DESERT SECTOR

Should you sell or hold Voltas, Blue Star and other ‘summer stocks’ because the monsoon is early? Answer is not in black & white
While a number of “summer companies” have expanded their product portfolio to cater to the winter season, in many cases a large part of the revenue still comes from ACs, watercoolers, refrigerators, and other related products, whose consumption is directly related to how long the summer season lasts and what the average temperature is during these months. So, the risk of getting stuck with a wrong weather prediction is always high. But then, the market is forward-looking and it adjusts for what is happening at a speed which many may not even realise.

Coal India, HZL among successful bidders in 5th round of critical mineral block auction
Several companies, including Coal India and Oil India, have secured critical mineral blocks. These blocks were auctioned in the fifth round. The auction included minerals like graphite and potash. Hindustan Zinc also won a rare earth element block. This marks India's first successful potash block auction. The move aims to boost domestic mining and reduce import reliance.

Citykart’s big haul; A new AI race
Happy Tuesday! Value fashion retailer Citykart has raised fresh funds to fuel its expansion plans. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.

'Goli unhone chalayi thi par dhamaka humne kiya,' says Indian Army major on Operation Sindoor
Indian Army conducted Operation Sindoor. It targeted enemy's terror infrastructure and posts. The operation was a calculated response to Pakistan's actions. Advanced radar systems were used. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited Longewala. He praised the troops for their role. Joint actions with the Air Force and BSF established operational dominance. The Army remains committed to national security.

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi visits forward areas of Konark Corps in the desert sector, congratulates troops for Operation Sindoor
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited Laungewala, praising troops of the Konark Corps for their role in Operation Sindoor, which involved coordinated efforts between the Army, Air Force, and BSF. The operation successfully blunted enemy intent and established dominance along the western front through rapid deployment of surveillance and air defense systems.

Donald Trump heads to UAE as it hopes to advance AI ambitions
A string of business agreements has been inked during Trump's four-day swing through the Gulf region, including a deal for Qatar Airways to purchase up to 210 Boeing widebody jets, a $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia to invest in the U.S. and $142 billion in U.S. arms sales to the kingdom.
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Fresh LoC firing forces villagers in J-K's Akhnoor to relocate
Families near the Line of Control in Akhnoor are once again displaced due to ongoing cross-border firing, seeking shelter after being advised to evacuate. A resident recounts past damage and displacement, including during the Kargil war, highlighting the recurring disruption to their lives.
These U.S states, including Republican ones, ignore Donald Trump's tariffs, launch their own campaign to woo Canadian tourists
Canadian tourists are missing from many U.S. destinations in 2025, and top states like California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Massachusetts, and Palm Springs are taking major steps to bring them back. With rising travel costs, a strong U.S. dollar, and fewer cross-border trips, these places are launching emotional campaigns, travel discounts, and personal messages to reconnect with Canadian travelers. From banners in Palm Springs to deep hotel deals in California, this nationwide effort is about more than tourism.
Pakistan's gameplan: Always the aggressor, always the loser
India-Pakistan War: Tensions between India and Pakistan have reignited following the terror attack in Pahalgam. The historical analysis reveals a pattern of Pakistan initiating conflicts, from the 1947 Kashmir war to the 1999 Kargil conflict, consistently underestimating India's military strength and resilience.
IAF to conduct major border drills with Rafale, Mirage 2000 and Sukhoi-30 jets amid rising tensions with Pakistan
The Indian Air Force will conduct a high-intensity military exercise near the India-Pakistan border on 7 and 8 May, involving frontline aircraft including Rafale, Mirage 2000 and Sukhoi-30s. The drills follow the 22 April terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that left 26 civilians dead, prompting national security reviews and civil defence mock drills across states. While India boosts operational readiness, the UN has urged restraint. Secretary-General António Guterres stated, “A military solution is no solution” and warned of rising tensions.
India sees a future making solar panels for itself, and maybe the world
India is strategically positioning itself as a clean energy manufacturing hub, aiming to reduce reliance on China and capitalize on global supply chain diversification. Driven by domestic demand and government incentives, India is expanding its solar and EV battery production.
India fast-tracks VSHORADS-NG missile deal amid border security concerns
Amid heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, India has issued a tender for next-generation Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS-NG). The Army plans to procure 48 launchers, 48 night-vision sights, 85 missiles, and one portable test station. The indigenous version by DRDO remains in trials, prompting urgent acquisitions. These systems are intended for use across varied terrains and weather conditions.
Crypto industry descends on Dubai as Trump euphoria recedes
Crypto enthusiasts gathered in Dubai for TOKEN2049, amidst mixed sentiments regarding Donald Trump's impact on the industry. Despite a strong start to the year with significant venture capital investments, concerns linger about the pace of pro-crypto regulation and the global economy.
Panic in Pakistan as India vows to cut off water supply over Kashmir
Pakistani farmers fear widespread desertification and hunger as India threatens to cut off water supplies from the Indus River following a terrorist attack in Kashmir. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, raising concerns about irrigation for 80% of Pakistani farms and potentially crippling the nation's economy due to water shortages impacting agriculture and electricity generation.
Summer stocks: Will the playbook be different in 2025? 10 stocks that need to be watched in the short term
When it comes to the so-called “summer stocks”, there are two factors to consider: The length of the summer season and the average temperatures during those months. The longer and hotter the summer season, the better the sales of these companies. But is it the same for their stock price?
Tariffs may mean more US steel jobs. Will there be workers to fill them?
Eastern Arkansas's steel industry, vital to President Trump's manufacturing revival, faces a worker shortage despite good wages. Long commutes and temporary housing are common, reflecting a decline in local quality of life and a lack of skilled labor. Efforts to attract residents include housing incentives, but challenges remain in overcoming the area's economic struggles and negative perceptions.
In race for tech supremacy, India can ill-afford to be mere spectator, says top Army officer
Lt Gen Amardeep Singh Aujla urged the Indian defence industry to collaborate with the armed forces to ensure national security, emphasizing the need for customized solutions and timely delivery during conflicts. Speaking at an industry event, he stressed quality and technological advancement, calling for increased investment in R&D and digital transformation.
These large- and mid-cap stocks can give more than 25% return in 1 year, according to analysts
The markets will do what they are supposed to do when a New World Order is being written. No one can control it. So, if volatility is forcing you to make decisions that you regret the next day, stay away from the markets. Or, focus on a few things as an investor. One, ignore short-term market movements. Two, evaluate the sectors and businesses behind the stocks you own or plan to own. There is no better time to do this exercise than when the earning season kicks off. While Trump-induced volatility will continue, what finally matters is earnings. So, focus on earning and diversifying your portfolio.
How the oil price plunge complicates Saudi Arabia's economic agenda
Saudi Arabia is facing economic challenges due to plummeting oil prices, impacting its ambitious Vision 2030 diversification plan. With oil revenue declining and benchmark Brent prices slipping, the kingdom may need to increase debt or cut spending. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) might seek additional financing as Aramco's dividends are expected to fall.
Oman beckons Indians for corporate events, destination weddings
Oman is actively targeting Indian tourists for corporate events and destination weddings, highlighting its diverse regions and streamlined visa processes. Key locations include Muscat, Salalah, and Jabal Akhdar. The MICE sector and personal celebrations like weddings are expected to boost tourism significantly.
Retail Apocalypse: Macy’s, CVS, and Foot Locker lead wave of 15,000 store closures in 2025
In 2025, a record 15,000 stores are projected to close, doubling last year's number. Inflation and online shopping trends are hurting brick-and-mortar retailers, notably in pharmacies and fashion. Macy's is closing many stores due to financial struggles, while discount retailers thrive. The retail landscape is shifting, demanding adaptation from businesses.
Rajasthan's new land registration law to increase costs and delay renewable energy projects, experts warn
Rajasthan's renewable energy projects face cost hikes and delays due to new land registration laws requiring companies to pay stamp duties. These changes increase land expenses by 8%-10%, affecting the overall project cost. Land expenses already account for about one-fifth of total project costs.
Cabinet Committee on Security clears Rs 7,000 crore made-in-India artillery guns deal
The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved a Rs 7,000 crore deal to procure indigenous 155 mm ATAGS artillery guns, developed by DRDO with Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems. Over 65% of components will be sourced domestically, and the project aims to generate 20 lakh man hours across sectors.
Parliamentary panel flags brain drain from health dept, delay in filling vacancies in research posts
A parliamentary committee has raised concerns about unoccupied posts of scientists in the Department of Health Research and recommended stopping contractual appointments to prevent brain drain. The panel emphasized enhancing higher education and research infrastructure, improving standards of living, and offering competitive pay to retain Indian professionals.
India to develop engine for new Arjun tanks
India is now planning to go for developing an indigenous power plant for Arjun Mark 1A tanks as the German engines used for powering the indigenous tanks are likely to be delayed.
Essar Group and Desert Technologies sign MoU for renewable energy solutions
Desert Technologies (DT) and Essar Group have signed an MOU to develop renewable energy solutions for Essar Group's Green Steel Arabia project in Saudi Arabia. The partnership aims to develop renewable energy generation and storage solutions for Essar's Flat Steel Complex and explore opportunities for other potential projects.
Made-in-India Prachand combat choppers carry out wargames with Army, performing well: IAF pilots
The Prachand Light Combat Helicopters were inducted into the Air Force on October 3 last year and have been flying extensively in the desert sector since then.
Lt Gen M M S Rai takes over as the new vice chief of Army staff
MMS Rai replaced Lt Gen Philip Campose, who superannuated last evening. He was the Eastern Army Commander prior to his appointment as VCOAS.
Private sector deserts war on Tuberculosis, funding down 33% since 2011
Multi-drug resistant TB is rapidly spreading with 450,000-odd new cases reported in 2012 by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
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