India

Bank of Maharashtra has recorded a 17% year-on-year growth in credit, reflecting robust lending activity across retail, corporate, and MSME segments. The increase underscores the bank’s focus on expanding credit penetration, enhancing asset quality, and supporting economic growth amid evolving market conditions. Analysts note that sustained credit growth signals healthy demand for loans, improving business sentiment, and investor confidence in public sector banking.

Indian equities witnessed a strong rally, fueled primarily by renewed investor interest in banking and financial stocks. The benchmark indices surged as investors responded to positive earnings reports, liquidity support, and optimism over credit growth. Banking stocks, particularly from private and public sector lenders, led the gains, reflecting confidence in the sector’s resilience amid macroeconomic fluctuations. Analysts note that improved credit demand, stable asset quality, and regulatory measures have bolstered investor sentiment.

India’s services sector growth moderated in September, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data, reflecting a slowdown in new business inflows and weaker demand pressures. While the sector continues to expand, the pace has eased compared with previous months, signaling caution among service providers amid rising input costs and global economic uncertainties. Key sub-sectors such as IT, finance, and hospitality showed mixed performance, with employment growth remaining moderate.

India and Singapore have reinforced their economic and strategic partnership following a high-level visit by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, to Singapore. The visit focused on enhancing bilateral trade, investment flows, and technological collaboration, particularly in sectors such as digital innovation, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. Key agreements and frameworks were discussed to facilitate ease of doing business and strengthen supply chain integration.

India and Singapore are intensifying economic cooperation to foster trade and investment growth, reflecting both nations’ commitment to deepening bilateral ties. High-level discussions between government officials and industry stakeholders have highlighted opportunities in technology, finance, infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors. Singapore, as a strategic investor and financial hub, is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting India’s economic modernization and global integration.

Ignosis, a fast-growing financial data intelligence startup, has raised $4 million in a new funding round, underscoring investor confidence in the company’s ability to transform the way businesses and institutions harness financial insights. The capital infusion is expected to accelerate product development, expand its client base, and scale operations globally.

India’s economy is forecasted to expand at 6.5% in the fiscal year 2025-26, reflecting steady domestic demand, investment growth, and resilient consumption patterns. However, analysts caution that rising US tariffs and global trade tensions may pose headwinds for India’s export-driven sectors, potentially affecting the country’s trade balance and manufacturing growth. Policymakers are expected to monitor these external developments closely while implementing structural reforms to sustain growth momentum.

The Indian government has announced the extension of the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme until March 2026, providing continued relief to exporters grappling with global uncertainties and competitive pressures. The program, which reimburses embedded taxes and duties not refunded through other mechanisms, is designed to enhance the cost competitiveness of Indian goods in international markets.

India has been re-elected to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, reaffirming its position as a leading voice in shaping global aviation standards and policies. The development underscores India’s growing influence in international aviation diplomacy and its commitment to fostering safe, secure, and sustainable air travel.

Gold prices have climbed to historic highs as fears of a potential U.S. government shutdown fuel investor demand for safe-haven assets. Uncertainty surrounding federal budget approvals has prompted traders and institutions to seek refuge in precious metals, driving significant gains in the gold market. Analysts note that geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures, and macroeconomic uncertainty are compounding the effect, reinforcing gold’s role as a hedge against market volatility.