India

India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods company, Hindustan Unilever Ltd, has announced plans to invest Rs. 2,000 crore to expand and modernize its manufacturing capacity across the country. The investment underscores the company’s confidence in India’s consumption-driven growth story and its intent to strengthen supply-chain resilience. By enhancing production capabilities, HUL aims to support rising demand, improve operational efficiency and accelerate the rollout of new products.

Samsung Electronics has announced that it will unveil its next-generation flagship smartphones, the Galaxy S26 series, on February 25, reinforcing its aggressive push in the premium mobile segment. The launch is expected to showcase advancements in artificial intelligence, camera technology, and on-device performance as competition intensifies at the top end of the global smartphone market. With consumers increasingly prioritizing innovation-driven upgrades, Samsung’s upcoming release is being closely watched by industry analysts, rivals, and investors.

Zydus Lifesciences has reached a $120 million settlement with Japan-based Astellas Pharma, bringing an end to a protracted patent litigation between the two pharmaceutical companies. The agreement resolves claims related to intellectual property rights over a key drug product and removes a significant legal overhang for both parties. The settlement provides clarity on commercialization pathways while averting prolonged courtroom proceedings. Industry analysts view the resolution as strategically prudent, enabling Zydus to recalibrate its pipeline priorities and capital allocation.

Shares of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries climbed sharply after the company posted a strong earnings performance, signaling improving fundamentals and renewed investor confidence. The results reflected healthy revenue growth, firmer margins, and effective cost control, even as the global pharmaceutical industry grapples with pricing pressure and regulatory oversight. Investors responded positively to signs of operational stability and a favorable product mix, viewing the earnings as confirmation of the company’s strategic direction.

ESAF Small Finance Bank has taken a significant step toward strengthening its digital lending capabilities by partnering with Newgen Software to upgrade its loan processing systems. The initiative is aimed at improving operational efficiency, enhancing customer experience, and supporting scalable growth across retail and MSME lending segments. By adopting advanced workflow automation and data-driven credit processes, the bank seeks to reduce turnaround times while maintaining strong risk controls.

India’s consumer electronics (CE) sector recorded a 9% decline in sales during April–December FY26, reflecting subdued consumer demand and rising inflationary pressures. Key segments, including TVs, home appliances, and audio devices, were impacted by shifting spending patterns, supply chain challenges, and cautious buyer sentiment. Industry analysts attribute the slowdown to a combination of high-interest rates, discretionary spending constraints, and softening rural demand, despite continued growth in online retail channels.