In a significant move to bolster its regulatory capacity, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has appointed three new executive directors. The appointments are part of the market watchdog’s broader effort to enhance oversight, streamline decision-making, and manage the growing complexity of India’s financial markets. With capital markets expanding rapidly, Sebi is reinforcing its leadership team to address challenges ranging from investor protection to the supervision of emerging financial products.

Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd., one of India’s largest healthcare providers, witnessed a significant promoter stake sale valued at Rs 1,489 crore. The transaction, executed through block deals, underscores the growing appetite of institutional investors in India’s booming healthcare sector. While the offloading reduces promoter holding marginally, it provides fresh liquidity and deepens the company’s public shareholding. Analysts view the move as a strategic step to enhance financial flexibility and attract long-term investors.

Bajaj Auto has resumed deliveries of its flagship Chetak electric scooter after a temporary pause caused by supply-chain bottlenecks. The resumption comes at a time when India’s electric two-wheeler market is witnessing accelerated adoption, driven by rising fuel costs, favorable policies, and a growing consumer preference for sustainable mobility solutions. With its strong brand heritage, the Chetak is positioned to compete with new-age EV manufacturers while capitalizing on Bajaj’s robust distribution network.

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has broadened its regional footprint by opening new offices in Patna, Raipur, and Dehradun, a move aimed at strengthening India’s agri-export ecosystem. This expansion is designed to enhance outreach to farmers, exporters, and agri-entrepreneurs in Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand, providing them with better access to global markets. By decentralizing its operations, APEDA seeks to improve export facilitation, ensure greater market linkages, and promote value-added agricultural products.

In a significant leadership shake-up, Taiwan’s Foxconn has appointed Robert Wu as the new head of its India operations while elevating Vincent Lee to a global leadership role. The restructuring underscores Foxconn’s growing commitment to India as a strategic hub for electronics manufacturing, amid rising global demand and supply chain diversification away from China. Wu’s appointment is expected to accelerate Foxconn’s investment push in India, especially in semiconductors and consumer electronics, while Lee will focus on strengthening global operations.

Bengaluru witnessed a day of subdued commercial activity on August 23 as markets and business establishments across several parts of the city remained closed. The shutdown, observed by traders and local associations, was called to press demands and highlight grievances impacting the business community. The closure disrupted retail and wholesale trade, affecting sectors ranging from groceries and textiles to electronics and daily essentials.

The ongoing expansion of the Kolkata Metro network is emerging as a powerful catalyst for real estate development across the city. With new corridors under construction and existing routes being extended, connectivity improvements are reshaping the residential and commercial property landscape. Analysts note that areas once considered peripheral are witnessing heightened demand, price appreciation, and increased interest from developers.

The revival of HMT Watches, once a household name in India, has resurfaced in policy discussions as Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, chaired a review meeting on its future prospects. Once celebrated as “India’s Timekeeper,” HMT lost market dominance following intense competition from global brands and technological disruptions in the 1990s and early 2000s. The latest review reflects a broader government push to assess the viability of legacy public-sector enterprises and explore opportunities for modernization.

Bandhan Bank, one of India’s youngest universal banks, has completed ten years of operations, marking a decade of financial inclusion, community upliftment, and sustained growth. From its origins as a microfinance institution, the bank has expanded into a full-fledged financial services provider with a nationwide presence, serving millions of customers across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. Its journey reflects not only business expansion but also a social mission of empowering underbanked populations, particularly women entrepreneurs and small businesses.

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to provide a tailored package of insurance and financial benefits to serving and retired personnel. The initiative is aimed at strengthening social security for India’s largest paramilitary force, ensuring financial protection for members and their families. The pact covers a wide range of services, including accident and health insurance, concessional loans, and dedicated banking assistance.