Assistive TechnologyCybersecurity

Massive Data Exposure: 40 Billion Records Found Unsecured in Marketing Firm’s Database

Security researchers discovered a massive, unprotected database containing over 40 billion records of sensitive personal information. The database belonged to marketing company Netcore Cloud and included banking activity notices, healthcare notifications, and confidential records.

Unprotected Database Discovered

Security researcher Jeremiah Fowler discovered an enormous, unencrypted database exposed online without any password protection, according to reports from security analysts. The database contained approximately 40 billion data records weighing nearly 13 terabytes, leaving sensitive information accessible to anyone with basic internet access capabilities.

International Business and TradePolicy

India Questions Trump’s Claim About Modi Halting Russian Oil Purchases

The Indian government has cast doubt on Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop purchasing Russian oil. According to reports, Indian officials stated they were unaware of any recent conversation between the two leaders regarding this matter.

Conflicting Accounts Emerge Over Alleged Trump-Modi Call

India’s foreign ministry has stated it is “not aware” of a telephone conversation that US President Donald Trump claimed occurred with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding Russian oil purchases. The conflicting accounts emerged Wednesday when Trump asserted that his Indian counterpart had “assured me today” that India would cease importing Russian oil, a move analysts suggest would increase economic pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

BusinessEconomy and Trading

Indian Microfinance Sector Faces Rising Defaults Amid Economic Strain

India’s microfinance sector, which has lifted millions from poverty, faces mounting challenges as defaults rise to 6%. Economic stress, political interference, and regulatory changes create a “vicious cycle” for lenders and borrowers alike, according to industry reports.

Microfinance Crisis Threatens Poverty Alleviation Model

India’s microfinance sector, credited with lifting millions out of poverty, is facing significant strain as default rates more than double amid economic challenges. According to reports, the industry that serves approximately 60 million borrowers with $35 billion in loans now sees delinquency rates reaching 6%, compared to the traditional 95% repayment rate that characterized the sector’s successful years.

GovernmentInternational Business and TradePolicy

Trump Claims Modi Commits to Halting Russian Oil Imports Amid US Pressure

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured him India will cease buying Russian oil. The announcement comes as Washington intensifies efforts to cut off Moscow’s energy revenues following the invasion of Ukraine.

Trump Announces Modi’s Commitment on Russian Oil

According to reports from Reuters, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to stop purchasing oil from Russia. The announcement signals a potential major shift in global energy alliances as Washington intensifies efforts to cut off Moscow‘s revenues following its invasion of Ukraine.

BusinessStartups

Coinbase Increases Investment in India’s CoinDCX, Valuing Crypto Exchange at $2.45 Billion

Coinbase has reportedly increased its investment in Indian cryptocurrency exchange CoinDCX, valuing the platform at $2.45 billion according to sources. The move signals the US crypto giant’s continued commitment to the Indian market despite regulatory uncertainty and recent security challenges.

Coinbase Expands Indian Presence Through CoinDCX Investment

Coinbase has reportedly increased its investment in India’s leading cryptocurrency exchange CoinDCX, according to sources familiar with the matter. The investment extension values the Indian exchange at $2.45 billion post-money, analysts suggest, representing a significant increase from its previous valuation of $2.15 billion during its April 2022 funding round.

Economy and TradingPolicy

Federal Shutdown Extends as Rate Cut Looms, Employment and Housing Weaken

Ongoing federal shutdown and China’s rare earths export controls create economic uncertainty. Employment data shows highest unemployment rates in four years while housing market weakens. Federal Reserve likely to cut rates at October meeting.

Federal shutdown implications and economic uncertainty dominate financial markets as China’s rare earths export controls trigger trade tensions and equity sell-offs. With the government closure entering its second week and key economic data delayed, analysts anticipate Federal Reserve intervention through rate cuts while employment and housing indicators show concerning weakness.

Trade Tensions Escalate Over Rare Earths Controls