ICICI Bank reported a 3.2% year-on-year increase in net profit for the second quarter of FY2024–25, reaching Rs. 13,357 crore, supported by steady loan growth, stable net interest margins, and disciplined risk management. The private sector lender witnessed growth across retail, SME, and corporate lending segments, while maintaining robust asset quality. Fee-based income and digital banking initiatives also contributed to overall profitability.

Yes Bank reported an 18.3% year-on-year increase in net profit for the second quarter of FY2024–25, reaching Rs. 654 crore, driven by robust growth in retail and SME lending, improved asset quality, and disciplined cost management. The private sector lender’s net interest income (NII) and fee-based income strengthened, reflecting increased customer engagement and expanded loan portfolios. Proactive provisioning and a focus on digital banking initiatives supported operational efficiency.

India and the United States have intensified trade negotiations aimed at strengthening bilateral economic cooperation while ensuring that domestic priorities — particularly the protection of farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) — remain central to the discussion. The talks, held under the framework of the India-U.S. Trade Policy Forum (TPF), seek to resolve long-standing issues related to market access, agricultural tariffs, digital trade, and intellectual property.

HDFC Bank, India’s largest private-sector lender, reported a 10% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to Rs. 19,610 crore for the second quarter of FY2024–25, reflecting sustained loan growth, stable asset quality, and efficient cost management. The bank’s performance was underpinned by robust retail lending, steady deposit accretion, and effective balance sheet management. Despite a competitive interest rate environment, HDFC Bank maintained its net interest margin (NIM) and continued to strengthen its digital and rural banking footprint.

The government’s decision to reduce Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on select goods and services is poised to provide direct relief to consumers while stimulating demand across key sectors. As part of a broader effort to balance inflation management with growth momentum, the rate cuts are expected to lower retail prices, enhance purchasing power, and support small businesses. However, the Finance Ministry has emphasized that strict price monitoring will accompany these reductions to ensure the benefits reach end consumers.

In a strategic step toward India’s decarbonization goals, Desco and KPI Green Energy have announced a partnership to explore and implement hydrogen-natural gas blending projects. The collaboration aims to enhance the sustainability of the natural gas supply chain by integrating green hydrogen into existing infrastructure. This initiative aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and the government’s broader objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

India’s electronics consumption is projected to surge past Rs. 20 lakh crore by 2030, propelled by comprehensive Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, rising digital adoption, and a thriving manufacturing ecosystem. The sector — a cornerstone of the country’s technology-driven growth — is witnessing robust demand across smartphones, wearables, appliances, and electronic components. Policy measures under the GST regime have streamlined taxation, improved supply chains, and enhanced domestic value addition.

Culver Max Entertainment, the parent company of Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV, reported a sharp 45.3% decline in its consolidated net profit for the financial year ending March 2025. The company’s profit dropped to Rs. 481.2 crore from Rs. 880.2 crore in the previous fiscal year, while revenue from operations fell 4.3% to Rs. 6,261.2 crore. The dip was largely attributed to reduced advertising income and higher promotional expenses.

Federal Bank reported a decline in its net profit for the second quarter of FY2024–25, weighed down by higher provisioning requirements and moderate loan growth. Despite steady operating income and healthy advances, increased provisioning for potential loan losses affected profitability. The Kerala-based private sector lender remains focused on maintaining asset quality amid a challenging credit environment.

India witnessed a marginal decline in retail inflation for both agricultural and rural laborers in September, offering respite to low-income households grappling with persistent price pressures. According to the latest data from the Labour Bureau, inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index for Agricultural Labourers (CPI-AL) and Rural Labourers (CPI-RL) eased slightly as food prices moderated across several key categories. The decline, though modest, reflects improving supply conditions and effective government interventions in essential commodities.