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Companies need to overhaul cybersecurity as AI accelerates vulnerability attacks: Report
Companies will need to fundamentally overhaul their cybersecurity strategies and increase investments in automated threat detection and vulnerability management as frontier artificial intelligence (AI) makes it easier for cyberattackers to identify and exploit software weaknesses, according to a McKinsey report.
US stocks today: Dow rallies 1,500 pts, S&P, Nasdaq over 1% as Democrats win midterm elections
Wall Street experienced a significant rally after the Democrats gained control of Congress, which eased political uncertainties. Investor sentiment was boosted, although data centre stocks faced a selloff due to potential scrutiny. Major tech companies like Amazon and Meta Platforms rose in value while AI infrastructure providers struggled. A decline in oil prices further contributed to market optimism regarding energy and clean technologies.
South Korea stocks plunge 8%, circuit breaker triggered as chip shares tumble
South Korea's KOSPI stock index fell more than 8% during early trading on Friday, reflecting a significant sell-off. The stock market decline was primarily driven by losses in technology and semiconductor shares. As a result, a circuit breaker was activated by the Korea Exchange to halt trading temporarily. Experts indicated that the reaction may be an overreaction to recent US midterm election outcomes.
FDA flags persistent data-integrity lapses, insanitary conditions at Indian drug facilities
The US FDA continues to identify serious data integrity issues in Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities. During inspections, inspectors found discarded documents related to key manufacturing processes, highlighting compliance concerns. To ensure safe medicines, drugmakers are urged to scrutinize their supply chains and monitor suppliers effectively. Additionally, human errors contributed significantly to production incidents, affecting operations and batch release timelines.
Festive stocking drives 36% jump in TReDS volumes as small businesses seek working capital
The five platforms operating under the Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) financed invoices worth Rs 75,788 crore in August and September, a 36% increase from Rs 55,549 crore in the same months last year, according to RBI data.
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.
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AI, data-center stocks slip as Democratic sweep clouds expansion plans
Stocks related to AI and data centers are facing a slump in premarket trading as Democrats secure significant wins in the US midterm elections. Investors are wary as possible regulatory changes from Congress loom, jeopardizing the industry's growth prospects. Analysts highlight that many anticipated data center capacity expansions could be at risk due to halts in construction.
UPI MDR proposal: Street vendors may pass on charges to customers or switch to cash, ISB survey finds
Payments by street vendors exceeding Rs 2,000 may incur charges under the proposed merchant discount rate framework. Many vendors may switch to cash transactions if additional costs are imposed by suppliers. Awareness of the framework varies among vendors in different city tiers, affecting their payment acceptance practices. A significant percentage of Tier 1 vendors are likely to pass on additional charges to customers.
Mercedes plans bigger India play with greater localisation of parts
Mercedes-Benz plans to increase its local manufacturing efforts while expanding its supplier base in India. The luxury carmaker expects to achieve record annual sales if the current trend continues. Ola Kallenius, the global chairman, highlighted the potential for Indian suppliers to support global operations. The company has committed an additional investment of ₹200 crore, raising total investments to ₹3,200 crore.
KOSPI crashes 4% as US midterm shock rattles Asian markets
Oil prices and stock markets reacted significantly to the recent midterm election victories by Democrats in the United States. Asian chip stocks declined alongside the dollar, indicating market volatility following the elections. Lower oil prices have resulted in a bond rally, subsequently reducing yield rates. Anticipation of increased support for renewables is driving optimism in solar supply chain stocks.
Over half of street vendors may cut UPI acceptance if 0.4% MDR is introduced: ISB study
More than 67% of street vendors in India currently accept UPI payments for transactions. A proposed 0.4% merchant discount rate could lead to reduced acceptance among vendors. Concerns arise particularly for vendor-supplier transactions, as many vendors make payments above ₹2,000. A significant portion of vendors faced additional charges from suppliers and might pass costs onto customers.
Nintendo Switch 2 cartridge maker Macronix exits ROM business: Why it's bad news for physical game lovers
Macronix, a pivotal player in the supply of Nintendo cartridges, is withdrawing from the ROM production sector amid dwindling interest. This move suggests a potential pivot towards a digital-only era for Nintendo. With digital game sales soaring and becoming a vital source of revenue, traditional physical game ownership is under threat. Consequently, physical Nintendo games may experience rising costs and scarcity, marking a significant shift in the gaming landscape.
Lenskart outlines roadmap for 25% Ebitda margin, says growth will take priority
In its shareholders' letter for the July-September quarter, the company said its strategy centred on controlling the entire value chain, from manufacturing frames and lenses to selling products directly to consumers, allowing it to retain margins otherwise distributed among suppliers and retailers.
India-EU trade deal to ease mobility for Indian professionals, but work visas will still be required
The proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement is set to simplify temporary entry for Indian professionals. It includes provisions for intra-corporate transferees, contractual service suppliers, independent professionals, and business visitors. Visa applications will still follow existing immigration procedures and conditions, ensuring applicants meet specific requirements.
MRPL boosts delivered oil buying as Iran war raises shipping risks
Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd plans to increase crude oil purchases on a delivered basis. This strategy aims to reduce shipping risks related to the ongoing Iran war. The company is also looking to diversify its crude sourcing to maintain full refinery capacity. CFO Devendra Kumar expressed hope for annual supply deals with Middle Eastern oil producers. Additionally, MRPL's fuel exports may decline as local consumption is projected to rise.
Airbus wants more 'Made in India' aircraft parts: From titanium to complex assemblies, here's what company plans to source next
Airbus plans to increase its annual sourcing of components and services from India to USD 2 billion before 2030, up from the current USD 1.6 billion. India head Jurgen Westermeier called the country a "very important market" and stressed the need to strengthen local manufacturing, MRO infrastructure and aviation training as the country's aircraft fleet expands.
Tata Projects wins contract to build global automaker's plant in Maharashtra
Tata Projects has secured a contract to build a greenfield plant in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. This project will involve the assembly shop, press, weld shop, and auxiliary buildings. The work encompasses civil, structural, architectural construction, and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems. Rajiv Menon mentioned the collaboration with a global automotive manufacturer will enhance advanced manufacturing capabilities.
India weighs new oil manoeuvre as old routes get jammed
The West Asia war has forced India to look at energy security through a new, different lens. The oil issue, for India, has now gone from being a procurement issue to being a test of economic resilience. That has compelled the govt to rethink how it sources, transports and stores the fuel that powers its economy.
India's top gas importer sets eyes on US LNG under long-term deal with Qatar
India is seeking US liquefied natural gas through its renewed 20-year supply deal with Qatar, its biggest LNG supplier, as the Iran war disrupts shipments from the Gulf. Petronet LNG is discussing whether Qatar can source part of its contracted volumes from US facilities from 2028, helping India diversify supplies, retain its partnership with Doha and reduce future supply risks.
Railways adds 9,638 wagons to contracts worth Rs 3,925 crore
Indian Railways is increasing its wagon procurement by 24.57% through additional orders from five suppliers. The incremental orders amount to approximately ₹3,925.41 crore and include 9,638 wagons. These wagons are intended for bulk commodities and will be supplied by June 2027. Suppliers involved in this contract include Titagarh Wagons, Jupiter Wagons, and Texmaco Rail & Engineering.
Two Trades for Today: A metals major for a 4.85% upmove, a large-cap natural gas supplier’s stock for a gain of 7%
Our technical analysts identify select stocks every trading day that may gain momentum even in volatile markets. Here are the technical calls for today.
US manufacturing picks up in October; input prices stay high
US manufacturing activity experienced growth in October due to solid domestic demand and increased business spending in AI. The manufacturing PMI rose to 55.5 from 54.5 in September, indicating ongoing growth in this sector. Domestic demand showed the strongest pace of growth in over five years during the third quarter. However, inflation remains a concern amidst supply challenges and high input prices.
PSU oil firms float tender to buy 150 mn litres of biodiesel at Rs 88/litre
Indian oil marketing companies are inviting bids for 150 million litres of biodiesel over a three-month period. The procurement will begin in November 2026 and aims to reduce dependence on imported crude oil. Supplies will be sourced from used cooking oil and other feedstocks, enhancing the domestic biodiesel market. Vendors must meet strict quality and delivery requirements throughout the procurement phase.
Andhra Pradesh beats Tamil Nadu to win Rs 1,614 crore investment from three Hyundai, Kia suppliers
Three South Korean automotive component manufacturers have committed to invest ₹1,614 crore in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. Hwashin, Seoyon, and Iwamet have signed MoUs with the state government for setting up facilities. The investments follow Andhra Pradesh's proactive efforts to attract global manufacturing investments. These projects are expected to create 1,418 jobs, enhancing the region's automotive manufacturing capabilities.
Sona Comstar expects annual investments to rise from Rs 500-600 cr as business grows: MD
Sona BLW Precision Forgings Ltd expects to increase its annual investments from Rs 500-600 crore as it grows. The company has introduced new products like helical slip differentials and radar sensors during the September quarter. Currently, India contributes roughly 50 percent of its business, which is projected to remain stable as they expand internationally. The company aims to diversify supply chains and enhance its design and manufacturing capabilities.
Tamil Nadu liquor prices to rise by Rs 10 from November 1 as TASMAC imposes new cess
Starting Sunday, TASMAC will introduce a Rs 10 environmental cess on all alcoholic beverage purchases. This change aims to fund social welfare and environmental projects administered by the state. Retail shops and licensed establishments are preparing for the updated pricing structure across Tamil Nadu. Suppliers have been instructed to apply precise QR-code price labeling for transparency.
Asia chip firms see strong AI demand; market jitters continue
Asian chip-supply-chain companies report a strong ongoing demand for AI-related products despite investor concerns. Foxconn Chairman Young Liu stated that AI is not in a bubble, underscoring clear demand for AI products. Tokyo Electron reported a significant forecast increase in operating profit due to robust demand for chipmaking equipment. SK Hynix announced plans to return about $75 billion to shareholders due to rising memory prices.
Out of Europe? India's steel MSMEs battle data gaps, rising cost and EU's carbon wall
Smaller Indian steel exporters say they are struggling to obtain emissions data from raw-material suppliers and bear the cost of carbon accounting and verification under the EU’s carbon border rules.
3 Warning Signs Your Supplier Is in Distress
Suppliers to multinational corporations are under growing pressure from tariffs, logistics disruptions, compliance demands, and repeated global shocks, yet many buyers still rely on conventional indicators—audits passed, orders filled, service levels met—that can obscure deeper distress. Supplier weakness often appears first not as outright failure but as a gradual retreat: range thinning, when suppliers stop investing in innovation and improvements; descaling, when they reduce capacity, defer upgrades, or lose resilience; and withdrawal, when they quietly stop bidding, decline complex work, or exit parts of the network. By assessing supplier health across innovation, investment, capability, service resilience, commercial participation, and network position, executives can detect early warning signs before a valued partner disappears. The right response depends on the stage of distress: protect innovation through cost-sharing and co-investment, protect capability through operational support and simpler governance, and protect optionality through targeted retention plans and stronger supplier voice mechanisms.
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