MCXs surge past Rs 10,000 milestone, has turned Uday Kotaks 2014 crisis-time investment into a massive 1,618% gain, with Kotak Mahindra Banks 15% stake now valued at 7,887 crore. The rally follows strong earnings, rising 29% YoY, and has pushed the stock well above key moving averages despite elevated volatility.
US markets may seem calm but economist Andrew Freris sees underlying weakness. Consumer confidence has dropped significantly. Inflation remains high. Freris believes any Fed rate cut would signal economic trouble, not progress. He strongly advises against investing in US stocks. Instead, he suggests focusing on Asia and the European Union for better returns.
Ashok Leyland shares surged to a 52-week high following its subsidiary Hinduja Leyland Finance's approval to merge with NDL Ventures. This strategic absorption, effective April 2026 pending approvals, involves a 25:10 share exchange ratio. The move is part of a broader realignment of Ashok Leyland's key subsidiaries.
Trent, a top Tata Group retailer, faces a tough year. Its stock is down 40% in 2025. Growth is slowing, and expansion worries investors. Analysts are cautious. However, long-term prospects remain, with strong brands and investments in technology. The company is navigating a challenging phase.
Patel Engineering's stock soared after securing two significant Letters of Intent worth Rs 798.19 crore for coal excavation and transportation projects in Chhattisgarh. Awarded by South Eastern Coalfields Limited, these nine-year contracts involve extensive overburden removal, coal handling, and logistics. This win further solidifies the company's position in crucial infrastructure development for public sector undertakings.
Reliance Infrastructure surged 5% to hit the upper circuit for the second consecutive session, extending its rebound after a sharp six-day decline. Despite the recovery, the stock remains under pressuredown 27% in a month and nearly 60% from its 52-week highwhile technical indicators continue to signal broader weakness.
Gold and silver prices opened lower due to profit booking and market volatility, even as expectations of December Fed rate cuts and a weaker dollar provided support. Gold February futures on MCX fell 0.41% to 1,27,248 per 10 grams, while silver March futures dropped 0.36% to 1,64,349 per kg.
This is the time of year when I typically offer financial planning advice to those who have the flexibility to make charitable gifts or plan ahead for taxes. But this year, more than ever, I am acutely aware of the millions of people to whom that advice doesnt apply.
The Indian rupee experienced a slight dip, trading at 89.24 against the US dollar on Thursday due to increased importer demand. However, foreign capital inflows into the stock market and a fall in crude oil prices provided some support. Domestic equity markets saw a positive start, with both Sensex and Nifty registering gains in early trade.
Sterling and Wilson Renewable Energy shares saw a significant jump on Thursday. The company announced it secured a major international project in South Africa. This new contract is for a 240 MW AC Solar PV project valued at approximately $147 million. This win strengthens the company's position in the growing South African solar market.
