SMALL INTERMEDIARIES
Care comes at a cost: India's ageing population exposes a broken caregiving system
India's rapidly ageing population is driving demand for caregivers, but the sector faces a shortage of trained workers, low wages, poor working conditions and uneven recruitment standards. High costs burden families, while inadequate training and job security undermine care quality. Experts call for professional recognition, better pay and structured training.
Rs. 400 crore of ‘cash’ that existed only on paper: Not for the first time, nor will it be the last
When something is wrong inside a company, the people running it know first. The auditors may sense it next. A regulator might confirm it years later, in an order the public finally gets to read. The ordinary shareholder sits at the very end of that queue, usually learning the truth only after the share price has already delivered its verdict. The value of reading the accounts closely is simple: It is the one way to move a little higher up that queue, while there is still time to act.
Nvidia chips pile up in Hong Kong as China withholds import approval
About 600,000 of Nvidia's advanced artificial intelligence chips are stored in Hong Kong awaiting shipment to mainland China, two people familiar with the matter said, as Beijing withholds approval for large-scale imports despite demand from technology firms.
Wayanad: Channelling CSR funds to rebuild lives and future
In July 2024, Wayanad faced severe flash floods and landslides, leaving a trail of destruction that impacted homes and children's education. Recognizing this crisis, T Siddique launched Bhoomi, a noble initiative aimed at aiding students affected by the disaster. Athira, an aspiring aeronautical engineer, found hope through this program after losing her home.
Explained: Why Sebi wants mutual fund investors to switch to direct plans
Sebi has directed mutual fund houses to make direct plans the default option on digital platforms. This change will take effect from November 1, when investors will see direct plans pre-selected for investment. Direct plans have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans, benefiting long-term investors through compounded returns. These changes aim to reduce conflicts of interest associated with higher commission payments in regular plans.
Most wanted stocks 2026: 6 stocks mutual funds are buying even as markets slump
Stock market investors are growing wary as prices continue to drop amid broader economic issues. Nevertheless, mutual fund managers are optimistic, identifying many investment opportunities during this downturn. The article identifies six stocks that have seen a rise in mutual fund investments, showcasing their resilience and growth potential during tough times. This analysis offers investors valuable insights to enhance their future strategies.
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UK announces new 'safe and legal' refugee resettlement routes, includes India among seven countries
The UK government has announced new resettlement pathways for refugees to deter illegal migration methods. These pathways will focus on seven countries, including India, and refugees must be outside their home countries. Applicants will undergo necessary checks before gaining refugee status in the UK, starting their arrivals in autumn 2027. Community sponsorship and other support will facilitate the integration of refugees into UK society.
SEBI to make direct mutual fund plans default from November 1; reviews IPO and SME listing rules: Reports
SEBI will make direct mutual fund plans the default option on AMC digital platforms starting November 1, while investors choosing regular plans must be informed about their higher costs. The regulator is also reviewing IPO frameworks, simplifying market regulations and expanding the use of AI to strengthen supervision and investor protection.
The next problem to solve: When money arrives, what can merchants do in the meantime?
At GFF 2026, PRISM founder Ritesh Agarwal and Adyen’s Chief Commercial Officer Roelant Prins discussed why, for merchants such as small hotel owners, how quickly money arrives now matters as much as whether a payment is accepted, and why AI is changing back offices faster than it is changing how people buy.
The experience of the Shanti Rasa or Bhaav key reason behind Hanuman Ansh’s success: Producer Namrata G Singh
The film Hanuman Ansh has grossed nearly Rs340 crore at the box office, which is unprecedented for its modest budget. Producer Namrata G Singh emphasizes the significance of preserving intellectual property in storytelling. The film, rooted in spirituality, explores the life of Neem Karoli Maharaj and his connections with devotees. It also aims to expand into various formats and languages to reach global audiences.
Don’t ship air: Why metal swarf Is crushed and briquetted
Metal swarf is often viewed as mere waste, yet it holds potential for efficient recycling into briquettes for steel production. Based in Orenburg, SteelCom specializes in converting swarf through advanced crushing and pressing technologies. This process not only streamlines metal recycling but also minimizes handling expenses and conserves vital resources. Their adaptable technology caters to businesses of all sizes, showcasing their expertise and reliability in addressing recycling challenges.
Traditional stockbroking firms must adapt to AI driven changes or risk becoming obsolete in 10 years: DEA Joint Secretary Alok Tiwari
Technology's rapid growth is transforming capital markets, compelling players to rethink their operational frameworks. Dr. Alok Tiwari emphasizes the need to abandon outdated brokerage models within the next decade. He advocates for the merging and professionalization of small, family-run firms to succeed amid increasing complexity. The integration of technology with evolving governance structures is critical for managing future challenges, while market intermediaries remain essential in fostering trust and driving progress.
32-year-old mech engineer left his job to do organic farming in a village; now earns Rs 3 lakh profit selling wide variety of crops directly to customers
Jobandeep Singh left his engineering job after four months and returned to his village in Punjab to pursue agriculture as a business. He now grows organic crops across four acres, maintains livestock and sells directly to around 50 regular customers. His experience highlights how crop diversification, natural farming methods and direct marketing can offer an alternative approach to small-scale agriculture.
No meddling as 'middlemen' in forex conversion by banks: New rules forbid conversion of foreign earnings into rupees to detriment of exporters
The Foreign Exchange Dealers' Association of India (FEDAI) has directed banks not to convert foreign currency remittances into rupees without specific instructions from the sender or beneficiary. The move follows concerns that intermediary banks were converting dollars at unfavourable exchange rates, leaving small exporters and individuals receiving overseas payments with less money. Banks have also been asked to ensure transparent forex service charges and disclose currency conversion rates on their websites.
Explained: Why are credit default swaps unnerving AI investors?
Although shares in companies driving the AI boom are still among the biggest gainers on global equity markets this year, many have fallen sharply in the past few weeks, as investors reassess the cost of capital against a backdrop of rising interest rates and inflation.
Effective insurance coverage in India could double from 15% to 30% in five years: IRDAI Chairman
Only about 15 per cent of India's population and businesses are estimated to have effective insurance coverage, a figure that could double to 30 per cent over the next five years, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) Chairman Ajay Seth said on Thursday, highlighting the large protection gap in the country.
Why are credit default swaps unnerving AI investors?
The cost of insuring against the risk of potential US tech defaults has hit record levels in the latest sign of credit stress building in the so-called AI trade, especially for data centres dependent on future revenue.
Next financial crisis may stem from cyberattack or geopolitical shock, RBI governor says
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the next financial crisis may be triggered by geopolitical shocks, cyberattacks or technology failures rather than the banking system itself, calling for stronger resilience across markets, payments, non-banks and critical infrastructure. He said India’s financial system remains strong, but warned that “today’s resilience” does not guarantee immunity from future shocks.
RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra flags rising financial risks, warns against complacency as West Asia conflict adds to inflation pressure
Sanjay Malhotra highlighted the need for vigilance regarding financial vulnerabilities at the Kautilya Economic Conclave. He emphasized that banking and financial stress can develop suddenly yet take years to resolve. Malhotra pointed out the interplay of geopolitical and economic factors complicating current financial stability predictions. He stressed the Reserve Bank of India's role in maintaining financial resilience through appropriate regulations and supervision.
PMEGP may get 5-year extension till 2030-31 with Rs 15,000 crore outlay; govt weighs easier norms
The government is considering extending the Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme until 2030-31 with an estimated Rs 15,000 crore outlay, while easing access for vulnerable, rural and first-time entrepreneurs. Proposed changes include less documentation and no collateral requirements, as the scheme has sanctioned Rs 91,000 crore in loans so far.
ETMarkets Smart Talk | The next 12 months may be about capital saved, not returns made: Praveen Jagwani
Praveen Jagwani advises investors to prioritize capital preservation over chasing high returns. Highlighting the need for extensive diversification among asset classes, he warns that a forthcoming Federal Reserve rate hike may influence Indian markets, impacting the rupee and foreign investments. He recommends focusing on quality equities, high-grade debt, and resilient assets to ensure portfolio sturdiness, especially amid a fluctuating global economic landscape.
McNally Bharat: ED probes 'backdoor return' of old power network via IBC
Enforcement Directorate has traced ₹105 crore of cash infusion to McNally Bharat Engineering from Vishwa Group entities. The funds moved through complex networks involving non-banking financial companies and special purpose vehicles. Investigators are examining the role of several individuals and entities associated with this cash flow. Additionally, changes in ownership after the resolution plan approval are under scrutiny.
AI Is Changing How Customers Choose Your Business
As AI increasingly mediates how customers research, evaluate, and choose suppliers, competitive advantage is shifting from direct customer understanding to managing AI-shaped interactions. Drawing on the experiences of three small-to-medium sized businesses they worked with, the authors show how firms can adapt. A manufacturer improved sales efficiency by screening AI-generated inquiries before investing engineering time in quotations. A boutique hotel learned to monitor how AI tools described its business and revised public content to improve accuracy and differentiation. A B2B software company replaced periodic customer reviews with continuous monitoring of customer feedback and AI-generated market perceptions. Across all three cases, the lesson is that firms must treat AI as a new intermediary in the customer relationship. Winning companies will not necessarily spend the most on technology; they will build systems for continuously listening, interpreting signals, and adapting strategy in markets where both customers and the information they rely on are increasingly AI-mediated.
The battle of bourses: NSE shook Dalal Street, beat BSE's broker club
The NSE listed its own shares on the BSE on Thursday, 34 years after its incorporation, marking an ironic milestone for the exchange created to challenge the BSE’s dominance. The story of NSE began with Manohar J. Pherwani, who proposed a national, computerised exchange after the 1991 economic reforms.
ETMarkets Smart Talk| STT, GST, brokerage, UPI charges: Varun Saboo on the hidden cost of frequent trading
In this episode of ETMarkets Smart Talk, Varun Saboo, Head – Equities at Anand Rathi Share and Stock Brokers, breaks down the hidden cost of frequent trading, explains why the impact differs sharply between long-term investors and active traders, and shares what investors should keep in mind when evaluating returns after transaction costs.
UPI for mutual funds: Benefits, limits and impact of new MDR explained
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) enables convenient investment in mutual funds through instant payments and SIPs. Investors appreciate UPI for its ability to process transactions 24/7 and avoid manual input. Recently, a 0.02% merchant discount rate was introduced on certain UPI transactions, affecting one-time investments. However, SIPs under UPI AutoPay remain exempt from this fee, easing investor concerns.
With ‘The Box’, RealX takes aim at the big-ticket barrier in real estate
RealX Co-Founder & CEO Manish Kumar on the company’s push to make real estate more accessible through fractional ownership and new digital infrastructure.
New charges on UPI payments: Here's what you will be charged for stock market investments
UPI payments for capital market transactions will attract a nominal 0.02% Merchant Discount Rate, capped at Rs 300. The fee covers mutual funds, securities, brokers and dealers, with limited impact expected for long-term investors but greater sensitivity among frequent traders.
FADA in initial pact with Rosmerta Digital to simplify vehicle compliance services
FADA and Rosmerta Digital Services have partnered to simplify vehicle compliance procedures. Their new platform, Rosmart, offers citizens a digital access point for traffic violation details. Dealers can now upload cases in bulk or assist customers directly through this service. This initiative aims to combat fraud and cybercrime associated with unauthorized websites. The collaboration brings credible and convenient compliance solutions closer to vehicle owners.
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