first time; Khare pushes for globally harmonised measurement norms
India is hosting the 61st meeting of the International Committee of Legal Metrology, which focuses on global measurement standards. Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare highlighted the importance of accurate measurements for fair trade and consumer confidence.
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