🏦 Govt sells off LIC stake to meet norms

The Indian government initiated an Offer for Sale (OFS) to divest 6.5% of its 96.5% stake in LIC. This move was conducted via OFS starting August 4th for institutional investors, with retail bidding on August 5th. The sale aims to help LIC meet SEBI's 10% public shareholding norm deadline of May 16, 2027. Full subscription could bring ₹31,000 crore to the government's disinvestment kitty, aiding its FY27 target. The government exercised the green shoe option due to the overwhelming response from institutional investors.

📱 OnePlus 15 deal drops during Amazon Great Freedom Sale

The OnePlus 15 will be available at a discounted price during the upcoming Amazon Great Freedom Sale. This flagship handset will be available through Amazon, starting on August 7th. The 12GB + 256GB variant is listed for Rs. 81,999, down from an MRP of Rs. 89,999. This sale offers extra savings like 10% off with HDFC Bank cards and 5% cashback with Amazon Pay ICICI Bank cards. Buyers can also look forward to no-cost EMI options during the sale event. 📱

🇨🇳 China targets US firms post-FCC, Xinjiang moves

China is reportedly targeting various US firms and restricting drone exports following recent actions by the FCC and events in Xinjiang. This strategic move aims to impact American technology companies and international trade flows. Specifically, the actions are connected to the FCC's regulatory shifts and the ongoing situation in Xinjiang province. The government is tightening controls on sensitive technological exports to US entities. Further details on the scope and impact of these restrictions are expected in the coming weeks. 🇨🇳

🔋 Yamaha-backed River Mobility secures $120M funding

Indian EV startup River Mobility has successfully raised $120 million in a significant funding round. This investment was secured with support from Yamaha, marking a major boost for the company. The funding round was announced recently, providing substantial capital for its operations. River Mobility aims to accelerate its expansion across the domestic and international EV markets. The company plans to leverage this capital for R&D and scaling its production capabilities. 🔋

🤝 Meta meets IT Minister at Rail Bhawan

Meta officials recently visited Rail Bhawan for a crucial high-level meeting. The gathering included senior representatives from Meta and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Specific details regarding the agenda or exact date were not provided in the report. This meeting is significant for discussing the tech giant's operations in India. Further updates on the outcomes of this discussion are expected soon.

💸 Flagship phone deals are live on Amazon now

Amazon has dropped prices on several flagship mobiles, making them more accessible to buyers. This includes the OnePlus 15, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro Max, and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8. For instance, the Galaxy Z Fold 8, originally ₹1,79,999, can be effectively purchased around ₹1.62 lakh with cashback. These discounts are significant considering the recent rise in component costs across the industry. Shoppers can leverage these deals before the major Amazon Great Freedom Sale in August. 📱

🏛️ CJP demands PM audit over BJP funding

CJP has publicly demanded a comprehensive audit of the Prime Minister’s office. This demand specifically targets the disclosure of funding received by the BJP party. The protest stems from ongoing controversies surrounding political funding practices. CJP insists that transparency in financial dealings is crucial for good governance. Further action is awaited as the political standoff continues in the capital. 🏛️

👑 Danish Princess Joins Military, Skips Pay

Princess Isabella of Denmark has started an 11-month military service, becoming the first woman in the Danish royal family to complete full military conscription. She reported for duty at Antvorskov Barracks in Slagelse on August 3rd, after graduating from high school. Isabella has chosen to serve without receiving the usual salary or daily allowances during this period. This comes as Denmark expands its armed forces in response to increasing European security concerns. Later this month, some recruits will be deployed to Greenland to support operational duties. 👑

🌟 R Madhavan shines in 'GDN' biopic

The film 'GDN', a biographical drama about inventor G.D. Naidu, received positive buzz after its special premiere screening. The movie stars R Madhavan and is set in India, with the theatrical release scheduled for August 7. Early reviews highlight Madhavan's powerful performance as the inventor and the film's emotional core. Viewers appreciated the tribute to G. D. Naidu's legacy and his battles against authority. The film, directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, aims to bring India's 'Edison' to the big screen.

📈 LIC OFS sees big retail investor hype

The Life Insurance Corporation's Offer for Sale garnered a strong response from retail investors on Wednesday. This demand was recorded in the retail portion of the sale, taking place in India. As of 3:43 pm, the retail category received bids for 5.76 crore shares against a base issue size of 3.16 crore shares. This sale is part of the government's push to meet minimum public shareholding requirements early. The full 6.5% stake sale could bring in around Rs 31,000 crore for the government's disinvestment fund. 💰

✈️ Air India turbulence incident in Phuket-Delhi route

A flight experienced significant turbulence on the Air India route from Phuket to Delhi. Thirteen passengers sustained injuries during the incident, and they have since been discharged from the hospital. The event occurred on a specific date which was not detailed in the report provided. Four crew members are currently still undergoing treatment following the turbulence. Further updates on the crew's recovery are expected in the coming days.