Mint Podcast

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

1. “No Fences, Just Food” – Trump’s Gaza Pledge

With emotion in his voice, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the setup of “food centres” across Gaza—open, unfenced zones where civilians can access aid freely. Speaking from Scotland after meeting UK PM Keir Starmer, Trump said, “You can’t fake starvation… They have to get food and safety right now.”Starmer echoed the urgency, calling the situation “an absolute catastrophe.” Despite daily Israeli pauses for aid delivery, relief efforts remain insufficient. Only 60 trucks entered Gaza recently, well below the World Food Programme’s target of 100 per day. Trump also issued a direct message to Israeli PM Netanyahu: “You have to end it.” Global pressure is rising—from London to Paris—as the focus shifts from geopolitics to humanitarian survival.

2. “₹12,000 Trillion & Counting” – India’s Digital Payments Boom

India’s digital payment ecosystem has logged over 65,000 crore transactions worth ₹12,000 trillion between FY19 and FY25. From remote villages to roadside kirana stores, adoption is widespread.Minister Pankaj Chaudhary said the Payments Infrastructure Development Fund has enabled 4.77 crore touchpoints, boosting financial inclusion across Northeast India and J&K.The RBI Digital Payments Index has risen to 465.33 (Sept 2024), up from the base of 100 in 2018, signaling how deeply embedded digital payments are today.With UPI, BHIM incentives, TReDS for MSMEs, and alternative credit data, India is not just going cashless—it’s unlocking formal credit access for millions.

3. “Dollar Dents Euro as Trade Tensions Cool”

After months of anxiety, the dollar is back in form. A fresh U.S.-EU trade agreement—brokered by President Trump and EU’s Ursula von der Leyen—halved proposed tariffs on EU goods to 15%, easing global fears of a trade war.The dollar rose 1.25% against the euro, 0.59% against the yen, and 1% against the Swiss franc. The pound too dipped 0.67% to $1.335.Investor sentiment improved further with U.S.–Japan and U.S.–China dialogues also in progress. U.S. stocks held steady, and eyes now turn to upcoming Fed and BOJ meetings, with both expected to hold rates steady.Meanwhile, Bitcoin dipped to $118,205, and Ethereum fell just below $3,801.

4. “Tremors Trigger Readiness Drills” – Quake Near Andamans

A 6.3 magnitude earthquake shook the Bay of Bengal near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at 12:11 am on July 29. The quake struck at a depth of 10 km; no damage or casualties were reported.This follows a 3.2 magnitude quake in Faridabad on July 22, felt across Delhi-NCR.In response, Delhi, Haryana, and UP have kicked off large-scale disaster drills—running from July 29 to August 1—focusing on earthquakes and industrial hazards.Coordinated by the NDMA and Indian Army, the drills aim to tighten disaster preparedness across the capital region.

5. “Musk’s $16.5B Chip Bet” – Samsung’s Foundry Lifeline

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has signed a $16.5 billion chip deal with Samsung Electronics, reviving hopes for the company’s struggling fab in Taylor, Texas.Tesla’s next-gen AI6 chips will be produced there, and Musk says he’ll “personally walk the line” to speed up progress. The deal runs through 2033 and could vastly exceed the initial commitment.Samsung, which already supplies Tesla’s A14 chips, had struggled to find customers for the Texas fab. This order sent Samsung shares soaring nearly 7%, their highest since Sept 2023.While AI6 chip production is expected around 2027–28, this tie-up offers Samsung a much-needed lifeline—especially as it trails TSMC in the foundry race and posted a $3.6B loss in the past six months.

In a candid conversation on Let's Mint Money, Manish Kejriwal, founder and managing partner at Kedaara Capital, opened up about his evolving relationship with money, early debt struggles, and the realities of private equity in India.Presented in association with Waterfield Advisors, Let’s Mint Money is a candid conversation series where Neil Borate, Deputy Editor at Mint, explores the personal finance philosophies of India’s most accomplished corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and family business visionaries. From money mistakes to legacy planning, each episode reveals the real stories behind wealth, risk, and values.

Is Gurugram's property market a house of cards, ready to collapse with a small push?

Is the price rise of 300% since 2021 that Gurgaon has seen too much, too soon? Most importantly, should YOU stay away from this overheated market?It can be confusing, especially because influencers are giving opinions and there is fear gripping the market. However, does this fear have a solid base or is it just a theory? What are the numbers saying? In this video, we analyse EXACTLY that for you - the hard numbers and data. Tune in to watch Manisha Natarajan's conversation with PropEquity founder Samir Jasuja on this episode of Let's Get Real!#realestate #property #gurugram

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

1. TCS Cuts Jobs to “Realign the Future”

India’s largest IT firm, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), is laying off 12,261 employees—roughly 2% of its global workforce—in FY26. The move, largely targeting mid-to-senior management, is part of TCS’s shift toward becoming a “Future-Ready”, AI-driven organisation. Despite a fresh 5,000 hires in Q1, the company’s attrition ticked up to 13.8%, prompting tighter policies on bench strength and billing mandates. CFO Samir Seksaria’s earlier assurance of wage hikes is now shadowed by cost cuts. CEO K. Krithivasan remains cautious, citing macro headwinds and a low likelihood of double-digit growth. TCS joins Microsoft and other tech majors who are navigating the AI disruption with painful workforce realignments.

2. Trump’s EU Tariff Countdown

Just days before an August 1 tariff deadline, Donald Trump is pushing hard for a new US-EU trade deal, demanding “fairness” on cars and agriculture. Meeting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Scotland, Trump said there’s a “good chance” of a breakthrough, while von der Leyen pegged the odds at 50-50. If talks collapse, EU exports could face up to 30% tariffs on top of existing duties. With $1.9 trillion in annual trade on the line, this is a critical test for transatlantic ties—and a volatile moment for global markets.

3. Rudra & Bhairav: India’s New Strike Force

In a bold military reorganisation, the Indian Army has launched ‘Rudra’ all-arms brigades and ‘Bhairav’ light commando battalions to enhance border readiness against China and Pakistan. Unveiled on Kargil Vijay Diwas, these new formations blend infantry, tanks, artillery, UAVs, and special forces into agile, tech-powered units. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi said this realignment—without adding new troops—will “multiply operational capabilities manifold.” Over 250 brigades will be converted into all-arms formations, marking a major pivot toward future-ready warfare.

4. Coforge Rises to #7 in Indian IT

Coforge, formerly NIIT Technologies, has overtaken Mphasis to become India’s seventh-largest IT services provider. Clocking $442 million in revenue for the June quarter, Coforge is riding high on a $1.56 billion deal with Sabre and its acquisition of Cigniti Technologies. With operating margins flat at 13.1% and negative free cash flow, challenges remain—but analysts expect Coforge to hit a $2 billion run-rate by June 2026, potentially cracking the top 6 alongside Tech Mahindra and LTIMindtree. CEO Sudhir Singh is confident: “H2 should also be robust.” The mid-cap IT race is heating up, even as the top four remain unchanged.

5. UK Faces Vote on Palestinian Statehood

Following France’s bold UN pledge to recognise Palestine, Britain is now under pressure to act. The Scottish National Party (SNP) has vowed to introduce a Palestine Recognition Bill when Parliament resumes in September. Leader Stephen Flynn says if PM Keir Starmer stalls, the SNP will force a full parliamentary vote. Over 220 MPs, including many from Labour, back recognition, citing the escalating crisis in Gaza. While Starmer, Italy, and Germany prefer a peace-first approach, critics warn that waiting might mean never acting at all. With 142 nations already recognising Palestine, the UK’s next move will be closely watched.

100 weeks ago, Business and Leadership began as an idea—and it all started with a call from a Tata Group company.In this special episode, our main man Hrishi K sits down with Sachin Bhandary, who reflects on the moment that launched it all: his first-ever in-person corporate training on communication. What unfolded that day? How did hours of reading and preparation turn into a real, high-stakes opportunity?From that one room to 100 weeks of storytelling, strategy, and growth—this episode is a celebration of momentum, reflection, and the quiet work behind big leaps.Whether you’re building a brand, business, or just betting on yourself, this story is proof that one “yes” can shape the next 100 chapters. #BusinessAndLeadership #TataGroup #CorporateTraining #Entrepreneurship

Watch the full episode on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9kpS2ZAC4E

Author, and celebrity yoga guru Ira Trivedi sits down with Rushank Shah (Hubtown) for a deep, inspiring conversation on what success really means — beyond money, fame, or titles.They discuss building wellness brands, cultivating stillness, digital burnout, and choosing balance in a world that glorifies hustle.Click here to know more: https://brandstories.livemint.com/hubtown-the-success-code

Origin Story:

https://youtube.com/@OriginStory.Official?

si=PLahurNFlEuL6TX4#TheSuccessCode #IraTrivedi #OriginStory #RushankShah #Wellness #Yoga #Leadership #Podcast

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

Whisky, Work Visas & Win-Win Trade

After three years of negotiation, India and the UK have inked a landmark Free Trade Agreement, boosting bilateral trade by an estimated $34 billion annually.

Signed during PM Modi’s London visit, the deal grants duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports, benefiting key sectors like textiles, pharma, and jewellery. Indian consumers gain too—expect cheaper British cars, scotch, chocolates, soft drinks, and medical devices.

Beyond goods, the deal opens 35 UK service sectors to Indian professionals for up to 24 months, eliminates social security payments for 3 years, and skips the UK’s Economic Needs Test in 36 categories.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal hailed it as a $23 billion opportunity for India’s labour-intensive sectors, and a step toward inclusive growth.

From ‘India Out’ to ‘India’s In’

PM Modi landed in Malé for the second leg of his two-nation tour, becoming the chief guest at the Maldives’ 60th Independence Day celebrations.

This marks a diplomatic reset with President Mohamed Muizzu, whose early tenure saw a tilt towards China and ‘India Out’ rhetoric.

Key agenda items: maritime security, trade, and inaugurating India-funded infrastructure projects. Several MoUs will be signed, reinforcing the India-Maldives Joint Vision. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri called it a “significant reset”—a move aimed at rebalancing regional influence.

Rubio to Macron: You’re Helping Hamas

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio lashed out at France for its decision to recognize Palestine at the UN.

Calling it “reckless” and “a slap in the face to the victims of October 7,” Rubio claimed the move boosts Hamas propaganda and damages peace efforts.

France joins a growing bloc of EU nations supporting Palestinian statehood, while the US maintains that only direct Israel-Palestine talks can lead to a viable two-state solution.

The diplomatic divide in the West over Gaza is getting sharper—and more public.

Missiles, Fighter Jets & A UN Cry for Help

A dangerous escalation between Thailand and Cambodia has left nine civilians dead after Cambodia reportedly launched rocket attacks into Thai territory.

In response, Thailand deployed six F-16s, with at least one conducting airstrikes inside Cambodia. Both sides are now trading barbs and expelling diplomats.

Cambodia is calling for an emergency UN Security Council meeting, while China has urged restraint.

Thailand has sealed borders, begun civilian evacuations, and accused Cambodia of using human shields and targeting hospitals.

The baht slipped 0.3% amid rising market anxiety. This conflict could spiral fast.

MSME Stress Clouds ₹4,765 Cr Profit

Bajaj Finance posted a solid 22% jump in Q1 profit to ₹4,765 crore, but beneath the numbers is a growing concern: stress in unsecured MSME loans.

Vice Chairman Rajeev Jain flagged over-leverage as a “single univariate pain point.” Loan loss provisions rose 26%, and restructured loans surged to ₹219 crore—five times the usual.

13 out of 17 MSME sectors are slowing or contracting, with even doctors under strain.

Gross NPAs rose to 1.03% (from 0.86% last year), and credit costs may hover near 2% for FY26.

While AUM may grow 15%, disbursements will likely remain flat or decline. Recovery, Jain warned, may take “another quarter or more.”

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

Modi’s London Mission: Trade Meets Royalty

It was a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora—and a pivotal handshake in British countryside diplomacy. PM Narendra Modi landed in London for a two-day visit focused on formalizing the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, a deal three years in the making.

Hosted by newly elected UK PM Keir Starmer at Chequers, the two leaders are expected to finalize an FTA that could eliminate tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, while opening India to more British whisky, cars, and luxury goods. Commerce ministers Piyush Goyal and Jonathan Reynolds are likely to sign the deal in their presence.

With $55 billion in bilateral trade and nearly 1,000 Indian companies in the UK, the partnership runs deep. India is also a major investor, with $20 billion in British ventures. Later, Modi is set to meet King Charles III, blending hard talks with soft diplomacy. Next stop: the Maldives, in a potential diplomatic reset after recent strain.

Mayday in Ahmedabad: IndiGo’s Engine Scare

It was a nerve-wracking moment on the tarmac. IndiGo flight 6E 7966, heading from Ahmedabad to Diu, aborted takeoff after one engine caught fire during its takeoff roll on July 23. The ATR-76 aircraft carried 60 passengers.

Pilots issued a “Mayday” and returned to the bay safely. All passengers were evacuated without injury. IndiGo cited a technical snag and promised thorough checks. This scare comes just a day after another IndiGo flight from Goa to Indore also reported a technical fault before landing.

No casualties were reported, but the back-to-back incidents have raised concerns over aircraft maintenance during India’s busy monsoon season.

Visa Thaw: India Reopens Doors to Chinese Tourists

After four tense years post-Galwan, India has officially resumed tourist visas for Chinese nationals, in what’s being seen as a significant diplomatic thaw. The announcement was made quietly via WeChat by the Indian Embassy in Beijing.

Chinese travelers can now begin applying online starting July 24. This follows the recent restart of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and months of border de-escalation, including the Modi-Xi meeting in Kazan and a flurry of bilateral talks.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently met his counterpart Wang Yi, urging the end of restrictive trade measures like China’s rare earth export curbs—key for India’s EV and agri sectors. From 200,000 visas in 2019 to just 2,000 last year, this move aims to reboot people-to-people ties.

Trump Sends More Weapons to Ukraine—$322M Worth

Amid escalating Russian attacks, the U.S. has cleared a $322 million arms package for Ukraine. The deal includes $150 million for U.S. armored vehicle support and $172 million for surface-to-air missile systems.

The announcement comes just weeks after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth paused other aid to assess U.S. stockpiles—surprising the White House. President Donald Trump, under rising pressure from isolationists, has since pivoted, declaring: “They have to be able to defend themselves.”

Trump’s new workaround? Let European allies buy U.S. arms and transfer them to Kyiv. Since 2022, the U.S. has sent over $67 billion in military support. Still, NATO countries in Eastern Europe are reluctant to part with their own advanced defense systems, despite mounting urgency.

Chanda Kochhar Found Guilty in ₹64 Cr Bribery Case

A stunning fall for one of India’s most celebrated bankers. Former ICICI Bank CEO Chanda Kochhar has been found guilty of accepting a ₹64 crore bribe in return for sanctioning a ₹300 crore loan to Videocon Group.

An appellate tribunal in Delhi ruled that the bribe was routed via her husband Deepak Kochhar, using a Videocon-linked entity. A key red flag? The ₹64 crore was transferred just one day after the loan disbursal.

Welcome to Top of the Morning by Mint.. I’m Nelson John and here are today’s top stories.

Flight Frights: Safety Under the Scanner

It’s been a tense 48 hours in Indian aviation, with three back-to-back incidents raising concerns over safety and monsoon preparedness. On Tuesday, Air India Flight AI 315 from Hong Kong landed safely in Delhi, only for a fire to break out in the aircraft’s auxiliary power unit (APU) just after parking. Luckily, passengers had started disembarking and no injuries were reported. The aircraft has been grounded for checks.

This followed two other incidents on Monday: one Kolkata-bound flight aborted takeoff in Delhi due to a technical snag, and another Air India aircraft skidded off the runway in rain-hit Mumbai while arriving from Kochi. In both cases, passengers were unharmed.

Adding to the list, an IndiGo flight from Goa to Indore made an emergency landing after a mid-air landing gear warning. All 140 passengers are safe, but the spate of issues has raised tough questions about maintenance protocols and weather-readiness.

H1-B Overhaul: Skill May Trump Luck

Donald Trump is moving to restructure the U.S. H1-B visa lottery. On July 17, the Department of Homeland Security filed a proposal to introduce a “weighted and wage-linked selection system.” If approved, higher-paid and more skilled applicants will be prioritized over the current random lottery system.

This could mark a seismic shift for Indian professionals, who make up over 70% of all approved H1-B visas annually. In FY24, 77% of the 320,000 slots went to Indian nationals.

Elon Musk supported the move with a one-word post on X: “Great.” Musk has previously called the system “broken,” and this change could reflect a “merit-first” model, especially appealing to the tech sector.

Still, it’s a divisive move within Trump’s own MAGA base, which often pushes for stricter immigration. The proposal is under regulatory review, with final details yet to be confirmed.

Akasa on Ascent: Fastest-Growing Indian Airline

Akasa Air is flying high. In just two years, the airline has built a fleet of 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets and placed orders for 226 aircraft to be delivered by 2032. The numbers are impressive: revenue grew 49% year-on-year, Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) rose 48%, and EBITDA margins improved by 50% over FY24.

Akasa’s RASK (revenue per seat) now stands at 13%, while CASK (cost per seat) remains below 10%. The airline plans to expand international operations from 16% to 25%, targeting Middle East and Southeast Asia routes.

CFO Ankur Goel says Akasa is on track to grow its fleet by 25–30% annually, and the upcoming Navi Mumbai and Noida airports could offer strong domestic growth levers. From startup to serious contender, Akasa is becoming India’s most ambitious young airline.

Modi–Starmer FTA: A Landmark Trade Handshake

As PM Narendra Modi heads to the UK for his first visit since Keir Starmer took office, the two leaders are set to sign a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Cleared by India’s Cabinet, the FTA promises to cut tariffs on 90% of British goods, making 85% of them duty-free over 10 years. In return, the UK will remove tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, boosting industries like textiles, gems, auto parts, marine goods, and chemicals.

This is a big win for Indian exporters, especially in apparel and home textiles, which currently face 8–12% UK duties. The deal also aims to unlock India-UK trade, which currently makes up just 2% of India’s global trade—a surprisingly low figure given their historic ties.

Once signed, the FTA will go to the British Parliament for ratification. If passed, this could become Britain’s biggest trade deal post-Brexit.

Your last month's EPF wages can drastically lower your withdrawal eligibility — even if your total balance is high. Ketan Das from FinRight explains a real case where someone needed ₹4L but got only ₹95K. Learn how to avoid this EPF mistake before it’s too late!#epf #pfwithdrawal #money #personalfinance

Watch the whole episode on YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLm64SrISTU&t=10s