Business

RBI holds rates steady, flags inflation risks as markets eye October hike

RBI holds rates steady, flags inflation risks as markets eye October hike

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept its key policy rate and monetary policy stance unchanged, a move that was widely anticipated by market participants. While maintaining status quo, the central bank underscored heightened risks on the inflation front, signalling that price pressures remain a key concern for policymakers. Reacting to the monetary policy decision, Upasna Bhardwaj, Chief Economist at Kotak Mahindra Bank, said the RBI's decision was on expected lines but reflected growing caution over inflation. She said the central bank had highlighted amplified inflation risks and added that Kotak Mahindra Bank expects a cumulative 50 basis points…
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ICICI Prudential simplifies flood claims process for Assam policyholders

ICICI Prudential simplifies flood claims process for Assam policyholders

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has announced a simplified claims settlement process for nominees and beneficiaries of policyholders affected by the devastating floods in Assam, aiming to provide faster financial assistance to bereaved families. The company said it will process death claims on the basis of just three essential documents to ensure quicker settlements during the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Under the revised procedure, nominees can submit a death certificate or any official record issued by government, hospital or police authorities, or proof of compensation provided by the Central or State government as evidence of death. In addition, claimants need to furnish…
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Vi bundles Spotify Premium with prepaid plans to strengthen entertainment offerings

Vi bundles Spotify Premium with prepaid plans to strengthen entertainment offerings

Vodafone Idea (Vi) has partnered with Spotify to introduce Spotify Premium as a bundled benefit across select prepaid recharge plans, aiming to strengthen its entertainment portfolio and attract India's growing base of digital-first consumers. The telecom operator on Monday launched three new prepaid recharge options that include Spotify Premium at no additional cost alongside voice, data and entertainment benefits. The flagship Rs. 435 Non-Stop Hero plan offers unlimited 4G/5G data, unlimited calls, 100 SMS per day, JioHotstar (Mobile) access and Spotify Premium with 28 days validity. The Rs. 250 prepaid plan provides 2GB data, unlimited calls, 300 SMS and Spotify…
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Sony expands True RGB TV lineup with 115-inch flagship BRAVIA 9II

Sony expands True RGB TV lineup with 115-inch flagship BRAVIA 9II

Sony India has expanded its premium television portfolio with the launch of the 115-inch (292 cm) BRAVIA 9II, the company's largest-ever BRAVIA television, as it strengthens its presence in the premium large-screen home entertainment segment. The unveiling was led by Sony India Managing Director Sunil Nayyar and Nezu Daisuke, Global Head of Home Product Business Division, Sony Corporation. With the launch, Sony's True RGB BRAVIA lineup now spans screen sizes from 55 inches (140 cm) to 115 inches (292 cm). The company said the new flagship television is powered by its proprietary RGB Backlight Master Drive Pro and BRAVIA XR…
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Bajaj Life prioritises Assam flood claims as insurers strengthen disaster response

Bajaj Life prioritises Assam flood claims as insurers strengthen disaster response

Bajaj Life Insurance has introduced an expedited claims settlement mechanism for policyholders affected by the Assam floods, reflecting the growing emphasis on operational resilience and rapid financial assistance by insurers during climate-related disasters. The company has established a dedicated claims settlement desk and simplified documentation requirements for eligible death claims in the flood-affected districts of Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat and Golaghat. Claims arising from the disaster will receive the highest priority, enabling faster disbursal of insurance benefits to affected families. Under the revised process, nominees or legal heirs can submit proof of death due to floods issued by local municipal authorities,…
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Eurofragance names Shekhar Srinivasan as India managing director to drive expansion

Eurofragance names Shekhar Srinivasan as India managing director to drive expansion

Global fragrance manufacturer Eurofragance has appointed Shekhar Srinivasan as Managing Director for India, strengthening its leadership team as it accelerates expansion in one of its fastest-growing markets. The appointment underscores the company's long-term commitment to India, where it has steadily expanded its operations since entering the market in 2018. Eurofragance said it has built a local workforce of more than 50 employees serving customers across the fine fragrance, home care and personal care segments. In his new role, Srinivasan will spearhead business growth, deepen customer partnerships, expand the company's market presence and oversee the next phase of expansion, including the…
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Adani Group presents Vande Bharatam initiative to Assam CM

Adani Group presents Vande Bharatam initiative to Assam CM

Representatives of the Adani Group on Monday met Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as part of the nationwide outreach for Vande Bharatam, an entrepreneurship and innovation initiative launched by Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, and presented him with a programme kit, memento and a letter highlighting the initiative's objectives. During the meeting, the delegation briefed the Chief Minister on the initiative's vision of promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and grassroots talent across the country. According to the Adani Group, the programme has already received more than 400 applications from Assam, reflecting growing interest among aspiring entrepreneurs in the state. The Chief…
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RBI Governor on UPI Fees: ‘Someone Has To Pay The Cost’

RBI Governor on UPI Fees: ‘Someone Has To Pay The Cost’

RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra has responded to growing speculation over the possibility of charges on UPI transactions, saying it is too early to comment on the issue but emphasizing that maintaining the country's digital payment infrastructure comes at a cost. Speaking after the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, Malhotra was asked whether UPI transactions could attract charges in the future. He said the matter remains premature as the government is still considering proposed legislative changes. However, he added that “someone has to pay the cost” of running and strengthening the digital payments ecosystem. The governor clarified that while UPI appears…
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Nestlé India Says FMCG Demand Softens, Long-Term Outlook Stays Strong

Nestlé India Says FMCG Demand Softens, Long-Term Outlook Stays Strong

Nestlé India has said that consumption in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector has slowed, but remains confident that its medium- to long-term growth outlook is strong. The company noted that India continues to offer one of the world's most promising long-term consumer markets, despite ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges. Company Chairman Suresh Narayanan Tiwary said the business continues to face uncertainties related to energy costs, packaging materials, edible oil prices, shipping disruptions, and currency volatility. However, he expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate these challenges while continuing to meet evolving consumer demand. Nestlé India is expanding its…
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Yamaha revives MotoGP editions, expands FZ colour range in India

Yamaha revives MotoGP editions, expands FZ colour range in India

India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. on Tuesday announced the return of the popular Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Edition for the R15 V4 and MT-15 Version 2.0 motorcycles, citing strong customer demand for its racing-inspired models. The company also expanded the colour palette of its FZ range with new shades and updated graphics for the 2026 lineup. The latest MotoGP editions of the Yamaha R15 V4 and MT-15 Version 2.0 feature the brand’s signature MotoGP-inspired livery across the tank shrouds, fuel tank and side panels, along with race-bred graphics and premium styling elements aimed at enhancing their sporty appeal while reinforcing…
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