Global geopolitical developments and crude oil price fluctuations are expected to play a decisive role in determining the direction of equity markets in the coming week. Analysts say investor sentiment will remain closely tied to developments surrounding the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which has already triggered volatility in global energy markets. In addition, market participants will carefully monitor key domestic macroeconomic indicators, including wholesale inflation data, trade balance figures, and foreign exchange reserves.

India’s gems and jewellery export sector showed modest growth in February, reflecting the industry’s resilience amid global economic uncertainty. Exports increased by 3.86 percent year-on-year, reaching USD 2,680.79 million, equivalent to approximately Rs 24,340.05 crore. The growth was driven largely by diversification into emerging international markets as exporters adapted to shifting global demand.

PepsiCo India has strengthened its youth-focused marketing strategy by appointing emerging actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda as the newest faces of its brand campaigns. The move reflects the beverage giant’s ongoing effort to deepen engagement with Gen Z consumers ahead of the high-demand summer season. Known for its long-standing association with youth culture and pop entertainment, Pepsi continues to align its brand messaging with rising cultural icons who resonate with younger audiences.

India’s state-owned oil marketing companies (OMCs) are evaluating a controversial strategy to manage rising financial pressure caused by a prolonged freeze on retail fuel prices. With international crude oil prices climbing from around USD 70 per barrel to more than USD 100 due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, domestic petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged. This gap has forced OMCs to absorb significant losses. To offset the financial burden, companies are reportedly considering reducing payments to refineries by altering refinery transfer prices.

India’s real estate sector is witnessing a strong surge in overseas investment, with non-resident Indians (NRIs) playing an increasingly influential role in property sales. Leading developer DLF has reported property sales worth approximately Rs 5,250 crore to NRI buyers during the April–December period of the current fiscal year. These purchases accounted for nearly one-third of the company’s total sales bookings, highlighting a major shift in buyer demographics.

New Jersey policymakers are reconsidering the possibility of legalizing casinos outside Atlantic City, reviving a debate that voters decisively rejected nearly a decade ago. The renewed discussion is largely driven by the emergence of three major casino developments planned in New York City, which could draw gamblers and tax revenue away from the state. Lawmakers have introduced legislation that could allow casinos to be established at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park racetracks, subject to voter approval.

Star Entertainment Group, one of Australia’s largest casino operators, is pursuing a crucial refinancing arrangement as it attempts to stabilize its finances and avoid further liquidity stress. Executives from U.S.-based private credit firm WhiteHawk Capital have traveled to Australia to evaluate the company’s casino assets while considering a potential loan exceeding Rs 3,300 crore. The funding could replace Star’s existing debt facility and provide critical breathing space for the company.

Virginia lawmakers have approved legislation that could open the door for a casino resort in Tysons, a prominent commercial and financial hub in Northern Virginia. The bill, passed by both the state House and Senate, would allow residents to determine the project’s fate through a public referendum. Supporters argue the development could generate substantial tax revenue, stimulate tourism, and create thousands of jobs. Opponents, however, have raised concerns about social consequences and urban planning challenges. The proposal now awaits the governor’s decision.

Tomakomai, a major port city on the southern coast of Hokkaido, has renewed its efforts to develop an integrated resort (IR) that would include a casino, hotels, and large-scale tourism infrastructure. The municipal government has initiated the search for an advisory partner to guide the “Hokkaido Tomakomai International Resort Concept,” a strategic plan aimed at positioning the city for Japan’s next round of IR licensing. With a consultancy budget of about Rs 4.4 crore, officials are preparing feasibility studies and investor outreach while assessing economic benefits.

India’s industrial decarbonization efforts received a major boost as INOX Air Products (INOXAP), the country’s leading manufacturer of industrial, medical, and electronic gases, commissioned its first green hydrogen production facility in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. Located at Asahi India Glass Ltd’s (AIS) newly launched float glass plant, this milestone project represents a significant shift in the application of clean energy within traditional manufacturing sectors.