All posts by admin

Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman to retain their combustion engines

**Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman to Retain Combustion Engines**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 20, 2025, 06:46 PM*

**What’s the Story?**

Porsche has announced a significant shift in its electric vehicle strategy. The next-generation 718 Boxster and Cayman models will continue to offer combustion engine options for their “top” variants. This move aligns with the automaker’s broader plan to revamp the combustion engine and plug-in hybrid versions of the Cayenne and Panamera, ensuring these models remain relevant well into the 2030s, according to Porsche CEO Oliver Blume.

**Strategic Shift and Financial Impact**

As part of this strategy, Porsche will halt the development of the SSP 61 ‘Sport’ version of Volkswagen Group’s platform, resulting in a €1.8 billion financial hit. Originally, this platform was intended to support the K1 large SUV, along with electric successors for the Panamera and Taycan. Blume explained that the decision reflects a “clear drop in demand for exclusive battery-electric cars.”

**Update on the K1 Model**

The much-anticipated K1, described by Porsche as a ‘D-SUV,’ will now launch with combustion engine and plug-in hybrid variants instead of being fully electric. However, the company has not disclosed a specific launch date for this model. The change in plans follows a noticeable decline in luxury good demand in China, coupled with the US’s imposition of higher tariffs on imported vehicles.

**Financial Outlook**

These combined challenges are expected to reduce Porsche’s predicted net profit margin to around 2% for the current year. Nevertheless, the company remains optimistic about the medium-term outlook, aiming to boost margins above 10% with the introduction of new products.

Blume emphasized the company’s confidence in its revised approach:
*”This flexibility gives us a strong position with a compelling mix of combustion engines, plug-in hybrids, and battery electric vehicles.”*

With this strategic pivot, Porsche is balancing tradition and innovation to adapt to shifting market demands while maintaining its renowned performance legacy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/porsche-to-offer-combustion-engines-in-next-gen-718-models/story

UAAP: Jacob Cortez, La Salle escape Adamson to open title defense

La Salle weathered a determined challenge by Adamson and came away with a 60-58 victory to open its title redemption bid in the UAAP Season 88 men’s basketball tournament. The thrilling game took place on Saturday at the University of Santo Tomas Quadricentennial Pavilion.

In his debut, Jacob Cortez delivered a standout performance. He scored a pivotal go-ahead layup and made a crucial pass that led to key points for La Salle, helping secure the narrow win.
https://sports.inquirer.net/640979/uaap-jacob-cortez-la-salle-escape-adamson-to-open-title-defense

Trump’s new visa policy could hit India’s real estate market

**Trump’s New Visa Policy Could Impact India’s Real Estate Market**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 07:13 PM*

US President Donald Trump has introduced a new visa policy that is set to influence India’s real estate market significantly. Starting September 21, 2025, a hefty $100,000 annual fee will be imposed on most H-1B visa petitions. This development is expected to impact the residential property segment in Indian metro cities notably, while the commercial real estate sector might experience different effects, particularly through the operations of Global Capability Centres (GCCs).

### Major Impact on Indian Metro Cities

In the fiscal year 2024, over 71% of H-1B visa approvals went to Indian nationals. Experts believe that the new fee will discourage US onsite deployments and reduce overseas hiring. This shift could directly affect remittance-driven home buying and long-term housing decisions among Indian tech professionals.

Real estate specialists warn that cities such as Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Gurugram are especially vulnerable to a slowdown due to this policy change.

### Housing Market Risks

Industry experts have highlighted three primary risks to India’s residential real estate market due to this policy:

– A decline in demand for premium housing.
– Delays in property purchase decisions as US relocations get postponed.
– Slower absorption of mid-to-high-end residential projects targeted at technology sector buyers.

A real estate consultant based in the Delhi NCR region noted that the sudden increase in visa costs is likely to dampen the sentiments of families planning overseas relocations, which could reduce property investments back home.

### The Role of Remittances in Housing Demand

Pareekh Jain, CEO of Pareekh Consulting, pointed out that remittances have been a major driver of housing demand in India. Although primary housing demand may rise due to some individuals returning from the US or moving to Indian metros, overall investment demand in the real estate sector is expected to weaken amid reduced remittances and increased job insecurity.

Similarly, Vishal Raheja, Founder and MD of InvestoXpert, emphasized that the increased H-1B visa fee is likely to affect housing demand negatively.

### Potential Boost for Commercial Real Estate

Despite challenges facing the residential sector, commercial real estate might see a potential upswing. American companies may accelerate the growth of their Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India as they rethink staffing strategies in response to the new visa costs.

Indian metro cities could witness increased leasing of office spaces and expanded infrastructure development driven by this shift. According to data from CBRE, GCCs currently account for 35-40% of office space absorption in major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune.

### Shifting Global Investment Patterns

As developers, buyers, and investors adapt to these new conditions, India’s real estate market is likely to experience a shift towards mid-segment housing and rental ecosystems.

Akash Puri from India Sotheby’s International Realty noted that higher H-1B visa costs might encourage top Indian talent to explore luxury real estate markets in other global cities. This dynamic could create fresh demand for real estate markets that offer greater stability and enhanced lifestyle options.

The new H-1B visa fee represents a significant shift with wide-ranging consequences for India’s housing and commercial property sectors. Stakeholders will need to closely monitor these trends and adjust their strategies accordingly.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/trump-s-h-1b-fee-threatens-india-s-property-boom-in-tech-hubs/story

Trump’s new visa policy could hit India’s real estate market

**Trump’s New Visa Policy Could Impact India’s Real Estate Market**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 07:13 PM*

**Overview**

US President Donald Trump has introduced a new visa policy that could significantly affect India’s real estate market. Beginning September 21, 2025, an annual $100,000 fee will be imposed on most H-1B visa petitions. This move is expected to influence primarily the residential property market in major Indian metro cities, while the commercial real estate sector may experience distinct effects, especially through Global Capability Centres (GCCs).

**Market Impact on Indian Cities**

With over 71% of H-1B approvals in fiscal year 2024 granted to Indian nationals, experts anticipate that the new fee will discourage onsite deployments and reduce overseas hiring. This shift could profoundly impact remittance-backed home buying and long-term housing decisions among technology professionals.

Real estate analysts warn that cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, and Gurugram could witness a downturn due to this policy change.

**Housing Forecast: Three Key Risks**

Industry experts have identified three major risks to the residential real estate market caused by the new visa fee:

1. A decline in demand for premium housing.
2. Delayed purchase decisions resulting from postponed relocations to the US.
3. Slower absorption rates of mid-to-high-end projects targeting tech-sector buyers.

A Delhi NCR-based real estate consultant highlighted that the sudden spike in visa costs is likely to dampen sentiment among overseas-bound families who were relying on US assignments for property investments back home.

**Investment Shifts: Remittances Driving Housing Demand**

Pareekh Jain, CEO of Pareekh Consulting, emphasized that remittances play a crucial role in driving housing demand in India. He predicts that while primary housing demand may see growth as some professionals return from the US or relocate to Indian metros, overall investment demand in real estate is expected to weaken due to lower remittances and increased job insecurity.

Vishal Raheja, Founder & MD of InvestoXpert, echoed these concerns, stating that the proposed H-1B visa fee could dampen housing demand among Indian buyers.

**Commercial Real Estate: A Potential Boost**

Despite challenges in the residential sector, the commercial real estate market may find new opportunities. The expansion of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) might accelerate as American companies restructure their staffing strategies to minimize overseas costs.

Indian cities could experience increased office space leasing and infrastructure development as a result. According to CBRE data, GCCs currently account for 35-40% of office space absorption in metros like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Pune.

**Uncertainty and Shifting Investment Patterns**

As developers, buyers, and investors adapt to these developments, India’s real estate market is likely to see a pivot toward mid-segment housing and rental ecosystems.

Akash Puri from India Sotheby’s International Realty observed that higher H-1B costs could prompt top Indian talent to explore global cities for luxury real estate investments. This shift is expected to fuel fresh demand in markets offering stability and lifestyle benefits.

**Conclusion**

The new H-1B visa fee introduced by the US government is poised to reshape India’s real estate landscape, with mixed effects across residential and commercial sectors. While residential properties in tech-centric metro cities may face challenges, commercial real estate, propelled by GCC growth, could witness new momentum. Stakeholders will need to navigate this evolving environment carefully to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/trump-s-h-1b-fee-threatens-india-s-property-boom-in-tech-hubs/story

3rd WODI, Beth Mooney slams career-best 138 versus India: Stats

By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 20, 2025, 05:39 PM

**Beth Mooney’s Majestic 138 Powers Australia in 3rd ODI Against India**

Australia women’s cricket team batter Beth Mooney delivered a sublime performance, smashing a magnificent 138-run knock against India in the 3rd and final ODI at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi.

Mooney walked to the crease when Australia were 150/2 in the 22nd over. She immediately took charge and shared crucial partnerships throughout her innings—a 106-run stand with Ellyse Perry, 82 with Ashleigh Gardner, and an additional 40 runs with Tahlia McGrath. Australia posted a formidable total of 379/6 when Mooney’s innings came to an end.

### Mooney Powers Australia with a Blazing Hundred

The quality of Mooney’s 138-run innings was outstanding. She reached her century in just 57 balls during the 38th over, showcasing aggressive intent and maintaining the momentum provided by Australia’s top order. Throughout her innings, Mooney remained unflappable, expertly maneuvering the ball and putting the Indian bowlers under constant pressure.

Unfortunately, her innings was cut short by a run-out in the 45th over, shortly after the dismissal of McGrath.

### Did You Know?
**Joint-2nd Fastest Hundred in Women’s ODIs**
Beth Mooney’s 57-ball century equals the joint-2nd fastest century in Women’s ODIs. She matched former Aussie star Karen Rolton, who also reached 100 in 57 balls against South Africa in 2000. The record for the fastest ton is held by Meg Lanning, who scored her century in just 45 balls against New Zealand in 2012.

### Stats That Impress

– Mooney’s 138 came off 75 balls.
– She struck 23 fours and 1 six during her innings.
– Playing her 85th WODI (78 innings), Mooney has now amassed 2,786 runs at an impressive average of 49.75.
– This innings was her 4th WODI century, in addition to 19 half-centuries.

Against India specifically, Mooney has been in splendid form. According to ESPNcricinfo, she has scored 698 runs in 18 matches (16 innings) at an average of 58.16, including two centuries and four fifties.

### More Milestones

– This was Mooney’s 9th fifty-plus score in away WODI matches (away from her home ground). In 36 away matches (33 innings), she has accumulated 1,212 runs at an average of 44.88, including 2 centuries and 7 fifties.

### Records Broken

**Highest Individual Score for Australia Against India**
According to ESPNcricinfo, Mooney’s 138 is now the highest individual score by an Australian batter against India in Women’s ODIs. She surpassed the previous best of 133 runs set by Alyssa Healy in 2018.

Beth Mooney’s scintillating innings not only set up a commanding total for Australia but also cemented her place among the elite batters in women’s cricket history.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/beth-mooney-slams-hundred-versus-india-in-3rd-women-s-odi/story

FIVB Men’s World: Turkiye books first-ever trip to quarterfinals

MANILA, Philippines — Adis Lagumdzija erupted for 28 points to send Turkiye to its first-ever FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinal after ousting the Netherlands, 27-29, 25-23, 25-16, 25-19, on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

After a round of 16 exit at the hands of the USA in 2022, Turkiye made its breakthrough to advance further in the tournament this year.

https://sports.inquirer.net/640962/fivb-mens-world-turkiye-books-first-ever-trip-to-quarterfinals

Trump’s new visa policy could hit India’s real estate market

US President Donald Trump has introduced a new visa policy that could have significant implications for India’s real estate market.

This policy change is expected to influence investment flows and the behavior of non-resident Indians (NRIs) looking to purchase property in India. Experts suggest that any alterations in visa norms can directly affect the demand and pricing within the real estate sector.

Stakeholders in the Indian real estate market are closely monitoring the situation to assess potential impacts and adjust their strategies accordingly. Further updates on the policy and its effects are awaited.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/trump-s-h-1b-fee-threatens-india-s-property-boom-in-tech-hubs/story

Trump’s H-1B fee will drive start-ups to India: Amitabh Kant

**Trump’s New H-1B Visa Fee Will Drive Start-Ups to India: Amitabh Kant**

*By Akash Pandey | September 20, 2025, 03:07 PM*

Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, has voiced strong opinions regarding US President Donald Trump’s newly announced H-1B visa policy. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Kant highlighted that the proposed $100,000 annual fee per H-1B visa worker would stifle innovation within the United States while providing a significant boost to India’s rapidly growing startup ecosystem.

According to Kant, by effectively shutting its doors to global talent, America risks shifting technology labs and startups to Indian cities such as Bangalore, Pune, Gurugram, and Hyderabad. He emphasized that this policy shift presents a unique opportunity for India’s top doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators to contribute meaningfully to the country’s developmental goals.

### An Opportunity for a ‘Viksit Bharat’

Kant described the new US visa restrictions as a potential catalyst for India’s ambition to become a developed nation—often referred to as ‘Viksit Bharat’. With Indian professionals historically dominating the H-1B visa program, the move could propel domestic innovation and entrepreneurship at home.

Last year, Indian nationals accounted for approximately 71% of approved H-1B visa beneficiaries, according to official government data. This statistic underscores the pivotal role Indian talent has played in shaping the US technology landscape.

### Understanding the New H-1B Policy

The Trump administration’s executive order aims to curb abuses of the H-1B program and prioritize American workers. The new rules apply to both new applications and renewals, introducing a steep $100,000 annual fee per skilled worker under the visa program. Additionally, a “gold card” program has been launched, offering expedited visas for wealthy investors willing to invest up to $2 million in the US economy.

Major technology companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have historically received thousands of H-1B approvals under the previous rules, leveraging global talent to drive growth.

### Potential Impact on US Industries

These changes, which take effect from September 21, 2025, could severely affect several crucial sectors in the US, including healthcare, higher education, and technology. The steep fees may deter companies from hiring skilled international workers, potentially leading to talent shortages.

While the new policy is expected to face legal challenges, if upheld, it would significantly increase the cost of employing foreign professionals under the H-1B program.

### Global Talent Shift: ‘America’s Loss, India’s Gain’

Amitabh Kant’s remarks serve as a strong endorsement of India’s ability to fill the innovation void that might be created by America’s tighter immigration rules. He stated, “America’s loss will be India’s gain,” underscoring the vast pool of Indian doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators who are now positioned to contribute substantially to India’s growth story.

As the H-1B program remains a critical gateway for Indian engineers and professionals impacting the global tech industry, the evolving US visa landscape could reshape the innovation map, favoring India’s burgeoning technology hubs.

*Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth analyses on global tech and policy shifts.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-s-h-1b-fee-hurts-us-but-helps-india-amitabh-kant/story

Trump’s H-1B fee will drive start-ups to India: Amitabh Kant

**Trump’s H-1B Fee Will Drive Start-ups to India: Amitabh Kant**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 20, 2025, 03:07 PM*

Amitabh Kant, former G20 Sherpa and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog, has voiced strong opinions on the recent changes to the US H-1B visa policy introduced by President Donald Trump. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kant highlighted that the newly imposed $100,000 annual fee for each H-1B visa worker could stifle innovation in the United States while accelerating growth in India.

According to Kant, America’s decision to restrict global talent inflow is effectively pushing research labs and start-ups to Indian cities such as Bangalore, Pune, Gurugram, and Hyderabad. This shift, he argues, presents India with a unique opportunity to boost its innovation ecosystem and move closer to realizing the vision of *Viksit Bharat* (Developed India).

**Opportunity for India’s Talent**

Kant emphasized that India’s top doctors, engineers, scientists, and innovators now have an unprecedented chance to lead the nation’s development in technology and innovation. Given that Indian professionals have been significant beneficiaries of the H-1B visa program—accounting for 71% of approvals last year—this policy shift could redirect global talent and investment back to India.

**Understanding the H-1B Visa Changes**

The new H-1B visa rules, effective from September 21, 2025, aim to curb abuses within the program while prioritizing American workers. Besides the steep $100,000 annual fee per visa worker, the policy introduces a “gold card” program designed to attract wealthy investors who can make expedited visa applications by investing up to $2 million in the US.

Major US tech companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta have historically utilized the H-1B program extensively, with thousands of approvals under the previous regulations. The updated policy changes could have significant repercussions across America’s healthcare, higher education, and technology industries due to increased costs and stricter requirements.

**Impact and Industry Response**

While the new rules could face legal challenges, if upheld, they may compel companies to rethink their international hiring strategies, potentially reducing opportunities for skilled global workers in the US market. The steep fees could discourage start-ups and innovation hubs from building operations stateside.

**Global Shift: ‘America’s Loss Is India’s Gain’**

Summarizing his views, Amitabh Kant stated, “America’s loss will be India’s gain.” He further praised India’s pool of talented professionals, noting they are well-equipped to fill the innovation gap left by the US’s restrictive approach.

As India stands ready to harness this opportunity, the global technology landscape could see a significant pivot toward Indian innovation centers, reshaping the future of start-ups and research worldwide.

*For more updates on international policies and tech innovation, stay tuned.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-s-h-1b-fee-hurts-us-but-helps-india-amitabh-kant/story

BMW crash case: Court defers Gaganpreet Kaur’s bail hearing

**BMW Crash Case: Court Defers Gaganpreet Kaur’s Bail Hearing**

*By Snehil Singh | September 20, 2025, 3:07 PM*

A Delhi court has postponed the bail hearing of Gaganpreet Kaur, the prime accused in a fatal BMW accident that resulted in the death of Deputy Secretary Navjot Singh and injuries to his wife, Sandeep.

The hearing in the Patiala House Court has been deferred to September 24 after the police requested additional time to collect key pieces of evidence, including Kaur’s mobile phone and driving license. Investigators informed Judicial Magistrate Ankit Garg that they oppose granting bail at this stage since the probe is still in its early phases.

**Evidence Collection Underway**

Kaur’s phone, currently held by her husband Parikshit Makkad, is considered crucial for the investigation. The police revealed that the device contains important messages sent after the crash. Makkad is expected to hand over the phone to authorities shortly.

Meanwhile, Gaganpreet Kaur remains in judicial custody until September 27. She faces charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and rash driving related to the accident.

**Preservation of CCTV Footage**

The court has also issued a notice on an application seeking the preservation of CCTV footage from the accident site. On Thursday, the court observed that there is no legal provision for sharing such footage with the accused in a criminal case.

The police have registered cases under several penal provisions, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, rash driving, and negligent driving, following the incident.

**Details of the Incident**

The accident occurred on September 14 around 1:00 PM near Dhaula Kuan. Navjot Singh and his wife were riding a motorcycle back from Bangla Sahib Gurdwara when they were struck by Kaur’s BMW. Parikshit Makkad was seated in the passenger seat of the BMW at the time of the crash.

Authorities are also investigating possible attempts to tamper with evidence after the accident. This includes probing Kaur’s alleged visit to a hospital located nearly 19 kilometers away from the accident site.

The investigation continues as the court awaits further developments before proceeding with the bail hearing.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-bmw-crash-court-postpones-bail-hearing-to-september-24/story