Business

United Breweries CEO Vivek Gupta said the Indian beer industry is facing major challenges due to rising input costs, supply shortages and pricing restrictions, urging government support to sustain growth, manage costs and prevent supply disruptions in the sector

Akshaya Tritiya is expected to generate over Rs 20,000 crore in gold and silver trade despite rising prices, with consumer behaviour shifting towards lightweight jewellery and alternative investments, even as overall consumption volume shows a decline

Lenskart apologised after backlash over a grooming policy, issuing a new guide allowing religious symbols like bindi, hijab, and turban. Founder Peyush Bansal clarified the controversial document was outdated, reaffirming inclusivity and respect

The SEC and Gautam Adani, along with Sagar Adani, have jointly sought more time from a US court to file submissions in a securities case, proposing a revised schedule while continuing to contest allegations and pursuing dismissal

Gold prices may rise up to Rs 1.85 lakh amid favourable macroeconomic conditions, according to a report. Strong demand, central bank buying and global uncertainties continue to support the metal, making it an attractive investment this Akshaya Tritiya

ICICI Bank reported a 9 per cent rise in consolidated net profit for the March quarter, supported by growth in net interest income and lower provisions. The bank also announced a dividend of Rs 12 per share, subject to approvals

HDFC Bank reported an 8.04 per cent rise in consolidated net profit for the March quarter, driven by stable income and growth in advances. The bank also saw steady traction across retail and corporate segments despite a moderation in total income

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved two railway multitracking projects worth ₹24,815 crore in Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh, adding 601 km to the network. The upgrades aim to boost freight movement, industrial connectivity, and tourism across key routes

Meta is reportedly planning to lay off at least 10 per cent of its workforce next month, with further cuts likely in 2026. The move comes amid a global surge in tech layoffs driven by AI-led restructuring and post-pandemic corrections.

The Gujarat High Court dismissed the Asaram Ashram Trust appeal in a Motera land dispute, upholding government action to reclaim over 45,000 sq m citing violations, clearing the way for possession near Narendra Modi Stadium.

Indian equity markets ended higher on Friday, with Nifty and Sensex gaining amid cautious optimism ahead of US-Iran talks. Broader markets outperformed, while easing geopolitical tensions and sectoral gains supported investor sentiment despite ongoing global uncertainties

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh raids in Nashik against self-styled godman Ashok Kharat in a money laundering probe, seizing documents and digital evidence linked to alleged benami properties, financial fraud and exploitation allegations.

Gold prices have risen nearly 10 per cent in 2026 ahead of Akshaya Tritiya, driven by global uncertainty. Despite volatility and weak jewellery demand in India, long-term outlook remains positive, with investors increasingly shifting towards financial gold options like ETFs

A government panel supported by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board recommended removing excise duty on CNG and reducing GST on vehicles to boost adoption, supporting India’s goal of increasing natural gas share to 15% by 2030

Gautam Adani became Asia’s richest person, surpassing Mukesh Ambani in the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, as Adani Group stock gains boosted his net worth amid global market volatility in 2026

Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty traded higher in early deals on Friday, supported by easing geopolitical tensions, a ceasefire in West Asia and fresh foreign inflows, even as Asian markets remained cautious despite strong cues from US equities.

The rupee appreciated 28 paise to 92.86 against the US dollar in early trade, supported by easing geopolitical tensions, foreign fund inflows and positive domestic equities, though gains were capped by a firm dollar and global uncertainties.

The Reserve Bank of India has announced a Rs 2 lakh crore seven-day VRRR auction on April 17 to manage surplus liquidity in the banking system. The move comes ahead of GST-related outflows that typically tighten liquidity. Governor Shaktikanta Das reiterated the RBI’s proactive stance on liquidity management.

Fatih Birol warned Europe faces jet fuel shortages within weeks if the Strait of Hormuz closure continues, risking flight disruptions, rising prices, and wider global economic impact, especially for developing nations dependent on Middle East energy supplies.

Wipro reported a slight decline in fourth-quarter profit despite steady revenue growth and sequential gains. The company announced a share buyback and projected flat to negative growth for the next quarter, while focusing on AI-driven transformation and client partnerships

Narendra Modi and Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker pledged to strengthen India-Austria ties, focusing on innovation, trade, and sustainability. The leaders highlighted growing cooperation in emerging technologies, defence, and startups during Stocker’s first India visit in over four decades.

Christian Stocker praised India as a reliable global partner, highlighting its strong international influence. Alongside Narendra Modi, he stressed diplomacy, trade growth, and deeper cooperation in technology, security, and defence ties.

Benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended slightly lower after retreating from intra-day highs due to selling in banking and auto stocks. Investors remained cautious ahead of US-Iran talks, while broader markets outperformed and the rupee strengthened

Equity-oriented mutual funds recorded a 17.38 per cent rise in average AUM in March, led by strong inflows into flexi cap, mid cap and thematic funds. Investors showed a clear preference for flexible strategies amid evolving market conditions