5099: 60 days' oil buffer, firms absorb energy costs, helium crunch exposes chip sector | Editor’s Picks

India has secured 60 days of crude supply and is expanding sourcing amid Strait of Hormuz disruptions, while a push for 90-day reserves gains traction. As war-driven costs rise, food companies are absorbing input pressures for now, though price hikes may follow. A helium supply shock linked to Qatar’s Ras Laffan hub highlights vulnerabilities in India’s semiconductor plans. Aviation has been hit hard, with most Gulf flights cancelled. Meanwhile, the IL&FS case tightens scrutiny on audit firms, reinforcing accountability for financial watchdogs. All this and much more in the latest Moneycontrol Editor’s Picks.