Why surge pricing is coming at restaurants, online retailers and more
Once reserved for the travel industry, dynamic pricing is spreading. Consumers should expect to start paying premiums during periods of high demand. Key Points
BBCVi, Airtel back tariff plan to make consumers pay as per their usage
But that could be difficult to implement on ground as market leader Reliance Jio is believed to be opposed to the tiering of price plans - where data allowance is linked to the tariff plan - as it feels such an exercise can complicate tariff structures, confuse consumers and eventually hurt data usage. Analysts said while the pay-as-you-use model or tier-based pricing model can boost telco revenue, it can work only if implemented collectively by all operators. Key Points
Economic TimesSEC proposes new regulations to promote fairness among broker-dealers
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is proposing new regulations aimed at eliminating pricing practices that have given larger broker-dealers an unfair advantage on U.S. stock exchanges. The plan seeks to limit the practice of giving lower transaction fees and incentives to brokerages with bigger trading volumes. The SEC aims to address the complex and unequal pricing tiers that exist among exchanges, ensuring that brokerages prioritize the best interests of their clients. Key Points
Economic TimesDrug pricing regulator looking to make vital health supplements more affordable
The National Pharmaceutical pricing Authority (NPPA) proposes to invoke extraordinary powers in public interest, under para 19 of Drugs Prices Control Order (DPCO) 2013, for an indefinite period to make them more affordable to patients, it has said. The NPPA has been invoking para 19 in certain cases in the public interest to make drugs affordable with indefinite period, said the minutes of the authority meeting. ET has seen the minutes of the meeting. Key Points
Economic TimesBroadcasters hike prices of channel bouquets on rising content expenses
Broadcasters have increased their prices for the second time following the implementation of NTO 3.0 by the TRAI in November 2022. The TV channel prices were frozen for nearly three years before February 2023 due to an impasse over the implementation of NTO 2.0. The price hike in February 2023 followed a dispute between broadcasters and cable TV companies, resulting in broadcasters switching off TV signals to cable TV operators. Key Points
Economic Times
Pakistan must finalize new fuel pricing plan to secure IMF deal. Here's why
IMF and Pakistan are set to sign a loan agreement after finalizing a fuel pricing plan. The deal would provide $1.1bn to the cash-strapped country. | World News Key Points
Hindustan TimesNatural gas price fixed at $7.92 for April, capped at $6.5 for consumers
The government on Friday announced a natural gas price of $7.92 per unit for the remainder of April according to the just-approved new pricing formula, but rates for consumers have been capped at $6.5 per unit. Key Points
The Tribune IndiaDollar advances as traders weigh rate-cut bets, Red Sea tensions
By Ankur Banerjee SINGAPORE (Reuters) -The dollar rose on Tuesday as investors pared back bets on near-term rate-cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve following hawkish comments from European Central Bank Key Points
ThePrintCBDT signs 95 APAs in FY23
India has filed 516 Advance pricing Agreements (APA) so far, resulting in finalizing the taxation of about ₹19,000 crore of income, according to the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). The CBDT has signed 95 APA and 32 bilateral APAs in the fiscal year 2022-23, the highest number filed in a year. The APAs have resolved complex transfer pricing issues without litigation, contributing to India's mission of promoting ease of doing business. Key Points
Economic TimesUS Chamber of Commerce sues over government's drug pricing power
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce on Friday sued the federal government, challenging a new law that for the first time gives Medicare the power to negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies. Key Points
Reuters
Gas price for Apr at $7.92 but price for ONGC/OIL capped at $6.5: Govt order
The Union Cabinet while changing the pricing formula capped the rates at USD 6.5 per million British thermal unit. Key Points
FinancialexpressUnilever to 'defend its position' amid attack on price points by local companies
If you look at India, the good thing about quarter four is with the price pressure that is there in India, one of the impacts of deflationary pressure in some categories could be with increased competition and so forth. We have seen a volume growth, so the minus 2% on pricing was balanced by a 2% volume growth. I think that's a positive for India, Unilever's chief executive officer Hein Schumacher said during its earnings call. Key Points
Economic TimesCBDT signs 95 APAs in FY'23, highest ever since launch
The Income Tax department in India has achieved a record-high number of 95 advance pricing agreements (APA) signed in the financial year 2022-23. This marks the highest number of APA signings since the program's launch in 2012. The APA program, initiated by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), aims to create an investor-friendly and non-adversarial tax regime in the country. Key Points
Economic TimesPizza profits get sliced in the US - Consumers seek budget-friendly bites
Papa John's profit plunges 30% in Q2 due to inflation-triggered price hikes. Consumers opt for budget-friendly alternatives like frozen pizzas. | World News Key Points
Hindustan TimesCBDT signs 95 Advance pricing Agreements in FY23
This includes 63 Unilateral APAs (UAPAs) and 32 Bilateral APAs (BAPAs). With this, the total number of APAs since inception of the APA programme has gone up to 516, comprising 420 UAPAs and 96 BAPAs. The BAPAs were signed as a consequence of entering into Mutual Agreements with Indias treaty partners namely Finland, the UK, the US, Denmark, Singapore, and Japan, CBDT said in a statement issued Friday. Key Points
Economic Times
Finally out of the woods? 4 small and midcap pharma stocks with an upside potential of up to 26%
Pharma as a sector has been under pressure for a very long time. Some time USFDA issues, at other instances of pricing pressure in US markets have been troubling the sector. However, some of the small and mid sized Indian pharma companies which are not hit by pricing pressure of the US generic market and other issues which large pharma companies have been facing keep attracting interest from the analyst. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesWhat to expect from TCS and rest of IT sector this earning season? Moshe Katri explains
IT is expected to have a better earnings setup than feared in the coming quarters, with the Street looking for 8-10% growth. This optimism is based on Accenture's spectacular bookings and record pipelines reported by ISG. However, macroeconomic instability, particularly around the BFSI industry, remains a concern. In terms of TCS, the critical factors to watch out for are pipeline conversion, sales cycles, and pricing. Key Points
Economic TimesIndia's Bajaj Electricals posts plunge in Q2 profit on weak demand, stiff competition
India's Bajaj Electricals (BJEL.NS) posted a 56% fall in its second-quarter profit on Monday, hurt by pricing pressures due to stiff competition and muted demand caused by a delayed festive period. Key Points
ReutersAsian shares stumble as traders sweat on Fed rates
Gold prices steadied on Thursday following a 1% drop in the previous session, with spot gold up 0.3% at $1,945.89 an ounce. Key Points
FinancialexpressHaj differential pricing: Gujarat HC issues notice, says ‘be grateful’ for getting chance to go on pilgrimage
The petitioners have pointed out that there is significant differential pricing for pilgrims undertaking Haj from Ahmedabad (Rs 3.72 lakh) as compared to those from Mumbai (Rs 3.04 lakh). Key Points
The Indian Express
Alcoholic beverage industry wants inflation-linked pricing model to offset rising input costs
In India, alcohol prices are controlled by individual states. Industry says it’s seeking the change to cover up its costs and not for commercial gains. Key Points
ThePrintMoto G34 5G to debut in India on Jan 9; teased on Flipkart ahead of the launch
Moto G34 5G will be unveiled in India on January 9, with availability on Lenovo's official website and Flipkart. The smartphone will have a distinctive vegan leather finish and pricing details are yet to be disclosed. Key Points
mintRational with telco tariffs pe tariffs
Telecom is acquiring an economic role as vital as energy, and the government should draw its conclusions from price distortions in the electricity industry that has hobbled private investment. Solutions need to be sought within the judicial constraints on pricing natural resources to allow the industry to grow on its own. Free pricing provides the sole assurance. Key Points
The Economic TimesChecking predatory pricing for port tariffs need of hour
The ports, shipping, and waterways ministry in India has proposed restrictions on port tariffs to prevent predatory pricing by public-private-partnership (PPP) ports. The proposal suggests that port tariffs should not be less than the operating cost per tonne of the asset. This could have implications for private sector port operators in the country. The ministry aims to implement regulatory caps within the next two years to address the issue of predatory pricing and restrict mergers and acquisitions that result in a dominant position in the maritime sector. The Competition Commission of India will oversee any deals that breach competition laws. Key Points
Economic TimesIMF says private sector needs to shoulder most of climate investment burden
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that the majority of the $2 trillion in annual climate investments needed by developing countries by 2030 will have to come from the private sector. Governments risk accumulating high debts if they attempt to reach net-zero goals using public funds. The IMF recommends that countries develop carbon pricing schemes to raise revenue and encourage private investments. Key Points
Economic Times
Govt asks airlines to devise mechanism for reasonable pricing of air tickets
Airfares have jumped significantly on certain routes, especially in the wake of crisis-hit Go First suspending operations from May 3. During an hour-long meeting of the airlines advisory group, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia shared his concerns about the steep rise in airfares on certain routes. Key Points
Economic TimesPrice tags for most daily essentials will fall in next few months
These pricing actions are part of an all-out effort by the companies to improve volume sales which is crucial for the industry to expand their sales. The industry is expecting volumes to grow significantly from March-April onwards with lower and stable pricing, increased government spending ahead of general elections, and higher farming income aiding the recovery process. For FMCG, it is also to fight the increased competition from regional brands. Key Points
Economic TimesFEDAI should help in ensuring fair prices to small clients, streamlining procedures: RBI DG
The central bank has had to deal with several representations from small customers especially the MSMEs and other retail participants complaining about high foreign exchange transaction charges. FEDAI should supplement RBI's efforts in streamlining and rationalising procedures. Key Points
Economic TimesCBDT signs record number of 125 Advance pricing Agreements in FY24
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has entered into a record 125 Advance pricing Agreements (APAs) with Indian taxpayers in 2023-24. This includes 86 Unilateral APAs (UAPAs) and 39 Bilateral APAs (BAPAs), the finance ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. Key Points
Economic TimesDollar steady before Fed, euro slips on ECB cut comments
By Samuel Indyk and Ankur Banerjee LONDON (Reuters) -The dollar was steady on Monday as investors took stock of U.S. economic data ahead of the Federal Reserve policy meeting this week, while the euro Key Points
ThePrint
2024 Kia Sonet launched in India; Check out prices, variants and more
Kia Motors India has launched the 2024 edition of the Kia Sonet, with an introductory starting price of ₹8 lakh for the entry-level variant. The pricing strategy aims to make the SUV more accessible to a wider audience and includes advanced safety features. Key Points
mintIndia will have to eventually move to lower customs duty regime, says DPIIT Secy Rajesh Kumar Singh
India will eventually move to a lower customs duty regime and cannot continue protecting domestic manufacturers by citing the infant industry argument. The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said tariffs are not considered a revenue source but are used as a policy tool to ensure higher protection for certain sectors to boost domestic manufacturing. Key Points
Economic TimesContra view! Realty stocks deliver skyscraping returns in last 1 year. Time to get off the escalator?
I see that the stock prices leave no room for comfort because now the pricing is going beyond the common man's reach, analyst Sanjiv Bhasin told ET Now. He said this referring to the escalation in property prices notwithstanding a benign input cost. Key Points
Economic TimesCorrection are some times opportunities; 5 mid & smallcap cement stocks with upside potential of up to 30%
Cement has been a sector where most of the analysts have been caught off guards. The stocks have done well and a large number of analysts have been sticking to their stands that pricing and capacity utilization is an issue. What they probably ignored was the fact that any industry which has been facing headwinds for a long time tends to sort the issues and few players are able to make a comeback as consolidation takes place. Pretty much what we have seen in power. Due to government focus on infrastructure for the last nine years, a number of cement players have been able to improve their balance sheets and also become operationally efficient. With the policy continuity there is a high probability that we may see a similar trend in coming years. Key Points
Economic TimesTime to book some profit in real estate, auto stocks and Vodafone; 2 stocks to buy now: Sanjiv Bhasin
Sanjiv Bhasin says: “Be cautious of some of the outstretched valuation and when you get these big brokerage calls of absurd returns, you should be selling. Right now, if I have comfort it is in some of the PSU oil marketing companies, some of the pharma names. And if you want I can suggest two names which I think can outperform from here.” Key Points
Economic Times
'Semiconductor revenue set to grow 17% globally'
Global semiconductor revenue is projected to grow by 16.8% to $624 billion in 2024, according to Gartner. However, in 2023, the market is expected to Key Points
Times Of India10-year US Treasury yield tops 5% for first time since 2007
The run-up in yields on the 10-year Treasury bond, seen as a safe-haven in times of economic uncertainty and a benchmark for borrowing costs around the world, has been driven by investors pricing in stronger U.S. growth as well as fiscal slippage. Key Points
Economic TimesEach company is an industry in itself: 4 speciality chemical stocks with upside potential of up to 45%
After a long period of time, some specialty chemicals companies in their concall and post result commentary have indicated that dumping from China is once again becoming an issue for them and has led to pricing pressure. But as an investor’s one should remember that there are many segments of the chemical industry and just because one segment is facing pressure, the other one will also face and hence the stock may face pressure is not the correct approach. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesFinally out of the woods? 5 small and midcap pharma stocks with an upside potential of up to 23%
Pharma as a sector, both in terms of business and stocks price performance has been under pressure for a very long time. Some time USFDA issues, at other instances of pricing pressure in US markets have been troubling the sector. However, recently some tailwinds have emerged both for the companies focussing on domestic pharma and also the ones focussed on the US generic market. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesPackages of top drug brands to have QR codes from today
The National Pharmaceuticals pricing Authority (NPPA) had last year identified brands including Dolo, Saridon Fabiflu, Ecosprin, Limcee, Sumo, Calpol, Corex syrup, Unwanted 72 and Thyronorm. They were shortlisted on the basis of their moving annual turnover value as per data from market research firm Pharmatrac. Key Points
Economic Times
On path to recovery: 4 small- and mid-cap pharma stocks with upside potential up to 27%
Pharma as a sector has been under pressure for a very long time. However, some of the small and mid sized Indian pharma companies which are not hit by pricing pressure of the US generic market and other issues which large pharma companies have been facing keep attracting interest from the analyst. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesIndustry pricing structure should change, pay more for higher usage: Gopal Vittal
Indias current telecom services pricing architecture, he said, is more of a one-size fits all approach that and cant work in the long run as a customer, typically, pays the same independent of the level of usage. “Our pricing structure is broken, and (data) allowances should ideally be linked to price as is the case in markets like Indonesia, Thailand or Philippines,” Vittal said at Airtel's fiscal fourth quarter earnings call Wednesday. Key Points
Economic TimesOn a path to recovery: 4 small pharma stocks with an upside potential of up to 27%
As the markets get jittery, select pharma stocks are back in focus. This tends to happen in volatile markets. Some of them are small and mid sized Indian pharma companies which are not hit by pricing pressure of the US generic market and other issues which large pharma companies are facing. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesWhy Rakesh Arora is in no hurry to buy cement and steel stocks now
Rakesh Arora of Go India, predicts a moderate outlook for the cement and steel sectors beyond Q1 of this year. A lack of price discipline and the emergence of new competitors such as Adani Cement could hamper pricing, leading to a potential disappointment in the cement industry if companies continue to push towards volume over pricing. While cost pressures are reducing and margins are improving due to cost reduction, the picture for steel remains uncertain due to global demand risks and dropping steel prices in China. Key Points
Economic TimesOn a path to recovery: 5 midcap pharma stocks with an upside potential up to 32%
As the markets get jittery, select pharma stocks are back in focus. This tends to happen in volatile markets. Some of them are mid-sized Indian pharma companies which are not hit by pricing pressure of the US generic market and other issues which large pharma companies are facing. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic Times
India's overnight swap market pricing in rate cuts before 2023 end
Swap rates plummeted after the RBI on Thursday surprised market participants by keeping the repo rate unchanged at 6.50%. Before that, the RBI had delivered six consecutive hikes of an aggregate of 250 bps in fiscal 2023 Key Points
mintOn a path to recovery; 5 mid-cap pharma stocks with an upside potential up to 41%
As the markets get jittery, select pharma stocks are back in focus. This tends to happen in bearish markets. Some of them are mid-sized Indian pharma companies which are not hit by pricing pressure of the US generic market and other issues which large pharma companies are facing. The list is based on upside estimated by the analysts, with the highest potential stock coming on the top of the list. Key Points
Economic TimesFMCG brands experimenting with pack sizes to curtail competition: Abneesh Roy
Campa Cola is priced a bit cheaper compared to other beverages in terms of Pepsi, Coca-Cola or other colas as well. Is this is the beginning of a price war? Will that be something of a threat for these other companies? Campa Cola has not advertised for a few decades. The consumers who used to know Campa Cola may not be a very relevant customer base now because of the positioning of this kind of product. So those would be the bigger challenges. Key Points
Economic Times