India–China trade roadblock? Beijing slows approval for deals to guard tech transfers; Haier, PG Electroplast and more await clarity

China cautious over approving partnership agreements with Indian firms that require transfer of critical tech (AI-image) As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his first visit to China in seven years, experts indicate that Beijing is exercising caution and delaying approval of partnership agreements between companies of both nations, particularly regarding critical technology transfers, according…

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Gold price prediction: What’s the gold rate outlook for August 18, 2025 week – should you buy or sell?

Gold price prediction: The upcoming meeting between the US and Ukrainian leaders could weigh on gold prices. (AI image) Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are likely to be range-bound with several global factors impacting sentiment this week. Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial services Ltd shares his outlook on gold…

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IT sector hiring: Firms eye cautious, fresher-focused recruitment; TCS, Infosys and more set targets for FY26

Software services companies are set to adopt a cautious yet strategic approach to hiring in the second half of FY25, with recruitment specialists projecting 3–5 per cent growth compared to the first half. The focus will be on skilled freshers and junior-level positions, given lower costs and higher learning potential.“Hiring may remain muted in H2…

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GTRI alleges irregularities in duty free import scheme

NEW DELHI: Think tank GTRI on Sunday alleged massive irregularities in the duty free import-authorisation (DFIA) scheme, with unscrupulous elements taking advantage to import duty free walnuts, saffron, and lithium ion batteries for purported use to manufacture biscuits, pickles and tractors.Some of these goods face high levies and the scheme was being misused as the…

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ITC places bet on premium aromatherapy

MUMBAI: For young working Indians juggling deadlines and responsibilities, mental wellness is becoming a priority. They are willing to spend on soothing experiences-for instance, something as accessible as fragrances. This is the market opportunity that ITC is betting on. The company has quietly forayed into the aromatherapy (home aromas) space with the launch of a…

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‘Why no extra tariffs?’ US Secretary Marco Rubio defends US sparing China, Europe over buying Russian oil; warns sanctions risk global price surge

US Secretary Marco Rubio (File photo) US State Secretary Marco Rubio cautioned on Monday about potential energy price increases if the United States enforces secondary sanctions on China for processing Russian oil.The US secretary was asked, “is Europe still buying Russian oil?”“Well, if you look at the oil that’s going to China and being refined,…

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‘Stop buying Russian crude oil’: Trump adviser says India should ‘start acting’ as strategic partner of US; ‘…it’s cozying up to Russia, China’

Trump has imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil. (AI image) The Donald Trump administration has again called on India to stop purchasing crude oil from Russia, adding that India needs to act like a strategic partner of the US. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has…

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