reduced tariffs

US courts have again blocked Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them unauthorized. This ruling, following earlier tariff invalidations, signals a return to WTO's MFN rates. For India, this policy instability raises concerns, prompting advice to pause Free Trade Agreement talks until US trade systems stabilize, preventing one-sided deals.

India has significantly increased import tariffs on gold and silver to 15% from 6% to curb imports and protect foreign exchange reserves. This move follows Prime Minister Modi's appeal for citizens to avoid gold purchases for a year, aiming to narrow the trade deficit and support the rupee amid global economic pressures.

India has moved silver imports to a "restricted" category, requiring government approval, to prevent traders from exploiting a duty gap created by a recent 15% import tax hike. This move aims to curb arbitrage opportunities through the India-UAE free trade agreement, protect foreign exchange reserves, and control precious metal inflows, while exempting export-oriented industries.

Domestic energy prices remain volatile, but you can switch to green alternatives to protect your household budget

A US federal trade court ruled against President Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them invalid and unauthorized by law. The court found the administration's justification under a 1974 trade law insufficient, a setback for a key trade policy. This decision offers stability to businesses reliant on global supply chains.

The move to up the gold import duty comes days after PM Narendra Modi appeals to citizens to avoid unnecessary gold purchases for a year. But is a hike in duties an effective way to curb consumption? We take a look:

All eyes in Beijing from tomorrow as Xi, Trump navigate trade, tech and geopolitical whirlpools

Noida International Airport (NIA) faces controversy over high charges for airlines and passengers, negating its lower VAT advantage over Delhi's IGI Airport. IndiGo warns this will make flying from Noida costlier, potentially deterring fliers and impacting the new airport's success. Despite the operator's defense, fares are comparable, offering no cost incentive for passengers.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new clean electricity strategy aiming to double Canada's grid by 2050 and lower household energy costs. The plan, costing over $1 trillion, allows natural gas a larger role and embraces diverse energy sources, including hydro, nuclear, wind, solar, and geothermal.

250 MW Green Project Expected To Provide Assured Power During Peak Demand Hours

Presidents Xi and Trump are set for a crucial summit, aiming for stability despite deep-seated issues like tech rivalry and Taiwan. While a trade deal might emerge, it won't end the underlying friction. China's focus on domestic chip production and its stance on Taiwan, deemed the 'biggest risk,' will also be key discussion points. The US may also expect China's mediation in ending the Iranian mess.

As India opens its markets through FTAs, domestic cost structures, especially those linked to GST credit accumulation, become even more critical to ensure a level playing field.

China's exports surged 14.1% in April, significantly exceeding expectations and bolstering the nation's economy despite global uncertainties. This strong performance precedes a crucial meeting between US and Chinese leaders, where trade tensions and other disputes are expected to be discussed. Analysts anticipate continued export-driven growth for China this year.

Prime Minister Modi urged Indians to halt gold purchases for a year to protect foreign exchange reserves, a call supported by GTRI which highlighted a surge in gold imports straining the trade balance. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw echoed the appeal, emphasizing reduced import spending amid Middle East conflict, leading to a sell-off in jewellery stocks.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) leaders and workers protested LPG price hikes in Ranchi, citing financial strain on hotels and public hardship. They criticized the Union government's policies, comparing the situation to demonetization. The BJP countered, calling the protest a political stunt and urging the JMM to reduce state VAT on fuel, highlighting issues like electricity tariff hikes in Jharkhand.

Political strategist Vimal Singh observed voter fatigue with the incumbent government in Bengal, citing a lack of development and rising crime as key factors. He noted the BJP positioned itself as a strong alternative, capitalizing on this discontent. Singh also highlighted the need for the BJP to understand Bengal's unique culture and focus on industrialization to fulfill public aspirations.

The Indian Rupee hit a fresh all-time low against the US dollar, slumping to 95.74 amid soaring crude oil prices and Middle East tensions. While RBI interventions and higher gold import duties offered some support, the currency remains vulnerable. Foreign investors offloaded equities, yet domestic stock markets opened higher.