Global technology, corporate earnings, taxation, and digital communication remained in focus on Wednesday, with Russia placing Telegram founder Pavel Durov on its international wanted list, Adani Group companies announcing contrasting quarterly results, and WhatsApp introducing web-based calling functionality.

Russia places Telegram founder Pavel Durov on international wanted list

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has formally charged Telegram founder Pavel Durov with facilitating terrorist activity and placed him on an international wanted list.

Russian authorities allege Telegram failed to remove channels, bots, and groups that were allegedly used by Ukrainian intelligence agencies and extremist organizations for cyber fraud, sabotage, and terrorist activities inside Russia.

The case further intensifies the Kremlin's long-standing dispute with Telegram. Durov, who currently resides in the UAE, has previously maintained that Telegram prioritizes user privacy and freedom of speech. Extradition remains unlikely unless he travels to a country with an extradition agreement with Russia.

Adani Enterprises reports ₹1,160 crore quarterly loss

Adani Enterprises reported a consolidated net loss of ₹1,160 crore for the April-June quarter of FY2026-27, compared with a profit of ₹885 crore during the same period last year.

The company attributed the loss primarily to a ₹2,644 crore settlement payment made to a US regulatory authority.

Despite the loss, Adani Enterprises recorded strong operational growth.

• Revenue surged nearly 50% year-on-year

• Quarterly revenue increased to ₹32,900 crore (approx.), reflecting robust performance across its diversified businesses.

The settlement-related one-time expense significantly impacted the bottom line despite higher operating income.

Adani Ports posts double-digit profit growth

In contrast, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) delivered a strong first-quarter performance.

The company reported:

• Net Profit: ₹3,650 crore (up 10% YoY)

• Revenue: ₹10,821 crore (up 19% YoY)

The growth was driven by higher cargo volumes, improved domestic port operations, and continued expansion of international logistics businesses.

The company maintained positive guidance for the remainder of the financial year.

Only three days left to file Income Tax Returns

The Income Tax Department has reminded taxpayers that July 31, 2026 is the last date for filing Income Tax Returns (ITR) for most salaried individuals.

Taxpayers who miss the deadline can still submit a belated return until December 31, 2026, but will be required to pay a late filing fee of up to ₹5,000, depending on taxable income.

Tax experts advise taxpayers to verify Form 26AS, Annual Information Statement (AIS), and pre-filled return details before submission to avoid future notices.

WhatsApp Web gets audio and video calling support

Meta-owned WhatsApp has rolled out audio and video calling directly through WhatsApp Web, eliminating the need to install the desktop application.

The new feature allows users to:

• Make and receive voice calls

• Conduct video calls directly from supported web browsers

• Use screen sharing during calls

The update is expected to benefit office users, students, and individuals working on shared or restricted computers where installing desktop applications is not permitted.

Market Watch

• Indian equity markets are expected to remain focused on corporate earnings and global developments.

• Investors will track quarterly results from Mahindra & Mahindra and Hyundai Motor India.

• Manipal Health Enterprises IPO opens for subscription today.

• Petrol and diesel prices remain unchanged across major Indian cities.