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May 31, 2011
Maruti may invest up to Rs 18,000 crore in Gujarat
The country's largest car maker, Maruti Suzuki India, on Tuesday said it, along with vendors, could invest up to Rs 18,000 crore (Rs 180 billion) in Gujarat as it looks to produce about 20 lakh (2 million) units in the long run in the state. India's IT capital: Bengaluru may lose crown!
Bengaluru may not remain India's 'Silicon Valley' for too long owing to its crumbling infrastructure and associated woes, says an Assocham study. Will tablets take over PCs in India?
Tablet personal computers (PCs), such as Apple's iPad might have taken the global consumer PC market by storm, but the effect might not entirely be the same in India. FAQ: Just what are NEFT and RTGS?
These facilities can only be used for transferring money within the country. India's FY11 GDP at 8.5%; Q4 growth slips to 7.8%
India's GDP growth has slowed down to 7.8 per cent for January-March quarter from 9.4 per cent in corresponding period of the previous year. Why it pays to promote CEOs from within
In the international study, 36 companies with CEOs promoted within the company outperformed others across seven measurable metrics: return on assets, equity and investment, revenue and earnings growth, earnings per share growth and stock-price appreciation, according to management consultancy AT Kearney. This is what Mr Mukherjee must focus on now
India's macroeconomic authorities must focus on fiscal stabilisation and Mukherjee has to provide the leadership as finance minister. I-T dept plans to accept refunds at ATMs
The department plans to give taxpayers the facility of applying for tax refunds and tax credits through ATMs. Singur on the boil; Mamata's promise not enough
Farmers are gettong ready for another agitation. PIX: A sneak peek into the new Merc C Class
The revised C-Class is expected to arrive in India somewhere in July 2011. Why your money is NOT safe in Ponzi schemes
Ponzi scheme, as I had explained earlier, is essentially a fraudulent investment scheme where money brought in by the newer investors is used to pay off the older investors. This creates an impression of a successful investment scheme. Jayalalithaa means business, goes by manifesto
On the first day at her office, J Jayalalithaa cleared seven files.
May 30, 2011
Worst drought in China in 50 years may hit its GDP
The drought in China that is impacting more than five per cent of the country's farmlands and is being described as the worst in 50 years, may affect its GDP this year and push up inflation, economists have said. 'Higher oil prices, inflation may hurt economy'
Noting that the country could 'well experience the effects of an oil-price shock,' Deloitte said that political instability in West Asia and a payment crisis with Iran are causes for concern. A director who builds malls and hospitals
It all started in 2004, when Nitish Kumar replaced Rabri Devi as chief minister. Prakash Jha, along with his long-term associate Manmohan Shetty, founded P&M Infrastructure. I-T dept to publish names of tax defaulters
The problem has been further compounded with several of the tax defaulters having created 'benami' assets to escape the dragnet. Market cap: India's top gainers and losers
The combined market capitalisation (m-cap) of five of the country's top10 firms grew by Rs 35,237.57 crore (Rs 352.37 billion) during last week, with Coal India emerging as the second most valued company after Reliance Industries. Mahindra Satyam to give second break to women pros
Msat said on Monday it is stepping up efforts to attract the talent across Asia-Pacific and India, two of its fastest growing markets. Amit Mitra, Tarun Das leave a long legacy
Ficci stood for the voice of a defensive, traditional Indian business class. For the first time Tihar jail has many biz execs!
There's an undercurrent of fear in business circles these days Quizzing: A new mantra to create brand loyalty
Brandandme.com uses quizzing and social conversation to increase brand familiarity. Godrej's new fridge comes with FM, MP3 player
Godrej Appliances has launched a music-enabled refrigerator, Godrej Edge SX MuziPlay, with FM radio and MP3 player. The refrigerator has additional facilities such as a mobile charging point with USB port. Should the top boss be from the family or outside?
Are Indian promoters ready to give up control and hand over the company to their professional managers? Indian CEOs who get Rs 1 crore-plus salary
Mukesh Ambani has got company of at least 29 fellow corporate executives, including four from his own group Reliance Industries, in terms of annual salaries running into crores of rupees for the latest fiscal. India rising: Where is it on the global stage?
A lot of people talk about India rising," Barack Obama declared in November when in Mumbai. "But, in our view, India has already risen." Smartphones can keep you off the laptops? Well. .
LG, Samsung and Apple have launched flagship models. FinMin arms fight over tax refunds
The Income-Tax Department has turned down a proposal by the Department of Economic Affairs to go slow on refunds to taxpayers. Don't ignore your debt portfolio
As a debt fund investor, it is important to know that bond prices move inversely to interest rates.
May 27, 2011
Maruti looking at Gujarat to set up new plant
The country's largest car maker Maruti Suzuki India is understood to be scouting for location to set up a manufacturing unit in Gujarat, which could be its first plant outside Haryana where it has been based since its inception in 1983. Tata JLR opens first assembly plant in India
The plant will initially assemble JLR's sport-utility vehicle Freelander 2 from completely knocked down kits shipped from the Halewood manufacturing unit in Liverpool, UK. PIX: Boeing's stunning 787 to fly in Japan soon
The Boeing 787-8, which costs $185.2 million is a long-range, mid-size wide-body, twin-engine jet airliner. Failed ATM transaction: Bank must repay in 7 days
The Reserve Bank of India on Friday directed banks to reimburse customers for amounts wrongfully debited from their accounts in failed ATM transactions within seven days of an account holder's complaint or else pay a Rs 100 per day compensation. Pay cash or no fuel: Oil cos to Air India
Oil companies last week sent a notice for stopping aviation turbine fuel supplies to Air India at some airports like Calicut and Jaipur, officials said in New Delhi. Why business houses left Bengal
Industry was the most obvious casualty of the Left's excesses. Now what lies ahead for the state? What 'didn't' Ratan Tata say?
When his comments on the work ethic of British workers and their unwillingness to work out of hours were widely reported, Ratan Tata quickly distanced himself from the row caused by his remarks. Photos: How Internet is creating jobs worldwide
Internet has a sweeping impact on growth, prosperity and has created 2.4 jobs for every job that it has destroyed. Crash exposes chinks in air ambulance services
The size of the industry in India is rather small but growing at 20 per cent a year. Unlike in the West, India does not have any dedicated air ambulances. Around 15 aircraft are so used when required. Mumbai among world's 26 'Cities of Opportunity'
Mumbai is the lone Indian city to feature among 26 'Cities of Opportunity' list compiled by PwC. Indian market key to Microsoft's future: Ballmer
Microsoft CEO Steven A Ballmer made a passionate presentation, introducing India to the Microsoft Cloud concept. How Hollywood uses Indian brands to promote films
Production houses tie up with local brands to promote movies with a '360-degree approach'. Soon, visit Bengaluru on Google
The search engine company said on Thursday it would capture the city's street view and make it available on Google Maps. A must-read guide for home buyers
You should also get the maximum tax benefit from your home loan. See if you can make your spouse a co-applicant and avail the tax benefits. You will simply double the tax benefits if there are two co-applicants. All about the war over IMF chief's post
The scramble for International Monetary Fund managing director's chair has escalated into a war of sorts with developing nations calling for a change in the power equation. India 4th most entrepreneur-friendly nation
India, along with the United States, Canada and Australia, has been ranked among the nations with the best cultures in the world for people to start a new business, a new global poll has showed.
May 26, 2011
Ferrari enters India, price starts at Rs 2.2 crore
Italian luxury sports car Ferrari on Thursday officially entered the Indian market with popular models such as the California, 458 Italia, 599GTB Fiorano and the latest FF at prices starting from Rs 2.2 crore (Rs 22 million) onward. Next IMF chief: India tries to build consensus
While most European countries are backing Lagarde, the developing countries are trying to build a consensus on nominating a person from the emerging nations as the next IMF chief. What are unit-linked pension plans?
These are market-linked pension products offered by life insurance companies. These plans are for those looking for long-term retirement plans or investment options. Faculty remark: Jairam says he has ample support
Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, who has triggered a fresh controversy over the calibre of the faculty of India's premier higher education institutes, on Thursday claimed he had ample support at home as well as abroad. No escape! Diesel, LPG to cost more from June
Price of diesel, LPG and kerosene will have to go up. Follow these 5 steps to enjoy retirement
There is more to retirement planning than money. The secret behind Cognizant's amazing success
It was in 2008 that the company entered in the Fortune 1000 ranking at 859th position. In three years, it has ascended 375 places to find a place in the prestigious Fortune 500 ranking. How to remit money abroad
"While you can approach money transfer agencies apart from banks to receive money, only a bank can help you send outward remittances," says Ravi Menon, head of foreign exchange at Cox and Kings. With Buddha out, Mamata is the new Brand Bengal
The Left regime has helped conjure perceptions about industrialists' proximity to a particular party, but that may not be the reality. SPECIAL: China betrays BRICS on IMF top job
According to the IMF sources, the 27-member European Union bloc had asked the Chinese for support for Lagarde. How UPA govt plans to promote India Inc abroad
To help consolidate India as a major global power, the Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government will unveil a new policy to promote Indian companies in international markets. Role India can play to ease food, fuel crisis
G20 needs to leverage its clout to play a more proactive role in stabilising food and fuel prices. Why Speak Asia seems to be like a Ponzi scheme
Of late Speak Asia (www.speakasiaonline.com) has been in the news and is being investigated by various regulatory agencies of the government, including the ministry of corporate affairs. Food inflation rises to 8.55%
Food inflation, as measured by the Wholesale Price Index, was on a declining trajectory for the previous three weeks. Internet gives more to India's GDP than China's
Growth is driven more by Internet services exports than the local consumption. Charitable trusts under I-T scanner
Enhanced scrutiny, modified auditors' report and new return form part of exercise to curb misuse of tax exemption. India, China leading global economic recovery: UN
While weaknesses in major developed economies continue to drag the global recovery. IMAGES: India's most expensive official residence
It is the largest residence of any chief of the state in the world. PHOTOS: World's longest-serving CEOs
Sometimes there are CEOs who are able to stay at the top for decades. Gold inches steadily towards record high
Standard gold continued its rising momentum 6th straight day on Wednesday recording a staggering Rs 620 or Rs 2.83 per cent rise since May 19. India: World's 3rd largest economy by 2030?
India is likely to grow faster, on average, than China over the next two decades.
May 25, 2011
IMF chief's post: India unhappy over selection
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has expressed disappointment at developing countries being ignored in the selection of the president of world's key financial body, the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Facebook plans ambassadors around the world
Facebook, which has more than 600 million users, is planning to assemble a new team that will have a network of ambassadors placed around the globe. iPhone 4 to be launched in India on May 27
Telecom operators Bharti airtel and Aircel today said they will start selling Apple's iPhone 4 in India from May 27. PHOTOS: Renault Fluence and its 3 closest rivals
No one ever expected that it would so soon re-enter the Indian car market. Misquoted? Majority agree with Tata's comments
Ratan Tata appears to be unusually prone to the misfortune of being "misquoted" or "quoted out of context", from being pressured to bribe a minister to British managers and Mukesh Ambani's display of opulence. Take control: don't let inflation erode returns
"Consumers can strategise on the non-core consumption basket front by downtrading, that is, purchasing non-premium versions of products that effectively deliver the same utility," says Ritika Mankar, economist, Ambit Capital. Future Group's appetite for food is set to grow
The Kishore Biyani-led group is scaling up operations with Foodhall, its latest venture in the food retail space, which would offer a different format to cater to the growing aspirations of consumers. IMAGES: World's 10 abandoned cities
World is full of abandoned cities. From Ambani's Antilla to Golibar slums
Indeed there is an extraordinarily stark contrast between the mansion in South Mumbai and the reality of Golibar -- with its fragile, tiny one room homes set amid open sewage channels in narrow lanes. Countries with the least virus threat!
Threat of computer viruses is increasing everyday. US court tells Infosys to provide info on B1 visas
Amid controversies over its use of the United States business visas, Infosys on Tuesday said an American court has sought documents and records related to the company's sponsorships and utilisation of B1 business visas.
May 24, 2011
BJP proud of IITs, IIMs; blasts Ramesh's comment
The BJP went on to add that India actually required 'world-class ministers'. The No. 1 concern for Indians: Rising food prices
The Reserve Bank of India, in its monetary policy for 2011-12 released earlier this month, had said that international commodity prices are a major area of concern. Soaring burial costs deepen China's grave crisis
The skyrocketing price of cemetery plots and funeral services has come has a shocker to millions of ordinary people. You know who I am, former IMF chief told maid
"Tests matched a DNA sample submitted by Strauss-Kahn and semen found on the shirt of the hotel maid," the Wall Street Journal reported quoting law-enforcement officials. Law catches up with DMK, but what about others?
The 2G scam is a perfect occasion for us to travel a bit further and punish all those who could have prevented the fraud and yet chose to remain silent. Should we fail, we would have learned no lesson from the 2G scam, says . Don't worry about the law anymore!
You can now find a lawyer online and take care of simple legal issues without leaving home. Ficci head wants to turn it into a global brand
Whenever people think of India, they will think of Ficci as a place they could go to facilitate investment, says Rajiv Kumar. TUTORIAL: Technical terms in mutual fund factsheet
While equity funds can charge an expense ratio up to 2.5 per cent, debt funds can charge up to 2.25 per cent. How Mahindra Satyam is shaping its success story
In just two years after taking over Mahindra Satyam (the brand identity of Hyderabad-based information technology outsourcing company Satyam Computer Services), its parent company Tech Mahindra is looking at inorganic growth to take Satyam, which it had nursed back to health, to do a marathon. Builders and developers cannot dictate policies
Government has sent a clear signal that builders and developers cannot dictate policies. Why insurance riders make claims easier
Though they come at a cost, buying them with the insurance policy can make a lot of sense. PIX: Skoda plans sub-Rs 10 lakh SUV
This is the first time a global company is looking to introduce an SUV in this price segment. How to profit from capital gains account scheme
It will shield you from paying capital gains tax on profits accrued from the sale of property while earning an interest on it. Singur: Bengal govt wants to expedite land return
"We will not let Mamata Banerjee's 26-day fast for Singur go waste. I have asked for the lease agreement and all correspondence with Tata Motors by Tuesday," Partha Chatterjee, who took charge as West Bengal commerce and industry minister, said. IMAGES: A journey through the amazing Audi museum
Audi's impressive museum at Ingolstadt, Germany houses 120 exhibits tracing over 100 years of automotive history. Column: I paid a bribe . . .
An initiative of a Bengaluru-based organisation Janagraha, www.ipaid abribe.com is an interactive website where people, who've had to resort to bribery and corruption to sort out matters, can tell their stories anonymously. Special: Here's what is wrong with most B-schools!
Apart from the top few, most business schools are struggling to survive. Pampered IITians make a start in helping the poor
Pampered by subsidised education, IITians make a small start in helping the underprivileged. But is it enough? Special: Amar Singh is also a powerful businessman
Singh, by his own admission, is a 'frequent' investor. "I am a shareholder in many companies. Being a shareholder is not a crime. I don't remember in how many companies I have invested."
May 23, 2011
BJP slams PM over 'Rs 85,000-crore coal scam'
Just a day after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh celebrated two years of the UPA-II rule, the Bhartiya Janata Party slapped a Rs 85,000-crore (Rs 850 billion) coal scam on him, claiming his direct culpability in the 'loot' as he held the portfolio between 2006 and 2009 since after coal minister Shibu Soren had resigned. Faculty of IITs, IIMs 'not world class': Ramesh
The institutes are excellent because of the quality of students. Brand value: Why India Inc is warming up to it
Even old fashioned brick and mortar manufacturing companies are waking up to measure their brand equity. IMAGES: ITC's unique brand building experience
Late entrant ITC is making competition count in the Rs 29,000-crore (Rs 290 billion) personal care industry. Is this the 'new normal' rate of growth for India?
When considering the economy's potential for rapid growth, most people's mind-sets are influenced by the fact that India did better than 9 per cent in each of the three years of 2005-08. How social networking lends a helping hand
Realising that the concept has caught the fancy of the Indian consumer, the company decided to market its stock of Apple iPhones and iPads on the Facebook page. Why the Sensex dipped below 18K
The markets had skid earlier in the day on the back of a dismal set of cues from the Asian front. How Acer aims to make it big in India
Acer is eyeing a bigger share of the Indian market with five tablet PCs and five smartphones in its portfolio. Big hike in diesel, LPG prices on the anvil
A week after the steep hike in petrol prices by Rs 5 a litre, the government on Monday said a ministerial panel is likely to meet in the next few days to take a decision on raising diesel, LPG and kerosene rates. Tata clarifies comments on Ambani's billion-$ home
"The report is out of context and factually incorrect. Tata's comments on wealth are in the larger context of the growing disparity in the society. The comments seem to have been deliberately sensationalised," a statement from Tata Sons said. Former IMF chief made advances on 3 other women
Moments before he was taken off a France-bound flight last week, Strauss-Kahn reportedly told the flight attendant, 'what a nice a**' or in French, 'Quel beau cul!', The New York Post reported. The world's most famous brand wars
This modern-day guerrilla warfare leaves us wondering that there is nothing as clear as black and white. PHOTOS: The Rs 14 lakh Renault Fluence launched
Renault is back in India on its own, and the Fluence sedan is its first offering. Infy to invest $150 mn to build campus in China
Company to invest $125-150 million to open a development centre in Shanghai. Top 10 web virus hosting countries
Report shows Internet viruses remain a problem.
May 20, 2011
7 next-gen cities planned between Delhi, Mumbai
India is finally set to give shape to its futuristic smart cities - world-class, self-sustainable habitats with minimal pollution levels, maximum recycling, optimised energy supplies and efficient public transportation. Delhi's per capita income reaches Rs 95,943
Gross state domestic product of the city went up by 10.53 per cent. Are the claims on health foods true?
Government scientists and industry experts have joined hands to evolve guidelines for advertisements claiming health benefits for what is called health foods in India and functional foods in the US. 2G scam: After Kanimozhi, will it be Ambani, Tata?
The answer to this million-dollar question may lie behind certain recent developments. Shahid Usman Balwa, Swan Telecom promoter and an accused in the 2G scam case, on May 18 PHOTOS: What rocked the world of business
Check out the current week's best photos from the world of global business, economics and trade. IMAGES: Recession grips Japan's economy
Japan's economy has derailed again. Shut down 23 non-working PSUs in Maharashtra: CAG
Describing these as non-working companies, the CAG in its latest report on the state tabled in the Maharashtra Assembly stated that since no purpose may be served by keeping these units in existence, the state government needs to expedite closing down of these non-working PSUs. Want to cut petrol bill? Check out these tips!
If drivers apply some common sense approaches, fuel bills can come down considerably. Strauss-Kahn gets bail, indicted on sex charges
Former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn was granted bail by a New York court shortly after he was formally indicted on all sexual assault charges. India Inc tops Mamata's guest list
Trinamool sources indicated that invitations had been extended to Tata Sons Chairman Ratan Tata and several senior executives of the Tata group. Five reasons why banks can reject loan
Applying for a home loan requires preparation on various fronts. Want to save money? Read these tips
Exercise a bit of restraint in a number of small-yet-effective ways. Need counselling on your loan? Read on
The Banking Codes and Services Board of India offers a free of cost credit counselling service to individuals who have taken home loans, personal loans, vehicle loan or incurred credit card debt up to a maximum limit of Rs 50 lakhs. D.light launches solar lantern for $8
Priced at $8, this lamp is designed for millions of people in emerging markets like India. Drive 333 km per charge in this electric car!
The prototype has successfully run 333 kilometres on a single charge. IMAGES: China's modern ghost town
About 30 km north of Dongsheng is the Kangbashi district of Ordos, which means 'palaces' in the Mongolian language, an area filled with thousands of residential apartments and duplex-style homes, built to house mainly workers for the nearby coal mines just outside the town. India among 6 nations set to rule global economy!
Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, South Korea and Russia will account for more than half of all global growth.
May 19, 2011
Give offs, annual leave to domestic workers: Sonia
NAC Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has written to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh suggesting that the proposed national policy for domestic workers should ensure a daily minimum wage without sex discrimination, weekly offs and paid annual leave. Govt creates elite unit to probe financial crimes
The specialised wing -- Directorate of Criminal Investigation (Income Tax) -- will be manned by hand-picked officers who are experts in financial and forensic investigations. Now, design your bank deposit as per your needs
Banks have several deposit schemes, which can be customised for people with varying needs. Deposit accounts can be opened by an individual in his own name (single account) or by two or more individuals jointly (joint account). What to do if your debit card fails you
Debit cards may have made it easy for us to forgo carrying any cash. Only, these cards have transactional hazards and are known to have let down their users on occasions. With profits down, SBI readies for a clean-up act
SBI sources said the other reason to clean up the balance sheet was to avoid any embarrassment at a later stage, when stressed assets would be thrown up by technology. All you want to know about recurring deposit
You have to apply for a recurring deposit account and ask the bank to deduct the stipulated amount from your savings or current account every month. Survey claims India short of talent!
India's results are well above the global average. It took 50 trips to Delhi to import a PC: Murthy
Outgoing Infosys co-founder and chairman N R Narayana Murthy on Wednesday said the sacrifices made by his colleagues in the initial days of the company was unparalleled. India's consumerism boom!Market to double in 5 yrs
The Indian consumer market for high-end food products is set to double to 200 million people in the coming five years, given the ambitiously driven entrepreneurship of Indian businessmen in developing new food-based opportunities. Buying a health cover? Read the fine print
Insurance advisors say it is imperative to compare the features on offer before buying a policy. A careful perusal of wordings will highlight the policy clauses unfavourable for you. Photos: Who among these will head the IMF now?
Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the head of the International Monetary Fund, who has been charged with a criminal sex act and is under arrest in the United States, has resigned from his position, leaving the global financial body to hunt for a new chief. $16 mn retention award for Citi's Vikram Pandit
Pandit has been taking home a token one dollar salary from Citigroup since 2009. A $300 home for poor? A $375-billion opportunity!
Prof Vijay Govindarajan is confident that an affordable, environmentally friendly home can be built for just $300 creating a $375-billion opportunity for corporations the world over. CBI shielding Tatas, Balwa tells court
The "CBI's heart beats for the Tatas", 2G scam accused Shahid Usman Balwa alleged in court today, questioning the agency's portrayal of the group as a "victim" of A. Raja's spectrum allocations. Global R&D service providers: Wipro leads
Wipro has emerged as the leader followed by HCL , Patni, Infosys , Mahindra Satyam and MindTree in the rating of global R&D service providers across various countries like India, China, Russia and Eastern Europe, according to a study. Tata successor list has a few group employees
Ratan Tata will step down in December next year after he turns 75. Why oil pricing is muddled in politics & populism
Oil pricing freedom as an idea can succeed only if the ownership of the key oil refiners (read the public sector oil companies) ceases to be government-dominated. They earn Rs 5.75 & the tea sells for Rs 25K
Simmering discontent over tea. PHOTOS: World's 20 most competitive nations
Recovery of financial markets pushed the US and Hong Kong to first place.
May 18, 2011
Who will be the new Railway Minister?
Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee would resign as Railway Minister on Thursday, a day ahead of being sworn in as West Bengal Chief Minister. Special: Here's Murthy's emotional farewell letter
Having nurtured Infosys for the last three decades, Narayana Murthy would be succeeded by eminent banker K V Kamath as Infosys' Chairman with effect from August 21. How Micro housing is becoming big in India
After micro finance, micro housing is becoming a buzz word. The sector is not only attracting domestic companies, but also luring foreign financial service firms and institutional players. IMF chief on suicide watch in jail: report
International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn, who is facing damaging allegations of sexually assaulting a hotel maid, has been put on suicide watch by prison authorities who fear he may try to kill himself. Taxmen recover Rs 30,000-crore black money
The CBDT is in the process of creating a Directorate of Criminal Investigation after getting approval from Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee last week. With Left routed, trade unions face tough times
With political equations changing in bastions of Left unionism, stiff challenges await the soldiers of strikes and bandhs. $1-trn for infra: RBI, Plan panel at loggerheads
What the industry and observers have been saying for quite some time -- that there is a lot of regulatory confusion on developing a corporate debt market -- has come out in the open with the RBI Governor and the Plan panel head speaking on the same topic in different languages. Images: India's best-managed companies
Information technology giant Tata Consultancy Services and financial services major HDFC have been named as India's two best managed companies in an annual poll conducted by Finance Asia magazine. Why LG bets big on 3D
LG extends the technology to a range of devices like laptops and mobile phones. Financial dos and don'ts when shifting jobs
If you switch jobs midway through the year and do not declare the earlier deductions to your new employer, he will use the same calculation to compute your tax liability. Infosys has given ESOPs worth Rs 50,000 crore!
Since its inception in July 1981 with a capital of Rs 10,000 that the current chairman, N R Narayana Murthy, borrowed from his wife, Infosys has given stock options worth Rs 50,000 crore (Rs 500 billion) to employees. World moans the 'death' of typewriters
Soon after the article came out on the last 500 office typewriters in the world of Godrej Prima brand, these became the favourite buzzword for the global media. So you think you are better than your boss?
If indeed you are better than your boss, you will definitely reach that coveted position. You just need to focus on your own performance and showcase it succinctly. IMAGES: The stunning NEW Hyundai Verna
The new Verna bears Hyundai's new design philosophy of 'Fluidic Sculpture'. Ratan Tata's successor? No final decision yet
Amid speculation over Tata Sons chairman Ratan Tata's successor, the group has said that the selection committee has interviewed several candidates, both internal and external, but no final decision has been taken. 5 months for Tata to save Singur lease deal
According to the lease agreement between Tata Motors and the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation, the lessor will have the option to terminate the lease if the land has not been used for three years or more, which will kick-in from October 2011. Tata Motors had pulled out of the Nano project in October 2008. Why the rupee could depreciate by 20% in 2 years
According to a report by financial and business research firm Evalueserve, there will be pressure on the Rupee unless steps are taken to fix certain structural issues like high current account deficit and dwindling investments.
May 17, 2011
Ambani gets more BofA shares worth Rs 72 lakh
Within weeks of granting shares worth about Rs 11 lakh (Rs 1.1 million), Bank of America has given fresh shares worth over Rs 72 lakh (Rs 7.2 million) to Mukesh Ambani as part of his annual fee for being a director of the United States banking major. 47% Indians say corruption got worse in 5 years
Support for Anna Hazare and anti-graft protests shows Indians recognise the problem is endemic. Indian govt spends only $32 per capita on health!
An abysmally low government spending on health -- at $32 per capita -- characterises the poor state of healthcare in India which is facing a 'double burden' of diseases afflicting both the poor and rich classes, a new WHO report has warned. IMF not to pay for Kahn's infamous hotel stay
It was during his stay at this Sofitel hotel that Kahn, who was appointed IMF managing director in 2007 with a salary in excess of $5,00,000 per year, was accused of indulging in sexual assault on a chambermaid. Should investors buy into LinkedIn's IPO hype?
It is looking to price its offering of 7.8 million shares between $32 and $35 a share, which will give it a valuation between $3 billion and $3.3 billion. Cybercriminals turn local, attack with Hindi spam
Spammers target unsuspecting victims with e-mails in Hindi. Foreign funds to NGOs: Why more scrutiny is needed
Speaking in the Rajya Sabha in 2010, whilst moving certain amendments to the FCRA, Home Minister P Chidambaram said that the government would like to ensure "that the foreign money does not dominate social and political discourse in India. There is enough money within India." Petrol consumption dropped in 2010-11
Last year witnessed a growth rate of 10.8 per cent against a 13.9 per cent rise in 2009-10. Corporate spying in India: The tools they use
Private detective agencies receive more than 10 requests a day by companies to spy on their rivals. Visas to Indian IT experts: Why UK is concerned
Many Indian IT companies use this route to transfer staff to offices in Britain. Will the new I-T return form make life simple?
Only salaried individuals, pensioners or those earning interest income can use the new form. IMAGES: It's raining millionaires in Shanghai!
In the bustling Chinese city of Shanghai, around 132,000 people have a personal wealth of 10 million yuan ($1.54 million). Indian EVMs get mandate abroad
The country has got its first firm order to export these machines to Namibia, while it is in talks with others, including Egypt and Saarc nations. How Skype will change Microsoft
What's next for the free-telephony service, en route from Luxembourg to Redmond. Building IP telephony into phones is cool, but the real impact would be in Miscrosoft's business software. PHOTOS: America's 20 most reputable companies
The reputation of corporate America after the economic crisis has turned positive.
May 16, 2011
Petro price hike: Govt distances itself amid stir
Amid protests from political parties over the hike in petrol prices, the government on Monday said the product was deregulated and the revision in the fuel rate was done by the oil marketing companies. Petrol price hike: What should be done about it?
So what do you think of this increase in the price of petrol? What do you think can be done to register a protest against such huge hikes? How do you plan to tackle or beat this increase? Tell us. After Hajmola's success, Dabur forays into mints
Dabur is piggybacking on the equity of its digestive brand Hajmola to enter a new segment in confectionery - mints. More pain! Diesel, LPG prices set to soar
The fall in global oil prices has trimmed the losses of state-owned oil companies, but it may not be enough to prevent a Rs 4 per litre increase in diesel prices and a Rs 20-25 per cylinder hike in LPG rates later this month. UP farmers get justice at cost of city flat buyers
Friday's Allahabad high court order quashing the acquisition of land by the Greater Noida Authority in Sahberi village of Gautam Budh Nagar district could affect several people who had booked apartments in projects located there. Narayana Murthy's VC fund can exit SKS now
Catamaran Management Services, the venture capital fund promoted by Infosys Technologies Chairman N R Narayana Murthy, is free to exit SKS Microfinance. Wipro gets serious about financial services arena
Wipro is trying to strengthen its presence in the banking, financial services and insurance segment by increasing its revenue share on par with other leading Indian information technology service companies. 'American CEOs' packages jump 28% in 2010'
After two consecutive years of decline, the pay package for top American executives saw a growth of 28 per cent in 2010, with the bonus payout component witnessing the maximum growth, says executive compensation research firm Equilar. SEWA promotes work-from-home option
SEWA has the advantage of having been around for the last four decades and the top brands are willing to introduce it to their suppliers in Delhi to get orders. H-1B visa demand falls as software scene changes
This April, visa applications to be issued for the US financial year beginning October saw a 50 per cent drop over last April. Here's how to plan for a secure future
While positive deviations are always welcome, it is important to be aware of the assumptions in the plan beforehand to prevent any dangerous outcomes. Sex case: Maid picks out IMF chief in line-up
Strauss-Kahn allegedly sexually assaulted the 32-year-old maid, who happened to be in his $3,000 a night suite at the Hotel Sofitel in Times Square on Saturday afternoon, thinking it was empty. How Infosys plans to rev up consulting biz
The company plans to strengthen consulting capability in addressing the needs for the next phase of growth. Sebi chairman says manipulators will not be spared
U K Sinha says he has a three-pronged strategy for handling the securities market. PHOTOS: World's 15 most unique bus stops
While in India, most bus stops and terminals are dirty and still lack basic amenities, here's how other nations have built superb bus stops creatively. Buzz around apps just got louder
Apps are no more restricted to smartphones and tablet PCs. Ratan Tata's 2nd innings in Bengal begins
Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata was in Kolkata on May 18, 2006, the day Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee started his second innings as chief minister of West Bengal, to announce the Nano small car project. Soon, a tablet PC for JUST Rs 10,000!
Apple's iconic iPad2 and Samsung's Galaxy Tab are set to face a local challenge. Now, it's cheaper to fuel planes than cars
The increase in petrol prices from Saturday midnight has made the fuel more expensive than aircraft turbine fuel, used to power planes. IMAGES: Nations with highest gold reserves
Gold prices in India have been escalating very fast of late and in the last week of April, it scaled a new peak by adding Rs 50 to a record price of Rs 22,520 per 10 grams.
May 13, 2011
Muhammad Yunus resigns from Grameen Bank
Yunus, 70, said he was relinquishing his post to prevent undue disruption of the bank's work. Why the Left lost West Bengal
The practitioners of all that Karl Marx had professed were vouching for the principles of Adam Smith by beating up farmers to forcibly acquire land for industrialists. Honda plans diesel City to beat competition
In response to challenge from new diesel models in India's premium mid-size sedan car segment, Honda is developing a diesel engine for Honda City. Wipro keen to sell diaper, vanaspati brands
Revamp zeroes on consumer brands facing stiff competition, slower growth. Harshad's assets may fetch Rs 1,000 crore!
The government on Thursday said it expected Rs 800-1,000 crore (Rs 80-100 billion) to be recovered from liquidation of the assets of late stock broker Harshad Mehta who was convicted in the stock market scam of 1990s. Need cash? Get a loan against your car
It's not widely advertised, but a few banks and non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) provide loans against used cars. How a pilot paid a bribe of Rs 50K for a licence!
One more pilot was arrested for allegedly using forged marksheets to procure commercial flying licences, taking the total number of people arrested in such cases to 19. Why engineers, docs are joining Civil Services
In the present times of job uncertainties and layoffs, the lure of bureaucracy is clear.
May 12, 2011
Bank row: NCP eager to teach Congress a lesson
As a fallout of the dissolution of the administrative board of Maharashtra State Co-operative Bank by the Reserve Bank of India, the Nationalist Congress Party is eager to teach its ally, Congress, a lesson. What and how to teach teenagers about money?
Teenagers should be taught the importance of money. PHOTOS: World's most expensive wines
Charm of these expensive bottles of wine is in the joy of collecting, not consuming. 4G battle heating up: It's Ambani versus Mittal
As Ambani plumped for the CDMA technology to carry his data-driven business plan, he found himself going eyeball-to-eyeball with Sunil Mittal, the leader of the GSM pack. Loans: Rights of banks and customers
Banks have the right to file a suit with the debt recovery tribunal and possess the security. Infosys blames AP govt for delay in SEZ
Nasdaq-listed Infosys has said it was the failure of the state government in fulfilling the agreed conditions that led to the delay in executing its 448-acre IT Special Economic Zone project in Hyderabad. Your car may soon run on oil from food waste!
British fuel supplier Greenergy International announced that it has developed a new technology to extract cooking oil from food waste and blend them with diesel to produce an environmentally-friendly fuel. SC pulls up ED in Hassan Ali case
Court criticised ED for not mentioning the filing of a charge sheet in its status report. Is gold a good mortgage asset?
In a high interest rate regime when all banks are offering loans at a lofty price, rates for loans against gold continues to be cheaper. A flying robot may soon replace CCTV camera
Users simply need to point to a place on Google Maps on its touch-screen controller and the robot flies there at 30mph to record high quality video that can be beamed to an iPhone in real-time. The TOP 5: India-based IT services firms boom
The top five India-based IT services providers grew by $4.5 billion in 2010, according to a study by IT consulting major Gartner. Why India must stabilise its ties with Iran
The arrangement will allow Iran to buy Indian products, but not invest in India. The list of items that Iran can import is still being worked out to ensure that there are no items classified as "dual use". How will the car loan scenario impact you?
Base rate as of now stands at 8.5 per cent for SBI. PHOTOS: Check out these fabulous floating homes!
IMFS has tasted success with innovative technology in buildings residential communities. Find doctors just a click away!
Now, you can select a doctor (specialist), upload medical reports and also seek consultation from global specialists through just a click. How is the area of a flat calculated?
Difference between the useable and saleable areas is a result of the space included in the calculation. PHOTOS: Amazing office buildings in India
India prides to have some of the most contemporary designs for offices. Recurring Deposits: Why they can be a boon
Many a time, we let go of our aspirations because it seems difficult to achieve them at one go. Binayak Sen named on Plan panel board
The Plan panel on Wednesday said it has appointed civil rights activist Binayak Sen, convicted for sedition, on the board of one of its steering committees to give input for 12th Plan (2012-17) on health related issues.
May 11, 2011
Rajaratnam found guilty, faces 25-yr jail term
Raj Rajaratnam, the main accused in the largest hedge fund insider trading case in the United States history was on Wednesday found guilty on all 14 counts of securities fraud and conspiracy. Is the government killing Air India?
State of Air India reveals one of the sorriest aspects of Indian public life. What makes Enfield a success in India
Now, with the demand far outstretching their production due to capacity constraints, the Chennai-based company is going full throttle to roll out its expansion plans to address the rising demand for the past 18 months. IMAGES: 5 fine sedans coming your way!
Here is a look at five sedans that are likely to make it to Indian showrooms this year. Here's a financial checklist for home-bound NRIs
"The first step is getting your residential status changed in all documents, including Permanent Account Number (PAN) card for taxation, ration card, etc, which takes months and endless rounds to offices," says an exasperated Mehta, adding that getting oriented with the laws and regulations comes much later. Why US fears crippling cyber attack from China
One subject of the third round of the US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue will be cybersecurity. Short-term options from mutual funds? Here's help
Mutual funds offer liquid funds and ultra short-term funds in the debt category, which are suitable for short investment periods. Ultra short-term funds were earlier known as liquid plus funds. Why TCS, Cognizant surged ahead of Infosys, Wipro
Change of guard and strategy has rejigged the financials and order of top IT companies. Google to make smart bulbs, dishwashers!
According to Google, the new range of 'almost anything electrical' household devices would be launched by the end of this year, and wireless technology will help these devices to communicate with tablets, The Daily Telegraph reported. 'Facebook users' details inadvertently leaked'
Hundreds of thousands of Facebook users account details could have been 'inadvertently' leaked to third parties, in particular advertisers, over the years, according to data security solutions provider Symantec. Meet the billionaire who bought Warner Music
The conglomerate controlled by Len Blavatnik, the Russian-born billionaire, has been declared the winner of an auction for Warner Music Group. B-school grads dump PSUs, eye big pay in pvt firms
PSUs say with the economy back on track, the students are preferring private sector companies due to fatter pay packets. IMAGES: 8 cars that have been in the news lately
The sedan segment in the country has seen a lot of action lately. HSBC bank under US taxman's scanner
The move has raised several questions. PHOTOS: The world's 25 biggest power plants
The United States, China and Japan are the largest producers of electricity. Now turn your wall or table into a computer!
Husain, along with his partner Mohammed Azharudin, has created a surface computing mechanism whereby large surfaces like table tops, walls or large LCD screen can be turned in to touch screens that are capable of performing various computing tasks.
May 10, 2011
Sebi warns bourses on money from Iran, North Korea
Fearing possible black money flow and terror financing risks from Iran and North Korea into the Indian stock market, the Securities and Exchange Board of India has asked bourses to be cautious in dealings with funds and entities from those countries. Nooyi, Jha among America's highest paid CEOs
PepsiCo's India-born chief Indra Nooyi and Motorola Mobility's Sanjay Jha are among the highest paid chief executive officers in the United States, according to new estimates that say salaries and bonuses for chief executives running 350 major companies surged 11 per cent to $9.3 million in 2010. Petrol price may be hiked by Rs 3
A hike in diesel and domestic LPG prices has been deferred for now, but an increase in petrol prices later this week looks imminent. IMAGES: The new Maruti Swift and its six rivals
The Maruti Swift 2011 was recently voted the safest supermini in the UK. Is India trying to control how you use Internet?
In April 2011, the Indian government's Department of Information Technology issued new regulations, Information Technology Rules, 2011, under which any content deemed 'disparaging', 'harassing', 'blasphemous' or 'hateful' can be banned. Of social enterprise & how banks start food crisis
At present analysis like this tends to remain in a separate domain from the realm where there is an upbeat excitement about the power of social enterprises to change millions of lives for the better. Hope of divestment floats, again
The government has fixed a target of generating Rs 40,000 crore (Rs 400 billion) through sale of stake in public sector undertakings (PSUs) this financial year. Cheaper cars will hurt environment, says book
The race among Indian automobile manufacturers to make cheap cars, initiated by Tata's Nano will further create pollution, road congestion, global warming and health problems, says a new book. How to tackle rising interest rates?
"Any payment above EMIs is considered as payments towards the principal and would result in shorter tenure. This, in turn, will lower the total interest amount you pay on your home loan." The world's top 20 brands; ICICI at no. 53
A software giant has emerged as the world's most valuable brand. Meet the world's richest royals
A look at the world's richest surviving royal families, who still command significant power and resources. After Sai Baba, can Puttaparthi's economy survive?
travels to Puttaparthi to find out the fate of an economy now bereft of the man it was centered on. PHOTOS: World's stunning railway stations - II
Take a look at some of the most stunning railway stations. Why buying a home has nothing to do with high EMIs
Hence, at the end of the day the reason why people are not buying real estate is because real estate, especially in the larger cities, is terribly expensive. ICICI CEO to get Rs 7 lakh per month as allowance
ICICI Bank, the country's largest private sector lender, has revised allowances paid to its executive directors, including that of its managing director and CEO Chanda Kochhar.
May 09, 2011
Mukesh Ambani forgoes Rs 24 crore paycheque
Company's remuneration for top management personnel has declined. Get ready to order to from a virtual menu
Leading players like Intercontinental, Taj and Four Seasons, among others, have integrated tablet PCs across restaurants, lobbies and for guests checking into their hotels. How divestment in 1998 could have saved Air India
The present turmoil in Air India has thrown up many alternatives including privatisation. Memories are short. Recalling the past may be relevant. RIL sacks 700; Mukesh Ambani on growth plans
The company's staff strength fell by 704 workers during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011, and stood at 22,661 employees. Pawan Hans grounding halts work near China border
With Pawan Hans' helicopters no longer available to ferry bulldozers and materials to road building sites in remote areas, this crucial programme is experiencing further delay. Is RBI fighting the wrong war?
Still, in a week when the Reserve Bank of India has said that combating inflation is now its primary focus, it is important to ask: is RBI fighting yesterday's war, instead of peering into the future to glean what might be coming -- as monetary policy is supposed to do? Tata Motors starts sending Nano overseas
According to figures released by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers on Monday, Tata Motors exported 498 units last month as compared to just a single unit in the corresponding month last year. Will Coke Studio work for the cola major?
Given that teens as a segment forms a critical part of Coca Cola's spend, a significant part of the annual budget will be spent on Coke Studio. Financial tips for young adults
Many think managing money is about learning the concepts, terminology and processes. Developing the right attitude towards money is perhaps precious at a young age, when people begin to deal with money they can call their own. IMAGES: Get ready! 4 new hatchbacks are coming
There are no official confirmed dates available but here's a look at what they have to offer. Now, a super premium soap at Rs 630!
Karnataka Soaps and Detergents will launch a super premium brand in June. Seagram finds innovative way to promote whisky
With the government imposing a ban on direct, indirect and surrogate advertising of tobacco and alcohol products in India, such brands have found innovative ways to build visibility. Inflation hits 45% of household saving rates
Majority of the respondents said that they have been falling behind financially and their standard of living has deteriorated. Education loans: From India or US?
According to data from the Open Door Report published by the Institute of International Education, US was the preferred destination for Indian students, with 104,897 of them opting for courses in 2010. Which services should not be taxed? Your views
In order to broaden the tax net, the government has sought public opinion on possibility of a negative list for service tax meaning that all services which are not mentioned in it would be taxed under the proposed GST regime. SPECIAL: Should you be queuing up for the iPad2?
With a host of new features, the device is definitely worth a buy. PHOTOS: World's 10 most amazing railway stations
Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Berlin Central Station) is the largest crossing station in Europe. How to invest wisely in midcap segment
In the last one year, the Sensex has fallen 2.17 per cent, while the BSE midcap index has risen 2.08 per cent. And, there is scope for value picking that can yield good returns.
May 06, 2011
How corruption threatens India's security
It is only a matter of time before a numbered account of a prominent Indian in a tax haven finds its way to the hands of Chinese, American or Pakistani intelligence. I have been forced to compromise: Jairam
Opposing 'regularisation of illegality' which he described as 'a peculiar Indian characteristic', Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh on Friday said that many times he too has been forced to compromise in cases of violations of green norms. Is it time to clean up Indian health care system?
Emergence of malpractice in the delivery system is the biggest threat. EduVARTA: Using SMS to educate rural youth!
Ghate plans to charge the students a nominal fee of Rs 33 annually for this service. BPL launches LED lantern for rural market
Product has been launched in Uttar Pradesh due to its large geography and rural household base. AI remains crippled; 3rd round of talks today
With the strike still on, the airline has grounded up to 90 per cent of its operations and has been operating about 30 flights a day besides some charter flights from Kingfisher and Air Arabia. What are close-ended schemes?
These are schemes launched by mutual fund houses, wherein, one can invest only during the new fund offer period. Gopalakrishnan on challenges facing Infosys
In a discussion with Bibhu Ranjan Mishra and Pradeesh Chandran, executive co-chairman designate S Gopalakrishnan talks about the challenges Infosys faces. Meet India's chief economic advisor, Kaushik Basu
North Block hasn't made a bureaucrat out of the chief economic advisor yet IMAGES: SUVs under Rs 10 lakh in India
Force Motor planning to launch a Sports Utility Vehicle in the country. US to push China to let yuan strengthen faster
The US will also try to persuade Beijing to make it easier for foreigners to make portfolio investments in China. Idea takes 3G bets on rural market
Idea Cellular has gone off the beaten track in its 3G growth strategy. US Labour Secretary denies plan to kill H-1B visa
H-1B visa programme has over the years brought hundreds of thousands of Indian skilled professionals to the United States. India to remain an economic superpower in Asia
India and China will remain the fastest growing economies in Asia-Pacific by expanding at respective rates of 8.7 per cent and 9.5 per cent in 2011, much above the average of the region, UN agency ESCAP said. IMAGES: India's most competitive states
Competitiveness helps states catch up with each other. Nestle: Once bitten, but not shy
The foods major has moved to higher price points even though a similar strategy flopped last year. Will it be second time lucky? Global CEOs rate India, US, China, Germany, Brazil
PricewaterhouseCoopers surveyed 1,201 chief executives in 69 countries. Cognizant joins the Fortune 500 club
Adding another feather to its cap, IT major Cognizant has joined the prestigious league of Fortune 500 companies. Osama hunt: This is what US taxpayers paid
While America quoted $5 million for anyone who captures Osama in 1998, little did it realize that the price it would pay to nab him could run into billions of dollars. 'Indian aviation to need $30 billion in 15 years'
The aviation sector needs $30 billion worth of investment over the next 15 years to keep up with booming passenger and cargo traffic, Secretary Nasim Zaidi said on Friday.
May 05, 2011
IMAGES: How Samsung is making it big in India
"We have the potential to reach the No.1 position in numerous categories in a country like India where markets are maturing and the potential for growth is unlimited," said JS Shin, president of Samsung Electronics Southwest Asia, while unveiling its new mobile devices at the company's recent Southwest Asia regional forum. Noel Tata to head Tata Group's logistic arm
"Noel Tata has taken over as chairman of Drive India Enterprise Solutions Limited (DIESL), signifying the growing importance that the Tata group has placed on logistics," the group's supply chain provider said on Wednesday. Ranbaxy may pay $1 bn to settle FDA fine
Ranbaxy Laboratories and the US health regulator are reportedly negotiating a settlement. Now, get a 'Pure Room' at a luxury hotel
With luxury hospitality chains competing to offer intangibles like the best sleep in town and the purest air to breathe, a 'pure room' is one of the latest innovations to be marketed - as one enabling guests to sleep better and breathe fresher, by keeping allergens at bay! Why silver prices are rising and will keep rising
While there are a number of fundamental reasons behind the rally, the immediate reasons behind the price of silver going up are pretty different. PHOTOS: World's most expensive yachts!
Yacht is one of the ultimate toys of the rich. The 25 best employers in India
Aon Hewitt, the global human resource consulting and outsourcing business of Aon Corporation, has announced the results of its 7th Best Employers in India 2011 study. How Mercedes manages to hold its ground in India
German luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz witnessed the best-ever first quarter this year since it started operations in India 15 years ago. IMAGES: World's biggest arms-producing companies
Every year over $1.5 trillion are spent on military expenditures worldwide. Ladakh: The new hot tourist spot this summer
Bookings rise by 20 per cent. Taxman saved Rs 4,000 crore due to quick refunds
"In the month of April, we have issued more than 20 lakh (Rs 2 billion) refunds all over the country which is a record number of refunds issued in April," Central Board of Direct Taxes chairman, Sudhir Chandra, told reporters in Mumbai.
May 04, 2011
IMAGES: A peek into the stunning BMW Vision
The crowd gathered at Prabhadevi in Mumbai witnessed the shooting of Mission Impossible 4 with a futuristic looking BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car, second generation Indian BMW 650ci and a BMW 5 series with a modified front to fit and rear bumpers for cameras. Air India pilots may call off strike
Air India's domestic operations remained crippled on Wednesday, with the pilots continuing their strike for the eighth day, as informal efforts were mounted to initiate talks with the agitators. Why politicians don't want to fight corruption
Corruption, it is often said, flourishes in weak states. Therefore, those who are the beneficiaries of corruption, seek to ensure that the Indian state remains weak. Breaking down Ulip charges for you
Not all life insurance policies disclose their charges to policyholders. Mobile number portability: Vodafone leads
Nine million subscribers opt for mobile number portability in first three months of its launch. Tata Nano for Pakistan? Industrialist hopes so
The Tata Nano, the world's cheapest car, could be cruising on Pakistani roads if the governments of India and Pakistan remove bottlenecks standing in the way of joint ventures and investments between the two countries. Jet asked to pay Rs 478-crore dues to Sahara
Justice Dhananjay Chandrachud, however, rejected the petition filed by Sahara claiming Rs 2,000 crore (Rs 20 billion) as the total sum for the take over instead of the renegotiated amount of Rs 1,450 crore (Rs 14.5 billion) agreed between Jet and Sahara. India's challenge is to make growth inclusive: ADB
Challenge before Indian policy makers was to make growth inclusive and manage infrastructure investments better. Petrol, diesel may cost Rs 3-4/litre more soon!
A Rs 3-4 a litre hike in the price of petrol, which had been freed from government control last June, is also on the cards immediately after polling in the last phase of Assembly elections is completed on May 10. Mercedes plans Rs 15-20 lakh cars for India!
German premium car maker Mercedes-Benz is looking at expanding its portfolio by introducing A and B Class cars in the country within two to three years, to take on competition. Banks admit they will pass on cost to customers
Savings rate and returns from debt funds will be nullified by high borrowing rates. Why 50% US green card holders want to return home
Survey participants included permanent residents, US citizens and work visa holders. America vs China: Which is the real superpower?
Using purchasing power parity estimates narrows the differences between the two economies. 7 Asian nations = 45% global GDP by 2050
The engines of Asia's re-emergence - India, China and five other economies -- will account for 45 per cent of the global GDP by 2050, according to a report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). What China can buy with $3-trillion forex reserves
China keeps most of its foreign reserves in the United States Government securities. Amazing Pics: The world's 25 unusual buildings
The Krzywy Domek (Crooked House) is an irregularly-shaped building in Sopot, Poland. Kamath reveals his plans for Infosys
K V Kamath says he can never step into Narayana Murthy's rather large shoes, but would do his best to ensure Infosys continues to adhere to the highest standards of corporate governance. Apple workers forced to sign 'no suicide' pledge
Workers in China's Apple iPad and iPhone factories were forced to sign pledges that they would not attempt to kill themselves, an investigation has revealed. RBI on why rate hike is 'good' for India
While the common citizen will benefit from the central bank's action, the policy stance is consistent with sustaining high growth in the medium term. 2nd Green Revolution to happen in Bihar: Kalam
Farmers in Paliganj are 'immensely contributing' towards optimising foodgrain productivity, former President A P J Abdul Kalam said on Tuesday. RBI to set bank executives' pay from 2012
Salaries of top management executives at private and foreign banks will have to be as per the Reserve Bank of India's guidelines from next fiscal, central bank said on Tuesday, while asking the lenders to start preparing for the new wage rules.
May 03, 2011
It's okay to give and accept bribes: Young India
Around 53 per cent of youngsters believe it is okay to offer bribes and 39 per cent said that it is fine to accept one. Why RBI should have freed the savings rate
Such a move would have allowed different banks to pay different rates of interest on their savings accounts, like is the case with fixed deposits currently. IPR violations: India, China, Pak under US scanner
Twelve countries - India, Pakistan, China, Russia, Algeria, Argentina, Canada, Chile, Indonesia, Israel, Thailand and Venezuela - are on the Priority Watch List. Corruption: How it corrodes Brand India
Contrary to popular belief that liberalisation of the economy would prevent corruption, the deepening of the reforms process since the early 1990s is seen as having increased the opportunities for corruption. Strike still on: AI declares no work, no pay
Air India on Tuesday announced that no work, no pay principle will be implemented to counter the pilots' strike that continued to disrupt its flights for the seventh day, as the Delhi High Court rapped both sides for their adamant attitude and failure to resolve the crisis. The man behind NIIT's success
Considered a visionary, Rajendra S Pawar was years ahead of his time in realising the importance of IT (information technology) education in India. Air India strike: HC pulls up management, pilots
With the strike by Air India pilots entering the seventh day, Delhi high court on Tuesday rapped the airline management and the pilots' association for their rigid attitude and appointed a counsel to assist it in resolving the stand off. Merc launches sports cars @ Rs 98.5 lakh
The sports car 'SL 350' is powered by a 3.5 litre V6 engine while sports utility vehicle 'GL 500' will run on a 5.4 litre V6 engine. As rural India goes hi-tech
FMCG and retail giants are making good use of technology to reach out to rural India. Home, auto loans to be dearer as RBI raises rates
The RBI has also increased the saving bank rate by 50 basis points to 4 per cent to give higher returns to depositors in the wake of high inflation. Insurance policies will be held in demat account
Like dematerialisation of securities, it will offer dual benefits of cost-effectiveness and convenience. What are policy rates and how do they affect you?
The rate of interest at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to other banks is called repo rate. At present, it stands at 6.75 per cent. Sports stars asking for crores for endorsement
While most Commonwealth Games winners are asking for 20-35 per cent more, the young stars of India's world cup win have doubled their rates. Why fixed deposits are better than debentures
Issuing debentures is one way by which companies raise loans. How TCS became a global company
Indian information technology software and services industry is truly the lighthouse of modern India. Should you invest in Ulips?
These products do not suit everyone even though they are flexible and facilitate investments in debt and equities. Amar Bose of Bose Corp donates majority of stock
Amar Bose has given his alma mater MIT a majority of the stock of his audio equipment maker company. Narayana Murthy on life post Infosys
Its longest-serving CEO (he held the position from 1981 to 2002), he leaves Infosys when the gap between it and the number one information technology services company (TCS) is growing wider.
May 02, 2011
Home, car, personal loans may rise
Ahead of its annual credit policy, the RBI also said the government's inability to raise oil prices in line with increase in the international prices poses a 'significant medium-term risk' to the economy. How freeing the savings bank rate will help
The case for deregulation of the savings bank deposit rate by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is becoming stronger day by day. It is time India returned to a system favoured by most modern economies around the world. India's fighter plane deal: All about business!
It might be a good idea to look beyond American disappointment (understandable) and pique (avoidable). Trusts, NGOs brought under income tax radar
CBDT sets up committee to detect leakages in tax-exempt sectors. Rating south India's 3 capitals: Bengaluru worst
A whistle-stop five-day tour of three south Indian state capitals (Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad) yielded a variety of impressions but here is my overall verdict: Bengaluru is the worst-managed of the three and Hyderabad by far the best. India to be the world's largest economy by 2050
India's share in the world gross domestic product (GDP) has increased from around three per cent in 1990 (at purchasing power parity-adjusted exchange rates) to around five per cent now, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in the world in recent years. Airlines asked not to charge exorbitant fares
The directive came at a meeting DGCA chief E K Bharat Bhushan held with senior officials of private airlines, following complaints that exorbitant spot-fares being charged by the carriers in the wake of cancellation of Air India flights because of the ongoing pilots' strike. Pilots' strike will not see another day: HC
The Delhi high court on Monday asked striking Air India pilots to take a decision to resume work. India on a roll, auto sales soar
Automobile companies put in an impressive show in April. A 40 km per litre diesel Tata Nano soon!
Tata Motors is planning to launch a Nano model that will run 40 kilometres on a litre of diesel, matching the mileage of a typical 180cc motorcycle. Wipro variable pay now linked to staff's accounts
Also, dedicated resources for top 60 clients, in a set of moves to encourage growth. China has the key to restore global imbalances
The G24 did not agree with the proposed IMF framework for staff advice to member countries on managing capital flows and its inclusion in fund surveillance. How rich Indians can help the poor
Would more Indians be better off if rich Indians were more austere? Can Kamath solve Infosys' midlife crisis?
India's premier software services company, Infosys Limited, has reached out to its banker, the non-executive chairman of ICICI Bank, K V Kamath, to step into the shoes of its founder N R Narayana Murthy. PHOTOS: The art of the automobile!
The exhibition -- The Art of the Automobile, Masterpieces from the Ralph Lauren Collection -- at Les Arts Decoratifs Museum in Paris will be on till August 28. How to pay when travelling abroad
Carry a judicious mix of cash, travellers' cheques, debit/credit cards and prepaid cards.
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