Gold price prediction today: Gold prices are expected to fluctuate due to various global factors. Easing safe-haven demand and geopolitical developments impacted the metal, despite support from dovish US rate expectations. Investors are awaiting US PMI data, Fed Chair Powell’s speech, and updates from the Jackson Hole symposium for policy signals.
Ahead of Prime Minister Modi’s China visit, Beijing is reportedly delaying approvals for India-China partnership agreements, especially those involving technology transfers. Deals like Haier India’s stake sale and PG Electroplast’s compressor technology transfer are facing scrutiny. This caution extends to the automotive sector, particularly EV technology sharing, impacting Indian companies’ expansion plans.
Prime Minister Modi’s GST restructuring announcement, expected by Diwali, has energized Dalal Street, potentially benefiting over 40 stocks. Automotive, financial, real estate, consumer, and cement sectors saw gains as investors anticipate simplified tax rates. Analysts project household savings and increased consumption, though the government’s revenue management remains crucial.
Stock market recommendations:Motilal Oswal Financial Services recommends HDFC Life and Hindustan Aeronautics as top stock picks for the week starting August 18, 2025. HDFC Life’s strong Q1 performance, driven by APE and VNB growth, positions it favorably. Hindustan Aeronautics boasts a robust order book and margin expansion, with Tejas deliveries being a key growth catalyst.
Qantas Airways faced a penalty of $59 million for unfairly firing over 1,800 ground staff during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is in addition to the $78 million compensation already agreed upon. The court found the airline guilty of serious labor law breaches. Qantas CEO Vanessa Hudson apologized for the hardship caused.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two significant highway projects in Delhi-NCR, totaling nearly Rs 11,000 crore. These projects include the Delhi section of the Dwarka Expressway and the Alipur–Dichaon Kalan stretch of Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II).
Economists believe that the government’s proposed GST rationalisation will bolster domestic consumption, providing crucial support to the Indian economy amidst global headwinds like US tariffs. The reforms, benefiting MSMEs and consumers, aim to simplify the tax structure and boost disposable income. Reduced rates on essentials and consumer durables are expected to stimulate demand and offset
The rollout of E20 fuel in India has sparked concerns among vehicle owners regarding fuel efficiency and performance. Many report mileage drops and engine issues, particularly in non-E20-compliant vehicles. While the government touts economic and environmental benefits, experts emphasize the need for greater consumer awareness and OEM education to mitigate negative impacts.
Sebi witnessed a surge in settlement applications, receiving 703 in 2024-25, a notable increase from the previous year. The regulator settled 284 cases, collecting significant settlement charges and disgorgement amounts related to various securities law violations. Simultaneously, difficult-to-recover dues rose to Rs 77,800 crore, even as Sebi actively addressed appeals before the Securities Appellate Tribunal.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the circulation of the draft for next-generation GST reforms among states, urging their cooperation for implementation before Diwali. These reforms aim to simplify the GST law and revise tax rates, benefiting the poor, middle class, and businesses. Modi emphasized the government’s continuous focus on reforms to ease the lives of
