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CCI clears five major deals across food, energy, fintech and telecom sectors
CCI has granted approval for five significant business transactions in sectors like food services and renewable energy. The merger of Sapphire Foods India Limited with Devyani International Limited aims to combine their restaurant operations in India. Aditya Birla Renewables Limited is set to acquire Solenergi Power Private Limited from Shell for approximately Rs 17,200 crore. In financial services, Prosus N.V.
Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga face long road to redemption in China
Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid and La Liga have apologised after the footballer sparked outrage in China with comments about former leader Mao Zedong. The controversy has led major Chinese brands to cut ties with the French striker, while La Liga matches have been pulled from state broadcaster CCTV. Experts warn that the apologies may not be enough to repair the damage to their reputation and commercial interests in the country.
TRAI’s internet TV proposal raises concerns over wider OTT regulation, say legal experts
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has proposed a new framework for internet-based linear television distribution. This recommendation could broaden the interpretation of the Telecommunications Act and affect other digital content. Legal experts express concerns over TRAI's jurisdiction regarding OTT services and the implications for freedom of speech. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting must decide whether to adopt these recommendations.
Instagram challenges Youtube with 90-minute videos: All you need to know
Instagram is testing a new long-form video format called 'Features' to allow content creators to upload 90-minute videos. This format is currently available to select users in the United States and Brazil. Instagram aims to integrate long-form content into its existing Reels ecosystem to attract more creators. The platform is exploring various options to help long-form creators earn revenue.
T-Mobile T-Mix plans bring Netflix, Apple TV and Xbox Game Pass: Check prices, perks and features
T-Mobile is set to introduce its innovative T-Mix wireless plans this November, designed to offer an enticing mix of mobile services and sought-after subscriptions. Customers can look forward to bundled options like Xbox Game Pass, Netflix, and Apple TV among others. The plans, categorized as Standard, More, and Loaded, will cater to diverse customer needs, with pricing reflecting the number of lines and chosen subscriptions.
AI ad blitz distorts US midterms 2026
AI-generated political advertisements are becoming more prevalent as the November elections approach, raising concerns among voters. Researchers have identified over 220 ads made partly with AI, primarily sponsored by Republican groups, costing over $137 million. Only a small percentage of these advertisements carry disclaimers stating they were created with AI technology. Many voters express their disapproval of AI-generated content in political campaigns during recent surveys.
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Amazon Prime Video subscriber paid Rs 1,499 for a year, but ads appeared before the plan expired; court orders Rs 9,499 payout
A Hyderabad consumer commission has directed Amazon Prime Video to pay Rs 9,499 to a subscriber after advertisements appeared during his paid annual membership and the platform sought an additional Rs 699 for ad-free viewing. The commission held the platform guilty of deficiency in service and unfair trade practice, ordering a full subscription refund, Rs 5,000 in compensation and Rs 3,000 towards litigation costs.
ITBP has raised drone platoons, building bunkers along LAC: ITBP DG
ITBP Director General (DG) Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor told his troops at a force base in Rajasthan's Alwar that countering China through "traditional" means of warfare was a thing of the past and hence they were investing in modernizing the force, its weapons, vehicles and border posts.
Republicans bet Musk's millions can rescue Texas' Paxton in US Senate race
Texas’ Senate race has become one of the most expensive in US history, with more than $500 million spent as Republican groups, backed by major donors including Elon Musk, seek to help Ken Paxton defeat Democrat James Talarico. With early voting underway, analysts say the focus has shifted from persuading undecided voters to mobilising supporters, while both parties battle over inflation, the Iran war and culture-war issues.
Gautam Adani meets Gurudevshri Rakeshji in Dharampur, says Adani Foundation keen to partner with mission on Grassroots Projects
Gautam Adani visited Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur in Gujarat along with his wife Dr. Priti Adani. They met the Mission's founder, Gurudevshri Rakeshji, to discuss the principles of seva and sadhana. During the visit, Adani expressed interest in collaborating with the Mission on various initiatives and praised the volunteers' dedication.
As midterms loom, Trump seizes on France unrest for political gain
Protests in France erupt over high inflation, leading to political discussions in the US midterm elections. President Donald Trump cites these events to advocate for stricter immigration policies and bolster support for his party. Analysts suggest that while this strategy may resonate with his base, it overlooks pressing domestic issues prioritized by most voters. Experts note that the economy remains the primary concern among Americans in upcoming elections.
Meet Scott Mathson, who built Plink with just $100 in 2019; by 2025, his podcast-link service was processing 8.2 million requests a month
Plink provides a service that creates smart links that direct listeners to podcast on their proffered listening platforms. It does not share separate links for Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other services. It just creates a single link. The service can direct the listener to a compatible podcast app when they open the link on a mobile device. Meanwhile, people who use desktop can access a page showing different listening options.
Tata Play dishes out ₹199 wildcard to stay connected in changing world
Tata Play is launching the Tata Play Smart app, enabling access to over 500 live television channels. The app requires an internet connection and is compatible with various devices including smart TVs. Tata Play maintains that traditional DTH services will continue to exist alongside streaming services. The company aims to expand its user base by attracting households yet to subscribe to pay television.
CashKaro data shows how Indians shopped this festive season: Smarter savings and growth beyond metros
CashKaro data from six days of festive sales shows GMV up about 18x over a comparable regular period. Small cities, Telegram groups and smart shoppers stacking savings helped drive the surge, as fashion and electronics outpaced mobiles.
In 1992, Jan Koum's family relied on food stamps; 22 years later, Facebook agreed to buy WhatsApp, which he co-founded, for $19 billion
Jan Koum grew up in Ukraine and had limited access to technology. He also reportedly had concerns about government surveillance. According to reports, his family moved to California in 1992. He was only 16 at that time. His father remained in Ukraine, and staying in touch with members was difficult.
Spill Games raises $10.5 million led by Elevation Capital
Founded in 2024 by three former employees of PlaySimple Games — Om Misra, Tapan Ranjan, and Harsh Garg — Spill develops free-to-play casual, puzzle, and hybrid-casual mobile games for global markets.
VCs clip all love & cash on agentic AI
As personal AI agents transform the consumer internet, Indian VCs are shifting the focus from attention-grabbing apps to intent-driven assistants, writes Himanshi Lohchab. From AI financial advisers, health companions to personal concierges, investors are betting that the next generation of consumer businesses will be built around intent, personalisation and delegation, rather than attention and app engagement.
Diwali Sale 2026: Buying fridge, AC, or washing machine online? Here’s how to get the best deal on big appliances and save more
Online sales of big appliances are growing at 25% as the festive sales begin. The Kagan 2026 Asia-Pacific Consumer Insights survey by S&P Global Market Intelligence, conducted in June 2026 among 1,000 internet adults each in China, South Korea and India, shows that most Indian respondents still primarily make retail purchases from stores.
Startup of the Year Groww bets on scale; Qcomm sparks festive credit surge
Happy Thursday! Groww is betting its newer businesses will take a bigger slice of its income. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
The Comeback of the Physical Store—and What It Means for Your Business
Brick-and-mortar retail is not declining but evolving, as stores take on new roles as logistics hubs, experiential destinations, and powerful drivers of demand and brand equity. Rising digital acquisition costs and operational challenges are pushing companies to integrate physical and online channels, using stores to improve fulfillment, customer engagement, and marketing effectiveness. The broader lesson for leaders: assets once viewed as liabilities can become competitive advantages when their role is reimagined and aligned with changing economics and customer behavior.
SDKs emerge as key gateway to AI advertising as in-app ad market hits $400 billion
Independent advertising technology platforms are set to leverage SDKs to dominate the $400 billion in-app advertising market. Growth in this sector is characterized by a shift from traditional web-based advertising methods to SDK-driven strategies. Key companies like AppLovin and InMobi have established extensive SDK footprints, enhancing their competitive advantage. As AI products scale, the importance of advertising will increase to cover operational costs.
FLY91 begins flights from Navi Mumbai airport, adds four direct routes
FLY91 has begun operating from Navi Mumbai International Airport, offering direct flights to various destinations. The airline plans to operate over 350 weekly flights in its winter schedule. Multiple public transport options will connect passengers to and from the airport, enhancing accessibility. E-Shivai electric buses, taxi services, and autorickshaws will provide economical transport solutions. The airport is establishing infrastructure to support electric vehicles and improve mobility options in the region.
Navi Mumbai International Airport rolls out multimodal connectivity ahead of winter schedule
Navi Mumbai International Airport is set to enhance its transport network with affordable options for passengers. Multiple services include buses, taxis, and airport shuttles, offering economical travel across regions. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation will begin the e-Shivai bus operations on October 7 for passengers. Besides, ride-sharing services such as Bharat Taxi and Uber will be available starting October 10.
In 2005, Yahoo invested $1 billion in Alibaba. 10 years later, its stake was worth more than $30 billion after the Chinese giant went public
Yahoo’s Alibaba investment changed the company’s financial story. In 2005, Yahoo paid $1 billion for a 40% stake in the Chinese e-commerce company. Ten years later, that holding was worth about $30 billion. Yahoo then dropped its plan to spin off the Alibaba stake after U.S. tax authorities refused to confirm tax-free treatment.
WHEN LACK OF NUANCE STOPS A TRANS CULTURAL TALE FROM WORKING
The conservative backlash against progressive films can stifle constructive artistic discourse. Tamil movie Dorothy specifically draws attention to its depiction of transgender identities and the narrative direction taken. Although it has its flaws, the film delivers impactful performances and evocative music that resonate with audiences. Dorothy serves as a catalyst for vital discussions around representation and inclusivity in Indian cinema, pushing boundaries and underscoring the positive changes that have emerged.
India, Bulgaria review bilateral ties; push for early India-EU FTA
India and Bulgaria have called for early implementation of the India-EU free trade agreement, saying it could significantly deepen bilateral economic ties. The two sides also reviewed cooperation in trade, investment, AI, space, defence, science and technology, while discussing wider regional and global issues.
New OTT releases of the week (September 28 - October 4): 10 new movies and shows on Netflix, Prime Video, JioHotstar and more
Cinema lovers are in for a treat this week with new films and shows rolling out on ZEE5, Netflix, and Prime Video. Highlighted titles include the spine-tingling psychological thriller Pooja Meri Jaan, the popular Malayalam release Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, and the delightful Tamil rom-com #Love. Fans of reality TV can check out The Arena, while documentary lovers can watch The Last First: Winter K2. Read on!
Lessons from Chinese AI Firms on Owning Customers’ Habits
As U.S. AI firms compete in an escalating race for superior models, bigger benchmarks, and more advanced features, Chinese companies are pursuing a fundamentally different strategy: embedding AI into users’ everyday habits. The authors argue that this “habit moat” approach may prove more durable than competing on raw capability alone. Whereas Western firms position AI as a destination consumers consciously visit, companies like Alibaba integrate AI into existing routines such as shopping, payments, food delivery, and travel booking, reducing friction until using AI becomes automatic behavior. Once AI capabilities become “good enough,” marginal technical improvements matter less than becoming the default path through recurring customer tasks. The authors outline four strategic imperatives for Western leaders: focus on behavioral cues rather than feature gaps, subsidize customer behavior instead of subscriptions, embed AI invisibly into existing workflows, and optimize for repeat usage rather than first-time adoption. The central warning is stark: AI may not replace employees first—it may instead capture the critical customer moments businesses currently own.
As microdrama content explodes, ShareChat says the algorithm could determine what gets seen
Charan said falling production costs and the use of artificial intelligence would lead to more stories being produced at greater speed. As the number of similar stories increases, he said, the algorithm will determine which ones get viewed.
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