🏦 Economy / Policy
• RBI kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.25% with a neutral stance, signalling a prolonged pause as inflation stays benign and growth remains near 7% 📊
• India–US interim trade framework cuts US tariffs on most Indian goods to 18% and grants zero-duty access to about $44 billion of exports, paving the way for a full BTA by mid-March 💹
• Zero duty on gems and pharma exports under the India–US trade deal is expected to boost competitiveness, while agri and MSME interests remain protected, said Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal 📈
• Industry awaits clarity on tariff cuts for agricultural products under the India–US trade pact 🌾
🏢 Companies / Sectors
• Gig hiring is expected to surge in 2026 as quick commerce and e-commerce expand beyond metros, boosting flexible workforce demand 📦📈
• Zero duty on large bikes under the India–US trade deal will benefit premium motorcycle makers such as Harley-Davidson 🏍️📈
• State Bank of India reported its highest-ever quarterly profit of about ₹21,028 crore in Q3 FY26, up ~25% YoY on strong credit growth and NII 💰📈
• Hindustan Zinc has developed a zinc-ion battery pouch-cell prototype for renewable energy storage, marking entry into advanced energy storage tech 🔋📈
🌍 Global / World
• IMF’s latest outlook pegs global growth at about 3.3% in 2026 with emerging Asia leading, reinforcing a supportive macro backdrop for India 🌍📊