India Business

Quick-commerce firm Zepto has withdrawn its “10-minute delivery” branding following a government advisory that raised concerns over consumer safety and delivery workforce welfare. The move signals a strategic recalibration rather than a retreat from fast commerce, as the company seeks to align growth ambitions with regulatory expectations. Industry observers say the decision reflects increasing scrutiny of hyper-fast delivery promises and their operational implications.

Radico Khaitan posted a remarkable 63% jump in net profit for the third quarter, reaching Rs. 155 crore, driven by robust demand across its premium and mainstream liquor portfolio. Revenue growth was fueled by increased off-take in key domestic markets and strategic expansion of brand visibility. Analysts attribute the strong performance to operational efficiencies, cost control measures, and sustained consumer preference for high-margin products.

A major textiles fair scheduled in the coming weeks is expected to attract participation from more than 235 companies, highlighting the scale and resilience of the textile and apparel industry. The event will bring together manufacturers, exporters, suppliers, and service providers under one roof, offering a snapshot of evolving market dynamics. At a time when global supply chains are being recalibrated and domestic production is gaining strategic importance, the fair is positioned as a vital commercial and networking platform.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has unveiled a draft framework aimed at strengthening the governance, transparency, and reliability of significant market indices. The proposal seeks to bring greater accountability to index providers, particularly those whose benchmarks are widely used for mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and derivatives. By introducing clearer eligibility norms, enhanced disclosure requirements, and stricter oversight mechanisms, the regulator aims to reduce conflicts of interest and safeguard investor confidence.

UCO Bank delivered a resilient performance in the December quarter, reporting a 16% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rs. 739 crore. The improvement was driven by stable core income, continued moderation in credit costs and sustained progress in asset quality. The public-sector lender benefited from prudent lending practices and disciplined expense control, enabling it to navigate a competitive and rate-sensitive banking environment. While revenue growth remained measured, the reduction in stress-related provisions supported profitability.

India’s chemical sector is on track to expand to USD 300 billion by 2030, driven by strong domestic demand, export opportunities, and a gradual shift in global supply chains. The projection reflects rising consumption across pharmaceuticals, agriculture, construction, and consumer goods, alongside increased investments in specialty and value-added chemicals. Policy support, improving infrastructure, and growing emphasis on sustainability are further strengthening the industry’s growth outlook.

Tata Motors has reported double-digit sales growth in 2026, propelled primarily by robust demand for its SUV portfolio. The company’s strategic focus on SUVs, including both compact and premium models, has resonated with urban and semi-urban buyers seeking performance, style, and safety features. Positive consumer sentiment, backed by competitive financing and expanding dealership networks, further supported the momentum. Analysts note that Tata Motors’ SUV-led strategy not only enhances revenue but also strengthens brand positioning in India’s fast-growing utility vehicle segment.

Tata Steel reported a robust operational performance in the third quarter, with crude steel production rising 8 percent and deliveries increasing 7.56 percent year on year. The growth reflects steady demand across key end-use sectors and improved operational efficiency across the company’s domestic and international facilities. Higher volumes underscore Tata Steel’s ability to navigate a challenging global steel environment while maintaining supply discipline and cost control.

Hindustan Labs has taken a significant step toward entering the capital markets by submitting its draft red herring prospectus to the Securities and Exchange Board of India. The proposed initial public offering marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth strategy, aimed at strengthening its balance sheet, funding expansion and enhancing brand visibility. The move comes amid steady investor interest in healthcare and diagnostic services, a sector driven by rising healthcare awareness and increased testing demand.

Bank of Maharashtra reported a robust 20% year-on-year increase in its loan book during the third quarter, reflecting sustained credit demand across retail, agriculture and small business segments. The performance underscores the lender’s improving market position, supported by disciplined underwriting, expanding branch outreach and growing customer confidence. Management attributed the growth to a calibrated lending strategy that balances expansion with asset quality.