Empowering India’s SMEs: The Launch of the Rs. 10,000 Crore Growth Fund

Cabinet approves Commitment of Rs.10,000 Crore towards establishment of the SME Growth Fund for direct equity investments in Small and Medium Enterprises to create future champions

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today approved the Government of India’s commitment of Rs.10,000 crore towards the establishment of the SME Growth Fund (SGF)aimed at catalysing growth-oriented capital for India’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and enabling the emergence of champion Indian enterprises across manufacturing, services, technology, innovation-driven sectors, and strategic value chains as per Para 28 of Union Budget 2026-27. This was in part of the holistic set of announcements that were made in Union Budget 2026-27 focussing on providing equity, liquidity and professional support for the MSME ecosystem as a whole.

There are existing funds which provide equity support but majority of them focus on early-stage enterprises and cover majorly Micro enterprises. A structural gap exists for equity growth capital for Small and Medium Enterprises.

The landmark initiative reflects the Government’s commitment towards realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by strengthening India’s entrepreneurship ecosystem, deepening the domestic capital market for growth-stage enterprises, and creating a new generation of Indian companies capable of competing at the global level.

SMEs constitute the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to employment generation, exports, manufacturing output, and innovation. While various initiatives have enhanced access to credit for SMEs, a gap remains in the availability of long-term risk capital required by enterprises seeking to scale, innovate, expand internationally, adopt advanced technologies, undertake acquisitions, and transform into industry leaders. The SME Growth Fund is designed to address this critical financing gap by providing patient growth equity capital to high-potential SMEs with demonstrated business viability and scalability.

The Fund is envisioned as a transformational instrument to support enterprises at critical inflection points in their growth journey. Majority allocation from SGF will be made towards small and medium manufacturing focused enterprises. Fund will also consider SME’s operating in industrial clusters in Tier II and Tier III cities

By providing long-term capital, the initiative will enable Indian SMEs to scale operations, invest in technology and manufacturing capacity, expand into international markets, integrate into global value chains, and undertake strategic investments. The Government expects the Fund to accelerate the emergence of a strong pipeline of Indian companies with the scale, innovation capability, and competitiveness required to become champions in their respective sectors.

The Government’s commitment to the SME Growth Fund complements its ongoing efforts to strengthen the SME sector through reforms, digitalization initiatives, credit support mechanisms, ease of doing business measures, public procurement reforms, startup promotion initiatives, and production-linked incentive programmes.Under the initiative, the Government of India will provide an aggregate commitment of Rs.10,000 crore to the Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) established under the SGF framework. By enabling manufacturing enterprises to expand capacity, adopt advanced technologies and achieve greater scale, the SGF is expected to improve scale, productivity, and strengthen export competitiveness. Investments across industrial clusters, including those in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, will support balanced regional industrial development, reinforce local supply chains and generate high-quality employment opportunities.

With this initiative, the Government reaffirms its commitment to empowering India’s entrepreneurs and fostering a new generation of competitive enterprises. By catalysing investment in high-growth SMEs, the Fund will help create champions, drive innovation-led industrialization, and generate quality employment opportunities across the country. The initiative will serve as a key pillar in advancing the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047.

Shri Prasanta Mahapatra Appointed Executive Director at SEBI

Shri Prasanta Mahapatra took charge as Executive Director, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in Mumbai. He will handle the Corporation Finance Investigation Department and Recovery and Refund Department of SEBI.

Prior to his promotion as Executive Director, Shri Mahapatra was Chief General Manager and has handled diverse departments since joining SEBI in the year April 1999. He has served in various departments including Market Regulation Department, Investigation Department, Enquiries and Adjudication Department, Market Intermediaries Regulation and Supervision Department, Corporation Finance Department and Investment Management Department. He has also served at the Eastern Regional Office of the Board at Kolkata.

He has also been a member of various domestic policy making and advisory committees dealing with areas of mutual interest and cooperation with international Regulators.

Shri Prasanta Mahapatra holds Masters degree in Business Administration from Utkal University, Odisha.

Streamlined Stock Broker Inspections by SEBI in 2026

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) streamlines Stock Broker and Depository Participant inspections by mandating joint inspection by stock Exchanges and Depositories. Based on deliberations with Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs) and the Supervisory Body for IAs/RAs regarding the planning and conduct of joint inspections of market intermediaries by SEBI, an enhanced approach has been adopted for the inspection of intermediaries by SEBI commencing from the Financial Year 2026-27.

The regulatory oversight of market intermediaries has been strengthened by employing a dynamic approach to encompass new risk parameters for identifying and shortlisting of entities for inspections. For robust supervision, following steps are intended to collectively enhance Ease of Doing Business of the intermediaries, as a result of the rationalisation in the frequency of inspection visits.

  1. Considering the regular inspections of stock brokers, DPs, IAs and RAs done by Stock Exchanges and Depositories, the targeted number of inspections to be carried out by SEBI in the Financial Year 2026-27 has been rationalised to approximately one-third of the inspections conducted in the preceding Financial Year.
  2. Repetitive annual comprehensive inspections of compliant entities by SEBI, especially QSBs are being discontinued. However, entities that repeatedly feature across shortlisting parameters over time, carry high ‘risk scores’, or trigger multiple alerts processed by Exchanges are being prioritised.
  • Inspection of entities with multiple intermediary registrations are being conducted jointly by different departments of SEBI (wherever feasible), with an objective to reduce the number of inspection visits across the Financial Year.
  • Greater emphasis has been laid upon alerts generated by the Exchanges, complaints and social media to assign a higher weightage to recent instances of possible violations. Accordingly, shortlisting is being done on a quarterly basis.
  • Further, inspections are being undertaken based on market intelligence/references including inputs received from ROs/LOs, covering themes including but not limited to technical glitches, cyber incidents and Authorised Persons of stock brokers based on references received.

Trent Limited, the parent company of Zudio and Westside, saw its Q1 net profit rise 26% to ₹532 crore; shares climbed 3%.

Trent Ltd, the parent company of Zudio and Westside, reported a 26% rise in net profit to ₹532 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. Expanding its Westside and Zudio brands beyond metro cities helped Trent counter the pressure of rising raw material costs.

The company had posted a net profit of ₹423 crore during the same period last year.

Revenue from operations rose 18.5% to ₹5,666 crore in Q1FY27, compared to ₹4,781 crore in Q1FY26.

At 2:02 PM on August 6, Trent shares were trading 3% higher at ₹3,067.60 apiece.

During the April-June quarter, the company added 19 Zudio stores, bringing the total count to 982, and one Westside store, taking its total to 301.

Much-awaited SBI Funds Management Limited (SBIFM) IPO is here

Disclosure under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015

Updates on IPO of SBI Funds Management Limited

This is further to our letter no. CC/S&B/AND/2025-26/920 dated March 19, 2026 with regards to filing of the draft red herring prospectus dated March 19, 2026 by SBI Funds Management Limited (“SBIFM”), a subsidiary company of State Bank of India.

In this respect, we further advise as under:

We have been informed by SBIFM that it has filed a red herring prospectus dated July 8, 2026 with the Registrar of Companies, Mumbai – I at Mumbai (“RHP”), in relation to the proposed initial public offering of its equity shares of Rs. 1 (one) each (“Equity Shares”). This initial public offering is an offer for sale of up to 203,709,239 equity shares of face value of Rs. 1 (one) each, representing up to 10.0013% of its paid-up equity share capital for cash (“IPO” or “Offer”). The IPO comprises an offer for sale of up to 128,334,397 Equity Shares (amounting to 6.3007% of the paid-up equity share capital of SBIFM) by State Bank of India, and of up to 75,374,842 Equity Shares (amounting to 3.7006% of the paid-up equity share capital of SBIFM) by Amundi India Holding. The IPO remains subject to receipt of regulatory approvals, market conditions and other considerations.

Further, State Bank of India has been informed by SBIFM that, in compliance with applicable law, including, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Issue of Capital and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2018, Anchor Investors shall Bid one Working Day prior to the Bid/ Offer Opening Date, being Monday, July 13, 2026. Further, the Bid/Offer Period for QIBs will close one Working Day prior to the Bid/Offer Closing Date, i.e. Wednesday, July 15, 2026. IPO will be open for subscription by the public on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 and shall close on Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Dalmia Bharat to acquire Jaiprakash cement assets

Dalmia Bharat on Friday said it will acquire the cement assets of debt-ridden Jaiprakash Associates, which has been acquired by billionaire Gautam Adani-led Adani Enterprises through insolvency proceedings.

Dalmia Cement, a company owned by Dalmia Bharat, has signed a deal with Jaiprakash Associates to buy some of their assets. This deal is expected to be finished in just two weeks, according to a recent statement. The agreement they signed is called a Business Transfer Agreement, which means they are transferring some business from one company to another.

Following the takeover, Dalmia Bharat’s cement capacity will increase to 54.7 million tonne per annum (MTPA).
Dalmia Bharat has announced that they’ve signed a big deal, known as the BTA, to buy several cement plants. These plants are located in different parts of India – Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, and Churk, Chunar, and Sadwa in Uttar Pradesh. Together, they can produce a huge amount of cement, 5.2 million tons per year, and clinker, 3.3 million tons per year. The company is paying a whopping ₹2,850 crore for these plants, which is a significant investment. This move is likely to boost Dalmia Bharat’s presence in the cement industry and increase their production capacity.

The acquisition also includes 99 megawatts of thermal power capacity, along with a railway siding. Dalmia Bharat considers this deal a “strategic fit” because it will not only help the company diversify its market, but also reduce its dependence on any one region, making it less vulnerable to fluctuations in the market. This move is expected to bring more stability to the company’s operations.

Dalmia Bharat revealed that the funding will come from a combination of debt and internal accruals.

The company is working on some big projects to increase its cement production. It’s expanding its facilities in Belgaum, Pune, and Kadapa, which will help it make a lot more cement. By the second or third quarter of the financial year 2028, the company expects to be able to produce 66.7 million tons of cement per year.

Puneet Dalmia, the managing director and CEO of Dalmia Bharat, stated that their previous experience with these assets through a tolling arrangement has provided them with a thorough understanding of the facilities. This, he believes, will enable the company to establish a strong connection with its channel partners and vendors. As a result, Dalmia Bharat is confident that it will be able to quickly increase its production capacity and make rapid inroads into the market. With this existing knowledge, the company is well-positioned to hit the ground running and make the most of the new opportunities that lie ahead.

DCBL made a deal with JAL in December 2022, before things started going wrong, to sell its business assets. This deal included other important agreements, like a BTA and a contract to buy and sell cement.

These agreements were made to resolve all issues with JAL, including those related to their long-term contract for supplying clinker.

But before everything was finalized, JAL went bankrupt and the sale fell through.

On June 3, 2024, things took a turn for JAL when the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process was started. This happened after the Allahabad bench of the National Company Law Tribunal, or NCLT for short, agreed to look into a petition filed by ICICI Bank.

Later, NCLT approved Adani Enterprises’ ₹14,535 crore resolution plan to take over the bankrupt flagship firm.

After the resolution plan was approved, DCBL asked that the earlier agreement be taken into account to resolve all the outstanding issues with JAL.

₹73,882 Cr Order Book: Defence Stock With 2.7x Book-to-Bill Ratio to Buy for Long Term | Stock Update!

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna defence PSU which designs, develops and manufactures advanced electronic products and systems for the aerospace, defence and civilian sectors, is currently trading in focus following a massive order book of Rs. 73,882 crore. In this article, we try to find out whether this humongous order book can anchor strong multi-year revenue visibility for the compan

Market Capitalisation of BEL stands at Rs. 2,99,883.68 crores. The stock plunged 3.7% to hit a low of Rs. 407.10; off 7.04% from its day’s high and 3.2% from its intraday low; as compared to its closing price of Rs. 423.15 in yesterday’s session.

BEL order book 2026
Bharat Electronics Ltd stock is trading in focus as its robust order book reflects strong business visibility. The order book as of April 1, 2026 is valued at Rs 73,882 crore.

Market Capitalisation of BEL as on date is Rs. 2,99,883.68 crores. The stock closed lowest at Rs. 407.10 (down 3.7%) and also marked lowest decline of 7.04% from day’s high and 3.2% from intraday low compared to its closing price of Rs. 423.15 yesterday.

BEL order book 2026
Bharat Electronics Ltd stock is trading in focus as robust order book translates into strong business visibility. Order book as of April 1, 2026 is valued at Rs 73,882 crore.

We see from the book-to-bill ratio of 2.7x that the Company is securing a large amount of new orders, and this should translate into future multi-year revenues, all going well.

G Sachs and UBS who maintain a Buy rating on this name, note while near-term expectations are largely in the price, sustainability of order inflows into FY27 will be key to growth and re-rating however execution, margin preservation and winning orders will be crucial for future performance. While visibility is strong it’s not risk free.

Brokerage views
Goldman Sachs on BEL
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has been recommended by Goldman Sachs to ‘Buy’ with a target price of Rs475. The brokerage is of the view that BEL has strong order book which would translate into steady delivery in medium term and growth in long term.
Reason for the Target
A healthy book-to-bill ratio of 2.7x: The book-to-bill ratio is greater than 1 for the company, indicating high order inflows versus revenues which the company can convert and book into cash. For a growth stock such as BEL, the ratio indicates high growth momentum and expected high revenues in future, provided the company executes well.

Track Order growth and margin sustenance in FY27: Goldman Sachs would continue to monitor BEL’s growth in order volumes as also ability to sustain its margins in face of increased competition, higher costs and change in project mix.

Company has got healthy order book which translates into confirmed projects and hence good revenue visibility for next couple of quarters and will mitigate risk of any demand slowdown or poor execution.

In Line with Expectations – Street: The numbers were below our estimates for the quarter but better than the street’s estimates. Hence better than feared.

UBS on BEL
We have kept Bharat Electronics Limited in our UBS Buy list with Target Price of Rs. 500 based on strong order book, consistent execution and long term growth story.

Reason for the Target
Higher-than-expected order wins translate into exceeding Bharat’s FY26 growth guidance: The orders already in the pipeline are exceeding Bharat’s growth guidance for FY26 and will continue to drive growth for the company and its top line in subsequent years.

In the short term, there is limited up-side in the stock as it has already seen significant appreciation in price. Up-side would come in if company comes up with earnings upgrades or order surprises.

Key for stock re-rating is FY27 order pipeline: BEL’s stock price gain already largely incorporates positive news and therefore there is limited near-term upside unless BEL delivers on higher growth (than currently priced in) based on strong order booking for FY27.

Financials & Others
Revenues and Net profit of the Company increased by 11.75% to Rs. 10,224 crores and 4.85% to Rs. 2,226 crores respectively over corresponding period of previous year.

The company has delivered excellent growth over last 5 years with CAGR of 23.6%. BEL also has excellent return profile with ROCE of 36.5% and ROE of 27.6%. 3 year average ROE for the company stands at 27.8%. The company has zero debt-to-equity ratio which means debt free balance sheet. Additionally, the company also has healthy dividend payout of 34.5% which reflects the company’s growth and returns to shareholders.

Debt to Equity Ratio ‘0’ indicates BEL is a debt free company, Dividend Payout ratio of 34.5% reflects decent returns to shareholders and growth intent of management.

Bharat Electronics Limited, a public sector company of Government of India, is the largest manufacturer of advanced electronic products for defense and aerospace markets as well as for selected civilian applications such as for radars, communication systems, electronic warfare systems and defense electronics.

As the principal agency for design, development and manufacture of advanced electronic systems for military applications, BEL also meets requirements of select civilian sectors. The company plays a major role in strengthening the defense of the country by developing cutting edge technologies indigenously and also supports other sectors like non-defence electronics for applications in areas of homeland security, smart cities and strategic communication etc.

PhonePe Surpasses 50 Million Merchants: A Significant Leap in Digital Payments Across India

PhonePe has crossed 50 million lifetime registered merchants on its platform on April 28, the digital payments firm has said. The merchant base now spans over 98 percent of India’s postal codes, including small towns and rural markets.

The milestone comes as the company prepares to go public. PhonePe has filed an updated draft red herring prospectus (UDRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India and plans to launch an initial public offering subject to approvals and market conditions.

PhonePe started by offering QR code-based payment solutions to small businesses and gradually expanded its merchant offerings to include point-of-sale (POS) devices, smart speakers and access to loans. Its business app allows to manage payments and adopt additional services over time.

“Reaching 50 million merchants is a significant milestone in our effort to make financial services more accessible to merchants across India,” said Yuvraj Singh Shekhawat, chief business officer, merchant business at PhonePe.

The expansion has been supported by on-the-ground sales network and local-language support, which helped drive adoption among small businesses and kirana stores transitioning from cash-based transactions, the company said.

PhonePe operates across payments, lending, insurance distribution and other financial services, and competes with players such as Google Pay and Paytm in India’s digital payments market.

Founded in 2016, PhonePe operates across payments, financial services, and digital distribution. It competes with players such as Google Pay and Paytm in India’s digital payments market, where companies are looking to expand beyond payments into lending, insurance and wealth products to drive revenue.

NSE’s Big Bang: Now trades will be done in nanoseconds, trading speed will increase 1000 times

NSE will shift equities and equity derivatives to nanosecond response times from April 11, 2026, making Indian markets among the world’s fastest. The exchange is also scaling order-handling capacity to 100 million transactions per second, up from the current 5–6 million, and expanding co-location infrastructure two to three times. Real-time margin movement across segments has been enabled to improve capital efficiency. NSE is developing agentic AI with a global university and aligning its tech overhaul with India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act. New product launches include electricity contract-for-difference futures and 10-gram gold futures contracts aimed at retail investors.

All About Nanosecond Trading

Nanosecond trading is an ultra-high-frequency, algorithmic trading strategy where financial transactions are executed in billionths of a second (seconds), with the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) moving towards this, setting a new benchmark for speed. This technology utilizes specialized, low-latency hardware like FPGAs to exploit micro-arbitrage opportunities and market inefficiencies faster than competitors.

Key Aspects of Nanosecond Trading:

  • Speed and Efficiency: It represents the peak of low-latency trading, designed for near-instantaneous order execution.
  • Infrastructure: Uses ultra-fast networks and co-location, placing servers close to exchange matching engines to reduce delays.
  • Market Impact: The NSE (National Stock Exchange) plans to implement this, potentially processing millions of transactions per second to boost market efficiency.
  • Profit Mechanism: Firms aim for miniscule profits on high volumes, where a 3-nanosecond advantage can be worth millions.
  • Technology: Relies heavily on automated, pre-programmed algorithms and specialized Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology. Reddit +8

This technology is primarily utilized by high-frequency trading (HFT) firms and major exchanges to gain a competitive edge. 

Top 5 Stocks to Buy Now: Gain Up to 89% Returns!

Are you looking to maximize your investment potential? Analysts have identified five top-performing stocks poised for excellent growth, offering up to an impressive 89% return. This guide highlights crucial insights to help savvy investors discover lucrative opportunities in today’s dynamic market.

1. PVR Inox Ltd

PVR Inox Ltd has a robust market capitalization of Rs. 9,828.83 crore. Recently, its shares closed at Rs. 1,000.90, marking a 1.44% increase from the prior day’s closing price of Rs. 986.70.

ICICI Securities has issued a “Buy” rating for PVR Inox Ltd, with a target price set at Rs. 1,500 per share, indicating a potential upside of 49.86%.

Founded in 1991 and based in Gurugram, PVR INOX operates cinemas across India and Sri Lanka, focusing on movie exhibition, production, and distribution, along with cinema advertising and food services.

2. Cera Sanitaryware Limited

With a market cap of Rs. 6,659.13 crore, Cera Sanitaryware Limited shares closed at Rs. 5,163.10, up 2.17% from Rs. 5,053.60.

ICICI Securities has recommended a “Buy” rating for Cera Sanitaryware Ltd, projecting a potential upside of 37.98% with a target price of Rs. 7,124 per share.

Established in 1980, Cera Sanitaryware specializes in manufacturing sanitaryware products, tiles, and bathroom fittings, boasting a strong export presence as well.

3. Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited

Mahindra Lifespace Developers Limited, with a market capitalization of Rs. 7,881.96 crore, saw its shares close at Rs. 369.50, a decline of 1.44% from Rs. 374.90.

HDFC Securities has issued a “Buy” recommendation, setting a target price of Rs. 700, showcasing an upside potential of 89.45%.

Founded in 1994, Mahindra Lifespace focuses on real estate and infrastructure development, delivering residential and commercial projects throughout India.

4. Awfis Space Solutions Limited

Awfis Space Solutions Ltd has a market capitalization of Rs. 2,585.05 crore. Its shares closed at Rs. 361.50, dropping 3.17% from Rs. 373.35.

ICICI Securities recommends buying shares of Awfis Space Solutions, assigning a target price of Rs. 605, which suggests an expected upside of 67.36%.

Incorporated in 2014, Awfis provides flexible workspace solutions, including co-working and meeting spaces across India.

5. IRM Energy Limited

IRM Energy Ltd, with a market capitalization of Rs. 1,016.31 crore, concluded trading at Rs. 247.52, reflecting a 1.5% decline from the previous day’s close of Rs. 251.29.

HDFC Securities has launched a “Buy” call on IRM Energy, projecting a target price of Rs. 402, translating to an upside potential of 62.57%.

Founded in 2015, IRM Energy is a city gas distribution firm engaged in supplying natural gas to various consumers.

6. Trent Limited

Trent Limited, boasting a market capitalization of Rs. 1,45,572.12 crore, saw its shares close at Rs. 4,095, down by 0.88% from Rs. 4,131.30.

Renowned brokerage Motilal Oswal Financial Services has suggested a “Buy” call on Trent Limited, with a target price of Rs. 5,200, indicating a 26.21% upside potential.

Established in 1952, Trent Limited offers a vast range of products, including clothing, footwear, groceries, and more, operating under popular brands like Westside and Zudio.

3 Stocks Where FIIs Increased Their Stake by Up to 13% in January 2026

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) play a vital role in the global financial markets, including mutual funds, pension funds, hedge funds, and other large investment entities. Their substantial capital investments significantly impact market liquidity, price movements, and investment trends, contributing to economic growth and overall market development.

Top 3 Stocks with Increased FII Stake in January 2026

Here are the stocks where FIIs notably increased their holdings during January 2026:

1. W S Industries (India) Ltd

W S Industries (India) Ltd is a prominent player in the electrical equipment sector, specializing in the manufacturing of insulators and related products for power transmission and distribution networks. This company serves both domestic and international markets, supporting infrastructure development and grid expansion with high-voltage solutions. With a market capitalization of Rs 594 crore, the shares closed at Rs 78.3 per share, reflecting a decline of approximately 2.17% compared to the previous closing price.

In January 2026, FIIs raised their shareholding in W S Industries (India) Ltd by 13.07%, increasing their stake to 13.77% from 0.76% in December 2025. This surge highlights a significant rise in foreign investor participation. Meanwhile, promoters held 51.57%, and public shareholding stood at 34.57%, with domestic institutional investors (DIIs) maintaining a marginal stake of 0.09%.

2. Fineotex Chemical Ltd

Fineotex Chemical Ltd operates in the specialty chemicals sector, serving industries such as textiles, water treatment, construction, and more. Renowned for its innovative formulations and global reach, the company exports to various countries while emphasizing sustainable and value-added chemical solutions. With a market capitalization of Rs 2,654.70 crore, the shares closed at Rs 23 per share, showing a decrease of about 1.80% compared to the previous closing price.

As of January 2026, FII shareholding in Fineotex Chemical Ltd increased to 2.95% from 2.53% in December 2025, indicating a steady rise in foreign investor interest. Promoters maintained stable ownership at 62.30%, while DII participation stood at 1.27% and public shareholding accounted for 33.49%, illustrating a diversified investor base.

3. Fairchem Organics Ltd

Fairchem Organics Ltd is an established Indian specialty chemicals manufacturer focused on producing oleo chemicals and nutraceutical ingredients derived from vegetable oils. The company serves various industries, including food, personal care, polymers, and pharmaceuticals, prioritizing sustainable practices and value-added products while expanding its markets domestically and internationally. With a market capitalization of Rs 808 crore, the shares closed at Rs 620 per share, reflecting a decline of approximately 2.48% compared to the previous closing price.

In January 2026, FIIs increased their stake in Fairchem Organics Ltd by 0.18%, bringing their shareholding to 6.52% from 6.34% in December 2025. This modest rise signifies ongoing foreign investor interest. Promoters have strengthened their holdings to 63.25%, while DII ownership declined to 4.15%, and public shareholding stood at 26.06%, reflecting a balanced investor mix.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the activities of FIIs provide valuable insights into market trends and investment strategies. The increased stakes in these three stocks highlight growing confidence from foreign investors and underline their importance in shaping financial markets. Investors should consider these dynamics when making investment decisions.

ITI Share Price Surges to 52-Week High Amid Increased Trading Volume

ITI share price: Shares of PSU telecom company ITI rose as much as 6.92% to ₹316.15 apiece, hitting a 52-week high, in Tuesday’s trading session amid a spurt in trading volumes.

According to data available on NSE, around 20.1 lakh ITI shares changed hands so far in Tuesday’s session. On BSE, too, 4.33 lakh shares were traded, significantly higher than the two-week average of 56,000 shares.

There were no fundamental triggers behind the sharp upmove seen in the PSU stock today.

ITI recent developments

In an exchange filing on January 6, ITI said that Lt Gen Kanwar Vinod Kumar, Government Director, ceased to be the director of the company, upon reaching the age of superannuation on December 31, 2025.

“This is to inform that Lt Gen Kanwar Vinod Kumar, Government Director (DIN: 10366028), ceased to be the Director of the Company, upon attaining the age of superannuation on 31.12.2025,” the PSU company said in the filing.

Meanwhile, last month, on December 30, the company announced it had received a work order for the Ice Hockey Rink Project in Kaza, Lahaul & Spiti in the state of Himachal Pradesh, worth ₹72.76 crore.

Under the awarded contract, ITI will build a full-fledged Ice Hockey Rink along with a 500-kW solar power backup system, as well as install CCTV cameras, lighting and other associated accessories, ensuring a high-quality facility suitable for both players and spectators.

“This project is part of the broader effort to develop world-class sports infrastructure in the remote high-altitude region of Spiti Valley, which will complement ongoing initiatives under the High-Altitude Sports Training Centre scheme. With this investment, the local administration aims to boost sports opportunities, promote youth engagement, and develop sports tourism in the Lahaul & Spiti district, which is situated at high altitude of approx. 12,000 ft,” the company said in the filing.

ITI share price trend

ITI share price opened at ₹316.60 in the early morning session on Tuesday, as compared to the previous close of ₹296.10 on Monday and rose to the day’s peak of ₹316.15.

Despite today’s rise, the PSU stock has remained volatile in the near term, shedding 1% in the last six months and 25% in a year. However, the stock has given multibagger returns of whopping 145% in the last five years.

ITI share price is listed on both the BSE and NSE. The PSU multibagger stock hit a 52-week low of ₹233.20 on February 19, 2025. The market capitalisation of the PSU company stood at ₹30,315.98 crore, as of January 13, 2026.

Commodity Transaction Tax: Understanding Its Significance and Impact on Trading

In the world of finance, taxes play a crucial role, especially when it comes to trading commodities. One such tax is the Commodity Transaction Tax (CTT), introduced by the Government of India within the Budget of 2013-14, effective from July 1, 2013. This tax mirrors the Securities Transaction Tax (STT), particularly focusing on the commodity derivatives market. Let’s delve into the specifics of CTT, its implications for traders, and its overall significance.

What is Commodity Transaction Tax (CTT)?

Commodity Transaction Tax (CTT) refers to the tax that is levied on the trading of commodity derivatives. It specifically targets sellers of these derivatives, based on the actual contract size. Notably, the tax applies to non-agricultural commodities, including natural gas, crude oil, copper, silver, aluminium, gold, lead, nickel, and zinc. Importantly, agricultural commodities are exempt from this tax, safeguarding the interests of farmers and agricultural sectors.

CTT Rate in India

The CTT rate varies across different commodities. For instance:

  • Gold, silver, and crude oil are taxed at 0.01%.
  • Agricultural commodities remain exempt from this tax.

This taxation is applicable only on the selling side of futures contracts, which aims to create a balanced regulatory environment between commodity derivatives and securities trading. While CTT helps generate government revenue, it also raises the trading cost for non-agricultural commodities, impacting profitability, especially for high-frequency traders.

Calculating Commodity Transaction Tax

To compute the Commodity Transaction Tax, you can follow this straightforward formula:

CTT = Contract Value x CTT Rate

For example, if you sell a gold futures contract worth ₹1,00,000 at a tax rate of 0.01%, your CTT would be ₹10. Each commodity’s CTT may differ; thus, traders should be aware of these variations when planning their trades.

Types of Commodity Transaction Taxes

CTT is categorized into different types, based on the selling entity and the nature of the commodity:

Taxable CommoditiesPayable OnRatePayable By
Sale of a commodity derivativePrice at which the commodity derivative is traded0.01%Seller
Sale of commodity derivatives based on prices or indicesPrice at which the commodity derivative is traded0.01%Seller
Sale of an option on commodity derivativeOption premium0.05%Seller
Sale of option in goodOption premium0.05%Seller
Sale of an option on commodity derivative, where exercisedSettlement Price0.0001%Purchaser
Sale of option in goods, where exercised (actual delivery)Settlement Price0.0001%Purchaser
Sale of option in goods, exercised (settlement other than delivery)Difference between settlement price and strike price0.125%Purchaser

Objectives of Commodity Transaction Tax

Understanding the objectives of CTT is crucial for traders. Key aims include:

  • Revenue Generation: Enhances public revenue for the government, supporting essential services and development projects.
  • Discouragement of Speculative Trading: Limits speculation in non-agricultural commodities, promoting stability and responsible trading.
  • Level Playing Field: Ensures equitable taxation across asset classes, aligning commodity trading with securities trading regulations.
  • Regulatory Oversight: Enhances monitoring and surveillance of commodity transactions, improving regulatory frameworks.

Impact of CTT on Traders and Investors

The introduction of CTT has a profound impact on trading dynamics:

  • Increased Transaction Costs: CTT raises overall trading costs, squeezing profit margins, particularly for high-frequency traders.
  • Decreased Trading Volumes: The added expense may drive traders out of the market, leading to reduced liquidity and market activity.
  • Risk Management Adjustments: Traders must factor CTT into their trading strategies, influencing trade size and frequency.
  • Market Liquidity Challenges: A decline in trading activity can narrow bid-ask spreads, complicating entry and exit strategies for traders.

In conclusion, the Commodity Transaction Tax is a vital component of the trading landscape in India. By understanding its implications and incorporating it into trading strategies, investors can navigate the commodity market more effectively. Staying informed about CTT regulations and obligations is imperative for maintaining compliance and optimizing trading performance.

Grey Market Premium for Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. IPO

Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. IPO: What Investors Need to Know About the Grey Market Premium

The upcoming initial public offering (IPO) of Bharat Coking Coal Ltd. (BCCL), a subsidiary of Coal India, is generating significant buzz in the market as it approaches its launch later this week. Current indicators suggest that the grey market premium (GMP) for BCCL is showcasing strong potential listing gains.

Grey Market Premium Insights

On Tuesday, shares of Bharat Coking Coal were trading at a remarkable premium of up to 47.83% in the unofficial market. According to data from Investorgain, the GMP stands at Rs 11 per share, hinting at potential listing gains of approximately 54.78%. IPO Watch concurs with similar premiums, underscoring investor optimism.

Just a day earlier, the GMP had surged to nearly 70% following BCCL’s announcement of its price band, set between Rs 21 and Rs 23 per share. At the upper end of this price band, the company’s valuation exceeds Rs 10,700 crore, highlighting the strong market demand.

Key Dates for Investors

The BCCL IPO, marking the first public issue of 2026, is set to open for subscription on January 9 and close on January 13. Prior to this, anchor investor bidding will take place on January 8.

BCCL IPO Details

As detailed in the red herring prospectus, the total issue comprises an offer for sale of 46.57 crore equity shares by Coal India, amounting to approximately Rs 1,071.11 crore at the upper price band.

  • Retail Investors: 35% of the total shares are reserved for retail investors.
  • Existing Shareholders: 10% is earmarked for current shareholders of Coal India. Those holding shares on or before January 1, 2026, will qualify for this allocation.

The share allotment for the BCCL IPO is expected on January 14, with the official listing scheduled for January 16.

About Bharat Coking Coal Ltd.

Founded in 1972, Bharat Coking Coal is India’s largest producer of coking coal and one of the largest holders of coking coal reserves in the country, boasting estimated reserves of around 7,910 million tonnes as of April 1, 2024. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Coal India, BCCL was awarded ‘Mini Ratna’ status in 2014, a testament to its operational excellence and significant contributions to the coal sector.

Investors looking to tap into the opportunities presented by the Bharat Coking Coal IPO should stay informed and act swiftly as the subscription dates approach.

NSE Circular on Distribution of third-party products by Trading Members

Sub: Distribution of third-party products by Trading Members

This is with reference to Exchange Circular Ref No. NSE/INSP/68566 dated June 16, 2025 on “Distribution of Third-Party Products by Trading Members”. Clause (m) of the said Circular states as under:

“Brokers shall engage only in the lending products which are permitted by SEBI from time to time, such as MTF and T+1+5 funding.”

Subsequently, SEBI issued FAQs on Regulatory Provisions for Research Analysts through Circular Ref. No. SEBI/HO/MIRSD/MIRSD-POD/P/CIR/2025/105 dated July 23, 2025. Point 31(iii) of the FAQs clarifies:

“RA/research entity may carry out distribution of other products (such as banking products) not under purview of SEBI to their clients at family/group level. Any grievances related to such products shall not come under purview of SEBI.”

It has been observed that the trading members, who are also registered as research analysts, are carrying out distribution of Banking Products related to various types of loans.

In view of the above, it is hereby clarified that Stock Brokers, even if they are registered as research analysts, shall comply with the guidelines in respect of distribution/offering of third-party products as prescribed in the Exchange Circular Ref No. NSE/INSP/68566 dated June 16, 2025. As per the said framework, it is reiterated that Stock Brokers are not permitted to engage (as distributors) in any lending products (such as Home Loan, Vehicle Loan, Personal Loan, Education Loan, LAS etc.) other than those specifically permitted by SEBI from time to time.

SIP vs SWP: Smart Mutual Fund Strategy to Build Wealth and Generate Regular Monthly Income

SIP VS SWP – Lets manage our funds efficiently.

SIP- Systematic Investment Plan

We hear this term often. It is the most popular investment plan for professionals earning steady monthly cash flows. Let us understand this scheme in detail.

A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a methodical approach to investing in mutual funds that allows you to contribute a fixed amount of money at regular intervals—be it weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Rather than attempting to “time the market” or waiting for a large sum to become available, a SIP ensures you stay invested through various market cycles.

This disciplined habit not only helps in building a significant corpus over the long term but also offers the benefit of Rupee Cost Averaging. This means you automatically buy more units when the market price is low and fewer units when it is high, effectively lowering your average cost per unit over time.

What is mutual Fund–

At its core, a mutual fund is a collective investment vehicle that pools money from thousands of investors to purchase a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities. Instead of buying a single stock, you buy “units” of the fund, giving you instant ownership of a wide variety of assets.

Managed by professional fund managers, these funds offer individual investors access to expert market research and risk management that would be difficult to achieve alone. It is the most common way for everyday investors to build long-term wealth through diversification.

So, a Mutual Fund pools money from many of us to invest in a diversified mix of stocks and bonds. Managed by professionals, the fund is divided into units. The value of each unit is known as NAV (Net Asset Value).

Now we shall have an understanding on some key terms in SIP

Net Asset Value(NAV)– NAV is the “price tag” of a single unit in our mutual fund. It represents the current market value of one unit and is the price we use to buy or sell our shares in the fund.

SIP Start Date– The day our investment journey begins. Some fund houses have fixed dates, while others let us choose a date that suits our schedule..

SIP Amount– The fixed sum we decide to invest at each interval. This can be any amount that fits our budget and goals.

SIP frequency– How often our money is invested—common options include monthly, quarterly, or even weekly

SIP End Date– The date we decide to stop our regular payments to the mutual fund, marking the completion of our investment cycle.

Lets understand two different types of SIP

Regular SIP

Under this plan, an individual invests a fixed amount of money into mutual fund schemes at regular, predetermined intervals. It is the most straightforward way to build a disciplined investment habit over time.

Step UP SIP

As our career grows and our income increases, our investment should too. This plan allows us to increase our fixed installment amount over time. Compared to a regular SIP, this “upgrade” helps us to build a much larger corpus to reach your financial goals faster.

Let us understand with a simple example

SIP InvestorLump Sum Investor
MonthAmount InverstedPrice per unitUnits BoughtAmount investedUnits Bought
Jan-2420,000219521,20,0005,714
Feb-2420,000201,000  
Mar-2420,000191,053  
Apr-2420,00021952  
May-2420,000201,000  
Jun-2420,00022909  
Total Amount Invested1,20,000  1,20,000 
Averae Price per unit20.5  21 
Total Units Bought5,866  5,714 
Total amount after  months @ 221,29,063  1,25,708 

Now Lets have an understanding on SWP

SWP- Systematic Withdrawal Plan

Once we have built a significant corpus through our SIP, particularly as we reach a goal like retirement, we are faced with two primary choices for accessing our money.

Lump sum Withdrawal: We can choose to withdraw the entire accumulated amount all at once.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Alternatively, we can choose to withdraw our money in regular installments, typically every month.

By opting for an SWP, we systematically move a fixed amount from our mutual fund investment into our bank account each month. This provides us with a steady flow of funds while the remaining balance continues to stay invested in the market.

Let us understand with a simple example

Value of Mutual fund of Mr X at the time of retirement is Rs 30,00,000 lakhs rupees

He wants to withdraw Rs 20,000 per month

MonthNAVSWP AmountNo of UnitsBal No of UnitsRemaining corpus value
April500– 600030,00,000
May50520,00039.605,96030,10,000
June51020,00039.225,92130,19,802
July51520,00038.835,88230,29,408
August50420,00039.685,84329,44,702
September49620,00040.325,80228,77,961

The same calculation is applicable for the balance period.

So, when is SIP or SWP is more suitable.

While earning a steady income, a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is the ideal way to build wealth. Conversely, once a steady income stops—such as during retirement—a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) becomes the preferred choice to ensure a consistent cash flow.

What category of Mutual fund to choose

For long-term goals (20–30 years away), Equity Mutual Funds are generally better for wealth appreciation. However, as we approach retirement and require regular income, shifting toward Debt Mutual Funds is advisable to prioritize capital preservation and stability.

The Author is Kundana is a Qualified Chartered Accountant with expertise in finance, accounting, and taxation. Passionate about writing, she simplifies complex financial and business topics into clear, engaging, and insightful content.

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Lenskart’s IPO is under fire from investors and social media alike

Lenskart’s IPO is raising eyebrows with a 70,000 crore valuation and an eye-popping 235 PE ratio. When asked, “What value is left for new investors?” CEO Peyush Bansal said, “We create value for customers, not shareholders.” But social media erupted in criticism. Investors question if the stock’s sky-high price reflects real growth, especially after Bansal bought back shares at a ₹8,700 crore valuation months ago.

This situation surrounding Lenskart’s IPO is a major topic of debate, with criticism centering on the sky-high valuation and perceived lack of value for new public investors.

Here is a breakdown of the key points driving the controversy, based on your information and market reports:

1. 📈 Excessive Valuation Metrics

  • ₹70,000 Crore Valuation: Critics question if this massive valuation is justified for an eyewear retail company, comparing it unfavorably to the overall size of the Indian eyewear market.
  • 235 Price-to-Earnings (P/E) Ratio: A P/E of 235 is extremely high, suggesting that investors are pricing in several years of exponential future growth. This is the primary trigger for the “sky-high price” concern, as it indicates the stock is very expensive relative to its current profits.
    • Note: Reports suggest the profit in the most recent fiscal year was heavily influenced by one-time, non-operating gains, making the valuation appear even steeper when adjusting for core earnings.

2. 💬 CEO’s “Customer Value” Comment

CEO Peyush Bansal’s direct quote, “We create value for customers, not shareholders,” has fueled the social media and investor backlash.

  • Investor Concern: In the context of an IPO, this statement is seen as dismissive of public market expectations, where the primary goal of the issue is to provide returns and value to shareholders.
  • Social Media Criticism: Bansal, known for grilling founders on valuation on the show Shark Tank India, has been widely trolled. Critics argue he is applying a double standard, being valuation-conscious as an investor but dismissive as a founder listing his own company.

3. ⏱️ Valuation Discrepancy and Founder Gains

Investors are highly skeptical of the rapid increase in the company’s valuation right before the IPO:

  • Recent Share Buyback: The fact that Bansal bought back shares months ago at a significantly lower valuation (around ₹8,700 crore) and is now listing the company at ₹70,000 crore (an approximately 8x jump) suggests an immense windfall for existing promoters and early investors, but leaves little margin of safety or immediate value for new public investors.
  • Offer for Sale (OFS): A significant portion of the IPO is an Offer for Sale, where existing shareholders (including promoters and early investors) sell their shares and pocket the proceeds, rather than the money going entirely into the company for growth. This is viewed by some as an “exit” opportunity for early backers at the expense of retail investors.

The core of the criticism is that Lenskart is seeking an IPO price that has already priced in several years of potential growth, making it an “expensive bet” where the biggest gains have already been locked in by the founders and early investors.


Would you like to know more about the financial performance Lenskart is using to justify this valuation, such as their revenue growth or profitability history?

The Impact of Tax Amendments on Infosys’ Share Buyback Decision

When promoters of Infosys Ltd – including NR Narayana Murthy, Sudha Murthy and Nandan Nilekani, among others – decided to opt out of the company’s ongoing share buyback programme despite the offer carrying a hefty premium of more than Rs 300 per share over the prevailing market price, everyone was curious what the reason could be.

Experts claim the decision was driven by tax consideration as participating in the buyback offer would result in steep tax implications for individual shareholders.

On September 11, 2025, Infosys announced a buyback of equity shares at Rs1,800 per share, compared with the market price of Rs1,510 on that date. The stock currently trades at around Rs 1,523 implying a premium of RS 277 per share under the buyback offer.

Now vs then

While the offer looks attractive on paper, an amendment in tax laws pertaining to taxation of gains from buybacks in the Budget 2024 has changed the dynamics. As a result of the amendment in Section 2(22) of the Income Tax Act, any payment made by a company to buy back its own shares is now deemed as ‘dividend income’ in the hands of shareholders, and is taxed at slab rates.

Earlier, any listed domestic company that buys back its own shares is liable to pay additional income tax on the distributed income at an effective tax rate of 23.296% of distributed income [Rate of tax – 20% (plus surcharge @ 12% plus Health and education cess @ 4%)]. The tax was applicable on the difference between the amount paid by the company on account of buyback and the amount received by the company for the issue of such shares.

However, an amendment in Budget 2024 changed everything. Now, individual shareholders who opt for the buyback offer have to pay the tax on the entire amount received (and not on the difference between the sale and purchase price.

In case of Infosys buyback offer, a resident individual shareholders will be taxed on the entire Rs 1,800 received per share as dividend income, without any deduction for the purchase cost of the shares. For those with annual income exceeding RS 1 crore, the effective tax rate is 35.88%, resulting in a tax liability of about Rs 646 per share. This leaves a net post-tax amount of Rs1,154 per share in the hands of the investor.

By contrast, if a shareholder sells the shares on the open market, the gains are taxed as long-term capital gains at an effective rate of 14.95% (including surcharge and cess). Assuming a historical purchase price of Rs 100 per share, the tax on a gain of Rs 1,423 would be roughly Rs 213, leaving a net post-tax amount of ₹1,210 per share.

This means that even though the buyback offers a Rs 277 premium over market price, a resident individual shareholder would end up Rs 56 per share worse off post-tax compared to selling in the open market.

Tax experts say this is the primary reason Infosys promoters have chosen not to participate in the buyback. “The new tax rules effectively neutralise the benefit of the premium being offered,” says Ved Jain, a chartered accountant and a senior tax consultant.

However, non-resident shareholders stand to benefit substantially from the buyback. Under various Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements (DTAAs), dividend income for non-residents is taxed at concessional rates ranging from 5% to 20%.

Delta Air Lines Stock Soars with Rising Relative Strength Rating

Delta Air Lines Stock Sees RS Rating Fly Higher

IBD’s proprietary RS Rating identifies technical performance by showing how a stock’s price action over the last 52 weeks compares to that of the other stocks in our database.

History reveals that the best stocks often have an 80 or higher RS Rating in the early stages of their moves. See if Delta Air Lines stock can continue to show renewed price strength and hit that benchmark.

Is Delta Air Lines Stock A Buy?

Delta Air Lines stock is trying to complete a flat base with a 63.91 entry. See if the airline stock can break out in volume at least 40% above average.

Earnings grew 14% last quarter, up from -11% in the prior report. Revenue also increased, from 0% to 6%.

Delta Air Lines stock earns the No. 3 rank among its peers in the Transportation-Airline industry group. Ryanair Holdings ADR (RYAAY) is the top-ranked stock within the group. For more industry news, check out “Airline Industry News And Stocks To Watch.”

Delta Air Lines (DAL) Stock: Relative Strength Rating Fly Higher

Delta Air Lines (DAL) recently experienced a notable improvement in its Relative Strength (RS) Rating, a key technical indicator developed by Investor’s Business Daily (IBD).

The RS Rating Increase

The stock’s RS Rating climbed significantly from 64 to 73.

  • What this means: The Relative Strength Rating measures a stock’s price performance over the past 52 weeks compared to all other stocks in the market. A rating of 73 means that Delta Air Lines’ stock has outperformed 73% of all other stocks in terms of price action over the past year.
  • Significance: An improvement of this magnitude signals increasing investor confidence and confirms that DAL is demonstrating superior price strength relative to the broader market. It often draws the attention of momentum investors looking for leading stocks.

Driving Factors Behind the Strength

The upward shift in the stock’s relative strength is fundamentally backed by strong business execution and recent financial performance:

  1. Strong Third-Quarter (Q3 2025) Results: Delta reported better-than-expected adjusted earnings per share and revenue for the quarter. This solid performance defied some earlier industry challenges.
  2. Raised Full-Year Guidance: Following the Q3 beat, Delta raised its full-year earnings and free cash flow guidance. This forward-looking positivity reinforces the bullish sentiment.
  3. Robust Premium and Corporate Travel: A key driver of the company’s success is the strength of its high-margin segments. Revenue from premium cabins (like Comfort Plus and Delta One) and corporate sales continue to show robust growth, showcasing the success of Delta’s focus on the high-end consumer.

The jump in the RS Rating confirms that institutional investors are bidding up the price of DAL as it emerges as a leader within the airline sector, successfully navigating industry headwinds with strong operational and financial metrics.

Portal Rollout Soon for Speedy Transfer of Unclaimed Shares

Move to Help Investors Settle Claims Faster: IEPFA to Get New Chief Executive Soon

New Delhi: The corporate affairs ministry is set to launch a much-awaited integrated portal this month aimed at expediting the transfer of old unclaimed shares and dividends to investors. This move comes after nearly two years of planning, preparation, and testing, according to people familiar with the details.

The upcoming portal will empower investors to check and submit claims directly through it. Shares, dividends, and matured debentures that remain unclaimed for seven years are transferred by companies to the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA) under the corporate affairs ministry.

In addition to the new portal, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, led by the Prime Minister, has also approved the creation of a chief executive position for the IEPFA. Currently, the authority is headed by Anita Shah Akella, a joint secretary in the ministry, who manages these responsibilities alongside her other duties.

These latest initiatives are part of the government’s broader efforts to reduce delays in the transfer of old unclaimed shares and dividends. By leveraging technology, reforming processes as necessary, and strengthening personnel at the IEPFA, the administration seeks to enhance operational efficiency.

The new CEO position may be filled by someone from the private sector or another branch of the government. This individual will need to work under the ministry, as one insider noted, “Given that senior officers from the ministry already have their hands full with their usual workload, the government recognized the necessity of having a dedicated CEO for the IEPFA.

Portal Features

The portal, which was first announced by Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her February 2023 budget speech, is expected to integrate data within the MCA-21 mechanism for corporate filings, depositories, and the public finance management system.

With this new development, investors will be able to submit claims easily, while the application programming interface will help reduce duplicate processes. Additionally, the entire refund process will be expedited, and the potential for malpractices will be minimized by limiting human interactions.

JSW Motors talks tech tie-up with BYD, other China car cos

JSW Motors to Invest ₹26,000 Crore and Launch 25 Models in Five Years

New Delhi: Steel magnate Sajjan Jindal’s fully-owned car venture, JSW Motors, is in talks with BYD, the world’s largest EV maker, alongside other Chinese companies such as Geely, Chery, Xiaomi, Nio Auto, and Li Auto for platform and component access. The Indian company has earmarked nearly ₹26,000 crore for investment over the next five years as it enters the competitive passenger vehicle segment.

JSW Motors plans to launch its vehicles next year, aiming for a debut before June from a new factory in Maharashtra. The company is set to introduce a total of 25 new models by 2030. Additionally, it is in discussions with European manufacturers like Volkswagen and Renault as it seeks alliances and partnerships for enhanced access to platforms and components, as CEO Ranjan Nayak revealed in an interview with TOI.

The partnership negotiations with BYD, which is currently importing its cars to India and incurring heavy customs duties, have been ongoing. Nayak stated that JSW is also open to manufacturing vehicles for the Chinese giant at its Maharashtra facility, which is projected to have a production capacity of 500,000 units per annum.

“I met the BYD teams even last month. I had talks with them, and they can also leverage the Indian ecosystem,” Nayak explained. JSW Motors does not seek an equity partnership in this new venture, contrasting with its joint venture with SAIC for JSW MG Motor, reflecting a shift in geopolitical dynamics. India could potentially serve as an export hub for global markets, where BYD can manufacture, localize, and export to the US and Europe.

Nayak emphasized, “What we are looking at through the talks with various companies is access to components, core technology, and car platforms. We want to bring the technology here and localize it. Brutal localization is our aim. Whoever aligns with this goal is someone we are ready to collaborate with. The partner will share the tech and will be remunerated both upfront and through royalties. We don’t want to be locked up with one partner.”

Regarding product offerings in India, JSW Motors is concentrating on electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and range extenders. SUVs will be the favored body type we target, although there are plans for a premium sedan around 2027. The average price of our initial cars will be ₹22-25 lakh; subsequently, we will venture into the mass segment aimed at fleets and taxis, which could include hatchbacks priced around ₹8-9 lakh,” Nayak concluded.

IPO for VMS TMT Ltd Open Today

The IPO for VMS TMT Ltd. opened today, September 17, 2025, with the company aiming to raise ₹148.50 crore through a fresh issue of 1.50 crore shares. The IPO will remain open for subscription until September 19, 2025. The company has set a price band of ₹94 to ₹99 per share, with a minimum lot size of 150 shares.


Company Overview

VMS TMT Ltd. is an Ahmedabad-based steel company primarily engaged in the manufacturing of Thermo Mechanically Treated (TMT) bars, a key component in the construction industry. The company also sells billets, binding wires, and scrap. VMS TMT operates a manufacturing facility in Bhayla village, Gujarat, and has a retail license agreement with Kamdhenu Limited, allowing it to market its products under the “Kamdhenu NXT” brand in Gujarat. The company’s revenue is heavily concentrated in the Gujarat market, which accounted for over 98% of its sales in the last fiscal year.


Financials and IPO Details

The IPO is entirely a fresh issue, with the proceeds intended to be used for repayment or prepayment of certain borrowings (₹115 crore) and for general corporate purposes. This move is aimed at reducing the company’s high debt-to-equity ratio.

Here are the key financial and IPO details:

While the company has seen an improvement in its profitability, with profit after tax rising from ₹4.20 crore in FY23 to ₹15.42 crore in FY25, its revenue has declined in the most recent fiscal years.


Subscription Status and Market Outlook

On its first day, the VMS TMT IPO has been well-received by investors. The issue was subscribed over 2.80 times, with strong demand from all investor categories. The Grey Market Premium (GMP) for VMS TMT shares has also been positive, indicating a potential listing gain. However, investors should be aware that GMP is an unofficial indicator and can be volatile.

Analysts have noted the company’s strong brand association with Kamdhenu, its backward integration, and its focused regional presence as key strengths. However, they also point to the high debt levels and concentrated geographic market as potential risks. While the IPO is seen as aggressively priced based on its valuations compared to peers, some analysts recommend it for well-informed, long-term investors.

Why Your SIP Returns May Be Lower Than Expected

A recent LinkedIn post by CA Abhishek Walia sheds light on a significant issue that many investors face: the impact of behavior on investment returns. Consider the case of a salaried investor who diligently invested Rs 18,000 a month into mutual fund Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) for four years. Despite putting in this effort, the investor discovered that his actual returns were lower than those offered by traditional fixed deposits.

Initially, the investor believed he was making sound decisions, as his funds exhibited a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11%. However, upon calculating the portfolio’s Extended Internal Rate of Return (XIRR)—the true measure of his returns—it became evident that he was only achieving a meager 6%. This is notably less than the 7% interest rate provided by fixed deposits over the same period.

What Went Wrong?

The post reveals that the fundamental issue wasn’t with the mutual funds themselves but rather the investor’s behavior. The SIPs commenced in mid-2019 but were paused for 10 months during the COVID-19 pandemic before resuming in 2021. Throughout this time, the investor made several fund switches in pursuit of “top performers,” influenced by their rankings.

In mid-2022, the investor redeemed Rs 2.2 lakh during a market dip, citing a short-term need, and re-entered the same fund six months later. Such actions led to significant missed opportunities for compounding during market recoveries and resulted in purchasing units at inflated prices. While the fund maintained an 11% return for those who remained invested, the investor’s timing decisions diminished his portfolio return to just 6%.

The Takeaway

Walia emphasizes a crucial lesson for all investors: “Investors need to understand that our investment returns aren’t what the fund earns; they’re what you allow compounding to do.” He further cautions that even the most “perfect” fund cannot shield an investor from the consequences of poor timing, hasty changes, or emotionally-driven exits.

His advice is clear: stick to the fundamentals. Commit to an investment horizon of at least five to seven years, automate your investments, and resist the temptation to make decisions based on short-term market fluctuations. “Your wealth is built in the market’s time, not your timing,” Walia asserts.

This case serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of checking XIRR—the true measure of individual investment returns—rather than solely relying on overall fund performance. For many investors, the pursuit of returns or interruptions in SIPs can prove more costly than maintaining a steady investment course through times of market volatility.

Regaal Resources IPO Allotment Finalized Amidst High Subscription Rates

The allotment of shares for the initial public offering (IPO) of Regaal Resources was finalized on Monday, August 18, 2025, after an impressive subscription rate during its three-day bidding process. Attracting substantial interest from a diverse range of investors, this IPO has emerged as one of the most sought-after offerings of the season.

The IPO opened for subscription on August 12 and closed on August 14, 2025. It witnessed massive investor participation, with the overall issue being subscribed an astonishing 159.87 times.

In detail, the retail category was subscribed 57.75 times, while qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), excluding anchor investors, subscribed an impressive 190.96 times. Non-institutional investors (NIIs) showed the highest response, subscribing at a rate of 356.72 times by the closing day.

How to Check IPO Allotment Status

Investors who applied for the IPO can check their allotment status through the BSE website or the registrar’s platform, MUFG Intime India Private Limited (formerly known as Link Intime India Pvt Ltd). There are two ways to check the status:

On the BSE Website:

  1. Visit the BSE IPO allotment page.
  2. Select ‘Equity’ and choose ‘Regaal Resources Limited’ from the drop-down list.
  3. Enter your application number and PAN.
  4. Input the captcha code and click ‘Search’ to view your allotment status.
  1. Go to the Link Intime IPO allotment page.
  2. Select ‘Regaal Resources Limited’ from the options.
  3. You can search using your Application Number, Demat Account Number, or PAN.
  4. Enter the details, fill in the captcha code, and click ‘Submit’ to see your results.

Grey Market Premium (GMP) and Listing Date

The grey market premium (GMP) for Regaal Resources has shown stability with a slight increase in recent sessions. As of August 18, 2025, at 9:59 AM, the last reported GMP stood at Rs 26. With a price band of Rs 102 per share, this translates to an estimated listing price of Rs 128, indicating a potential gain of around 25.49% per share for investors.

Following the allotment finalization, refunds for unsuccessful applicants will be processed, while successful bids will result in shares being credited directly to their demat accounts. The shares of Regaal Resources are set to be listed on both the BSE and NSE on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

Top 10 Billionaires of 2025: Gains and Insights

2025, several billionaires have experienced a remarkable surge in their fortunes, largely driven by gains in technology, luxury goods, finance, and real estate. The most significant increase was observed among those with stake in longstanding investment conglomerates, booming consumer tech companies, and quantitative trading firms. One trend this year that stood apart is the renewed investor confidence in traditional sectors like telecommunications and manufacturing. Collectively, the top-10 billionaires on the list added billions to their net worth, reinforcing their position in the upper ranks of the global wealth hierarchy.

No 1. Warren Buffett | Global Rank: 4 | Net worth: $166.9B | YTD gain: $24.9 billion) | The Legendary investor has added $24.9 billion to his fortune in 2025, fuelled by strong gains in Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio. His wealth surge has solidified his position among the world’s top five richest individuals.

No 2. Françoise Bettencourt Meyers | Global Rank: 19 | Net Worth: $91.4 Billion | YTD Gain: $16.9 billion | L’Oréal heiress Bettencourt Meyers saw her net worth climb by $16.9 billion this year, making her the wealthiest woman globally. Her family’s beauty empire has benefited from a continued boom in global luxury and skincare markets. 

No 3. Zhang Yiming | Global Rank: 24 | Net Worth: $57.5B | YTD Gain: $13.6 billion | TikTok founder Zhang Yiming has gained $13.6 billion so far in 2025, driven by ByteDance’s strong performance and potential IPO speculation. His ascent reaffirms the dominance of tech entrepreneurs in wealth creation

No 4. Jeff Yass | Global Rank: 23 | Net Worth: $58.8B | YTD Gain: $12.9 billion | Quant trading billionaire Jeff Yass has seen a $12.9 billion increase in wealth, powered by the success of Susquehanna International Group. His savvy investments in tech and betting platforms continue to pay off handsomely

No 5. Carlos Slim: Global Rank: 18 | Net Worth: $92.3B | YTD Gain: $12.8 billion | Mexican business magnate Carlos Slim added $12.8 billion to his fortune, benefiting from a resurgence in telecom and infrastructure sectors. His diverse holdings have helped him maintain a strong position among Latin America’s richest.

No 6. Giovanni Ferrero and Family:  Global Rank: 29 | Net Worth: $46.7B | YTD Gain: $10.9B) | Head of the Ferrero confectionery empire, Giovanni Ferrero has seen his wealth grow by $10.9 billion in 2025. The maker of Nutella and Kinder continues to expand globally, fuelling his rising fortune

No 7. Mukesh Ambani | Global Rank: 16 | Net Worth: $101.0B | YTD Gain: $10.4B | The Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani has gained $10.4 billion this year amid strong performance in digital, retail, and energy segments. He remains Asia’s wealthiest individual, crossing the $100 billion mark again.

No 8. Lei Jun | Global Rank: 37 | Net Worth: $39.8B | YTD Gain: $10.1 billion | Xiaomi founder Lei Jun has added $10.1 billion to his net worth thanks to surging demand for the company’s new smartphone and EV lines. His wealth rebound signals a strong year for Chinese tech.(Image: Reuters)

No 9. Hussain Sajwani | Global Rank: 185 | Net Worth: $13.1B | YTD Gain: $9.8 Billion) | The Dubai property mogul Hussain Sajwani has experienced a $9.8 billion jump in wealth, reflecting a booming real estate market in the UAE. His company, DAMAC Properties, has capitalised on rising luxury housing demand. (Image: Reuters)

No 10. Wang Ning | Global Rank: 134 | Net Worth: $16.4B | YTD Gain: $8.8 billion | Pop Mart founder Wang Ning saw his fortune rise by $8.8 billion, fuelled by the company’s global expansion and merchandising success. His gains highlight the rising appeal of designer toys and collectibles.

Gold vs Silver: What to Invest on Akshaya Tritiya 2025

Gold prices traded lower on Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) Wednesday, tracking a decline in interest bullion prices, pressurised by a firmer US dollar and easing global trade tensions. MCX gold rate fell by over ₹500 on Akshaya Tritiya and was trading near ₹95,000 per 10 grams level.

As Indians celebrate Akshaya Tritiya on April 30, 2025 — a festival synonymous with prosperity and auspicious beginnings — the glitter of gold once again takes centre stage. But for investors, this year’s question isn’t just about tradition: Is gold still a good investment, or has silver stolen the spotlight?

Gold Shines Bright: Over 100% Returns in Five Years

According to data from Kedia Advisory, gold has delivered an impressive CAGR of over 14.85% in the past five years, with prices rising from ₹47,677 per 10 grams in April 2020 to ₹95,592 in April 2025 — a jump of more than 100%. The latest annual return stands at 31.44%, highlighting the yellow metal’s resilience amid global uncertainty.

Jigar Trivedi, Senior Research Analyst at Reliance Securities, points out that gold price rally — 13% in 2023, 27% in 2024, and already 26% in 2025 — has been driven by a cocktail of macroeconomic factors. These include a weakening US dollar, geopolitical risks, safe-haven buying, and central bank accumulation. However, Trivedi warns that the key tailwinds behind this rally are beginning to fade, suggesting a possible period of consolidation ahead.

Ajay Kedia, Director of Kedia Advisory, shares a similar cautionary tone.

“Gold has delivered an impressive return of about 32% since the last Akshaya Tritiya. However, for the year ahead, it is advisable to buy gold only for ceremonial purposes and not with an investment motive, as returns are expected to moderate around 6–7%, in line with inflation,” Kedia said.

Kedia attributes this expected gold price cool-off to easing geopolitical tensions — notably between Russia-Ukraine and Iran-US — as well as a shift in trade policies from confrontation to resolution. As a result, Kedia forecasts MCX gold rates could retrace towards ₹86,000 – ₹87,000 levels.

Silver: The Sleeping Giant Poised to Rally?

While gold has been on a tear, silver is now emerging as a strong contender for investor attention. From Akshaya Tritiya 2024 to Akshaya Tritiya 2025, silver prices have surged 15.62%, and the five-year CAGR from April 2020 is equally impressive at nearly 20%, thanks to a bumper year in 2021 when prices spiked 69.04%.

Ajay Kedia believes silver holds stronger upside potential, driven by robust industrial demand — especially from sectors like solar energy, electronics, and green technologies.

“Buy gold for shubhlabh (auspiciousness), but buy silver for returns,” he advises.

Jigar Trivedi echoes this sentiment, citing the gold-silver ratio crossing 100 — well above the historical average of 70 — as a clear sign that silver is significantly undervalued.

“This level implies that either silver is significantly undervalued or that gold has become overvalued. Given the scale of gold’s recent appreciation and the potential for increased volatility, a pullback in gold prices or a sharp move higher in silver prices could occur. Our base case is that silver will remain steady or gain further while gold sees some consolidation. In this context, silver offers a more attractive entry point and relative value opportunity,” Trivedi said.

Gold Still a Safe Haven — But Not Without Caveats

Despite expectations of cooling, gold’s role as a hedge against uncertainty and inflation remains intact. Dr. Sagnik Bagchi, Assistant Professor at the School of Business Management, says, “Akṣaya Tritiya symbolizes the idea of something that never diminishes, and gold fits that philosophy. It remains a reliable and stable asset, particularly for risk-averse investors.”

Bagchi adds that a weakening rupee, accommodative monetary policies, and ongoing global disruptions continue to bolster gold’s long-term appeal.

Bottom Line: What Should You Buy on Akshaya Tritiya 2025?

If you’re buying gold for tradition and emotional value, this Akshaya Tritiya is as good a time as any. However, if you’re looking purely from an investment perspective, experts suggest silver may offer better upside in the short to medium term.

In conclusion, gold continues to offer stability, but silver may be the better bet for those seeking growth. As always, balance is key — diversify wisely and invest with clarity of purpose.

Stock Market Holiday on Maharashtra Day: What Investors Need to Know

Amid the volatile trade session on Dalal Street, some Indian stock market observers and investors might feel confused about whether trade activity will occur tomorrow. The primary reason for this confusion is the Maharashtra Day celebrations across the state on 1 May 2025. As Maharashtra Day is a state holiday commemorating the formation of the State of Maharashtra in India, the BSE and National Stock Exchange (NSE), which are based in the capital of Maharashtra, are expected to celebrate the state holiday. Therefore, some stock investors and Dalal Street observers are confused about whether there will be a stock market holiday on Thursday or whether trade activity will continue as usual on 1 May 2025.

To avoid confusion, investors and stock market observers are advised to look at the stock market holidays 2025 list on the official BSE website — bseindia.com. On top of the website, one can click on the Trading Holidays toolbar. Find out the list of stock market holidays in 2025. This list mentions that the Indian stock market will remain closed on 1 May 2025 for Maharashtra Day 2025. This means NSE and BSE will remain closed on Thursday.

This means there will be no trading activity on Thursday. According to the stock market holidays 2025 list, available on the BSE website—bseindia.com—trading in the Equity Segment, Equity Derivative Segment, and SLB Segment will remain closed on 1 May 2025. Trade activity in the Currency Derivatives Segments will also remain suspended on Thursday. Trading in the NDS-RST and Tri-Party Repo segments will also remain closed tomorrow.

In the Commodity Derivatives Segment and Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR) Segment, trading activity will remain closed during the morning shift from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, trading will resume at 5:00 PM on Thursday after Wednesday’s usual closing time.

Stock market holidays in May 2025

Maharashtra Day will be the only stock market holiday in May 2025. This means this week will once again be a truncated week for the Indian stock market, as the holiday falls on Thursday this week for Maharashtra Day celebrations.

Stock Market Holidays 2025

There will be no stock market holidays in June and July 2025, as the next stock market holiday after 1 May 2025 is 15 August 2025, which is Independence Day. In August 2025, one more stock market holiday will be after Independence Day, which is Ganesh Chaturthi, which is 27 August 2025.

Three stock market holidays will fall in October 2025 — 2 October 2025 for Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti / Dussehra, 21 October 2025 for Diwali, and 22 October 2025 for Diwali Balipratipada. After this, two more stock market holidays will fall in 2025: 5 November 2025 for Prakash Gurpurb Sri Guru Nanak Dev and 25 December 2025 for Christmas.

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.

Gold Prices Drop for Akshaya Tritiya 2025

There is good news for people seeking to buy gold on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya this year. The price of the yellow metal opened lower today due to a stable US Dollar and eased worries over the economic fallout of Donald Trump’s tariffs war.

MCX gold prices tumbled ₹394 per 10 grams at 9 am on April 30, with price at ₹95,198/10 gm, as per data on the official website, and MCX Silver prices also crashed by ₹728/kg, to ₹96,134/kg. Further, 24-carat gold costs ₹95,400/10 gm, according to data from the Indian Bullion Association (IBA), while 22-carat gold is priced at ₹87,450/10 gms, and Silver is at ₹97,260/kg.

Why Do People Buy Gold on Akshaya Tritiya?

Many believe that any new start on Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akti and Akha Teej, will be prosperous and successful, and thus they buy gold. On this occasion, jewellers are offering discounts to lure customers despite soaring prices.

Gold is not cheap for the retail customer. On top of the metal price, jewellers will also take making charges for any pieces, and the final bill will include goods and services tax (GST). This is 3 percent (comprising 1.5 percent CGST and SGST each), which means, for gold worth ₹1 lakh, you will shell out ₹3,000 towards GST.

Brands Offer Akshaya Tritiya Discounts

Jewellery brands such as PC Chandra and Tanishq have announced discounts for customers buying gold, silver, and diamond jewellery on Akshaya Tritiya 2025. We take a look:

  • Anjali Jewellers is offering discounts on making charges. Director Annargha Uuttiya Chowdhury told PTI that they expect “very good” sales, as “consumer confidence in gold is at an all-time high.”
  • MP Jewellers has offered a ₹300 per gram discount on gold jewellery and a 10 percent reduction in making charges.
  • PC Chandra Jewellers has declared a ₹200 per gram discount on gold rates, 15 percent off on making charges, and a 10 percent value discount on diamond purchases.
  • Tanishq is offering up to 20 percent discount on making charges for gold.
  • Senco Gold has announced a flat ₹350 discount on gold rates, along with up to 30 percent off on making charges. MD and CEO Suvankar Sen said that despite high prices, the “auspicious buying sentiment is expected to stay firm.”

GoldFinance Offers: JioFinance, MyJio Apps

Further, in a release, Jio Financial Services said it has launched the ‘Jio Gold 24K Days’ from April 29 to May 5, with offers for the purchase of digital gold through its JioFinance and MyJio apps.

  • 1 percent free gold on purchases between ₹1,000– ₹9,999 with code: JIOGOLD1
  • 2 percent free gold on purchases of ₹10,000 and above with code: JIOGOLDAT100
  • The offers are valid for up to 10 transactions per user, with the maximum free gold capped at ₹21,000.
  • The bonus gold will be credited within 72 hours for lump sum purchases only (not SIPs).

Akshaya Tritiya 2025: Muhurat Time to Buy Gold

  • Akshaya Tritiya Gold Purchase Timings — 5.31 pm on April 29 to 5.41 am on April 30 (duration: 12.11 hours).
  • Auspicious Choghadiya timings overlapping Akshaya Tritiya — Evening Muhurat (Labha) — 8.16 pm to 21.37 pm; and Night Muhurat (Shubha, Amrita, Chara) — 22.57 pm to 3 am on April 30.
  • On April 30: Akshaya Tritiya Gold Purchase Timings — 05.41 am to 12.18 pm (duration: 8.30 hours).
  • Auspicious Choghadiya timings overlapping Akshaya Tritiya — Morning Muhurat (Shubha) — 10.39 am to 12.18 pm; and Morning Muhurat (Labha, Amrita) — 5.41 am to 9 am.

Gold Rate Today: MCX Gold Tumbles ₹4300 – Dollar Strength & Trade Optimism Weigh

Gold prices have fallen from record highs due to a stronger US dollar and easing US-China trade tensions. MCX gold ended last week just above ₹95,000 per 10 gm, down over ₹4,300 from its peak.

Optimism surrounding US-China trade negotiations, including tariff reductions, has reduced gold’s safe-haven appeal. A rebounding US Dollar Index, supported by a conciliatory stance from President Trump towards the Federal Reserve, has further pressured gold.

Experts suggest monitoring US-China trade developments closely. A break below $3,300 in Comex gold could signal further declines. MCX gold has support at ₹93,500 per 10 gm and then ₹89,500 per 10 gm, levels where buying interest may emerge ahead of Akshaya Tritiya. Resistance remains strong between ₹99,500 and ₹1,00,000 per 10 gm.

Upcoming US economic data, including Q1 GDP, PCE inflation, and non-farm payrolls, are expected to influence gold prices. A consolidation is likely, with geopolitical uncertainty balanced against trade optimism and a stronger dollar.

As of today, gold rates in major Indian cities are: Delhi (₹94,930/10 gm), Mumbai (₹95,090/10 gm), Bengaluru (₹95,170/10 gm), Chennai (₹95,370/10 gm), and Kolkata (₹94,970/10 gm).