TRAVEL INDUSTRY
GST Council eases rules on credit notes, relief for FMCG players
The GST Council has eased compliance for businesses by eliminating the need to link credit notes to specific invoices, a move that simplifies transactions across the supply chain, especially for FMCG companies dealing with product returns and discounts. This change reduces paperwork, improves cash flow, and aligns GST provisions with standard business practices, offering greater commercial flexibility.
Shark Tank's Anupam Mittal on why Kashmir should not be called India's Switzerland, after he visits the valley with family
Anupam Mittal visited Kashmir with his family. He found the region more than just scenic. The valley's economy is growing, and tourism is booming. Apple, saffron, nuts, and honey industries are also thriving. Local startups are working to showcase Kashmir. Despite challenges like the recent attack, Kashmiris remain resilient. Mittal learned that Kashmir's beauty lies in its enduring spirit.
GST 2.0: CBIC clarifies social media claims about transition benefits under revised GST rules are false
The CBIC has refuted a viral social media message claiming new GST transition benefits would be applicable from September 22, 2025, deeming it factually incorrect and misleading. The GST council approved 'next-gen' reforms on September 3, 2025, including a shift to a two-slab tax structure.
Destination wedding vs local wedding: Banker breaks down the shocking cost of destination weddings in India
Destination weddings in India, particularly in Jaipur, can cost between Rs 75 lakh and Rs 5 crore. A typical Jaipur wedding for 200 guests averages Rs 1.2 to Rs 1.5 crore, covering accommodation, food, decor, and more. Hosting a local wedding can accommodate nearly 600 guests for the same budget, saving on travel and lodging expenses.
Phuket to host Thailand's International Boat Show in 2026
The Thailand International Boat Show 2026, returning to Phuket Yacht Haven Marina from January 15-18, will showcase superyachts and luxury experiences. Aiming to boost yacht tourism and establish Thailand as a premier Asian marine hub, the event anticipates 6,000 tourists. A pre-show Yachting Conference on January 14 will address industry trends and sustainable practices.
US to target more businesses after Hyundai raid, top official says
The Trump administration plans to intensify immigration enforcement at workplaces, according to White House official Tom Homan, following a raid on a Hyundai facility in Georgia that resulted in hundreds of arrests. Homan stated that businesses hiring undocumented immigrants exploit them for lower wages, undercutting competition.
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SpiceJet to unground 10 aircraft by April 2026, expansion underway to meet market demand
SpiceJet aims to restore grounded aircraft by April 2026, including several Boeing 737 NG, MAX, and Q400 planes. The airline has secured maintenance slots and dispatched engines for repair. SpiceJet received overhauled engines from StandardAero. SpiceJet raised funds and finalized a lease for ten Boeing 737s.
PSU stocks: Time to relook? But don’t use the 2023 lens; choose the business. 57 PSU stocks, some good, some not so good
A bull run from June 2023 to June 2024, and then a bear run for a year. PSU stocks now seem at a stage where it is probably time to look at them again. For those who have not noticed, some of these stocks have seen higher-than-average volumes. Also a sort of outperformance in the bearish phase where they did not decline like other stocks in the market. They are not in the news any more; nor are many talking about them on TV. All signs suggesting it might probably be time to look at them again. But this time do it from a very different perspective – and not just because they are PSU. What matters is the category of business they fall into.
SpiceJet sinks into losses in Q1 as fleet & operational issues weigh
SpiceJet reported a consolidated net loss of Rs 234 crore in the June quarter, a stark contrast to the previous year's profit, due to grounded aircraft and restricted air routes. Revenue from operations declined significantly, impacted by fleet constraints, geopolitical tensions, and subdued travel demand following an aviation accident.
SpiceJet Q1 Results: Airline slips into red with Rs 234 crore YoY loss, revenue falls 36%
SpiceJet faced a setback in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025. The budget carrier announced a consolidated net loss of Rupees 234 crore. This contrasts with a net profit of Rupees 158 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations also declined significantly. It fell by 36 percent year-on-year, reaching Rupees 1,060 crore.
Indulgent heritage experiences with each swipe. Only with the Times Black ICICI Bank credit card
The Times Black ICICI Bank credit card goes beyond template perks, proving that true privilege isn't about what you buy, but about what money cannot access.
Travel industry packs its bags for a festive takeoff
The GST cuts on hotel tariffs and dining are expected to boost the travel and hospitality industry during the festive season, following a weak first quarter impacted by various incidents. With reduced prices, companies like Treebo anticipate increased bookings, aligning with the peak travel period of Navaratri and Diwali.
Economy flyers may think twice before upgrading
Airlines in India are experiencing a surge in premium cabin demand, but a recent government tax hike on business and premium economy seats threatens this growth. While business class may remain unaffected, premium economy could suffer as price-sensitive economy passengers reconsider upgrades. The tax increase adds to ticket costs, potentially hindering India's competitiveness as an aviation hub.
Tourism Boost: GST on hotel room tariffs under ₹7,500 cut to 5%
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council has decided to reduce tax rates on hotel rooms costing up to Rs 7,500 per day. The new rate is 5% without input tax credit. This decision aims to benefit budget and mid-market travelers. Nikhil Sharma from Radisson Hotel Group believes this will boost domestic tourism.
US trade deficit widens in July on soaring imports
The U.S. trade deficit surged in July to $78.3 billion due to increased imports of capital goods and industrial supplies, potentially impacting third-quarter GDP. While imports soared, exports saw only a marginal increase, leading to a wider goods trade deficit, particularly with China. Service exports also reached a record high, but travel services declined amid immigration policies.
IATA says higher GST on non-economy class flight tickets 'disappointing', counterproductive
IATA has expressed disappointment over the GST Council's decision to raise the GST on non-economy flight tickets to 18%, arguing it undermines efforts to enhance premium travel experiences and could dampen demand. The association believes taxing premium travelers is counterproductive, especially considering the thin profit margins of Asia Pacific airlines.
Zara, Levi’s, Lacoste among global fashion brands that may be hit by new GST rates
India's tax overhaul is set to reduce prices on various goods, but global fashion brands face higher levies on apparel exceeding $29. This move impacts premium wear, affecting brands like Zara and Levi Strauss, as young, brand-conscious consumers may become price-sensitive.
Anand Tandon warns tariffs may weigh on growth, stays bearish on consumption
Metal stocks like Tata Steel and Hindalco are performing well. This is due to tariff protection and supply issues in China. The tourism sector is also in focus because of GST changes. TBO Tek is gaining attention after acquisitions. However, analyst Anand Tandon is cautious. He believes tariffs could negatively impact India's economic growth. He expects a slowdown in consumption.
GST reforms to provide relief to families, ease compliance for businesses: India Inc
Industry bodies said the clarity will ease compliance, reduce litigation, and give businesses and consumers much-needed predictability. The GST Council on Wednesday approved a two-tier rate structure of 5 and 18 per cent, which will be implemented from September 22.
TBO to acquire US luxury travel firm Classic Vacations for $125 million
TBO, a Gurugram-based travel distribution company, has agreed to acquire Classic Vacations from The Najafi Companies for $125 million. This acquisition combines TBO’s technology platform with Classic Vacations’ luxury travel advisor network. Classic Vacations reported $111 million in revenue and $11.2 million in operating EBITDA for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.
How Trump is killing the US tourism industry: $12.5B gone, visitors down 8.2% in 2025
US tourism is collapsing in 2025 as Trump-era tariffs, immigration crackdowns, and a new $250 ‘visa integrity fee’ drive international arrivals down 8.2%. The World Travel & Tourism Council warns America is the only major country seeing declines, with $12.5 billion lost as Canada, China, and Colombia surge
Royal Caribbean’s futuristic massive LNG cruise ship just set sail, and it’s a total game-changer
Royal Caribbean International has officially launched its newest mega cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, at Meyer Turku’s Finnish shipyard on August 29. This vessel is the third in a groundbreaking series of ships redefining modern cruising, combining size, luxury, and cutting-edge sustainability technologies.
AI is replacing jobs on Earth - Sam Altman, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk say the future of work is in Space
Future space careers: Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the job market. A study shows AI impacts entry-level jobs. Tech billionaires like Sam Altman, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos envision space careers. Altman sees Gen Alpha exploring the solar system. Musk aims for Mars missions by 2028. Bezos imagines millions living and working in space. Space tourism and planet colonization are future industries.
Labor Day 2025: What’s open and closed in New York on September 1 - grocery stores, banks, subway stations & more
The federal holiday celebrates the nation’s workforce and the achievements of the American labor movement. It also marks the symbolic close of summer, offering one last long weekend before the new school year begins.
With 7% CAGR in income over past decade, demand for premium product increasing in India: Report
A new report suggests India's consumer landscape is changing. Rising incomes are creating more premium consumers. As per capita GDP rises, spending habits are shifting. People are now opting for branded goods and better services. Social media and e-commerce are boosting premium product access. Sectors like automobiles, beauty, and travel are seeing premium growth.
A downturn in international travel to the US may last beyond summer, experts warn
International tourism to the United States faced a decline. Buffalo, New York, experienced a drop in Canadian visitors. Experts attribute this to policies and rhetoric. Forecasts suggest a continued decrease in foreign visitor spending. Some events were postponed due to concerns about America's image. While some regions saw domestic tourism growth, the absence of international visitors was noticeable.
Indian visitors to US dip in June; first decline in over two decades
Indian travel to the US declined in June 2025, ending a 20-year growth. The US Commerce Department reports an 8% drop compared to June 2024. Overall international visits to the US also decreased. Despite this, India remains a key source of US travelers. Visa delays and global events may have contributed to the decline.
Forget chasing sunsets: A new travel trend is letting adventurers discover the world’s after dark. What is 'noctourism'?
Noctourism — exploring destinations after dark — is reshaping travel. According to National Geographic, nearly two-thirds of travelers now seek night-focused holidays, from stargazing under DarkSky-certified skies to moonlit safaris and aurora hunting. Luxury lodges, star-bed stays, and city tours are reimagining experiences beyond daylight. With rising overtourism, noctourism offers a quieter, magical alternative — from glowing seas and night markets to lantern-lit landmarks — proving the world transforms once the lights go out.
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