The Indian rupee weakened sharply by 49 paise to 93.32 against the US dollar in early trade, pressured by surging crude oil prices and a stronger American currency amid escalating geopolitical tensions. The dollar index rose 0.38% to 98.81, reflecting global demand for the greenback. Uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz after inconclusive US-Iran talks drove oil prices higher, intensifying inflation concerns. Additionally, foreign fund outflows from domestic equities added downward pressure on the currency. Forex traders cited heightened volatility, risk aversion, and energy market disruptions as key factors behind the rupee’s decline in early trading hours. (PC: Reuters)

India’s equity markets opened sharply lower after US-Iran talks collapsed, triggering a surge in crude oil prices above $100 per barrel. The BSE Sensex fell 1,613.09 points (2.08%) to 75,937.20, while the Nifty 50 declined 1.92% to 23,589. The Nifty Bank dropped 2.27%, reflecting broad-based selling pressure across sectors. The sharp market reaction underscores investor concerns over geopolitical instability and rising energy costs impacting inflation and economic outlook. Elevated crude prices and global uncertainty weighed heavily on sentiment, driving volatility in equities, currency movements, and broader financial markets during early trading hours. (PC: X)

A US court has allowed a pre-motion hearing in the SEC case against the Adani Group. Billionaire Gautam Adani and Sagar Adani have sought dismissal of the lawsuit. The case is linked to a 2021 bond issue by Adani Green Energy. The SEC alleges securities fraud and claims investors were misled. The Adanis denied the charges and said the US court has no jurisdiction. They argued the deal took place outside the US and involved no wrongdoing. They also said there is no proof of bribery. The court will now hold a hearing to decide if the case should move forward. (PC: Reuters)

Global markets surged after Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude fell sharply from $109.77 to $95.068 per barrel, while WTI dropped nearly $20, reflecting easing supply fears. Stocks rallied, bonds rose, and risk appetite returned as traders unwound panic positions. Oil prices had surged over 50% in March amid disruption fears after US-Israeli strikes and tanker route closures. The Strait, a key global energy chokepoint, carries nearly one-fifth of global oil. While markets welcomed the pause, analysts caution the relief may be temporary, with long-term stability dependent on ongoing negotiations. (PC: NDTV)

Campbell Wilson has resigned as chief executive of Air India but will continue in the role until a successor is appointed, according to reports. The leadership transition comes at a challenging time for the airline, which is facing mounting operational pressures, increasing costs and the likelihood of a significant financial loss this year. Despite stepping down, Wilson’s interim continuation is expected to ensure stability during the transition period. The development raises questions about the airline’s strategic direction as it navigates financial strain and operational hurdles, with management changes adding to uncertainty around its near-term performance and long-term turnaround plans. (PC: X)

Fresh reports say Oracle has started large layoffs, hitting workers in India hard. Many employees got termination emails between 5 and 6 am without warning. Some said access was cut soon after. Reports suggest about 30,000 jobs may be lost globally, with nearly 12,000 in India. The company has not confirmed numbers. One employee wrote, “Just got an email at 5 am over 20 years of service.” Another said, “6 am on the nose.” Oracle said roles became “redundant” due to changes. The layoffs come as the company shifts focus to AI investments. (PC: India Today)

IndiGo has appointed William Walsh as its new chief executive officer, replacing Pieter Elbers. The airline said the move is subject to regulatory approvals. Walsh is currently Director General of IATA and will join by August 3, 2026. He earlier led British Airways and IAG. IndiGo chairman Vikram Singh Mehta called him an “exceptional global aviation leader”. He said Walsh’s experience will help the airline grow in a competitive market. Walsh said he is “delighted to lead IndiGo” and praised its strong foundation. He will oversee strategy, operations and growth plans as the airline expands. (PC: HT)

The Indian rupee has become the worst-performing currency in Asia, falling over 4% against the US dollar since January 2026. It has dropped to record lows near ₹90–93 per dollar. Analysts said strong dollar demand and foreign investor outflows have added pressure. High crude oil prices have also hurt the rupee, as India depends heavily on imports. The Federal Reserve keeping interest rates high has strengthened the dollar. Experts said banks may unwind large dollar positions, which could increase supply and support the rupee in the near term. Other Asian currencies, including the Thai baht, have also weakened. (PC: Business Today)

Swiss food giant Nestlé reported a major theft of 12 tons of KitKat bars during transit in Europe, involving over 413,000 units of a new product range. The truck, travelling from Italy to Poland, disappeared en route and remains untraced. Authorities are investigating the incident with supply chain partners. While the company warned the stolen stock could enter unofficial markets and potentially affect availability ahead of Easter, it later clarified that overall supply remains stable and there are no consumer safety concerns. The unusual “chocolate heist” has drawn attention due to its scale and timing during peak seasonal demand.

Stock markets closed sharply lower on March 30, with heavy losses in banking shares pulling indices down. The Sensex dropped 1,635 points, while the Nifty fell below 22,400. Vinod Nair of Geojit Investments said markets remained cautious due to global tensions, rising oil prices, and continued foreign investor outflows. He added, "Banking stocks were among the key laggards" after RBI restrictions on banks’ foreign exchange positions. The move aimed to support the rupee but led to declines in major lenders. Analysts said valuations look better after the fall, but earnings outlook remains uncertain. Oil price swings and rupee weakness may increase cost pressures. (PC: India Today)