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38 minutes ago
The Jharkhand Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JRERA) has imposed penalties totalling INR 83.5 lakh on 77 builders for failing to submit mandatory quarterly progress reports and ignoring regulatory summons. The action, taken in the past week, forms part of an enforcement drive aimed at improving compliance and transparency in registered real estate projects across the state. Notices had initially been issued to 106 developers, with penalties calculated at INR 25,000 per delayed quarter. The authority has warned of further action, including freezing of bank accounts, in case of non-payment. The move comes amid wider compliance concerns, with more than half of the state's registered projects reportedly not filing required updates, highlighting gaps in regulatory adherence under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act framework.Read more
1 hour ago
The Delhi High Court has allowed authorities to proceed with a demolition drive in Shalimar Bagh to facilitate road widening, prioritising public infrastructure over private occupation claims. The order, issued in the past week, grants residents time until the end of May to vacate the affected area. The case relates to encroachments on public land earmarked for expansion of Road No. 320, with the court observing that improved connectivity and access for emergency services outweigh individual claims. The ruling follows a petition by occupants seeking protection from eviction. Authorities have been directed to carry out the process in a structured manner, with consideration for relocation timelines, while ensuring that the project proceeds without further obstruction.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has introduced a regulatory requirement mandating tree plantation as a precondition for granting layout plan approvals across residential, commercial and industrial developments. The rule, implemented earlier this month, requires developers and landowners to earmark space for plantation within submitted plans and undertake planting in proportion to project size. The policy also introduces refundable security deposits to ensure compliance, alongside documentation such as photographic evidence. The move is aimed at addressing declining green cover amid rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion in the city. Additional provisions cover plantation ratios for different land uses and requirements for green space allocation in institutional developments, forming part of a broader effort to integrate environmental considerations into urban planning approvals.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Asian stock markets traded higher, tracking gains on Wall Street, as optimism grew over possible US-Iran talks to ease West Asia tensions. Key indices in Japan, South Korea, China and Hong Kong posted gains, reflecting improved investor sentiment. Oil prices declined after recent spikes, with Brent crude falling below USD 100 per barrel amid hopes of reduced supply risks. However, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to raise concerns around energy costs and inflation. Gold and silver prices edged higher, while the US dollar weakened slightly. Overall, markets remain sensitive to geopolitical developments and global economic signals.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale will launch its new Ranje Vision Park near Pune on April 16, inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis. Spread across 25 acres with an investment of around INR 250 crore, the facility includes advanced production units for sweets and savouries with a capacity of 40 tonnes per day. Built to global food safety standards, the plant also features customer viewing galleries showcasing automated processes. The expansion supports the brand's growth in domestic and international markets, with plans to scale its retail presence from 1.25 lakh to 5 lakh touchpoints over the next three years.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Poonawalla Fincorp has raised INR 2,500 crore through a Qualified Institutions Placement (QIP) to expand its lending business and strengthen its asset base. The issue saw strong participation from domestic and foreign institutional investors, reflecting confidence in the company's growth strategy. Shares were allotted at INR 370.75 each, a 5% discount to the floor price, with the QIP open from April 9 to April 13. The funds will be used to scale lending operations across key segments. Backed by the Cyrus Poonawalla Group, the NBFC manages assets worth INR 55,017 crore and aims to drive its next phase of growth.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The global luxury watch industry is facing uncertainty as geopolitical tensions and economic pressures impact demand, coinciding with the Watches and Wonders event in Geneva. Rising raw material costs, supply chain disruptions and tariffs are affecting production and trade. Exports are expected to decline, while reduced tourist inflows have impacted retail sales in key markets like Dubai. Despite stable domestic demand in some regions, inflation concerns and currency strength continue to weigh on growth. Leading brands still dominate the market, with premium watches gaining share. As the sector navigates these challenges, the Geneva fair remains a key platform for industry launches and partnerships.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Godrej Industries Group has outlined a leadership transition plan under which its chairperson, Nadir Godrej, will retire in August and take on the role of chairman emeritus after nearly five decades with the organisation. Pirojsha Godrej, currently leading Godrej Properties, will assume the role of chairperson across the group and Godrej Industries Ltd. The transition also includes board-level changes across key listed entities such as Godrej Properties, Godrej Agrovet, and Godrej Consumer Products. Additional appointments include Burjis Godrej taking charge of the agriculture business and Vishal Sharma being named chairperson of Astec LifeSciences. The restructuring reflects a broader generational shift within the group's leadership.Read more
14 Apr 2026
360 ONE Asset has secured INR 2,000 crore in commitments for its Private Investment in Public Equity (PIPE) strategy, reflecting strong investor confidence. The strategy targets listed and late-stage companies, combining private capital flexibility with public market liquidity. It aims to support businesses during key growth phases, including expansion, governance improvement, and balance sheet strengthening. Investments will be made through block deals and anchor placements, with a focus on fundamentals and active engagement. The PIPE route offers companies a faster, more flexible fundraising option compared to IPOs, while giving investors access to structured opportunities, better information flow, and potential medium- to long-term returns.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) is preparing to introduce an artificial intelligence-based system to modernise real estate approval processes and reduce administrative delays. The initiative, outlined recently, aims to automate key stages of project clearances, minimise manual intervention and improve transparency in decision-making. The proposed framework will use data-driven tools to expedite compliance checks and standardise approval procedures, addressing long-standing concerns over delays in construction permissions. The move forms part of Mumbai's broader push towards digital governance and ease of doing business in the real estate sector. By improving turnaround times and procedural clarity, the system is expected to support developers, enhance regulatory efficiency and strengthen the city's investment environment.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Escalating conflict in West Asia could push up to 2.5 million Indians into poverty and impact economic stability, according to a UNDP report. Rising fuel prices, higher freight costs and supply disruptions are reducing purchasing power, increasing food insecurity and straining public finances. India's strong dependence on the region for oil, fertilisers and trade makes it vulnerable to these shocks. Export delays, rising input costs and risks to the Kharif season may affect businesses and agriculture. Remittances from Gulf countries could also slow, impacting incomes, while job risks rise across key sectors, highlighting growing pressure on supply chains and economic resilience.Read more
14 Apr 2026
National Healthcare Properties has outlined plans to achieve a valuation of approximately USD 1.1 billion through its proposed initial public offering in the United States, aiming to raise up to USD 616 million by offering 38.5 million shares. The New York-based real estate investment trust focuses on senior housing and outpatient medical assets and seeks to capitalise on demand driven by an ageing population. The offering follows recent activity in the healthcare REIT segment, where investor appetite has strengthened amid market volatility. The company's portfolio spans 37 senior housing communities and 130 outpatient facilities, positioning it within a sector increasingly viewed as defensive within global real estate markets.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Delhi-Dehradun economic corridor, a 213-km six-lane access-controlled expressway built at a cost exceeding INR 12,000 crore, is set to be inaugurated, significantly reducing travel time between the two cities from over six hours to about two and a half hours. Spanning Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, the project includes advanced traffic systems and multiple interchanges to improve connectivity. It also incorporates extensive wildlife mitigation features, including a 12-km elevated corridor and animal passages, reflecting a focus on balancing infrastructure development with ecological considerations. The project is expected to support regional economic activity, tourism, and trade across northern India.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Qlik has partnered with ServiceNow to help enterprises integrate data insights into workflows and AI-driven processes, aiming to improve decision-making and efficiency. The collaboration enables businesses to combine data from multiple systems such as ERP, CRM and supply chains to gain a unified operational view. By connecting analytics with workflows, companies can identify patterns, respond faster and make informed decisions in real time. The integration also supports growing demand for AI solutions within existing business environments. As organisations expand AI adoption, the partnership highlights the importance of linking data, insights and actions to drive smarter enterprise operations.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Existing home sales in the United States declined to a nine-month low in March, falling 3.6% to an annualised rate of 3.98 million units, according to industry data. The slowdown reflects persistent supply shortages, elevated mortgage rates, and concerns around labour market conditions. Despite a modest rise in housing inventory to 1.36 million units, levels remain below historical norms. Median home prices increased to USD 408,800, marking a year-on-year rise, while affordability weakened. Market conditions have also been influenced by geopolitical tensions, which have pushed up borrowing costs. The data indicates a cautious outlook for residential transactions, with growth projections for the year revised downwards.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Puravankara Ltd has reported a sharp increase in residential sales bookings, with pre-sales rising nearly threefold year-on-year to INR 3,547 crore in the final quarter of the last financial year. The Bengaluru-based developer also recorded a 55% increase in annual sales bookings to INR 7,407 crore. The performance reflects continued demand for housing across key urban markets. The company maintains a substantial development pipeline, with ongoing projects spanning 34 million sq ft and a land bank of 38 million sq ft across multiple cities. It noted that global uncertainties have had limited impact on the domestic residential segment so far, with potential effects linked to energy price movements.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) has expanded its presence in Gujarat with the opening of a 93-key Gateway Kandla in Gandhidham, catering to business and leisure demand linked to port-led economic activity. Separately, IHG Hotels & Resorts has entered into a management agreement with NCPL to develop a 100-key Holiday Inn in Panaji, Goa, scheduled for completion in the early part of the next decade. The developments reflect continued investment in India's hospitality sector across industrial and leisure-driven locations, with operators targeting growing demand from trade-linked travel and tourism markets.Read more
14 Apr 2026
India's Shapoorji Pallonji Group has approached investors to extend the maturity of debt raised by its real estate and civil engineering arm, Goswami Infratech, as refinancing plans face delays. The high-yield notes, with an outstanding value of approximately INR 83.43 billion, were due to mature at the end of the month. The group has been attempting to raise between USD 2.75 billion and USD 3.1 billion through a mix of dollar and rupee-denominated instruments. However, rising hedging costs linked to central bank actions and global market volatility have slowed execution. Additional caution among investors due to stress in the US private credit market has further affected timelines, with refinancing now expected to conclude in the coming months.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has implemented a nationwide shift to fully digital toll collection across national highways, effective from April 10, eliminating cash payments at toll plazas. Under the new framework, commuters must use FASTag or Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for toll transactions, with penalties imposed for non-compliance. Vehicles without FASTag are required to pay up to 1.25 times the standard toll fee through digital modes. The move applies to more than 1,100 toll plazas and is aimed at improving traffic flow, reducing congestion, and enhancing operational efficiency. The transition builds on India's electronic toll collection system and forms part of a broader push towards digitisation in transport infrastructure and revenue management.Read more
14 Apr 2026
RMZ Group has announced plans to invest over USD 35 billion over the next five years across data centres, artificial intelligence infrastructure, commercial developments, and residential projects, while also considering an initial public offering to secure long-term capital. The privately held real estate and infrastructure firm intends to allocate USD 12-15 billion towards building 1.5 gigawatts of co-location data centre capacity in India. The remaining capital will be directed towards office-led developments catering to global capability centres and a renewed residential push. The expansion aligns with increasing investments in digital infrastructure across India, where data generation significantly outpaces existing data centre capacity, highlighting a structural gap in supply.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed authorities to establish a structured and accessible affordable rental housing system in Mumbai, alongside a dedicated digital platform to streamline access for citizens. The directive, issued following a policy review meeting in the past week, responds to sustained migration into the city and the resulting pressure on rental housing supply. The proposed framework emphasises aligning demand and supply, ensuring legal compliance in tenancy agreements, and reducing disputes. Measures include appointing designated authorities under the Maharashtra Rent Control Act and strengthening institutional mechanisms for oversight. The move is positioned within the broader effort to address housing affordability challenges for working populations and migrants in India's financial capital.Read more
14 Apr 2026
State-owned NBCC Ltd has entered into two agreements with Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd (HUDCO), including one for the redevelopment of August Kranti Bhawan in Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi. The project covers a leasehold land parcel of 18,830 sq m, with NBCC responsible for feasibility assessment, construction, project management, and monetisation of built space. A separate agreement enables HUDCO to provide financial support for NBCC's ongoing and future projects under its self-sustainable model. The arrangement reflects continued collaboration between public sector entities in urban redevelopment and project financing within the national capital.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Mysuru Development Authority (MDA) has generated INR 156 crore through the auction of premium residential and commercial plots across multiple layouts in the city, reflecting sustained demand for plotted developments. The auction, concluded in the past week, saw 133 of 200 sites successfully sold, with strong participation across key micro-markets, particularly in west Mysuru. Pricing exceeded base values in several locations, indicating competitive bidding activity. While newly introduced layouts such as Vasanth Nagar recorded moderate uptake, select areas witnessed limited interest. The authority has mandated a short payment window for successful bidders, with provisions for forfeiture of deposits in case of non-compliance. The exercise forms part of MDA's broader land monetisation strategy aimed at generating revenue for infrastructure and urban development projects.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Enviro Infra Engineers has secured sewage infrastructure projects worth INR 972 crore in Maharashtra under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) 2.0, strengthening its presence in the urban wastewater segment. The contracts, awarded for multiple urban local bodies, involve development of sewage treatment plants (STPs), interception and diversion networks, and extensive sewer pipeline systems across Pune and Nashik regions. The projects will be executed on an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis within a 24-month timeline. The initiative is aimed at improving sanitation infrastructure and wastewater management in smaller and mid-sized urban centres, particularly those with populations below one lakh. The orders also expand the company's project pipeline and align with ongoing government efforts to enhance urban sanitation coverage across Maharashtra.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has proposed offering property tax rebates of up to 15% to encourage timely payments and improve compliance among property owners. The proposal, reviewed in the past week, is based on the previous year's response, where over 44% of taxpayers availed rebate schemes. The revised structure aims to incentivise early payments, with higher rebates applicable for payments made within the initial months of the financial cycle, followed by reduced benefits later in the year. The initiative also seeks to promote digital transactions while ensuring steady revenue inflows for civic operations. The move comes amid ongoing efforts by the civic body to strengthen its revenue base and address collection gaps, including significant outstanding dues from various entities.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) has acquired a 51% controlling stake in Sri Lanka-based Colombo Dockyard PLC for INR 249.5 crore, marking its first international acquisition. The transaction, completed following a mandatory offer to shareholders, increases MDL's holding from around 41.73% to majority control. The Colombo-based facility is a key shipbuilding and repair yard in the region, and the acquisition enables MDL to expand its operational footprint beyond India. The deal forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen presence in the global shipbuilding and maritime services sector. It also follows earlier equity infusions and share purchases from existing stakeholders, including Japan's Onomichi Dockyard, culminating in the transfer of controlling interest.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) has granted conditional approval to the Rajasthan Financial Corporation (RFC) to sell properties allotted across multiple industrial areas in the state. The decision, taken in the past week, allows RFC to monetise assets located in key industrial hubs including Kota, Alwar and Bhiwadi, subject to regulatory compliance. While plots allotted at prevailing rates can be sold without additional conditions, those allocated at concessional rates require repayment of the concession amount with interest. The approval mandates that land use must remain aligned with original allotment purposes, ensuring continuity of industrial planning norms. The move is expected to unlock underutilised assets and facilitate redevelopment within established industrial zones.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) has launched an e-auction to allot 24 industrial plots across multiple sectors, aiming to strengthen industrial development and attract investment in the region. The offering, announced in the past week, includes plots of varying sizes located in sectors such as Ecotech and Udyog Kendra. The allotment will follow a competitive bidding process, with a stipulated application deadline and eligibility criteria for participating firms. The move is part of GNIDA's ongoing efforts to enhance industrial land utilisation and support manufacturing and allied activities. The initiative is expected to generate revenue for the authority while facilitating new industrial units and employment opportunities.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Google has obtained a power distribution (discom) licence for its proposed 1 GW hyperscale data centre hub in Visakhapatnam, marking a key regulatory milestone for the USD 15 billion (approx. INR 1.25 lakh crore) investment. Approved by the Andhra Pradesh cabinet in the past week, the licence allows the company to directly procure and distribute electricity for its operations, a first for a private entity in the state. The project, spread across multiple sites in Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts, is positioned as India's largest single foreign direct investment. Construction is expected to commence later this month. The move is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted power supply, improving cost efficiencies, and enabling integration of renewable energy sources for large-scale data infrastructure.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Jammu & Kashmir government reported that tourism development authorities (TDAs) issued 415 building permissions in the 2025-26 financial year, exceeding the combined total of the previous two years. Official data indicated that 807 permits were granted between 2023 and 2026 across the Union Territory. The approvals span residential, commercial, and hospitality developments, reflecting rising tourism-linked construction activity. Simultaneously, authorities identified over 500 unauthorised structures across key tourist destinations and initiated enforcement measures including notices, penalties, sealing, and demolitions. The Tourism Department has also expanded homestay registrations to 2,613 units, strengthening accommodation capacity while introducing GIS-based monitoring systems to regulate development and improve oversight across major tourist regions.Read more
14 Apr 2026
A Beijing court has directed the bankruptcy liquidation of Zhongzhi Enterprise Group and 316 affiliated entities, consolidating their assets and liabilities into a single pool as part of insolvency proceedings. Creditors have been asked to submit claims by early June through the appointed administrator. The move follows Zhongzhi's earlier bankruptcy filing amid mounting stress linked to China's property sector downturn. The group, once a significant participant in the country's shadow banking system, had notable exposure to real estate financing. The development underscores the continued spillover of property sector distress into broader financial markets, raising concerns around systemic risk and investor exposure in China's alternative lending ecosystem.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Supreme Court has directed Heera Group chief Nowhera Shaik to surrender before authorities within a stipulated period, while making any future consideration of bail contingent upon her cooperation in executing pending property sale deeds. The order, issued in the past week, forms part of ongoing proceedings in a large-scale investor fraud case involving alleged collections exceeding INR 10,000 crore. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) informed the court that several sale deeds linked to auctioned properties remain unexecuted despite receipt of full consideration. The court also outlined a timeline for completion of these transactions, with provisions for intervention by court authorities in case of non-compliance. The matter relates to recovery efforts for investors affected by the alleged scheme and enforcement of property disposals tied to attached assets.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Nimbus Projects recorded a 77% year-on-year increase in sales bookings to INR 281.24 crore in the March quarter of the last financial year, indicating improved demand across its key markets. However, its full-year performance showed a decline, with total pre-sales at INR 545 crore compared to INR 653 crore in the previous year. The Noida-based developer attributed the quarterly growth to sustained homebuyer confidence and steady demand, supported by execution and sales strategies. With a portfolio spanning residential and commercial developments in Noida and Greater Noida, the company continues to focus on converting bookings into collections to strengthen cash flows amid evolving market conditions.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Reserve Bank of India is reviewing how major banks unwound large rupee arbitrage positions after directing trades worth up to USD 40 billion to be reversed to support the currency. The move followed pressure on the rupee due to global tensions and foreign fund outflows. The RBI is examining whether banks shifted positions to corporate clients during the process, potentially affecting its efforts to improve dollar liquidity. The review also focuses on compliance with rules restricting speculative forex activity. The development signals tighter oversight of currency markets as the central bank works to manage volatility and stabilise the rupee.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Robb Report India, in collaboration with the Gwalior royal family, hosted Palace Prive, an exclusive luxury experience at Jai Vilas Palace. The invite-only event brought together select guests for a curated programme centred on heritage, craftsmanship and hospitality. The experience included palace tours, cultural performances and dining inspired by royal traditions. Regional artisans showcased traditional crafts such as Chanderi textiles and lac work. Supported by leading luxury brands, the event saw participation from film, design and business communities. The initiative highlighted the blend of heritage and modern luxury while promoting local craftsmanship through curated experiential formats.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Global finance leaders are meeting at the IMF and World Bank spring sessions amid rising concerns over the economic impact of the Middle East conflict. The institutions are expected to lower global growth forecasts and raise inflation estimates, with emerging economies facing the greatest pressure. Growth projections for developing markets have already been revised downward, while inflation is set to rise further under prolonged disruption. The crisis could also increase food insecurity and strain global supply chains. With high debt levels and limited fiscal space, countries may require significant financial support as policymakers focus on stabilising economies and managing inflation risks.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Rajasthan is facing a major transmission bottleneck, with around 60 GW of renewable energy projects awaiting grid connectivity. The issue highlights a gap between rapid solar and wind capacity expansion and the development of transmission infrastructure. While the state has strong renewable potential and high project interest, grid systems have been planned for only part of the capacity. The regulator has asked developers to be informed of delays, allowing them to reconsider investments. The situation underscores challenges in India's clean energy push, with infrastructure constraints likely to impact project timelines and future investment decisions in the sector.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The United States has announced a blockade on vessels linked to Iran, restricting shipping to and from its ports and potentially removing nearly two million barrels of oil per day from global supply. The move follows failed US-Iran talks and rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. While transit for non-Iranian shipments will continue, overall traffic in the region remains severely disrupted. Iran has warned of strong retaliation, raising risks for Gulf infrastructure and shipping routes. The development could impact major importers, including India and China, and adds pressure to global oil markets already facing supply constraints and price volatility.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Etihad Airways has announced plans to expand its China network by adding five new routes, increasing connectivity between the UAE and key Chinese cities. The airline will operate services to Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou and Shenzhen, adding 28 weekly flights using Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The expansion aims to strengthen its partnership with China Eastern Airlines and support cargo operations across major trade hubs. Despite ongoing regional disruptions affecting air travel, the move reflects Etihad's focus on long-term growth and international connectivity in key global markets.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Piper Serica has invested nearly INR 210 crore across 33 startups through its Category I AIF, with the remaining INR 63 crore set to be deployed in the coming months. The SEBI-registered fund focuses on early-stage, technology-driven companies in sectors such as deeptech, fintech, artificial intelligence, defence, and semiconductors. Its portfolio includes startups like Alt Mobility and Sensesemi, reflecting a strong focus on innovation-led businesses. The firm follows a sector-focused strategy, backing founders building intellectual property and addressing structural market gaps, as India shifts towards capability-driven growth across emerging industries.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Sales at major European luxury brands have declined sharply in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as the Iran conflict disrupts a key growth market. Retail sales dropped significantly across leading malls, with Dubai witnessing steep declines in both footfall and transactions, while Abu Dhabi saw a more moderate impact. The Middle East, a fast-growing luxury hub, has been affected by weaker consumer sentiment, travel disruptions and regional instability. The slowdown comes as global luxury firms prepare to report earnings, raising concerns over profitability. The situation highlights the sector's sensitivity to geopolitical risks despite the region's importance to global luxury demand.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Aster DM Healthcare has announced an investment of INR 96 crore to expand its women and children's facility at Aster Whitefield Hospital in Bengaluru. The expansion will increase bed capacity from 380 to 539, enhancing specialised maternal and paediatric care services. The move comes amid rising demand for integrated healthcare in urban centres. As part of its broader growth strategy, Aster is also developing new hospitals in Yeshwantpur and Sarjapur. The expansion is expected to strengthen its presence in Karnataka, with total capacity set to reach 2,573 beds, highlighting continued growth in healthcare infrastructure and real estate.Read more
14 Apr 2026
At least 30 people were killed in a stampede at Haiti's Laferrire Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, during annual celebrations. The incident occurred near the entrance as large crowds, including many students, gathered at the historic fortress. Heavy rainfall is believed to have worsened the situation, contributing to panic and congestion. Authorities have warned that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue. Officials have not yet released details of the victims. The tragedy highlights ongoing safety and infrastructure challenges in Haiti, which has faced multiple crises in recent years, including natural disasters and security concerns.Read more
14 Apr 2026
UK homebuilder Vistry has appointed Adam Daniels as its new CEO with immediate effect, replacing Greg Fitzgerald, who stepped down after nine years. The leadership change comes as the company faces margin pressure and weak housing demand. Shares fell following the announcement, reflecting investor concerns. Vistry has warned that rising costs, planning delays and subdued demand will impact profitability through 2026. Daniels, a long-time executive, brings extensive industry experience. The company will continue to focus on cash generation, increasing open market sales and reducing inventory, as the broader UK housing sector remains under pressure.Read more
14 Apr 2026
The Government of India has increased windfall taxes on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) exports to manage domestic supply amid rising global oil prices. The levy on diesel exports has been raised to INR 55.5 per litre, while ATF exports now attract INR 42 per litre. The move follows crude prices crossing USD 100 per barrel due to supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The government has also capped monthly ATF price increases for domestic airlines to control airfares. The decision highlights efforts to balance exports with domestic fuel availability during ongoing global energy volatility.Read more
14 Apr 2026
India has granted a one-time exemption for four vessels carrying Iranian crude to dock at Gujarat's Sikka port, following a request from Reliance Industries. The move comes after the US temporarily eased sanctions on Iranian oil trade to stabilise global prices amid supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. India has not imported Iranian oil since 2019, making this a notable development. The permitted vessels, all older and under sanctions, have bypassed standard maritime requirements. The development reflects shifting global energy dynamics as India explores options to secure crude supplies while adhering to regulatory frameworks.Read more
14 Apr 2026
Business confidence among the UK's largest companies has fallen to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a Deloitte survey. CFO sentiment dropped sharply as concerns over rising energy prices, inflation and interest rates increased amid the Middle East conflict. Companies are responding by cutting costs, reducing hiring plans and scaling back investments. Inflation expectations have also risen, adding to business uncertainty. The hiring outlook remains weak, with a significant number of firms expecting lower recruitment. The findings reflect growing pressure on UK businesses as they navigate higher costs and an uncertain economic environment.Read more
13 Apr 2026
Cathay Pacific has announced temporary flight cuts due to rising jet fuel costs linked to Middle East tensions. The airline will cancel about 2 per cent of passenger flights between May 16 and June 30, while its low-cost arm HK Express will reduce operations by around 6 per cent from May 11. Services to Dubai and Riyadh will remain suspended during this period. The move comes as fuel prices stay elevated amid global supply concerns. Despite the short-term adjustments, Cathay Pacific plans to resume full operations after June and continue its expansion, supported by strong demand for international travel.Read more
13 Apr 2026
U.S. mortgage rates fell slightly to 6.51% for the 30-year fixed-rate loan, the first decrease since the Iran conflict began, but the shift has not significantly improved conditions for buyers dealing with high costs and expensive homes. Refinancing declined, and purchase applications remain below last year's levels. Rising Treasury yields and increased fuel costs have added to financial pressure. Housing affordability remains a political focus, with the Trump Administration preparing a major policy announcement, building on earlier proposals to limit institutional home purchases and boost mortgage-backed securities purchases to lower borrowing rates.Read more
13 Apr 2026
Barneys Hard Seltzer has raised fresh funding from The Chennai Angels as part of its Pre-Series A round, with participation from existing investors including Mumbai Angels and ah! Ventures. The funds will be used for operations, hiring, licensing, and expanding brand presence across India. Founded by Ruchi Gupta and Gaurav Sharma, the company operates in the fast-growing Ready-to-Drink (RTD) segment, offering zero-sugar and low-calorie beverages. As demand rises for wellness-focused products, Barneys is expanding its footprint in urban and emerging markets. The investment reflects growing interest in lifestyle-oriented beverage brands and India's evolving consumer preferences.Read more