In principle, monetary policy is always ready to support growth, but not at the cost of price stability. The proposed GST rate slab transition changes should initially result in a fall in prices of most goods and services, Bhattacharya said in an email interview.

Bhattacharyya was appointed the RBI's executive director in March. He has nearly three decades of experience across areas such as monetary policy, fiscal policy, banking, and international economic relations. A postgraduate in economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, Bhattacharyya's research interests are primarily in the areas such as monetary theory and policy, financial markets, market microstructure and fiscal policy.

The GST Council is set to convene in Delhi on September 3-4 to deliberate on a simplified two-slab GST structure of 5% and 18%, alongside a 40% levy for sin goods. Discussions will also include exempting life insurance products and structural changes aimed at boosting consumption and aiding small businesses.

President Trump announced a deal where the U.S. would acquire a 10% stake in Intel, following a meeting with CEO Lip-Bu Tan. This move comes after Trump demanded Tan's resignation over ties to Chinese firms, resulting in a $10 billion investment. The federal backing aims to revive Intel's struggling foundry business amidst turnaround efforts.

Jerome Powell's recent speech at Jackson Hole hinted at potential adjustments to monetary policy, sparking market optimism for interest rate cuts. However, the speech balanced concerns about both labor market wobbles and persistent inflation. The Fed faces a tricky task navigating its dual mandate amid economic uncertainties and external pressures, suggesting a cautious approach to future policy easing.

The dollar weakened following Jerome Powell's suggestion of a potential rate cut. The euro and other currencies strengthened against the dollar. Market participants are now anticipating further easing by the Federal Reserve. Traders increased bets on a September rate cut. Concerns about Fed independence also weighed on the dollar. Bitcoin saw gains amidst the currency movements.

Suneetha Reddy, promoter of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, sold stake worth Rs 1,489 crore. The sale received positive response from foreign and domestic investors. Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and T. Rowe Price were among the buyers. Kotak Mahindra Life Insurance and Axis Mutual Fund also purchased shares. Apollo Hospitals reported a net profit of Rs 433 crore in Q1.

Rate-sensitive stocks rallied on Friday after U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hinted that an interest-rate cut could be on the table in September, citing a shifting balance of risks.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Friday pointed to a possible interest rate cut at the U.S. central bank's meeting next month, but stopped short of committing to it, in remarks acknowledging both the growing risks to the job market and ongoing threat of higher inflation.

The 56th GST Council meeting is scheduled for September 3 and 4, 2025, in New Delhi, commencing at 11 am each day. Prior to the Council meeting, an officers' meeting will take place on September 2 in New Delhi. The agenda and venue details for both meetings will be communicated to members subsequently, inviting their participation in the deliberations.

US stocks extended gains Friday after Fed Chair Jerome Powell hinted at a possible September rate cut during his Jackson Hole speech, citing job market risks. Dow surged 870 points, S&P 500 rose 1.6%, Nasdaq led gains.

India's markets regulator on Friday proposed changes to the country's block deal framework, including raising the minimum order size for such trades.

India's National Stock Exchange (NSE) said on Friday it will add hospital-chain operator Max Healthcare and Indigo-parent InterGlobe Aviation to its benchmark Nifty 50 index effective September 30.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized that India's trade negotiations prioritize national interest and industry needs. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the EU and plans for more trade agreements, while also addressing concerns about the ASEAN FTA's impact on domestic industries. Goyal underscored India's economic resilience and proactive approach to trade, aiming for fairness and transparency.

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Friday opened the door ever so slightly to lowering a key interest rate in the coming months but gave no hint on the timing of a move and suggested the central bank will proceed cautiously as it continues to evaluate the impact of tariffs and other policies on the economy.

Nodding toward significant changes in the economic landscape over the last five years, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Friday announced an updated operating framework for the U.S. central bank that reflects the return of higher inflation pressures and reduced prospect of near zero short-term interest rates.

India's markets regulator plans to propose additional financial incentives for distributors and fund houses to enroll first-time women investors, its chairperson said on Friday, in its latest bid to increase penetration of mutual fund products.

MPC members acknowledged the possibility of rate cuts but paused due to transmission lags, trade uncertainties, and food inflation concerns. Despite a reduced inflation forecast, downside risks remain, especially with CPI basket revisions. US tariffs pose a threat to job creation and MSMEs, necessitating market diversification and government support for exporters.

Wall Street indexes rebounded on Friday as investors awaited Jerome Powell's Jackson Hole speech for interest-rate clues. Anticipation of potential rate cuts in September influenced market activity, though expectations have slightly decreased. Gains were broad-based across sectors, while individual stocks reacted to company-specific news, including deals and earnings forecasts.

US Federal Reserve chief Jerome Powell is expected to walk a fine line while delivering a closely watched speech at a central banking conference on Friday, as he faces down attacks from President Donald Trump alongside mixed economic data.

The Income-tax Act, 2025, has been formally notified by the government. President gave his assent on August 21, 2025. The Ministry of Law and Justice issued a gazette notification. The new law extends to the entire country. It will be effective from April 1, 2026. This Act replaces the Income-tax Act, 1961. Parliament passed the Act earlier this year.

Sebi issued an advisory cautioning investors against fraudulent claims on social media, WhatsApp, and Telegram about stock market access via FPIs or FIIs. The regulator urged verifying registrations and using only Sebi-approved intermediaries for safe investments.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has urged tea, coffee, and rubber sectors to leverage Free Trade Agreements. This is to enhance exports. He emphasized market diversification and value-added products. Goyal directed plantation boards to promote GI products with 'India' in their logo. He also suggested a common incubation center to foster research and startups.

Minutes from the MPC meeting revealed discussions about potential rate cuts, but concerns over transmission, trade tariffs, and food inflation led to a pause. External MPC member Saugata Bhattacharya emphasized the neutral stance preserves options, with decisions based on incoming data.

Indian markets snapped a six-day winning streak as Sensex fell 694 points and Nifty slipped 214. Banks, FMCG, and IT dragged indices, while select smallcaps like Consolidated Construction and Netweb Technologies saw sharp gains.

Sensex dropped 693 points to 81,306 on Friday, but five BSE Midcap stocks One97 Communications, UNO Minda, Cummins India, Aditya Birla Capital, and L&T Finance touched fresh 52-week highs, signaling strong individual stock momentum.

Vikran Engineerings IPO, priced at Rs 9297 per share, opens on August 26 and closes on August 29. The Rs 772 crore issue includes a fresh issue and OFS. With strong EPC presence, robust order book, and government clients, the company plans to fund working capital and corporate needs.

Indias economy is balancing global trade headwinds with steady growth prospects, according to Christoph Schweizer, CEO of Boston Consulting Group. Speaking at the Economic Times World Leadership Forum, he said Indian CEOs remain calm on tariff pressures and quick to adapt to change. While textiles face stress, he underlined Indias strong trading position worldwide.

India's foreign exchange reserves experienced fluctuations in August 2025. After a significant drop of $9.32 billion in the week ending August 1, reserves rebounded with a $4.74 billion increase in the following week. Continuing this trend, the reserves further rose by $1.48 billion, reaching $695.10 billion in the week ending August 15.

Satin Creditcare Network raised Rs 100 crore through non-convertible debentures in two tranches to strengthen its asset-liability position, bolster CRAR, and expand lending in income-generating and WASH-focused loans for clients.

NITI Aayog suggests financial support and easier rules for homestays. This aims to help states create better tourism. India relies on tourism for jobs and economic progress. The plan includes simpler registration and digital operations. It seeks to address the shortage of hotel rooms. Homestays offer a cheaper way to increase accommodation capacity.

Nine midcap stocks saw rising insurance shareholding in Q1FY26, signaling growing confidence among institutional investors. The trend reflects positive market sentiment and a strategic shift toward long-term equity investments in fundamentally strong midcaps.

Morgan Stanley's Chetan Ahya anticipates India's economic recovery by late 2025, driven by government initiatives and RBI rate cuts. While GST rationalization may ease inflation, managing low inflation remains a key focus. The RBI is expected to cut rates further, while the Fed's decision hinges on upcoming jobs data, influencing global financial flows.

Reserve Bank of India's central board convened a meeting. The board evaluated the global and domestic economic conditions. Geopolitical and financial market developments were assessed. Challenges associated with these developments were also discussed. The board reviewed select central office departments. It approved Indranil Bhattacharyya's nomination to the Monetary Policy Committee.

The Indian rupee weakened further on Friday against a stronger dollar ahead of a speech by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, capping a volatile week for the Asian currency that has been pressured by U.S. tariff-related uncertainties.

Vodafone Idea shares jumped 9.3% after reports of a potential government relief package for AGR dues. The proposed measures include extended moratoriums, flexible repayment terms, and possible waivers on penalties. With Rs 83,400 crore in AGR liabilities, the company seeks funding support for financial stability.

To bolster agricultural exports, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) will establish three new regional offices in Patna, Dehradun, and Raipur. These offices will aid agri-exporters by facilitating shipments and expanding APEDA's reach. Currently headquartered in Delhi, APEDA operates 16 regional offices across India, focusing on export development, exporter registration, standardization, packaging enhancement, and marketing initiatives.

WestBridge Capital will invest 450 crore for a 15% stake in Edelweiss Mutual Fund, valuing it at about 3,000 crore. The deal, subject to regulatory approvals, aims to fuel growth as Edelweiss MFs AUM hit 1.52 lakh crore with strong profit momentum.

SEBI raided finfluencer Avadhut Sathes Karjat-based trading academy on August 20, seizing devices and data amid allegations of penny stock promotion. The action is part of SEBIs broader crackdown on unregistered market educators.

Rajiv Batra addresses global investors' concerns about India's growth and policy, emphasizing the need for double-digit earnings and nominal GDP growth to reignite foreign investor interest. He suggests profit-taking in pharma due to US generic concerns and underwhelming earnings. Batra remains positive on financials and monitors the Jackson Hole Symposium for its impact on rate cuts.

British two-year government bond yields - which are sensitive to speculation about Bank of England interest rates - rose to their highest level in more than two months on Friday.

CA Rudramurthy BV of Vachana Investments remains optimistic about the market, suggesting a uy on every dip strategy. He highlights the positive impact of the GST initiative and potential RBI rate cuts. While acknowledging geopolitical tensions and other external factors, he anticipates the market reaching all-time highs if these issues subside and earnings improve.

Japanese 30-year government bond yields climbed to a fresh all-time peak on Friday, tracking a rise in U.S. Treasury yields as investors braced for a speech by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at the U.S. central bank's Jackson Hole symposium.

European shares edged lower on Friday as cautious traders awaited Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's speech for clues on the policy outlook.

Rahul Shah of MOFSL suggests a stock-specific market approach, highlighting cement, banks, and metals as promising sectors. He anticipates continued growth in these areas, driven by domestic demand and government initiatives. While global events may cause volatility, strong domestic macros and earnings momentum are expected to support market resilience, with key focus on sectors like power, consumption, and retail finance.

An Indian market regulator panel has suggested capping intraday equity index derivatives net positions at 15 billion rupees, prompted by concerns over manipulative trading strategies and retail investor losses. This recommendation, aimed at curbing excessive intraday trading, follows a previous proposal and seeks to clarify monitoring thresholds for stock exchanges.

European bonds remained stable as investors anticipated Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's address. Traders sought insights into the U.S. central bank's future monetary policy. The German 10-year bond yield remained steady. The market is closely watching for potential rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in September. Changes in U.S. rate expectations often impact global bond markets.

UBS Securities picked Ambuja Cement, UltraTech, and Dalmia Bharat as top buys, citing demand recovery, lower costs, and reforms. Despite Q1 volumes missing estimates with just 3% growth, UBS expects strong EBITDA in Q2 and maintains a 78% FY26 growth outlook.

Morgan Stanley Asia (Singapore) has invested Rs 26.3 crore in Goldiam International as part of a Rs 202 crore QIP to fuel the expansion of its lab-grown diamond brand ORIGEM. Goldiam, which has delivered 188% returns in two years, plans to open 7090 stores in India within 1824 months to capture the fast-growing LGD retail market.

Ahead of Jerome Powell's speech at the Jackson Hole symposium, MCX gold futures dipped by Rs 200 to Rs 99,235 per 10 grams, while silver fell to Rs 1,13,515 per kg. Market participants anticipate Powell's address will provide clarity on future monetary policy.