Power Finance Corporation (PFC), a leading financial backbone of India's energy infrastructure, reported a strong 25% year-on-year increase in its consolidated net profit for the first quarter, reaching Rs. 8,981 crore. This impressive growth reflects a robust loan book, efficient cost management, and continued demand for infrastructure financing in the power sector. With a sharp rise in interest income and disciplined asset quality, the state-owned non-banking financial company (NBFC) is reinforcing its critical role in India’s energy transition.

Mahindra & Mahindra has launched a substantial employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) estimated between Rs. 400 crore to Rs. 500 crore, aimed at benefiting 23,000 of its employees. This move reflects the company’s focus on incentivizing talent, driving ownership culture, and aligning workforce interests with long-term strategic growth. By offering ESOPs across different levels of the organisation—including junior staff—Mahindra is signaling its intent to foster inclusivity and deepen employee engagement.

Hindustan Power has announced its latest renewable energy venture: a 435 MW solar power project in Uttar Pradesh. As part of its broader commitment to green energy and sustainable infrastructure, this large-scale initiative is expected to significantly boost the state’s renewable energy capacity and support India's ambitious climate goals. With an estimated investment running into hundreds of crores, the project marks a strategic expansion of Hindustan Power’s solar portfolio.

WhatsApp has intensified its efforts to secure its platform, unveiling a robust safety tool aimed at empowering users to better identify and report suspicious activity. In tandem, the messaging giant has significantly escalated its crackdown on scam and spam accounts, disabling millions during a recent compliance cycle. These developments reflect WhatsApp’s broader commitment to digital safety, transparency, and accountability, especially in light of rising cyber fraud and phishing attempts across messaging platforms.

Bollywood icon Deepika Padukone has once again captivated global audiences—not on the silver screen, but through social media. A short-form video posted by the actress has reportedly amassed a staggering 1.9 billion views, potentially setting a new global benchmark for Instagram engagement. The record-breaking reel, characterized by its blend of visual appeal, star power, and algorithmic virality, reflects the seismic influence of digital platforms in shaping celebrity reach.

PVR INOX, India’s leading multiplex chain, has reported a narrowed consolidated net loss of Rs. 54.5 crore for the first quarter of FY26, signaling continued recovery in the cinema exhibition business. The company’s performance improved on the back of a diverse content slate, rising footfalls, and cost rationalisation measures. Though profitability remains elusive, the loss figure marks a substantial improvement compared to previous quarters.

TVS Motor Company has taken a decisive step toward nurturing design excellence in India through the launch of TVS INDUS, a pioneering initiative aimed at cultivating homegrown talent in the industrial design space. By creating a platform that blends innovation, industry relevance, and academic collaboration, the program is poised to strengthen India’s position as a global hub for design leadership.

A recent study has highlighted the far-reaching effects of U.S. trade tariffs on India’s economy, emphasizing the dual burden on Indian exporters and American low-income consumers. The report suggests that elevated tariffs imposed by the United States have disproportionately affected Indian export sectors, including textiles, chemicals, and steel. Additionally, the analysis underscores that these tariffs raise consumer prices in the U.S., ultimately hurting economically vulnerable households.

Bharat Forge Ltd., a leading engineering and technology solutions provider, reported a robust 63% year-on-year surge in its consolidated net profit for the first quarter of FY26, reaching Rs. 284 crore. This sharp uptick was powered by consistent growth across its domestic and international business segments, along with operational efficiencies and favorable demand in core sectors. The company also registered a revenue of Rs. 2,288 crore during the quarter.

E.I.D. Parry (India) Ltd. has reported a strong start to FY26, posting a consolidated net profit of Rs. 464.46 crore for the first quarter, driven by improved operating margins and strategic efficiencies across its core businesses. The Chennai-headquartered sugar and nutraceuticals company also recorded consolidated revenue of Rs. 6,997.58 crore, showcasing its ability to navigate market headwinds while maintaining a healthy top line. With a clear focus on sustainability and value-added product segments, E.I.D.