Category Archives: business

business, economy, finance, stock market

Weekly Market Review & Top Stocks In Focus For The Week Ended October 3, 2025

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**Weekly Market Review: September 2025**

Last week, the markets experienced a significant downturn, breaking a 3-week winning streak. The downward momentum continued during the truncated week until the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting outcome was announced, which lifted market sentiment.

The decline in indices was primarily driven by multiple factors: foreign institutional selling with more than $22 billion withdrawn from the Indian market since the beginning of 2025, restrictions on US H-1B visas, President Trump’s announcement of a 100% tariff on the import of branded and patented pharmaceutical products, delays in the US-India trade agreement, a record low rupee, uncertainty ahead of the September quarter earnings, and liquidity constraints in the secondary market. The liquidity pressure was further compounded by a slew of new IPOs entering Dalal Street, with the most talked-about being the Tata Capital IPO.

### RBI MPC Meeting: A Market Roller Coaster

Mid-week, the markets witnessed a roller-coaster ride following the RBI MPC meeting. The RBI Governor decided to keep repo rates unchanged at 5.50%. As communicated earlier, the chances of a rate cut during this meeting were minimal due to low inflation and strong GDP growth figures in Q1FY26.

While rates were unchanged, the highlight was the RBI Governor’s commentary. The Governor projected a favorable growth-inflation outlook while maintaining the policy stance. Optimism surged as the RBI lowered its inflation forecast from 3.1% to 2.6% and raised GDP growth expectations from 6.5% to 6.8%.

Supportive factors included strong September auto sales and robust GST collections that rose over 9% to Rs 1.9 lakh crore. This upbeat sentiment propelled the Sensex to rally over 700 points, with the Nifty closing above the 24,800 mark—ending a 9-day losing streak.

Additional positives that buoyed the market were measures aimed at improving liquidity, speculation of a possible rate cut in December, NBFCs being granted infrastructure status, and Brent crude prices falling to a 4-month low, which should further support market performance.

### Looking Ahead: Q2FY26 Earnings and Economic Data

As we approach the Q2FY26 earnings season, provisional business updates from banks, NBFCs, realty, and FMCG sectors will be closely monitored. Despite the noise around global and local markets, we remain optimistic over the medium to long term. Recent GST cuts have boosted positive sentiment across sectors, which is expected to accelerate volume growth alongside GDP expansion in the coming period.

—

### How Did the Markets Fare Last Week?

For the week ending Friday, Indian benchmark indices closed in green. The Sensex and Nifty gained close to 1% each, with midcap stocks outperforming by rising approximately 2.1%.

—

### What Might Keep Markets Busy Next Week?

The upcoming week will be eventful with several key economic data releases from both domestic and global markets, expected to influence market direction.

**Domestic Data to Watch:**
– Foreign Exchange (FX) Reserves
– Bank Loan Growth
– HSBC Composite, Manufacturing, and Services PMI

In addition, as the September quarter earnings season gears up, leading companies from FMCG, banking, and select sectors will release business updates for Q2FY26. These updates will be essential to gauge the earnings expectations for the full season ahead.

**Global Events to Track:**
– Speeches from Federal Reserve officials
– US Nonfarm Payrolls
– FOMC Minutes (critical for policy outlook)
– Initial Jobless Claims

Progress in India-US trade talks and any tariff-related commentary from President Trump will also keep markets engaged. Furthermore, foreign institutional investment flows remain an important variable to monitor in the near term.

—

### Crude and FII Flows

Brent crude oil prices declined to $64 per barrel ahead of an OPEC+ meeting anticipated to see the return of more idled barrels, raising concerns about oversupply. Meanwhile, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) continued to be net sellers throughout the week.

—

### Sector in Focus: Metals, PSU Banks & Realty

These sectors remained in the spotlight during the week, attracting investor attention due to ongoing corporate developments and government policies.

—

### Stocks That Remained in Focus

**Sammaan Capital:**
Avenir Investment plans to invest Rs 8,850 crore via shares and warrants at Rs 139 per share, an 18% discount to the current market price. Post-investment, Avenir will hold a 43.46% stake and make an open offer, with Rs 4,587 crore invested through shares and the balance through warrants in two tranches.

**Maruti Suzuki:**
Maruti Suzuki sold 1,89,665 units in September 2025, aligning with estimates. Exports hit a record 42,204 units—up 52% year-on-year (YoY), although domestic sales fell 6.3%. Production rose 26% YoY to 2.01 lakh units due to strong passenger vehicle output. The company highlighted record festive demand, with 1,65,000 deliveries made in the first eight days of Navratri and daily bookings increasing by 50% after recent price cuts. Exports in H1FY26 crossed 2.1 lakh units, including over 6,000 electric vehicles shipped in August–September.

**Lemon Tree Hotels:**
Lemon Tree Hotels announced the signing of its latest property, Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels in Haridwar, featuring 52 rooms, a restaurant, conference hall, and a fitness center. This signing expands Lemon Tree’s leisure portfolio in Uttarakhand, where it currently operates 8 properties with 9 more upcoming.

**KNR Construction:**
The company received a Letter of Acceptance from Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation for constructing two 3-lane flyovers on NH65 at Kukatpally “Y” junction, Telangana. The EPC/Turnkey project is valued at Rs 72.80 crore (excluding GST) with a 24-month construction timeline.

**Unimech Aerospace:**
The company provided business updates indicating a revenue slowdown for Q2FY26, expected to be marginally lower than Q1. This is mainly due to US tariffs impacting export realizations, causing customers to delay orders. Profit pressures were also noted, making it challenging to meet the full-year FY26 revenue guidance.

**Nestlé India:**
Nestlé India signed an MoU with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries to accelerate investments in greenfield and brownfield projects in Odisha and existing manufacturing sites. These investments over the next 2-3 years reaffirm the company’s commitment to India’s food processing sector and are expected to generate employment, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

**Time Technoplast:**
The company secured the BIS License under IS 14885:2022 for manufacturing PE pipes used in gas distribution within Q2FY26. This milestone will boost market presence and support sustainable infrastructure growth. The company targets 20+ gas distribution firms, expecting 30% growth in the PE pipe segment.

**RITES:**
RITES signed an MoU with Etihad Rail and its UAE-based subsidiary NICC to collaborate on mobility infrastructure projects in the UAE and beyond. This partnership leverages RITES’ 50 years of expertise and strengthens its global presence under the ‘RITES Videsh’ initiative.

**PN Gadgil Jewellers:**
Achieved record festive sales of ₹618 crore during Navratri and Dussehra, marking a 65% YoY increase. Navratri sales were ₹428 crore (+66% YoY) and Dussehra set a single-day record of ₹190 crore (+64% YoY). Gold was the major growth driver despite a 50% surge in gold prices, alongside strong diamond and silver sales. Volume growth was notable across all categories.

**Bharat Electronics (BEL):**
BEL secured additional orders worth Rs 1,092 crore since mid-September, including EW System upgrades, defence network enhancements, tank subsystems, communication equipment, EVM supplies, and services. As of April 1, BEL’s order book stood at Rs 71,650 crore. Since FY26 began, BEL has disclosed orders worth Rs 7,348 crore, representing 27% of its full-year order inflow guidance of Rs 27,000 crore. This excludes a significant quick-reaction surface-to-air missile order valued at Rs 30,000 crore.

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### Closing Thoughts

Patience creates wealth! Despite short-term volatility, the medium to long-term outlook remains positive, driven by supportive policy measures, improving macroeconomic indicators, and robust corporate performance. We will continue to monitor market developments and keep you updated.

—

*Stay tuned for more insights in our next weekly market review.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/weekly-market-review-top-stocks-in-focus-for-the-week-ended-october-3-2025

business, environment, housing, renewable energy, technology

Renewable energy firm to develop 2,000-acre solar project near Phoenix, powering 70,000 homes

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A renewable energy company plans to develop more than 2,000 acres near Phoenix for a utility-scale solar energy project aimed at generating power for around 70,000 Arizona homes.

A subsidiary of California-based Avantus Clean Energy expects to begin construction in the fall of 2026 on its Pinyon Solar Project. The development will feature the latest solar technology alongside battery storage facilities to help ensure a reliable energy supply.

The project site is strategically located south of State Route 238, west of State Route 347, and north of Interstate 8. Avantus anticipates that construction will take approximately 18 months, with completion targeted for early 2028.

“We selected this location to minimize impacts both on the surrounding environment and local communities,” said Colin Mann, director of permitting, in a statement shared with Phoenix Business Journal.

An important factor in choosing the site is its proximity to the nearby Pinal West Substation. This allows the project to connect to Arizona’s electrical grid without the need for extensive infrastructure buildout, reducing costs and potential disruptions.

The Pinyon Solar Project represents a significant step forward in expanding renewable energy capacity in Arizona, supporting the state’s clean energy goals while delivering sustainable power to thousands of homes.
https://ktar.com/arizona-business/pinyon-solar-project/5757507/

business, energy, environment, infrastructure, technology

Aboitiz-Vivant-Vena JV to build Northern Samar transmission assets

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MANILA, Philippines — Lihangin Wind Energy Corp. (LWEC) will build point-to-point transmission facilities to directly connect its wind park in Northern Samar to the power grid.

LWEC secured approval from the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on Thursday for its proposed project. The project involves the development of its own point-to-point transmission facilities for its 206.25-megawatt San Isidro Wind Power Plant.
https://business.inquirer.net/550606/aboitiz-vivant-vena-jv-to-build-northern-samar-transmission-assets

business, entertainment, soccer, sports

New York Red Bulls vs Cincinnati Prediction and Betting Tips | 4th October 2025

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New York Red Bulls Host Cincinnati at Red Bull Arena in Key MLS Clash

This Saturday, the New York Red Bulls will host FC Cincinnati at the Red Bull Arena in a crucial MLS matchup as they seek only their 13th win of the 2025 season. The Red Bulls come into the game following a narrow 3-2 defeat against their city rivals, New York City FC. Despite mounting two comebacks during the match, a decisive goal from Thiago Martins in the 65th minute ultimately sealed their fate.

Currently, New York Red Bulls sit 10th in the Eastern Conference with 43 points from 32 games, having already been eliminated from playoff contention.

On the other side, FC Cincinnati holds second place with 59 points, just four shy of league leaders Philadelphia Union, with two matches remaining. The Orange and Blue are aiming to overtake the Union but will need some help, as Philadelphia must slip up for Cincinnati to have a shot at reaching the top spot.

Cincinnati’s recent form has improved after consecutive losses to New York City and Philadelphia. They have since gone unbeaten in their last three league games, registering wins over Nashville and LA Galaxy and a draw with Orlando City.

**Head-to-Head & Key Stats**
The two teams have met 19 times historically, with each side claiming eight wins. Cincinnati defeated the Red Bulls in their most recent encounter and are looking to secure back-to-back victories against New York for the first time since 2020 (excluding a 2023 penalty shootout win).

New York Red Bulls have managed only one victory in their last five MLS games. Meanwhile, Cincinnati remains unbeaten in their past three league matches. Interestingly, although Cincinnati ranks second in the Eastern Conference, they have the lowest goal tally (48) among the top nine teams.

**Match Prediction**
Overall, Cincinnati has enjoyed a stronger campaign this season and enters this fixture in better form. The Red Bulls have struggled consistently and may face a tough challenge against an in-form Cincinnati side.

**Predicted Score:**
New York Red Bulls 1 – 2 Cincinnati

**Betting Tips:**
– Result: Cincinnati to win
– Goals Over/Under 2.5: Over 2.5 goals
– Both Teams to Score: Yes

Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting matchup at Red Bull Arena!
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/new-york-red-bulls-vs-cincinnati-prediction-betting-tips-4th-october-2025

business, economy, government, politics, shutdown

45 Elon Musk DOGE staff still on White House payroll and exempt from shutdown

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Forty-five employees of Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) remain on the White House payroll despite the Tesla CEO’s exit in May, and they are not being furloughed under the current government shutdown.

This fact appears in a memo released on Thursday by the White House Office of Administration, which lays out who stays and who goes while Congress stalls on funding. It shows a clear picture: DOGE staff keep working while many other government workers sit at home without pay.

The memo does not say why these 45 DOGE workers are untouched, but their status stands out as other White House offices shrink. It also reveals how President Donald Trump is handling this shutdown differently from 2018. Trump has furloughed 514 fewer staffers this time than in the last shutdown under his watch.

In that earlier plan, which former President Joe Biden had also approved but never had to use, about 61% of the Executive Office of the President was temporarily laid off. This current plan hits only 32% of the staff. The result is that far more staffers remain on the job, but Trump is openly saying he wants to lay off federal workers outright instead of just sending them home temporarily. According to the White House, these cuts could reach the thousands.

### Trump Keeps DOGE Running During Shutdown

Among the offices still running at full capacity is DOGE, which Elon once led as a cost-cutting operation before falling out with Trump over the president’s deficit-expanding tax cut bill. Elon’s departure in May came with a White House statement saying DOGE had been decentralized, meaning its teams across the government would report to their agency heads instead of a single leader. But the shutdown plan proves otherwise.

It shows that 45 DOGE staffers still work in the US DOGE Service, a unit inside the Executive Office of the President. The memo, signed by Joshua Fisher, director of the White House Office of Administration, does not say why DOGE staffers escaped furloughs.

However, the US Digital Service—which preceded DOGE—had a history of staying open during past shutdowns because it had its own source of funding from fees charged to other agencies. This background raises questions about whether DOGE also benefits from a separate funding stream. For now, though, the memo just notes their exemption without an explanation.

### Fewer Furloughs in Other White House Offices

Other White House divisions also show big changes compared with 2018. The Office of Management and Budget now keeps 437 employees on duty, far more than the 161 retained under the earlier plan. A tax cut law known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” gave the budget office $100 million in long-term funding, which may help explain the difference.

The White House Office, which covers the president’s immediate staff, keeps 175 aides on the job now, compared with 156 during the last shutdown. Even the executive residence staff almost doubles to 40 retained workers under Trump’s plan.

At the same time, Trump officials signal they will use this funding lapse to cut or close programs they oppose, especially in states that voted for his opponent last year. The White House has threatened to fire thousands of federal employees permanently in the coming days, blaming the lack of congressional funding.

The White House press office also reportedly stayed silent when asked for comment by reporters, sending only an automated out-of-office reply. That message read:

> “Due to staff shortages resulting from the Democrat Shutdown, the typical 24/7 monitoring of this press inbox may experience delays. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

—

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https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/finance/45-elon-musk-doge-staff-still-on-white-house-payroll-and-exempt-from-shutdown/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=45-elon-musk-doge-staff-still-on-white-house-payroll-and-exempt-from-shutdown

ai, business, science, technology

New patent shows Gemini activates when phone nears your face

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**New Patent Reveals Gemini AI Assistant Activates When Phone Nears Your Face**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 06:50 PM*

Google is developing an innovative way to summon its AI assistant, Gemini, without the need for hotwords or pressing any buttons. According to a recent report by Android Headlines, this advancement comes from a newly filed patent by the tech giant.

### How the Technology Works

Modern smartphones use a capacitive sensor grid within their touchscreens to detect touches by monitoring changes in the electrical field. Google has discovered that these sensors can also sense nearby objects—even without physical contact—such as a user’s face or hand.

When a phone is brought close to a user’s mouth or face, the capacitive sensor grid detects a unique change in the electric field pattern. This distinct pattern signals the system that the user’s face is near, triggering Gemini to activate automatically.

### Benefits to Users

This new activation method offers several advantages. It proves especially useful in scenarios where traditional voice commands or button presses are challenging, such as when wearing a mask or in noisy environments.

Additionally, since it relies on low-power capacitive sensors, this system is energy-efficient and unlikely to drain your phone’s battery significantly.

The report also suggests that over time, this detection method could become smarter and more accurate, improving the overall user experience.

### What’s Next?

Despite the exciting potential of this technology, there is currently no information on when it might be released to Android users. The details are based solely on the patent filing, so it remains uncertain how or when Google plans to implement this feature in future smartphones.

For now, many devices still rely on a dedicated AI key or customizable button to manually activate Gemini.

Stay tuned for updates as this technology develops and moves closer to real-world application.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/google-is-working-on-new-way-to-summon-gemini/story

automotive, business, industry, sales, technology

Maruti Suzuki’s Victoris registers 25,000+ bookings: Check waiting period

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**Maruti Suzuki Victoris Registers Over 25,000 Bookings; Waiting Period Extends Up to 10 Weeks**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 03:29 PM*

Maruti Suzuki’s latest mid-size SUV, the **Victoris**, has received an overwhelming response since its launch just a few weeks ago. Available through the brand’s Arena dealerships, the vehicle has already garnered over **25,000 bookings** in just over two weeks, marking a strong debut for Maruti’s flagship offering under its Arena retail network.

### High Demand Pushes Waiting Period to 10 Weeks

The massive demand for the Victoris has led to a waiting period extending up to **10 weeks**. However, this timeline may vary depending on the variant, color preference, and the buyer’s region. The SUV is offered in **six main variants** and boasts **10 color options**, further supported by three engine choices and three transmission options to cater to diverse customer needs.

### Strategic Launch to Boost Festive Sales

The launch of the Maruti Suzuki Victoris is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the automaker’s presence in India’s competitive utility vehicle segment. Alongside existing models like the Fronx, Brezza, and Grand Vitara, the Victoris is expected to significantly boost Maruti’s sales during the festive season, aided by reduced GST rates and attractive festive offers.

### Performance and Engine Options

The Victoris impresses with a promising mileage of up to **28.65 km/l**. It comes equipped with three engine options:
– A **1,462cc K15C petrol engine** with strong hybrid technology,
– A petrol-CNG bi-fuel powertrain,
– A **1,490cc M15D petrol motor**.

The SUV also offers multiple transmission choices, including a five-speed manual gearbox, a six-speed automatic unit, and an e-CVT option on the strong hybrid variant. Depending on the engine and transmission selected, the fuel economy varies between **19.07 km/l and 28.65 km/l**.

### Competing in a Crowded Segment

The Maruti Suzuki Victoris takes on well-established rivals like the **Kia Seltos**, **Hyundai Creta**, and **Volkswagen Taigun**. With its diverse engine lineup, practical transmission options, and competitive pricing, the Victoris aims to carve out a significant share in the mid-size SUV market.

—

The Victoris’ rapid booking numbers and extended waiting list highlight Maruti Suzuki’s successful strategy and the model’s strong appeal among Indian customers looking for a versatile and efficient SUV this festive season.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-victoris-gets-25-000-bookings-in-2-weeks/story

automotive, business, holidays, india, sales

Maruti Suzuki hits decade high, delivers 1.65L vehicles this Navratri

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**Maruti Suzuki Hits Decade High, Delivers 1.65 Lakh Vehicles This Navratri**

*By Akash Pandey | Oct 03, 2025, 04:35 PM*

Maruti Suzuki has achieved a remarkable milestone by delivering a staggering 1.65 lakh vehicles in the first eight days of Navratri. This marks the first time in a decade that the company’s deliveries during the festive period have crossed the one-lakh mark, underscoring strong demand momentum. Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer for Marketing and Sales, shared these insights during an interview with CNBC TV18.

**Sales Strategy and Backlog Management**

At the start of October, Maruti Suzuki was managing a backlog of nearly 2.5 lakh vehicles. To address this high demand, the company has ramped up operations significantly. Supply chain and production teams have been working on Sundays and holidays throughout the month to ensure timely deliveries. Banerjee cautioned customers that those delaying their bookings might have to wait until after the festive season for their vehicle delivery.

**Export Growth and Electric Vehicle Expansion**

Maruti Suzuki’s export numbers have also seen impressive growth, with shipments rising nearly 50% last month. Particularly notable is the export of electric vehicles (EVs), with around 3,000 units shipped to international markets including Japan, the Middle East, and European countries such as Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Switzerland. Banerjee mentioned that the company will reassess its export target of four lakh units for the year, carefully balancing overseas shipments alongside robust domestic demand.

**Shifts in Consumer Behavior and Market Dynamics**

The company has observed a shift in consumer preferences, with many two-wheeler owners upgrading to entry-level cars. Additionally, existing customers are moving from models like Alto and WagonR to higher-end options such as Baleno, Fronx, and Brezza. Rural markets played a key role in this growth, accounting for 51% of sales in September—slightly surpassing urban market sales at 49%.

Market expert Mayuresh Joshi remains optimistic about Maruti Suzuki’s future prospects, citing these trends and the company’s strategic initiatives.

**Stock Performance**

Maruti Suzuki’s stock has reflected its strong performance, trading at ₹15,808 at the time of writing—a slight dip of 0.98% from the previous close. The stock has gained 6.1% over the past month and an impressive 41.3% year-to-date, significantly outperforming the Nifty 50 index, which rose by 4.5% over the same period. Over the last year, the stock has traded between ₹10,725 and ₹16,435.

With strong delivery numbers, expanded export capabilities, and changing consumer preferences, Maruti Suzuki’s outlook remains positive as it continues to capitalize on growing demand both domestically and internationally.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/maruti-suzuki-delivered-whopping-1-65l-vehicles-during-navratri/story

business, entertainment, india, media, movies

Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ have no OTT buyers?

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**Does Prabhas’s ‘The Raja Saab’ Have No OTT Buyers?**

*By Shreya Mukherjee | Oct 03, 2025, 05:12 PM*

**What’s the Story?**

The digital rights deal for Prabhas’s upcoming film, *The Raja Saab*, is yet to be finalized. This delay has reportedly caused concern among the makers, who are actively seeking a lucrative offer for the film’s OTT rights.

**Budget Concerns: Top Platforms Reluctant to Splurge**

The production team has reportedly spent around ₹400 crore on *The Raja Saab*. However, top streaming platforms seem hesitant to invest heavily in acquiring the digital rights. They are reportedly playing hardball in negotiations, aiming to secure a lower price as the makers grow eager to close the deal.

Sources suggest, “The top platforms are not in the mood to shell out huge amounts on this horror comedy which has mostly Telugu nativity.”

**Marketing Strategy: Trailer Released to Generate Buzz**

To keep the film in the public consciousness and attract potential buyers, the makers recently released the trailer for *The Raja Saab*. While Prabhas enjoys a massive fan following worldwide, the film’s genre—a horror comedy, rather than an all-out actioner—is affecting its appeal among the wider audience.

*The Raja Saab* is slated to hit theaters on January 9, 2026.

**Film Insights: What to Know About ‘The Raja Saab’**

Directed by Maruthi, *The Raja Saab* has completed principal shooting except for one romantic song scheduled to be filmed in December. The movie has been in production for over two years and faced delays due to Prabhas’s injury and his busy schedule.

Alongside Prabhas, the film stars Malavika Mohanan, Nidhhi Agerwal, and Riddhi Kumar in lead roles.

Stay tuned for more updates as the film approaches its release date.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/uncertainty-surrounds-the-raja-saab-ott-deal/story