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  • India Unveils Rs 1.27 Lakh Crore Semicon 2.0 Program to Build Global Chip Ecosystem

    The Union Cabinet has approved Semicon 2.0, a massive Rs 1.27 lakh crore program aimed at transforming India into a global hub for semiconductor design and production. This marks the country’s largest investment yet in chip manufacturing.

    Unlike the initial phase of the India Semiconductor Mission, which focused primarily on fabrication and packaging, Semicon 2.0 expands support across the entire value chain. The program is built around six pillars: chip design, semiconductor equipment and materials, fabrication plants, packaging and testing, research and development, and talent creation.

    It also introduces incentives for companies producing critical inputs such as specialty chemicals, gases, and manufacturing equipment. The government expects international firms to manufacture chips in India while boosting domestic capabilities amid surging demand from artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, smartphones, electronics, telecommunications, and defense sectors.

    This initiative follows the successes of Semicon 1.0, which secured several chip manufacturing and packaging projects in India. Industry experts believe Semicon 2.0 will ensure supply chain resilience, create skilled jobs, and attract increased investments. As global competition for reliable chip supplies intensifies, the program anchors India’s long-term ambition to become a dominant force in the semiconductor industry.

  • India Eyes Stricter Crypto Rules as RBI Pushes for Banking Restrictions on Digital Assets

    India Eyes Stricter Crypto Rules as RBI Pushes for Banking Restrictions on Digital Assets

    India’s cryptocurrency policy debate has entered a new phase after newly disclosed government documents showed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) continues to support restrictions on digital assets instead of broader regulation. Reuters reported that the central bank wants regulated financial institutions blocked from holding, trading, or gaining exposure to cryptocurrencies and privately issued stablecoins.

    Meanwhile, tax authorities warned that offshore trading platforms complicate tax enforcement and reduce compliance. The documents also revealed that policymakers have not reached a unified position on the country’s long-delayed crypto framework. As digital asset ownership grows across India, regulators continue weighing financial stability, tax enforcement, and market oversight.

    RBI Maintains Restrictive Position on Digital Assets

    According to the documents reviewed by Reuters, the RBI believes cryptocurrencies and privately issued stablecoins pose risks to financial stability, monetary sovereignty, and wider financial markets. As a result, the central bank favors preventing banks and other regulated financial institutions from holding digital assets or offering direct exposure to them.

    Meanwhile, India continues without dedicated cryptocurrency legislation despite years of policy discussions. Digital assets remain legal to own and trade after the Supreme Court overturned an earlier banking restriction in 2020.

    Besides, the latest documents indicate that regulators have become increasingly concerned as cryptocurrency adoption continues to expand across the country. Reported estimates showed that nearly 39 million Indians held about $2.1 billion in digital assets at the end of May, placing India among the world’s largest retail cryptocurrency markets.

    Global Policies Move in a Different Direction

    India’s latest policy discussions contrast with regulatory developments in several major financial markets. For example, Japan continues expanding its regulated stablecoin ecosystem through new blockchain financial services and retail payment initiatives instead of limiting digital asset integration.

    Similarly, the European Commission is preparing revisions to its Markets in Crypto-Assets framework to support tokenization and emerging blockchain applications. Likewise, lawmakers in the United States continue negotiating the CLARITY Act, which seeks to establish a comprehensive federal market structure for digital assets rather than relying mainly on enforcement actions.

    Consequently, many leading economies now focus on refining cryptocurrency regulation instead of excluding digital assets from regulated financial systems.

    Tax Compliance Concerns Add to Policy Debate

    Besides financial stability concerns, India’s tax authorities also identified significant compliance challenges involving cryptocurrency transactions. According to the documents, fewer than one-quarter of roughly 645,000 individuals who traded cryptocurrencies during the financial year ending March 2023 reported those activities on income tax returns.

    Officials reportedly found that offshore exchanges, private wallets, and peer-to-peer transactions make it harder to identify beneficial owners and calculate taxable gains. India currently imposes a 30% tax on cryptocurrency profits alongside a 1% tax deducted at source on many digital asset transactions.

    Meanwhile, the documents also revealed differing views within government institutions. Previous discussions reportedly showed the Finance Ministry favored limited regulatory clarity supported by existing tax laws, while the RBI consistently supported keeping cryptocurrencies outside the regulated financial system.

    Although the documents do not signal an official government decision to prohibit cryptocurrencies, they show that India’s principal financial authorities continue debating how to balance innovation, consumer protection, monetary stability, and effective tax enforcement while lawmakers consider future legislation.

    What’s Next?

    India’s cryptocurrency policy remains unsettled as the Reserve Bank of India advocates tighter banking restrictions while tax authorities raise compliance concerns. Meanwhile, policymakers continue weighing financial stability against regulatory clarity, leaving the country’s future crypto framework under active discussion.

  • Android Productivity Boost: Essential Apps and Hidden Feature Guide

    Android Productivity Boost: Essential Apps and Hidden Feature Guide

    Introduction

    Hidden apps on Android are not always malicious. Many users hide apps for privacy, while manufacturers offer features like Secure Folder or Private Space. However, hidden apps can also indicate unwanted software. Knowing how to locate them helps improve device security, manage storage, and ensure you have complete control over everything installed on your smartphone.

    Search the App Drawer

    Start by opening your phone’s app drawer. Use the search bar to look for the app by name. Then check the menu or Home Screen Settings for options like “Hidden Apps” or “Hide Apps.” Many Android launchers, including Samsung, OnePlus, and Xiaomi, provide built-in tools to hide or reveal applications.

    Check Installed Apps

    Visit Settings > Apps > See All Apps to view every installed application. This list usually includes apps hidden from the launcher. Review unfamiliar apps, recently installed software, and disabled applications. Sorting by installation date or usage can help identify suspicious or forgotten apps occupying storage and system resources.

    Explore Private Spaces

    Modern Android devices offer secure storage for apps. Samsung includes Secure Folder, Google Pixel offers Private Space, while brands like OnePlus and Xiaomi provide Hidden Space or Second Space. These features require authentication, allowing users to keep sensitive apps separate from the main app drawer for enhanced privacy.

    Use Google Play Store

    Open the Google Play Store, tap your profile, and select Manage Apps & Device. Under the Installed section, you’ll find all apps currently linked to your device. This method helps verify whether an app is installed even if it doesn’t appear on the home screen or app drawer.

    Look for Suspicious Apps

    Watch for apps with generic names, blank icons, excessive permissions, or unusually high battery and data usage. Also, review Device Administrator apps in your security settings. These indicators may reveal hidden spyware or unwanted software that deserves further investigation or removal to protect your privacy.

    Final Tips

    Regularly review installed apps, update Android, and uninstall software you no longer need. If you suspect malware, restart in Safe Mode or scan your device with a trusted security app. By routinely checking hidden and installed apps, you can maintain better security, performance, and privacy on your Android smartphone.

  • Today’s Tech Roundup: Tata’s Semiconductor Strategy, NVIDIA Robotics, Bybit in Indonesia, and Cognizant Hiring

    Today’s Tech Roundup: Tata’s Semiconductor Strategy, NVIDIA Robotics, Bybit in Indonesia, and Cognizant Hiring

    Welcome to today’s tech roundup! From chips and AI to crypto, climate tech, and hiring, here’s a quick look at the stories shaping the technology world today.

    Tata Group Resorts to Older Tech to Launch Its Chip Foray

    Tata Group’s entry into the field of semiconductors takes an efficient course whereby the company begins its venture from older and tested technologies of chips rather than advanced technology. This ensures cost efficiency, quicker production, and helps meet demands in fields such as the automotive industry, power, and industrial electronics.

    Climate Tech Venture Funding Surges Driven by AI Infrastructure Demand

    There has been renewed interest in climate technology, driven by the accelerated development of AI infrastructure. With the increased usage of energy by data centers, venture capital firms are funding startups that specialize in renewable energy, batteries, smart power grids, and energy efficiency.

    Bybit Launches in Indonesia After NOBI Acquisition

    Bybit crypto exchange has now officially made its entry into Indonesia after taking over local exchange platform NOBI. This marks the extension of their operations in Southeast Asia and gives the firm the ability to provide regulated crypto trading services to customers.

    NVIDIA Partners with Japanese Robotics Firms to Accelerate AI Development

    With the collaboration between NVIDIA and Japanese robotics firms, there is an effort to make progress in developing AI automation. By using its computing technology together with Japan’s robotics expertise, it hopes to produce industrial robots that are better than current ones.

    Cognizant to Hire 1,500 US Graduates by End of 2026

    As part of efforts to build its artificial intelligence team, Cognizant is set to recruit 1,500 graduates in the US by 2026. These new employees will be trained in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital engineering, and other new technologies.

  • Bitcoin Dips Below $63,500 as Hyperliquid Plunges Ahead of Key CLARITY Act Hearing

    Bitcoin Dips Below $63,500 as Hyperliquid Plunges Ahead of Key CLARITY Act Hearing

    Bitcoin slipped below $63,500 on Friday as a broader risk-off sentiment weighed on digital assets. The largest cryptocurrency traded near $63,437, down 1.72% in the past 24 hours, while Hyperliquid led losses with a sharp decline of over 9%. Traders are now focused on today’s CLARITY Act hearing before the House Financial Services Committee, which could shape digital asset regulation.

    Bitcoin Price Today

    Bitcoin is currently trading at $63,437.09, according to CoinMarketCap data. The $63,000 level remains key support, with a break below exposing $60,000. Resistance is seen at $65,000 to $67,000.

    Analyst Insights

    Akshat Siddhant, Lead Quant Analyst at Mudrex: Bitcoin pulled back from a three-week high, with on-chain data showing realized losses among long-term holders may have peaked. Spot Bitcoin ETFs logged nearly $290 million in net inflows over two sessions.

    Vikram Subburaj, CEO of Giottus: Bitcoin near $63,500, down 1.9%. Rising oil prices and US-Iran tensions outweighed softer inflation data. A $424.7 million ETF outflow on July 13 was followed by modest inflows.

    CoinSwitch Markets Desk: BTC remains range-bound as loss realization among one-to-two-year holders cools. Resistance near $67,000, with geopolitical uncertainty capping risk appetite.

    Nischal Shetty, founder of WazirX: Bitcoin near $63,352, with the Fear and Greed Index at 36. Immediate resistance at $64,500-$64,800, support near $62,800.

    Riya Sehgal, Research Analyst at Delta Exchange: Bitcoin’s rejection from $65,200-$65,500 signals weakening momentum. Next support at $61,800-$62,300 if $63,000 fails.

    Top 10 Coins at a Glance

    • Biggest Losers: Hyperliquid (HYPE) -9.53%, Ethereum (ETH) -3.59%, Dogecoin (DOGE) -2.1%
    • Relative Outperformers: USDC (stable), USDT (flat), TRON (TRX) -0.5%

    Key Market Drivers

    CLARITY Act Hearing

    The House Financial Services Committee meets today to discuss the Digital Asset Market CLARITY Act, which would classify Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP as commodities. Passage could remove regulatory overhang.

    Hyperliquid Decline

    Hyperliquid dropped over 9% amid profit-taking after a strong seven-day rally, with rising oil prices adding pressure.

    Bitcoin ETF Flows

    US spot Bitcoin ETFs recorded $107.8 million in net inflows on July 15, following a sharp $424.66 million outflow on July 13. BlackRock’s IBIT accounted for 75% of inflows.

    Whale Activity

    A dormant Bitcoin whale moved 5,908 BTC to a new wallet, not an exchange, signaling accumulation rather than selling intent.

    Oil Prices & Geopolitical Risk

    Brent crude climbed toward $85, reviving inflation concerns and weighing on risk assets. The Nasdaq and semiconductor stocks fell sharply, with crypto mirroring the risk-off tone.

    Investor Outlook

    Bitcoin holds near $63,437. A close above $65,000 could target $67,000, while a slip below $63,000 risks $60,000. Ethereum trades near $1,848, structurally constructive above $1,790 with resistance at $1,940. The CLARITY Act hearing is the key catalyst.

  • Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes for July 17, 2026 – Unlock Exclusive Skins and Bundles

    Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes for July 17, 2026 – Unlock Exclusive Skins and Bundles

    Looking to upgrade your Free Fire MAX experience without spending real money? The latest set of redeem codes for July 17, 2026, is now live, offering players a chance to unlock premium skins, weapon bundles, and diamonds. These codes are time-sensitive and limited to the first 1,000 redemptions per code, so act fast.

    Active Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes – July 17

    Below is the complete list of active codes for today. Each code can be redeemed only once per account, and guest accounts are not eligible.

    • P3LX6V9TM2QH
    • FFWCTKX2P5NQ
    • RD3TZK7WME65
    • ZRW3J4N8VX56
    • TFX9J3Z2RP64
    • E9QH6K4LNP7V
    • S5PL7M2LRV8K
    • Q8M4K7L2VR9J
    • FFPLUFBVSLOT
    • MCPW3D28VZD6
    • ZZZ76NT3PDSH
    • V427K98RUCHZ
    • J3ZKQ57Z2P2P
    • BR43FMAPYEZZ
    • UPQ7X5NMJ64V
    • S9QK2L6VP3MR
    • FFR4G3HM5YJN
    • 6KWMFJVMQQYG
    • WD2ATK3ZEA55
    • TX4SC2VUNPKF
    • FP9O1I5U3Y2T
    • FM6N1B8V3C4X
    • FA3S7D5F1G9H
    • FK3J9H5G1F7D
    • FU1I5O3P7A9S
    • F7F9A3B2K6G8
    • FE2R8T6Y4U1I
    • FF8HG3JK5L0P
    • RHTG9VOLTDWP
    • N7QK5L3MRP9J
    • J2QP8M1KVL6V
    • FZ5X1C7V9B2N
    • FT4E9Y5U1I3O
    • FF7TRD2SQA9F
    • FF2VC3DENRF5
    • FF6YH3BFD7VT
    • B1RK7C5ZL8YT
    • 4ST1ZTBZBRP9
    • FFRSX4CYHLLQ
    • FFSKTXVQF2NR

    How to Redeem Free Fire MAX Codes

    Follow these simple steps to claim your rewards:

    1. Visit the official Garena Free Fire Rewards Redemption website.
    2. Log in using your Gmail, Facebook, X (Twitter), or VK ID.
    3. Copy and paste the code into the designated box exactly as shown.
    4. Click the Confirm button, then press OK.
    5. Rewards will be credited to your in-game mailbox within 24 hours. Diamonds and currencies are updated instantly.

    Important Points to Remember

    • Codes are region-specific; a code valid for India may not work on other servers.
    • Each code can be used only once per account. Guest accounts cannot redeem.
    • Codes are time-sensitive and typically expire within 24 hours or after 1,000 redemptions.
    • Enter codes exactly as provided – case-sensitive and no extra spaces.

    How to Get Diamonds in Free Fire MAX

    Diamonds are a premium currency, but you can earn them for free by:

    • Redeeming active codes.
    • Completing daily challenges and missions.
    • Participating in in-game events that reward diamonds.
    • Purchasing them from the in-game shop with real money.

    Grinding missions consistently is the best way to accumulate diamonds without spending. Focus on daily tasks and event-based rewards to build your stash.

    Final Thoughts

    The redeem code system has been a key driver of Free Fire MAX’s popularity, giving players a legitimate way to earn premium items by staying active. Bookmark this page and check back daily for the latest codes to stay ahead in the battle royale.

  • Top 6 Telegram Hacks to Boost Privacy and Productivity

    Top 6 Telegram Hacks to Boost Privacy and Productivity

    Boost Your Telegram Experience with These Simple Hacks

    Telegram is one of the most popular messaging apps, but many users don’t tap into its full potential. Here are six easy hacks every Telegram user should know, from organizing chats to protecting your privacy.

    1. Use Saved Messages as Your Personal Notebook

    Treat the Saved Messages chat as your digital filing cabinet. Store important documents, links, photos, voice notes, and reminders—all synced across devices. This eliminates the need for third-party note apps or cloud storage for quick access.

    2. Organize with Chat Folders

    Reduce clutter by creating custom Chat Folders for work, family, friends, and channels. This keeps conversations separate, improves productivity, and helps you instantly find what matters most—especially if you manage many groups or business conversations daily.

    3. Automate Cleanup with Auto-Delete Messages

    Enable Auto-Delete for specific chats to remove messages after a set period. It boosts privacy, clears history, and saves storage. Perfect for sensitive discussions or temporary chats that don’t need to stay forever.

    4. Hide Your Phone Number

    Enhance privacy by limiting who can see your phone number. Choose from Everyone, My Contacts, or Nobody. Communicate through your Telegram username to stay connected without sharing personal contact info.

    5. Pin Important Chats

    Keep priority conversations at the top of your list by pinning them. Whether family, work, or frequently used groups, pinned chats ensure you never miss critical messages and can respond faster.

    6. Manage Storage

    Go to Telegram’s Storage settings to clear cached media, set auto-cache limits, and handle downloads. Regular cleanups free up space without deleting chats, keeping the app running smoothly.

  • Bitcoin Reclaims $65,000: ETF Inflows, Softer CPI, and Policy Hopes Fuel Recovery

    Bitcoin Reclaims $65,000: ETF Inflows, Softer CPI, and Policy Hopes Fuel Recovery

    Bitcoin briefly reclaimed the $65,000 mark on Wednesday for the first time in roughly a month, before settling at $62,779.89. The recovery came just days after the leading cryptocurrency dipped below $62,000, signaling that buyers remain active despite geopolitical risks and uncertain U.S. monetary policy.

    The rebound also lifted crypto-related stocks, with Circle and Coinbase shares rising at least 2% as investor appetite improved. The shift followed Tuesday’s cooler-than-expected June CPI report, which prompted traders to reassess Federal Reserve policy expectations.

    CPI Relief Sparks Fresh ETF Inflows

    According to SoSoValue, spot Bitcoin ETF flows turned positive on Tuesday after Monday’s heavy outflow of $424.66 million, recording net inflows of roughly $181 million. This could be an early sign of renewed institutional buying. “If the CPI data holds and the Fed signals a credible pivot path, the conditions for sustained ETF inflows are back in place,” said Nicolai Sondergaard, a research analyst at Nansen. He added that he is watching whether the latest flows are “durable rather than one-session repositioning.”

    Technical Resistance Meets Record Leverage

    The $65,000 level is a major resistance zone. Bitcoin fell as Middle East tensions escalated, pushing Brent crude to $84.01, but buyers stepped in below $62,000. On-chain analytics firm Glassnode reported that leveraged traders on the decentralized exchange Hyperliquid have built exposure exceeding any previously recorded levels: “Top traders on Hyperliquid are aggressively long bitcoin, showing some of the highest sustained long positioning we’ve recorded. This exposure exceeds what was seen during the last run to around $83,000, pointing to strong speculative demand at these levels.”

    Policy Developments Support Cautious Optimism

    Fundstrat’s head of digital asset strategy, Sean Farrell, said the odds of the CLARITY Act passing this year “may be better than markets appreciate.” Polymarket traders recently priced a 42% chance of the bill being signed into law in 2026, down from over 70% in May. Bitcoin remains negative for the year after a sharp sell-off in June pushed it below $60,000, but repeated buying below $62,000 suggests sellers may be losing momentum. A strong close above $65,000 could confirm a broader recovery, while rejection at that level may return control to bears ahead of the July Fed meeting.

    FAQs

    1. Why did Bitcoin cross $65,000 again? Bitcoin recovered after softer US CPI data improved risk sentiment. Positive spot Bitcoin ETF inflows and renewed buying below $62,000 also supported the move.
    2. How much inflow did spot Bitcoin ETFs record? According to SoSoValue, spot Bitcoin ETFs saw around $181 million in net inflows, following Monday’s heavy outflow of $424.66 million.
    3. Why is the $65,000 level important for Bitcoin? The $65,000 level is a major resistance zone. A strong close above it could confirm recovery, while rejection may return momentum to sellers.
    4. What did Glassnode say about Bitcoin traders? Glassnode said top traders on Hyperliquid are aggressively long Bitcoin, with some of the highest sustained long positions it has recorded.
    5. Can the CLARITY Act support Bitcoin prices? Yes, policy clarity could improve institutional confidence. Fundstrat’s Sean Farrell said the bill’s odds may be better than markets currently expect.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry significant risk. Always do your own research.

  • Reliance Industries Shares Climb to Rs 1,320 Ahead of Q1 Results; Analysts Predict 20% Profit Surge

    Reliance Industries Shares Climb to Rs 1,320 Ahead of Q1 Results; Analysts Predict 20% Profit Surge

    Reliance Industries Ltd. shares climbed 1.84% to Rs 1,320.40 on the NSE on Friday, reaching an intraday high of Rs 1,323.70, as investors positioned themselves ahead of the conglomerate’s closely watched June-quarter (Q1 FY27) earnings due after market hours. The stock opened at Rs 1,300 and traded in the Rs 1,296.10–Rs 1,323.70 range, reflecting growing optimism that India’s largest listed company could deliver another resilient quarter.

    The optimism spilled over to the broader market, with the Sensex surging more than 800 points and the Nifty 50 reclaiming the 24,280 mark, supported by gains in Reliance, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and leading IT stocks. While global concerns over rising crude prices and tensions in West Asia continue to weigh on sentiment, analysts believe Reliance’s diversified business model could once again help cushion volatility.

    Street Expectations for Reliance Q1 FY27

    Oil-to-Chemicals Expected to Shoulder Earnings Growth

    While there have been mixed fortunes for many companies, analysts forecast Reliance to show another decent quarter. Based on consensus estimates, net profit is expected to increase by about 20% sequentially, while revenue is expected to reach Rs 3 lakh crore. Good refining fundamentals and favorable petrochemical margins will more than compensate for the weak demand in retail operations and the reduced production from the upstream oil and gas segment.

    The oil-to-chemicals (O2C) segment is likely to remain the largest contributor to earnings. Estimates indicate that O2C EBITDA will be close to Rs 16,146 crore, driven by higher refining margins, particularly at the SEZ refinery. While there were maintenance shutdowns of one crude distillation unit during the quarter, the impact was largely mitigated by a weaker rupee and global refining margins.

    Jio Remains the Growth Engine While Retail Faces Headwinds

    Reliance Jio is expected to continue delivering stable operational performance. Brokerages estimate the telecom business will add nearly one crore subscribers during the quarter, taking its total subscriber base to around 53.3 crore. Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) is expected to increase to Rs 216, up from Rs 214 in the previous quarter, driven by customer upgrades and rising data consumption.

    Investors will also watch management commentary on tariff plans, JioFiber expansion and the timeline for the much-anticipated Jio IPO, which could become India’s largest public offering.

    The retail business, however, is likely to remain under pressure. Analysts expect Retail EBITDA to decline around 2% sequentially to Rs 6,784 crore, reflecting slower discretionary spending and continued promotional activity. While margins may remain soft in the near term, analysts remain optimistic about the long-term outlook, citing store expansion, digital commerce growth and improving consumer demand.

    Management Commentary Holds the Real Key

    Beyond the financial performance, institutional investors are expected to focus on Reliance’s forward-looking commentary. Updates on crude sourcing, refinery outlook, petrochemical demand, retail consumption, capital expenditure, debt reduction, new energy investments, and Jio’s IPO preparations could significantly influence market sentiment.

    Reliance has increasingly evolved from being an energy giant into a diversified consumer and technology company. Consequently, investors pay as much attention to future growth initiatives as to quarterly earnings.

    What It Means for Investors

    Reliance enters the first-quarter earnings season with expectations firmly tilted toward another steady performance. Despite continued lags in retail demand and difficulties for upstream activities, the combination of improving refining margins and robust telecom growth is likely to keep profit trends heading in the right direction.

    What is more important, however, is Reliance’s ability to drive growth across its diverse portfolio of operations and make faster strides in developing its digital and renewable energy operations. With such a large representation in key indices, Reliance’s results and management guidance are likely to have implications for market sentiment that will extend far beyond a one-day trading period.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Readers should conduct their own research before making any investment decisions.

  • FTSE 100 Opens Higher as Vodafone Surges 3.57% and Wise Reports 25% Revenue Growth

    FTSE 100 Opens Higher as Vodafone Surges 3.57% and Wise Reports 25% Revenue Growth

    The FTSE 100 opened 37.30 points higher at 10,609.54 on Friday, as continued US strikes on Iran weighed on investor sentiment and a sharp sell-off across Asian markets added to the risk-off mood. Brent crude futures rose 0.44% to $84.60 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) advanced 0.94% to $79.69 a barrel.

    Sterling was quoted at $1.3465 early Friday, lower than $1.3483 at the London equities close on Thursday. Against the euro, sterling fell to €1.1768 from €1.3558 a day earlier.

    Gainers & Losers

    On the upside, Vodafone Group rose 3.57% to £120.40, while British American Tobacco advanced 2.67% to £4,656. Severn Trent gained 2.42% to £3,052, and National Grid climbed 2.34% to £1,245. BT Group added 2.30% to £197.90, and United Utilities Group climbed 2.22% to £1,381.

    On the downside, Lion Finance Group declined 1.66% to £11,280, while Games Workshop Group slipped 0.79% to £20,120. Antofagasta fell 2.48% to £3,499, and Anglo American declined by 2.24% to £3,407. Rio Tinto dropped 1.01% to £6,673, while Spirax Group eased 0.94% to £6,865.

    Burberry Upgrades Revenue Target

    Burberry upgraded its revenue estimates for the first half of the year after demand in the US market helped offset headwinds in Europe. The luxury fashion house reported revenue increased 5% to £455 million in the first quarter. Revenue was up 12% in the US, closely followed by 9% growth in Greater China. Wholesale revenue was upgraded on the back of the first-quarter performance and is expected to grow by a high-single-digit percentage in the first half.

    Wise Revenue Jumps 25%

    Global payments company Wise posted first-quarter net revenue of $714 million, up 25% from last year, with cross-border volume jumping 26% to $69.3 billion. Active customers rose 21% to 11.9 million, while customer holdings grew 31% to $41.2 billion. The average fee dropped to just 0.50%, the lowest in Wise’s history, and 77% of transactions now arrive instantly, up from 70% a year ago. Full-year guidance was reiterated, with revenue growth expected around the middle of its 15%-20% target range and margins near the top of the 20%-25% range.

    Bridgepoint Earnings Surge

    Bridgepoint’s earnings surged after growth in management fees and performance-related earnings. Earnings before tax jumped 77.6% to £227.3 million in the first half of the year, up from £128 million the previous year. This was driven by a 22.8% rise in management fees to £254.4 million and performance-related earnings more than doubling to £120.7 million. Assets under management rose 12.4% to £72.3 billion. The group declared an interim dividend of £4.8 per share.

    Global Market View

    In the US, Wall Street ended lower. The Nasdaq fell 1.5%, while the S&P 500 lost 0.5% and the Dow Jones declined 0.2%. In Asia on Thursday, Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 fell 4.03% to 64,141.14, while China’s Shanghai Composite dipped 3.05%. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng declined 2.15%, and South Korea’s Kospi fell 6.37%. In India, both the Nifty 50 and the Sensex rose by 0.87% and 1.04%, respectively.

    Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always conduct your own research before making any investment decisions.