Budget 2026 clarifies that tax-free maturity benefits on Sovereign Gold Bonds will apply only to primary investors who bought directly from the government at issuance. Those purchasing SGBs from the secondary market will now face capital gains tax at redemption, altering post-tax returns and reducing the appeal of near-maturity secondary market bonds.
Gold and silver futures opened higher for a second consecutive session on Wednesday, pushing commodity-based ETFs up by as much as 9% during the period.
Global software and IT stocks suffered a sharp selloff after Anthropic unveiled new AI tools capable of automating legal, sales, marketing and data analysis tasks. Fears that AI may replacerather than supportsoftware firms triggered what analysts call a SaaSpocalypse, wiping out billions in market value across the US, Europe and India.
India's smallcap stocks, after a sharp correction, are seeing a potential turning point following the India-US trade deal. While export-oriented companies may benefit from reduced tariffs, analysts advise a selective, bottom-up approach, focusing on fundamentals rather than broad momentum.
Waaree Energies' shares surged following a US-India trade deal easing tariffs, boosting export prospects. The company also reported strong Q3 results, exceeding Ebitda guidance and expanding its order book. Strategic backward integration and diversification into BESS and green hydrogen further underpin its growth trajectory.
Investors face a choice between systematic investment plans and lumpsum investments. Financial planners suggest the decision hinges on market valuations, momentum, and individual risk tolerance. For hybrid funds, lumpsum is preferred. Pure equity funds require careful consideration of time horizon and valuations. A mix of both methods can optimize long-term returns.
Indian corporates anticipate a surge in overseas borrowing over the next two quarters, fueled by improved investor sentiment following a US-India trade deal. This agreement, which includes tariff reductions, has already led to buying in Indian bonds and a spread compression.
