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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.
Workout after work: India Inc flexes its fitness muscle
Employers in India are enhancing workplace fitness programs to promote well-being and active lifestyles among employees. Companies like Procter & Gamble and InMobi now offer gym facilities and wellness initiatives. The demand for fitness programs is rising among mid-sized businesses and startups, providing greater access to wellness resources.
Climate finance, trade likely to be on COP31 table
COP31, scheduled to occur in Antalya from November 9-20, will address significant climate finance and trade issues. Discussions include the funding developed countries owe to developing nations for climate change adaptation. The African Group aims to formalize financial support strategies and assess funding needs for climate initiatives. Additionally, proposals regarding the impact of climate-related trade measures on developing countries have been put forward.
Coca-Cola India’s bottling arm HCCH files DRHP for IPO
Hindustan Coca-Cola Holdings Limited has submitted its Draft Red Herring Prospectus to SEBI for an IPO. This IPO will involve an Offer for Sale of nearly one billion equity shares by the promoter. Coca-Cola India aims to enhance its asset-light operating model while focusing on brand development and digitization. The company has shown impressive revenue growth in its recent financial performance.
Trump discusses West Asia de-escalation with Qatar's emir; at least 30 killed in airstrikes in Yemen
US President Trump spoke with Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim about reducing tensions in West Asia. They focused on Qatar's mediation efforts to achieve security and stability in the region. In Yemen, airstrikes on a market resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people amidst ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Italy's Foreign Ministry is seeking the release of detained Italians in the West Bank.
Rubio to visit France on first post-midterm foreign trip to face questions on Trump policies
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the G7 foreign ministers meeting in France this weekend. This trip follows significant Republican losses in the midterm elections, raising questions about Trump's international policies. Rubio is expected to address various global issues, including the Iran and Russia-Ukraine conflicts. The meeting aims to cover topics like energy security and support for Ukraine amidst ongoing challenges.
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India may lower shipbuilding subsidy localisation threshold to 20% to attract foreign investors
The government is considering lowering the minimum domestic-content threshold for shipbuilding incentives from 30% to 20%, with a full subsidy payout linked to 40% localisation. The proposed relaxation, conditional on firm investment milestones, could benefit South Korea's HD Hyundai, which plans a $4 billion greenfield shipyard in Tamil Nadu.
They wear black, hide their faces and vanish into crowds: The mysterious movement from the 1980s unsettling Europe
Masked protesters known as the Black Bloc utilize a collective identity to evade police identification during demonstrations. This tactic has escalated violence and conflicts during protests across various European countries. Authorities struggle to address this phenomenon due to the absence of a formal organizational structure. While some view these methods as legitimate political expression, others believe they undermine peaceful movements.
DLF to invest Rs 3,750 crore for majority stake in JV with Everstone for IREO assets
DLF plans to invest Rs 3,750 crore to obtain a majority stake in a partnership with EverstoneGroup. The joint venture will focus on IREO Private Limited and other entities within the IREO group in India. It aims to acquire at least a 20% stake in the IREO India companies to secure governance rights. This transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to conclude by 2027.
Air India starts using Iraq airspace for New York, Newark direct flights; likely to see 10% fuel savings
Air India has resumed non-stop flights to New York and Newark using Iraqi airspace, cutting journey times by around four hours to 16 hours and saving nearly 10% in fuel costs. The revised routes also offer greater flexibility in crew deployment and help ease the impact of prolonged airspace restrictions.
Activists breach Microsoft data centre construction site as protests spread in Europe
Activist groups have announced actions in 16 countries on Friday and Saturday, according to the "Stop Dirty Data Centres" coalition, which is rallying environmental groups and digital rights campaigns behind calls to pause large-scale construction.
Mass protests sweep France as huge crowds demand higher wages, back students' demands
France witnessed a wave of protests advocating for increased wages and student rights, drawing attention from both unions and political leaders. The Interior Ministry estimates around 600,000 participants, while unions claim nearly 1.6 million people took part in these demonstrations. Disruptions in schools and public transport were rampant, as blockades and strikes organized by students and workers unfolded.
ECI restores DEC-level oversight of IT wing after 2 ECs raise concerns
The Election Commission of India issued a new work allocation order restoring oversight of the IT division. This change followed objections from two Election Commissioners regarding a prior order issued by senior Deputy Election Commissioner Maneesh Garg. Both Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi wrote to cabinet secretary TV Somanathan concerning Garg's unapproved directive.
India, Nepal reaffirm commitment to all-round enhancement of partnership as FS Misri meets PM Shah
India and Nepal have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Prime Minister Balendra Shah in Kathmandu ahead of his expected visit to Delhi later this month. Discussions covered trade, energy, connectivity, sports and new areas of cooperation, including AI and digital connectivity.
Hundreds of thousands strike across France for higher wages and to back students
The Paris march began peacefully on Thursday afternoon at Place de la Republique. The large crowd included many students carrying signs reading, "Inequalities seriously jeopardize our future" and "We can't spend our whole lives just trying to make a living." They were joined by workers and retirees demanding higher wages and pensions.
Tata Sons Chairman Chandrasekaran meets Italian PM Meloni after Iveco acquisition
Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently discussed the acquisition of Iveco Group. This meeting focused on the strategic industrial ties between Italy and India, enhancing their collaboration. The acquisition allows Tata Motors to become a significant player in the commercial vehicle market. Chandrasekaran expressed gratitude for the support received from the Italian government during the acquisition process.
Arab parties extend a hand to try and topple Netanyahu, but challenges remain
Arab lawmaker Ahmad Tibi mentioned the Joint List's potential partnership with Jewish parties to oust Netanyahu. This collaboration could alter decades of Israeli political traditions and dynamics. The Joint List seeks to influence outgoing government decisions while remaining outside its administration. Netanyahu's opponents face a dilemma regarding the inclusion of Arab parties due to historical mistrust.
Sebi sets up working group to review Innovators Growth Platform framework
SEBI has formed a working group to review Innovators Growth Platform regulations and improve capital access for startups. The panel will examine listing eligibility, fundraising, investor participation, disclosures and migration to mainboards while safeguarding investor interests.
From enterprises to SMBs: How Flashfox AI plans to change the hiring game
GetWork’s AI hiring business, now spun off as Flashfox AI, is targeting 500 enterprise clients in the next 24 months as it expands into Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
India-EU FTA to simplify and reinforce corporate cooperation, says Swedish Ambassador Petra Menander
The proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will simplify and reinforce bilateral corporate collaboration, said Sweden's Ambassador to India Petra Menander, pointing to expanded opportunities for technology transfers and joint industrial initiatives.
Vietnam proposes pact with India to protect classified information
Vietnam has proposed an agreement with India to exchange and protect classified information, while both countries have agreed to strengthen real-time sharing of strategic intelligence. The proposals were discussed during National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s meetings with Vietnamese leaders in Hanoi.
Tata-Iveco combine eyes significant growth in volumes, revenues over next 5 years: Chandrasekaran
Tata Motors and Iveco Group expect significant growth in vehicle volumes, revenues and margins over the next five years following their combination, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran said. The combined entity will have annual revenues of around $24 billion, operations in over 130 countries and a portfolio spanning trucks, buses and specialised vehicles.
Adani Group to seek $1.5 billion for data center financing
Adani Group, led by Gautam Adani, is negotiating a $1.5 billion loan to finance its data center expansion. The joint venture AdaniConneX with EdgeConneX is involved in discussions with various lenders. Plans include investing around $100 billion in digital infrastructure by 2035, enhancing their energy business. Meanwhile, Reliance conglomerate is also investing significantly in artificial intelligence infrastructure.
TVS-owned Norton unveils 450 cc urban bike to win a new generation of riders
Norton Motorcycles has announced a new 450 cc urban motorcycle set for launch in 2027. The motorcycle features a liquid-cooled engine and advanced connectivity options. It follows the introduction of four new-generation motorcycles presented at EICMA 2025. Additionally, Norton plans to expand its retail network internationally, including new entries in India and the United States.
Austria opens Working Holiday visa programme to Indians aged 18-30, including 11 other countries
Young Indians can now embrace adventure through Austria's Working Holiday Programme, allowing them to explore the country while engaging in temporary jobs and education. With eligibility extended to 12 nations, this initiative offers a unique cultural experience. Interested applicants should consult the nearest Austrian embassy to initiate their journey and check eligibility requirements.
After Louvre heist and string of thefts, Europe's smaller museums are on guard
A recent theft at the Fondazione Magnani Rocca museum resulted in €9 million worth of stolen artworks. The incident reflects a broader trend of increasing thefts at smaller museums across Europe. Research indicates that many cultural institutions lack adequate security and emergency plans to combat such threats. Authorities are taking measures to improve security, including investing in technology and surveillance.
French billionaire Xavier Niel gets CCI approval to acquire 16.2% stake in Vodafone
Xavier Niel's investment vehicle, Vega SAS, has obtained approval from the Competition Commission of India to purchase a 16.2 percent stake in Vodafone Group for approximately 4.4 billion pounds. Post-acquisition, Vega SAS will become Vodafone's primary shareholder, a pivotal step as Vodafone continues to concentrate on its core markets following earlier restructuring efforts. This decision also complies with India's fair competition regulations, promoting healthy market dynamics.
Who is Samiksha Shetty? Archana Puran Singh’s son Ayushmaan Sethi proposes to longtime girlfriend in Italy. See dreamy pictures
During a dreamy trip to Capri, Italy, Ayushmaan Sethi popped the question to his girlfriend, Samiksha Shetty. Samiksha took to Instagram to share the dreamy moment, with breathtaking views as a backdrop. Alongside the stunning photos, they wrote a heartfelt message to showcase their love. Read on!
India, HD Hyundai advance plans for $4 billion shipyard in Tamil Nadu
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal engaged with HD Hyundai's Chairman in Seoul to discuss a significant shipyard project. The proposed USD 4 billion greenfield shipyard will be located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu. A joint working group is tasked with overseeing the project development and establishing a joint venture structure. Once operational, the shipyard aims to enhance India's competitiveness in global maritime markets.
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