Economy news - NewsLocker

US mortgage rates: 30-year home loan rate inches up to 6.16%, stays near 2025 low as housing demand remains cautious

08-01-2026 18:40 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

US mortgage rates saw a slight increase this week, remaining near their 2025 lows. While borrowing costs have eased significantly from a year ago, they continue to present a challenge for homebuyers. Despite some relief in monthly payments, housing affordability remains a major hurdle.

Global AI race: DeepSeek gains ground in developing nations; Microsoft flags widening gap

08-01-2026 18:06 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is rapidly gaining traction in developing nations, broadening generative AI access despite a widening global economic divide. Its free, open-source models are lowering adoption barriers, particularly in price-sensitive regions, while facing restrictions in Western markets due to security concerns.

Big push for road safety: Govt mulls V2V tech in vehicles to cut accidents; spectrum earmarked

08-01-2026 17:32 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Indian government is introducing vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology to enhance road safety and prevent accidents. A joint task force with the Department of Telecom has been established, with the DoT agreeing to allocate specific spectrum for V2V use.

Budget 2026: Why home loan rules need a fresh look

08-01-2026 16:45 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Home loans taken from non-banking sources - such as employers, friends, relatives or private lenders - qualify for an interest deduction but not for a principal deduction under section 80C.

Russian oil purchase: How 500% tariff could upend $120 billion India-US trade - explained

08-01-2026 16:31 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

US President Donald Trump has backed a bill that could levy 500% tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, giving the US leverage over major buyers such as China and India to curb imports from Moscow.

US market today: Wall Street trades flat; defence stocks rally on Donald Trump’s military spending push

08-01-2026 16:24 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

US stocks saw a slight dip as defence companies surged on President Trump's ambitious military spending plans.While major indices remained near highs, defence giants like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin posted significant gains.Bond yields edged up amid mixed economic data, and oil prices continued their volatile climb.

‘Scapegoated by Boeing’: Alaska Airlines pilot files $10 million lawsuit over 737 MAX 9 door plug failure

08-01-2026 15:57 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Alaska Airlines Captain Brandon Fisher is suing Boeing for $10 million, alleging the company wrongly blamed him and his co-pilot for the January 2024 door plug blowout.Fisher claims Boeing shifted blame in court filings after initially praising the crew's safe landing, causing him emotional distress and reputational harm.

Budget 2026: Assocham pitches incentives for hydrogen-based steel; green finance to cut carbon footprint

08-01-2026 15:54 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Assocham is urging the government to offer incentives for green steel production, including hydrogen-based DRI and renewable energy, to aid the sector's low-carbon transition.The industry body also seeks support for scrap recycling and R&D to boost productivity and reduce import reliance.

Budget 2026: Rs 1.52 lakh crore locked in Customs disputes; Govt may consider amnesty, duty slab rationalisation

08-01-2026 15:41 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Indian government may introduce a customs duty amnesty scheme in the 2026-27 Union Budget to resolve over Rs 1.52 lakh crore in pending litigation.

Inside Apple’s beginnings: Steve Jobs’ childhood items and early products head to auction

08-01-2026 15:16 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A significant collection of Steve Jobs' childhood items and early Apple products is now up for auction, featuring the first Apple check and an Apple-1 prototype motherboard. The sale also includes rare devices like the Lisa-1 and a first-generation iPhone, alongside personal effects from Jobs' youth, offering a comprehensive look at Apple's origins.

More trouble looms ahead for India as Donald Trump greenlights harsher sanctions bill

08-01-2026 15:14 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

President Trump has greenlit a bipartisan bill authorizing significant sanctions and up to 500% tariffs on countries buying Russian energy. The Sanctioning Russia Act aims to pressure nations like China, India, and Brazil, part of the BRICS block, to cease fueling Russia's war machine.

Solar alliance push: India-led ISA to stay course with 125 members after US exit, focus remains on climate goals

08-01-2026 14:48 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Despite the United States withdrawing from the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the India-led initiative will continue its work with 125 member nations. The alliance remains focused on advancing solar energy deployment, climate objectives, and supporting member countries.

Why Diesel Engine Cars Give Better Mileage Than Petrol Cars?

08-01-2026 14:16

One of the main reasons diesel cars offer better mileage is the higher energy content of diesel fuel. Diesel contains more energy per litre than petrol.

Gas market push: NSE in talks with IGX to launch Indian natural gas futures; aim to deepen price discovery and hedging

08-01-2026 13:36 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) is collaborating with the Indian Gas Exchange (IGX) to launch Indian natural gas futures. This initiative aims to provide a robust risk management tool for market participants, enhancing transparency and efficiency in India's evolving natural gas market.

Explained: Will Venezuelan crude lead to cheap petrol for American consumers?

08-01-2026 13:35 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The timing matters. Oil prices are already under pressure globally, and petrol prices have eased after years of inflation-driven pain. The Venezuela pitch is being sold as a way to lock that relief in.

Rupee watch: Currency slips to 89.94 against dollar; crude rise, FII outflows and tariff worries weigh

08-01-2026 12:26 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Indian rupee dipped by 7 paise to 89.94 against the US dollar on Thursday, influenced by rising crude oil prices, consistent foreign fund outflows, and a stronger dollar. Renewed worries about potential US tariffs and a downturn in domestic stock markets also weighed on the currency

UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Mascot ‘UIDAI’ To Simplify Public Communication Of Services

08-01-2026 12:10

The Aadhaar mascot named ‘Udai’ will be helpful in making Aadhaar-related information more relatable, and people-friendly, said the Ministry of Electronics and IT.

Gratuity calculation & definition of wages: What new labour codes mean for employees & organisations? Salary & benefits rules explained

08-01-2026 12:01 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

New Labour Codes explained: The draft rules released by the government are important because they outline several key provisions on how employees' wages, salary, allowances and gratuity benefits are structured.

Gold price today: How much 22K, 24K gold cost in Delhi, Kolkata & other cities - Check rates

08-01-2026 11:51 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Gold prices are trading lower today. February gold futures on MCX have seen a dip. This follows a volatile week for bullion markets. Strong US labor data and a stronger dollar are impacting sentiment. Losses are observed across various gold contracts on the MCX.

Opening doors for China? Finance Ministry mulls allowing Chinese firms to bid for government contracts: Report

08-01-2026 11:37 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

India is considering lifting rules that have barred Chinese firms from government contracts since 2020, a move that could reset commercial engagement as diplomatic tensions ease. The finance ministry is proposing to remove registration and security clearance requirements for bidders from bordering nations, aiming to unblock stalled projects and supply chains.

SBI projects 7.5% GDP growth! FY26 figures may surpass government estimates after base year revision — Here's what report says

08-01-2026 11:24 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

India's economic expansion in FY26 might surpass official forecasts, with a revised GDP base year potentially pushing growth closer to 7.5%. While agriculture growth is set to moderate, the services sector is expected to be the primary driver, projecting a robust 9.1% expansion. Industrial output will see a slight uptick, though mining output is anticipated to decline.

Air India fleet revamp: Airline takes first custom-made Dreamliner post-privatisation; wide-body induction gathers pace

08-01-2026 10:43 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Air India has received its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner since its acquisition by the Tata Group. This marks a significant step in the airline's long-haul fleet modernization under private ownership.

Budget 2026: Customs duty slabs set for big revamp; tariff structure to be simplified

08-01-2026 09:59 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Budget 2026: The government is looking to simplify its customs duty slabs and tariff regime in Union Budget 2026 by cutting labs to five or six, aiming to reduce disputes, streamline imports and align duties with trade and industrial goals.

2026 Tata Harrier And Safari Petrol Launched At Rs...; Check Features And Variant-Wise Prices

08-01-2026 09:51

The Harrier Petrol price starts from Rs 12.89 lakh and goes up to Rs 24.69 lakh, while the Safari petrol is available within the range of Rs 13.29 lakh and Rs 25.20 lakh. All prices are ex-showroom, New Delhi.

Silver Slides Nearly 3.5% To Trade Below Rs 2,42,000 Per KG On MCX

08-01-2026 09:48

The decline came after passive investment funds were expected to reduce their holdings in precious metals futures to match new index weightings.

LG Electronics India Shares Hit Record Low After Lock-In Expiry

08-01-2026 09:45

The share price fell as much as 4.4 per cent to Rs 1,392.8 during early trade. At 1:30 pm, the stock was still down 2.51 per cent or Rs 36.50 at Rs 1,419.90.

From Rs 12 LPA Salary To Rs 24 LPA In 2 Years: Software Professional From Tier-3 Engineering College Shares Career Growth

08-01-2026 09:43

An electrical engineering graduate from a Tier 3 college has shared his career graph and how his salary doubled in just two years.

Silver slides Rs 10,000 on MCX: March 2026 future prices fall nearly 3 per cent; what's the outlook?

08-01-2026 09:40 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Silver prices experienced a significant drop of Rs 10,000 on Thursday, with March 2026 futures plummeting. This sharp correction follows December's record high, signaling market instability. HSBC forecasts a gradual decline in silver prices over the next few years, citing weakening industrial and jewelry demand, despite a projected deficit. Increased mining output also contributes to the bearish outlook.

2026 Tata Punch To Launch On...; Check Expected Price, Features, Engines & More

08-01-2026 08:47

2026 Tata Punch: Tata Motors is all set to launch the facelift version of its most affordable SUV, the Punch, on 13th January.

From Rs 300 In 1952 To Rs 15,000 In 2014 And Present-- Check Out How EPF Wage Limit Has Changed In 74 Years

08-01-2026 08:01

In 1952, the EPS Wage ceiling was Rs 300 while the present wage ceiling is Rs 15,000.

Stock market today: Top 10 gainers and losers on Nifty50, BSE Sensex - check list

08-01-2026 07:59 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Indian stock markets, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, experienced a slight dip on Thursday. Analysts anticipate a range-bound market due to profit-taking, despite positive economic growth forecasts. While the economy shows resilience, the absence of a US-India trade deal and ongoing foreign investor selling are impacting market sentiment. Investors are advised to maintain patience through potential market fluctuations.

SEBI ‘Finds’ Confidential Information Leak From BofA On 2024 Block Trade: Report

08-01-2026 07:40

The regulator also allegedly faulted the bank for lacking adequate safeguards to prevent leaks of confidential capital‑markets transactions. Bank of America is preparing a response to SEBI's accusations and is expected to seek a multi‑million‑dollar settlement without admitting or denying wrongdoing, it said.

Indian Company Has Barred All Activities On LinkedIn, Says Employee; Viral Redditt Post Triggers Massive Debate

08-01-2026 07:24

A company has reportedly told its employees not to like or comment on any other company’s LinkedIn posts.

Budget 2026: From savers to investors - Unlocking India’s physical wealth through budget reforms

08-01-2026 06:59 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Indian households are among the largest holders of precious metals in the world, with an estimated holding of ~25,000 tonnes of gold accumulated over generations.

EPFO Name, Gender Change: List Of 18 Documents PF Members Require To Change Name And Gender In EPF Records

08-01-2026 06:24

As per the latest EPFO circular, Transgender ID card issued from national portal will now be accepted for name, gender changes in EPF records.

Who was Agnivesh Agarwal? Anil Agarwal’s son & Vedanta Group director passes away at 49; PM Modi offers condolences

08-01-2026 06:08 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the sudden passing of Vedanta Group director Agnivesh Agarwal, 49, who died of cardiac arrest after a skiing accident in the US. Agarwal, son of Anil Agarwal, was recovering well before the tragedy. He was a respected leader, sportsman, and musician, deeply committed to India's self-reliance and societal welfare.

Gold & silver price prediction today: Will gold & silver touch new record highs in coming days? Here's the outlook

08-01-2026 05:45 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Gold and silver price prediction: Abhilash Koikkara, Head - Forex & Commodities at Nuvama Professional Clients Group is of the view that gold and silver prices are touching new record highs and this is a phase of consolidation.

Asian stocks today: Markets trade mixed ahead of US job data; HSI falls over 1%, Kospi flat

08-01-2026 05:29 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Asian markets traded mixed as investors awaited key US labor data, which will influence Federal Reserve interest rate decisions. Geopolitical tensions, including China's anti-dumping probe into Japanese chemicals and US actions in Venezuela, also weighed on sentiment. Oil prices saw a slight increase after recent declines.

Stock market today: Nifty50 opens in red; BSE Sensex below 84,950

08-01-2026 04:50 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, continued their slide on Thursday. While Nifty50 was just above 26,100, BSE Sensex went below the 84,950 mark.

Stock market crash today: Nifty50 goes below 25,950; BSE Sensex down over 650 points

08-01-2026 04:50 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Stock market today: Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, crashed in trade on Thursday. While Nifty50 went below 25,950, BSE Sensex dropped over 650 points.

Stock market crash today: Nifty50 ends below 25,900; BSE Sensex down 780 points

08-01-2026 04:50 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Stock market today: The NSE Nifty fell 263.90 points, or 1.01 per cent, to end the session at 25,876.85. The 30-share BSE Sensex dropped 780.18 points, or 0.92 per cent, to close at 84,180.96, after hitting an intraday low of 84,110.10, down 851.04 points.

Will This Year's Budget Be Presented On Sunday? CCPA 'Proposes' February 1 Date For Union Budget 2026

08-01-2026 04:47

If approved, this would mark a rare instance in recent years of the Budget being tabled on a weekend, as the government sticks to its February 1 timeline to ensure timely implementation of budget proposals from the start of the financial year, as per media reports.

Top stocks to buy today: Stock recommendations for January 8, 2026 - check list

08-01-2026 04:24 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Top stock market recommendations: Aakash K Hindocha of Nuvama Professional Clients Group recommends buying ABB, Fortis, and Petronet. He also shares his views on Nifty, Bank Nifty.

AI’s productivity payoff yet to move the needle for IT cos

08-01-2026 04:04 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

IT firms' AI adoption metrics are raising questions as audited financial data shows little productivity gain since 2020. Despite significant acquisitions and a depreciating rupee, per-employee economics remain largely flat. Experts suggest enterprise-grade AI deployments are key for measurable business impact, with the next 12-24 months being crucial.

500% tariffs ahead for India & China? Trump clears Russia sanctions bill; what it means

08-01-2026 03:58 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The Trump administration is threatening to penalize countries buying discounted Russian oil, a move that could impact India's energy imports and trade with the US. A bipartisan sanctions bill, approved by Trump, aims to pressure nations like India, China, and Brazil to cease Russian crude purchases, which the US argues funds Putin's war in Ukraine.

TCS halts anniversary appraisals over WFO non-compliance

08-01-2026 03:52 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

TCS has halted final anniversary appraisals for some employees due to non-compliance with its five-day work-from-office policy. This move, impacting freshers, links performance banding and variable compensation to office attendance. The company has also tightened its exception request policy for personal emergencies and network issues.

Don’t Underestimate India: How The World’s Fastest-Rising Economy Left UK & Japan Behind

08-01-2026 02:00

India’s economic momentum shows no signs of slowing down. In 2021, the country overtook the United Kingdom to become the world’s fifth-largest economy, and that pace of growth continues today.