Bitcoin reaches an all-time high of $70,000, with traders diversifying into memecoins for greater returns. Dogecoin and Pepe see significant gains, while Ether approaches $4,000. Analysts predict a shift towards altcoins amidst Bitcoin consolidation. Ether's surge is fueled by anticipation of SEC approval for exchange-traded funds. Memecoins, like Shiba Inu and Dogecoin, gain traction among retail investors, positioning newer tokens for growth. Analysts anticipate emerging narratives driving the altcoin market. Despite lack of traditional fundamentals, memecoins offer high returns, reflecting the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investment.

India's Union cabinet is set to review an agreement with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), possibly announcing the first formal free trade deal on Sunday. The deal includes duty-free access for India's animal products, fish, processed food, and vegetable oils. EFTA nations - Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland - propose a $100 billion investment in India, potentially creating a million jobs. The agreement, under negotiation since 2008, offers immediate duty elimination on 40% of trade lines. Experts anticipate gains in services and investment, marking a significant achievement for India if the plan proceeds.

Fly91, a new airline co-founded by former Kingfisher Airlines senior executive Manoj Chako, has been granted the Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The airline, operating under the brand name FLY91, successfully completed its inaugural flight from Manohar International Airport, Mopa in Goa to Bengaluru on March 2. With its NOC obtained in April last year and recent completion of test flights, Fly91 is poised to connect tier 2 and tier 3 towns across India, marking a significant milestone in India's aviation sector.          

Apple faces a £1.5bn fine from the EU for favoring its own music streaming service, causing iPhone and iPad users to pay higher prices for subscriptions. The European Commission revealed that Apple withheld information about cheaper alternatives for over a decade. The penalty follows a complaint by Spotify, leading to a five-year investigation. Apple is accused of abusing its dominant position, preventing app developers from informing users about cost-effective subscription options. In response, Apple pledges to allow European iPhone users access to alternative app stores and payment systems. The fine, though significant, accounts for only 0.5% of Apple's global revenue.

Tata Motors' board greenlights the demerger plan, segregating the company into two distinct listed entities: commercial vehicles and passenger vehicles. Shareholders will maintain identical ownership in both entities. The move follows earlier subsidiarisation of PV and EV businesses in 2022, aimed at enhancing growth and agility. Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran highlights independent operations of the three automotive units, expecting the demerger to optimize opportunities. The process, facilitated by an NCLT scheme, anticipates completion in 12-15 months without adverse impact on stakeholders.

Reliance Industries, Walt Disney Co, and Viacom18 Media Pvt Ltd have officially inked agreements to merge their Indian media operations, creating a colossal Rs 70,000 crore entity. In this joint venture, Viacom18's media assets will integrate into Star India Pvt Ltd, with Reliance holding a dominating 63.16% stake, while Disney will have the remaining 36.84%. Reliance's investment of Rs 11,500 crore will bolster the venture's OTT business. The collaboration aims to become a major force in TV and digital streaming, boasting over 750 million viewers, promising diverse content and an innovative digital entertainment experience at affordable prices.

Shveta Sharma alleges fraudulent activities by an ICICI Bank manager, claiming she was duped of ₹13.5 crore. Having transferred funds from her US account for fixed deposits, she expected returns to exceed ₹16 crore. Sharma asserts the manager provided fake statements and altered her contact details to prevent withdrawal notifications. ICICI Bank suspends the accused pending investigation, assuring Sharma of full restitution upon verification. However, the bank highlights discrepancies, suggesting Sharma should have noticed irregularities earlier. An ongoing complaint with the Economic Offences Wing aims to unravel the complex case, underscoring the need for vigilance in financial transactions.

Under the RBI's directive to wind down its banking operations by March 15, Paytm is in discussions with Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), and Yes Bank for potential UPI partnerships. The RBI instructed NPCI to evaluate Paytm's request for multi-bank facilitation. Talks aim to commence collaborations with technologically adept major banks. As the third-largest UPI app in India, Paytm plans user migration to partner banks' UPI handles. NPCI's scrutiny of the banks' technology and infrastructure is anticipated over the next month.

The Indian government has approved up to 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) for select activities. Under the new policy, FDI in satellite manufacturing, operation, and related segments is set at 74% under the automatic route, with government approval required beyond this threshold. Launch vehicles and associated systems allow up to 49% FDI via the automatic route, while manufacturing components for satellites permits 100% FDI automatically. Consultations with stakeholders including ISRO and industry players preceded the decision, aiming to harness private investment for technological advancement and global competitiveness in India's space endeavors.

The combined market capitalization of Tata Group companies has surpassed the entire economy of Pakistan, standing at over $365 billion or Rs 30 lakh crore, according to The Economic Times. Despite India's positive economic outlook, Pakistan faces challenges with high debt and inflation. TCS alone, part of Tata Group, is half the size of Pakistan's economy. Tata Motors and Trent contributed significantly to the conglomerate's market surge. The professionally managed Tata Group, largely owned by philanthropic trusts, demonstrates robust market strength, highlighting the stark economic contrast between India and Pakistan.