News for 'asia'

No cash, crypto payments to Iran for Hormuz passage: India

No cash, crypto payments to Iran for Hormuz passage: India

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

India has denied making any payments to Iran to secure safe passage for its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, following reports that Indian vessels were fired upon in the region.

Bank credit grows at 16.08% in FY26, deposits rose by 13.47%, fastest since FY24

Bank credit grows at 16.08% in FY26, deposits rose by 13.47%, fastest since FY24

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Indian bank credit expanded by 16.08 per cent year-on-year in FY26, marking its fastest pace since FY24, while deposits grew by 13.47 per cent, according to RBI data. Experts caution that year-end figures may be inflated due to reporting date changes, but acknowledge strong momentum in corporate, MSME, and retail segments.

France, UK to take lead in Hormuz navigation mission: Macron

France, UK to take lead in Hormuz navigation mission: Macron

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday announced that France and the United Kingdom will jointly lead a multinational initiative to restore free and secure navigation in the Strait of Hormuz amid uncertainty over the virtual control of the strategic waterway between the US and Iran.

21-hour US-Iran talks fail, ceasefire hangs in balance

21-hour US-Iran talks fail, ceasefire hangs in balance

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Direct talks between the US and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, have failed to produce an agreement after 21 hours of negotiations, with disagreements over Iran's nuclear ambitions and sanctions proving insurmountable.

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Iran refuses to send delegation for peace talks in Pakistan

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Iran has denied sending a delegation to Islamabad for peace talks with the United States, contradicting Pakistan's claims of mediating the negotiations. The denial highlights a lack of confidence in Pakistan's ability to ensure security for high-level participants and underscores the fragile nature of diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran.

India Targets 2027 for Formula 1 Grand Prix Comeback

India Targets 2027 for Formula 1 Grand Prix Comeback

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is advocating for a Formula 1 race in India by 2027, with potential interest from multiple companies to operate the Buddh International Circuit.

Ready to restart war, awaiting US approval: Israel

Ready to restart war, awaiting US approval: Israel

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz has stated that Israel is prepared to escalate military action against Iran, pending approval from the United States. This comes as US President Donald Trump says he would not use nuclear weapons in any conflict with Iran, while also claiming the US has 'total control' over the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump declares 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire for 'lasting peace'

Trump declares 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire for 'lasting peace'

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump on Thursday announced that Israel and Lebanon have reached an agreement to initiate a 10-day ceasefire, following intensified diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities in the region.

One Indian oil tanker crosses Hormuz, four others turn back

One Indian oil tanker crosses Hormuz, four others turn back

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

One Indian oil tanker successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, while others turned back after Iran signalled the waterway's closure, amidst rising tensions and disruptions to global energy flows.

RIL Q4: O2C Slump, Retail Drag to Cap Performance, Jio to See Steady Gains

RIL Q4: O2C Slump, Retail Drag to Cap Performance, Jio to See Steady Gains

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

Reliance Industries is expected to report largely flat performance for its fourth quarter (January-March, Q4) of FY26, with weakness in the oil-to-chemicals (O2C) business and muted retail growth likely to offset steady gains in the telecommunications segment.

S&P: India to maintain robust 6.3% growth even with $130/barrel crude

S&P: India to maintain robust 6.3% growth even with $130/barrel crude

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

S&P Global Ratings projects India's economy to grow at 6.3 per cent even if crude oil prices average USD 130 per barrel in the current fiscal year, highlighting the nation's resilience amidst the West Asia crisis and strong commitment to fiscal consolidation.

'Influence Of The US Is Diminishing'

'Influence Of The US Is Diminishing'

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

'It was diminishing even before Trump came to power.' 'The US was at the centre of the global economy. That position is going to become less and less important and less central.'

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Trump dials Modi, talks focus on keeping Strait of Hormuz open

Rediff.com24 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump discussed the Middle East crisis, with a focus on the Strait of Hormuz.

Stock Market Today March 30, 2026: Sensex tanks 1,636 points, Nifty50 Fall To 22,331

Stock Market Today March 30, 2026: Sensex tanks 1,636 points, Nifty50 Fall To 22,331

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Indian equities on Dalal Street saw volatility as global market trends and fresh tariff concerns linked to Donald Trump impacted investor sentiment. Track Sensex, Nifty50 movement and key market drivers for March 30, 2026.

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

No plans for further peace talks with US, says Iran

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

The Iranian Foreign Ministry has stated that Tehran currently has no plans for a subsequent round of negotiations with the United States, according to the state media Tasnim news agency. This announcement comes as international mediators had hoped for a follow-up to the Islamabad talks before the looming ceasefire deadline.

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.

How Punjab Schools Plan To Integrate AI Into Education

How Punjab Schools Plan To Integrate AI Into Education

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Punjab School Education Board announces integration of Artificial Intelligence as a core component of the school curriculum, with learning outcomes reflected on student certificates.

Geopolitical tensions, corporate results to steer markets

Geopolitical tensions, corporate results to steer markets

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Indian stock markets are set to be influenced by ongoing developments in the US-Iran conflict, fluctuations in crude oil prices, and the latest quarterly earnings reports from major corporates, with foreign investor activity also playing a crucial role.

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Indian Navy ships escorting tankers through Strait of Hormuz: Rajnath

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh assures India's energy security amidst West Asia tensions, highlighting naval protection of tankers and readiness to counter cross-border terrorism.

Russian crude oil imports soar to 9-month high in March

Russian crude oil imports soar to 9-month high in March

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

Indian companies, however, are now paying a premium of $6-$7 a barrel for Russian oil, compared with discounts of $8-$10 a barrel before the start of the conflict.

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Hard Lessons For India

Pahalgam Terror Attack: Hard Lessons For India

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

We, Indians, forgot that for Pakistan, Kashmir dispute and blood feud with India is the raison detre for its existence. It is also the excuse with which the Pak army keeps its grip over the state. Peace in Kashmir and between India and Pakistan is against the interests of the Pak army, points out Colonel Anil A Athale (Retd).

'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.

Billie Jean King Cup: Vaishnavi Adkar loses opening singles against Thailand's Chanta

Billie Jean King Cup: Vaishnavi Adkar loses opening singles against Thailand's Chanta

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Vaishnavi Adkar's unforced errors resulted in a straight-set defeat against Aunchisa Chanta, leaving India trailing 0-1 against Thailand in their Billie Jean King Cup Asia/Oceania Group I tie.

South Korea dump India out of Billie Jean King Cup play-off race

South Korea dump India out of Billie Jean King Cup play-off race

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Ankita Raina's defeat to Dayeon Back resulted in India's elimination from the Billie Jean King Cup Play-offs race. Despite a spirited effort from Raina, India could not secure the crucial win needed to advance.

Cong questions 'Vishwaguru's huglomacy' as Pak holds US-Iran talks

Cong questions 'Vishwaguru's huglomacy' as Pak holds US-Iran talks

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Congress party has criticised the Indian government's diplomatic efforts, questioning how Pakistan was able to secure a role as a mediator between the US and Iran despite India's attempts to isolate it after the Pahalgam attack. The party also raised concerns about India's standing on the global stage and its relationship with the US and China.

Crude at $130 could unsettle growth outlook: S&P Global

Crude at $130 could unsettle growth outlook: S&P Global

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

S&P Global Ratings warns that a sustained rise in crude oil prices to $130 per barrel could significantly slow India's economic growth, weaken fiscal metrics, and strain corporate and banking sector performance, potentially reducing growth by up to 80 basis points.

RBI maintains repo rate at 5.25% as global recovery hopes rise post-ceasefire

RBI maintains repo rate at 5.25% as global recovery hopes rise post-ceasefire

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has opted to keep its key interest rates unchanged at 5.25%, anticipating a global economic recovery following a ceasefire in the US/Israel-Iran conflict, despite ongoing inflationary pressures and currency fluctuations.

Crude Oil Hits Record High as US-Iran Tensions Escalate

Crude Oil Hits Record High as US-Iran Tensions Escalate

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Crude oil prices have surged to record highs due to escalating tensions between the US and Iran, raising concerns about supply disruptions and market volatility.

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.

Stock Markets Rally: Sensex Climbs 500 Pts Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Stock Markets Rally: Sensex Climbs 500 Pts Amid Easing Geopolitical Tensions

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Indian benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty rallied nearly 1 per cent, driven by optimism over easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and fresh foreign fund inflows, with the Sensex gaining over 500 points.

PM Modi to Assess Energy Security Amid Middle East Unrest

PM Modi to Assess Energy Security Amid Middle East Unrest

Rediff.com22 Mar 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a meeting with senior ministers to assess the petroleum, power, and fertiliser sectors in light of the ongoing situation in West Asia, focusing on ensuring uninterrupted supply and stable logistics.

Open the fu*** Strait, you crazy b***ds: Trump to Iran

Open the fu*** Strait, you crazy b***ds: Trump to Iran

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

In a post on Truth Social, Trump used unusually harsh language to convey his message, reminding Tehran of his deadline to 'make a deal' or 'open the Strait'.

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.

Infosys Q4 Net Profit Surges 21% to Rs 8,501 Crore, Projects 1.5-3.5% Revenue Growth for FY27

Infosys Q4 Net Profit Surges 21% to Rs 8,501 Crore, Projects 1.5-3.5% Revenue Growth for FY27

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

Infosys reported a 20.8 per cent increase in consolidated net profit to 8,501 crore for the January-March quarter of FY26, with revenue from operations rising 13.4 per cent to 46,402 crore. The IT major has guided for a 1.5 to 3.5 per cent revenue growth for FY27, driven by momentum in financial services, utilities, and emerging AI services, despite a volatile macroeconomic environment and geopolitical risks.

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Iran Ceasefire Hours From Collapse

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Trump has made it clear: the US will not lift its blockade of Iranian ports until a deal is signed.

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Why Did India Not Stop The War?

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

India is one of the few nations, and perhaps the only nation, that has good relations with America, Israel and Iran. Knowing that a war in the Gulf would damage our economy, hurt supply of fertilisers and fuel, and cause general chaos, we should have tried to ensure this war did not begin, asserts Aakar Patel.

US to end Russia, Iran oil waiver; India to feel heat

US to end Russia, Iran oil waiver; India to feel heat

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The United States has announced it will not renew sanctions exemptions for the purchase of Russian and Iranian oil, ending a 30-day waiver that allowed some countries, including India, to continue importing Russian oil despite sanctions related to the Ukraine war.

Bhutan's Huge Crypto Gamble, India And China Watching

Bhutan's Huge Crypto Gamble, India And China Watching

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Is Bhutan merely experimenting with digital finance -- or is the Himalayan kingdom punching far above its weight, quietly playing one of the most sophisticated strategic games in Asia today? asks Varun Arya.

Why mixed-use developments are the future of Indian real estate

Why mixed-use developments are the future of Indian real estate

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Mixed-use real estate projects, integrating residential, commercial, retail, and hospitality segments, are gaining significant traction in India as developers seek to maximise returns, optimise land use, and diversify cash flows, with experts predicting 35-40% of urban real estate supply will be mixed-use by 2030.

LPG Cylinders Stolen in Mumbai, Police Investigate

LPG Cylinders Stolen in Mumbai, Police Investigate

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Mumbai police are investigating the theft of 27 LPG cylinders from a delivery vehicle in Charkop, Kandivali (West), amid concerns about gas supply due to the conflict in West Asia.