Day: 04/07/2025

In a dramatic and unprecedented move, India’s market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has barred U.S.-based quantitative trading giant Jane Street from accessing its securities markets. This is not just an isolated action against one firm—it represents a broader assertion of regulatory authority and a critical test of market transparency in India’s fast-growing financial sector.

The Allegations: Manipulation in Plain Sight

According to SEBI, Jane Street allegedly manipulated India’s major stock indexes—Bank Nifty and Nifty 50—to generate unlawful gains through options trading. This alleged “intra-day index manipulation” and “marking the close” strategy allowed the firm to influence price movements to its benefit, misleading the market and causing losses to smaller retail investors who were

Copper, often dubbed the "barometer of the global economy," has shown a notable upward trend this week. Prices on both the London Metal Exchange (LME) and the Shanghai Futures Exchange have posted modest gains, driven by a combination of economic signals and geopolitical speculation. But are these gains a reflection of genuine market optimism, or are traders bracing for impact from looming U.S. tariffs?

A Closer Look at the Numbers

Benchmark three-month copper on the LME rose around 0.8% this week, hovering near $9,825 per ton. In Shanghai, the metal gained over 1%, signaling a synchronized response across major markets. This performance would usually be cause for cheer among industrialists and investors—but the underlying reasons paint a more

In a historic and unprecedented move, Russia has officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan, becoming the first country in the world to do so. This bold diplomatic step has sent ripples through the international community and marks a potential turning point in global geopolitics.


Russia Becomes the First Country to Grant Official Recognition

Russia has formally acknowledged the Taliban-led administration by officially accrediting their appointed ambassador in Kabul. While countries like China, Pakistan, and a few others have maintained contact with the Taliban, none had granted full diplomatic recognition — until now.




Russian Interests: Security, Counterterrorism, and Trade

Along with recognition, Russia has signaled its intent to deepen cooperation with Afghanistan in key areas:

Counterterrorism and regional security

Combating narcotics smuggling

Economic partnerships in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and transportation


This recognition comes at a time

In May 2025, the United States witnessed a sharp and concerning increase in its trade deficit, raising serious questions about the health of its export sector and the overall balance of trade. A steep drop in exports coupled with steady imports has put pressure on America’s economic outlook and its position in the global marketplace.

Trade Deficit Surges to $71.5 Billion

According to official data, the U.S. trade deficit surged by 18.7% in May, reaching a staggering $71.5 billion. This means the country imported significantly more goods and services than it exported — a signal of imbalance that could weaken domestic production and job creation.

4% Decline in Exports: A Red Flag

The primary cause of this growing deficit is a 4% drop in exports. Key sectors such as industrial machinery, gold,