India has committed nearly Rs 62,900 crore out of the Rs 65,000 crore earmarked for semiconductor manufacturing incentives, according to Electronics and IT Secretary S Krishnan. This leaves limited funding for only a few smaller projects under the 76,000 crore India Semiconductor Mission.

Sebi chairman Tuhin Kanta Pandey has alerted mutual funds about rising operational risks like fraudulent redemptions, urging vigilance and swift action. Sebi is planning incentives for first-time female investors and those in B30 cities to boost financial inclusion. The regulator is also reviewing scheme categorization for clarity and simplifying regulations to ease compliance while protecting investor interests.

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is rapidly developing infrastructure policies and essential elements for critical communication, according to Chairman A K Lahoti. Trai has recommended strengthening critical communication infrastructure to the government, including a pan-India Integrated Broadband PPDR network. Additionally, 10 MHz of paired spectrum in 700 MHz has been recommended for railway safety.

The GST Council is set to meet on September 3rd to discuss proposed GST rate rationalization. A Group of Ministers has endorsed a simplified structure with 5% and 18% slabs, potentially eliminating the 12% and 28% brackets.

Naukri's report indicates a strong white-collar job market in India for the latter half of 2025, with 72% of employers planning workforce expansion through new job creation. Hiring sentiment remains positive, with 94% of employers intending to recruit.

US stocks experienced a slight increase as investors eagerly awaited Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell's address at the Jackson Hole symposium. Treasury yields eased in anticipation of Powell's speech, while individual stocks like Ross Stores and Nio saw gains. Nvidia shares declined amid valuation concerns and discussions about a new GPU for China.

SEBI has issued a warning to investors regarding fraudulent trading schemes promoted on social media and mobile apps. These schemes falsely promise stock market access through FPIs, which is illegal for resident Indians except under specific regulations. Investors are urged to verify entity registration and use only genuine trading apps from SEBI-registered intermediaries.

India's foreign exchange reserves experienced a rise of $1.488 billion, reaching $695.106 billion during the week ending August 15, according to RBI data. This increase was primarily driven by a surge in foreign currency assets, while gold reserves saw a slight dip. These reserves act as a crucial buffer against external economic vulnerabilities.

Nvidia's CEO, Jensen Huang, is in discussions with the Trump administration regarding a potential new semiconductor for China, despite existing restrictions on advanced chip sales. The proposed B30A GPU, intended for AI data centers, would be a follow-up to the H20 but requires US government approval.

During its 618th meeting in Lucknow, the RBI's central board assessed the global and domestic economic situation, considering geopolitical risks and financial market trends. The board reviewed the performance of key departments, committees, and the Ombudsman Scheme. Indranil Bhattacharyya, Executive Director, was approved as an ex officio member of the Monetary Policy Committee.

The Asian Development Bank has approved a $410 million package for Pakistan's Reko Diq copper and gold mine project. This initiative aims to tap into one of the world's largest undeveloped reserves, potentially making Pakistan the fifth-largest copper source by 2028.

A recent HSBC report indicates that US corporations are increasingly adopting AI to offset the financial strain caused by tariffs. Analysis of S&P 500 companies reveals median cost reductions of 1.5% and productivity gains averaging 24%. AI adoption is viewed as a strategic move to modernize operations and mitigate external economic shocks, similar to changes seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bajaj Auto has ensured a sufficient supply of rare earth magnets and other crucial materials, securing production for the festive season. Demand for their Chetak electric scooter remains strong, with deliveries now underway as supplies normalize.

Jackie and Ayesha Shroff's strategic investment in Sony Entertainment Television's Indian launch proved to be a game-changing financial move. This early bet, made two decades ago, yielded substantial returns, becoming their most profitable venture. The couple's 15-year stake in Sony provided not only financial success but also invaluable insights into corporate dealmaking, shaping their future business decisions.

To achieve Viksit Bharat objectives and regulatory reforms, the government has formed two high-level committees led by Rajiv Gauba. One committee focuses on Viksit Bharat goals, while the other addresses non-financial sector regulations. These committees, including secretaries and industry leaders, will collaborate with ministerial groups led by Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, following the Prime Minister's call for next-generation reforms.

India's private sector soared to record levels in August, with the Composite PMI reaching 65.2, fueled by surging order volumes. The services sector led the charge, hitting an all-time high, while manufacturing also showed strong growth. Increased international orders and robust employment growth contributed to the positive outlook, despite rising inflation pressures and businesses remain optimistic about future market conditions.

China is easing urea export restrictions, allocating 7 million tonnes more for export. India is expected to be a major recipient. This follows earlier allocations and discussions on trade arrangements including rare earth magnets and fertilizers.

Since early 2022, India's Russian oil purchases have reached 132 billion, constituting 20% of Russia's oil export earnings. While China leads in overall fossil fuel imports from Russia, India's oil imports surpassed those of the EU and Turkiye. The US has criticized India's Russian oil trade, imposing tariffs, which India contests, vowing to continue procurement.

India's economic growth is projected to average 6.7% in the first quarter of FY26, fueled by government spending and a resilient services sector. While economists anticipate a slight moderation from the previous quarter due to weaker industrial activity, strong domestic demand is expected to cushion against external challenges. Annual GDP growth is estimated at 6.3%, slightly below the RBI's projection.

Gold prices on MCX are stabilizing around 99,300, suggesting a potential 'Buy on Dips' strategy near the 99,000 support zone. Technical indicators like RSI and MACD signal renewed buying strength and improving bullish momentum. Analysts suggest targets of 99,750 and 1,00,300 1,00,530 if the price sustains above 99,000.

An SBI analysis projects a decrease in private capital expenditure for FY26 compared to FY25, potentially worsened by US tariffs. While government spending has driven growth, the report emphasizes the urgent need for private sector investment to sustain economic momentum. Subdued private investment poses challenges for achieving higher growth levels, limiting the impact of government initiatives.

China's relaxation of rare earth metal export restrictions is poised to benefit India's electronics sector, a key Make-in-India initiative. This move addresses supply chain challenges, potentially boosting advanced manufacturing and research while stabilizing costs for vital components in electronics and EVs. Experts emphasize the need for India to enhance self-sufficiency in rare earth resources despite this positive development.

Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in red on Friday following days of rally. While Nifty50 was still above 25,000, BSE Sensex dropped over 100 points.

Stock market recommendations: Bajaj Broking Research suggests a positive outlook for the Nifty and Bank Nifty, recommending Sagility India and Aditya Birla Capital as top stock picks. Nifty is expected to consolidate between 25,250 and 24,600, while Bank Nifty may oscillate between 54,800 and 56,300.

The government has sanctioned Rs 6,982 crore in additional capital expenditure for BSNL in 2025 to bolster its 4G network rollout nationwide. This allocation supplements previous support totaling Rs 3.22 lakh crore. BSNL has shown financial improvement, reporting operating profits since FY 2020-21 and net profits in the third and fourth quarters of FY 2024-25.

Walmart reported strong second-quarter results, exceeding expectations and outperforming competitors like Target. Comparable sales rose by 4.6%, fueled by both established stores and online channels. The company is attracting higher-income shoppers with faster delivery and discounts. Despite a slight dip in stock due to settlement costs, Walmart raised its annual sales and profit outlook, projecting continued growth and operational efficiency.

The independence of the US Federal Reserve is under scrutiny. President Trump has pressured the Fed to cut interest rates. He even called for a governor's resignation. Fed Chair Jerome Powell is trying to balance inflation and economic growth. Economists warn that political influence could harm markets. Powell's upcoming speech is crucial for the Fed's future.

Existing home sales saw a slight increase in July, driven by marginally lower mortgage rates and a rise in available properties. The market experienced a 0.8% year-over-year sales increase, exceeding expectations, while home price growth slowed. Inventory levels reached a five-year high, offering buyers more negotiating power despite properties taking longer to sell.

Boeing is in discussions to potentially sell up to 500 aircraft to Chinese companies, a deal contingent on a resolution to the ongoing trade dispute between Washington and Beijing. This potential agreement could significantly benefit Boeing, which is working to recover from recent setbacks and safety concerns. Past trade negotiations have involved aircraft purchases to address trade imbalances.

US stocks experienced another decline on Thursday, with the S&P 500, Dow, and Nasdaq all posting losses. Walmart's disappointing profit forecast significantly impacted the market. Investors are also reassessing Big Tech valuations amid artificial intelligence enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Coty's quarterly loss surprised Wall Street, while Nordson exceeded expectations.

Japan intends to unveil a decade-long investment goal of 10 trillion yen ($68 billion) for India during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit. This plan upgrades the previous 5 trillion yen target set in 2022, strengthening economic ties and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A new study indicates India requires $467 billion in climate finance by 2030 to decarbonize its power, steel, cement, and transport sectors. Steel and cement will require the most investment due to reliance on carbon capture. The report suggests targeted subsidies and technology transfers to achieve these goals, emphasizing the feasibility of mobilizing the necessary finance.

Sebi is considering a regulated platform for pre-IPO trading to replace the unregulated grey market, aiming for transparency between allotment and listing. The regulator is also exploring longer-tenure equity derivatives to improve hedging and long-term investing. Sebi emphasizes transparency, investor protection, and responsible AI adoption while clamping down on fraud and misinformation in the market.

The government is pushing domestic mineral security. Exploration has started in Mizoram and Assam. The Centre will consult northeastern states before extraction. The Mines and Minerals Bill, 2025 is a turning point. India aims for self-reliance in critical minerals. The National Critical Mineral Mission is cleared. It will run till 2030-31. Private firms are encouraged to explore abroad.

China might permit yuan-backed stablecoins. This move aims to enhance the yuan's global presence. The State Council will review a plan to compete with US stablecoins. Leaders will discuss stablecoin adoption. Hong Kong and Shanghai are expected to lead local rollouts. Discussions on yuan and stablecoin usage may occur at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. This could reshape global finance.

Financial disclosures reveal that since assuming office in January 2025, President Donald Trump has invested heavily in bonds, exceeding $100 million. These investments, spanning from January 21 to August 1, include stakes in major financial institutions and corporate giants, as well as municipal bonds across several US states.

A Group of Ministers (GoM) has accepted a proposal to streamline the GST rate structure, reducing it from four slabs to two. The existing 12% and 28% rates would be eliminated, leaving standard rates of 5% and 18%. This reform aims to simplify the indirect tax system, provide relief to various sectors, and create a more transparent and growth-oriented regime.

Target's CEO, Brian Cornell, will step down in February, succeeded by COO Michael Fiddelke amidst company challenges. The leadership shift occurs as the retailer grapples with declining sales and a need to revive its reputation for affordable style. Fiddelke aims to improve merchandise selection, in-store experience, and technology investment.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate multiple infrastructure projects in Kolkata and Bihar. In Kolkata, new metro lines will be launched, improving connectivity and reducing travel times. Additionally, a major road project will ease congestion.

State Bank of India (SBI) analysis projects India's economy to grow robustly between 6.8% and 7% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, exceeding the RBI's 6.5% forecast. While Q1 shows strong performance, SBI anticipates a 6.3% GDP growth for the entire fiscal year, slightly below the RBI's 6.5% target.

Russia's dominance in India's oil imports has reshaped trading dynamics, impacting smaller suppliers while Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE maintain significant positions. Despite pressure to reduce Russian imports, India continues the supply, with Russia now being the top supplier. This shift has marginalized suppliers from America and Africa, creating potential for their resurgence amid ongoing geopolitical pressures.