Category: Business

Mumbai, Apr 29 (BNP): Indian equity markets closed higher on Wednesday, though they gave up part of their intraday gains due to a sharp rise in global crude oil prices and weak global cues.

The Sensex rose 609.45 points to close at 77,496.36, while the Nifty gained 181.95 points to end at 24,177.65.

Market sentiment turned cautious after Brent crude surged over 3 per cent amid geopolitical concerns and supply uncertainty. Despite this, select heavyweights such as ITC, Tech Mahindra, and Maruti Suzuki supported the indices.

Broader markets showed mixed performance, with small-cap stocks outperforming while mid-caps ended slightly lower. Sectorally, FMCG and realty stocks led gains, while construction and media sectors underperformed.

Analysts said rising crude prices and global developments are likely to keep markets volatile in the near term, with investors also watching upcoming US Federal Reserve policy signals.

Guwahati, April 29: Interio by Godrej, a leading furniture brand from the Godrej Enterprises Group, has launched ‘Moments That Matter’ (MTM), a study that delves into how everyday experiences at home and at work shape emotional well-being, connection and comfort for modern Indians consumers. The study finds that everyday routines such as sleep, cooking and quiet personal time are central to how Indians engage with their living spaces today.

The Moments That Matter (MTM) study highlights how homes in Guwahati are shaped by togetherness and a strong sense of pride. 82% of respondents say that welcoming guests is an important way to showcase their home, reflecting a strong culture of hosting. In addition, both the living and dining room (60%) and bedroom (60%) are seen as key spaces where everyday moments unfold, highlighting how homes support both shared and personal experiences.

Commenting on the findings, Dr. Dev Narayan Sarkar, Senior Vice President and Head of Consumer Business (B2C), Interio by Godrej, said:

“The ‘Moments That Matter’ study represents more than a research. It offers a perspective into how Indian consumers envision the future of home and workplace design. In an increasingly fast-paced world, homes and workplaces are no longer just physical spaces, they are sanctuaries of well-being, connection and personal expression. The study reaffirms Interio’s commitment to understanding the evolving relationship between Indians and their living spaces. Our vision is to lead the transformation of how Indians experience their everyday environments, creating furniture that enriches the moments that truly matter for modern Indian consumers.”

The findings reveal that Indian homes are increasingly perceived as emotional anchors that restore balance and belonging amid the pressures of modern life. Bedrooms emerged as the emotional core of the home, with 90% of respondents associating them with comfort, rejuvenation and rest. 54% respondents associate their most cherished home moments with going to sleep in their own bed, underscoring the deep connection between sleep, familiarity and emotional security.

The kitchen has evolved from a purely functional space into an emotional one, with 97% of respondents linking cooking, whether alone or with family to mindfulness and bonding. The living and dining rooms continue to serve as the social heart of the home, where mealtimes remain the most joyful ritual of the day, bringing families together through conversation and laughter.

The study further found that balconies have become urban sanctuaries, with three in four respondents describing them as peaceful escapes that provide calm and perspective in the midst of city life. 53% said that early morning moments on the balcony help them begin the day on a grounded note.

At the workplace, the study highlights that informal connections such as casual chats, café breaks and shared lunches play a key role in fostering collaboration and belonging. Well-designed spaces and welcoming first-day setups were also seen as essential to creating comfort, motivation and trust among employees.

Mumbai, Apr 29: Vested Finance, a leading global investing platform for Indian investors living in India and globally to access international markets, has received approval as a Global Access Provider (GAP) under the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) at GIFT City.

The GAP license provides a formal regulatory framework for offering access to overseas financial markets from India’s International Financial Services Centre. It defines how platforms connect investors to global markets, including arrangements with foreign brokers, account structures, transaction flows, and reporting standards.

Under this framework, entities are required to operate within clearly defined regulatory boundaries covering client onboarding, fund movement, disclosures, and execution.

GAP entities are also subject to:

• Minimum net worth and infrastructure requirements
• Segregation of client funds
• Defined KYC and AML responsibilities
• Periodic audits and regulatory reporting

There is also a clear distinction between entities that directly connect to foreign brokers and those that only act as introducers. GAPs fall in the former category, meaning they are part of the core execution chain and carry direct responsibility for how access is provided.

For investors, this changes the nature of the setup. 

The framework requires segregation of client funds, routing of funds through IFSC-based banking channels, and clear disclosure of elements such as custody structures, fees, risks, and the regulatory environment of the foreign market being accessed. 

For Vested, the license strengthens its presence within GIFT City and places its global investing infrastructure within a domestic regulated framework. The company has been focused on enabling access to global markets, and the GAP structure formalizes that access within an IFSC-led regulatory setup in India.

On this, Viram Shah, Founder and CEO, Vested Finance, said,

“GIFT City is beginning to take on a more defined role in how Indian investors across the world connect with global markets. The GAP framework is important because it sets clear expectations on how that access should be structured and delivered.

For us, this is about bringing what we have already been building into a more formal regulatory environment. Investors today are looking at global markets as a core part of their portfolios, and that shift needs the right infrastructure behind it.

Operating within this framework allows us to align more closely with regulatory standards while continuing to simplify how investors access global opportunities.”

At a broader level, this also reflects how global investing is evolving for Indian investors. What was once seen as an add-on is now becoming a more regular part of portfolio construction, especially as investors look beyond domestic markets for diversification and exposure to global sectors that are otherwise unavailable in their local market.

In that context, having a regulated structure based in India becomes important. It brings more clarity on how access is provided, how funds are handled, and how responsibilities are distributed across entities involved in cross-border investing.

New Delhi, April 29: Silver prices declined in futures trade on Wednesday as investors reduced positions amid a stronger US dollar and rising crude oil prices, which weighed on overall bullion demand.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), silver futures for May delivery fell by ₹1,137, or 0.48%, to ₹2,36,208 per kilogram, with a trading volume of 2,020 lots.

The July contract also weakened, dropping by ₹1,964, or 0.81%, to ₹2,40,799 per kilogram, in a business turnover of 6,868 lots.

Market analysts said pressure on precious metals increased as oil prices remained elevated and currency movements reduced investor appetite for safe-haven assets like silver.

Mumbai, Apr 29 (BNP): India’s warehousing sector is witnessing a clear regional shift, with Mumbai and Pune emerging as key growth hubs, while Delhi-NCR has recorded a notable slowdown in activity, according to a recent report by Vestian.

The report highlights that western India continues to attract strong industrial and logistics investments, supported by better infrastructure connectivity, proximity to ports, and rising demand from e-commerce and manufacturing sectors.

Mumbai and Pune have seen increased warehousing absorption, driven by expanding supply chains and growing need for modern storage and distribution facilities. These cities are benefiting from strong industrial ecosystems and improved logistics networks.

In contrast, Delhi-NCR has witnessed a sharp decline in warehousing activity, reflecting slower leasing momentum and shifting investor preference toward western and southern corridors.

Industry experts note that India’s warehousing landscape is becoming more decentralised, with companies diversifying operations to improve efficiency and reduce logistics costs.

The trend also reflects the broader growth of India’s logistics and supply chain sector, which is being reshaped by e-commerce expansion, manufacturing growth, and infrastructure upgrades.

Overall, the report indicates a realignment in India’s warehousing demand, with western regions gaining prominence in the country’s evolving logistics map.

New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): The global transition toward renewable energy is gaining pace, with more countries increasingly adopting solar power as fossil fuel prices remain high and global energy supply chains face uncertainty, according to the Director General of the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

He noted that volatility in oil and gas markets, along with geopolitical disruptions, is prompting nations to look for cleaner, more stable, and cost-effective energy alternatives. Solar energy, in particular, is emerging as a key solution for strengthening long-term energy security.

The ISA highlighted that rapid improvements in solar technology, declining installation costs, and better storage systems are making solar power more accessible and viable across both developed and developing economies.

Experts say the global energy transition is also being driven by climate commitments and supportive government policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and increasing the share of renewables in the energy mix.

The Alliance stressed that solar energy will play a central role in ensuring affordable and sustainable electricity access while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Mumbai, Apr 29: Motorola, a global leader in mobile technology and innovation and India’s leading AI smartphone brand~, today announced the sale of the motorola edge 70 pro, bringing pro-grade low-light photography, flagship performance, premium design, and intelligent AI capabilities to consumers. Starting today, consumers can purchase the device from 12 PM onwards on Flipkart, Motorola.in, and leading retail stores across India.

The motorola edge 70 pro sets a new benchmark in smartphone imaging with its Triple 50MP Pro-Grade Camera System, led by the advanced Sony–LYTIA™ 710 sensor powered by moto AI. The system delivers exceptional low-light photography with superior clarity, enhanced dynamic range, and sharper details, while ensuring blur-free captures even in fast-moving scenarios. With Pantone™ Validated Colours and SkinTone™ accuracy, the device reproduces true-to-life visuals, complemented by ultra-sharp 4K 60FPS video recording across all cameras for a seamless and cinematic capture experience.

Powering the device is the MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Extreme processor, designed to deliver fast, efficient, and AI-driven performance. With up to 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, 256GB UFS 4.1 storage, and an advanced vapor chamber cooling system, the smartphone ensures smooth multitasking, responsive gaming, and sustained peak performance across demanding use cases.

Blending craftsmanship with innovation, the motorola edge 70 pro introduces Collections by Motorola, featuring premium finishes such as Satin-Luxe, Tailored Fabric, and Marble textures in Pantone™ curated colours. With a 6.99mm* ultra-slim profile and quad-curved comfort design, the device offers a refined in-hand feel while maintaining durability and style.

The smartphone features a stunning 6.8” 144Hz 1.5K True Colour Quad-Curved AMOLED display, delivering immersive visuals with HDR10+, 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, and 10-bit colour depth. With segment-leading 5200 nits peak brightness and Pantone™ validation, users experience vibrant colours and exceptional outdoor visibility, complemented by Dolby Atmos® stereo speakers for an enhanced multimedia experience.

Despite its slim design, the device houses a massive 6500mAh silicon-carbon battery, delivering up to 51 hours of battery life. Supported by 90W TurboPower™ charging, users can power up quickly and stay connected, productive, and entertained throughout the day.

Adding to the overall experience, the motorola brings an exclusive FIFA World Cup™ 2026 campaign, where consumers purchasing the motorola edge 70 pro between 29th April and 29th May can claim assured FIFA-branded goodies worth ₹2000.

Taking the excitement further, Consumers can access a dedicated microsite (www.hellomotofifa.in) to play an interactive football-themed game inspired by the “Football is Calling” campaign and get a chance to win 10 FIFA World Cup™ limited-edition motorola edge 70 fusion devices daily during this period

As participants engage and climb the leaderboard, they move closer to the ultimate reward, where 10 lucky winners will win world cup match tickets to watch a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match live in Los Angeles, bringing fans closer to experiencing the world’s biggest football stage.

Built for reliability, the smartphone meets MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards and offers the highest level of protection with IP68 and IP69 ratings, ensuring resistance against dust, water, and extreme conditions, making it a dependable companion for everyday use.

Running on Hello UI based on Android 16, the device offers a clean, secure, and intelligent software experience with moto AI features, enhanced privacy through ThinkShield, and 3 OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates.

Availability:

The motorola edge 70 pro will be available in two storage variants — 8GB RAM + 256GB and 12GB RAM + 256GB — and comes in premium Pantone™ curated colours: PANTONE™ Tea, PANTONE™ Titan, and PANTONE™ Lily White, featuring luxurious Satin-Luxe, Tailored Fabric, and Marble finishes.

The device will go on open sale starting 29th April 2026, from 12 PM onwards on Flipkart, Motorola.in, and leading retail stores across India.

Offer Details:

Product Name: Motorola Edge 70 Pro

Launch Price:

Edge 70 Pro 8/256 GB 

Edge 70 Pro 12/256 GB 

Affordability Offer details:

Consumer can avail either of below 2 offers

1. Instant Bank discount upto Rs 2000 from leading banks

2.  Exchange Bonus upto Rs 2000

Effective Price with Offer:

edge 70 Pro 8/256 GB 

edge 70 Pro 12/256 GB 

Operator Offer:

Exclusive Jio SIM Offer: Free access to Google Gemini Pro Plan for 18 months.

FIFA Offer:

The motorola edge 70 pro brings an exclusive FIFA World Cup™ 2026 campaign, where consumers purchasing between 29th April to 29th May can get assured FIFA goodies, play on www.hellomotofifa.in to win daily limited-edition motorola edge 70 fusion devices, and stand a chance to win tickets to a FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match in Los Angeles.

#Buy either a motorola signature or a motorola edge 70 pro between 29th April to 29th May to watch your world cup dream come true!

•            After your purchase, to claim FIFA World Cup 26™ goodies just send #Hello Fifa 

•            Register on https://www.hellomotofifa.in/ and fill in the entry form with your details

•            Play the game and stand a chance to win match tickets

New Delhi, Apr 29 (BNP): Gold prices moved slightly higher in futures trade on Wednesday as investors remained cautious ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy decision.

 On the Multi Commodity Exchange, the most-traded June gold contract rose by ₹93, or 0.06%, to ₹1,50,120 per 10 grams, with a trading volume of 9,067 lots.

Market analysts said support came from a weaker US dollar and ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which continued to encourage safe-haven buying in gold.

However, gains were limited due to higher crude oil prices, which weighed on broader commodity sentiment.

Overall, market participants are awaiting clarity from the US Fed policy outcome, which is expected to guide near-term movement in gold prices.

Chennai, Apr 29: After achieving robust volume growth over the past 4 years, Mahindra’s Truck and Bus Business today inaugurated its state-of-the art 3S dealership in Chennai, Tamil Nadu with 12 service bays, the facility can service more than 15 vehicles per day while also providing driver lodging, 24-hour breakdown assistance and AdBlue availability.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vinod Sahay, Chairman – SML Mahindra and Mahindra Advanced Technologies & President – Mahindra Aerospace, Trucks and Buses, Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group said, “Delighted to inaugurate our new state–of–the–art dealership in Chennai with M/s Sri Selvi Motors Pvt. Ltd. Mahindra Trucks and Buses and SML now have a combined strength of over 200 3S dealerships and over 400 secondary service touchpoints for trucks and buses across the country, providing world-class customer care to our valued customers. With close to 7% market share in trucks and buses, the Mahindra Group today has a 24% market share in I&LCV buses. We are targeting to increase our market share to 10-12% by FY31 and over 20% by FY36.” 

Dr. Venkat Srinivas, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, SML Mahindra and Business Head – Mahindra Trucks, Buses & Construction Equipment added, “Our obsession with customer-centricity has driven us towards creating disruptive value propositions for our customers. Be it the guaranteed higher mileage of our entire product range, or the most advanced telematics solution – iMAXX, which gives the fleet owners complete control over their transport business or a rapidly growing network of dealerships and other formats of after-sales support paraphernalia, we are committed to impart the best customer experience in the Indian Commercial vehicle industry.” 

Mahindra BLAZO X, FURIO, OPTIMO, and JAYO constitute the only range of commercial vehicles in India supported by dual service guarantees. Under this assurance, vehicles are guaranteed to be back on the road within 48 hours, failing which customers are compensated with Rs. 1,000 per day. Additionally, a guaranteed turnaround time of 36 hours is ensured at authorized dealer workshops, with a compensation of Rs. 3,000 per day in the event of any delay.