Indian equity markets witnessed a steep decline as benchmark indices BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50 plunged amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Investor sentiment weakened due to surging crude oil prices, persistent foreign capital outflows, and depreciation in the rupee. The downturn reflects broader global market instability, with risk aversion dominating trading behavior. Analysts indicate that continued uncertainty in international markets, coupled with macroeconomic pressures, could sustain volatility in the near term.

The Government of India has unveiled an ambitious plan to deploy 45,000 electric buses across urban centers, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable mobility and pollution reduction. Under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, 10,000 air-conditioned e-buses will be introduced in 116 cities by 2027, followed by a new initiative targeting an additional 35,000 buses. 

Wipro Limited has announced a significant expansion of its operations in South Korea, marked by an enlarged office footprint in Seoul and the launch of a new Innovation Lab. The initiative underscores Wipro’s commitment to strengthening its presence in key global markets while accelerating innovation-led growth. The Seoul lab will focus on emerging technologies across automotive, manufacturing, and industrial sectors, supporting advanced applications such as AI-driven operations and smart manufacturing.

Asgard Alcobev Ltd has appointed Ronak Jain as its Managing Director, marking a pivotal leadership transition aimed at accelerating long-term growth and strategic realignment. With over 15 years of experience in the alcoholic beverages industry and diversified exposure across manufacturing sectors, Jain is expected to strengthen operational efficiency and expand market presence. 

China has raised domestic fuel prices in response to rising global oil costs and mounting geopolitical uncertainty linked to potential prolonged conflict in the Middle East. The price adjustment, implemented by the country’s top economic planner, reflects a strategic effort to manage supply risks, stabilize domestic markets, and cushion economic disruption. 

The Reserve Bank of India has resumed net purchases of US dollars, acquiring USD 2.526 billion from the spot foreign exchange market in January after seven consecutive months of net sales. This marks a notable shift in the central bank’s currency management strategy, reflecting evolving macroeconomic conditions and liquidity considerations. The move suggests a recalibration of intervention policies aimed at stabilizing the rupee, managing forex reserves, and addressing external sector dynamics.

India’s benchmark equity indices ended modestly higher after a volatile trading session, with the Sensex and Nifty gaining around 0.5 per cent. Early optimism drove sharp intra-day rallies, but gains were pared as concerns over rising fuel-driven inflation tempered investor sentiment.

Patel Engineering has won a Rs 230 crore contract for pre-construction works on the 1,125 MW Dorjilung Hydroelectric Power Project in Bhutan. The project, awarded by Dorjlung Hydro Power Limited, marks a strategic expansion of the company’s presence in cross-border infrastructure development. 

Lexus India has marked its entry into the luxury electric vehicle segment with the launch of the ES500e, priced at Rs 89.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The premium sedan offers an estimated driving range of 580 km on a single charge, positioning it as a competitive offering in India’s evolving EV landscape. 

HDFC Bank witnessed a sharp decline in its share price following the sudden resignation of its chairman, Atanu Chakraborty, who stepped down citing ethical concerns. The development unsettled investor sentiment, leading to a steep erosion in market capitalization and dragging benchmark indices lower. The stock fell to its 52-week low, reflecting heightened uncertainty around governance and leadership continuity.