Trade Tensions: Are American Businesses Ready?

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella revealed that 20-30% of the company's code is now generated by artificial intelligence. Speaking with Meta's Mark Zuckerberg, he emphasized how AI is reshaping software development. This shift raises questions about the future of coding jobs, as many wonder if they should focus on coding or learning how to interact with AI. The excitement around AI tools is palpable, with companies exploring transformative ways to utilize this technology. As AI continues to evolve, the tech industry is at a pivotal point, making it crucial for professionals to adapt to these changes.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is changing how ATM charges work, starting May 1. This means that customers can only enjoy a limited number of free ATM transactions each month. In metro areas, you will get three free transactions, while in non-metro areas, there will be five. After exceeding these limits, you will have to pay a fee. The changes are necessary due to rising operational costs, including maintenance and technology upgrades. The RBI aims to balance the convenience of using ATMs with the need for banks to cover their costs, ensuring that ATMs remain available for everyone.

Harsh Pokharna, the CEO of OkCredit, revealed that he struggled financially even after raising ₹120 crore for his startup in 2019. He lived paycheck to paycheck, unable to save, and worried about rent, despite his success. In his social media posts, he criticized venture capitalists for keeping founders financially constrained, suggesting they prefer entrepreneurs to remain poor. This situation is common, as many founders face similar challenges, unable to enjoy the benefits of their fundraising. Pokharna encouraged fellow founders to assert their rights and not be ashamed of seeking financial stability while pursuing their dreams.

The Perplexity WhatsApp bot is making waves with its innovative features that help users fact-check messages effortlessly. It allows conversations through voice mode and decodes videos for accurate information. Although it faces challenges in handling group chats, its main aim is to assist seniors in verifying the truth behind messages they receive. Users can simply forward texts, images, or videos to the bot, which cross-references claims with real-time web data. Supporting 20 Indian languages, the bot aims to protect against scams targeting the elderly, ensuring a safer messaging experience.

SEBI, India’s market regulator, has issued a warning to investors about ‘opinion trading platforms,’ which have emerged in the online gaming and betting sector. These platforms allow users to bet on real-life events, such as sports outcomes or political results. Although they resemble investment platforms, SEBI clarifies that these are not regulated and can be risky for users. With funding exceeding Rs 4,200 crore and a user base of over 5 crore, the popularity of these platforms is growing. However, SEBI emphasizes that investing through them lacks investor protection, potentially leading to financial losses.

Urban Company, backed by Tiger Global, is shutting down its unprofitable subsidiary in Saudi Arabia, Urban Company Arabia for Information Technology (UCAIT). The company is transferring its operations to a new joint venture established in October 2024. UCAIT reported significant losses over the past few years, leading to this decision. Urban Company's expansion into Saudi Arabia was initially launched through a partnership with Saudi Manpower Solutions Company. While the firm is performing well in other markets like the UAE, the Saudi operation is still in the investment phase. They are also preparing for a ₹1,900 crore IPO in India, indicating a focus on domestic growth.

The Mumbai Indians (MI) have a unique ability to turn their season around, and this year is no different. After a shaky start with only one win in five matches, they have surged to the top of the IPL 2025 points table by winning six consecutive games. Key performances from players like Suryakumar, Rohit, and Bumrah have been crucial. With their next three matches against strong teams, MI is a force to be reckoned with. Their combination of experienced players and current form makes them a tough opponent, and even the top teams will be cautious facing them.

The Indian stock market is set to open flat on Friday, following positive trends in global markets. While the Sensex and Nifty 50 indices faced minor losses recently, experts suggest that heavyweights in various sectors are providing stability. The Nifty 50 is currently testing resistance near the 24,400 mark. Investors are keenly awaiting global economic data, especially from the US, which could impact trading strategies. Analysts recommend focusing on specific stocks for buying opportunities. With Asian markets showing gains and strong performances from major US companies, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic for Indian investors.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated as the Pakistani Army launched unprovoked small-arms fire across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. This firing took place despite recent talks between military leaders from both countries aimed at maintaining peace. The Indian Army responded appropriately to the attacks, which have continued for eight consecutive nights, following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. The situation remains volatile as these incidents violate a previously agreed ceasefire aimed at ensuring stability along the borders.

The tech industry is facing a tough time with significant layoffs happening in April. A staggering 23,468 employees lost their jobs due to 19 companies cutting down on staff. This number is much higher compared to March, where 8,834 people were affected. Notable companies like Intel and Meta are leading these layoffs, with Intel letting go of about 20% of its workforce. In India, firms like Cars24 and Gupshup also laid off hundreds of employees, citing restructuring and cost-cutting. Experts suggest that workers should stay updated and enhance their skills to remain competitive in this challenging job market.

Sebi Chief Tuhin Kanta Pandey has dismissed the idea of an aptitude test for retail traders in the Futures & Options (F&O) market, calling it impractical. This decision follows a Sebi study revealing that 90% of retail investors lose money in trading these derivatives. While there are certifications for certain market participants, applying this to millions of retail traders poses challenges. Pandey emphasized that individuals should have the freedom to manage their finances. He highlighted the risks of leveraged trading, which Sebi discourages due to its high-risk nature, advocating for individual responsibility and choice in financial decisions.

Virat Kohli recently shared his favorite song, “Nee Singam Dhan,” from the Tamil film ‘Pathu Thala.’ He excitedly mentioned that fans would be shocked when he played it on his phone. The song, sung by popular playback artist Sid Sriram and composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman, features powerful lyrics that inspire strength and resilience. As RCB prepares for a crucial match against CSK, Kohli’s team stands at the top of the table, seeking a playoff spot. In contrast, CSK is struggling after a series of losses. This upcoming clash holds significant stakes for both teams, making it an exciting encounter for fans.

Punjab Kings faced a significant setback in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as star player Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a finger injury. The news was confirmed by his teammate Marcus Stoinis after their recent win against Chennai Super Kings. Stoinis explained that Maxwell injured his finger during training just before the last game, initially thinking it wasn’t serious. However, after scans revealed the injury was worse than expected, the team announced his absence for the remainder of the tournament. This makes Maxwell the second player from Punjab Kings to withdraw from IPL 2025, following Lockie Ferguson.

Motorola is shaking up the smartphone market with its vibrant designs and thoughtful features. The brand collaborates with Pantone to choose colors that resonate with consumers, ensuring that each device is stylish and appealing. They focus on premium materials like vegan leather and unique finishes, making their phones feel high-quality while remaining affordable. This strategy has paid off, with Motorola experiencing significant growth in India, especially in the mid-range segment, where they combine excellent features and design. By expanding into various tech products, Motorola aims to establish itself as a lifestyle brand, enhancing its appeal to a broader audience.

Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas has announced that their new browser, Comet, is set to launch in May. He addressed the importance of maintaining open-source projects, arguing against Google selling Chrome, as it plays a crucial role in the tech ecosystem. Srinivas expressed skepticism about OpenAI acquiring Chrome, citing their lack of commitment to open-source principles. He also hinted at the possibility of tracking user behavior to enhance advertising, although this idea is still hypothetical. Users will have the choice to opt-out of personalized ads, emphasizing privacy alongside functionality.

The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) is taking strong action against five restaurants in Delhi, including popular spots like Makhna Deli and Chaayos, for not refunding service charges. Despite a Delhi High Court ruling, these restaurants continued to force customers to pay mandatory service fees. The CCPA has issued notices under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, emphasizing that service charges are optional and should not be included in bills. This initiative aims to protect consumers from unfair practices and ensure they are informed about their rights when dining out.

IndusInd Bank is facing a major shakeup as CEO Sumant Kathpalia has resigned immediately following a serious accounting error related to derivatives. This marks the second high-profile exit in just two days, after Deputy CEO Arun Khurana stepped down. The Reserve Bank of India urged both leaders to resign due to the discrepancies that affected the bank's financial health. IndusInd Bank, India's fifth-largest private lender, has seen its shares decline by 7% since the news broke. The bank is now preparing for a management overhaul, with a temporary committee taking over leadership responsibilities. Depositors need not worry, as the central bank assures their funds are safe.

Mr. Trump's confidence in pressuring China is misguided. Chinese companies are familiar with tough challenges and can endure pressures that American businesses might struggle with. While the U.S. faces disruptions, like shortages of goods made in China, China continues to develop its manufacturing capabilities, such as producing essential antibiotics. The competition among Chinese firms is fierce, and even as the economy slows, many still manage to survive with local government support. In contrast, American tariffs may cause short-term pain, but they could also lead to long-term changes in supply chains, affecting consumers on both sides.