Latest Corporate News News

đź“…February 1, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Indian markets open Sunday for historic Union Budget trading amid volatility; global M&A surges with Netflix-WBD deal and franchise acquisitions; US faces shutdown and WHO exit impacts.
1

Indian Stock Markets Open on Sunday for Union Budget 2026 Special Session

Indian markets are holding a rare Sunday trading session from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM IST to react live to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Union Budget announcements. This marks only the second time since independence that markets have opened on a Sunday for the Budget. Sensex and Nifty show volatility with gains in Adani Ent offset by M&M drags.Source 1Source 3

2

Netflix Secures $72 Billion All-Cash Deal for Warner Bros. Discovery's Streaming and Studios

Warner Bros. Discovery accepted Netflix's amended $72 billion all-cash offer at $27.75 per share for its studios, HBO, HBO Max, and DC assets, with shareholder vote by April 2026. The deal separates Discovery Global networks like CNN prior to closing and faces DOJ antitrust scrutiny. Investment banks JPMorgan and Allen & Co. stand to earn $90 million each.Source 4

3

Franchise M&A Heats Up in 2026 with WellBiz Brands Acquired by Transom Capital

Transom Capital Group acquired WellBiz Brands, platform for Drybar, Elements Massage, and others, citing strong brands and scalable model. WellBiz plans 150 new franchise agreements in 2026 post-development year. Private equity optimism drives franchise deal momentum per surveys.Source 2

4

Mr Gatti’s Pizza Acquired by OneRyan Global LLC in Major Franchise Transaction

Texas-based Mr Gatti’s Pizza was bought by OneRyan Global, praising its dining-entertainment platform and franchise network. OneRyan CEO Amanda S. Ryan becomes vice-chair, aiming for growth. This follows Thunderly Marketing's two quick franchise deals this January.Source 2

5

US Partial Government Shutdown Begins Affecting Key Departments

A partial US government shutdown started at midnight after Congress missed spending deadline amid Democrat stalls over ICE issues. Departments of Defense, State, and Health impacted with tight budgets until Senate passage. A temporary Homeland Security funding bill provides two-week extension.Source 10

6

US Officially Exits WHO, Triggering Job Cuts and Funding Shortfall

The Trump administration finalized US withdrawal from WHO in late January 2026, owing $260 million in fees. WHO plans 2,300 job cuts (25% workforce) and division downsizing by summer. US was largest funder, impacting global health programs.Source 7

7

First Savings Bank Merger with First Merchants Bank Closes

As of 12:01 a.m. February 1, 2026, First Savings Bank legally merged into First Merchants Bank, marking a key milestone. This completes their journey together in banking consolidation. Details on integration impacts pending.Source 8

8

Infosys Shares Surge 5% After Strong Q3 FY26 Results

Infosys stock jumped 5% following robust Q3 FY26 earnings release. Shares also rose 3% as ADRs hit 52-week high before cooling. Positive investor reaction amid market volatility.Source 1

9

Hindustan Copper Shares Volatile: Up 30% Then Down 3% on Metal Prices

Hindustan Copper jumped 30% amid gains but fell 3% as metal prices slipped over 1% on year-end profit taking. Stock rose 10% in three sessions, prompting investor caution queries. Performance tied to commodity trends.Source 1

10

Rail Stocks Boom ₹66,500 Crore in 5 Days After 17-Month Slump

Indian rail stocks roared back with ₹66,500 crore gain in five days, ending 17-month downturn. Moving average crossover signals uptrend in Rail Vikas Nigam. Sector momentum on track recovery.Source 1

11

JSW Steel, Tata Steel, Jindal Steel Surge Up to 4% on Safeguard Duty

Steel giants JSW Steel, Tata Steel, and Jindal Steel shares rose up to 4% after safeguard duty announcement. Policy boosts sector sentiment amid global cues. Investors eye steel protection measures.Source 1

12

Bitdeer Technologies Faces Securities Class Action Deadline February 2

Rosen Law Firm urges Bitdeer (BTDR) investors from June 2024-November 2025 to secure counsel before February 2 lead plaintiff deadline. Potential compensation via contingency fees for class period purchasers. Firm highlights its top-ranked securities litigation record.Source 5