6 minutes ago

Crisil reported a sharp rise in its financial performance for the first quarter of the current fiscal, with net profit increasing nearly 46 per cent year-on-year. The rating agency also recorded strong growth in total income, supported by steady demand for its risk and analytics services. While the company highlighted resilience in business operations, it flagged rising global uncertainties that could impact India's economic outlook. Crisil maintained a base case GDP growth estimate of 7.1 per cent for the fiscal, with risks tilted to the downside if geopolitical disruptions continue.Read more

36 minutes ago

New Zealand's housing market recorded a slight decline in prices and sales in the past month, reflecting softer demand amid external economic pressures. Data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand showed a drop in both median house prices and transaction volumes compared to the previous month and the same period last year. While the Reserve Bank's decision to hold interest rates steady has offered some support, market conditions remain uneven across regions. Broader global factors, including geopolitical tensions and rising fuel costs, have continued to influence buyer sentiment and overall housing activity.Read more

1 hour ago

The Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, in collaboration with TBS Education, will host the ninth International Conference on the Future of Aviation and Aerospace (FOAA). The event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and academicians to discuss sector growth, infrastructure needs, manufacturing and emerging technologies. As part of a broader executive education initiative, the conference aims to address talent gaps and strengthen industry-academia collaboration. With participation from key aviation stakeholders, discussions are expected to focus on long-term sector development and India's growing role in global aviation.Read more

1 hour ago

The 23rd edition of the CREDAI MCHI Thane Property Expo concluded after recording 20,467 visitors and facilitating 234 spot bookings across residential, commercial and retail segments. The three-day event featured over 100 RERA-approved projects from 40+ developers, with demand concentrated in the INR 55 lakh to INR 2.25 crore range. Key micro-markets such as Ghodbunder Road, Kolshet, Pokhran and Majiwada saw strong traction. Banks processed 398 loan applications, reporting higher sanction rates due to on-site facilitation. The event also drew interest from NRIs and investors, supported by infrastructure developments including metro expansion and the proposed high-speed rail corridor.Read more

2 hours ago

Equity Residential has reached a settlement with plaintiffs in an antitrust class action linked to RealPage's rental pricing practices. The company will pay USD 56 million into a settlement fund to resolve all claims. It has also indicated that it will increase its loss contingency reserve, which will be reflected in its first-quarter 2026 financial results. This adjustment is expected to impact its reported earnings and funds from operations. The case is part of broader scrutiny of algorithm-based rent-setting systems used by large residential landlords across the United States.Read more

2 hours ago

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) recently hosted a senior delegation from Andhra Pradesh comprising Vice-Chairpersons of 18 Urban Development Authorities as part of a capacity-building programme focused on urban governance and infrastructure planning. The visit aimed to study MMRDA's regional development framework, including its financial structuring, land management systems, and transport-led growth model. Discussions highlighted data-driven planning, PPP frameworks, and integrated urban development across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The delegation examined large-scale infrastructure execution and governance practices, acknowledging MMRDA's structured approach to sustainable metropolitan growth and its growing relevance as a model for other states.Read more

3 hours ago

State-owned NBCC Ltd has sold around 14 lakh sq ft of commercial space in South Delhi through an e-auction process, with the total transaction value reported at approximately INR 5,779 crore. The development is part of Bharat Business Park in Sarojini Nagar, New Delhi, executed on behalf of the government. NBCC will earn a marketing fee of 1% on the overall sale value. The proceeds from such asset monetisation activities are being directed towards redevelopment projects of government residential colonies, which remain a key focus area under its project management mandate.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

3 hours ago

The Bombay High Court has ruled that approvals granting higher floor area ratio (FAR) for real estate projects will remain conditional on the outcome of an ongoing legal case. The court clarified that while authorities may process and grant such permissions, they will not attain finality until the matter is adjudicated. The decision has implications for redevelopment and high-density projects, where additional FAR directly influences project viability and scale. The ruling comes amid disputes over planning norms and regulatory compliance, with developers and authorities seeking clarity on permissible construction limits. The case highlights the intersection of urban planning regulations and judicial oversight in Mumbai's development framework.Read more

Bangalore News Desk

4 hours ago

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has requested a special grant of INR 6,000 crore from the Centre to improve Bengaluru's infrastructure, as part of an 18-point memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposal highlights the need to address pressure on urban systems due to Krapid growth. The state has also sought the release of pending Finance Commission funds, including INR 5,495 crore. The request reflects ongoing efforts to secure central support for mobility, civic upgrades and key project approvals in India's leading technology hub.Read more

4 hours ago

US-based banking technology firm Candescent has expanded its India operations by opening a 30,000 sq ft technology centre in Hyderabad with a seating capacity of 300, as part of its ongoing workforce and capability expansion. The company, which has offices in Mumbai and Bengaluru, has hired around 400 employees over the past year and plans further recruitment across senior and mid-level roles. India now accounts for nearly half of Candescent's 2,000-strong global workforce and serves as a key hub for engineering, product development, and AI initiatives. While its client base remains largely in the United States, the India operations are focused on talent, technology development, and supporting global delivery capabilities.Read more

5 hours ago

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has issued property tax notices to residents of around 700 economically weaker section (EWS) homes that were demolished over a year ago, raising concerns over billing practices. The affected properties are located in Pragya Nagar, a government-subsidised housing colony comprising 44 buildings that were vacated and demolished due to structural concerns. Despite the demolition and displacement of nearly 3,000 residents, tax demands for FY 2024-25 and 2025-26 have been raised. Residents, currently living in rented accommodation without financial assistance, have questioned the continued levy on non-existent structures. The development highlights gaps in municipal record updates and redevelopment timelines.Read more

Bangalore News Desk

5 hours ago

Sowparnika Projects is in advanced discussions to raise INR 500 crore to fund its expansion across South India, with plans to develop around 5.5 million sq ft over the next 18-24 months. The Bengaluru-based developer is targeting a near doubling of its revenue from around INR 850 crore to INR 1,500 crore by FY27. The capital raise is expected to be backed by institutional investors and will support growth across key markets including Bengaluru, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The company operates in the mid and upper-mid residential segments, with a significant share of demand coming from first-time homebuyers.Read more

6 hours ago

The Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai is preparing for its first major refurbishment since opening in 1999, with plans indicating an 18-month renovation period. A staff member confirmed that the property will remain closed during this phase, while its owner Jumeirah stated that the work will be carried out in stages under interior architect Tristan Auer. The timing comes as tourism in the region has slowed amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the US-Israeli war with Iran. The hotel has also recently faced minor damage from debris linked to an intercepted drone incident earlier this year.Read more

6 hours ago

Ready Mix Concrete (RMC) manufacturers in Pune have collectively paused operations across nearly 300 plants, with the shutdown taking effect from midnight in the past week as part of a planned compliance and standardisation exercise. The sector, which supplies around 9 lakh cubic metres of concrete monthly and contributes an estimated INR 5,400 crore annually, stated that the move is not a strike but a structured initiative to upgrade safety, environmental and operational standards. The temporary halt is expected to impact construction activity across infrastructure and housing projects, with developers flagging potential delays and increased reliance on on-site concrete mixing. The industry has also reiterated the need for a unified regulatory framework and single-window clearances.Read more

7 hours ago

Allcargo Logistics has introduced integrated, technology-driven supply chain solutions aimed at addressing increasing complexity in India's fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. The initiative focuses on network optimisation, transportation planning and digital integration to manage fragmented inventory flows and evolving demand patterns. As FMCG companies expand product portfolios and shift towards smaller, more frequent shipments, logistics requirements are becoming more dynamic. The company's solutions enable real-time inventory balancing and flexible routing across its nationwide network spanning over 32,000 pin codes. The move reflects a broader transition in supply chain models from linear distribution systems to multi-directional, demand-responsive frameworks.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

7 hours ago

The Bombay High Court has raised concerns over the continued presence of illegal hawkers near Goregaon railway station and questioned the BMC and police on enforcement gaps. The issue was brought by a traders association citing business losses, obstruction and safety concerns. The court asked authorities to explain the lack of sustained action despite repeated complaints over the years. It also sought details on measures taken against repeat offenders. The matter forms part of a larger ongoing review of hawker regulation and implementation of the Street Vendors Act in Mumbai.Read more

8 hours ago

Uzbekistan's National Investment Fund of Uzbekistan has secured USD 300 million in cornerstone commitments from global investors, including BlackRock, ahead of its planned initial public offering on the London and Tashkent stock exchanges. The IPO marks the first global equity market listing by a state-backed Uzbek entity. The fund holds minority stakes across 13 state-owned enterprises in sectors such as energy, transport and banking. The move aligns with Uzbekistan's ongoing economic reforms aimed at attracting foreign capital and deepening its capital markets.Read more

8 hours ago

PropShare Celestia, a Small and Medium Real Estate Investment Trust (SM REIT) sponsored by Property Share Investment Trust, saw its INR 244 crore initial public offering subscribed 1.33 times at close. The issue attracted bids worth INR 324 crore, with strong interest from the other investors segment at 4.81 times subscription, while institutional participation remained modest at 17 per cent. The IPO, priced between INR 10 lakh and INR 10.50 lakh per unit, comprises a fresh issue with no offer for sale. Proceeds will be utilised to acquire seven floors in Venus Stratum, a Grade A+ commercial building in Nehru Nagar, Ahmedabad. The units are proposed to be listed on the BSE, with Ambit as lead manager.Read more

9 hours ago

The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) has appointed a joint venture of RITES Limited and Creative Group LLP to undertake a techno-commercial feasibility study for a proposed third runway at Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The study, expected to be completed within six months, will assess technical, operational, environmental and financial viability. NMIA, part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region's dual-airport system alongside Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, is designed to handle 90 million passengers annually upon full development. The move comes amid projections of sustained air traffic growth, prompting advance capacity planning. The proposed runway is expected to support long-term expansion of aviation infrastructure and improve operational efficiency at the greenfield airport.Read more

9 hours ago

SAMHI Hotels, through its subsidiary SAMHI Skyline, has entered into an agreement to lease a 162-room hotel within Ingka Centres India's upcoming 2.5 million sq ft mixed-use development in Noida. Structured under a long-term variable lease model, the deal aligns with the company's capital-light expansion strategy while ensuring operational flexibility. The hotel will be operated under an international brand, which is yet to be finalised. The project forms part of Ingka Centres broader mixed-use meeting places concept, integrating retail, hospitality and social infrastructure. Ingka Centres India operates under the Ingka Group, which also runs IKEA Retail and Ingka Investments. The development reflects continued hospitality interest in the National Capital Region amid sustained demand drivers.Read more

10 hours ago

Norway has revised the sovereign bond exclusion framework governing its USD 2.2 trillion wealth fund, removing Syria from the restricted list while adding Iran, according to a government document. The move reflects a reassessment aligned with prevailing international sanctions and follows political changes in Syria after the leadership transition in late 2024. While the shift does not mandate immediate investment, it enables the fund to consider Syrian government bonds for the first time in years. The decision carries broader implications given the fund's global influence and Syria's gradual reintegration into international financial systems, including renewed banking linkages and efforts to attract foreign capital.Read more

10 hours ago

The Human Rights Commission for the United Nations (HRCUN) conducted a humanitarian outreach drive in a slum cluster in Rohini Sector 3, New Delhi, distributing essential items to underprivileged residents. The initiative included food kits, healthcare supplies, clothing and daily-use materials, aimed at addressing immediate needs in informal settlements. Organised in the past week, the drive saw participation from the organisation's leadership and volunteers, who engaged directly with residents. The activity forms part of HRCUN's broader efforts to support marginalised communities through grassroots interventions, focusing on welfare, dignity and social inclusion. The development reflects ongoing challenges in urban informal housing areas, where access to basic services and resources remains limited.Read more

11 hours ago

India's insolvency law, introduced around a decade ago, has significantly changed the way stressed assets are resolved in the corporate sector. Over time, large conglomerates such as Adani Group, Reliance Industries, Tata Group and JSW Group have emerged as key acquirers of bankrupt and financially stressed companies. These acquisitions have helped them expand across sectors including steel, power, infrastructure and energy. While the framework was designed to improve recovery and resolve distressed firms efficiently, it has also led to a growing concentration of assets among a few major corporate houses.Read more

11 hours ago

US-based wealth management firm LPL Financial has inaugurated its Global Capability Center (GCC) in Hyderabad, marking its entry into India's expanding financial services support ecosystem. The centre will support enterprise functions including technology, operations, product development, data analytics and risk management, aligned with the company's US-focused business. Currently operating from a temporary office in Nanakramguda's Financial District, the GCC is expected to transition to a permanent facility by early 2027. The centre forms part of LPL's global operating model aimed at strengthening platform stability and enhancing advisor and client support. The move also reflects Hyderabad's continued positioning as a hub for global capability centres, particularly in financial services and technology-led operations.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

12 hours ago

Suraj Estate Developers has acquired a land parcel in Dadar West, Mumbai, for a total consideration of INR 18 crore, comprising a cash component and area-sharing with landowners. The acquisition will be redeveloped into a residential project with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of around INR 100 crore. The site, located in the G/North ward, falls within a key South-Central Mumbai micro-market with established demand and connectivity. The project is expected to add approximately 0.18 lakh sq ft of saleable area and strengthen the company's near-term development pipeline within its core operating region.Read more

12 hours ago

Amazon has announced plans to acquire Globalstar in a USD 11.57 billion deal to strengthen its satellite connectivity business and compete with SpaceX's Starlink. The move will add Globalstar's satellites and spectrum capabilities to Amazon's growing network, supporting its plans to deploy thousands of satellites by 2029. The deal also advances Amazon's entry into direct-to-device (D2D) services, expected by 2028. With rising investments in satellite internet globally, the acquisition signals Amazon's intent to close the gap with established players and expand connectivity in remote and underserved regions.Read more

13 hours ago

Logistics platform Porter has expanded its intra-city operations to eight new cities across six states, strengthening its presence in regional markets and targeting demand from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The rollout includes Mysore, Madurai, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Meerut, Agra, Aurangabad and Thrissur. Operations have commenced with two-wheeler logistics, with plans to introduce larger vehicle categories in subsequent phases. The expansion is aimed at addressing fragmented supply chains, improving last-mile connectivity and enabling cost-efficient goods movement. Porter has onboarded around 4,000 driver-partners across these cities and expects to generate over 64,000 jobs in the first year, reflecting the growing role of tech-enabled logistics in regional economies.Read more

13 hours ago

Standard Life has agreed to acquire the UK operations of Aegon for GBP 2 billion (USD 2.7 billion), in a transaction combining cash and shares. The deal will expand Standard Life's customer base to around 16 million and increase its assets under management to approximately GBP 480 billion. Aegon will receive GBP 750 million in cash and a 15.3% equity stake, becoming the largest shareholder. The transaction aligns with Aegon's ongoing restructuring and is expected to conclude towards the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. The move reflects consolidation in the UK pensions and retirement savings market amid sustained investor interest in long-term income assets.Read more

14 hours ago

Adani Energy Solutions Ltd has operationalised a 1,000 MW high-voltage direct current transmission link between Kudus and Aarey through its subsidiary Adani Electricity Mumbai Infrastructure Ltd. The project spans a 30-km overhead line and a 50-km underground corridor across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and incorporates what is described as the world's first compact HVDC substation. The infrastructure enables Mumbai to draw higher volumes of electricity, including renewable energy, from outside the city. It is expected to reduce dependence on local generation, improve grid stability, and lower the risk of outages, while supporting the region's growing power demand within a dense urban environment.Read more

14 hours ago

China's new home prices continued to decline in March, falling 0.2% month-on-month and 3.4% year-on-year, marking the steepest annual drop in ten months. The data reflects ongoing weakness in the property sector despite signs of stabilisation in major cities. While tier-one cities such as Shanghai recorded modest price gains, the broader market remains under pressure due to weak demand, high inventory levels and financial stress among developers. Policymakers have introduced targeted support measures and encouraged city-specific interventions to stabilise the sector. However, analysts indicate that a sustained recovery remains uncertain, particularly in lower-tier cities where oversupply and demographic challenges continue to weigh on housing demand.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

15 hours ago

Self-redevelopment of housing societies in Mumbai is seeing steady growth with active support from the state government. A dedicated authority and financial backing have encouraged over 1,600 societies to explore independent redevelopment. The model is gaining attention as it allows residents to retain control and avoid delays linked to private developers. With nearly 13,500 old and dilapidated buildings still pending redevelopment, this approach is emerging as a practical alternative. However, access to funding, technical expertise and approvals remain key challenges that societies continue to face.Read more

15 hours ago

CIDCO has appointed a joint venture of RITES Ltd and Creative Group LLP to carry out a six-month techno-commercial feasibility study for a proposed third runway at Navi Mumbai International Airport. The study will examine technical, operational, environmental and financial aspects of expansion. The move is part of long-term planning to meet rising air traffic demand in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, where passenger numbers are expected to grow significantly over the next two decades, putting pressure on existing airport infrastructure.Read more

16 hours ago

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has seen its Washington headquarters lease terminated at least six years ahead of schedule by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, with the property transferred to the General Services Administration, according to official records. The move follows a request initiated by the bureau shortly after the current administration took office and raises questions about the agency's future scale and operational footprint. The premises, located in central Washington, D.C., span over 300,000 sq ft and were originally secured under a 20-year lease. The development coincides with workforce reductions and a shift towards remote working, contributing to lower office utilisation across the agency.Read more

16 hours ago

CAE Simulation Training Pvt Ltd (CSTPL), a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and Canada-based CAE, has inaugurated a 44,000 sq ft pilot training facility in Mumbai, marking its fourth centre in India. The facility has commenced operations with an Airbus A320 full-flight simulator and is designed to support type rating, recurrent training and proficiency checks. A second A320 simulator is scheduled to be added in the near term, with capacity to scale up to six simulators over time. The centre forms part of CSTPL's broader network, which spans Greater Noida, Gurugram and Bengaluru. The expansion comes amid rising demand for pilot training as India's aviation sector grows, with projections indicating a requirement for around 22,000 new pilots over the next decade.Read more

17 hours ago

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested former senior executives of the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group, Amitabh Jhunjhunwala and Amit Bapna, in a money laundering case linked to alleged loan diversion at Reliance Home Finance and Reliance Commercial Finance. The probe focuses on loans given to weak entities and routed through shell companies. Authorities suspect senior-level involvement in approvals. The case follows earlier action by the CBI and is part of a wider investigation into financial irregularities and fund misuse within group companies.Read more

Mumbai News Desk

18 hours ago

Mumbai Metro Line 1 has introduced an app-based cashback feature aimed at reducing commuting costs by linking everyday online spending with travel savings. The initiative allows commuters to earn up to INR 20 cashback per transaction on purchases made via major e-commerce platforms. The cashback is credited instantly and can be transferred directly to users bank accounts. Developed in collaboration with multiple technology partners, the feature is positioned as a first-of-its-kind offering in the metro sector. The move is part of a broader push towards digital engagement and commuter-centric services, as urban transport operators increasingly integrate fintech-driven incentives to enhance ridership and user experience.Read more

19 hours ago

Canada's housing market recorded a marginal decline in activity in March, with home sales slipping 0.1% month-on-month and 2.3% annually, according to data from the Canadian Real Estate Association. Prices also weakened, with the Home Price Index falling 0.4% over the month and 4.7% year-on-year. Higher mortgage rates and global economic uncertainty weighed on demand, leading to subdued market conditions. The association has revised its 2026 sales forecast downward to 474,972 transactions, reflecting a slower recovery trajectory. The sales-to-new listings ratio remained below long-term averages, indicating continued market softness.Read more

19 Apr 2026

N Biren Singh inspected the ongoing construction of a new integrated terminal at Imphal airport, directing officials to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards. The project, being developed by the Airports Authority of India, is expected to significantly enhance passenger handling capacity from 1.39 million to 5 million passengers annually and enable round-the-clock operations. The new terminal will also expand parking capacity from around 100 to over 1,000 vehicles. Officials briefed the state government on construction progress and key infrastructure components. The development forms part of broader efforts to strengthen aviation infrastructure and connectivity in the North-East region.Read more

19 Apr 2026

Portugal's Vale do Lobo has introduced a digital concierge platform, Oliver, to support guest services and real estate enquiries across the resort. The AI-enabled system provides 24/7 multilingual assistance covering lifestyle services, bookings and personalised property discovery. It also enables prospective buyers to access tailored insights on available homes and plots, including inventory at The Residences and Vale Real precinct. The initiative reflects a growing trend among global resort destinations to integrate digital tools with on-ground services, enhancing user experience while supporting real estate sales through data-led engagement.Read more

19 Apr 2026

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified revised toll rules for overloaded vehicles on national highways, introducing a graded fee structure linked to excess weight. Under the new framework, vehicles carrying up to 10% excess load will not face penalties, while those exceeding limits by 10-40% will be charged twice the base toll and those above 40% will pay four times. The rules, effective from April 15, mandate the use of certified weighment systems and FASTag-based digital payments. Data on violations will be recorded in the VAHAN database. The policy aims to improve compliance with load norms, reduce road damage, and strengthen monitoring of freight movement across the highway network.Read more

Lucknow News Desk

19 Apr 2026

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) is planning to redevelop its ageing low-rise residential buildings into high-rise structures to improve land use and increase housing supply. The move follows the state's urban redevelopment policy targeting buildings over 25 years old or structurally weak. The plan aims to modernise infrastructure, improve living conditions, and support rising demand in the city. It also aligns with LDA's broader focus on affordable housing, new residential schemes, and infrastructure upgrades, indicating a steady shift towards vertical development in Lucknow's urban planning approach.Read more

19 Apr 2026

SriLankan Airlines plans to increase its flight frequency between Colombo and Melbourne to 10 services per week from August 2026, in response to rising travel demand. The expansion will involve the addition of three new weekly flights, strengthening connectivity between Sri Lanka and Australia. The move reflects growing passenger traffic driven by leisure travel and visits by family and friends, with Australia emerging as a key inbound tourism market. The revised schedule will supplement the airline's existing daily services, supporting capacity growth and network expansion. The development is expected to improve connectivity for transit passengers, including those from India, using Colombo as a hub.Read more

19 Apr 2026

The Bhubaneswar Development Authority has advanced plans for a new road link between Gadakana and Patia railway station with an estimated cost of INR 77 crore. The project is aimed at easing congestion and improving last-mile connectivity in one of the city's fast-growing corridors. With rising residential development and increasing commuter traffic in the Patia region, the new link is expected to reduce pressure on existing roads. The move forms part of a wider effort to strengthen urban mobility and support Bhubaneswar's ongoing expansion.Read more

Bangalore News Desk

19 Apr 2026

Property tax payments in Bengaluru have slowed as apartment residents face confusion over newly introduced solid waste management (SWM) charges. Bulk waste generators must submit detailed data to claim exemptions, but most housing societies do not track daily waste generation. The lack of clarity on the civic portal, uncertainty over vendor approvals, and fear of penalties for incorrect entries have delayed compliance. Residents have also questioned high charges and unclear responsibility between flat owners and associations, highlighting gaps in implementation and coordination.Read more

19 Apr 2026

SOTC Travel has collaborated with Tourism Australia to host a corporate-focused MICE engagement in Mumbai, aimed at promoting Australia as a preferred destination for business travel and incentive programmes. The event brought together CXOs and senior executives from multiple sectors, alongside global travel partners, to showcase Australia's infrastructure, accessibility, and curated corporate experiences. The initiative reflects growing outbound demand from Indian corporates for long-haul MICE destinations offering integrated travel, hospitality, and experiential infrastructure.Read more

19 Apr 2026

Jumeirah, part of Dubai Holding, has announced a phased restoration programme for the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, marking the first major conservation effort since the hotel opened in 1999. The restoration, expected to take around 18 months, will be led by French interior architect Tristan Auer and will focus on preserving the property's architectural identity while upgrading its interiors with refined detailing. The project aims to maintain the hotel's operational continuity while enhancing its design elements, which include bespoke finishes, luxury materials, and heritage features. The move reflects ongoing asset management strategies in Dubai's hospitality sector, where landmark properties are being upgraded to retain relevance amid sustained demand for premium hospitality assets and evolving guest expectations.Read more

19 Apr 2026

Passengers travelling on the Vande Bharat Express between Thiruvananthapuram and Mangaluru have been facing repeated delays, affecting daily travel plans and overall experience. The train has reportedly been running late by over an hour on several occasions, with delays extending up to two hours at some stations. Issues such as single-line track congestion, especially along the Alappuzha section, and inadequate pre-departure maintenance have contributed to the situation. With premium fares attached to the service, passengers have raised concerns over punctuality, cleanliness, and operational efficiency on this key Kerala route.Read more

19 Apr 2026

UK-based Morgan Sindall Group has upgraded its annual profit outlook, citing strong performance in its Fit Out and Construction divisions. The company expects earnings to exceed earlier projections, supported by robust order inflows and improved conversion of project pipelines. Shares rose over 11% following the announcement. While commercial-focused segments are driving growth, the Partnership Housing division is projected to record only modest gains compared to the previous year. The update reflects uneven performance across segments, with private housing continuing to face pressure, even as commercial construction and interior fit-out demand remains strong.Read more

19 Apr 2026

Dubai-based LEVA Hotels has signed a management agreement with Radar Properties to develop a 120-key hotel within the USD 1 billion Kings City mixed-use project in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The greenfield development will include a restaurant, fitness centre, spa, and conference facilities, forming part of a 2,100-hectare urban masterplan located near the city's central business district. This marks LEVA's fourth project in Zimbabwe and reflects its strategy to expand in high-growth African markets. The move comes amid limited supply of internationally branded lifestyle hotels in Bulawayo, despite increasing demand from business travel, regional connectivity, and major events such as the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, positioning the development within a growing hospitality segment.Read more

19 Apr 2026

Highway contractors in India are seeking additional relief measures from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways amid rising input costs and execution challenges linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis. The sector, which relies heavily on petroleum-based inputs such as bitumen and diesel, has been impacted by supply disruptions and price volatility. Industry stakeholders have requested measures including cost escalation compensation, timeline extensions, and policy clarity on force majeure provisions. The government is understood to be evaluating a second round of support to maintain project viability across EPC and hybrid annuity model projects. The situation has raised concerns over delays and financial stress in ongoing highway developments across the country.Read more