MARKET ACCESS
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.
India's apparel production falls 5.6% in H1 FY27 as weak US demand, high costs hit manufacturers
India's apparel production contracted 5.6% year on year in April-September, extending its decline to nine consecutive months as subdued US demand and rising cotton and polyester prices weighed on manufacturers. Textile production, however, grew 13.1% during the period, supported by stronger demand for yarn, fabric and home textiles.
IFC extends $150 million credit line to SBI in first investment in an Indian state-owned bank
The International Finance Corporation has extended a $150 million social loan to State Bank of India to support agricultural financing for around 864,000 rural women. The IFC has also executed its first domestic cross-currency swap with an Indian bank, making SBI its first local swap counterparty in South Asia.
IndusInd Bank customers can now send money abroad in 123 currencies through J.P. Morgan tie-up
IndusInd Bank has teamed up with J.P. Morgan Payments to elevate their outward remittance capabilities. This partnership enables customers to transfer money globally in 123 currencies with local-currency settlements. By integrating the Xpedite solution, the bank aims to simplify international transactions and plans to enhance online and mobile banking offerings for a more user-friendly experience.
The man behind Lord’s Mark: Dr. Sachidanand Upadhyay features in TIME Magazine for the third consecutive year
Dr. Sachidanand Upadhyay has gained recognition from TIME Magazine for his remarkable contributions to technology and innovation. Lord’s Mark Industries Limited is spearheading key projects in healthcare, defence, and sustainability. With critical product registrations achieved, the company is poised for international growth. Upadhyay envisions transforming India into a prominent technology and manufacturing hub, emphasizing the importance of homegrown innovation in the global marketplace.
SAP must continue software support to Nayara: Delhi HC
Delhi High Court's division bench refused to stay a single judge's order for SAP India to continue software services. Nayara Energy requires access to SAP's support system for its operations, as denied access could incur high costs. SAP suspended its services after the European Union imposed sanctions against Nayara Energy for its links to Russia.

Trust market returns to secure oil: India owns stakes in oilfields from Russia to Abu Dhabi, but getting that crude home is another challenge
India's overseas oil investments, particularly in Russian oilfields, have not guaranteed preferential access to crude during supply disruptions such as the Strait of Hormuz crisis. The article examines how sanctions, shipping costs, insurance restrictions and commercial considerations limit the energy security benefits of equity oil, and why India needs to assess overseas investments separately from their supply security claims.

AI will level the playing field for SMBs competing with larger businesses: Oracle NetSuite’s Amit Suxena
Suxena said that a massive technological revolution is underway and these are exciting times for new businesses, start-ups, and companies looking to expand.

Democrats' US midterm sweep may give India more room to negotiate a balanced trade deal with Trump
Democrats' takeover of both chambers of the US Congress could ease pressure on India in trade negotiations with the Trump administration, experts said. Greater Congressional scrutiny of tariffs may create opportunities for Indian exporters, although the existing 18% tariff is unlikely to change immediately and the bilateral trade agreement could face delays.

Why are companies restricting AI access to employees
Goldman Sachs, Uber, JPMorgan and Nvidia are some of the global firms that have restricted their employees’ usage of AI tools

Sebi imposes Rs 40 lakh penalty on two brokers in Axis Mutual Fund front-running case
Securities and Exchange Board of India has imposed penalties on two stockbroking firms over regulatory violations. Woodstock Broking and Marfatia Stock Broking allowed unauthorized access to their trading terminals. This access facilitated front-running trades by Prijesh Kurani, who operated from Dubai. The investigation revealed insider information was shared regarding Axis Mutual Fund's trades. The regulatory body emphasized the importance of stringent controls over terminal access and trading infrastructure.

India has never allowed genetically modified products' import, won't do in future: Piyush Goyal
India continues to maintain a strict policy against the import of genetically modified products, as stated by Minister Piyush Goyal. He highlighted that the dairy sector remains particularly sensitive and has not been opened in trade agreements. Goyal emphasized India's commitment to protecting its agricultural and fisheries sectors while seeking preferential market access for textiles and pharmaceuticals.

Karnataka, Finland’s Tampere region sign pact to create Creative Corridor for AVGC, immersive tech
The agreement was signed under the Global Innovation Alliance (GIA) initiative of the Department of Electronics, IT and Biotechnology through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS). The proposed corridor will seek to strengthen cross-border partnerships, innovation and business opportunities between the two ecosystems.

NSE International Exchange begins 23.5-hour trading, extends market access across global time zones
NSE International Exchange has introduced a 23.5-hour trading schedule, providing near-continuous market access across Asian, European and American time zones. The extended window aims to help global investors respond to international developments while strengthening GIFT City’s position as a global financial hub.

Wockhardt expands novel antibiotic Miqnaf's access; Q2 revenue rises 24%
Wockhardt has expanded its marketing access for Miqnaf in India following the removal of a supply condition. The company's biotechnology sector recorded significant revenue growth, indicating strong demand for its products. Zaynich received US FDA approval for complicated urinary tract infections, serving as a milestone for Indian pharmaceuticals.

India-New Zealand FTA: Expanding India’s footprint in Oceania
More than a trade deal, the India-New Zealand FTA is a strategic gateway to new markets, fresh investment and stronger capabilities, positioning India to compete, connect, and grow across the Asia-Pacific.

India, EU discuss FTA implementation, customs cooperation and market access in Brussels
India and the European Union engaged in discussions regarding the implementation of their Free Trade Agreement. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal held meetings with various senior European Commission officials in Brussels, focusing on market access and customs procedures. The FTA is expected to eliminate tariffs on the majority of exports from both regions. Both parties are working towards the proposed signing and full ratification of the agreement.

EAM Jaishankar discusses Ukraine-Russia conflict solutions amid G20 summit
India has engaged in discussions with Russia, Europe, and Ukraine regarding the ongoing conflict and its impact. These talks focused on preventing attacks on civilian shipping and restoring grain exports affected by Black Sea disruptions. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the complexity of discussions around ceasing attacks on energy installations. Various interpretations of what constitutes energy installations have complicated these discussions.

India’s FTAs to open access to $85 trillion market; Piyush Goyal urges exporters to go global
India's trade agreements are expected to provide exporters preferential access to markets with a combined GDP of $85 trillion, covering 76% of the global economy, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. He urged businesses to expand internationally, improve product quality and build global brands as India pursues additional trade pacts.
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