Category: Business

Mumbai, July 8: Indian benchmark equity indices opened in the red on Wednesday as investors turned cautious amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and weak global market cues.

The Sensex slipped 364.27 points, or 0.46 per cent, to 77,816.45 at the opening, while the Nifty fell 139.15 points, or 0.57 per cent, to 24,259.55.

Selling pressure was visible across most sectors, with Oil & Gas stocks leading the decline. Media, PSU banks, realty, cement, metal, auto and FMCG stocks also traded lower. However, pharma and IT stocks bucked the broader market trend, registering modest gains.

Among the Nifty 50 companies, Shriram Finance, InterGlobe Aviation, Asian Paints, Bajaj Finance, Eicher Motors, Larsen & Toubro and JSW Steel were the biggest losers in early trade.

Market participants remained cautious after a sharp decline in US technology stocks and mixed trends across Asian markets. Investor sentiment was further affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East, which pushed global crude oil prices higher. Brent crude rose above $76 a barrel, while WTI crude climbed past $72.

Analysts said the Nifty is likely to face resistance around the 24,450 level, with immediate support at 24,200. A break below this level could open the door for a further decline towards the 24,000 mark.

Elsewhere in Asia, Japan’s Nikkei traded lower, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng posted strong gains of more than 2 per cent, while South Korea’s KOSPI remained under pressure.

India, July 08: Whatfix, the AI-native platform for enterprise technology adoption, today announced a partnership with PTC Inc. (NASDAQ: PTC), a global industrial software company, to help manufacturers accelerate adoption across Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) environments.

This partnership positions Whatfix as the only agentic digital adoption platform provider partnering with PTC in the PLM segment. Together, the companies will help manufacturers across automotive, industrial equipment, and medical device sectors accelerate operational excellence and maximize ROI from PLM investments by improving user proficiency, workflow execution, and operational adoption at scale.

Manufacturing organizations operate highly complex enterprise environments where engineering precision, compliance, workforce readiness, and speed-to-market directly impact business performance. Yet many enterprises continue to struggle with realizing full value from software investments due to poor adoption and workflow inefficiencies. A commissioned Whatfix study with Forrester found that ineffective digital adoption costs mid-sized enterprises an average of $10.9 million annually through lost productivity, process inefficiencies, and underutilized technology investments.

Through the partnership, Whatfix will support manufacturers using PTC Windchill with AI-native in-app guidance, workflow support, and adoption analytics embedded directly within workflows across enterprise applications. The partnership is designed to help engineering and operations teams improve process consistency, accelerate user training and cross-functional workflows, and drive faster adoption of PLM systems.

“Manufacturers are focused on modernizing engineering operations while reducing complexity across global product ecosystems,” said Khadim Batti, CEO and Co-founder, Whatfix. “PLM systems are continuously evolving and have become mission-critical to this transformation, but realizing business value depends on how effectively users adopt and operationalize these platforms. Our partnership with PTC reinforces Whatfix’s strategic commitment to the PLM strategy and our vision for the userization of enterprise technology through AI-native experiences that drive operational excellence at scale.”

Organizations using Whatfix across PLM environments can achieve up to:

• 45% faster engineering task completion
• 40% faster onboarding and adoption
• 30% reduction in data errors and rework
• 35% fewer support queries across workflows
• 70% reduction in test environment maintenance effort
• $300K in annual training infrastructure cost avoidance 

These outcomes help manufacturers improve engineering productivity, strengthen compliance, accelerate time-to-market, and maximize ROI from enterprise PLM initiatives.

“Manufacturers are under growing pressure to improve productivity, compliance, and speed-to-market across increasingly complex PLM environments. One of the most persistent barriers to enterprise software ROI is adoption at the point of work. As digital adoption platforms evolve, their role is expanding from user guidance to workflow enablement, analytics, and measurable business impact across mission-critical applications. Organizations that address this barrier will be well placed to accelerate PLM value realization, improve workforce productivity, and drive more consistent execution across engineering and manufacturing workflows.” said Sharath Hari N, Vice President, Everest Group.

As manufacturers continue modernizing engineering and operational workflows, Whatfix and PTC will help enterprises improve adoption across increasingly complex PLM environments.

New Delhi, July 7: India has witnessed a sharp rise in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, recording a 44 per cent increase and securing a place among the world’s top 11 investment destinations, according to a report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

The surge in foreign investment reflects growing confidence among global investors in India’s economic potential, supported by policy reforms, a rapidly expanding market, improved infrastructure, and a strong digital ecosystem.

The UNCTAD report highlights India’s growing appeal as a destination for international businesses seeking new opportunities and reliable investment environments. Key sectors, including manufacturing, technology, infrastructure, and services, continue to attract global interest.

The rise in FDI is expected to contribute to economic growth by encouraging innovation, creating employment opportunities, supporting industrial development, and strengthening India’s participation in global value chains.

The latest figures underline India’s expanding role in the global investment landscape and its progress towards becoming a leading destination for international capital and business opportunities.

Mumbai, India July 07: Lavie, India’s leading accessories brand, introduces the Infinity Range in collaboration with actor Krystle D’Souza. Designed for summer with a palette of soft pastels, the brand leads its range with a light pink woven tote that brings together considered craft and everyday ease, fronted by actor Krystle D’Souza in campaign imagery.

The Infinity Range takes its name from its signature detail, a metallic gold Infinity fitting set against an intricately woven texture, lending the silhouette a refined, polished finish. Dual top handles, engineered with an optimized drop length, are designed for effortless, comfortable carrying, while the bag’s structured build holds its shape throughout a full day of use without sacrificing ease.

Built with versatility at its core, the range speaks to both teenagers and adults, moving fluidly between casual outings and more polished occasions. It reflects Lavie’s continuing design philosophy: modern, wearable style rooted in everyday practicality.

Krystle D’Souza fronted the campaign shoot for the Infinity Range and shared the collection with her audience via a dedicated social media post which went live on Lavie’s official Instagram on 4th July. 

The Infinity Range is available on Amazon, including as part of Amazon Prime’s exclusive assortment, and via Lavie’s D2C Channel.

New Delhi, July 7: India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will be integrated with Indonesia’s payment system, marking a major milestone in digital financial cooperation between the two countries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced.

The integration will enable smoother cross-border transactions, offering greater convenience to individuals, businesses, and travellers by improving the speed and accessibility of digital payments between India and Indonesia.

The initiative highlights the growing global acceptance of India’s digital payment ecosystem and reflects the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen financial technology cooperation.

Officials said the collaboration will support innovation in the fintech sector, enhance economic connectivity, and create new opportunities for trade, tourism, and digital commerce.

The move is part of India’s ongoing efforts to expand international digital payment partnerships and promote secure, efficient, and inclusive financial solutions worldwide.

Mumbai, July 7: Indian equity markets ended their four-session winning streak on Tuesday, with the benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty closing lower amid broad-based selling in metal and realty stocks.

Market sentiment remained subdued as investors booked profits following the recent rally, while weakness in metal and real estate counters dragged the key indices into negative territory. Selling pressure in select heavyweight stocks further weighed on overall market performance.

Despite the decline, analysts noted that the broader market remained resilient, with investors closely tracking global market trends, commodity prices, and upcoming domestic and international economic developments.

Market participants are also awaiting key macroeconomic indicators and corporate earnings, which are expected to provide further direction to equity markets in the coming sessions.

The day’s trading reflected cautious investor sentiment, bringing an end to the benchmark indices’ four-day gaining streak after a sustained period of positive momentum.

New Delhi, July 7: India is strengthening its global partnerships to ensure a secure and stable supply of critical minerals by collaborating with 35 countries, marking a significant step towards enhancing resource security and supporting future industries.

The initiative focuses on developing reliable and diversified supply chains for minerals essential to key sectors, including clean energy, electric mobility, semiconductor manufacturing, defence technologies, and advanced industries.

Through strategic international partnerships, India aims to improve access to critical mineral resources, encourage investments, promote technology exchange, and support sustainable exploration and processing capabilities.

Officials highlighted that securing critical mineral supplies is vital for India’s long-term economic growth and its transition towards a technology-driven and sustainable industrial ecosystem.

The government is working with partner countries to strengthen cooperation, reduce supply chain risks, and create a resilient framework to meet the growing demand for critical minerals in the years ahead.

Progressing with purpose: Building on a fast track record of success at PPDS, Jonas Fjeld takes on expanded responsibilities to accelerate growth and strengthen relationships with customers and partners across the Nordic countries.

Amsterdam, July 07: PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips Professional Displays and complementary solutions, is pleased to announce the promotion of Jonas Fjeld to Business Manager Nordics.

Part of a broader organisational realignment designed to support future growth and deliver more localised, tailored service and support to partners and customers, Jonas has been appointed to the newly created role after joining PPDS in August 2025 as Country Sales Manager for Philips Professional Displays in Norway.

With more than 15 years of top level AV/IT sales and management experience under his belt, including a decade working at two of the world’s leading manufacturers and distributors, Jonas has consistently demonstrated the leadership and expertise required to support the company’s continued growth across both local and international markets and through all verticals.

Reporting to Jae O Choi Park, EMEA Commercial Head at PPDS, Jonas’ expanded role now covers Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, Estonia, and the Baltics. He will be responsible for leading the sales and commercial strategy across all products and solutions – including Philips LED and Videowalls, Signage, ePaper and interactive displays, professional and hotel TVs, and solutions – driving growth and strengthening brand presence in each country.

Working closely with his team, including Lilly Janson, Sales Manager Finland and Baltics, Peter Bystrom, Sales Manager Sweden, and Peter Thurner, Sales Manager Sweden, Jonas will also focus heavily on further strengthening and expanding channel relationships with distributors, system integrators, AV/IT partners, designers and architects, ensuring PPDS remains at the forefront of future project tenders.

Commenting on his appointment, Jonas said: “Since joining PPDS, I have believed strongly in what we can achieve with our portfolio and talented team. We have built strong momentum in Norway, and I am proud to now take on this expanded role. There are significant opportunities ahead across the Nordics, and together we will continue to strengthen PPDS’ position in the market.”

Jae added: “Jonas has demonstrated strong leadership and a clear ability to develop and execute strategies that deliver results. His deep understanding of the Nordic region made him the natural choice for this role. On behalf of PPDS, I wish him every success.”

New Delhi, July 7: Gold and silver prices witnessed a decline of up to 2% on Tuesday, tracking weak global cues and subdued investor sentiment in the precious metals market.

The fall in international bullion prices impacted domestic markets, with both gold and silver coming under selling pressure. Market analysts attributed the decline to a stronger US dollar, shifting expectations on global interest rates, and cautious investor participation.

Gold prices remained under pressure as traders assessed the outlook for monetary policy and key economic developments. A firm dollar and higher interest rate expectations often weigh on demand for non-yielding assets such as gold.

Silver prices also moved lower, following weakness in global markets and reduced demand from investors. However, analysts noted that precious metals could find support from ongoing economic uncertainties and changing market dynamics.

Going ahead, bullion prices are expected to remain influenced by global currency movements, central bank policy decisions, inflation trends, and broader market sentiment.

New Delhi, July 7: Delhi-NCR recorded its highest-ever quarterly uptake of flexible workspace solutions in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting strong demand for agile office spaces among businesses across sectors.

The surge in flex space adoption has been driven by the growing preference for flexible leasing models, expansion plans of companies, and the increasing need for ready-to-use, scalable workplace solutions. Startups, enterprises, and multinational companies are increasingly turning to managed workspaces to improve operational efficiency and support evolving work models.

Industry experts said the record performance highlights the changing dynamics of commercial real estate, with businesses prioritising flexibility, cost optimisation, and employee-focused work environments.

The growth of flexible office spaces in Delhi-NCR also underscores the region’s expanding business ecosystem, strong infrastructure, and growing attractiveness for domestic and global companies.

With hybrid work models becoming more prominent and businesses seeking adaptable workplace solutions, the flexible workspace segment is expected to maintain its growth momentum in the coming quarters.