Weekly News Platter
The Economic Times

Weekly News Platter

1 Nov, 2025, 05:51PM IST, PTI


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In case you had a busy week, these are the top stories you need to get caught up to speed...
Trump says trade deal with India coming soon, calls PM Modi ‘the nicest looking guy’Trump says trade deal with India coming soon, calls PM Modi ‘the nicest looking guy’
US President Donald Trump expressed confidence in securing a trade deal with India soon, praising Prime Minister Modi's leadership. Trump also recounted his role in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, though India has denied US mediation in that instance. Read more
Bihar elections 2025: NDA releases joint manifesto, promises jobs to 1 crore youthBihar elections 2025: NDA releases joint manifesto, promises jobs to 1 crore youth
The National Democratic Alliance released its 'Sankalp Patra' for the Bihar Assembly elections, with key leaders present. Meanwhile, the Mahagathbandhan, led by RJD and Congress, unveiled its manifesto promising government jobs for every family. Voting for the 243-seat assembly is scheduled for November 6 and 11, with results on November 14. Read more
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US’ Golden Gate move signals a likely shift in India strategyUS’ Golden Gate move signals a likely shift in India strategy
The US has granted India a six-month sanctions waiver for its operations at Iran's Chabahar Port, a move seen as a strategic concession amidst ongoing trade deal negotiations. This extension supports India's regional connectivity plans, particularly its gateway to Afghanistan and Central Asia, signaling Washington's willingness to accommodate New Delhi's geopolitical interests. Read more
Why Trump can't rush the Indian elephant into a trade dealWhy Trump can't rush the Indian elephant into a trade deal
The US and China have reached a tariff reduction breakthrough, with Beijing agreeing to curb fentanyl trade and resume soybean purchases. This signals a shift from Trump's tariff strategy, as India also resists pressure for a trade deal, prioritizing fair terms over rushed agreements. Read more
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Reliance to take a leaf out of the 'Campa' book for electronics businessReliance to take a leaf out of the 'Campa' book for electronics business
Reliance Retail is set to launch its Kelvinator and BPL electronics brands using a proven strategy. Expect aggressive pricing, higher dealer margins, and widespread availability across stores and online. The company is also targeting overseas markets like Nepal and Bhutan, with plans for Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Africa. Read more
Cobrapost alleges Rs 41,900 cr fund diversion at Anil Ambani's group, Reliance group denies 'malicious' claimsCobrapost alleges Rs 41,900 cr fund diversion at Anil Ambani's group, Reliance group denies 'malicious' claims
Cobrapost has accused Reliance Group of a massive financial fraud of over Rs 41,921 crore. The investigative portal claims funds were diverted from group companies to promoter-linked entities and through offshore channels. Reliance Group has strongly denied these allegations, calling it a malicious campaign to crash stock prices. The group stated the report uses old, publicly available information. Read more
Malabar Gold's trust built on values, jeweller tells 27,500 employees after Pakistani influencer rowMalabar Gold's trust built on values, jeweller tells 27,500 employees after Pakistani influencer row
Malabar Gold & Diamonds reassures its employees following a social media controversy. The jewellery giant faced boycott calls after a past marketing engagement. The company clarified the situation, stating it was unaware of the influencer's political views. Malabar Gold took immediate action to end the association and is pursuing legal recourse against defamatory posts. Read more
Mapping the Dunki route: How Indians risk everything to reach AmericaMapping the Dunki route: How Indians risk everything to reach America
Indian nationals are using the perilous 'Dunki' route to reach America. This illegal passage involves multiple countries and significant financial investment. Many migrants are apprehended and deported, returning home with debt and shattered dreams. Authorities are investigating smuggling networks involved in this dangerous journey. Read more
Trump says US to cut tariffs on China to 47% after ‘amazing’ meeting with Xi, teases major outcomes aheadTrump says US to cut tariffs on China to 47% after ‘amazing’ meeting with Xi, teases major outcomes ahead
President Trump announced a significant easing of trade tensions with China following a meeting with President Xi Jinping. Tariffs on Chinese goods will be reduced, and China will reportedly make large-scale purchases of American soybeans. Discussions also covered rare earths, fentanyl, and cooperation on Ukraine, with further outcomes expected soon. Read more
Hindustan Unilever's India arm gets Rs 1,986 crore tax noticeHindustan Unilever's India arm gets Rs 1,986 crore tax notice
Hindustan Unilever has received a significant tax demand order of Rs 1,986.25 crore for the financial year 2020-21. The Indian tax authority disputed the valuation of related-party transactions and depreciation claims. The company, known for brands like Dove and Surf Excel, stated the order will not materially impact its financials. Hindustan Unilever plans to appeal the tax demand. Read more
US signs 10-year defence framework with India, says military ties with New Delhi ‘never been stronger’US signs 10-year defence framework with India, says military ties with New Delhi ‘never been stronger’
The United States and India have signed a 10-year defence framework to strengthen coordination, information sharing, and technology cooperation, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced after meeting Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Kuala Lumpur. Read more
Another US sanctions waiver for Iran port boosts India's Afghanistan planAnother US sanctions waiver for Iran port boosts India's Afghanistan plan
India has secured an important extension from the US for the sanctions waiver regarding Chabahar Port, now valid until early next year. This port plays a pivotal role in enhancing India's connectivity with Afghanistan and Central Asia, ensuring ongoing operations that bolster India's strategic alliances in the area. Read more
India considering $12 billion plan to bail out state power distributorsIndia considering $12 billion plan to bail out state power distributors
India plans a massive bailout exceeding one trillion rupees for struggling state power distribution companies. To access these funds, states must privatize their electricity utilities or list them on a stock exchange. This reform push aims to tackle inefficiencies in the power sector. The government is finalizing details for an announcement in the upcoming budget. Read more
Air India seeks Rs 10,000 crore lifeline from SIA and Tata: ReportAir India seeks Rs 10,000 crore lifeline from SIA and Tata: Report
Air India is reportedly seeking at least 100 billion rupees ($1.14 billion) in financial support from its owners, Singapore Airlines and Tata Sons. This request follows a deadly crash in June and aims to overhaul the carrier's systems, services, and in-house engineering capabilities. The funding decision, whether a loan or equity, will be proportional to ownership stakes. Read more
Chinese buses have major security flaw, says Oslo operatorChinese buses have major security flaw, says Oslo operator
Oslo's fleet of electric buses, imported from China, is facing a significant security challenge due to a software flaw that may allow manufacturers or unauthorized individuals to seize control. Ruter, the transit agency, flagged this problem during their testing phase and is now actively constructing a digital firewall for enhanced protection. Read more
How Sachin Tendulkar, the cricketer, saved Rs 58 lakh income tax by calling himself an actorHow Sachin Tendulkar, the cricketer, saved Rs 58 lakh income tax by calling himself an actor
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar successfully argued in court that his income from foreign commercials was from acting, not cricket. This allowed him to claim a 30% tax deduction under Section 80RR, saving Rs 58 lakh. The Income Tax Appellate Tribunal agreed, stating that artistic performance in ads qualified for the deduction. Read more
Bizman buys four flats at DLF’s The Dahlias for Rs 380 crore in record dealBizman buys four flats at DLF’s The Dahlias for Rs 380 crore in record deal
An industrialist has acquired four interconnected apartments at DLF's The Dahlias for nearly Rs 380 crore, marking one of the country's most expensive apartment deals. This transaction, totaling over 35,000 sq ft, highlights Gurugram's rising real estate prices, now rivaling and sometimes exceeding prime Mumbai locations. The project has seen significant sales, with prices appreciating by 50% since its launch. Read more
Bihar polls: NDA promises spiritual city at Goddess Sita's birthplace in Sitamarhi districtBihar polls: NDA promises spiritual city at Goddess Sita's birthplace in Sitamarhi district
The NDA's Bihar assembly poll manifesto promises to develop Punaura Dham Janki Mandir in Sitamarhi as a world-class spiritual city named 'Sitapuram'. This initiative follows the foundation stone laying for a grand Mata Janaki Temple, planned on the lines of the Ayodhya Ram temple. The project involves significant investment for temple development and tourism-related works. Read more
Toyota steps up India expansion with new SUVs, rural push as profit surgesToyota steps up India expansion with new SUVs, rural push as profit surges
Toyota plans to launch 15 new and refreshed models in India by 2030, aiming to boost its market share to 10% from 8%. This strategy includes introducing new SUVs and an affordable pickup truck, alongside expanding its rural dealership network. The move is driven by record profits in India and a desire to reduce reliance on alliance partner Suzuki. Read more
Chipmaker Nvidia becomes world's first $5 trillion companyChipmaker Nvidia becomes world's first $5 trillion company
Nvidia has become the first company to reach a $5 trillion valuation, driven by the booming artificial intelligence sector. This milestone highlights the significant technological shift, though concerns about an AI bubble persist. The chipmaker's rapid stock growth is fueled by immense demand for its products, with recent disclosures of substantial chip orders and strategic partnerships underscoring its dominant position. Read more

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