Wall Street is celebrating a market surge fueled by receding trade war fears, with the S&P 500 hitting a record high. Investor optimism is high despite economic uncertainties and policy concerns. Cooling inflation and improved consumer sentiment are driving the rally across stocks, bonds, and commodities.
President Trump expressed his desire for Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell to resign, criticizing Powell's performance and labeling him "stupid." Trump stated he would prefer interest rates at 1%, accusing Powell of maintaining higher rates due to "Trump Derangement Syndrome." He intends to nominate a successor who will lower rates, potentially challenging the Fed's traditional independence.
Donald Trump asserted that Iran's nuclear sites were "obliterated" and warned of worsening conditions if Iran doesn't align with global norms. He claimed to have prevented an Israeli attack on Tehran and halted sanction relief due to perceived animosity from Iran.
Ashika Investment Manager's CIO, Paras Bothra, anticipates discretionary consumption and travel sectors to thrive in the second half of 2025, fueled by lower interest rates and festive demand. While geopolitical tensions and primary market activity may limit near-term gains, the long-term outlook for India remains positive.
Canada's government has ordered Hikvision, a Chinese video surveillance equipment manufacturer, to halt all operations and shut down its Canadian business due to national security concerns. Minister Melanie Joly stated that Hikvision Canada Inc.'s continued presence would be detrimental to Canada's security. The government has also banned the purchase and use of Hikvision products within government departments and agencies.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India has updated regulations concerning related party transactions. Company management must now secure certification from key executives for audit committees. Shareholders will receive valuation reports for significant transactions. Requirements for royalty payment disclosures are relaxed. These revised rules, developed with industry input, will be effective from September 1, 2025.
IndusInd Bank's board has shortlisted Rajiv Anand, Rahul Shukla, and Anup Saha for the CEO role, aiming to meet the RBI's June 30 deadline. The bank has been operating without a full-time CEO since Sumant Kathpalia's resignation. Rajiv Anand is considered the frontrunner, bringing extensive experience from Axis Bank.
The Reserve Bank of India reveals valuation gains in reserves. These gains reached $26.9 billion during fiscal year 2024-25. This is a significant jump from $4.3 billion in the previous year. However, excluding these effects, foreign exchange reserves saw a decrease of $5 billion. Nominal terms show an increase of $21.9 billion.
The Indian IPO market experienced a robust week, with five IPOs collectively receiving bids exceeding 1.85 lakh crore. HDB Financial's IPO stood out, attracting significant institutional interest and becoming the largest NBFC public issue since Zomato. Improved market sentiment fuels this IPO surge, with numerous companies preparing to enter the primary market, anticipating favorable subscriptions and listing gains.
