Alembic Pharma Secures Final USFDA Approval for Acitretin Capsules USP

Alembic Pharmaceuticals has received final approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Acitretin Capsules USP. This approved ANDA is considered therapeutically equivalent to the reference listed drug product, Soriatane Capsules, by Stiefel Laboratories, Inc.

Acitretin capsules are prescribed for the treatment of severe psoriasis in adults, a chronic skin condition. The drug has a significant market potential, with an estimated market size of USD 21 million (approximately INR 176 crore) for the twelve months ending June 2024, according to data from IQVIA.

This approval allows Alembic Pharma to produce and market Acitretin Capsules USP in the U.S., contributing to the company's portfolio of dermatological solutions. The achievement marks another milestone for Alembic Pharma in its ongoing efforts to expand its product offerings in the global pharmaceutical market.

Astrea Real Estate Developers Pvt., a subsidiary of The Phoenix Mills Ltd., has acquired five land-owning entities in Coimbatore for ₹370 crore. The company plans to build a greenfield retail development project in Coimbatore as part of its strategy to add one million square feet of retail space every year.

Here's a comprehensive list of some of the most popular crude oil trading brokers in India, providing details about their platforms, services, and features. These brokers are well-regulated and known for their reliable trading services in crude oil and other commodities.

### 1. **Zerodha**

- **Website**: [Zerodha](https://zerodha.com/)
- **Platform**: Kite
- **Features**:
  - Offers low brokerage rates.
  - Advanced trading platform with charting tools and technical analysis features.
  - Provides educational resources and community forums.
  - Allows trading in MCX commodities, including crude oil.

### 2. **Angel One (Formerly Angel Broking)**

- **Website**: [Angel One](https://www.angelone.in/)
- **Platform**: Angel One App, Angel Broking Trade
- **Features**:
  - Comprehensive research reports and expert recommendations.
  - Easy-to-use mobile and web trading platforms.
  - Offers trading in commodities, equities, and derivatives.
  - Competitive brokerage plans for intraday and futures trading.

### 3. **ICICI Direct**

- **Website**: [ICICI Direct](https://www.icicidirect.com/)
- **Platform**: ICICI Direct Trade Racer
- **Features**:
  - Trusted brand with strong banking support.
  - Provides detailed research and analysis reports.
  - Multiple trading products, including crude oil futures.
  - Advanced trading tools and real-time market data.

### 4. **HDFC Securities**

- **Website**: [HDFC Securities](https://www.hdfcsec.com/)
- **Platform**: HDFC Securities Mobile App, ProTerminal
- **Features**:
  - Seamless integration with HDFC Bank accounts.
  - Comprehensive research and market insights.
  - Offers trading in MCX commodities, including crude oil.
  - User-friendly trading platforms for desktop and mobile.

### 5. **Kotak Securities**

- **Website**: [Kotak Securities](https://www.kotaksecurities.com/)
- **Platform**: KEAT Pro X, Kotak Stock Trader App
- **Features**:
  - Competitive brokerage plans for commodities trading.
  - Extensive research reports and market analysis.
  - Real-time market updates and alerts.
  - Integration with Kotak Bank accounts for easy fund transfers.

### 6. **Sharekhan**

- **Website**: [Sharekhan](https://www.sharekhan.com/)
- **Platform**: Sharekhan TradeTiger
- **Features**:
  - Comprehensive charting tools and indicators.
  - Offers educational resources and webinars for traders.
  - Provides access to MCX for crude oil trading.
  - Competitive brokerage plans and margin facilities.

### 7. **5Paisa**

- **Website**: [5Paisa](https://www.5paisa.com/)
- **Platform**: 5Paisa Mobile App, Trade Station
- **Features**:
  - Low-cost brokerage plans for traders and investors.
  - Offers trading in commodities, stocks, and mutual funds.
  - Advanced trading tools and portfolio analysis.
  - User-friendly platforms for web and mobile trading.

### 8. **Motilal Oswal**

- **Website**: [Motilal Oswal](https://www.motilaloswal.com/)
- **Platform**: MO Investor, MO Trader
- **Features**:
  - Offers a wide range of research reports and trading tips.
  - Provides trading in MCX commodities, including crude oil.
  - User-friendly platforms with advanced charting tools.
  - Competitive brokerage plans for commodity traders.

### 9. **Upstox**

- **Website**: [Upstox](https://upstox.com/)
- **Platform**: Upstox Pro Web, Upstox Pro Mobile
- **Features**:
  - Low-cost brokerage with advanced trading tools.
  - Real-time market data and advanced charting features.
  - Offers trading in commodities, equities, and derivatives.
  - User-friendly mobile and web trading platforms.

### 10. **IIFL Securities**

- **Website**: [IIFL Securities](https://www.indiainfoline.com/)
- **Platform**: IIFL Markets App, TT Web
- **Features**:
  - Extensive research reports and trading insights.
  - Provides access to MCX commodities, including crude oil.
  - Competitive brokerage plans for commodity trading.
  - Advanced trading platforms for mobile and desktop users.

### 11. **Geojit Financial Services**

- **Website**: [Geojit](https://www.geojit.com/)
- **Platform**: SELFIE App, Trading Terminal
- **Features**:
  - Offers trading in commodities, equities, and mutual funds.
  - Comprehensive research and market analysis tools.
  - User-friendly trading platforms with advanced features.
  - Provides access to MCX for crude oil trading.

### 12. **Alice Blue**

- **Website**: [Alice Blue](https://www.aliceblueonline.com/)
- **Platform**: ANT Web, ANT Mobi
- **Features**:
  - Low brokerage rates with advanced trading tools.
  - Provides trading in MCX commodities, including crude oil.
  - Real-time market data and charting features.
  - User-friendly mobile and web trading platforms.

### Factors to Consider When Choosing a Broker

When choosing a crude oil trading broker in India, consider the following factors:

1. **Brokerage Rates**: Look for brokers with competitive and transparent brokerage plans.

2. **Trading Platforms**: Ensure the platform is user-friendly and offers advanced tools for analysis.

3. **Research and Analysis**: Access to quality research reports and market insights can help in making informed decisions.

4. **Customer Support**: Reliable customer support can assist you in resolving issues promptly.

5. **Regulation and Safety**: Choose brokers that are well-regulated and have a good reputation for security and transparency.

### Conclusion

These brokers provide a range of services, from low-cost trading platforms to comprehensive research and analysis tools. Choose a broker that best fits your trading needs, preferences, and investment goals. Always ensure the broker is registered with regulatory bodies like the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for added safety and compliance.

Tata Elxsi Partnership with Skanray: Tata Elxsi announced a partnership with Skanray, a global leader in medical technology, to boost innovation in surgical imaging and healthcare. The collaboration will focus on developing advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies using AI and GenAI. Skanray plans to expand its device portfolio and create reusable modules along with an analytics cloud platform. Meanwhile, Tata Elxsi will develop a software platform to support all Skanray systems, ensuring interoperability and enhanced diagnostics. This partnership aims to combine Skanray's expertise in medical devices with Tata Elxsi's capabilities in digital technology and AI, promising to deliver advanced and affordable diagnostic systems.

NBCC has been awarded work orders worth ₹50 crore by the Ministry of External Affairs for the construction of a regional passport office in Srinagar, J&K.

Sansera Engineering has announced in a regulatory filing that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Government of Karnataka for the acquisition of 55 acres of industrial land in Harohalli, Ramanagara, Bengaluru.

The terms "tax-free country" and "zero-tax country" are often used interchangeably, but they can have slightly different meanings depending on the context. Let's explore the distinctions and understand the nuances between them:

### **1. Tax-Free Country**

A **tax-free country** typically refers to a country or jurisdiction where certain types of taxes, such as income tax, sales tax, or value-added tax (VAT), do not exist or are not levied on individuals or businesses. However, this does not necessarily mean that there are no taxes at all. Instead, a tax-free country might:

- **Impose Other Types of Taxes:** These countries might still levy other forms of taxes, such as import duties, property taxes, or excise taxes on specific goods and services.
- **Target Specific Income Sources:** Some tax-free countries may not tax personal income but could impose taxes on business profits or foreign income.
- **Offer Exemptions:** Tax exemptions could be available for specific industries, business activities, or income sources.

#### **Examples of Tax-Free Countries:**

- **Monaco:** There is no personal income tax for residents, but there are business taxes, especially for companies generating more than 25% of their turnover outside of Monaco.
- **Bermuda:** No income tax, but there are payroll and consumption taxes.
- **Andorra:** No income tax until 2015, but currently offers very low income tax rates compared to other European nations.

### **2. Zero-Tax Country**

A **zero-tax country** is typically a jurisdiction that imposes no income taxes on its residents and may also have minimal to no corporate taxes. These countries often aim to attract foreign investment and residency by providing a completely tax-free environment for both individuals and businesses. The defining characteristics of a zero-tax country include:

- **No Personal Income Tax:** Residents do not pay taxes on personal income, regardless of the source.
- **No Corporate Income Tax:** Businesses can operate without being subject to corporate taxes.
- **No Capital Gains Tax:** There are usually no taxes on capital gains from investments.
- **Potential Other Fees:** The government might rely on other forms of revenue, such as fees for residency permits, import duties, or tourism-related charges.

#### **Examples of Zero-Tax Countries:**

- **The Bahamas:** No personal income tax, corporate tax, or capital gains tax.
- **Cayman Islands:** Known for having no direct taxes, including no income or corporate taxes.
- **Vanuatu:** No income tax, corporate tax, or capital gains tax.

### **Key Differences**

| **Aspect**          | **Tax-Free Country** | **Zero-Tax Country** |
|---------------------|----------------------|----------------------|
| **Income Tax**      | May exist but limited or very low | Does not exist |
| **Corporate Tax**  | May exist with exemptions or reduced rates | Does not exist |
| **Other Taxes**    | Might have other taxes like VAT, excise, or customs duties | Might have minimal taxes or fees on specific activities |
| **Scope**          | Often selective or specific tax exemptions | Broad and general exemption from income-related taxes |
| **Purpose**        | To attract specific types of businesses or industries | To attract residents and businesses for financial residency |

### **Considerations for Choosing Between Tax-Free and Zero-Tax Countries**

1. **Business Goals:** Consider whether you need a base for operations or merely a financial residency.
2. **Legal Obligations:** Understand the legal requirements for residency, business operations, and any reporting obligations.
3. **Lifestyle Factors:** Consider lifestyle, climate, and amenities in addition to tax benefits.
4. **Other Costs:** Evaluate any hidden costs, such as high living expenses, government fees, or mandatory insurance.
5. **Financial Strategy:** Consider how the tax environment aligns with your broader financial strategy and investment plans.

### **Examples of Tax-Free and Zero-Tax Countries**

Here's a quick look at some popular countries and their tax environments:

- **Monaco (Tax-Free):** No personal income tax for residents but has VAT and business taxes for companies.
- **The Bahamas (Zero-Tax):** No income, corporate, or capital gains tax but relies on import duties and tourism fees.
- **United Arab Emirates (Tax-Free):** No income tax, but certain industries have VAT and excise taxes. Businesses in free zones can benefit from no corporate tax.
- **Cayman Islands (Zero-Tax):** No income, corporate, or capital gains tax, making it a popular offshore financial center.

### **Conclusion**

The choice between a tax-free and zero-tax country depends on individual or business needs, lifestyle preferences, and long-term financial goals. While both offer attractive tax benefits, understanding the subtle differences can help in making an informed decision about residency or investment. It's also essential to consider other aspects like political stability, quality of life, and regulatory environment when choosing a country for residency or business operations. Always consult with a tax advisor or legal professional to understand the implications fully.

SJVN Ltd. has announced that it has received a Letter of Intent from the Government of Mizoram for the allotment of the Darzo Lui Pumped Storage Project. This marks SJVN's first venture in the state. The Darzo Lui Pumped Storage Project, with an installed capacity of 2,400 megawatts, is proposed to be developed across Darzo Nallah, a tributary of the Tuipui River. The estimated cost of completing the project is ₹13,947.50 crore. SJVN expects to complete the project in 72 months. An agreement formalising this venture is expected to be signed within the next three months between SJVN and the Government of Mizoram.

Tata Elxsi has joined forces with Wind River to enhance the development of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) by utilizing the Studio Developer platform. Announced on July 23, 2024, this partnership will take advantage of Wind River's cloud-native DevSecOps tools to optimize Tata Elxsi's workflows, improving both efficiency and productivity. Wind River's platform, renowned for its strong edge-to-cloud capabilities, will assist Tata Elxsi in addressing the complex challenges associated with developing cloud-connected SDVs.

The Indian government has proposed a complete exemption of customs duties on 25 critical minerals, including rare earth metals, and a reduction in the basic customs duty (BCD) on two of them. The proposal aims to set the customs duty at zero for key minerals such as copper, gallium, germanium, hafnium, indium, lithium, molybdenum, niobium, nickel, potash, rare earth elements (REE), rhenium, strontium, tantalum, tellurium, tin, tungsten, vanadium, zirconium, selenium, cadmium, and silicon (excluding quartz and silicon dioxide). Currently, the customs duty on these 25 minerals ranges from 5% to 7.5%.