Daily Current Affairs for CAT, XAT & MBA GDPI – January 27, 2026
Indian Economy & Policy
Budget 2026: Government seen easing fiscal grip amid global headwinds
Budget 2026 will likely focus on supporting the economy amidst global challenges. Rating agencies suggest a cautious approach to fiscal consolidation. Reforms, especially in deregulation, will be viewed favorably. Any deviation from fiscal discipline could negatively impact ratings. Experts anticipate continued strong economic growth for India.
ET Graphics: Women and transgender subscribers expand India’s NPS footprint
As an expert panel reviews the NPS investment framework, women are increasingly powering the scheme's subscriber base. Female subscriptions outpaced male growth in several states, with Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh leading in overall female subscribers. This trend highlights widening participation and inclusion within the NPS.
Indian Politics & Governance

People don’t perceive U.N. as organisation that delivers on international peace, security: India
India said the international rule of law should not be weaponised to question state sovereignty and interfere in the internal affairs of states

Not normal to tolerate Pakistan’s continued use of terror as instrument of state policy: India
India’s Permanent Representative to the U.N., Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, delivered a sharp response to comments made by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the U.N., Asim Iftikhar Ahmad
Geopolitics (India Focus)

Trump's about-face in Minnesota after Pretti's death latest in pattern of sudden shifts
About-face comes after the January 24 shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal agents raised doubts, including from some Republicans, over how the Trump administration has gone about aggressively deporting migrants and confronting protesters opposed to the policy.

How Venezuela’s oil collapse is plunging Cuba into energy and food crisis
Barred from credit markets and stripped of subsidised Venezuelan oil, Cuba is sliding deeper into a foreign exchange crisis that is crippling its economy
Indian Stock Market & IPOs
Light at end of tunnel for Indian markets, says Aditya Kondawar; recommends gradual deployment in mid and smallcaps
Indian markets are nearing a turning point after a volatile period. Key events like the EU Free Trade Agreement and the Union Budget are expected to boost recovery. Investors are advised to systematically invest cash reserves, focusing on mid and smallcap stocks. This approach prioritizes discipline over emotional decisions, creating opportunities for patient investors.
Why owning sector leaders could be a smarter core bet in 2026, Axis Mutual Fund’s Karthik Kumar explains
Axis Mutual Fund's Karthik Kumar highlights how their new Sector Leaders Index Fund addresses portfolio gaps by offering diversified exposure to top companies across 21 sectors. This rules-based approach aims to reduce concentration risk and capture leadership, providing a resilient core holding for investors navigating an earnings-led market in 2026.
Marketing, Brands & Consumer Trends

European automakers accelerate India localisation ahead of EU trade deal
Companies such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, UK-based Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), Renault, and BMW already assemble imported kits and sell cars and SUVs in India at a low tariff of 16.5%, while the proposed trade pact reportedly aims to bring down tariffs from 110% to 40%.

Beyond the tailpipe: Centre moves to map life-cycle carbon emissions of all vehicles, end debate on norms
The draft Automotive Mission Plan 2047 is set to revolutionize India’s auto sector by introducing life-cycle analysis of vehicle emissions. This strategic move aims to ensure cleaner transport solutions and competitive advancements in the industry.
Sports (Business & Governance)

Indians claim five gold medals in WTT Youth Star Contender
Akash Rajavelu and Rishaan Chattopadhyay came first in U-15 boys’ doubles.

BCCI mourns former president I.S. Bindra’s death
The BCCI mourns the loss of a true stalwart of Indian cricket administration,” BCCI president said