Microfinance institutions with portfolios under Rs 500 crore sought relaxed credit rating rules from banks to secure loans for growth. They claimed that stringent criteria hindered their expansion compared to larger counterparts. Senior bankers recommended utilizing government guarantee schemes, while urging policy adjustments for more inclusive lending practices to boost the sector's development.
ISRO will launch the EOS-08 earth observation satellite on August 15, 2024, aboard its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle. The mission aims to enhance microsatellite technology and includes payloads for infrared imaging, GNSS-Reflectometry, and UV dosimetry. The satellite’s advanced systems signify a notable improvement in satellite mainframe technology.
Congress is preparing for the Maharashtra assembly elections, emphasizing farmers' and youth issues, unemployment, and inflation in its manifesto, led by Prithviraj Chavan. The party will hold a rally in Mumbai on August 20, featuring key leaders and allies. Discussions on seat-sharing and campaign planning are ongoing.
Democrat contender Kamala Harris is up 9 points with independents (53%-44%), compared to Republican candidate Donald Trump. What will happen in the US Presidential Election 2024?
Opposition leaders accused the government of creating a Finance Bill that favors corporates at the expense of ordinary citizens. They raised issues about the lack of support for the unorganized sector, rising unemployment, and high GST on life and health insurance. Calls for better budget allocation and special economic packages were also made.
On Wednesday, the Lok Sabha passed the Finance Bill 2024, which includes a major amendment to the long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax on real estate. Originally proposed to be reduced to 12.5% without indexation (which adjusts for inflation), Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced an amendment allowing taxpayers to choose between the new 12.5% rate without indexation or the old 20% rate with indexation for properties bought before July 23, 2024.
The Season 2 finale of HBO's "House of the Dragon" unveiled several new plot twists and character developments. Key revelations included a mysterious figure in Daemon's vision and notable reappearances. Despite the newfound information, the episode ended on cliffhangers, with the show's various armies preparing for confrontation.
Economic concerns in the United States could be a major issue for the corporate culture, as it could lead to a reduction in remote working opportunities, followed by an expected wave of layoffs across different sectors of business.
Responding to a question, Prasad said that 24 electronics manufacturing clusters and four common facility centres had been approved and set up in 19 states under the central government’s schemes.
India's oldest exchange BSE on Wednesday reported a net profit of Rs 265 crore for the quarter ended June 2024, which is down 40% compared with Rs 443 crore reported in the year-ago period.
Former prime minister Khaleda Zia, recently released from house arrest, expressed gratitude to the Bangladeshi people for securing her freedom. Speaking at a BNP rally via video link, she urged for calm and unity to rebuild the nation. Zia served over two years in prison for graft before her release on presidential orders.
The Federal Reserve has been slow to cut interest rates but remains effective in averting a recession. Market volatility and rising jobless rates have caused concern, yet investors are not expecting a severe downturn. Rate cuts are anticipated to begin in September, potentially stabilizing the economy without drastic measures.
Wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from Paris Olympics 2020 for exceeding the weight limit by 100 grams during qualifying. The news brought support from leaders such as PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, who praised her resilience. Fellow athletes and public figures also extended their support, emphasizing that one setback doesn't define a champion.
BJP criticized Congress leader Salman Khurshid for suggesting India could face instability like Bangladesh. Khurshid's comments at a book launch were labeled anarchist and seditious. BJP MPs accused Congress of inciting unrest due to election frustrations. Shashi Tharoor, also present, highlighted the need for democracy and transparent elections.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed concerns about the 18% GST on health insurance during a Lok Sabha debate. She noted that the tax on medical insurance existed before GST was introduced and questioned whether those protesting had discussed removing this tax in their states.
Louisiana and Oklahoma have introduced measures mandating religious displays and teachings in public schools, challenging the Constitution's separation of church and state. This has prompted legal battles and reflects a broader conservative push against liberal educational curriculums. These actions are seen as attempts to reassert religious values in American public education.
Consolidated net profit rose 28% to 1.06 billion rupees (around $13 million) for the quarter ended June 30, beating analysts' estimate of 992.7 million rupees, per LSEG.
Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus and three associates were acquitted of labour charges by a Bangladeshi court. Their six-month conviction was criticized as politically motivated. Yunus, awarded for his microfinance work, will return to lead the caretaker government following the ousting of former leader Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India.
Presidential candidate Kamala Harris earned the United Auto Workers' endorsement, essential for securing votes in Michigan. Harris leads slightly over Trump, but convincing UAW members is vital. Historically, union households in Michigan have backed Democrats. Harris will meet union workers and rally with UAW leader Shawn Fain in Detroit, highlighting her labor support.
The company's board has also approved the appointment of MD Bajrang Lal Agrawal as the chairman with effect from August 9, 2024, in place of Shashi Kumar.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was named head of an interim government in Bangladesh following mass violence and the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The unrest, sparked by protests against her rule, resulted in over 100 deaths. The military has stepped in temporarily to restore order while awaiting new elections.
Vice President Kamala Harris intensified her approach to illegal immigration, countering Trump’s stance. She pushed for a bipartisan border security bill and criticized Trump’s past policies. Harris focused on her enforcement record and potential protections for immigrants, aiming to energize voters and addressing border security as a significant issue.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on Tuesday proposed that offshore derivative instruments (ODIs) issued by offshore funds should be backed only by cash equity or debt positions and not derivatives.