INDIA FOREIGN POLICY
Boost for green energy projects: Maharashtra govt waives 25 pc land transfer fee
Maharashtra announced a waiver for the 25 per cent transfer fee on land for renewable energy projects. This decision aims to alleviate financial pressure on companies and reduce project costs. Companies must use the land exclusively for renewable energy to qualify for this exemption. If the land is used for other purposes, the exemption will be revoked, and fees will be charged.
From deportations to million-dollar visas: The two sides of Donald Trump's immigration policy and who gets to live in America
Trump's administration has intensified deportations while restricting immigration paths for skilled workers. The Gold Card program offers wealthy individuals a streamlined path to US residency. Meanwhile, the H-1B visa application process has seen a significant drop in registrations. Refugee admissions have decreased dramatically compared to previous years, raising concerns for many migrants. Overall, immigration policies reflect a stark contrast between enforcement and opportunities for affluent applicants.
India-US trade deal enters fine-tuning stage as most talks conclude, says Piyush Goyal
India and the US are refining their bilateral trade agreement after concluding most discussions on the deal. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal indicated significant progress has been made towards finalizing the agreement. Recent talks have involved high-level meetings between officials from both nations, focusing on tariff reductions and trade frameworks. Goyal is currently leading a significant delegation to the Netherlands and Germany to promote bilateral business ties.
Rupee weakens for third session as importers step up dollar bids, foreign outflows bite
The Indian rupee declined for three consecutive trading sessions due to increased dollar buying by importers. Elevated oil prices and foreign outflows have contributed to the weakness in the local currency. Brent crude oil prices have risen significantly, raising concerns over inflation and import costs. Foreign investors have been net sellers of Indian equities, adding to market pressures.
FCNR(B) scheme has bought India 3-5 years, but $170 billion repayment cliff looms: Uday Kotak
Uday Kotak has described India’s $130-billion-plus FCNR(B) mobilisation as a “strong insurance policy” against global shocks, but warned that repayments including interest could reach $160-170 billion over the next three to five years. He said the buffer gives India time to strengthen its economy, but should not substitute for structural reforms, investment in technology and efforts to improve domestic competitiveness.
India-US ties shift to deal-making as Trump's Iran policy looms
India must adapt to a US relationship driven by pragmatic deal-making, rethink its diaspora policy amid anti-immigrant sentiment, and play a bigger role in easing Iran tensions and shaping the global order.
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FPIs withdraw Rs 48,056 cr from equities in Oct so far amid elevated crude oil prices
Foreign investors withdrew significant funds from Indian equities in October amid concerns over inflation and crude oil prices. Despite this, there were signs of moderation in selling with two days of net buying. The overall FPI outflows from equities in 2026 have reached notable levels compared to previous years. Market participants are closely monitoring upcoming macroeconomic developments including US GDP data.
Nifty bears tighten grip as crude, geopolitical risks, FII outflows mount: 5 factors to decide D-Street’s fate next week
Indian stock markets faced a setback as crude oil prices soared, triggered by increasing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Despite some defensive buying from domestic institutions, foreign investors pulled back. The forthcoming US Federal Reserve meeting is poised to impact global market moods. Investors will be keenly watching industrial production metrics and second-quarter earnings for insights on corporate health, as macroeconomic stability remains crucial for market trends.
FIIs dump Indian stocks for 10th straight week as markets slide: Is the worst over or more pain ahead?
The Nifty 50 declined in all four sessions of the holiday-shortened week, hitting an intraweek low of 22,372 on Friday before closing 2.4% lower at 22,600. The Bank Nifty fell 2.8%, while the Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap 100 plunged 5.6% and 7.3%, respectively, as selling pressure intensified beyond frontline stocks.
Strong macro fundamentals, policy interventions to anchor eco against global headwinds: RBI bulletin
Strong macroeconomic fundamentals continue to support the Indian economy against global inflation and trade tensions. Recent geopolitical frictions have resulted in increased prices and supply chain issues, leading to policy changes. Currency fluctuations were observed, but measures by the Reserve Bank helped stabilize the rupee recently. Foreign Direct Investment remains robust, driven by significant inflows from major sources like the US and Singapore.
English Court of Appeal dismisses India's appeal in dispute with UAE-based RAKIA
The English Court of Appeal has dismissed India's challenge to an arbitral tribunal's jurisdiction over a dispute brought by Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority under the India-UAE Bilateral Investment Treaty. The dispute concerns the cancellation of a bauxite supply agreement for an Andhra Pradesh aluminium project involving RAKIA and the Penna Group.
Driving licence holders, take note: New rules may change your card details, documents needed & online services; check what the govt proposes
Driving licence news: The government has proposed major changes to India's driving licence rules, including colour-coded licences for Indian and foreign nationals, a higher safe-driving assessment pass mark of 75% and mandatory details such as blood group and emergency contact information. The draft also proposes stricter document verification, possible fee waivers for certain online services using Aadhaar authentication and fixed timelines for processing applications to update licence details. Here is what could change if the proposals are approved.
Indian Bank raises deposit rates by 15 basis points
Indian Bank managing director Binod Kumar had said earlier that the bank does not have surplus liquidity as it shed Rs 10,000 crore of bulk deposits and slowed term deposits mobilisation during the second quarter while it raised $2.3 billion (about Rs 21,000 crore) of foreign currency non-resident-bank (FCNR-B) deposits using the regulatory window.
India's interest rate gap with G7 in focus as RBI weighs inflation risks: Report
India's monetary policy is now shaped by the interest rate gap with major developed economies and rising inflation. The Reserve Bank of India is concerned about inflation risks and input cost increases. Recent GDP growth figures indicate resilience supported by strong private consumption and exports. YES Bank predicts a cumulative rate hike of 50 basis points by the RBI.
Tax matters, as does capital: Is it time for India to reconsider its LTCG tax policy on listed equities amid rising global competition?
Debate on long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax and securities transaction tax (STT) has gained momentum, with the government recognizing its significance. With foreign portfolio investors withdrawing substantial funds from Indian equities, the impact of tax regimes on investment behavior and market liquidity warrants deeper analysis. Reforms are necessary to enhance India's competitiveness in attracting global capital.
Piyush Goyal to explore trade, investment avenues in Germany & Netherlands
Commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal is set to visit Germany and the Netherlands for trade engagements. He will participate in the Berlin Global Dialogue and meet various government officials in Germany. The focus will be on technological cooperation, clean technology, and the India-EU FTA negotiations. In the Netherlands, Goyal will hold ministerial meetings to explore expanded trade channels and green transition initiatives.
Jio Platforms' IPO-linked inflows boost rupee; elevated oil prices spur caution
The Indian rupee experienced a notable increase as Jio Platforms' IPO attracted significant foreign investments. Despite this strength, rising oil prices raised concerns among traders about the rupee's sustainability. The rupee closed at 94.46 against the dollar, with earlier gains trimmed by higher Brent crude oil prices. Analysts suggest that the upcoming RBI monetary policy might influence future exchange rates.
Pakistan ties can help US 'discourage' things India is worried about: Marco Rubio
Marco Rubio confirmed the US commitment to condemning global terrorism while explaining relations with Pakistan. He noted the importance of maintaining diplomatic ties due to Pakistan's nuclear arsenal and strategic location. Rubio stated that communication with Pakistan could help mitigate Indian security concerns. He acknowledged the challenges of balancing such diplomatic relationships while managing US foreign policy. Ongoing engagement with countries like Pakistan remains essential to American international strategy.
Marco Rubio to to commence three-day visit to India, calls India key ally, says its Russian energy purchases need to be understood
Marco Rubio's visit to Mumbai includes discussions on the pending US-India trade deal and bilateral relations. He will meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to address economic cooperation and regional stability. After paying tribute to terror victims, he will attend the Freedom 250 Reception celebrating diplomatic ties between the nations. Following Mumbai, Rubio will travel to Jamnagar to engage further in energy discussions.
INDIA BONDS-India bonds give up day's gains as oil price spike adds to rate hike fears
Indian government bonds ended lower as inflation concerns increased due to rising crude oil prices. The benchmark 10-year bond yield has been rising for nine consecutive weeks, causing worries about further rate hikes. Economists predict consumer inflation might exceed the upper tolerance band of the Reserve Bank of India. Additionally, the Reserve Bank has taken measures to curb currency speculation and stabilize the financial market.
Trump waives Russia sanctions, easing India’s energy concerns as US trade deal nears
US President Donald Trump waived key Russian sanctions which may enhance trade relations with India. This decision is expected to provide negotiating space for a potential trade deal. India, one of the largest importers of Russian oil, faces challenges due to declining imports. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting India to discuss cooperation on this matter. The waiver could help India secure more favorable tariffs while stabilizing energy policies.
Rupee ends flat as stock slump, importer hedging erodes bounce
The Indian rupee held steady even as it initially surged, influenced by rising dollar demand from importers. However, the local stock markets, particularly the Nifty 50, suffered a decline of more than 1% due to underwhelming results in the technology and financial sectors. Meanwhile, Brent crude oil prices dipped about 2% after the US administration's sanction waivers.
US very close to finalising trade deal with India, says Marco Rubio
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday that Washington is close to finalising a trade deal with India. He said the US considers various factors, including ongoing trade negotiations, while making decisions on national security waivers related to Russian oil and gas sanctions.
Correcting rupee against fundamentals ultimately futile, says RBI's ex-guv Subbarao
D Subbarao advocates for allowing the rupee to find its level based on economic fundamentals. He criticizes costly short-term measures that do not address structural issues behind capital outflows. The rupee's recent recovery followed the Reserve Bank of India's measures to reduce dollar demand. Subbarao highlights the importance of tax reforms to attract foreign investment in India.
Global investors against use of judicial anti-avoidance rule by tax officials
International investors have raised concerns regarding the Indian Income-tax authorities' invocation of the judicial anti-avoidance rule. At a recent meeting, investors communicated their issues with the Central Board of Direct Taxes on this matter. The use of JAAR to deny relief on grandfathered shares contradicts prior regulations established by the CBDT. The standing of both GAAR and JAAR remains complex due to Supreme Court rulings.
India needs policy credibility and continuity to sustain FDI as strong growth alone is not enough, says KIEP expert
India needs to maintain policy credibility and continuity to sustain foreign investment inflows, as strong economic growth alone may not be enough to reassure global investors about the country's long-term business environment, highlighted Kyunghoon Kim, Head of the India and South Asia Team at the Korea Institute for International Economic Policy (KIEP).
Trump’s super intelligence diplomat: Marco Rubio
Trump changed AI to SI. Now he has created a new breed of SI diplomacy.
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