17th Jan - Business News

BUSINESS

• MARKET Jan 17: Sensex and Nifty End in Green Supported by IT Sector Rally

  The Indian stock market ended its two-day losing streak as the BSE Sensex rose by 187.64 points (0.23%) to close at 83,570.35, while the Nifty 50 advanced 28.75 points (0.11%) to settle at 25,694.35. The rally was primarily driven by the IT sector, with Infosys surging over 5% following strong Q3 results. However, gains were capped by losses in Zomato and Asian Paints.

• BULLION Jan 17: Gold and Silver Prices Today: 24K Gold at ₹1,43,780 per 10 Grams

  Precious metal prices in India remain high amid global safe-haven demand. Today, 24-carat gold is trading at ₹14,378 per gram (₹1,43,780 per 10g), while 22-carat gold stands at ₹13,180 per gram. For 20-carat gold, the rate is approximately ₹11,985 per gram. Silver prices remain strong at ₹2,92,000 per kg, reflecting consistent industrial usage and investor interest in ETFs during the current geopolitical climate.

• CRYPTO Jan 17: Crypto Market Update: Bitcoin Trades at ₹86.6 Lakh with Moderate Volatility

  The cryptocurrency market shows steady movement today. Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at approximately ₹86,63,503, while Ethereum (ETH) holds firm around ₹4,25,000. Other top performers include Solana (SOL) at ₹18,450, Binance Coin (BNB) at ₹62,100, and Ripple (XRP) at ₹215. Investors remain cautious as the market navigates regulatory discussions and shifting global liquidity trends impacting digital asset valuations across major exchanges.

• BANKING Jan 17: HDFC Bank Beats Estimates with 11% Jump in Q3 Net Profit

  HDFC Bank reported a robust performance for the third quarter, with net profit rising 11% year-on-year to ₹18,654 crore. The bank's performance was bolstered by better lending margins and steady asset quality, surpassing analyst expectations. Net Interest Income (NII) grew by 6.4%, signaling strong core operational health despite a challenging high-interest-rate environment that has pressured the broader banking sector.

• RELIANCE Jan 17: Reliance Consumer Acquires Global Rights for Brylcreem and Toni & Guy

  Reliance Consumer Products (RCPL) has significantly expanded its personal care portfolio by acquiring the global rights for iconic brands including Brylcreem and Toni & Guy. This move marks a major step in Reliance’s FMCG push, adding approximately ₹5,000 crore in quarterly revenue capacity. The company plans to leverage its vast retail footprint to scale these brands through aggressive pricing and revived marketing strategies.

• AUTOMOBILE Jan 17: Maruti Suzuki to Invest ₹35,000 Crore in New Gujarat Manufacturing Plant

  Maruti Suzuki has announced a massive investment of $3.9 billion (₹35,000 crore) to set up a new manufacturing plant in Sanand, Gujarat. This facility is expected to create over 12,000 jobs and significantly boost the company's production capacity to meet rising domestic and export demand. The investment underlines Maruti's commitment to the 'Make in India' initiative while strengthening Gujarat's position as an automotive hub.

• OPENAI Jan 17: ChatGPT to Introduce Advertising in US Following Rapid Expansion Drive

  OpenAI has confirmed plans to begin testing advertisements within ChatGPT in the United States. CEO Sam Altman stated that this move aims to expand access to AI tools while maintaining sustainable revenue models. The decision comes amid a legal battle with Elon Musk, who is seeking over $100 billion in damages, alleging that the company and Microsoft defrauded him by shifting away from their original non-profit mission.

• LEGAL Jan 17: Supreme Court Rules Against Tiger Global in Landmark Tax Evasion Case

  The Supreme Court has delivered a significant verdict in the Tiger Global case, clarifying the distinction between legitimate tax planning and tax evasion. The court ruled that share transfers under impermissible arrangements cannot claim capital gains exemptions under the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA). This ruling allows the I-T department to revive 2019 assessments, sparking concerns among foreign institutional investors regarding treaty-based tax benefits.

• FINANCE Jan 17: Yes Bank Reports 55% Profit Surge Driven by Bad Loan Recoveries

  Yes Bank’s net profit soared 55% year-on-year to ₹952 crore for the December quarter, largely due to successful bad loan recoveries and improved asset quality. Net interest income rose 11%, while margins remained steady. The results indicate a successful turnaround strategy for the private lender, as it continues to reduce its stressed asset pool and strengthen its balance sheet under new management oversight.

• TECH Jan 17: Netweb Technologies Profit Rises 147% on Strong High-End Computing Demand

  Netweb Technologies achieved a record-breaking quarter, with net profit surging nearly 147% to ₹73.3 crore. The company, which specializes in high-end computing and AI servers, benefited from the global surge in AI infrastructure investment. Following the stellar results, the board announced the re-appointment of its Managing Director to steer the company through its next phase of expansion in the domestic and international tech markets.

• ENERGY Jan 17: Andhra Pradesh Launches $10 Billion Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Project

  Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has inaugurated India's first Green Ammonia project in Kakinada, aiming to transform the region into a "Green Hydrogen Valley." The $10 billion green energy initiative marks a key milestone in India's transition to renewable fuels. The project will utilize renewable power to produce ammonia, significantly reducing carbon emissions and providing a sustainable alternative for the fertilizer and shipping industries.

• ANTITRUST Jan 17: CCI Warns Apple Over Delay Tactics in Ongoing Indian Antitrust Probe

  The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has lost patience with Apple’s legal maneuvers, warning the tech giant to submit its reply by next week or face unilateral proceedings. The regulator rejected Apple's bid to pause the investigation into its App Store policies and in-app payment systems. This escalation signals the Indian government's intent to proceed with an antitrust case against the iPhone maker regarding market dominance.

• STOCKS Jan 17: Indian Small-Cap Stocks Surge Sixty-Two Percent as Mid-Caps Begin Stabilizing

  The Indian equity market witnessed a remarkable rally in the small-cap segment this week, with approximately 27 stocks gaining up to 62%. While broader indices have shown some underperformance, experts from Sameeksha Capital suggest mid and small-caps are finally stabilizing. Analysts are identifying potential "Santa Rally" gainers, including Jupiter Wagons and Ola Electric, as investor sentiment improves across niche sectors.

• EPFO Jan 17: EPFO Plans Direct Bank Withdrawals via UPI Integration by April Twenty-Six

  The Labour Ministry and EPFO are working on a landmark digital initiative to allow members to withdraw EPF funds directly via UPI. Expected to launch by April, this move aims to provide quicker access to savings and reduce processing delays. Additionally, the EPFO plans to introduce facilitators to help members resolve complex issues, significantly improving the ease of transaction.

• GOOGLE Jan 17: Google Appeals Landmark Antitrust Ruling Over Search Monopoly and Data Sharing

  Google has officially filed an appeal against a US judge's ruling that declared its search business a monopoly. The tech giant is requesting a stay on the order that forces it to share proprietary data with competitors during the appeal process. Google argues that the DOJ's proposed remedies would harm consumer privacy and undermine its core product innovation.

• AUTO Jan 17: MG Majestor SUV Set for India Unveil as Toyota Fortuner Rival

  MG Motor India has confirmed that its new flagship SUV, the MG Majestor, will be unveiled on February 12, 2026. Positioned as a direct rival to the Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq, the Majestor is expected to feature premium interiors and advanced tech. This launch marks a significant step in MG's strategy to dominate the premium full-size SUV segment in India.

• RBI Jan 17: RBI Updates Forex Rules and Bans Advance Remittances for Bullion Imports

  The Reserve Bank of India has notified new directions under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) to simplify import-export compliance. A key change includes banning advance remittances for bullion imports to tighten oversight. Conversely, the RBI has provided more flexibility for importers paying in Rupees, aiming to bolster the domestic currency's international usage and improve the ease of doing business.

• BANKING Jan 17: ICICI Bank Third Quarter Net Profit Dips Four Percent Due to Provisions

  ICICI Bank reported a 4% year-on-year decline in net profit to Rs 11,318 crore for the third quarter, missing market expectations. The dip is primarily attributed to additional RBI-mandated provisions for agricultural loans. Despite the profit slip, the bank saw an 8% surge in Net Interest Income and confirmed the reappointment of its CEO to ensure leadership continuity.

• TRADE Jan 17: US-Taiwan Trade Deal Sparks Global Market Rally Amid Strong China Opposition

  Asian chip stocks and stock indices in Taiwan and South Korea hit record highs following a landmark trade deal between the U.S. and Taiwan. The agreement includes pledges for more U.S.-based chip factories. However, the deal has drawn sharp criticism from China, which "resolutely opposes" the move, urging Washington to adhere strictly to the one-China principle to avoid diplomatic friction.

• VW Jan 17: Volkswagen Discontinues One Point Five Litre Manual Variants for Virtus and Taigun

  Volkswagen India has streamlined its lineup by discontinuing the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with the 6-speed manual transmission for both the Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV. Moving forward, the powerful 1.5 TSI engine will only be available with the DSG automatic gearbox. This shift reflects changing consumer preferences toward automatics in the premium performance enthusiast segment in India.

• GOLD Jan 17: Gold and Silver Prices Retrace from Record Highs Amid Economic Data

  Gold prices saw a slight retreat from recent record highs as strong U.S. economic data dampened hopes for aggressive Fed rate cuts. While gold hesitated near the $4,600 mark, both gold and silver have maintained a weekly upward trend due to persistent global uncertainty. Analysts predict continued volatility in February as investors balance safe-haven demand against shifting macroeconomic indicators.

• INFRA Jan 17: Ceigall India Secures Nine Hundred Crore Jaipur Metro Phase Two Project

  Ceigall India Limited has emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) for a major civil contract for Jaipur Metro Phase 2. The project, valued at approximately Rs 918.04 crore, involves significant infrastructure development for the city's transit network. This win strengthens Ceigall's position in the urban infrastructure sector and marks a critical milestone for the expansion of public transport in Rajasthan.

• KIA Jan 17: Kia Launches New Value Variants for Syros and Carens Clavis Models

  Kia India has expanded its portfolio by introducing new "EX" value-for-money variants for the Syros and Carens Clavis models. The Kia Syros HTK (EX) has been launched at an aggressive price of Rs 9.89 lakh. These updates include adding popular features like sunroofs to the 1.5-litre petrol trims, aiming to capture a larger share of the budget-conscious yet feature-seeking SUV market.

• SALES Jan 17: Renault and Nissan Reveal December Sales Breakup for Major Indian Models

  Year-end sales data for Renault and Nissan in India shows a steady performance for key models like the Magnite, Triber, Kiger, and Kwid. The Magnite remains the primary volume driver for Nissan, while Renault's Triber continues to attract buyers in the affordable MPV segment. The manufacturers are now focusing on refreshing their lineups for 2026 to counter rising competition from new SUV entrants.

• CHIPS Jan 17: China Imposes Surprise Customs Block On Nvidia H200 AI Chip Shipments

  In a significant escalation of tech tensions, China has blocked imports of Nvidia's flagship H200 AI chips, despite the hardware being cleared for export by the U.S. government. Suppliers have reportedly paused production following the customs block. This move disrupts Nvidia's strategy to provide compliant high-end silicon to the Chinese market and marks a major hurdle for AI infrastructure development in the region.

• RETAIL Jan 17: Walmart International CEO Kathryn McLay To Step Down After Two-Year Tenure

  Walmart has announced a major leadership transition as Kathryn McLay prepares to depart from her role as CEO of Walmart International. McLay, who has led the global division for two years, will be stepping down amid broader leadership changes at the retail giant. The company has not yet named a permanent successor for the high-profile position overseeing its expansive international operations.

• METALS Jan 17: Silver Prices Tumble From Record Highs As Geopolitical Tensions Ease Gradually

  Silver prices experienced a sharp reversal, dropping over 2% to approximately $90.40 after a recent record-breaking rally. The decline followed President Trump's decision to hold off on critical mineral tariffs, which reduced market volatility. Analysts noted that easing geopolitical tensions and shifting U.S. trade policies have stalled silver's upward momentum, forcing the precious metal to hit a technical resistance wall.

• FED Jan 17: Trump Signals Desire To Retain Kevin Hassett Amid Federal Reserve Uncertainty

  President Trump has expressed his intention to keep economic advisor Kevin Hassett in his current White House role, further complicating the ongoing selection process for the next Federal Reserve Chair. This development comes as the broader stock market closed a volatile week lower, with the Dow and S&P 500 slipping despite gains in the semiconductor sector. Analysts remain focused on the potential legal and economic impacts of Trump's Fed policies.

• IPO Jan 17: Bharat Coking Coal IPO Listing Scheduled For Monday With Positive GMP

  The much-anticipated stock market debut of Bharat Coking Coal (BCCL) has been rescheduled for Monday. Analysts are currently advising investors to consider booking partial profits upon listing, as the Grey Market Premium (GMP) signals a positive debut. The revised timeline follows minor delays in the allotment and refund process, but market sentiment remains optimistic regarding the public sector undertaking’s entry into the exchanges.

• EV Jan 17: Bajaj Launches Affordable Chetak C25 Electric Scooter To Boost Market Share

  Bajaj Auto has introduced the new Chetak C25, a more affordable variant of its flagship electric scooter, designed to simplify electric mobility. With new color options and optimized range features, the C25 aims to position the Chetak brand as a top-selling EV both in India and international markets. Early reviews highlight its straightforward design and competitive pricing as key factors for mass-market adoption.

• CYBER Jan 17: China-Linked Hackers Target North American Critical Infrastructure Using Sitecore Zero-Day

  Cybersecurity researchers have identified a sophisticated campaign by China-linked threat actors exploiting a zero-day vulnerability in Sitecore. The group, dubbed UAT-8837, is targeting critical infrastructure and telecom providers in North America. By using open-source tools and Linux-based malware, the hackers are successfully stealing sensitive data, prompting urgent warnings from Cisco Talos and other major security organizations regarding infrastructure integrity.

• AI Jan 17: Anthropic Appoints Microsoft Veteran Irina Ghose As India Managing Director

  AI startup Anthropic has hired former Microsoft India Managing Director Irina Ghose to lead its expansion into the Indian market. Based in Bengaluru, Ghose brings 30 years of industry experience to help scale the "Claude" AI platform. This high-profile appointment underscores Anthropic’s commitment to building a significant presence in India’s rapidly growing AI ecosystem and competing directly with other major LLM providers.

• IT Jan 17: Indian IT Giants Face Muted Hiring As TCS Job Cuts Continue

  India's top five IT firms are grappling with a significant hiring slump, with net headcount falling by approximately 613 in the last nine months. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) reported shedding 30,000 employees over six months, warning that further job cuts may occur. As traditional roles diminish, these giants are pivoting their "playbooks" toward AI-driven services to offset the stagnation in traditional software outsourcing.

• TELECOM Jan 17: Government Begins Reassessing Vodafone Idea AGR Dues To Provide Relief

  The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has initiated a reassessment of Vodafone Idea’s Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues, with a completion target of February-end. Simultaneously, Airtel and Tata Group firms are expected to seek similar relief measures. This regulatory move has sparked renewed interest in Vodafone Idea shares, as brokerages weigh the potential for a sustainable financial recovery for the embattled telecom operator.

• PAINTS Jan 17: Grasim Appoints ITC Veteran Sachin Sahay As CEO Of Birla Opus

  Grasim Industries has named Sachin Sahay as the new CEO of its paints division, Birla Opus. Sahay, a veteran from ITC, was long considered a frontrunner for the role due to his extensive experience in consumer goods. Following the announcement, Grasim shares saw a positive uptick as investors reacted favorably to the strengthening of the leadership team in the highly competitive decorative paints sector.

• PHARMA Jan 17: Cipla Shares Hit Nine-Month Low Following USFDA Supply Disruptions

  Cipla’s stock plummeted over 5% to a nine-month low after reports of supply disruptions for Lanreotide in the U.S. market. The issues stem from USFDA observations at the Pharmathen facility, posing risks to FY27 revenue targets. Brokerages have subsequently cut price targets for the pharmaceutical giant, citing heightened regulatory risks and competitive pressure on key export products in the North American market.

• GOVT Jan 17: New Unified Salary Package Launched For Central Government Employees In India

  The Department of Financial Services has launched a "Composite Salary Account Package" for Central Government employees in partnership with Public Sector Banks. The new framework offers zero-balance accounts, cheaper loans, and free insurance coverage of up to Rs 2 crore. This unified financial solution is designed to streamline banking for government staff while providing significant value-added benefits like airport lounge access and comprehensive insurance.

• OFFICE Jan 17: Microsoft Closes Employee Libraries To Transition Toward AI-Powered Skilling Hubs

  Microsoft is shutting down its physical employee libraries and cutting back on newspaper subscriptions as part of a shift toward digital "Skilling Hubs." This move follows recent large-scale layoffs and reflects the company's aggressive pivot toward "AI experiences" over traditional resources. The decision marks the end of an era for the company's physical archives, which were once a cornerstone of its corporate campus culture.

• HEALTH Jan 17: Govt Launches Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima For CGHS Beneficiaries

  A new optional health insurance plan, "Paripoorna Mediclaim Ayush Bima," has been launched for CGHS beneficiaries. This plan complements existing facilities by offering cashless access to modern and traditional Ayush treatments. The initiative by the Department of Financial Services aims to provide comprehensive coverage for alternative medicine, ensuring that government beneficiaries have access to a wider range of integrated healthcare options.

• AUTO Jan 17: Toyota India Sales Surge 37 Percent Driven by Hycross and Hyryder Models

  Toyota Kirloskar Motor reported robust domestic sales of 34,157 units in December 2025, marking a 37.25% year-on-year growth. The performance was largely driven by the Innova Hycross and Urban Cruiser Hyryder, which together command a 42% share of the company's portfolio. Other models like the Glanza and Taisor also saw significant volume increases, while the premium Vellfire recorded the highest percentage growth.

• IPO Jan 17: Amagi Media Labs IPO Closes with Massive 30.2x Subscription Demand

  The ₹1,789 crore initial public offering of Amagi Media Labs concluded with a strong 30.22 times subscription on its final day. High-net-worth individuals led the demand with the NII portion subscribed 37.36 times, while institutional buyers followed closely at 33.77 times. The cloud-based SaaS platform for connected TV plans to use the proceeds for technology infrastructure and inorganic global growth.

• EV Jan 17: Hyundai Creta Electric Offered with Dealer Discounts Up to 1.25 Lakh

  Hyundai dealerships across India are offering substantial benefits of up to ₹1.25 lakh on the Creta Electric to clear 2025 inventory. While the ICE variant remains a top seller, the EV version is seeing aggressive dealership-level promotions. The electric SUV features two battery options with a range up to 473km and competes directly with the upcoming Tata Sierra and Mahindra's electric portfolio.

• POLICY Jan 17: Manitoba and PEI Release First PNP Immigration Draw Results for 2026

  The Canadian provinces of Manitoba and Prince Edward Island have kickstarted their 2026 immigration calendars. Manitoba issued 55 Letters of Advice to Apply focusing on strategic recruitment initiatives, while PEI invited 26 candidates from priority sectors with job offers. These draws signal the beginning of a busier immigration year as provinces look to meet increased federal nomination allocations for skilled workers.

• TATA Jan 17: Tata Sierra SUV Deliveries Commence as Base Smart Plus Trim Reaches Dealers

  Deliveries for the highly anticipated Tata Sierra have officially begun, with the base Smart+ variant now arriving at dealerships. Priced between ₹11.49 lakh and ₹21.29 lakh, the Sierra revives an iconic nameplate to compete in the mid-size SUV segment. The vehicle offers both diesel and turbo-petrol engines, prioritizing safety with a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating and a tech-heavy interior featuring triple screens.

• SPACETECH Jan 17: EtherealX Raises 20 Million Dollars to Develop Indias First Reusable Rocket

  Bengaluru-based spacetech startup EtherealX has secured $20.5 million in Series A funding led by TDK Ventures and BIG Capital. The firm is developing the "Razor Crest Mk-1," a fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicle designed to disrupt the global launch market. With MoUs worth $130 million already signed, the company aims to conduct its first technology demonstrator flight by 2027.

• WIPRO Jan 17: Wipro Q3 Profit Dips 7 Percent Despite Revenue Growth and AI Adoption

  Wipro reported a 7% year-on-year decline in net profit to ₹3,119 crore for the third quarter, impacted by higher people costs and labor code compliance. However, revenue grew 5.5% to ₹23,556 crore, supported by increased adoption of AI-enabled platforms like WINGS. The company declared an interim dividend of ₹6 per share and raised its full-year revenue growth guidance to 0-2%.

• BANKING Jan 17: HDFC Bank Q3 Profit Rises 11.5 Percent as Assets Cross 40 Lakh Crore

  India's largest private lender, HDFC Bank, posted an 11.46% rise in standalone net profit to ₹18,653 crore for Q3 FY26. The growth was supported by strong treasury profits and stable asset quality, with Gross NPAs improving to 1.24%. Despite an ₹800 crore impact from new labor codes, the bank's total balance sheet crossed the significant milestone of ₹40 lakh crore.

• RELIANCE Jan 17: Reliance Industries Reports 22,290 Crore Profit in Strong Q3 Showing

  Reliance Industries announced a consolidated net profit of ₹22,290 crore for the quarter ended December 2025. Total income reached ₹2.74 lakh crore, driven by the dominant Oil-to-Chemicals (O2C) segment and steady growth in Retail and Digital Services. The company maintains a healthy financial position with a debt-equity ratio of 0.39, even as it continues heavy investments in green energy.

• MARKETS Jan 17: Indian Equities End Volatile Week Flat as IT Stocks Lead Gains

  The Indian stock market concluded a choppy week with marginal changes, balancing positive corporate earnings against global geopolitical tensions. The Nifty IT index was the standout performer, surging over 3% on Friday led by Infosys and Tech Mahindra. Investors remain cautious as focus shifts toward the upcoming India-EU trade agreement and the impact of the US-Iran rhetoric on global oil prices.

• FINTECH Jan 17: Finshots and Groww Highlight Market Interest in New Tech IPOs

  Market analysts and fintech platforms like Groww and Finshots have noted a surge in retail investor interest toward tech-driven IPOs in early 2026. Beyond Amagi Media, several deep-tech and spacetech startups are being monitored for potential listings. The trend reflects a maturing Indian market where investors are increasingly willing to back high-growth SaaS and engineering firms alongside traditional blue-chip stocks.

• STARTUP Jan 17: India Startup Funding Rebound Seen in Space and Auto-Tech Sectors

  The Indian startup ecosystem is seeing a vibrant start to 2026, with significant funding rounds in deep-tech and EV sectors. Beyond the EtherealX deal, firms like CARS24 are reportedly eyeing IPOs within 12 months, and Thinking Machines Lab has appointed Soumith Chintala as CTO. This momentum suggests a pivot toward "hard tech" and sustainable business models as the funding winter officially recedes.

• LABOUR Jan 17: New Labour Codes Trigger Heavy One-Time Charges For Indian IT Giants

  Top Indian IT firms, including TCS, Infosys, and HCLTech, are facing a combined one-time financial hit of nearly ₹5,000 crore following the implementation of new labour codes. These charges primarily stem from revised gratuity and leave encashment provisions. While industry experts note the codes modernize old regulations, the immediate Q3 billing impact has forced companies to adjust their balance sheets significantly.

• RELIANCE Jan 17: Reliance Industries Reports Robust Q3 Profit Of Over 18 Thousand Crores

  Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), India’s largest company by market value, announced a strong quarterly profit of ₹18,645 crore. The results reflect steady performance across its diverse energy, retail, and digital services portfolios. Despite global economic fluctuations, RIL continues to demonstrate resilience, maintaining its position as a dominant force in the Indian corporate landscape with high revenue growth and operational efficiency.

• TECHM Jan 17: Tech Mahindra Q3 Net Profit Rises 14 Percent Despite Labour Impact

  Tech Mahindra reported a 14% year-on-year rise in net profit to ₹1,122 crore for the third quarter. While the company beat revenue estimates due to strength in the manufacturing sector, it faced headwind pressures from the new labour code implementation. Management noted that margins remained healthy despite these legislative changes, sparking optimism for continued growth in digital transformation services globally.

• AUTOS Jan 17: Maruti Suzuki Fronx Topples Rivals To Become India Best Selling SUV

  In the highly competitive sub-4m SUV segment, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx has emerged as India's top-selling model for December 2025. It outperformed the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza in a tight race for market dominance. Sales data indicates a shifting preference toward crossover styling, even as other major players like Hyundai and Kia maintain strong numbers with the Venue and Sonet models.

• X-CORP Jan 17: Elon Musk’s X Restored After Massive Global Outage Affecting Thousands

  Social media platform X, formerly Twitter, is largely back online following a major global outage that impacted tens of thousands of users, including many in India. This marks the second significant technical glitch for the platform in just four days. While the company has not officially detailed the cause, monitoring sites like Downdetector showed a massive spike in reported issues across several countries.

• BANKING Jan 17: RBL Bank Net Profit Surges Fivefold As Asset Quality Improves Significantly

  RBL Bank has posted an impressive Q3 result, with net profit soaring multifold to ₹214 crore. The bank’s asset quality saw marked improvement, with Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) dropping to 1.8%. Total loans have now crossed the ₹1 lakh crore milestone, driven by healthy growth in net interest income. Investors have reacted positively to the bank’s strengthened balance sheet and operational efficiency.

• ENERGY Jan 17: Oil Prices Rebound Amid Supply Risks And Iran Geopolitical Tensions

  Global oil benchmarks WTI and Brent have seen a rebound as traders refocus on supply risks linked to ongoing unrest in Iran. Oil futures are currently on track for their fourth straight weekly gain. Analysts suggest that the potential for supply disruptions in the Middle East is outweighing concerns about global demand, keeping prices volatile as investors monitor the situation in Tehran closely.

• COMMERCE Jan 17: Government Questions 10 Minute Delivery Claims Amid Quick Commerce Boom

  The Indian government has raised concerns regarding the feasibility and safety of "10-minute delivery" models promoted by platforms like Blinkit, Zepto, and Instamart. While these companies continue to optimize their "speed engines" and dark store networks, officials have questioned whether such rapid timelines are sustainable. Public opinion remains divided between the convenience of quick commerce and concerns over rider safety and traffic.

• SKODA Jan 17: Skoda Kushaq Facelift 2026 Teased Ahead Of Imminent India Launch

  Skoda Auto India has released the first official teaser for the 2026 Kushaq facelift, signaling an imminent launch to compete with the Hyundai Creta. The updated SUV is expected to feature refreshed exterior styling, a more premium interior, and additional tech features. This move is part of Skoda's broader strategy to revitalize its product lineup in India and maintain its share in the mid-size SUV market.

• AVIATION Jan 17: Air India A350 Grounded In Delhi After Engine Sucks In Container

  An Air India Airbus A350 was grounded at Delhi airport after its engine "ingested" a cargo container on the taxiway. The aircraft was returning to Delhi due to the closure of Iranian airspace when the incident occurred. The DGCA is currently investigating how the container ended up in the engine's path, causing significant damage. The grounding has caused disruptions to the airline’s long-haul flight schedules.

• PULSAR Jan 17: Bajaj Auto Increases Prices Across Entire Pulsar Range For 2026

  Bajaj Auto has implemented a price hike across its popular Pulsar motorcycle lineup starting this January. The hike affects various models, from the entry-level 125cc variants to the flagship N250. While the company cites rising input costs for the adjustment, rumors also persist about the return of a "Pulsar Classic" edition later this year to celebrate the iconic brand’s long-standing legacy in the Indian market.

• RYANAIR Jan 17: Elon Musk Trades Jabs With Ryanair CEO Over Starlink Connectivity

  A public spat has erupted between Elon Musk and Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary after the latter dismissed the idea of installing Starlink Wi-Fi on his planes. O'Leary called Musk an "idiot" over the cost and feasibility of the service, prompting Musk to jokingly suggest he might buy the airline. The conflict highlights the growing tension between tech disruptors and traditional low-cost airline operators.

• INVEST Jan 17: Donald Trump Discloses $100 Million Bond Investment In Netflix And Warner

  Recent financial filings reveal that Donald Trump has invested approximately $100 million in corporate bonds, including significant holdings in Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery. The timing of these purchases, occurring shortly after major deal announcements, has drawn scrutiny from financial analysts. The disclosures provide a rare glimpse into the former President’s diversified investment portfolio beyond his traditional real estate and media holdings.

• WIKIPEDIA Jan 17: Wikimedia Foundation Partners With Meta And Microsoft For AI Training

  Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Wikimedia Foundation has announced strategic partnerships with AI giants including Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft. These deals focus on using Wikipedia’s massive knowledge base for training AI models responsibly. The move aims to ensure that AI-generated content remains grounded in factual data while providing the Foundation with new revenue streams to support its mission of free knowledge.

• INFRA Jan 17: L&T Secures Massive Order For Petrochemical Plant And Pumped Storage

  Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has bagged a "large" contract from Petronet LNG for a petrochemical plant in Gujarat, alongside a significant ₹2,500-5,000 crore project for a 3,000 MW pumped storage plant in Maharashtra. These wins solidify L&T’s dominance in the hydrocarbon and green energy infrastructure sectors. Investors reacted positively, driving L&T shares higher following the news of these multi-crore project acquisitions.