Daily Current Affairs for CAT, XAT & MBA GDPI – January 26, 2026
Indian Economy & Policy
India to slash tariffs on cars to 40% in trade deal with EU, sources say
India is set to significantly reduce import duties on cars from the European Union. Tariffs will drop to 40% from as high as 110%. This move is part of a major free trade agreement expected soon. European automakers like Volkswagen and BMW will see easier market access. This pact aims to boost bilateral trade and Indian exports.
Canada holds firm on trade pivot as energy minister heads to India
Canada is pursuing a strategy to boost trade beyond the United States. Foreign Minister Anita Anand stated the nation will not be deterred by recent threats from the Trump administration. Canada aims to double its non-US exports within ten years. This diversification includes forging new trade relationships with countries like India.
Indian Politics & Governance
16th National Voters’ Day celebrated at Ripon Buildings
Certificates of appreciation and shields were presented to students who won competitions
Backroom Brief | AI, startups, health: Inside Akhilesh Yadav’s ‘Vision India’ roadshow
Geopolitics (India Focus)
Indian-origin man shot dead in Canada, police suspect targeted gang-linked attack
Police said Gill was known to them, and the shooting “appears to have a nexus to the British Columbia Gang conflict”; Shortly after the shooting, police located a vehicle engulfed in flames in Buxton Street.
Indian Stock Market & IPOs
Rupee may stay under pressure in the short term, but medium-term outlook better: Abhishek Goenka
The rupee may remain under pressure near 92 per dollar due to weak capital inflows, exporter stress and a rising current account deficit, says IFA Global’s Abhishek Goenka. However, he expects improvement in FY27 with the rupee averaging below 90, aided by valuation support, selective RBI intervention, stable inflation and potential trade deal triggers.
India set for earnings-led comeback in 2026, foreign flows may return, says Timothy Moe of Goldman Sachs
Goldman Sachs’ Timothy Moe expects India to stage an earnings-led comeback in 2026, with MSCI India earnings growth seen at 15%. Valuations are expensive but defensible, limiting upside from re-rating. A recovery in earnings, domestic consumption, financials and policy support could help revive foreign investor interest later in the year.
Marketing, Brands & Consumer Trends
Bank holiday today: Are banks closed on Monday, 26 January, for Republic Day 2026? Check RBI calendar here
Bank holiday today: The RBI has announced a total of 16 holidays for all public and private banks across India in January 2026, including the State Bank of India (SBI). Check if this includes also today…
Bank holiday on January 26: Are banks open or closed tomorrow for Republic Day? Check RBI calendar
India will celebrate Republic Day on 26 January, Monday, which is why banks will be closed. However, digital banking services remain available for transactions.
Sports (Business & Governance)
Hockey India League: Ranchi Royals beat Hyderabad Toofans to set up summit clash vs Kalinga Lancers
When IS Bindra stayed up all night to ensure stadium was ready for India-Pakistan game after rain