Category: BUSINESS

January 12, 2026, New Delhi, India

The rapid digitalisation of the banking sector is transforming the way financial institutions operate, but it is also reshaping the landscape of financial risks, experts have warned. With banks increasingly adopting advanced technologies such as AI-driven analytics, digital payments, and online lending platforms, the efficiency and reach of banking services have grown significantly. However, this shift has also exposed institutions to new forms of operational, cybersecurity, and fraud-related risks that require robust risk management frameworks.

Industry analysts note that digital channels, while convenient for customers, can become a target for cyberattacks and phishing schemes, potentially leading to substantial financial losses. Additionally, the reliance on algorithms and automated decision-making introduces model and systemic risks, where errors in coding or flawed data can cascade into larger operational failures. Regulators and banks are now focusing on implementing comprehensive digital risk governance, including real-time monitoring, enhanced cybersecurity protocols, and customer education, to ensure that the benefits of digitalisation are balanced with financial security and stability.

India is all set to witness its first-ever “Man vs Machine” moment, a landmark event that brings cutting-edge technology face-to-face with human skill and intelligence. The much-anticipated showcase will highlight how advanced machines powered by artificial intelligence and automation perform in real-time against human expertise, marking a significant milestone in India’s growing tech journey.

The event is scheduled to be held soon and will be live-streamed on major digital platforms, allowing audiences across the country to watch history unfold. Viewers can tune in via official streaming partners and select television channels, with exact timings announced closer to the event. The face-off is expected to draw massive interest from tech enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike, as it reflects India’s rapid strides in innovation and future-ready technology.

Experts say this moment is not about replacing humans, but about showcasing collaboration and healthy competition between people and machines. The event is being positioned as a celebration of innovation, skills, and the future of technology in India, underlining how human creativity and machine precision can coexist and complement each other in the years ahead.

New Delhi, January 12:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday chaired a high-level meeting to review India’s economic growth trajectory and the progress of major infrastructure projects across sectors. During the meeting, the Prime Minister stressed the need for timely execution, effective coordination among ministries and removal of bottlenecks to maintain momentum in capital expenditure and job creation.

PM Modi urged officials to focus on outcome-driven governance, particularly in sectors such as railways, highways, renewable energy and manufacturing. He reiterated that infrastructure development plays a critical role in strengthening India’s competitiveness and improving the quality of life for citizens, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.

New Delhi, January 12:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday underlined the importance of the ‘Make In India’ initiative, stating that India is well-positioned to emerge as a global manufacturing hub amid shifting global supply chains. He highlighted reforms undertaken in ease of doing business, production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes and logistics infrastructure.

The Prime Minister said India’s growing manufacturing ecosystem presents opportunities for both domestic entrepreneurs and global investors. He added that the government remains committed to policy stability, innovation and skilling the youth to meet future industrial demands, ensuring long-term economic resilience.

Mumbai, January 10:
Mumbai emerged as the leading residential property market in India in 2025, recording the highest sales volume among major cities, industry data released on Saturday showed. According to real estate analysts, strong demand from homebuyers, improved affordability, and investor interest in stable assets contributed to robust housing sales in the country’s financial capital. The residential segment’s momentum was supported by new launches, competitive pricing, and a trend toward larger, value-oriented projects that appealed to end users and long-term investors alike.

In the commercial real estate space, Mumbai also stood out by posting the second-highest office leasing activity in India during 2025, behind only Bengaluru. Office take-ups were driven by demand from technology, financial services and co-working firms seeking premium space in key micro markets such as Lower Parel, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Andheri. Analysts said the combined performance in both residential and office segments highlights Mumbai’s enduring appeal as a hub for real estate investment and corporate expansion, reflecting confidence in its economic fundamentals and workforce availability.

New Delhi / Washington, January 10:
In the context of ongoing India-US trade discussions, there have been differing accounts between the United States and New Delhi regarding a stalled trade deal, with the US Commerce Secretary suggesting that a missed phone call from Prime Minister Modi may have contributed to the impasse. However, the Indian government has dismissed this claim as inaccurate, maintaining that discussions continue while emphasising the importance of constructive engagement on tariff and trade issues. The talks have gained focus amid US proposals to levy high duties on imports from certain countries, which India views within the framework of protecting its economic and energy interests.

The external affairs ministry and trade experts emphasised that India prefers diplomatic and consultative channels to resolve differences and seek mutually beneficial outcomes. Officials highlighted that both sides remain committed to advancing strategic economic ties, with dialogues ongoing to address market access, tariff concerns, and broader bilateral trade cooperation.

Mangalagiri, January 10:
Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Harish Kumar Gupta on Friday inaugurated the Phase II rollout of Remote Area Communication Enhancement (RACE) vehicles, adding eight four-wheelers and sixteen two-wheelers worth ₹2 crore to the fleet at the AP Police Headquarters in Mangalagiri. These specially equipped vehicles are aimed at improving communication and command capabilities in remote, forested, coastal and disaster-prone areas where mobile network connectivity is weak or non-existent. Each RACE vehicle functions as a mobile communication centre, ensuring faster response and coordination during emergencies, public events and law-and-order situations, and strengthening disaster preparedness across eight additional districts under Phase II.

DGP Gupta highlighted the importance of RACE vehicles in bridging communication gaps, noting their crucial role during past incidents such as the Kachuluru and Polavaram boat accidents. The launch event was attended by senior officials including Additional DGP N. Madhusudhan Reddy and IGP CH Srikant, who emphasised that technology-driven public safety initiatives are critical for enhancing security and emergency management in challenging terrains. The RACE Phase I programme (2018–19) had covered nine districts, and this expansion marks a continued focus by the police on integrating mobility with rapid communication systems to better serve citizens.

Global Markets, January 9:
Oil prices climbed for a second straight day on Friday as traders digested mounting concerns over potential supply disruptions linked to geopolitical tensions in Venezuela and Iran, fueling a rally in crude benchmarks. Brent crude futures rose about 0.7% to around $62.4 a barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude increased roughly 0.68% to about $58.1, marking gains for a third straight week amid heightened market uncertainty. Analysts said persistent unrest in Iran and uncertainties over Venezuela’s future oil output have elevated risk premiums, outweighing recent oversupply worries in the global energy market.

Markets have been monitoring the aftermath of U.S. actions toward Venezuela’s oil sector, including the seizure of Venezuelan tankers and claims that Washington could control the country’s oil sales, which has added to supply risk perceptions. At the same time, civil unrest in Iran — a significant Middle Eastern oil producer — has raised fresh questions about output stability, while broader geopolitical risks, including tensions affecting Russian oil flows, have further supported crude prices. Despite the rise, some analysts caution that long-term oversupply concerns remain a counterweight, especially if geopolitical tensions do not escalate further.

New Delhi, January 9:
BMW India has reported its highest-ever annual sales in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the luxury carmaker in the country. The strong performance was led by the company’s Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) portfolio, which continued to witness robust demand from customers across major urban markets. Models such as the X1, X3, and X5 played a key role in driving volumes, reflecting the growing preference for premium SUVs in India.

Company officials attributed the record sales to a combination of product refreshes, expanding local assembly, and customer-centric initiatives, including flexible financing and digital sales platforms. BMW India also highlighted increased interest in electric and performance models, signalling a shift toward diversified luxury mobility options. Industry experts said the strong showing underscores resilient demand in the premium segment despite broader market challenges, positioning BMW India for sustained growth in the coming year.

Amaravati, January 9:
The Andhra Pradesh government has amended retail liquor pricing, leading to an increase of ₹10 on most bottle sizes and a 1 per cent increase in retailer margins. While some exempted categories — including certain 180 ml bottles and specific brands — remain unchanged, the broader price rise has sparked concern among consumers who say the changes may impact household expenses and demand adjustments in spending habits.

Officials defended the revision as part of fiscal policy adjustments, but residents warned of the inflationary effect on non-essential spending, particularly as the Sankranti festival approaches. Observers believe the move could also affect social dynamics around festive purchases and consumption patterns this season.