CONSUMER CONFIDENCE

Samsung launches slimmest smartphone as races against rival Apple
Analysts said the launch was strategically timed to pre-empt Apple, which is expected to launch a thinner iPhone in the second half of this year. The S25 Edge will go on sale in South Korea on May 23 and in the United States on May 30, Samsung said, adding it will roll it out to about 30 countries, including China and in Europe.

Investors cheer US-China tariff truce, but cautious over a final deal
The U.S. and China have agreed to a temporary tariff reduction, boosting global stocks and the dollar. This 90-day pause offers relief but caution remains as a permanent trade deal is still needed. Investors are now shifting focus to potential U.S. tax cuts and their impact on debt levels amid lingering economic uncertainty.

Funding, regulations, consumer trust key hurdles for Indian startups: Rukam Capital founder
Indian startups face funding gaps, regulatory hurdles, and talent retention challenges, says Rukam Capital’s Archana Jahagirdar. Despite rapid growth, especially in Tier 2–3 cities, stronger fundamentals, tech-driven scalability, diverse funding sources, and supportive policies are crucial to thrive. Building for Bharat demands relevance, context, and long-term vision.

U.S. stock market futures today: Dow soars over 900 points, S&P 500 and Nasdaq rally as trade truce fuels optimism — Nvidia, Tesla, and Microsoft in focus, but should investors stay cautious?
U.S. stock market futures today: Dow futures surge as Wall Street reacts to positive signs from the weekend’s U.S.-China trade talks. Investors cheered the progress after both nations hinted at a deal to ease trade tensions. With stock futures rising and the dollar gaining strength, markets are hopeful for more clarity this week. Key updates from the White House and China suggest further talks are coming, calming fears of more tariffs. As oil climbs and gold dips, traders brace for inflation data ahead.

Indian Influencer Governing Council introduces Code of Standards to guide digital consumers
The Indian Influencer Governing Council (IIGC) has launched a Code of Standards for consumers to promote ethical engagement and informed decision-making in influencer marketing. This code addresses recognizing paid promotions, identifying manipulation tactics, understanding AI influencers, and avoiding scams. The IIGC plans awareness workshops to equip users with tools to identify red flags, fostering a safer, more transparent digital ecosystem.

Commodity Radar: Gold prices fall by Rs 2,400/10 gram amid “total reset” in US-China trade relations. Time to buy on dips?
Gold prices on MCX fell over Rs 2,400 per 10g amid easing US-China trade tensions and a temporary India-Pak ceasefire. Analysts point to weakening momentum, with technical indicators suggesting a near-term pullback. While global fundamentals remain supportive, softening tariffs and stronger economic data could cap gains. Traders are advised to adopt a buy-on-dips strategy above Rs 93,000.
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Srigee DLM shares list at 90% premium on BSE SME platform
Srigee DLM, specializing in plastic injection molding, is set to debut on the BSE SME platform following a highly successful IPO that was oversubscribed by 400 times. The IPO, priced at ?94-?99, saw strong grey market premium, suggesting a positive listing. The company intends to use the IPO proceeds to establish a new manufacturing facility and acquire machinery.
FMCG sector set for recovery in H1FY26; Consumer durables show long-term strength: Report
ShriRam Mutual Fund reports a positive outlook for India's FMCG sector. Demand is likely to rebound in early FY26. Rural markets and easing inflation will support this growth. Consumer durables also show promise, especially premium cooling products. Raw material costs may challenge profit margins. Equity markets face volatility due to global trade concerns.
Dollar gains versus yen on US-China trade optimism; Kiwi climbs
The dollar's value increased in early Asian trading. This happened after discussions between the United States and China reduced worries about a trade conflict. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer reached a deal with China to lower the U.S. trade deficit. India and Pakistan also agreed to a ceasefire.
US inflation starting to stir as Trump tariff threat looms
US consumer prices are expected to have increased in April, with economists anticipating a more pronounced impact from higher tariffs over time. This has led to growing consumer apprehension about inflation and the economy. Meanwhile, companies are navigating the challenge of mitigating tariff costs through price hikes while trying to avoid deterring consumers.
As US, China begin trade talks in Geneva, Trump's tariff hammer looks less mighty than he claims
Amidst a tense trade war, the U.S. and China are set to engage in preliminary talks in Geneva, though prospects for a swift resolution remain uncertain. Despite Trump's confidence in tariffs, China has retaliated, showing a willingness to withstand economic pressure.
Disney to build a magic kingdom theme park in Abu Dhabi
Disney plans to open a new theme park in Abu Dhabi, its first in the Middle East, slated for the early 2030s. Miral, an Abu Dhabi-based firm, will develop the park, with Disney leading the design. The park will be located on Yas Island, featuring advanced technology and a unique crystal-like castle, aiming to attract visitors from the surrounding region.
The pound’s resurgence: A story of restraint, resilience & renewed confidence
After a decade of economic challenges, the UK is showing signs of recovery in early 2025. Factors like resilient GDP growth, robust wage increases, and shifting trade dynamics are supporting a stronger pound. Despite uneven private sector activity and government borrowing, the UK's stability and credibility are attracting investors, fostering optimism for sustained growth.
China says it has full confidence in ability to manage US trade issues
Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Hua Chunying expressed confidence in China's ability to manage U.S. trade issues ahead of crucial talks in Switzerland. Hua asserted that the U.S. trade policy is unsustainable, emphasizing the impact of tariffs on ordinary Americans. Despite not wanting conflict, China is prepared to face challenges and believes the U.S. will eventually return to a normal approach.
JetBlue or Delta: Surveyors choose the best airlines in USA for travel in 2025
JD Power has conducted a survey of more than 10,000 people, who travelled on a North American airline within a month of taking the questionnaire. The survey was conducted between March 2024 to March 2025, and has been done for First/Business Class, Premium Economy, as well as the Economy/Basic Economy class to determine the best airlines.
US Federal Reserve likely to hold rates steady as pressures mount
The Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates unchanged, citing high uncertainty due to trade policies. Despite concerns over tariffs, recent data shows stable inflation and employment. Markets anticipate future rate cuts. Fed Chair Powell may face questions on trade, inflation, and President Trump’s criticisms during the press conference.
Disney earnings beat expectations as streaming, parks, and sports drive growth in Q2
Walt Disney Co. delivered stronger-than-expected Q2 results, fueled by Disney+ subscriber gains, a robust parks segment, and higher ESPN revenue. With revenue growth across all core business units, Disney raised its fiscal 2025 guidance, signaling confidence in long-term performance. Shares rose 6 percent in premarket trading following the upbeat earnings
Are Tesla, Nissan and Mercedes-Benz's exploiting Trump tariff fears to manipulate customers? Check details
Several companies are alerting customers about possible price hikes due to tariffs. Tesla and Nissan are among those urging consumers to buy now. French brand Sezane also cautioned its U.S. customers. Retailers are using this strategy to boost sales amid low consumer confidence. Some companies pass tariff costs directly. Donald Trump criticized Amazon for planning to display tariff-related price increases.
Alibaba, RedNote in tie-up as China ecommerce competition intensifies
The broadening of the strategic partnership between Alibaba and RedNote comes as China's ecommerce giants vie for market share on multiple fronts amid weakened consumer confidence, leading to near-constant incentives to attract shoppers and contributing to broader deflationary pressures.
Services activity picks pace in April on strong output, exports
India's services sector experienced a slight growth in April, with the HSBC India Services PMI increasing to 58.7. New business volumes rose sharply, and international demand saw its fastest expansion since July 2024. Despite this growth, business sentiment weakened to its lowest level since mid-2023 due to increasing competition.
China's services growth hits 7-month low as tariffs bite, Caixin PMI shows
China's services sector experienced its slowest expansion in seven months in April, as the Caixin PMI fell to 50.7, impacted by U.S. tariffs and subdued business sentiment. New business growth weakened, leading to job cuts and price reductions by service providers. Policymakers are urged to take action to mitigate the effects of the ongoing trade standoff.
US Fed expected to pause cuts again and wait for clarity on tariffs
The US Federal Reserve is anticipated to maintain its pause on interest rate cuts, closely monitoring the economic impact of President Trump's tariff policies. Economists are wary of potential inflationary pressures and slower growth due to these tariffs, which could prolong the Fed's cautious approach.
Donald Trump's blunt 8-word message to Fed Chair Jerome Powell after jobs shocker: 'Lower rates or else'
Donald Trump has again pressured Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. This followed the release of positive US jobs growth data. Trump believes the Fed should lower interest rates. Strong jobs numbers have fueled speculation about potential Fed rate cuts. However, the Fed paused cuts in 2025 due to inflation risks. Consumer confidence has dropped significantly this year.
April GST defies headwinds to post record-shattering mop-up
India's GST collections reached a record ?2.37 lakh crore in April, a 12.6% year-on-year increase, driven by strong domestic consumption and improved compliance. Net GST receipts also hit a new high of ?2.09 lakh crore, up 9.1% from the previous year.
GM delays investor call, UPS axes 20,000 jobs as Trump's tariffs create corporate chaos
Global firms are reeling from the impact of trade tensions, with approximately 40 companies withdrawing or reducing their financial outlooks during the first quarter earnings season. UPS plans to cut 20,000 jobs, citing significant trade impacts, while GM and Volvo Cars have abandoned their annual guidance.
April gloom: Americans brace for economic storm as confidence plunges to 2020 lows, with job market fears echoing Great Recession woes
US consumer confidence has hit its lowest point in five years, sparking fears about the economy as tariffs and rising prices weigh heavily on Americans. The latest data from The Conference Board shows consumer confidence fell to 86 in April, a steep drop blamed on President Trump's new tariffs on imports and goods from China. Worries about a potential recession, job slowdown, and reduced spending are growing fast. With fewer people planning big purchases or vacations, the economy may be slowing down more than expected. Dive into the full story to understand what this means for your wallet and future.
RBI launches 3 key surveys for monetary policy input
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated three crucial surveys, including one on inflation expectations, to inform monetary policy decisions. These surveys, encompassing urban and rural consumer confidence, aim to gather insights into household sentiments regarding the economy, employment, prices, income, and spending. The findings will provide valuable inputs for the RBI's upcoming Monetary Policy Committee meetings.
US consumer confidence plunges to lowest in 5 years on tariff worries
American economy faces challenges. Consumer confidence declined for the fifth month. It reached its lowest point since May 2020. Tariffs impacted consumer expectations. Many anticipate price increases. Recession worries are growing among Americans. Economic growth data for the first three months will be released. A slowdown is expected due to reduced consumer spending.
Trump trade war spreads more gloom across businesses
Businesses are grappling with the fallout from President Trump's trade war, as tariffs disrupt supply chains and increase costs. PepsiCo and Thermo Fisher have lowered their financial outlooks, while Nestle and Unilever express concerns about weakening consumer confidence in the U.S. Hyundai Motor is shifting some production to the U.S.
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