India’s apparel exports recorded a modest 1.6 percent growth during April–January 2025-26, reflecting resilience in the face of persistent global headwinds and supply chain disruptions. According to industry leadership, shipments to key international markets such as Italy, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Spain posted encouraging gains. Emerging demand from Japan, Iceland, and Australia further supported export momentum.

Nexus Select Trust, a retail-focused real estate investment trust sponsored by Blackstone, has announced the acquisition of a 50 percent stake in an under-construction mall project in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region for Rs. 434 crore. The investment marks a strategic expansion into Dombivli, a fast-growing suburban market within India’s financial capital. The development, to be operated in partnership with Runwal Enterprises, reflects the REIT’s confidence in organized retail growth and consumption-driven real estate.

India’s largest lender, State Bank of India, is sharpening its focus on the startup ecosystem as part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. By investing in young, technology-driven companies, the bank aims to address long-standing gaps in MSME financing, digital adoption, and operational efficiency. The strategy reflects a shift in traditional banking, where collaboration with startups is increasingly viewed as essential to inclusive growth.

India’s capital markets must shift from replication to original innovation, a senior official of Securities and Exchange Board of India said, cautioning that copying global models without contextual adaptation can weaken long-term market resilience. Addressing industry participants, the SEBI executive director emphasized that sustainable growth will come from solutions designed for India’s unique investor base, regulatory framework, and risk profile. The remarks come as financial markets rapidly evolve through technology, fintech platforms, and product innovation.

India’s pharmaceutical export sector is regaining momentum, with industry leaders expressing confidence in achieving double-digit growth in the near term. Strengthening global demand, a shift toward higher-value formulations, and improved supply-chain stability have lifted overseas shipments after a period of moderation. Exporters are increasingly focusing on complex generics, specialty drugs, and regulated markets to drive sustainable value growth rather than relying solely on volumes.

India may soon return to the global motorsport spotlight as Adani Group moves to revive Formula 1 racing in Greater Noida. The proposed initiative aims to restore India’s presence on the elite international racing calendar while unlocking economic and branding opportunities tied to large-scale sporting events. Greater Noida, which previously hosted Formula 1 races, is being positioned as the centerpiece of the revival due to its existing infrastructure and connectivity.

India’s push to build a domestic semiconductor ecosystem gathered momentum as Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated the strategic importance of made-in-India chips. Positioning semiconductors as the foundation of modern economic and technological power, the government has framed self-reliance in chip manufacturing as vital to growth, security, and supply-chain resilience. The renewed focus reflects lessons from global shortages and rising geopolitical competition over critical technologies.

Officers of Indian Overseas Bank launched a coordinated strike, disrupting services across several regions as employee unions protested what they described as coercive and target-driven management practices. The action reflects mounting unease within public sector banks, where staff argue that escalating business targets, constant monitoring, and punitive performance reviews are undermining professional autonomy and ethical banking norms. Officers say the pressure to deliver aggressive growth has intensified without adequate operational support.

An unprecedented show of multilateral alignment unfolded at the AI Impact Summit, where 86 nations signed a joint declaration aimed at shaping the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence. The agreement reflects mounting global concern over AI’s economic, social, and ethical implications as the technology rapidly permeates industries and public life. While the declaration is not legally binding, it establishes a common reference point for transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth.

India’s renewable energy sector is set for a significant market debut as CleanMax launches its initial public offering on Feb. 23. Ahead of the public issue, the company has raised Rs 921 crore from anchor investors, signaling robust institutional confidence. The IPO aims to support CleanMax’s expansion in rooftop solar, open-access renewable projects, and long-term power purchase agreements with corporate clients.