Times of India

Businesses face significant cost management challenges due to ongoing West Asia conflict. Commodity inflation and freight charges create persistent planning uncertainties for companies. This instability may lead to postponed capital deployment and fewer new job additions. Consumers can expect widespread price increases across various products and services. Companies are considering further pricing interventions to manage margin impacts.

DMK fiercely responded to Rahul Gandhi's criticism of supporting a bill to increase Lok Sabha seats. Senior DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran accused Congress of betraying trust for ministerial positions. The BJP hopes DMK's anger with Congress will aid its legislative agenda. DMK has indicated openness to the bill after studying its impact. Rahul Gandhi's comments acknowledge the possibility of DMK revising its stance on the bill.

The Supreme Court criticized Punjab for its resistance to implementing an old decree. Attorney General Venkataramani proposed a cashless settlement for power dues. Himachal and Haryana agreed to the proposal, while Punjab raised objections. The court warned Punjab of consequences if it fails to comply. A final decision is expected on August 12.

In the competition for the Cleveland Browns' quarterback position, Shedeur Sanders is reportedly taking the lead, demonstrating superior performance metrics compared to Deshaun Watson in early practice sessions. Watson has been hindered by interception issues during camp. However, wide receiver Jerry Jeudy appears to support Watson as the preferred starter. The coaching staff will have the final say in this pivotal decision.

With several medal-rich sports missing from the programme because of financial constraints in hosting the Games — after the event was moved from Victoria in Australia to Glasgow — expectations were lower than in previous editions. Even so, India found success in new events, celebrated new athletes and produced several landmark performances.

A woman was forced to lick sputum by a village panchayat in Begusarai. She had alleged rape by a co-villager on multiple occasions. The local council instead accused her of an illicit relationship. An FIR was lodged after a video of the incident went viral. Police are investigating the video and searching for the rape accused.

Social media is increasingly shaping crime motives and escalating conflicts. Young offenders are particularly vulnerable to the addictive pursuit of online validation. Violent incidents are often sparked by virtual disputes and online comments. Experts note social media amplifies existing conflicts and rewards sensational behavior. Law enforcement agencies are actively tracking and cracking down on social media-related crimes.

Abhijeet Dipke stated his US education was funded by a scholarship and loan. He also mentioned the Cockroach Janta Party will use crowdfunding for transparency. RTI activist Amit Tiwari questioned Dipke's father's financial capacity for US education. Tiwari filed complaints with the Election Commission and tax authorities regarding the organization. He also requested an inquiry into the financial assets of Dipke's father.

Students in Jharkhand continue protests over alleged recruitment exam irregularities. They demand a CBI probe into JPSC and JSSC examination discrepancies. Protesters have lost faith in the current CID investigation into the matter. They seek reforms in the recruitment process and action against responsible officials. The students warn of further escalation if their concerns are not addressed.

Five women died and four were injured by lightning strikes in Jharkhand's Ramgarh and Godda districts. Three women were killed in Ramgarh while sowing paddy, and two died in Godda. The India Meteorological Department forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms for the next four days. A yellow alert has been issued for isolated thunderstorms and heavy rain across several districts.

President Trump announced a halt to a threatened military strike against Iran for now. He cited requests from Iran and other nations for deal finalization. Diplomatic efforts are reportedly underway with mediators facilitating discussions between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, domestic political challenges and internal party criticism are growing for the President. Markets and allies closely watch these developments and policy shifts.

India is funding half the cost of deepwater oil and gas exploration wells. This new scheme aims to reduce reliance on imported energy supplies. The government will support sixty exploration wells over the next five years. This initiative encourages companies to explore previously avoided offshore areas. Shared infrastructure will also lower development costs for new discoveries.

Gold and silver prices are expected to trade within a narrow range this week. Investors await key US economic data, especially non-farm payrolls, for Fed policy direction. Purchasing managers' index data from major economies will also be closely monitored. Developments concerning the US-Iran conflict and crude oil supplies will influence sentiment. Analysts anticipate gold to trade between Rs 1.40-1.44 lakh per 10 grams.