Indian equity markets witnessed a sharp pullback as shares of Reliance Industries fell 5 percent, amplifying losses across benchmark indices. The decline came amid a broader market downturn driven by cautious global cues, profit-taking in heavyweight stocks, and heightened uncertainty over interest rate trajectories. Reliance’s slide, given its significant index weight, exerted disproportionate pressure on market benchmarks, overshadowing gains in select sectors.

Indian equity markets ended lower as selling pressure intensified in heavyweight stocks, with Reliance Industries and HDFC Bank emerging as key drags on benchmark indices. Cautious global cues, concerns over interest rate trajectories, and selective profit-booking combined to dampen risk appetite. While broader markets showed pockets of resilience, the decline in index majors overshadowed gains elsewhere. Analysts said the session reflected a pause rather than a reversal, as investors reassessed valuations amid mixed economic signals.

The central government has removed import restrictions on metallurgical coke, a key raw material for steelmaking, in a move aimed at easing supply constraints and stabilizing input costs for domestic producers. The decision is expected to provide relief to steel manufacturers grappling with tight availability and rising prices, while also supporting infrastructure and construction activity. By allowing freer imports, policymakers are seeking to balance domestic production priorities with the immediate needs of industry.

Discussions at the TiE Global Summit placed artificial intelligence and deep technology at the center of the global innovation agenda, highlighting their growing influence on business models, investment strategies and economic competitiveness. Entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers converged to examine how advances in AI, machine learning and frontier technologies are reshaping industries and redefining productivity.

Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the creation of a new subsidiary as part of its strategy to accelerate growth in India’s high-end hospitality segment. The move is aimed at consolidating luxury hotel operations under a dedicated entity, improving capital efficiency and supporting future expansion. As demand for premium travel experiences strengthens, particularly among affluent domestic and international travelers, the group is positioning itself to capture long-term opportunities.

The Delhi government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Reserve Bank of India to enhance the financial and operational framework supporting the rejuvenation of the Yamuna River. The agreement is aimed at improving fund management, transparency and execution of projects linked to river cleanup and restoration. By bringing RBI’s institutional expertise into the process, the initiative seeks to ensure more efficient deployment of public resources and tighter oversight of expenditures.

Reserve Bank of India Governor has urged non-banking financial companies to place greater emphasis on asset quality, cautioning against complacency amid strong credit growth. The central bank’s message comes as NBFCs expand lending across retail, infrastructure and small business segments, often in a competitive and liquidity-sensitive environment. While acknowledging the sector’s role in improving credit access, the governor emphasized the need for prudent underwriting, robust governance and adequate capital buffers.

Shivalik Small Finance Bank has entered into a strategic partnership with PNB MetLife India Insurance to offer life insurance products to its customer base, strengthening its presence in the bancassurance segment. The collaboration is aimed at broadening access to financial protection, particularly among underserved and emerging customer segments. By leveraging Shivalik Bank’s growing branch network and PNB MetLife’s diversified insurance portfolio, the partnership seeks to enhance product penetration while creating new fee-based income streams.

Mahindra & Mahindra is expected to sustain healthy sales growth through 2026, driven by robust demand for its sport utility vehicle portfolio, according to industry assessments. The automaker’s continued focus on product innovation, capacity expansion, and strengthening its order book has positioned it favorably in a competitive market. Strong consumer preference for SUVs, coupled with improved supply-chain stability, is likely to support volumes despite broader economic uncertainties.

Ex Union Minister Smriti Irani used the TiE Summit platform to deliver a forceful message on the economic imperative of empowering women entrepreneurs in India. Addressing founders, investors, and policymakers, she emphasized that women-led enterprises are no longer a social initiative but a critical growth engine for the national economy. Irani highlighted the need for access to capital, mentorship, and supportive policy frameworks to unlock the full potential of women in business.