Budget 2026 expectations: Deloitte calls for customs duty overhaul; seeks higher allocations for exports

Deloitte India suggests the upcoming Union Budget should boost domestic manufacturing and exports by rationalizing import duties and increasing budgetary allocations. The consulting firm advocates for a balanced customs duty structure, encouraging domestic value addition and exports. Reforms to SEZ regimes and extended manufacturing programs are also proposed to enhance competitiveness and support Indian exporters in global markets.

US stocks today: Wall Street slips from record highs; earnings season opens on mixed note

Indian markets saw a cautious start as Wall Street edged lower amidst a mixed earnings season and expected inflation data. Major indices like the S&P 500 and Dow Jones experienced slight declines. While some companies disappointed, others like Revvity and Cardinal Health boosted outlooks, offering pockets of optimism. Inflation figures remained steady, keeping hopes for interest rate cuts alive.

Trump’s Iran tariff threat puts India’s rice, tea exporters on the edge

Indian exporters with significant exposure to Iran are grappling with shipment uncertainty, rising logistics costs and delayed payments after US President Donald Trump threatened sweeping tariffs on countries trading with Tehran, even as New Delhi assesses a regulatory framework to manage sector-specific risks.