News for 'Asia Region'

Office construction activity declines to four-quarter low

Office construction activity declines to four-quarter low

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

New completions in India's office real estate sector fell by 36 per cent to 9.7 million square feet in Q1 2026, the lowest in four quarters, primarily due to developers adopting a cautious stance amid global uncertainties, particularly in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Despite this, office absorption increased by 20 per cent, indicating strong occupier demand.

Oil price crash as Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, easing 'war-risk' premium

Oil price crash as Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, easing 'war-risk' premium

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Global energy markets saw a significant correction as oil prices nosedived following Iran's announcement that the Strait of Hormuz has been fully reopened, dismantling the 'war-risk' premium that had gripped the market.

Retail Inflation Inches Up to 3.4% in March, Driven by Food and Fuel

Retail Inflation Inches Up to 3.4% in March, Driven by Food and Fuel

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

India's retail inflation marginally increased to 3.4 per cent in March, up from 3.21 per cent in February, primarily due to an uptick in certain food items and the initial impact of the West Asia crisis on fuel prices, according to government data.

Gorilla Technology Boosts AI Infrastructure Collaboration With Yotta

Gorilla Technology Boosts AI Infrastructure Collaboration With Yotta

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

UK-based Gorilla Technology Group is expanding its AI infrastructure collaboration with Yotta Data Services in India, deploying additional GPU cards to support large-scale AI compute infrastructure.

US-Iran peace talks stall in Pakistan: What derailed the deal

US-Iran peace talks stall in Pakistan: What derailed the deal

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

The US and Iranian delegations left Pakistan after failing to reach an agreement in historic talks aimed at resolving the West Asia conflict and stabilising global energy markets.

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Strait of Hormuz opens to ships but marine covers to stay pricey

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Despite Iran allowing 'non-hostile vessels' through the Strait of Hormuz, marine insurance premiums are expected to remain elevated due to persistent high-risk classifications and ongoing geopolitical tensions, with experts cautioning that the threat of attacks and collateral damage still exists.

'Bullying, excessive demands': Why Iran is wary of US talks

'Bullying, excessive demands': Why Iran is wary of US talks

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran's National Security Committee, stated that diplomatic talks with the US are governed by national interest and security, viewing negotiations as an extension of military efforts.

Fuel price hike on cards? Puri says oil companies are losing Rs 1,000 cr a day

Fuel price hike on cards? Puri says oil companies are losing Rs 1,000 cr a day

Rediff.com12 May 2026

India possesses two months of fuel stockpiles and faces no supply concerns despite global energy disruptions, according to Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. However, state-run fuel retailers are incurring losses of up to Rs 1 lakh crore in a single quarter due to elevated crude prices and unchanged retail fuel prices, raising questions about the sustainability of these losses.

Dabur's robust India biz showing lifts shares

Dabur's robust India biz showing lifts shares

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Dabur India's shares rose 3.7 per cent after reporting in-line Q4FY26 results, driven by a healthy 10 per cent growth in its India business, despite some analysts remaining cautious about future execution.

'Only they can play that role': Tharoor's dig at Pak over US-Iran talks

'Only they can play that role': Tharoor's dig at Pak over US-Iran talks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor discusses India's role in the US-Iran peace talks taking place in Islamabad, emphasising the importance of peace over competition with Pakistan and highlighting India's regional interests.

Strait of Hormuz changed irreversibly: Iran's big warning amid Trump's ultimatum

Strait of Hormuz changed irreversibly: Iran's big warning amid Trump's ultimatum

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The naval command underlined recent regional developments, which have now established a new reality in which extra-regional powers, led by Washington, DC, can no longer dictate terms or project unchecked influence in Iran's immediate maritime environment.

Gold poised for volatile week as West Asia crisis roils markets

Gold poised for volatile week as West Asia crisis roils markets

Rediff.com8 Mar 2026

Gold prices are expected to remain volatile next week as investors track geopolitical developments in the Middle East and key macroeconomic data releases that could shape the sentiment in the domestic market, analysts said.

Amid uncertainty over US-Iran talks, India says...

Amid uncertainty over US-Iran talks, India says...

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addresses the Indian Ocean Conference, expressing deep concern over the West Asia conflict and its economic repercussions on energy, trade, and food security. India calls for a swift return to peace and opposes targeting civilians and infrastructure.

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Rediff.com13 May 2026

US President Donald Trump received a red carpet welcome in Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on trade, the Iran war, and other key issues. The visit underscores the importance both nations place on their relationship amid ongoing tensions.

Trump orders US Navy to shoot and kill mine-laying boats in Hormuz

Trump orders US Navy to shoot and kill mine-laying boats in Hormuz

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that he has directed the country's Navy to take decisive action against any vessels attempting to lay mines in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tension over the virtual control of the waterway between Tehran and Washington.

Iran gives fresh proposal as Trump 'still not satisfied'

Iran gives fresh proposal as Trump 'still not satisfied'

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Iran has presented a multi-layered proposal to the US in an attempt to break the deadlock in peace talks, focusing on de-escalation and nuclear programme discussions.

Oil Shock Triggers Rs 1.1 Trillion FPI Exits

Oil Shock Triggers Rs 1.1 Trillion FPI Exits

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

'FPIs are unlikely to return unless there is equilibrium between valuation premium and earnings growth.'

No date yet for next round of US-Iran talks, says Pakistan

No date yet for next round of US-Iran talks, says Pakistan

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Pakistan is playing a key role in facilitating talks between the US and Iran, but the future of these negotiations remains uncertain. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, no dates have been set for a second round of discussions.

Iran naval commander leading closure of Hormuz killed, claims Israel

Iran naval commander leading closure of Hormuz killed, claims Israel

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced a series of military operations against US and Israeli targets in retaliation for earlier airstrikes. The IRGC claims to have launched multiple missile and drone strikes, and has warned against any potential ground operations within Iranian territory.

Enemies Beware! India's Missile Power Gets A Boost

Enemies Beware! India's Missile Power Gets A Boost

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Three milestones in three days signal India's growing mastery in next-generation strategic technologies spanning nuclear deterrence, hypersonic propulsion and precision stand-off strike capability.

Why Tim Cook Is 'Over The Moon Excited' About India

Why Tim Cook Is 'Over The Moon Excited' About India

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Apple CEO Tim Cook expresses strong optimism about the Indian market, citing its potential for growth and the company's recent successes in the region.

Three killed, two hurt in US-Israeli air strike on Iran's Black Mountain

Three killed, two hurt in US-Israeli air strike on Iran's Black Mountain

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

An air strike conducted by US and Israeli forces on the Black Mountain has resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, Al Jazeera reported, citing Iranian state media.

West Asia crisis: Stocks suffer worst week in years, echoing Covid chaos

West Asia crisis: Stocks suffer worst week in years, echoing Covid chaos

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Benchmark indices tumbled about 2 per cent on Friday, capping one of the most turbulent weeks for domestic equities as investors fretted that the West Asian conflict could drag on for weeks or even months.

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Modi speaks to France, Oman, Malaysia leaders amid Gulf energy hub strikes

Rediff.com19 Mar 2026

Amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, India strongly condemns the recent attacks on energy infrastructure, warning of further destabilisation to the already uncertain global energy market.

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Iran rejects US ceasefire proposal, presents 10-point plan to end war

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

Iran on Monday formally rejected a US-proposed ceasefire deal amid the escalating conflict in West Asia, instead unveiling its own 10-point plan aimed at permanently ending the ongoing war, as reported by the Iranian state news agency Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Beijing has been wary of Sanae Takaichi's efforts to boost Japan's military profile since taking office six months ago, points out Dr Rajaram Panda.

India Relaxes Import Duties on Key Petrochemicals to Stabilise Supply Chains

India Relaxes Import Duties on Key Petrochemicals to Stabilise Supply Chains

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

The Indian government has waived customs duty on critical petrochemical products until June 30 to ensure supply stability and provide relief to consumers amid disruptions caused by the crisis in West Asia.

Volkswagen bets big on India, targets 5% market share

Volkswagen bets big on India, targets 5% market share

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

koda Auto Volkswagen India aims to capture a 5 per cent share of India's passenger vehicle market by 2030, driven by new product launches, including alternate fuel vehicles, and a potential entry into the high-volume sub-4 metre SUV segment.

2 Indian LPG tankers sail through Hormuz, 16 still stranded

2 Indian LPG tankers sail through Hormuz, 16 still stranded

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

An Indian-flagged LPG vessel successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, reducing the number of Indian ships stranded in the Persian Gulf. India is in talks with Iran to ensure safe passage for its tankers, and Indian refiners continue to purchase crude oil and LPG from Iran despite regional tensions.

Gold and Silver Prices Soar as West Asia Conflict Intensifies

Gold and Silver Prices Soar as West Asia Conflict Intensifies

Rediff.com2 Mar 2026

Precious metal prices, particularly gold and silver, experienced a significant surge in the national capital as investors sought safe-haven assets amid escalating hostilities in the Middle East.

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Parliament adjourns sine die, Budget Session ends

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die, concluding a Budget session marked by the passage of key legislations and the defeat of a Constitution amendment bill on women's reservation. The session saw frequent opposition protests and discussions on various issues, including the West Asia conflict.

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Second-round effects of supply shocks a real concern, says RBI governor

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Sanjay Malhotra stated that preventing second-round effects of supply shocks, where inflation expectations rise due to prolonged disruptions, is the primary role of monetary policy. He also defended the RBI's foreign exchange market interventions, asserting it did not commit to an 'indefensible peg'.

Wipro's $1 bn Olam deal, Mindsprint acquisition marks major strategic win

Wipro's $1 bn Olam deal, Mindsprint acquisition marks major strategic win

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Wipro, India's fourth-largest IT services company, has secured an eight-year deal with Singapore-based Olam group, valued at over $1 billion, and will also acquire Olam's IT and digital services arm, Mindsprint, for $375 million, marking one of its largest contracts to date.

'Impact of the spike in energy prices will be transient'

'Impact of the spike in energy prices will be transient'

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

'As re-industrialisation gathers pace across regions like Asia, Europe and the US, a wide range of products and inputs will see demand.'

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

US releases video of Marines boarding Iranian vessel

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

US Central Command (CENTCOM) released footage of a maritime operation where Marines boarded an Iranian-flagged vessel, the Touska, in the Gulf of Oman, leading to heightened tensions and threats of retaliation from Iran.

US missile-destroyer intercepts Iranian tanker amid Hormuz tensions

US missile-destroyer intercepts Iranian tanker amid Hormuz tensions

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The American warship stopped the tanker "after it attempted to sail to an Iranian port," according to a statement released by CENTCOM.

India's Smaller Cities Pop Corks: Champagne Demand Spreads Beyond Metros

India's Smaller Cities Pop Corks: Champagne Demand Spreads Beyond Metros

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Champagne consumption in India is expanding beyond major metropolitan areas into smaller cities like Kanpur, Guwahati, and Lucknow, driven by a desire for sophisticated lifestyle declarations and a growing appreciation for the beverage.

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Pak pushes for talks even as Iran, Israel reject peace moves

Rediff.com25 Mar 2026

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in West Asia, offering to host talks between the US and Iran and engaging with regional leaders to promote peace and stability.

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Pressure builds on developers to hike prices as costs rise

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Indian realty developers are contemplating price increases for ongoing and upcoming projects to offset margin pressures caused by rising input costs and supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by the West Asia conflict. Input and labour costs have surged by 5-12%, directly impacting developer margins, especially for under-construction projects.

Bajaj Auto gears up for festival season with new Pulsar models

Bajaj Auto gears up for festival season with new Pulsar models

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Bajaj Auto is set to launch new Pulsar motorcycles in the 125cc and 150-250cc segments in Q2 FY27, aiming to capitalise on the upcoming festival season surge. This move follows strong growth in the 150cc-plus segment, where refreshed Pulsar models already account for over 50 per cent of Bajaj's sales.