Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal has called on Indian businesses to significantly increase domestic capital expenditure and cut dependence on imports, stressing that it is the right time to “invest and double down in our own country” amid rising global economic uncertainty. He made these remarks while receiving the CII President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement, which recognised his long-standing leadership, contribution to India’s economic development, and nation-building efforts. Speaking at the CII Annual Business Summit 2026, Mittal acknowledged global challenges, including the ongoing Middle East crisis, but maintained that India’s economic growth trajectory remains strong.

He noted that India has been growing at 6–7% annually and described overall conditions as positive, while also pointing out that certain global developments remain beyond control. Outlining key priorities for industry, Mittal urged a shift away from excessive gold imports, a focus on reducing energy costs, and faster adoption of renewable energy. He also encouraged companies to “vote with their feet” by investing more within India.

Referring to Airtel’s own strategy, he highlighted that the company invested around ₹31,000 crore in capex in FY2024–25, along with an additional ₹7,000 crore through its tower business, and said investment levels are expected to keep rising. He emphasised that strong underlying demand makes this the right time for continued investment. Mittal described India as a large and youthful consumer market and urged businesses to manufacture and serve more within the country under the “Make in India” vision.

He also spoke about the role of industry bodies like CII, calling it an important platform that works closely with policymakers. He noted his family’s long association with such organisations and encouraged young entrepreneurs to take leadership roles, saying that the government values input from industry chambers in shaping policy. Concluding his remarks, Mittal said his recognition was possible due to institutional support during his business journey and emphasised that industry must actively contribute to strengthening India’s economic resilience and supporting national growth goals.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Global food prices have climbed to their highest level in over three years after disruptions from the Iran conflict strained global supply chains, raising concerns about increased costs for consumers. According to a Friday report, the United Nations food price index rose 1.6 percent in April, driven mainly by increases in vegetable oils, meat, and cereals. Prices are now about 2.5 percent higher than a year earlier.

The ongoing Iran war, now in its third month, has effectively disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, limiting the movement of key agricultural inputs like diesel and fertilisers, which has pushed prices higher. Vegetable oils saw the sharpest rise, increasing 5.9 percent from March and reaching their highest level since July 2022.

FAO Chief Economist Máximo Torero noted that vegetable oil prices are rising due to higher crude oil costs, which are boosting demand for biofuels and adding further pressure on the market. The index tracks raw commodity prices rather than retail costs, so changes at the consumer level may take time to appear. However, the latest rise suggests food inflation could accelerate, even as discussions continue between the US and Iran over a potential peace agreement that could reopen the strait.

This marks the third straight monthly increase in the index, which includes grains, sugar, meat, dairy, and vegetable oils. It first rose in February after five months of decline. Meat prices reached a record high, increasing 1.2 percent in April, while cereal prices rose 0.8 percent due to weather-related concerns and expectations of reduced wheat planting in 2026, as farmers shift away from fertiliser-intensive crops because of the conflict.

Producers worldwide are already reporting reduced planting areas and lower yields, as rising diesel and fertiliser costs impact agricultural decisions. Several European countries, including France and Romania, have indicated they may reduce corn production as farmers respond to higher input costs.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Bloomberg.

Piyush Goyal recently met with Airbus India and South Asia President and Managing Director Jurgen Westermeier to discuss ways to strengthen aerospace manufacturing and aviation capabilities in India. The meeting aligned with India’s broader goal of increasing domestic production in the aerospace sector and positioning the country as a global centre for aircraft manufacturing and related components.

According to Goyal’s post on X, the discussions focused on expanding sourcing from India, improving manufacturing capacity, strengthening supply chains, enhancing maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, and promoting skill development initiatives. He said these measures are intended to boost India’s role as a key global aviation hub and deepen cooperation with Airbus.

The talks come as global aerospace firms increasingly view India as a strategic destination for manufacturing and sourcing, supported by government efforts to encourage localisation, workforce development, and stronger integration into global supply networks. Westermeier had also supported the interim framework for a bilateral trade agreement between India and the United States, calling it an opportunity for Indian suppliers to expand globally. He noted that such policy moves are not just about tariff reductions but about enabling broader participation of Indian companies in international aerospace supply chains.

He further highlighted that stable trade policies and tariff clarity are essential for long-term growth in capital-intensive industries like aerospace. Reduced trade barriers, he said, would help Indian suppliers integrate more efficiently into the global aviation ecosystem. The meeting reflects India’s ongoing push to strengthen its aerospace industry, develop advanced MRO capabilities, and build a skilled workforce, while Airbus continues to deepen its engagement with the Indian market.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.

Godrej Properties Ltd announced on Monday a series of board decisions taken at its meeting held earlier in the day, including a dividend recommendation and key changes in its board composition. The Board has recommended a dividend of Rs 10 per equity share, representing 200 percent on the face value of Rs 5 each, for the financial year ended March 31, 2026. The proposal is subject to shareholder approval at the 41st Annual General Meeting scheduled for August 4, 2026. The company has fixed July 28, 2026 as the record date to determine eligible shareholders. If approved, the dividend will be paid before September 3, 2026.

In a significant board update, the company noted the retirement of Nadir Godrej from the Board. The Nomination and Remuneration Committee and the Board acknowledged his resignation letter confirming his decision to step down as Non-Executive Non-Independent Director effective at the conclusion of the AGM. He stated he would turn 75 in August 2026 and expressed confidence in the company’s leadership to continue creating long term value.

The Board placed on record its appreciation for his guidance, strategic direction, and contribution during his tenure. The Board approved an enabling resolution to raise up to Rs 3000 crore through non convertible debentures, bonds, or other debt securities on a private placement basis in multiple tranches. A committee has been authorized to decide the timing, amount, and terms of the issuance.

These decisions reflect the company’s continued focus on rewarding shareholders while strengthening its financial flexibility for future growth opportunities. The management reiterated its commitment to sustainable expansion and disciplined capital allocation across its real estate portfolio aiming to enhance long term shareholder value creation.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

In “Culture Club,” Melanie Oliveiro explores the beauty product industry through a conversation with Joyce Tirindelli, a 20-something, third-generation CEO of the Italian skincare brand World of Beauty. Tirindelli shares how she was prepared for leadership and now oversees a portfolio of over 200 products that are vegan, Halal-certified, and environmentally friendly. She also discusses the brand’s expansion strategy in Southeast Asia, a region expected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

As tensions rise in Iran, the global energy system is being tested like never before. Critical chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz, along with concentrated LNG infrastructure in hubs like Ras Laffan, highlight the inherent rigidity and vulnerability of oil and gas markets. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman explore what “market adjustment” looks like when long-term contracts offer little flexibility, and why Europe could once again face a challenging scramble for energy supplies. Their analysis includes insights from Pang Lu Ming, Vice President of Gas & LNG Research at Rystad Energy.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Oil prices have jumped significantly as tensions in the Middle East intensify, with concerns over potential supply disruptions pushing crude prices up by double digits. If this upward trend persists, rising energy costs could reignite inflation and affect transportation, manufacturing, and household expenses globally. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman examine how various countries are stockpiling oil, diversifying their supplies, and managing the impact of higher prices, including insights from Vandana Hari, Founder of Vanda Insights.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump increased the US global import tariff to 15%, following the Supreme Court’s ruling that invalidated much of his previous tariff program. Trump described the new 15% rate as “fully allowed and legally tested,” replacing the earlier 10% plan, and said it would be temporary under current trade law for 150 days. Questions remain about how enforceable this measure is and what will happen once the 150-day period ends. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss the implications with Angela Mancini, Partner and Head of the Global Risk Analysis Practice for Asia Pacific at Control Risks.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.