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Gold Prices and Tariff Tensions Expected to Raise CPI

The Union Bank of India (UBI) has warned that ongoing global tariff wars and rising gold prices are likely to significantly influence the consumer price index (CPI) in the coming months, despite stable food prices. The report highlights that inflation could rise due to increased costs of non-food essentials, particularly precious metals. Recent data from the Ministry of Statistics revealed that India's retail inflation fell to 3.16% in April, down from 3.34% in March, attributed to lower prices for various goods, including vegetables and personal care items. Core inflation remained steady at 4.09%, with expectations of a 50 basis points repo rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) between June and August. The RBI has maintained inflation within its target range of 2-6%, providing reassurance to economists amid global inflation concerns. sources

Published:
May 14 2025, 9 am

Goa introduces ride-hailing framework; aggregators support draft policy

The Goa Transport Department has unveiled the draft Transport Aggregator Guidelines 2025, aiming to regulate app-based ride-hailing services in the state, a move that has garnered support from major mobility companies. The proposed framework stipulates that only vehicles registered in Goa or holding valid state permits can operate, addressing local taxi operators' concerns regarding the impact of out-of-state vehicles on their livelihoods. To enhance safety and compliance, all drivers must possess a Public Vehicle Service Badge as per the Goa Motor Vehicles Rules, 1991. Industry stakeholders, including Uber and Rapido, have praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to create structured mobility solutions and generate significant job opportunities. They emphasize the importance of providing diverse transport options for both tourists and locals, while also committing to safety features such as SOS alerts and trip tracking to ensure rider security. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 9 pm

IATA's AGM Returns to India After 42 Years

IndiGo will host the 81st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in New Delhi from June 1 to 3, marking the event's return to India after 42 years. With approximately 1,700 participants, including industry leaders and government officials, the AGM will highlight India's burgeoning aviation sector, which has seen significant growth and infrastructure development over the past decade. IATA's Director General, Willie Walsh, emphasized the importance of this gathering in showcasing India's role in global aviation, which directly employs nearly 370,000 people and contributes $5.6 billion to GDP. The WATS will address critical industry issues, including financial outlooks and sustainable aviation practices. IndiGo's CEO, Pieter Elbers, expressed pride in hosting the event, underscoring the airline's commitment to advancing India's aviation market and its socio-economic impact. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

Centre urges States to join Krishi Nivesh portal for agri investment

The Indian government has launched the Krishi Nivesh portal, a comprehensive platform aimed at enhancing agribusinesses, attracting investments, and improving farmers' incomes. Announced on May 29, 2024, the portal consolidates various agricultural investment schemes from seven central ministries, including Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, and aims to include additional ministries in the future. State governments are yet to join, but officials are urging them to identify and share relevant schemes for integration. The portal is designed to streamline the investment process, making it more transparent and efficient, allowing users to track applications and submit project proposals digitally. By centralising investment opportunities and information, the Krishi Nivesh portal is expected to modernise agriculture in India, boost private sector investments, and enhance productivity and sustainability in the sector. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

India to establish global aviation hubs, says Minister Naidu

India is set to enhance its civil aviation sector by establishing hub airports nationwide, aiming to create an "independent and self-sufficient" international flight network, according to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. In an exclusive interview with _businessline_, Naidu emphasized the necessity of this network to meet the aspirations of a nation that has become the world's fourth-largest economy. He highlighted the upcoming 81st IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in New Delhi, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address. The minister noted that two major airport projects in Noida and Navi Mumbai are nearing completion, with plans for additional airports and a revamped UDAN scheme to boost connectivity. Despite challenges in global aircraft supply, Naidu expressed optimism about developing local manufacturing for aircraft parts and reducing operational costs through reforms, aiming to make air travel more accessible for all Indians. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 7 pm

Trump Doubles Steel, Aluminum Tariffs; Exporters Concerned

U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to double tariffs on imported steel and aluminium to 50%, a move expected to significantly impact global steel markets and Indian exports valued at over $7.5 billion. Speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump stated that the increased tariffs, effective June 4, aim to bolster the U.S. steel industry. Indian exporters are particularly concerned about the implications for $1 billion worth of consignments already in transit, which will now face higher duties. Trade experts warn that this tariff hike complicates ongoing bilateral trade agreement negotiations between the U.S. and India, potentially affecting engineering exports by around $5 billion. The announcement follows a recent U.S. trade court ruling regarding tariffs, and India has previously filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization, indicating it may retaliate. Other nations, including Australia and Canada, have criticized the tariff increase as detrimental to free trade. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 6 pm

Strong FY25 GDP growth fueled by consumption and government spending

India's economy demonstrated remarkable resilience in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025, growing by 7.4%, surpassing expectations and marking the strongest quarterly performance of the year. This growth, attributed to robust domestic consumption, government investment, and a reduced reliance on exports, positions India as the world's fastest-growing major economy, with an overall annual growth rate of 6.5%. Experts, including Manoranjan Sharma from Infomeric Valuations, highlighted the positive impact of increased private capital expenditure, despite concerns over weak manufacturing growth amid global economic challenges. The Reserve Bank of India anticipates a continued growth trajectory of 6.5% for FY26, driven by improved private consumption and steady investment. However, analysts caution that potential global uncertainties and softer urban incomes could pose risks to future growth. Overall, the data reflects a strong domestic demand and recovery in rural markets, bolstering confidence in the Indian economy's adaptability. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 4 pm

May sees record FPI inflows of ₹19,860 crore

Foreign investment in Indian markets surged to a record high in May 2025, with net foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows reaching ₹19,860 crore, marking the best month of the year, according to the National Securities Depository Ltd. (NSDL). During the week of May 26-30, foreign investors maintained their buying trend, resulting in a net inflow of ₹6,024.77 crore, despite a slight outflow on Friday. However, overall FPI for the year remains negative, with net outflows of ₹92,491 crore from January to May. The rebound in May is attributed to a weaker US dollar and a more favorable outlook for the Indian stock market, driven by strong economic fundamentals. Analysts suggest that while geopolitical tensions caused mid-month volatility, renewed optimism among foreign investors could signal a potential turnaround, contingent on stable global conditions. Market participants are now keenly watching upcoming economic data and global monetary policies for further trends. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 12 pm

Mundra and Pipavav: Cheapest Hinterland-Connected Ports, Says Aggarwal

Girish Aggarwal, managing director of Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd, has downplayed concerns regarding competition from the upcoming Vadhvan container port in Maharashtra, asserting that both Mundra and Pipavav ports will remain the most cost-effective options for hinterland connectivity. During a recent earnings call, Aggarwal emphasized that North India's landlocked geography ensures that Pipavav and Mundra will continue to attract local cargo, which he believes cannot be diverted to Vadhvan or Nhava Sheva. APM Terminals, which operates Pipavav and has a 4% share of India's container market, reported a 14.1% decline in container handling, with 694,000 TEUs processed in FY 2025. The company is also set to begin work on a new liquid jetty, expected to be operational by 2026-27, while a proposed expressway from Deesa to Pipavav aims to boost cargo volumes in the future. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 3 pm

IndiGo launches direct flight from Adampur to Mumbai

IndiGo has announced the launch of daily direct flights between Mumbai and Adampur, effective July 2, 2025, marking Adampur as the airline's 92nd domestic station. This new route aims to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic growth by providing easier access for Punjab's agricultural and industrial sectors to Mumbai's major ports. The flights are designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, facilitating trade and job creation while strengthening cultural ties between northern and western India. Vinay Malhotra, IndiGo's Head of Global Sales, emphasized the airline's commitment to improving regional connectivity and promoting Punjab's rich cultural heritage. Adampur, strategically located in Jalandhar district, is home to the historic Adampur Air Force Station and offers various attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Punjab. Mumbai, India's financial capital, serves as a vibrant hub for commerce, entertainment, and culture, further enhancing the significance of this new route. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 3 pm

FPI May investment hits record ₹19,860 crore: NSDL

Foreign investment in Indian markets surged to a record high in May 2025, with net foreign portfolio investment (FPI) inflows reaching ₹19,860 crore, marking the month as the best-performing of the year, according to the National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL). During the week of May 26-30, foreign investors maintained their buying momentum, contributing a net inflow of ₹6,024.77 crore, despite a slight outflow of ₹1,758.23 crore on Friday. However, overall FPI for 2025 remains negative, with net outflows totaling ₹92,491 crore from January to May. Analysts attribute the May rebound to a weaker US dollar and a more favorable outlook for the Indian stock market, suggesting a potential shift in foreign investor sentiment. Despite a cautious start to the year, the positive trend in May could signal a reversal if global conditions stabilize. On the last trading day of May, the Sensex and Nifty 50 both closed lower amid mixed global cues. sources

Published:
May 31 2025, 12 pm

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