The average long-term US mortgage rate has climbed for the fifth consecutive week, reaching its highest level in nearly seven months and adding to affordability challenges for homebuyers during the crucial spring housing season, according to AP.The benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 6.46% from 6.38% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said. A…
The government has introduced a series of measures to support exporters facing disruptions from the ongoing Gulf conflict, with key sectors such as gems and jewellery, rice and pharmaceuticals under pressure, PTI reported.At an inter-ministerial briefing, Director General of Foreign Trade Lav Aggarwal said the commerce ministry is working with insurers and banks to address…
The Reserve Bank of India has allowed both residents and non-residents to exchange Indian rupee notes at foreign exchange counters located in departure halls of international airports beyond immigration or customs checkpoints, according to PTI. Earlier, such counters were permitted only to buy Indian rupees from non-residents and sell foreign currency to them. “On a…
In a move aimed at shielding passengers from sharp airfare surges, the government has capped monthly increases in aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices for domestic flights at 25%, according to Reuters.The decision comes amid volatility in global energy markets linked to the ongoing Iran crisis, which has pushed up fuel costs and added pressure on…
NEW DELHI: In a U-turn, the civil aviation ministry Thursday put on hold its directive for airlines to offer at least 60% seats free of charge. Under intense cost side pressure since the Iran war began, airlines had warned this move to curb ancillary revenue will lead to additional fare hikes.The aviation ministry had on…
As the US observes Good Friday on April 3 ahead of Easter Sunday on April 5, most essential services will continue without disruption since the day is not designated as a federal holiday.In the Christian calendar, Good Friday marks the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ and has long been associated with mourning, penance and…
US stock markets declined sharply on Thursday, while oil prices surged, after President Donald Trump vowed to continue military action against Iran and did not provide a clear timeline for de-escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, according to AP.The S&P 500 fell 1.1%, with nearly three out of every four stocks in the…
New Delhi: Centre will make three major NH stretches passing through Delhi largely signal free to reduce congestion and travel time, the road transport ministry informed the Lok Sabha on Thursday. While the NH stretches from Ashram to Badarpur, Mehrauli to Gurgaon and Punjabi Bagh to Tikri Border will be mostly signal free by building…
The labour codes aim to simplify and consolidate India’s complex labour law framework. India’s new labour codes have introduced a structured distinction between the terms “employee” and “worker”. While all workers are employees, not all employees are workers. This distinction is more than just terminology – it determines the applicability of several statutory benefits and…
The government has asked oil refineries to divert part of the feedstock used for cooking gas (LPG) towards petrochemical units, as industries grapple with acute raw material shortages triggered by supply disruptions amid the West Asia conflict, according to PTI.The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on April 1 directed refiners to allocate a portion…