Economy

Trump picks Kevin Warsh to lead the Federal Reserve

President Donald Trump nominated Kevin Warsh on Jan. 30, 2026, to serve as the next chair of the Federal Reserve, pending Senate confirmation.

India raises taxes on tobacco and pan masala

From Feb. 1, the Centre will apply higher GST plus new excise duties and a dedicated health and national security cess, and will shift certain tobacco products to an MRP-based valuation for GST calculation.

Federal Reserve holds rates steady

The Federal Reserve left its benchmark interest rate unchanged at about 3.6% at its January 28, 2026 meeting after cutting rates three times in 2025.

Iran’s rial hits a new low against the dollar

Iran’s currency fell to a record 1,500,000 rials per US dollar, according to multiple Iranian currency-tracking websites and exchange-shop rates in Tehran on Tuesday.

Gold hits a new record as safe-haven demand accelerates

Spot gold briefly reached $5,110.50 per ounce, the first time it has crossed $5,100.

EU disburses €1 billion in budgetary support to Egypt under 2024 partnership agreement

The European Commission disbursed €1 billion to Egypt in budgetary support under a 2024 partnership agreement, while activists and human rights organizations criticized ongoing repression in Egypt.

EU plans €90 billion in loans for Ukraine, with most funds for military support

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled plans for the European Union to support Ukraine with €90 billion over two years, including €60 billion for military support and €30 billion for budget needs tied to reforms.

India approves 22 electronics projects with Rs 41,863 crore investment

The approved projects are expected to create nearly 34,000 direct jobs across multiple states in India.

India Cabinet gives Vodafone Idea 5-year pause on Rs 87,695 crore dues

Vodafone Idea will postpone most payments on its Rs 87,695 crore dues until 2031-2041 after the government granted a moratorium.

India sets 11-12% tariff on some steel imports for three years

The tariff aims to protect India's steel industry from cheap imports mainly from China and other countries.

India's Insurance Regulator Approves Risk-Based Capital and New Accounting Rules

The new rules will require Indian insurers to hold capital based on specific risks and change how revenue and profits are reported.

Indian Railways hikes passenger fares by up to 2 paise per kilometer from Dec 2025

Passenger fares on Indian Railways increased by up to 2 paise per km for mail/express and one paisa for other trains; suburban fares are unchanged.

Stay prepared with OwlBrief

Calm, curated briefings for real-world decisions.

DECISION-GRADE INTELLIGENCE

Get decision-grade intelligence in your inbox

A high-signal daily brief covering what changed and why it matters — delivered by email.

A handful of briefs — before your coffee gets cold.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We don’t sell your email.