Trump’s Bold Move: Tariffs on Hollywood Films!

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing lives in India, with a recent KPMG study finding that 76% of Indians trust AI. Most respondents (90%) believe AI enhances accessibility and effectiveness, while 78% express concerns about negative impacts, such as reduced human interaction. Despite these worries, 67% feel they cannot complete their tasks without AI, and an impressive 97% use AI at work. The report highlights the need for responsible AI governance, as many employees use AI in ways that defy company policies. Nevertheless, 82% reported improved efficiency and quality of work, showcasing the dual nature of AI as both beneficial and risky.

Losing your phone can be a nightmare, but quick action can save your personal data and help you recover your device. Smartphones hold sensitive information like banking apps, emails, and photos, making it crucial to secure them fast. If your iPhone is lost, use the Find My app to lock it and display your contact info. Contact your service provider to block your SIM and prevent unauthorized usage. Change your passwords immediately to protect your accounts. Be cautious of phishing scams that may try to steal your information. By staying informed and acting quickly, you can protect your data and minimize the impact of mobile theft.

Urban Company is revolutionizing the gig economy in India by connecting skilled workers such as electricians and beauticians with customers. These workers often earn more than the average salaried employee, with some making around Rs 49,719 per month. Urban Company helps them by providing training and access to consistent demand, charging a fee in return. While they earn significantly more than traditional workers, they lack employee benefits like insurance. The company is planning a Rs 1,900 crore IPO to strengthen its technology, even as changes in labor laws could affect its profits.

India's $30-billion media and entertainment industry faced a shock as US President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on foreign films before their US release. This move could double ticket prices and significantly impact Indian films' box office revenues in the US, which range between ₹800 crore and ₹1,000 crore annually. Filmmakers like Vivek Agnihotri voiced concerns, stating that this tariff could lead to the collapse of India's struggling film industry. Industry experts suggest that while Indian films have limited exposure in the US, this policy could affect the international market dynamics. The future of the industry now hinges on the details of Trump's announcement.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken strict action against Synoptics Technologies Ltd (STL) for misusing funds raised from its recent IPO. SEBI found that STL siphoned off a significant amount, claiming it was for issue-related expenses, which did not match the actual expenses disclosed. The company raised Rs 54.04 crore through its IPO, but more than Rs 19 crore was transferred under false pretenses. SEBI's investigation revealed that funds intended for strategic investments were quickly redirected to questionable entities, raising serious concerns about the company's integrity. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in financial dealings.

The recent conflict between India and Pakistan has caused a significant drop in the Pakistan stock market. On May 7, investors reacted strongly to India's strikes on terrorist sites in Pakistan and Kashmir during 'Operation Sindoor', leading to a sharp fall in the Karachi-100 index by 5.5%, dropping to 107,296.64 points. This decline followed a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, with the KSE-100 index down by 3.7%. In contrast, India's Sensex index saw a slight increase of about 1.5%. The situation is evolving, and investors are advised to seek expert guidance before making decisions.

Manoj Naravane recently posted on X (formerly Twitter) with the intriguing message, “Abhi picture baki hai…” This statement has sparked curiosity just before the official media briefing on Operation Sindoor, which is set to begin shortly. The phrase suggests that there is more to come, leaving many eager for details. This operation is likely of significant importance, prompting public interest and speculation. Stay tuned for more updates as the briefing unfolds!

Checking your credit score is crucial if you've recently started using a credit card or taken a personal loan. A credit score, ranging from 300 to 900, reflects your ability to repay loans. A higher score means you're seen as trustworthy by lenders. Knowing your score helps you improve it by addressing issues like high credit use or late payments. It also helps catch fraud early if you notice sudden drops or unfamiliar activities. If you plan to make a big purchase, like a car, checking your score first gives you time to enhance it before applying for a loan.

Following military strikes, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has led to the closure of numerous airports, schools, and institutions. Srinagar Airport has suspended all civil flights, as confirmed by airport officials. Schools and colleges across several districts, including Baramulla and Kupwara, are closed for safety reasons. Authorities are urging residents to stay alert and calm. Furthermore, educational institutions in Jammu's border districts are also shut down. Travel disruptions are expected, with airlines like Air India cancelling flights to various cities. The public is advised to follow official guidelines during this tense time.

India has launched 'Operation Sindoor' targeting the terror bases of Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The Indian Air Force conducted precise night raids on nine locations, including important hideouts like Sarjal and Markaz Subhan Allah. Many Indians expressed their support for the military action, viewing it as a strong response to terrorism and a way to avenge the victims of past attacks. Families of victims, like Asvari Jagdale, celebrated the operation, feeling that justice has been served. The strikes symbolize India's determination to combat terrorism and protect its citizens.

Cognizant, a major US IT firm with a large workforce in India, plans to hire 20,000 fresh graduates in 2025. This ambitious move aims to strengthen the company's talent pool, especially for managed services and AI-driven software development. While the overall employee count remains steady at 336,300, CEO Ravi Kumar emphasized that this hiring initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance growth and innovation. Cognizant is also focused on improving productivity with AI and has welcomed back 14,000 former employees, with plans for more rehires. The company reported a 7.45% increase in revenue, signaling positive growth.

Airtel Business has launched an innovative solution called ‘Business Name Display’ (BND) to help companies gain customer trust during phone calls. This service allows businesses to show their brand name on the caller ID of the recipient’s phone, making it easier for users to identify genuine calls and avoid spam. Sharat Sinha, Director & CEO of Airtel Business, emphasized that this feature enhances communication by providing clarity and assurance. During trials, BND showed impressive results, boosting customer engagement significantly. This initiative is part of Airtel’s broader effort to tackle spam calls in India, ensuring that genuine calls are recognized.

Bharti Real Estate, under Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Enterprises, is making exciting plans with Universal Studios to open its first theme park in India. This park will take up about 10% of the total area in a new development at Delhi Aerocity, which is set to cover 17 million square feet. The theme park is expected to be completed by mid-2027, promising to boost tourism and local revenue in Delhi. The Delhi government has recently allowed restaurants and bars to operate 24/7 in Aerocity, enhancing its appeal as a major tourist spot.

Prime Focus has announced a massive ₹3,000 crore investment to create a film city in Mumbai, aiming to revolutionize the entertainment industry. This new facility will not only generate up to 2,500 jobs but will also attract tourists and content creators from around the globe. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the initiative as part of the state's effort to boost infrastructure and economic growth. The project promises cutting-edge production studios, live entertainment venues, and leisure spaces, positioning Mumbai as a premier destination for media and tourism. This ambitious hub aims to celebrate India's rich cinematic history while showcasing its cultural heritage.

Indian billionaire Balvinder Singh Sahni, known as ‘Abu Sabah,’ was sentenced to five years in jail for money laundering in Dubai. The court also ordered the confiscation of 150 million AED (₹344 crore) from him and mandated his deportation after serving his sentence. Sahni's son was among 32 individuals convicted in this case. The investigations revealed a complex money laundering scheme involving fake companies and suspicious transactions across various jurisdictions. This case highlights the serious legal repercussions of financial crimes, serving as a warning to others in the business world.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) made headlines by adding 57.49 tonnes of gold to its reserves during the fiscal year ending March 2025. This significant addition saw the value of gold holdings rise by an impressive 48.41%. The RBI also repatriated 38.64 tonnes of gold from banks abroad, totaling 88.60 tonnes returned to India in two years. As of March 2025, the RBI held 879.59 metric tonnes of gold, with over half stored domestically. The value of these gold reserves jumped to $78.17 billion, marking a notable increase in the gold's share of total foreign exchange reserves. This trend reflects a growing global demand for gold, as central banks continue to invest heavily in it.

Tensions between India and Pakistan are rising as both nations focus on military readiness following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. India has downgraded diplomatic ties and initiated extensive military drills, the first of which was conducted on May 7 since 1971. These drills aim to enhance civil defense preparedness, including air raid warnings and evacuation plans. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy is boosting its capabilities with new technology designed for underwater combat. Pakistan has also conducted missile tests in response, emphasizing the ongoing military competition. Both nations remain alert and ready to protect their interests.

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to be appointed as captain or vice-captain for the upcoming tour to England. Despite leading India to a Test victory against Australia last year, Bumrah's recent injury means he may not play all five Tests. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) prefers a consistent captain and vice-captain who can play throughout the series. After recovering from a back injury, Bumrah has returned strong, taking 11 wickets in his last seven matches for the Mumbai Indians. India's England tour kicks off on June 20, concluding on July 31.