Arbitrage funds, popular with affluent investors, are set to see returns shrink by 25-35 basis points due to a proposed increase in securities transaction tax (STT) on equity derivative trades. The government's budget proposal raises STT on futures sales, impacting the price anomalies these funds exploit. Despite this, their tax efficiency is expected to maintain popularity.
Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) experienced a significant drop of 8-10% as investors shied away from the secondary market following the government's withdrawal of tax benefits on capital gains at maturity. This move, coupled with falling gold prices, has prompted wealth managers to advise investors to re-evaluate their investment strategies.
Indian stocks are set to outperform Asian markets. A new trade deal with the US has removed a major concern for investors. This agreement is expected to bring back foreign capital. The Indian rupee may also see support. Early market reactions show optimism for the upcoming trading sessions. Investors are looking forward to potential growth in Indian equities.
Indian markets showed resilience, recovering some Budget-day losses. Several key companies are under the spotlight today. Bajaj Finance and Adani Enterprises will announce their third-quarter results. RIL faces a legal challenge from the government. Eicher Motors reported strong January sales. Lupin launched a generic cancer drug in the US. Investors watch these developments closely.
The bill would authorize autonomous vehicle pilot programs in a handful of Illinois counties, including Cook County, before opening the door to statewide legalization of self-driving cars in three years.
Metropolitan Capital Bank & Trust was closed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, citing unsafe and unsound conditions and an impaired capital position."
The government will maintain its focus on infrastructure development through increased capital expenditure, despite fiscal constraints and global economic uncertainty. Expenditure Secretary V. Vualnam dismissed concerns from states regarding the discontinuation of revenue deficit grants, emphasizing the need for states to manage their own expenditure. The Centre has enhanced funding for state-level capital investment schemes to encourage public investment-led growth.
