INDIA
Mumbai Rains 2025: Waterlogging Shuts Subways, Roads & Highways | Traffic Chaos, Police Rescue | 4K
Heavy rains in Mumbai on August 19, 2025, caused severe waterlogging across the city, leading to massive traffic disruptions. Key subways including Andheri and Poisar were shut, while Elphinstone bridge and Mankhurd Tunnel were closed due to flooding. Major routes like the Western Express Highway and Eastern Freeway were heavily affected, leaving commuters stranded. Police rescued schoolchildren trapped in waterlogged areas such as Gandhi Market in Sion, while tree falls and malfunctioning signals added to the chaos. Several areas including Lokhandwala, Veera Desai Road, and Kings Circle Matunga reported 2–3 feet of flooding.
BUSINESS
Wall Street ends on muted note ahead of Jackson Hole summit, retailers' earnings | 4K
Wall Street's main indexes closed on a subdued note on Monday (August 18), after struggling for direction while investors awaited a raft of corporate earnings reports from major retailers for more signs about the state of the economy and the Federal Reserve's annual symposium in Jackson Hole. Walmart, Home Depot and Target, among others, are set to report results this week and are likely to indicate how trade uncertainty and inflation expectations have affected U.S. consumers. Markets also hope that the Fed's Jackson Hole, Wyoming, conference between August 21 and 23, where Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to speak, could offer more clarity on the economic outlook and the central bank's policy framework.
BUSINESS
Can Nifty Bulls Finally Break The 25,000 Barrier On A Closing Basis? | Opening Bell Live
The Nifty 50 staged a strong performance on August 18, rising 1 percent on buzz around GST reforms. The index opened with a robust gap-up and is trading above key moving averages, supported by bullish momentum indicators. Experts say as long as it defends the gap between 24,670–24,850, the index could advance toward 25,000 and even 25,250, while the 24,700–24,600 zone remains strong support and 24,337 is seen as the near-term bottom. Global cues remain mixed—Asian markets are cautious with the Nikkei retreating, GIFT Nifty signals a mildly positive start, and Wall Street ended lower ahead of Jackson Hole and retail earnings. Meanwhile, geopolitical headlines are in focus with Zelenskyy signaling readiness for talks with Putin, followed by potential trilateral discussions involving Trump. Stocks in action today include Vodafone Idea, Trent, and Vedanta. Catch Nandita Khemka in conversation with Ajit Mishra, SVP Technical Research at Religare Broking, and market expert Ambareesh Baliga for insights and strategies.
WORLD
AI Startup Perplexity Makes Waves With $34.5B Chrome Acquisition Bid | N18G
Last week, AI search engine Perplexity, led by CEO Aravind Srinivas, made an unsolicited \$34.5 billion bid to buy Google Chrome, despite having a valuation of only \$18 billion. This raised skepticism, as Chrome is not for sale, and legal proceedings around a potential breakup of Google are still ongoing. If Chrome were ever spun off, analysts believe it would be valued much higher, and major players like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Apple would likely outbid Perplexity. Chrome dominates the global browser market with over 66% share and 3.5 billion users, making it highly valuable for its user data. Meanwhile, Perplexity and others are launching AI-powered "Agentic" browsers, though their subscription-only model limits adoption. Many see Perplexity’s bid as a strategic move to gain attention and attract investors, rather than a serious acquisition attempt. It highlights the company’s ambition but also its need to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
BUSINESS
Lithium ion Cells, rare earth free motors: Bhavish Aggarwal's make in India plans for Ola Electric
Founder and CEO Bhavish Aggarwal is convinced that success in the electric vehicle (EV) sector hinges on a technology-driven, vertically integrated approach, much like Elon Musk’s Tesla and China’s BYD. In response to the increasing complexities of global supply chains exacerbated by geopolitics, Ola Electric is manufacturing everything in-house—from battery cells and rare earth-free motors to scooters themselves. The Ola Gigafactory in Krishnagiri boasts a production capacity of 5GWh, capable of producing between 1 lakh and 2 lakh cells daily, with around 40 cells required for each scooter. During the visit, Aggarwal guided Moneycontrol’s Chandra R Srikanth through the intricate cell manufacturing process, while candidly addressing questions on market share, user feedback, competitive dynamics and lessons drawn from the public markets.
BUSINESS
GST 2.0 Sparks Relief Rally, Nifty Reclaims 25,000 Briefly; Autos Lead The Charge| Closing Bell Live
GST 2.0 sparks hope rally; Nifty tests 25,000. Mid & smallcaps outperform; Market Breadth At 2:1. Autos, consumer durables lead the charge. FMCG, realty among gainers. IT & Pharma under selling pressure. Catch Nandita Khemka and Yatin Mota as they discuss stocks on their radar.
WORLD
Hong Kong Media Tycoon Jimmy Lai’s Trial Resumes Amid Health Concerns After Court Adjournment | N18G
The national security trial of Hong Kong pro-democracy businessman Jimmy Lai resumed on August 18 after a temporary pause due to his health issues. Lai, 77, experienced heart palpitations, prompting the court to adjourn so he could receive medication and be fitted with a heart monitor. He has been held in solitary confinement for over 1,700 days, and concerns about his deteriorating health have been raised by his son and supporters. Outside the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts, citizens expressed worry, with one supporter, Lucille, noting her concern after hearing about his condition. Lai, a British citizen, founded the Apple Daily newspaper, which was forced to shut down in June 2021 following a police raid and asset freeze. He faces charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and conspiracy to publish seditious material, to which he has pleaded not guilty. His national security trial began in December 2023 and continues.
WORLD
Hurricane Erin Downgraded: Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands Brace for Impact | N18G
Hurricane Erin, the first major storm of the 2025 Atlantic season, has been downgraded to a Category 3 hurricane with sustained winds of 125 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center Despite the downgrade, Erin continues to pose life-threatening risks across the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and parts of the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the U.S. East Coast231. The storm’s outer bands have already caused flooding, downed trees, and power outages in Puerto Rico. Forecasts warn of 3 to 6 inches of rainfall, with isolated areas receiving up to 8 inches, increasing the risk of mudslides, landslides, and urban flooding Erin’s path is expected to shift northward by Monday, skirting the Turks and Caicos Islands and southeastern Bahamas, before moving offshore near Bermuda later in the week. Coastal regions from North Carolina to Atlantic Canada are advised to monitor the storm closely due to potential rip currents and strong winds
BUSINESS
GST Overhaul Set To Ignite A Relief Rally? Trump-Zelenskyy Meet In Focus| Opening Bell Live
Indian markets are poised to kick off the week on a strong footing as the GIFT Nifty is signalling a gap up start this morning. The Nifty 50 saw rangebound trading on August 14, though it extended its upmove for another session. The index remained within Tuesday's range and sustained above the 100-day EMA for the last two days. According to experts, as long as it trades below the 50-day EMA (24,813), consolidation is expected to continue, with immediate support at 24,465, followed by a key support level at 24,350. On the flip side, the index is expected to face a hurdle at 24,700. If it sustains above this level, 24,800 will be the next level to watch, followed by the 25,000 zone. The centre’s proposed GST overhaul may provide the much needed booster shot to the bulls. Auto stocks and consumer durables will be in focus. Meanwhile all eyes will be on Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy after his summit with Putin ended without a peace deal. Catch Nandita Khemka in conversation with Rajesh Palviya, Senior Vice President Research (Head Technical & Derivatives) at Axis Securities and Feroze Azeez, Joint CEO, Anand Rathi Wealth
WORLD
Israel says it has struck Houthi ‘energy infrastructure site’ in Yemen | N18G
Israel's military said on Sunday (August 17, 2025) it struck an "energy infrastructure site" in Yemen used by the Houthi rebels, the latest action against the Iran-backed group which has launched attacks at Israel throughout the Gaza war.
WORLD
Israel Vs. Hamas: Hostage Families Lead National Strike to End Gaza War | N18G
Families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza are calling for a nationwide strike to pressure the government into securing a ceasefire and hostage release. With thousands of businesses and citizens joining protests, the movement is gaining momentum across Israel. This segment highlights the emotional appeals, political stakes, and growing public disruption.
WORLD
Deadly Flash Floods Create Havoc In Pakistan, rescue ops on | N18G
More than 300 people have died in northwest Pakistan after two days of heavy rains and flash floods, local officials said on Saturday (August 16). The deluge hit the remote mountainous northern part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region, with cloudbursts, flash floods, lightning strikes and landslides, in the deadliest downpour of this year’s monsoon season
WORLD
Nationwide Protests Challenge Trump’s Redistricting Push in Texas | N18G
On August 16, pro-democracy activists and labor groups held rallies across the U.S. opposing the Trump administration’s support for redrawing Texas’ congressional map to favor Republicans. Demonstrators in cities like Austin, Chicago, Oakland, and New York called for fair elections and condemned partisan manipulation. Texas Democrats blocked the vote during a special session, while California’s Governor proposed a counter-redistricting plan to offset Republican gains.
WORLD
Hondurans Unite in Nationwide Prayer Ahead of Tense Presidential Elections | N18G
On August 16, thousands of Hondurans gathered in over 50 cities for an “extensive prayer for Honduras,” calling for peace and fair elections ahead of the November 30 presidential vote. Organized by the Episcopal Conference and Evangelical Fraternity, the event comes amid rising political tensions and public distrust, as major parties exchange accusations in the lead-up to the polls.
BUSINESS
This Couple Moved from Mumbai to Navi Mumbai for Better Standard of Living | The Tenant
WORLD
Trump-Putin Meeting In Alaska: Key Takeaways From The Talks | N18G
U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson in Alaska for a closely watched summit. The encounter, filled with ceremonial optics like red carpet treatment and military flyovers, marked Putin’s symbolic return to the global stage after years of isolation following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite projecting warmth and calling the talks “extremely productive,” no concrete agreements were reached. Both leaders emphasized a general “understanding,” particularly on Ukraine, though Kyiv was excluded from the talks. Putin claimed the war wouldn’t have happened under Trump, while Trump reiterated that “there’s no deal until there’s a deal.” The summit broke from traditional diplomatic protocols, with last-minute changes to the format and speaking arrangements. Putin dominated the joint statement, speaking twice as long as Trump. Both sides hinted at future meetings, with Putin inviting Trump to Moscow. The summit ends with optics, not outcomes — and Ukraine still at war.
WORLD
Alaska: Putin Sees Meet A Step Towards Ukraine Peace; Trump Says Key Issue Still Unresolved | N18G
On August 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a summit aimed at addressing key issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and the broader state of U.S.-Russia relations. Putin expressed optimism that the agreements reached during the meeting could serve as a foundation for resolving the Ukraine crisis and restoring pragmatic, business-like ties between the two countries. He emphasized the potential for cooperation in sectors like energy, technology, space exploration, and the Arctic. At a joint press conference where no questions were taken, Putin stated his belief that peace in Ukraine could be achieved soon if both sides follow through. Meanwhile, Trump reported that while many points were agreed upon, one major issue remained unresolved. He described it as the most significant point but remained hopeful that a resolution would be reached. Trump made his remarks later from Anchorage, Alaska, highlighting continued diplomatic efforts despite some remaining challenges.
WORLD
Alaska Summit: Putin Sees Agreements as Key to Ukraine Peace, U.S.-Russia Relations
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, August 15, that agreements from his summit with U.S. President Donald Trump could help resolve the Ukraine conflict and restore U.S.-Russia relations. He described the accords as a reference point for pragmatic, business-like ties and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in energy, technology, space, and the Arctic. Putin expressed optimism that this path could end the Ukraine war quickly. However, he did not provide details on what specific agreements were reached during the joint news conference, where no questions were taken.
WORLD
Trump-Putin Meeting In Alaska: Time, Schedule, Location And Subject Of Talks | N18G
On August 15, President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss Russia’s war in Ukraine, which began over three years ago. The summit, held at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, aims to explore peace possibilities, with Trump positioning himself as a mediator. The meeting will start at 11:30 a.m. Alaska time, followed by a bilateral lunch and a joint press conference. This will be Putin’s first visit to Alaska and his eighth to the U.S. as president. Trump has warned of “very severe consequences” if Putin does not agree to end the conflict and called the talks a “chess game,” acknowledging a 25% chance they may fail. Trump has proposed a land swap between Russia and Ukraine to resolve the war, but Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected any territorial concessions. European leaders emphasize that Zelenskyy must be included in any future negotiations. USA TODAY will provide live coverage of the summit.
BUSINESS
Nomination Process for Mutual Fund Investors: Secure Your Investments & Ensure Smooth Transmission
Welcome to MC Explains, an investor education initiative by Invesco Mutual Fund and Moneycontrol.com. In this episode, we unravel the critical but often overlooked process of nomination in mutual fund investments — a vital step to ensure your hard-earned money reaches the right hands smoothly, especially in unforeseen circumstances. Ensure your investments are protected and your family’s financial future is secure. Watch now to understand how to make the nomination process work for you!
BUSINESS
Nifty Snaps 6-Week Losing Streak; Ends Above 24,600| Closing Bell Live
Catch Yatin Mota in conversation with Ashish Bahety, Technical and Derivative Research Analyst, ProfitMart Securities to navigate market movement
BUSINESS
Can Nifty Break Past 24,700 To Power A Sustained Uptrend? | Opening Bell Live
The Nifty 50 extended its recovery on August 13, marking a third straight session of higher lows and closing 0.54% higher ahead of today’s weekly F&O expiry. The index reclaimed the 100-day EMA (24,589) — a positive signal — with this level now acting as immediate support, followed by Tuesday’s low of 24,465. As long as these supports hold, experts see room for an upward move toward 24,700 (immediate hurdle) and the crucial 24,800–24,850 zone in the coming sessions. Global cues are mixed, with GIFT Nifty indicating a muted start. Stocks in focus include Infosys, Jubilant Foodworks, and others, while JSW Cement makes its market debut today. Catch Nandita Khemka in conversation with Vipul Bhowar, Senior Director, Head of Equities, Waterfield Advisors and Chandan Taparia, Senior Vice President, Head - Derivatives & Technical Research, Motilal Oswal
BUSINESS
Nifty Clocks Triple-Digit Rally To Reclaim 24,600; Nykaa, Honasa & Paytm Shine| Closing Bell Live
Nifty reclaims 24,600; logs triple-digit upmove. Broader markets fare better; smallcap index up for 3rd day. NSE advance-decline ratio at 3:2. Autos, metals and pharma continue to do well. FMCG and PSU banks out of favour. Catch Nandita Khemka and Yatin Mota as they discuss stocks on their radar.
BUSINESS
NSDL shares see volatility after rally: What lies ahead?
NSDL share price: NSDL shares see volatility after rally: What lies ahead?
