India and Zambia have formalized a trade agreement aimed at strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and expanding the scope of cooperative exports between the two nations. The pact is designed to enhance trade volumes, diversify export portfolios, and create new market opportunities for businesses in both countries. By focusing on areas such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services, the agreement seeks to foster sustainable economic growth while deepening diplomatic and commercial ties.

Casio India has announced the start of direct local sales of its watch portfolio, marking a strategic shift to strengthen its brand presence and streamline market access. The move aims to bring the company closer to consumers, improve supply chain efficiency, and offer competitive pricing by reducing intermediaries. By managing sales operations in-house, Casio intends to enhance customer experience through better availability, tailored marketing campaigns, and faster response to market trends.

Akasa Air has announced the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Phuket, Thailand, beginning September 20, as part of its strategic international expansion. The new service aims to tap into the growing demand for short-haul leisure travel among Indian passengers, supported by increasing tourism flows to Southeast Asia. By introducing this route, Akasa Air seeks to strengthen its presence in the international segment while leveraging Mumbai’s position as a major travel hub.

Tyre manufacturer MRF Ltd. reported a 12% year-on-year drop in net profit for the first quarter, closing at Rs. 500 crore, as rising input costs and foreign exchange fluctuations weighed on margins. While the company recorded steady revenue growth, higher raw material prices—particularly for rubber and crude derivatives—combined with increased operational expenses eroded profitability. Despite the dip, MRF continues to maintain a dominant market position, supported by robust demand from both the replacement and original equipment segments.

Pharmaceutical major Lupin has entered into a strategic partnership with Sandoz to market and distribute its biosimilar Ranibizumab in select global markets. Ranibizumab, a widely prescribed treatment for retinal disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema, represents a high-value segment within the ophthalmology therapeutics market. This collaboration combines Lupin’s manufacturing expertise with Sandoz’s extensive global commercial network, aiming to broaden patient access to advanced eye care solutions.

Rainbow Children’s Medicare Ltd., a leading pediatric and maternity care provider, has announced plans to acquire a significant stake in Pratiksha Hospital Group, marking a strategic move to expand its footprint in India’s premium healthcare segment. The acquisition aims to strengthen Rainbow’s presence in the northeastern region and enhance its portfolio of advanced maternal, neonatal, and pediatric care services.

Airtel Payments Bank has posted a 44.4% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first quarter, driven by a sharp rise in digital transactions, robust customer acquisition, and expanding product offerings. The company’s performance reflects the accelerating adoption of digital banking solutions in India, particularly in semi-urban and rural markets. Enhanced operational efficiency, targeted partnerships, and growth in fee-based income contributed to the earnings boost.

Sterlite Electric has secured new contracts worth Rs. 1,500 crore, reinforcing its position as a key player in India’s rapidly expanding power transmission and distribution sector. The orders, spanning multiple geographies, cover turnkey projects, high-voltage infrastructure development, and advanced transmission technology solutions. This contract win aligns with the government’s push to modernize the national grid, expand renewable energy integration, and address rising electricity demand.

Dashverse, a rapidly growing technology venture, has raised $13 million in a fresh funding round led by Peak XV Partners, with participation from prominent institutional and strategic investors. The capital infusion will be directed toward scaling operations, enhancing product innovation, and expanding market reach. This funding milestone underscores strong investor confidence in Dashverse’s business model, technological capabilities, and growth trajectory.

Qualcomm has announced plans to localize module production in India, marking a significant move to align with the government’s “Make in India” and electronics manufacturing initiatives. The shift is aimed at boosting domestic value addition, reducing import dependence, and catering to the rapidly growing demand for connected devices and advanced electronics. By producing modules locally, the company intends to enhance supply chain resilience, reduce lead times, and strengthen its partnership with Indian manufacturers.