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Rabobank: Global grains and oilseeds trade grows amid turmoil

In the 2023-24 season, global trade in grains and oilseeds surged to 880 million tonnes, valued at $330 billion, according to a Rabobank report. Despite the ongoing Ukraine conflict causing price spikes, trade volumes grew at a compound annual growth rate of 3.2% for grains and 2.4% for oilseeds over the past five years, though this was slower than the previous decade's 7% growth. Soyabeans emerged as the most-traded oilseed, with an average of 168 million tonnes traded annually from 2021 to 2023, primarily driven by demand from China, which has become a key player in the soyabean market. Wheat remains the most traded grain, with Russia leading in exports. Factors such as population growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, potential declines in Chinese soyabean imports, and changing biofuel policies are expected to shape future trade dynamics, alongside weather impacts on crop yields. sources

Published:
Jun 04 2025, 8 pm

Airbus secures infrared protection contract for German Air Force

Airbus has secured a contract to enhance the German Air Force's fleet of 23 A400M transport aircraft with advanced infrared protection systems, the company announced on Friday. The agreement, made with Germany's procurement agency BAAINBw, will integrate Directed Infrared Counter Measures (DIRCM) technology into the military planes. This upgrade aims to bolster the aircraft's defense capabilities against heat-seeking missiles, ensuring safer operations in potentially hostile environments. The deal underscores Airbus's commitment to providing cutting-edge defense solutions to military clients, enhancing the operational effectiveness of the German Air Force. The announcement was made public on June 6, 2025. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 2 pm

May rains lower spot gas prices amid reduced power demand

India's gas price index, the Gas IndeX of India (GIXI), experienced a 5% decline in May 2025, settling at ₹1,016 per million British thermal units (mBtu), or $11.9, as demand from the power sector diminished due to unseasonal rains. The Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) noted that this drop was attributed to lower demand and increased supply, with peak demand reaching only 231 gigawatts (GW) compared to the anticipated 260 GW. Year-on-year, energy consumption fell by 4% to 148.7 billion units, while GIXI prices were still 19% higher than the previous year, influenced by rising international gas benchmarks. Trading volumes at IGX also decreased by 5% year-on-year to 4.7 million mBtu, with 80% of trades involving free market gas. A total of 140 trades were executed in May, with Chhara and Mallavaram being the most active delivery points. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 1 pm

India's Rubber Research Institute launches CRISP mobile app

The Rubber Research Institute of India has launched a mobile app named ‘CRISP’ (Comprehensive Rubber Information System Platform) in partnership with the Digital University of Kerala. This innovative app offers extensive information on rubber cultivation, incorporating Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), WebGIS technology, and Information & Communication Technology (ICT). Users can access details on location-specific rubber clones, fertiliser recommendations, pest and disease control methods, and insights into rubber tapping and processing. Additionally, the app features information on Rubber Producers’ Societies, Group Processing Centres, Rubber Board offices, and nurseries. Notably, it also highlights areas susceptible to landslides and floods, advising on suitable farming practices. Furthermore, CRISP has been updated to include current domestic and international prices for various grades of natural rubber, such as sheet rubber, latex, and block rubber, enhancing its utility for rubber farmers and stakeholders. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 1 pm

Climate change and pollution threaten ocean biodiversity: Global survey

A survey by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) has highlighted significant threats to ocean biodiversity, primarily driven by climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Conducted by 58 ocean experts from 19 countries, including India, the survey precedes World Ocean Day and the United Nations Ocean Conference. The majority of scientists identified climate change as the foremost danger, leading to ocean warming and altered weather patterns. Indian researchers noted that rising sea temperatures and extreme weather disrupt marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods. Plastic pollution was flagged as a critical issue in India, with vast amounts of debris from land activities threatening marine life and small-scale fisheries. Despite these challenges, experts remain hopeful, citing advancements in science and policy, as well as successful ocean restoration projects, as vital tools for safeguarding marine biodiversity. The MSC's report, released ahead of World Oceans Day, showcases positive initiatives in sustainable fishing practices. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 1 pm

Rare-earth supply issues may dampen urban EV consumer sentiment

Passenger vehicle sales in India fell by 3.1% in May 2025, with total retail sales dropping to 302,214 units from 311,908 units a year earlier, according to the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA). The decline is attributed to ongoing supply chain issues, including constraints on rare-earth minerals for electric vehicles and geopolitical tensions affecting consumer sentiment. FADA President CS Vigneshwar noted that while bookings remained strong, retail conversions were hindered by financing challenges and delayed purchasing decisions. In contrast, the two-wheeler segment saw a 7.31% increase in sales, driven by auspicious marriage days and strong rural demand. Three-wheeler and tractor sales also rose by 6.28% and 3%, respectively. However, commercial vehicle sales fell by 3.71%. Overall, total vehicle sales across all categories increased by 5.11% to 2,212,809 units in May compared to the previous year. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 10 am

MPC implements 50-bps repo rate cut upfront

In a significant move to bolster economic growth amid global uncertainties, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cut the repo rate by 50 basis points, reducing it from 6% to 5.50%. This decision, made by the six-member monetary policy committee, marks a total reduction of 100 basis points in the current calendar year. The RBI has shifted its monetary policy stance from "accommodative" to "neutral," reflecting a cautious approach to managing inflation and growth. Governor Sanjay Malhotra noted a revised inflation projection for FY26, now at 3.7%, down from 4%, while maintaining the GDP growth forecast at 6.5%. The move comes in response to external challenges, including market volatility and geopolitical tensions, aiming to ensure a stable economic environment. In market updates, the SENSEX rose by 124.11 points to 81,566.15, while the NIFTY fell by 63.50 points to 24,687.40. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 10 am

India, Italy to Boost Collaboration in Industry 4.0 and Tech

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal met with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani in Brescia on June 5, 2025, to enhance bilateral cooperation in key sectors including Industry 4.0, smart manufacturing, and the automobile industry. Following their discussions at the Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation (JCEC), Goyal announced plans for collaboration on technology partnerships, startup initiatives, and the establishment of Joint Working Groups in space and automotive sectors, alongside a memorandum of understanding on agriculture. Goyal also participated in the Italy-India Business Forum, emphasizing the Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029 and the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. He encouraged Italian businesses to engage in India's economic growth, holding discussions with leaders from prominent companies like Gnutti Carlo Group and Bonfiglioli to explore opportunities in manufacturing and sustainable agriculture. Goyal's visit marks a significant step towards strengthening India-Italy economic ties. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 8 am

RBI MPC June 2025: Will Repo Rate Drop to 5.75%?

In a notable market update, India's benchmark indices saw significant gains, with the SENSEX rising by 443.79 points to close at 81,442.04, while the NIFTY increased by 130.70 points, reaching 24,750.90. Crude oil prices also experienced a boost, climbing by 62.00 to settle at 5,448.00. In contrast, gold prices fell by 273.00, now priced at 96,989.00, although silver surged by 3,030.00, reaching 104,410.00. Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is anticipated to announce a 25-basis point cut to the repo rate, reducing it from 6% to 5.75% during its Monetary Policy Committee meeting. This follows a previous cut in April, driven by a cooling retail inflation rate of 3.16% in April, with expectations for it to drop further to a six-year low of 3% in May. The RBI aims to maintain inflation within a target range of 2-6% while supporting economic growth. sources

Published:
Jun 06 2025, 7 am

NCLT requests SpiceJet's lessor to submit valid Power of Attorney

The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has instructed three aircraft lessors of low-cost carrier SpiceJet to submit a valid Power of Attorney during ongoing insolvency proceedings. The lessors—AWAS 36698 Ireland, AWAS 36694 Ireland, and AWAS 36695 Ireland—filed petitions against SpiceJet over a ₹77 crore default in April 2024. During a hearing on June 2, it was revealed that the Power of Attorney for the petitioning party was only valid until February 11, 2025, prompting SpiceJet's counsel to highlight the absence of a current authorization. The NCLT emphasized the necessity of a valid Power of Attorney for the proceedings to continue. In response, the lessors' counsel requested time to file a new Power of Attorney, leading the NCLT to schedule the next hearing for July 3, 2025. SpiceJet, operational for 19 years, is grappling with multiple insolvency petitions from various creditors. sources

Published:
Jun 05 2025, 9 pm

Indian oil firms to boost ethanol procurement to 1,050 crore litres

Oil marketing companies (OMCs) are set to increase their ethanol orders from distilleries to 1,050 crore litres for the current ethanol supply year (ESY), up from 947 crore litres, as part of a strategy to reduce energy import dependence and support the agriculture sector. This adjustment comes as the government aims for an 18% ethanol blending target in petrol, with aspirations to reach 20% by the 2025-26 ESY. Notably, the blending rate exceeded 18.5% between November 2024 and April 2025. The increase in orders follows the Centre's decision to allocate an additional 28 lakh tonnes of rice for ethanol production, raising the total to 52 lakh tonnes. However, industry sources suggest that OMCs should have requested an additional 130 crore litres instead of 50 crore. The government’s subsidy for this initiative is projected at ₹10,000 crore, with distilleries producing approximately 245 crore litres of ethanol from the allocated rice. sources

Published:
Jun 05 2025, 8 pm

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