Daily Current Affairs – January 20, 2026

A potential US-EU trade dispute could boost Indian exports as the EU seeks stronger ties with nations like India. With the US imposing tariffs on several European goods, the EU may expedite its free trade agreement talks with India. This could lead to a more favorable deal and faster ratification, presenting India as a stable trade partner amidst global uncertainties.

India and the European Union will announce the conclusion of free trade agreement negotiations at a summit on January 27. A security and defence partnership agreement will also be signed. EU leadership will attend India's Republic Day celebrations as chief guests. Negotiations for the trade pact resumed in 2022 and are in the final stages.

An order issued late on Monday (January 19, 2026), stated that Mr. Rao acted in an obscene manner which is unbecoming of a government servant and also causing embarrassment to the Government

From India, at least four Union Ministers— Ashwini Vaishnaw, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Pralhad Joshi, and K Rammohan Naidu — as well as six Chief Ministers are expected to be there, along with over 100 top CEOs from the country

Iran’s streets have largely been quiet for a week, authorities and social media posts indicated, since anti-government protests that began in late December were put down in three days of mass violence

Bharat Coking Coal says it will fund expansion and modernisation through internal cash flows despite its IPO being a pure OFS. The Coal India subsidiary targets over ₹2,000 crore annual profit, plans to double coal washing capacity, and expects up to 3x realisation from washed coal, with growth driven by rising steel demand.

As markets brace for 2026, Monarch Networth Capital CEO Gaurav Bhandari advises caution on speculative gold and silver rallies. He remains constructive on Indian equities, particularly PSU banks and defence, citing strong fundamentals and government support.

The RBI governor said the sector remains a key pillar of the formal financial system, particularly for small borrowers, local businesses and communities often outside the reach of large commercial banks.

Micro-drama platforms in India are balancing safety with rapid content release cycles to comply with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act.