Daily Current Affairs for CAT, XAT & MBA GDPI – January 15, 2026
Indian Economy & Policy
Hong Kong emerges key market for India's high-value exports
India's exports to Hong Kong are surging. Shipments of silver jewellery, electronics, and processed stones have seen substantial growth. Cut and polished diamonds are leading this increase. This trend highlights Hong Kong's growing importance as a trading hub for India. Diversification of exports is a key factor. Electronics and silver jewellery exports have more than doubled.
Wholesale inflation hits 8-month high of 0.8% in December
Wholesale prices have exited deflation. Inflation reached an eight-month high of 0.83% in December. This shift was driven by stable food prices and rising costs for manufactured goods. Retail inflation also saw an increase. Experts note base effects and stable prices contributed to the wholesale inflation rate. The commerce ministry highlighted increases in various manufacturing sectors.
Indian Politics & Governance
How are cryptocurrency exchanges in India vetting customers? | Explained
Cryptocurrency exchanges in India use a range of methods to verify their customers and prevent money-laundering and the financing of terrorism

Air India says flights overflying Iran will use alternative route, warns of delays
The company said in a statement that some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled
Geopolitics (India Focus)

The economic triggers for the protests in Iran
A collapsing rial, soaring inflation and years of sanctions have pushed Tehran into its largest unrest since 2022

Air India says flights overflying Iran will use alternative route, warns of delays
The company said in a statement that some Air India flights where currently rerouting is not possible are being cancelled
Indian Stock Market & IPOs
ETMarkets Smart Talk | Budget 2026 likely to be reform-focused, FII-friendly: Gaurav Bhandari of Monarch Networth
Budget 2026 is anticipated to focus on reforms and attract foreign investors. Measures like tax relief and regulatory clarity are expected to boost confidence amid global uncertainty. Domestic savings through SIPs will continue to support the market. Experts foresee moderate earnings growth and recommend PSU Banks and Defence sectors. India's economy is projected for strong growth driven by domestic consumption.
US Stocks| ETFs first, stock picks later: how Indians should invest in US markets
Indian investors in 2026 are advised a layered approach to US equities amidst geopolitical uncertainty. Building a core with low-cost US ETFs and selectively adding high-conviction stocks balances diversification with opportunities in growth themes like AI, while managing risk effectively.
Marketing, Brands & Consumer Trends

Pan-India promise, patchy payoff: Why many southern Hindi dubs are failing
A decade ago, they were hailed as a bridge between north and south India. But pan-India films have not quite lived up to that promise. The successes, few in number, are genuine blockbusters. But the failures—there are way too many of them—crash and burn ignominiously.

Small-budget regional films face streaming challenges despite increased demand for content
Smaller films in languages other than Hindi face challenges in securing streaming deals, with many remaining unsold due to limited interest and tight budgets. Producers are adapting by delaying projects and reducing costs.
Sports (Business & Governance)
HIL seeks Government support for better turnout in its last leg in Bhubaneswar

India Open | Sindhu seeks to be consistent after first round exit; Kidambi hopes to continue winning run