Business - The Purbottar

18 Mar

Gold and Silver Prices Retreat on MCX as Investors Brace for Crucial US Federal Reserve Policy Verdict

anuprova EditorBusiness

The Indian bullion market witnessed a sharp correction on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, as gold prices on the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) slumped by over ₹700 to settle at ₹1.55 lakh per 10 grams. This downward movement was mirrored in the silver market, where prices tanked by 1 percent, reflecting a cautious shift in global investor sentiment ahead of the high-stakes US Federal Reserve policy meeting. The decline in precious metals is primarily attributed to a strengthening US Dollar Index and rising Treasury yields, as market participants recalibrate their expectations regarding the pace of interest rate cuts in light of…

18 Mar

Ishan Kishan partners Ai+ Smartphone ahead of Nova series launch

Business BureauBusiness

Ai+ Smartphone has announced an exclusive brand alliance with Indian cricketer Ishan Kishan, aligning its technology-driven identity with the player’s aggressive, boundary-pushing approach to the game. The company said the partnership reflects a shared belief that ambition should not be limited by access, positioning both the brand and the cricketer as symbols of performance without compromise. Ai+ Smartphone, which focuses on delivering modern technology at accessible price points, said the collaboration comes at a time when it is preparing to launch its upcoming Nova Series. As part of the association, Kishan will feature in the brand’s campaigns and initiatives, including…

18 Mar

Coke Studio Bharat unveils Season 4 line-up, expands focus on regional soundscapes

Business BureauBusiness

Coca-Cola India on Tuesday announced the artist line-up for Season 4 of Coke Studio Bharat, marking the return of the music platform that has gained prominence for blending regional traditions with contemporary sounds. The new season opens with ‘The List,’ featuring a diverse mix of artists including Rekha Bhardwaj, Aditya Rikhari, Kutle Khan, Faheem Abdullah, Arsalan Nizami, Madhur Sharma, Mohammad Faiz and Mame Khan, among others. After three seasons that reshaped India’s streaming music landscape, the platform aims to deepen its engagement with local musical traditions. Season 3 tracks such as Arz Kiya Hai and Holi Aayi Re had topped…

18 Mar

Hyatt signs 140-key Hyatt Place hotel in Ahmedabad, expands India portfolio

Business BureauBusiness

Hyatt Hotels Corporation on Tuesday announced the signing of an agreement for Hyatt Place Ahmedabad Nikol, marking a fresh step in its expansion across India’s high-growth urban markets. The 140-key property, being developed by Golden Buildcon, will strengthen Hyatt’s presence in Ahmedabad, a key administrative and commercial hub of Gujarat. The upcoming hotel will feature multiple dining options, including a main restaurant and a grab-and-go market. It will also house a 3,455-square-foot ballroom, along with conference rooms and a boardroom, catering to meetings and events. Additional facilities such as a fitness centre and swimming pool are expected to attract both…

18 Mar

Coffee emerges as Gen Z’s preferred gifting choice, signalling shift in consumer trends

Business BureauBusiness

The culture of gifting is undergoing a noticeable transformation, with Gen Z increasingly opting for thoughtful and experience-driven presents over conventional options. Among the emerging trends, coffee is gaining prominence as a preferred gifting choice, reflecting a shift towards more intentional and personality-led gestures. Unlike traditional last-minute gifts, Gen Z consumers are prioritising meaning and emotional value. Coffee, often associated with shared moments and daily rituals, is being seen as more than just a beverage. It plays a role in conversations, creative sessions, and leisurely weekends, making it an immersive and experiential gift. Gifting coffee aligns with the generation’s preference…

18 Mar

Renault launches new Duster in India, prices start at Rs 10.49 lakh; hybrid bookings sold out for 2026

Business BureauBusiness

Renault India on Tuesday launched the all-new Duster in the country, with introductory prices starting at ₹10.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The company also announced a limited R-Pass offer at ₹10.29 lakh valid until March 31, 2026, as dispatches begin nationwide. Built on the Renault Group Modular Platform (RGMP), the SUV is designed for Indian driving conditions, combining structural strength with improved ride and handling. The turbocharged TCe 160 engine delivers 163 PS and 280 Nm torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or DCT gearbox. Renault said over 90% of petrol bookings are for the higher-powered turbo variant. The SUV comes…

17 Mar

Energy Shock Intensifies: Global Oil and Gas Prices Surge as Iran Targets Production Hubs

anuprova EditorBusiness

Global energy markets witnessed a sharp spike in prices on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, as Iran escalated the ongoing conflict by successfully targeting vital oil and gas production facilities across the Gulf for the first time. International benchmark Brent crude jumped 3% to $103.28 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose over 3.6% to reach $96.85, reversing a brief decline from the previous session. The surge was triggered by reports of a drone strike on the Shah natural gas field in the United Arab Emirates—one of the world's largest—which forced a complete suspension of operations. Additionally, attacks were…

17 Mar

HSBC Mutual Fund launches first Gold ETFs in India; NFO opens this week

Business BureauBusiness

HSBC Mutual Fund has announced the launch of its maiden Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) offerings in India with the introduction of the HSBC Gold ETF and the HSBC Gold ETF Fund of Fund (FoF), marking the company’s entry into the ETF segment in the country. The New Fund Offer (NFO) for the schemes opens this week. The HSBC Gold ETF NFO will remain open for subscription from March 16 to March 18, 2026, while the HSBC Gold ETF Fund of Fund will accept investments from March 19 to March 25, 2026. Both schemes will be managed by Dipan Parikh of…

17 Mar

Axis Bank honours women entrepreneurs at Kolkata event to mark International Women’s Day

Business BureauBusiness

Axis Bank celebrated International Women’s Day by organising a special event in Kolkata to recognise the achievements of women entrepreneurs and changemakers from across West Bengal. The programme, held at Hotel Hindustan International (HHI), highlighted the bank’s commitment to promoting women empowerment, inclusivity and customer engagement. The event was graced by Bollywood actress Ekavali Khanna as the Chief Guest and attended by senior Axis Bank leaders including Sattar Ali, Regional Branch Banking Head – East 1; Piyali Reddy, Group Head – Corporate Communications; Amit Parekh, Circle Head – West Bengal 1; Sougata Chatterjee, Circle Head – West Bengal 2; and…

17 Mar

Tata Motors to raise commercial vehicle prices by up to 1.5% from April 1

Business BureauBusiness

Tata Motors on Monday announced a price hike of up to 1.5 per cent across its commercial vehicle range, effective from April 1, 2026, citing rising commodity prices and increasing input costs. The company said the price increase is aimed at partially offsetting the impact of higher raw material costs. The extent of the hike will vary depending on the model and variant of the vehicle. Tata Motors, part of the USD 180 billion Tata Group, is India’s largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles and a globally recognised producer of utility vehicles, pick-ups, trucks and buses. With more than eight decades…