Top Stories
4 featured
India and the European Union have concluded negotiations on a major Free Trade Agreement aimed at boosting trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The deal proposes phased tariff reductions on a wide range of goods, including select European imports, while improving market access for Indian exporters. Although not yet in force, the agreement is expected to support jobs, exports, and long-term growth in India. Its real impact will unfold gradually as implementation and ratification move forward.
Gold surged past $5,100 per ounce for the first time, reflecting rising global uncertainty and a rush toward safe assets. Silver and platinum also hit record levels, signalling broad investor anxiety. A weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions, and policy uncertainty are driving demand, while higher prices are already impacting households, jewelry costs, and import-dependent economies worldwide.
U.S. President Donald Trump says a “massive” naval force is moving toward the Persian Gulf as Washington “watches Iran closely,” after reports of harsh crackdowns and threats of executions. Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, framed the deployment as a deterrent and said he hopes it will not be used. Reports cite the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with destroyers shifting toward the region, amid Middle East volatility and market jitters. Officials have not detailed timelines or rules of engagement.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, U.S. President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss progress toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war and unveiled a new “Board of Peace” aimed at mediating global conflicts. The board’s initial focus is Gaza and Ukraine, drawing mixed reactions from world leaders and analysts alike.
China and U.S. Trade Chiefs to Restart High-Level Economic Dialogue
China and the United States announced plans to restart a high-level economic and trade dialogue to resolve ongoing tariff disputes and improve bilateral economic ties. Officials said discussions will focus on technology access, supply chain cooperation, and intellectual property protections. Markets reacted positively to the announcement.
World
9 storiesIndia and the European Union have concluded negotiations on a major Free Trade Agreement aimed at boosting trade, investment, and economic cooperation. The deal proposes phased tariff reductions on a wide range of goods, including select European imports, while improving market access for Indian exporters. Although not yet in force, the agreement is expected to support jobs, exports, and long-term growth in India. Its real impact will unfold gradually as implementation and ratification move forward.
Gold surged past $5,100 per ounce for the first time, reflecting rising global uncertainty and a rush toward safe assets. Silver and platinum also hit record levels, signalling broad investor anxiety. A weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions, and policy uncertainty are driving demand, while higher prices are already impacting households, jewelry costs, and import-dependent economies worldwide.
U.S. President Donald Trump says a “massive” naval force is moving toward the Persian Gulf as Washington “watches Iran closely,” after reports of harsh crackdowns and threats of executions. Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, framed the deployment as a deterrent and said he hopes it will not be used. Reports cite the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln with destroyers shifting toward the region, amid Middle East volatility and market jitters. Officials have not detailed timelines or rules of engagement.
China and the United States announced plans to restart a high-level economic and trade dialogue to resolve ongoing tariff disputes and improve bilateral economic ties. Officials said discussions will focus on technology access, supply chain cooperation, and intellectual property protections. Markets reacted positively to the announcement.
India
4 stories
Indian Railways has announced a major upgrade plan for its high-speed and semi-high-speed train network, including new routes and improved onboard facilities. The initiative aims to reduce travel time, improve passenger comfort, and enhance safety standards. Officials said implementation will begin in phases this year.
The Union Budget 2026 is expected to priorities income tax relief for the middle class amid rising living costs and inflation concerns. Government sources indicate possible revisions to tax slabs and standard deductions to boost disposable income and consumption. Analysts believe such measures could support demand-driven growth while maintaining fiscal balance.
ISRO has successfully conducted a key ground test of a new launch vehicle engine, marking progress in India’s next-generation space missions. The engine is designed to improve payload capacity and mission efficiency. Officials said the test strengthens India’s capabilities for future satellite launches and deep-space exploration.
The Supreme Court has sought a detailed response from the Centre on the implementation of India’s new digital privacy framework. The court raised concerns over data protection safeguards, user consent mechanisms, and enforcement clarity. The case could shape the future of digital governance, social media regulation, and citizen data rights in India.
