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Showing posts from July, 2025

GeoPolitical News (31st July, 2025)

Key Global Geopolitical Headlines 1. Ukraine enacts anti-corruption law amid Russian attacks On July 31, Ukraine’s parliament passed a reform restoring the independence of its anti-corruption agencies—NABU and SAPO—reversing earlier legislation that sparked mass protests. The move has been hailed as a vital step toward EU/NATO integration but comes as Kyiv faces renewed missile and drone assaults, resulting in civilian casualties. Ukrainian leaders are now calling for tougher international sanctions on Russia and stronger air defense support. 2. U.S. Senate rejects measures to halt arms sales to Israel The U.S. Senate decisively voted down two resolutions to block arms exports to Israel (70–27 and 73–24). While support from some Democrats—including Sanders, Warnock, and Warren—marked a shift, the resolutions failed. This comes alongside worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, criticism over military aid, and mounting global scrutiny. 3. U.S. imposes 25% tariffs on Indian import...

Business News (30th July, 2025)

India-Focused Highlights Samsung Foldables Fly off Shelves in India The Galaxy Z Fold 7 and related models saw staggering demand, with 210,000 pre-orders in just 48 hours. Supplies quickly ran out in multiple regions, prompting Samsung to ramp up production at its Noida plant to restock. NSDL IPO Opens India’s oldest depository, National Securities Depository Limited, launched its IPO today aiming to raise ₹4,012 crore via an offer-for-sale. IGI India Q2 Profits Soar International Gemmological Institute (India) posted a 63% year-on-year PAT increase, with 16% revenue growth and EBITDA up 37%, driven by strong demand for diamond certification and lab-grown gems. Laxmi India Finance IPO Sees Strong Subscription Reached ~88% subscription on Day 2, with grey market premium dropping to ~2% above issue price of ₹161. Retail investors led the charge. Markets Steady as Tariff Fears Loom Indian indices opened flat—Nifty50 and Sensex moved cautiously amid concerns over potential 20–25% ...

Sports News (29th July, 2025)

MLB: George Springer Hit by Pitch in Scary Incident Toronto Blue Jays outfielder George Springer was hit in the head by a 96 mph fastball during a ninth-inning at-bat against the Baltimore Orioles, causing a terrifying moment at Camden Yards. The pitch, thrown by Orioles rookie Kade Strowd, struck Springer with such force that he collapsed to the ground and lay motionless, drawing silence and concern from the crowd and viewers globally. After several tense moments, Springer was assisted off the field, prompting widespread fear about the seriousness of his injury. However, Blue Jays manager John Schneider later provided a positive update on Springer's condition, helping to allay some of those fears. NFL: Courtland Sutton Signs Extension; McLaurin Holds Out Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton has agreed to a four-year, $92 million contract extension, averaging $23 million per year. This deal adds pressure on Washington Commanders' WR Terry McLaurin, who is reportedly...

Current Affairs (28th July, 2025)

National News India-UK Free Trade Agreement Finalized India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA), enabling duty-free exports for 70% of Indian goods to the UK. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the potential benefits, while also addressing concerns over the UK's proposed carbon tax on imports. Rise of Opinion Trading Platforms Platforms like Probo, with over 50 million registered users, are transforming India's digital economy by allowing users to trade opinions on various events, such as UPI transaction volumes and election outcomes. International News Thailand and Cambodia Agree to Ceasefire After days of deadly border clashes, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire, as announced by the Malaysian Prime Minister. EU-US Trade Deal Sparks Controversy European leaders have expressed mixed reactions to a new EU-US trade deal that caps tariffs on most EU exports to the US at 15%. Critics argue the deal fav...

Economics News (26th July, 2025)

India: Trade Momentum and Inflation Trends India-UK Free Trade Agreement Finalized India and the UK have signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), hailed by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal as “game-changing.” The deal is expected to benefit sectors like agriculture, textiles, and services, and is part of India’s broader push for trade pacts with the EU, US, and New Zealand. Record-Low Inflation Forecast India’s retail inflation is projected to hit a historic low in July, with FY26 CPI expected at 3.0–3.2%, below the RBI’s 3.7% estimate. This follows a recent rate cut, with the central bank now focusing on capital formation. Gold Prices Dip Below ₹1 Lakh Gold prices in India have fallen below ₹1 lakh per 10 grams amid global corrections and easing trade tensions. Silver prices have also declined in tandem. Global Economy: Trade Talks and Monetary Policies CB Pauses Rate Hikes The European Central Bank has held interest rates steady for the first time in over a...

Tech News (25th July, 2025)

Top Technology News 1. ServiceNow Cuts Hiring with AI Efficiency ServiceNow announced it will save $100 million in 2025 by reducing planned hires, thanks to internal deployment of AI systems. The automation boost helped exceed Q2 earnings expectations and underscores how AI is increasingly viewed not only as a service but also a strategic cost-saver. While margins benefit, experts caution about the broader implications for white‑collar jobs. 2. Breaking Views: AI Boom vs. 1995 Dotcom Bubble A Bloomberg commentary draws parallels between today’s AI frenzy—led by players like OpenAI—and the Netscape IPO of 1995. While similarities include soaring valuations and speculative investment, key differences such as stronger capitalization in private markets and lessons learned from past crashes offer hope. Nevertheless, concerns over over-investment and market overheating remain. 3. Trump Unveils “AI Action Plan” At a major AI summit, former U.S. President Donald Trump introduced a plan to d...

Business News (24th July, 2025)

Markets & Stocks Global markets mixed: U.S. and European indices hovered modestly, while India’s Sensex and Nifty dipped on July 24. Pre-market U.S. outlook: Tesla shares fell nearly 6% following a second straight quarterly revenue decline and warnings of “rough quarters” ahead; Alphabet rose over 3% on strong earnings; Chipotle slumped over 10% after revising same-store sales growth downward. Indian IX patterns: Nifty ended 0.63% higher at 25,219.90; Sensex was up 0.66% at 82,726.64 earlier—but closed lower on the day. Stock picks: Recommendations include breakout buys in Mangalore Refinery, JM Financial, Radhika Jeweltech, Parag Milk Foods, and more. Ex‑dividend action: 24 companies including LIC, HDFC Bank, Divi’s Labs go ex-dividend on July 25; investors must buy by today to be eligible. Trade & Economy India–UK Free Trade Agreement signed: PM Modi and UK PM Keir Starmer formalize a landmark FTA today, sealing multi‑billion‑dollar liberalization measures. India s...

Sports News (23rd July, 2025)

Top News Highlights 1. Angel Reese makes WNBA history Angel Reese becomes the first player in WNBA history to record multiple 10‑game double-double streaks, marking a dominant inside performance this season. 2. NFL training camps ramp up The Buffalo Bills signed their entire 2025 NFL Draft class, including standout DT T.J. Sanders on a 4‑year, $10.65M deal ahead of training camp. Across the league, key news from camps includes QB Stafford limited at Rams, Saints’ Mathieu retiring, Rashee Rice active for Chiefs, and more. 3. Astros remain strong in MLB The Astros’ defense helped them clinch another win over the Diamondbacks, while Brice Matthews hit his third homer in two games. However, Isaac Paredes is expected to be sidelined for a “pretty significant” amount of time due to a right hamstring injury. 4. WWE SummerSlam 2025 hosting buzz Fans can expect Cardi B to officially host WWE SummerSlam 2025, affirming her involvement amid fan speculation. 5. Buffalo sports upd...

Current Affairs (22nd July, 2025)

India 1. Diplomatic breakthrough in Nimisha Priya case Yemen has postponed the execution of Kerala nurse Nimisha Priya, scheduled for July 16. The Indian MEA is actively coordinating with Yemeni officials and friendly nations to resolve the matter. 2. Toll suspended on Amritsar–Jamnagar expressway NHAI has paused toll collection on a 28.7 km stretch of Package‑4 (Sanchore–Santalpur) of NH‑754K from July 15 due to urgent monsoon-related repairs, prioritizing traveler safety. 3. Kansal’s cooling inflation sparks RBI rate cut calls Retail inflation has hit a six‑year low in June, triggering calls for more RBI rate cuts. Analysts foresee potential easing in September or October amid weakening domestic demand and sluggish car and real‑estate sectors. 4. PM’s UK visit to formalize India–UK FTA PM Modi is scheduled to visit the UK on July 23–24, where the landmark India–UK Free Trade Agreement is expected to be signed. Bilateral security cooperation will also be discussed. 5. Congress...

Geopolitical News (21st July, 2025)

Major Geopolitical Highlights 1.Israel launches ground and air offensive in Gaza Israeli forces have intensified operations in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza. Over 50,000–80,000 residents were ordered to evacuate after humanitarian zones were hit. The recent offensive follows a deadly weekend where 93 Palestinians died while queuing for aid. The death toll since October 2023 now exceeds 59,000, with women and children making up over half. International bodies like the UN and Pope Leo are urging a ceasefire amid rising famine concerns. 2.U.S.–China financial and supply chain rivalry U.S.–China legal and regulatory cross-border risk is reshaping multinational banks’ risk assessments. Rare earth exports from China to the U.S. surged by 660%, signaling a strategic realignment in critical supply chains. 3.EU–China Summit reveals trade tension cracks At the Beijing summit marking 50 years of EU–China diplomacy, leaders highlighted persistent trade friction and geopolitical divergence....

Business News (18th July, 2025)

Global Finance & Markets Oil prices climb after the EU approved new sanctions on Russia, tightening market supply and supporting higher crude prices. Wells Fargo hit by exit-ban fears in China, after one of its employees was barred from leaving the country—reviving concerns among U.S. and EU businesses operating in China. India Markets Sensex and Nifty fall sharply: The Sensex dropped over 500–600 points, with Nifty slipping below the 25,000 mark amid profit-taking in financial and IT stocks. Key triggers include FII outflows, weak Axis Bank earnings, and uncertainty around U.S. rate moves. Sector-wise drag/gain: Financials led the decline—Axis Bank, HDFC, Kotak Mahindra took the brunt—while metals outperformed. IT firm Wipro bucked the trend, surging ~4% post-earnings. Stocks to watch: Top picks include Wipro, Ceat, Axis Bank, LTIMindtree, and IHCL amid range-bound trading. Commodities & Rates Gold steadies, constrained by a strong U.S. dollar. Analysts suggest a ...

Current Affairs (17th July, 2025)

India 1. Indian Army to get three Apache helicopters Three advanced AH‑64E Apache attack helicopters from the U.S. will arrive at Hindon AFS near the Pakistan border on July 21, 2025, bolstering offensive and reconnaissance capabilities. 2. Delhi hit by hoax bomb threats Between July 14–16, nine schools and a college in Delhi received bomb threat emails, forcing evacuations and tightened security as police and cybercrime teams launch investigations. 3. AICC to host OBC conference Congress is convening a national-level “OBC Justice and Participation Conference” on July 25 in Delhi, focusing on caste-based census, equitable representation, economic disparity, inflation, and unemployment. 4. Retail inflation lowest in years India’s June CPI dropped to a six-year low; homeowners expect the RBI to ease rates and dollar‑rupee forward premiums are falling amid divergent U.S. and Indian inflation outlooks. 5. Green Hydrogen Summit kicks off Andhra Pradesh will host the Green Hydrogen Summ...

SmartPhones News (16th July, 2025)

Major Smartphone Launches Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 & Flip 7 Series Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Z Flip 7 series at its July Unpacked event. The Fold 7 is the slimmest and lightest foldable yet, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and Android 16 with One UI 8. It launches globally on July 25, starting at $1,999.99. Realme 15 Series Set to debut in India on July 24, the Realme 15 and 15 Pro will feature a massive 7,000 mAh battery, AI-powered "Edit Genie" tools, and upgraded chipsets. iQOO Z10R Launching in India on July 24, the iQOO Z10R will offer a 32MP selfie camera, Dimensity 7400 chip, and is expected to be priced under ₹20,000. Samsung Galaxy F36 Scheduled for release in India on July 19, the Galaxy F36 aims to deliver a premium design at an affordable price point below ₹20,000. Deals & Discounts Apple iPhone 16 The iPhone 16 (128GB, Black) is now available for just ₹30,325 on Amazon India, thanks to exchange and bank offers. Originally ...

Tech News (14th July, 2025)

Artificial Intelligence & Big Tech SpaceX Invests $2B in xAI: SpaceX is injecting $2 billion into its AI startup, xAI, intensifying competition in the artificial intelligence sector. Meta Acquires PlayAI: Meta has acquired voice AI startup PlayAI, signaling a strategic move to enhance its AI capabilities. Consumer Tech & Automotive CarPlay Enhancements: Apple's CarPlay now supports video apps, including NFL streaming, enhancing in-car entertainment options. Android Auto Bug Persists: A longstanding bug affecting Google Maps on Android Auto remains unresolved, prompting users to seek alternative navigation apps. Science & Innovation Exoplanet Atmosphere Mapped: The European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope has achieved the first 3D mapping of an exoplanet's atmosphere, revealing complex weather patterns on WASP-121b. Microsoft's Quantum Leap: Microsoft unveiled Majorana 1, a quantum chip based on topological qubits, aiming to solve comp...

Sports News (12th July, 2025)

Cricket: England vs India – Third Test at Lord’s The third Test between England and India is underway at Lord's, with the series tied at 1-1. England, captained by Ben Stokes, won the toss and chose to bat, going on to score 387, with Joe Root achieving his 37th Test century and breaking another all-time Test record. England managed to claim three Indian wickets by day two. A major highlight is the return of fast bowler Jofra Archer, marking his first Test appearance since 2021 due to a series of injuries. Athletics: Neeraj Chopra’s Stellar Season Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra continues his impressive season, having breached the 90m mark with a 90.23m throw at the Doha Diamond League. He also clinched victories at the Paris Diamond League and the Ostrava Golden Spike event. Notably, Chopra won the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic in Panchkula with an 86.18m throw, in front of 15,000 home fans. Chess: Vantika Agrawal Upsets Former World Champion Indian chess player Vantika ...

Current Affairs (11th July, 2025)

National News Punjab Tops PARAKH Survey 2024: The Ministry of Education released the 'PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024', assessing 21.15 lakh students across 36 states and UTs. Punjab emerged as the top performer in this comprehensive learning assessment. Aspirational DMF Programme Launched: Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy introduced the 'Aspirational District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Programme' to align DMF initiatives with the Aspirational District Programme, aiming for targeted development in mining-affected areas. SEBI Proposes Expanded Credit Rating Scope: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) proposed allowing credit rating agencies to assess financial instruments regulated by other financial sector regulators, aiming to broaden the scope of credit assessments. International News India's Balanced Approach on Afghanistan at UN: India abstained from voting on a UN General Assembly draft resolution on Afghanistan, emphasizing a balanced approach...

Geopolitical News (9th June, 2025)

Global Geopolitical Highlights πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ U.S. Tariff Measures Stir Global Trade Tensions President Donald Trump's administration has announced steep tariffs ranging from 25% to 40% on imports from six Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Vietnam secured a reduced rate of 20% through negotiations. These tariffs are set to take effect on August 1, prompting concerns over escalating trade wars and their impact on global markets. πŸ‡²πŸ‡Ύ Malaysia Advocates for Stronger ASEAN Trade Amid Uncertainty In response to the looming U.S. tariffs, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for enhanced intra-ASEAN trade cooperation. He emphasized the need for regional unity to mitigate the adverse effects of external economic pressures and to strengthen the bloc's resilience against global trade fragmentation. πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡Ί EU-China Summit Faces Challenges The upcoming EU-China summit is expected to yield limited outcomes, with reports indicating that Chinese Pr...

Sports News (8th July, 2025)

Football Transfer News: Tottenham Hotspur have signed centre-back Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale. Arsenal are close to acquiring Christian Norgaard from Brentford, and Newcastle United are finalizing a deal worth up to £60 million for Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest. Club World Cup Semifinals: Chelsea faces Fluminense today at MetLife Stadium, with tickets starting at $45. Tomorrow, Paris Saint-Germain will play Real Madrid, with tickets starting at $246. Pre-Season Friendly: Celtic will play Cork City tonight in Ireland as part of their pre-season preparations. Basketball NBA Summer League: Utah Jazz rookie Ace Bailey impressed with 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists in a win over the Memphis Grizzlies. College Commitment: Four-star prospect Trey Thompson has committed to the Iowa Hawkeyes for the 2026 season, reclassifying to join earlier. Cricket India's Olympic Bid: India has submitted a multi-city bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics, with cricket propose...

Current Affairs (7th July, 2025)

National News 1. Confusion Over Ashura Holiday There is widespread confusion among students, parents, and employees across India regarding a potential public holiday on Monday, July 7, for Ashura. Schools and colleges are awaiting state orders as the situation remains unclear. 2. Indian Bank and PNB Remove Minimum Balance Charges Indian Bank and Punjab National Bank (PNB) have removed penalties for not maintaining minimum balance in savings accounts. The changes took effect in July 2025. 3. Union Minister Amit Shah Inaugurates Projects in Pune On July 4, 2025, Union Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the PHRC Health City project in Pune, Maharashtra. He also inaugurated other development projects, including the installation of an equestrian statue and the development of the Jairaj Sports & Convention Centre. International News 1. Reuters' X Account Unblocked in India International news agency Reuters' X account was withheld in India for a few hours b...