Category: business

Nasscom Engages Stakeholders as US Proposes Major H-1B Fee Increase

New Delhi, Aug 25: India’s technology industry is closely monitoring a proposed sharp increase in the cost of US H-1B visa applications, with industry body Nasscom saying it is engaging with key stakeholders on the issue.

The proposed US regulation would introduce an additional $103,265 fee for employers filing cap-subject H-1B petitions, on top of existing fees. The proposal has been issued by the US Department of Homeland Security and is open for public comments for 30 days.

Nasscom said the H-1B programme was originally designed to help US employers address temporary shortages of specialised skills. The organisation said the programme should be considered in the context of the changing employment landscape, particularly as Indian technology companies have expanded their hiring within the US.

According to Nasscom, the number of H-1B employees working for Indian technology companies in the US has declined significantly over the past five years as companies have increased local recruitment.

The industry body also highlighted the contribution of Indian technology companies to the US skills and education ecosystem. It said the sector has invested more than $1.1 billion in strengthening STEM education and skills development, working with more than 130 US universities and colleges. These initiatives have reached around 2.9 million students and supported the upskilling of more than 255,000 employees.

Under the proposed US rules, the additional fee would apply to cap-subject H-1B petitions, including applications covered by the advanced-degree exemption. Employers would be required to pay the amount when submitting the petition, in addition to other applicable government charges.

The US Department of Homeland Security estimates that the proposed fee could generate approximately $8.8 billion annually, based on an estimated 85,000 cap-subject petitions each year. The government has said the funds would help cover costs associated with immigration processing, fraud prevention, security screening, technology upgrades and record management.

The H-1B programme currently provides 65,000 regular visa slots each year, along with an additional 20,000 places for foreign nationals holding a qualifying master’s degree or higher from a US institution.

For Indian technology companies and professionals, the proposed fee increase could raise the cost of deploying specialised talent to the US. However, the longer-term impact will depend on the final form of the regulation, the outcome of the public consultation process and how employers adjust their hiring and workforce strategies.

Nasscom’s continued engagement with policymakers and other stakeholders is expected to remain important as the US considers the proposed changes.

NSE Stocks: Genesys International Leads Gainers as Metal Stocks Shine

New Delhi, August 25, 2026: Stock-specific buying remained in focus at the National Stock Exchange (NSE) on Tuesday, with several companies witnessing sharp gains during the trading session. The top-performing stocks included both broader-market counters and heavyweight constituents of the NIFTY 50 index.

Among NSE-listed stocks, Genesys International Corporation emerged as one of the strongest performers, gaining around 19.99%. Chandrima Mercantile followed closely with a rise of approximately 19.90%, while Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore (FACT) advanced nearly 14.93%.

Thrive Future Habitats was another notable gainer, with its stock rising around 14.38% during the session. The sharp movements highlight the wide dispersion in performance across the broader NSE market, where smaller and mid-sized stocks can register significantly larger intraday moves than benchmark constituents.

Within the NIFTY 50, buying interest was comparatively measured but metals remained prominent among the gainers. JSW Steel rose around 2.57%, making it the strongest performer among the large-cap stocks listed in the provided set. Hindalco Industries gained approximately 2.37%, while Tata Steel advanced around 1.80%.

HCL Technologies also remained in positive territory, gaining nearly 1.50%. The performance of JSW Steel, Hindalco and Tata Steel points to continued investor interest in the metal segment, although the broader market picture remained dependent on intraday developments.

The contrast between the broader NSE gainers and NIFTY 50 performers is significant. While selected smaller stocks recorded gains approaching 20%, the leading benchmark constituents moved within a more moderate range. Such differences are typical of equity markets, where liquidity, company-specific developments, trading volumes and investor positioning can produce substantially different price movements.

NSE maintains dedicated market-watch sections for top gainers and losers, allowing investors to track securities experiencing significant price changes during the session.

For investors, however, a sharp rise in a stock does not necessarily indicate a sustainable trend. Top-gainer lists primarily highlight price momentum, and stocks showing unusually large intraday gains can also experience heightened volatility or profit-taking. Market participants generally assess the move alongside trading volume, corporate announcements, earnings, valuations and broader sector trends before drawing conclusions.

The latest market action also follows a cautious start to the week. Indian equity benchmarks ended Monday lower, with the Sensex and Nifty declining by around 0.2%, while Tata Steel and HCL Technologies were among the notable gainers during that session.

Overall, Tuesday’s stock movement underscores the divergence between high-beta broader-market counters and established NIFTY 50 companies. Genesys International, Chandrima Mercantile, FACT and Thrive Future Habitats dominated the broader gainers’ list, while JSW Steel, Hindalco Industries, Tata Steel and HCL Technologies led gains among the major benchmark stocks.

The figures cited are intraday indications and may change during the trading session. This report is for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice.

Luxiora Cosmetics Nude Edit Lipsticks Makes For A Perfect Raksha Bandhan Gift

This Raksha Bandhan, make Luxiora Cosmetics’ new Nude Edit Luxe Liquid Lipsticks, a part of your sister’s beauty ritual. With nude lips reigning as the colour of the season, the collection makes for a chic and thoughtful gift — offering effortless colour that transitions seamlessly from everyday minimalism to evening glam.

Perfect for the sister who loves understated beauty with a polished finish, these liquid mattes offer one-swipe colour payoff, a featherlight feel and up to 12 hours of wear. Enriched with Vitamin E, Olive Oil, Castor Oil, Rosemary, Candelilla and SPF 15, the formula delivers a comfortable, non-drying matte that stays put through long days and meals.

Available in five versatile shades — Gulabi Glow, Crush Tone, Bare Vibe, Chai Date and Masala Mood — the collection is designed to complement Indian skin tones and suit everyday wear. Choose the shade that feels most like her, or give her the complete edit. Bringing together high-performance beauty and affordable luxury, these nudes are an effortless addition to any Raksha Bandhan gifting edit.

Available at: https://www.luxioracosmetics.com/collections/nude-velvet-matte-liquid-lipstick

Crude Oil Futures Gain as Firm Demand and Fresh Buying Support Domestic Market

New Delhi, Aug 25: Crude oil prices edged higher in domestic futures trading on Tuesday, supported by firm spot demand and increased buying interest from market participants.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

On the Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), crude oil futures for September delivery rose Rs 8, or 0.1 per cent, to Rs 8,143 per barrel, with 2,524 lots traded.

The rise reflected stronger participation in the futures market, with traders increasing their positions amid steady demand. The firm domestic trend came despite relatively muted movements in international crude benchmarks.

In global trade, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was quoted at $84.96 per barrel, while Brent crude stood at $92.04 per barrel. Both benchmarks were marginally lower during the session.

The domestic crude market continued to show resilience as steady spot demand and fresh positions provided support to prices. Traders are expected to closely track international crude movements, global demand conditions and geopolitical developments for further cues.

The positive movement in domestic futures indicates continued market interest in crude oil, even as global benchmarks remain largely range-bound.

MAMONDE Introduces Its Peony BHA and Rose HA Collection, Bringing Flower-Powered Authentic Korean Skincare Innovation to India

New Delhi, Aug 25: MAMONDE, the Korean skincare brand renowned for transforming the power of flowers into skincare innovation, today announced the launch of its  Peony BHA and Rose HA collections in India. Part of the Amorepacific Group, one of South Korea’s leading beauty companies, MAMONDE brings over three decades of floral research and its proprietary Hyper-Flora™ technology to Indian consumers seeking effective, science-backed skincare solutions.

The launch comes at a time when Indian consumers are increasingly embracing Korean beauty rituals and prioritizing skincare routines focused on hydration, radiance, and long-term skin health. Rooted in the belief that beauty is personal and ever-evolving, MAMONDE combines nature-inspired ingredients with advanced skincare science to create products that support diverse skin needs while encouraging consumers to embrace their individual skincare journeys.

Built on the brand’s philosophy of “Let Your Skin Bloom,” MAMONDE introduces two of its most iconic collections in India  the Peony BHA and the Rose HA Collection  each inspired by the unique benefits of flowers and thoughtfully developed to address distinct skincare concerns.

The Rose Collection, powered by Damask Rose and enriched with Rose Peptide and Rose Water, is designed to deeply hydrate, soothe, and revitalize the skin. Featuring products including the Rose Liquid Mask, Serum, Cream, Toner, and Sunscreen, the collection helps replenish moisture, improve skin texture, and enhance natural radiance for a healthy, dewy complexion.

The Peony Collection is formulated to address everyday skin concerns often associated with urban lifestyles, environmental stressors, and changing climates. Featuring products such as the Peony BHA Serum, Spot Gel, Foam Cleanser,  Pads, and Sunscreen, the collection helps manage excess oil, refine skin texture, and improve overall skin clarity while promoting a brighter, more balanced complexion.

“India is one of the most dynamic beauty markets globally, with consumers increasingly seeking innovative, ingredient-led skincare solutions that deliver visible results. We are excited to introduce MAMONDE‘s flower–powered skincare expertise to India and offer consumers thoughtfully developed products that bring together the best of nature and science,” said  Mini Sood Banerjee, Marketing Director, Amorepacific India.

Drawing on over 30 years of dedicated floral research, MAMONDE‘s proprietary Hyper-Flora™ technology captures the unique benefits of flowers and transforms them into effective skincare solutions. By combining botanical expertise with advanced formulations, the brand continues to create products that help support healthy-looking, radiant skin.

The MAMONDE Peony and Rose collections are now available exclusively on Nykaa.

With its arrival in India, MAMONDE aims to make high-quality Korean skincare more accessible to a broader audience, empowering consumers to discover personalized skincare routines that help their skin thrive and bloom every day

D-Street Faces Cautious Start as Global Uncertainty Keeps Investors on Edge

Mumbai, Aug 25: Indian equity markets are likely to begin Tuesday’s trading session on a cautious note, with weak GIFT Nifty signals, mixed global markets and continuing geopolitical tensions keeping investors on the sidelines.

 Pic Credit: Pexel

Domestic equities ended mixed on Monday, with the Nifty 50 slipping around 0.1 per cent, as investors remained watchful in the absence of strong domestic triggers. The market is now looking for fresh cues from global developments, crude oil prices, currency movements and foreign investor activity.

The immediate concern for Dalal Street is the broader global risk environment. Geopolitical tensions remain elevated, particularly amid developments involving the United States and Iran. Any further escalation could affect crude oil prices and add pressure to economies such as India that depend heavily on imported energy.

The US Treasury’s move to expand its long-term bond buyback programme has also remained in focus. The decision has influenced global bond markets and currency movements, with investors assessing whether the measure can provide lasting stability to US Treasury yields.

For Indian investors, higher global yields and uncertainty in international markets can influence foreign capital flows and valuations. At the same time, a weaker US dollar and strength in precious metals have added another layer to the global market picture.

Market participants are also keeping a close watch on crude oil, which has remained elevated amid geopolitical concerns. Higher oil prices could increase India’s import costs and put pressure on inflation, the rupee and corporate margins.

The domestic market may therefore remain range-bound and volatile during the session. Investors are expected to focus on individual stocks and sectors where company-specific developments could provide trading opportunities despite the lack of broad market triggers.

The Nifty’s 24,000 level is likely to remain an important psychological area for investors, while movements in crude oil, the rupee, US bond yields and global equity markets could determine the direction of the session.

With global uncertainty still high, traders are likely to remain selective and cautious rather than make aggressive bets. The overall market mood is expected to be shaped by a combination of geopolitical developments, global financial conditions and foreign fund flows.

RBI Dollar-Rupee Swap Draws Dollar 73 Billion in 11 Weeks, Boosts India’s Forex Position

New Delhi, Aug 25: The Reserve Bank of India’s special dollar-rupee swap facility has attracted $73 billion in foreign exchange inflows in just 11 weeks, giving a significant boost to India’s external financial position and highlighting strong confidence among non-resident Indians and overseas investors.

Launched on June 8, the facility was introduced to encourage foreign currency inflows through FCNR(B) deposits, Overseas Foreign Currency Borrowings and eligible External Commercial Borrowings.

According to the Finance Ministry, total foreign exchange mobilisation reached $73 billion as of August 21, with $65.40 billion coming through FCNR(B) deposits. The strong response from NRIs has emerged as a major feature of the scheme.

The latest mobilisation has also surpassed the scale of India’s previous FCNR(B) swap programme in 2013, which raised around $26 billion over approximately three months.

The strong response has prompted the RBI to bring forward the closure of the FCNR(B) swap window. The facility, which was originally scheduled to remain open until September 30, will now close on August 31, 2026.

The scheme has encouraged banks to step up efforts to attract foreign currency deposits from NRIs, including through competitive interest rates and wider outreach.

The inflows are expected to strengthen India’s foreign exchange position and provide an additional buffer against volatility in global financial markets. The mobilisation also comes at a time when policymakers are closely monitoring movements in the rupee and global capital flows.

The Finance Ministry said the response demonstrates continued confidence in India’s banking system and economy, with the Indian diaspora playing an important role in channeling foreign currency into the country’s financial system.

The RBI’s initiative is expected to support India’s external-sector stability while providing banks with access to additional foreign currency resources.

Iconic American Outdoor Brand Eddie Bauer Enters the Indian Market, Bringing 100 Years of Outdoor Innovation

Aug 25:  Iconic American outdoor brand, Eddie Bauer today announced its entry into the Indian market, through its partnership with Outdoor Goats, bringing a century of innovation rooted in solving real-world challenges. Early in the brand’s history founder Eddie Bauer set out to create better protection against the elements after a winter fishing trip in the Pacific Northwest. Inspired by the insulating properties of down, he went on to develop and patent the first quilted down jacket in the U.S. That breakthrough helped establish a legacy of purposeful innovation that has shaped Eddie Bauer for more than 100 years. Today, the brand brings that legacy to India.

Founded in Seattle in 1920, Eddie Bauer went on to equip the first American expedition to successfully summit K2 in 1953 and has since grown into a globally recognized outdoor lifestyle brand with a presence across 41 countries. India marks the latest chapter in that global journey.

Eddie Bauer arrives in India with a century of craftsmanship and one clear intent: clothing that keeps up with Indian life in all its forms. From city commutes, weekend road trips to rainy days and mountain trails, the collection moves between all of it without missing a beat.

The timing is deliberate. India’s athleisure category is growing at 35% year-on-year. Per capita apparel spending is projected to hit ₹8,000 by 2026. And the mid-premium segment ₹3,500 to ₹7,000 is the fastest-growing price tier in the market. Indians aren’t just buying more clothes. They’re buying better ones, and they want those clothes to work everywhere.

The India launch is anchored by Eddie Set Go, the brand‘s debut campaign, a rallying call for everyone who’s been putting off the trip, the skill class, the weekend away, the adventure they keep saying they’ll get to. The message is simple: you’ve been ready. Now go.

“Eddie Bauer has always been at its best when innovation serves a real purpose,” said David Brooks, EVP, Action and Outdoor Sports, Authentic Brands Group, owner of Eddie Bauer. “As we continue to grow the brand globally, India represents an important opportunity to extend Eddie Bauer into a dynamic new market, bringing together its outdoor heritage, technical performance and everyday functionality in a way that feels relevant across the region.”

Launching with the launch collection, Eddie Bauer introduces outdoor lifestyle clothing for men and women, cargo pants, travel vests, convertibles, polos and everyday tees built with UPF 50 sun protection, active cooling and four-way stretch. Gear that performs without looking like it’s trying to. 

Designed for 25 to 40-year-olds across India’s metros and emerging cities who refuse to maintain separate wardrobes for work, weekends, and the outdoors, Eddie Bauer is being introduced to India by Wild Country Pvt. Ltd., the brand‘s exclusive licensee for the market. Over the past few years, Wild Country has introduced more than 30 home-grown outdoor lifestyle brands to Indian consumers through Outdoor Goats, a marketplace built on one principle: every product is rigorously tested by experts before it reaches the customer.

“Eddie Bauer has spent more than a century designing for how people move through the world, and that philosophy translates naturally to India,” said Henry Stupp, President, EMEA-India, Authentic Brands Group. “Consumers are increasingly looking for clothing that delivers performance without being limited to one setting or occasion. Eddie Bauer brings that versatility together with a level of outdoor credibility and heritage that is truly distinctive, creating a strong foundation for the brand’s long-term growth in India.”

The launch collection is now available at www.eddiebauer.in and Myntra, with expansion across other leading platforms planned before the end of the year. Offline retail through standalone stores and shop-in-shop formats is planned for 2027. 

Sumsub Powers Investor Verification for Caliber’s PURE Pickleball & Padel Tokenized Real Estate Offering

Sumsub brings reusable, on-chain identity to Caliber’s PURE Pickleball & Padel offering, supporting compliant investor participation in tokenized real estate

Scottsdale, Arizona – Aug 25–Sumsub, the first AI-powered trust infrastructure for compliance at scale, today announced that its identity verification and compliance technology is powering investor onboarding for PURE Pickleball & Padel, the first real estate investment on Caliber’s (Nasdaq: CWD) platform to be tokenized. Sumsub joins Chainlink as one of the technology partners powering the initiative.

As of today, investors in PURE Pickleball & Padel can choose to receive a tokenized digital ownership certificate (the “Token”) or continue using a printed certificate. Before a Token is issued, Sumsub conducts know-your-customer (KYC), sanctions screening, and anti-money-laundering checks. It then publishes a programmable, on-chain accredited investor credential (CCID) within Chainlink’s Automated Compliance Engine (ACE), enabling transfer controls built around each investor’s verified profile. The same credential is reusable across future tokenized offerings, so an investor verifies once rather than repeating the process for every deal.

The integration marks another step in Sumsub’s broader push to extend reusable, on-chain identity beyond crypto-native assets and into regulated real-world asset (RWA) markets. It builds on Sumsub ID, part of Sumsub’s Reusable Digital Identity suite, which lets a user verify once and reuse that verified profile across multiple use cases.

“We are pleased to bring Sumsub’s identity verification services as part of together with other top-tier partners for this tokenization effort, including Chainlink with its Automated Compliance Engine (ACE),” said Chris Loeffler, Chief Executive Officer of Caliber.”Tokenizing PURE Pickleball & Padel gives us a practical first use case where we can connect the technology to a real asset, a real investor experience and a real operating business. We are not changing what investors own. We are applying better technology to make private real estate ownership more transparent, more efficient and ultimately more functional.”

Sumsub has already turned the verified Sumsub ID profile into a portable, on-chain credential through integrations with the Solana Attestation Service and Linea’s Verax Attestation Service. The PURE Pickleball & Padel offering extends the same model into tokenized private real estate, providing one of the first practical examples of reusable identity connecting a regulated real-world asset with infrastructure originally built for DeFi.

“Tokenization of regulated assets works only if the people holding the tokens are who they say they are, and that verification needs to travel with them,” said Ilya Brovin, Chief Growth Officer at Sumsub. “We’ve already seen reusable, on-chain identity change how people move across crypto and Web3 platforms. That’s what makes this more than a digital certificate. We are powering an investor identity that can travel with someone across other tokenized RWA opportunities, not just this one.”

The offering comes as U.S. lawmakers continue to work toward the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act (the CLARITY Act), which would establish clearer federal direction for digital asset markets. Sumsub’s platform is built to operate across evolving regulatory frameworks in more than 220 countries and territories, supporting the kind of institutional, compliance-first tokenization Caliber and its partners are building toward.