News Digest

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Bond market funds 76% of states' deficit, up from 50% in FY17

Indian states' fiscal deficits are widening slightly, with market borrowing now funding the majority of their needs. Funding patterns are becoming more disciplined, with longer-term securities and lower borrowing costs. However, demographic shifts are creating distinct fiscal challenges and opportunities for younger versus older states.

Consumer industry captains seek more tax cuts to support demand

India's consumer goods chiefs are urging the government for tax cuts and measures to boost middle-class purchasing power to sustain consumption recovery. They seek support for local industries against volatile commodity prices and stable input costs, aiming to prevent price hikes for consumers. Increased disposable incomes and infrastructure investments are also key demands.

FPIs seek review of taxes faced by them, say some face double taxation

Foreign investors are urging a review of India's tax policies, particularly capital gains, citing high trading costs and potential double taxation. They argue that the reintroduction of long-term capital gains tax, coupled with difficulties in claiming foreign tax credits, makes India less attractive. Concerns also include computation issues and refund delays, contributing to significant FPI outflows.

Key sectors eye zero-duty EU access

India and the EU are poised to announce a free trade agreement, with domestic industries pushing for zero-duty access in sectors like textiles and leather to better compete with nations like Bangladesh and Vietnam. While the auto sector seeks protection against Chinese EVs, mobility-related easing for professionals is also anticipated.

Netflix vs Paramount: Here's what investors need to know about how the numbers stack up

Netflix vs Paramount: From savings to funding — Here's all investors and Warner Bros. shareholders need to know about how the bid numbers stack up against each other. 

Winter storm grounds US air travel: Over 10,000 flights cancelled on Sunday as snow batters major hubs

A severe winter storm has triggered widespread flight cancellations across the US, impacting over 10,000 flights on Sunday alone. Major airports in Dallas, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and New York are experiencing significant disruptions. Airlines are advising passengers to check their status and explore rebooking options, with refunds guaranteed if the trip is no longer desired.

Pak-India Business Council urges dialogue as it extends Republic Day greetings to India

The Pak-India Business Council urged both nations to resume dialogue to resolve outstanding issues, extending greetings ahead of India's Republic Day. Chairman Noor Muhammad Kasuri highlighted India's development and the potential for collaborative growth, emphasizing peace, prosperity, and strengthened regional ties for the Global South.

Two-child norm and maternity leave: Big win for working mothers in SC

The court set aside the decision of the division bench of Madras High Court, which had denied maternity leave to a government school teacher by applying the State’s two child norm policy, rather than as a right connected to motherhood and reproductive dignity.

India’s private credit market is booming, says Moelis India CEO Manisha Girotra

Moelis India CEO Manisha Girotra outlined a 2026 outlook defined by the rapid expansion of private credit, the rise of dual-track exit strategies, and massive capital expenditure in AI-led infrastructure and healthcare.

Padma awards 2026: Uday Kotak named among Padma Bhushan recipients

India's highest civilian honours, the Padma Awards for 2026, were announced, recognising 131 individuals across various fields. Notable recipients include Uday Kotak for finance, Dharmendra and V S Achuthanandan for their contributions, and Alka Yagnik and Vijay Amritraj for their achievements. The list also features prominent figures from sports, arts, and public life.

ED chargesheets online gaming app WinZO, alleges players duped of ₹734 cr using bots

The Enforcement Directorate has charged WinZO and its promoters, alleging ₹734 crore losses due to manipulated algorithms. Details here. 

India Inc cuts volume hiring: Companies go selective on STEM freshers - here's why

India Inc is significantly reducing fresh graduate hiring, particularly in STEM fields, as companies prioritise industry-ready talent. This shift sees a focus on smaller, skilled teams and job-ready individuals proficient in cloud platforms, data pipelines, and AI tools.

India said to cut import duty on cars to 40% from 110% in trade deal with EU

India is the world's third-largest car market by sales after the U.S. and China, but its domestic auto industry has been one of the most protected.

Manipulated images cause serious harm: Sridhar Vembu says AI labelling rules absolutely needed

Indian government’s move to mandate labelling of AI-generated content seeks to empower users to scrutinise such content and ensure that synthetic output is not masquerading as truth, IT Secretary S Krishnan had recently said at an event, and informed that the rules are now nearing finalisation.

Coal India arm ECL urges employees to ramp up production

In a message to employees ahead of the 77th Republic Day, ECL CMD Satish Jha said cumulative coal production up to December 2025 stood at 33.482 million tonnes, below the proportionate target of 38.752 million tonnes

Netflix CEO rejects Paramount's $108 billion offer for Warner Bros. amid Larry Ellison's backing — Here's why

Netflix CEO rejected Paramount's offer and said that without Larry Ellison's financial backing via independent financing, there is allegedly no chance that the company will be able to pull off its acquisition funding. Here's what you need to know. 

From Angel Tax To ESOP Stress: What Startups Want From Budget 2026

After the funding winter, India’s startup ecosystem has settled into what investors increasingly describe as a “new normal”. In 2025,…

JSW Steel sharpens expansion roadmap, eyes 56 mtpa capacity by FY31

The move comes as steel prices show early signs of stabilizing and the company steps up raw material sourcing.

Q3 earnings, US Fed interest rate decision, Budget to steer market movement: Analysts

Stock market eyes key triggers this week: US Fed rate decision, corporate earnings, rupee lows, and Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget on February 1, amid global and domestic uncertainties.

Marketing, AI, health: Test your business creativity with Edition 219 of our weekly quiz!

This insightful feature from YourStory tests and strengthens your business acumen! Here are 5 questions to kick off this 219th quiz. Ready?

MMTC-PAMP to launch silver recycling pilot in 3 months amid supply concern

Managing Director and CEO Samit Guha said the company is entering silver recycling because the economics are now more favourable, while global mine production capacity shows no signs of significant expansion despite growing demand

PhonePe DRHP: A Look At Shareholding Pattern & Key Executives

Shortly after receiving regulatory go-ahead for its confidential IPO papers, Walmart-backed fintech major PhonePe filed its updated draft red herring…

JioStar moves Supreme Court against CCI probe over alleged abuse of dominance in Kerala TV market

JioStar has appealed a 3 December 2025 Kerala High Court order declining to stay the CCI probe and directing its completion within eight weeks. The Supreme Court will hear the matter on 27 January.