MODERATION POLICY
Gold may glitter at Rs 1.68 lakh as global uncertainties bolster outlook: Report
Gold prices in India could rise to ₹1.60-1.68 lakh per 10 grams over the next 6-12 months, according to Motilal Oswal Financial Services (MOFSL), which sees price corrections as buying opportunities amid sustained investment demand and central-bank purchases..
Auto sales to maintain momentum, driven by GST relief, EVs : SIAM
The Indian automotive industry is expected to sustain growth momentum in the second half of the fiscal year. Key factors include improved affordability, strong financing support, and resilient market demand. Sales of entry-level passenger cars have surged significantly, indicating a revival in consumption among first-time buyers.
Microfinance lenders tread cautiously amid rural stress
The microfinance sector experienced varied performance in the second quarter of FY27, reflecting economic uncertainty. Bandhan Bank and CreditAccess Grameen saw declines in their microfinance portfolios, while IndusInd Bank grew its portfolio. Lenders are concerned about the impact of drought and inflation on rural borrowers. Estimates for the sector's growth varied between credit information companies, indicating inconsistencies. Collection discipline has improved, but localized climate disruptions continue to pose risks.
LIC net profit jumps 20% YoY to Rs 12,076 crore on higher premiums
Life Insurance Corporation of India reported a 20% year-on-year increase in net profit for the September quarter. Net premium income rose by 16.2% to ₹1.47 lakh crore during the same period. Despite investment challenges, the company's profit growth remained strong due to higher premium income. The value of new business also increased significantly, reflecting improved margins across product categories.
Democrats turn to 2028 White House race after midterm triumph, but party divided over its direction
Democrats have begun positioning for the 2028 US presidential race after sweeping midterm victories, but divisions over the party's ideological direction could complicate their path to the White House. Meanwhile, Republicans face the challenge of finding a successor to Donald Trump while retaining his influential MAGA voter base.
US midterm elections: What a Democratic Congress could mean for Indian H-1B visa holders
The potential shift towards a Democratic majority in Congress may reshape the discourse on immigration law. Nevertheless, specialists indicate that immediate adjustments for Indian tech workers concerning H-1B visas are improbable. The lingering impact of the previous administration on immigration policy remains prominent.

Explained: 5 reasons why Trump’s midterm election setback matters for Indian markets and economy
Donald Trump’s midterm election setback has triggered a global market rally, with Indian equities gaining sharply. Lower crude oil prices, a weaker dollar, potential FII inflows, reduced tariff risks and changing US interest rate expectations could reshape India's economic outlook. Here are five key ways the political shift could impact markets.

Democratic victories threaten to slow US data-centre expansion, ease bond yields: ICICI Bank report
The US midterm election results have put 141 GW of planned data-centre capacity at risk of tighter policy restrictions, potentially slowing AI infrastructure investments, while supporting US Treasury bonds, according to an ICICI Bank report.

US Midterm Elections: Reasons why Republicans lost Ground far beyond swing states. Warning signs were at the gas pump and grocery store
Democrats won control of Congress in the 2026 midterms, putting Donald Trump on the defensive. Voters’ frustration over prices and the Iran war made it harder for Republicans to defend the administration’s record.

US midterm elections 2026: Democrat Abdul El-Sayed claims victory in brutal Senate battle in Michigan
Abdul El-Sayed has emerged victorious in the contentious Michigan Senate race, winning against Republican Mike Rogers by garnering 51.8% of the votes. This historic win not only strengthens Democratic power in the Senate but also makes El-Sayed the first Muslim elected to the position. With endorsements from influential progressives, his campaign has faced scrutiny over accusations of antisemitism and Islamophobia, amidst critical budgetary concerns that highlighted the election's stakes.

Gold and silver prices correct ahead of Diwali: Buying opportunity or a trap?
Gold and silver have corrected sharply from record highs, but their long-term fundamentals remain supportive. Investors with a longer horizon may consider staggered accumulation, with gold and silver potentially recovering toward $4,750 and $75, respectively, by Diwali 2027.

ETtech Explainer: Why SIM-binding is a concern for consumers and businesses
A new study raises alarms about the Department of Telecommunications' proposed SIM-binding requirement for messaging applications. The mandate could severely disrupt operations for consumers and businesses alike, especially impacting international travelers who depend on local SIMs or Wi-Fi. Businesses are bracing for heightened costs and difficulties tied to limited device accessibility.

Gold firms on softer oil prices, US midterm results awaited
Gold prices experienced a modest uptick in early Asian markets, spurred by a decline in oil prices that has helped ease inflationary concerns. This shift is shaping investor expectations around potential actions from the Federal Reserve. Attention is also focused on the US midterm election outcomes, which could influence market volatility, while India's gold demand faces a projected six-year low amidst high prices affecting sales.

Global survey finds mental health languishing 'here and now', especially in youth
A recent study indicates that global mental health is a pressing concern, particularly for younger populations. The research involved 50,000 participants across 92 countries and discovered lower mental health scores among youth. Older individuals showed improved mental health indicators and better perceptions of relationships. Respondents reported feeling positive about personal circumstances despite external stressors negatively affecting their well-being. Policymakers are urged to take specific actions to address these challenges effectively.

Silver crashes below $60 from $122 and enters oversold zone. What should you do?
Silver’s sharp rally has reversed amid expectations of higher US interest rates, rising bond yields and a stronger dollar. HSBC expects limited upside as weaker demand, increasing supply and a narrowing market deficit reduce the chances of the metal returning to $100 soon.

Bank CD rates surge above 8% amid liquidity squeeze, rising T-Bill yields
Public-sector banks have recently increased one-year certificate of deposit rates beyond 8%, influenced by stricter liquidity and high treasury-bill yields. The reduction in banking liquidity has led to a noticeable rise in CD issuances lately. Observers predict further policy rate hikes to address inflation effectively, signaling that the current rates may not yet reflect their maximum potential amidst ongoing market fluctuations.

Lowering LTCG isn't a magic bullet
A reduction in Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax could uplift sentiment in India's equity market, especially as foreign investors withdraw. The current landscape is shaped more by external economic influences than tax adjustments. The reinstatement of LTCG has rendered India less appealing compared to rivals like Hong Kong and Singapore. A strategically planned tax cut may provide clearer policy stability for investors while preserving fiscal responsibility.

GST collections jump 22.9% to Rs 2.31 lakh crore in October as festive demand beats high inflation and interest rates
India's GST collections in October reached ₹2.31 lakh crore, reflecting a 22.9% year-on-year increase. Strong consumption trends are indicated by rising passenger car sales and record digital payments. Power consumption also surged nearly 22% compared to last year, further emphasizing economic strength. Despite a high inflation rate of 5.5%, demand has remained robust, supporting growth forecasts. Analysts suggest this growth aligns with leading indicators of a consumption-driven economy.

Mass brands give liquor companies a hangover
"It is difficult to pinpoint the reasons for the slowdown, even in states such as Uttar Pradesh which had recorded strong growth earlier," said Amar Sinha, managing director of Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD), maker of Officer's Choice whisky. There are "no clear factors explaining the weakness," he said.
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