HDFC Bank, the largest private sector bank in India, will release its Q1 earnings today. Investors are closely watching after high slippages reported by Axis Bank. Despite potential decrease in NIM and NII growth, most brokerages predict stable performance. Asset quality, loan growth, and possibility of special bonus issue are other key areas of interest.
The Indian government's move to reduce GST rates and eliminate compensation cess has had a positive effect on the automotive sector. Mahindra has already lowered prices for its XUV700 models, and the latest revision has made cars of all sizes more affordable, with small cars seeing a 5-13% decrease and larger cars a 3-10% decrease in prices.
Kawasaki has launched the 2026 ZX-10R in India at Rs 19.49 lakh, an increase of Rs 99,000 from the previous model. The updated ZX-10R retains its iconic design and features, including fully adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes, and a TFT instrument console with smartphone connectivity. However, the power output has been reduced to 193.1 bhp, making the 2025 ZX-10R a more sensible option.
Punjab faces severe flood disaster as rivers swell due to intense rainfall in neighboring states. Bollywood actors and Punjabi singers come forward to provide immediate relief and aid to affected families. Shah Rukh Khan's Meer Foundation distributes over 1500 relief kits and collaborates with an Amritsar-based NGO to provide essential supplies to affected homes.
Motilal Oswal rates Bajaj Housing Finance as 'Neutral' with a target price of Rs 120. The company has shown a 29% growth in AUM in the last 5 years and has a diverse product range and strong asset quality. It is the top housing finance company in India, with a focus on high-income earners. Steady returns are expected over the next 3 years.
The US state department is cracking down on foreigners who support the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, warning of consequences such as visa revocation. This includes monitoring social media for anti-American sentiments. Critics argue this violates free speech and targets international students and immigrants.
Infosys, India's second-largest IT services company, announced a record-breaking buyback plan worth Rs 18,000 crore, representing about 2.41% of its paid-up equity capital. This is the first buyback in 3 years and has been well-received by most brokerages, with Jefferies and Nomura maintaining a 'Buy' rating on the stock. The buyback price has been fixed at Rs 1,800 per share.
Indian equity indices opened higher for the eighth consecutive session, with Nifty 50 and Sensex rising by 0.25% and 0.26%, respectively. Bank Nifty, small and midcap stocks also opened higher. Market experts predict a bullish trend, with immediate support at 24,850 and a potential breakout at 25,050. Positive global cues and potential trade talks between the US and India also add to the optimism.
Infosys, a top tech company, has announced its first buyback in three years worth Rs 18,000 crore, which is 2.4% of the total equity shares. This is the fifth buyback in the last eight years. Despite a 3% increase in share price in the last five days, the stock has dropped by 5% in the last six months. Infosys has also reported a 3.3% YoY revenue growth and has raised its revenue guidance.
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years in prison for plotting a coup to stay in power after losing the 2022 election. This is the first time a former president has been convicted for attacking democracy, causing concern from his ally, U.S. President Donald Trump, who may impose sanctions.
The upcoming assembly election in Bihar holds great significance as it can determine the fate of many leaders. Key issues driving the mandate include employment, migration, development, and rural issues, with a focus on fulfilling the state's needs and addressing the treatment of Biharis. Women, a crucial supporter of CM Nitish Kumar, will also have a significant role to play.
Newly released emails from Jeffrey Epstein's Yahoo account reveal his network of influence, partnership with Ghislaine Maxwell, and dealings with high-profile figures. Maxwell's involvement in his financial affairs and efforts to discredit victims are exposed, along with Epstein's obsession with youth and appearance. The emails also raise questions about Donald Trump's ties to Epstein.
Zupee, a real money gaming platform, has laid off 170 employees due to the government's ban on online gaming. The affected employees will receive severance pay and other benefits. Other major gaming firms have also laid off employees. However, overall tech startup layoffs have decreased. Zupee has launched a new video platform, Zupee Studio, for smaller cities.
The recent GST rate cut is expected to revive the commercial vehicle industry, with Ashok Leyland making new investments to increase capacity and benefit from the replacement segment. The company has also announced a partnership with China's CALB for battery production in India, which is expected to boost consumption and create potential opportunities for replacing over 11 lakh MHCV.
Samco Mutual Fund CEO Viraj Gandhi suggests that only a few sectors, such as auto and defence, can offer momentum in the current market. He advocates for the use of algo strategies to maintain discipline in a stagnant market. The fund house utilizes factor investing, specifically the momentum factor, which has shown the highest alpha in both Indian and foreign markets.
Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed at Utah Valley University. His body was flown back to Arizona on Air Force Two, with Vice President JD Vance carrying the casket. Vance paid tribute to Kirk's influence in the conservative movement and his close ties with him. Kirk leaves behind a wife and two children, leaving his supporters grieving and angry.
A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration's attempt to bar children living in the US illegally from enrolling in the Head Start program. The ruling was issued nationwide and praised by the ACLU. The case was filed by Head Start agencies and parent groups, challenging the HHS directive that expanded eligibility criteria for government benefit programs.
Client Associates is India's leading multi-family office wealth manager, serving over 1,000 family offices and managing assets worth $6 billion. Founded by private bankers Rohit Sarin and Himanshu Kohli 22 years ago, the firm offers a range of wealth management services, such as investment advice, estate planning, and global investing.
Rupee hits all-time low of 88.44 against US dollar due to demand from importers and foreign outflows. RBI chooses not to intervene, allowing rupee to fall and providing cushion for exporters. Trade uncertainty between US and India leads to sustained outflows from foreign investors. Rupee has lost 3.5% this financial year, biggest loser among Asian currencies.
Bajaj Auto has regained its second position in monthly electric two-wheeler sales after facing a rare earth magnet supply chain disruption in August. The Pune-based automaker sold 5,935 units in September, securing a 20% market share. Ola Electric, which overtook Bajaj in August, slipped back to fifth position in September. TVS Motor retained its leadership with 6,769 units sold.
Prologis, the world's largest warehousing company, has invested $1 billion in developing 7 million sq ft of warehousing space across four sites in India. The company has also acquired 320 acres of land in the country and has $205 billion worth of assets globally. Prologis is also looking into data centers and solar energy opportunities, following its success in the US markets.
Ashok Leyland's MD & CEO, Shenu Agarwal, predicts that the commercial vehicle (CV) industry will surpass the all-time high sales of FY19 due to the GST rate cut. The company is also making strategic investments in capacity and technology, including a partnership with China's CALB for battery production.
Adani Group has suspended docking of ships from US, EU, and UK at its ports to avoid penalties for transporting Russian crude. This may not impact Russian oil supply to India as Adani handles dry ports, but could impact India-US economic ties. Refiners still buy Russian oil, but may avoid using sanctioned vessels.
Meta's Reels has taken over television as the most popular video consumption platform in India, with 95% daily usage across all demographics. It not only influences cultural trends but also drives commerce. Advertisers are shifting their budgets to Reels due to its personalisation and solo viewing, making it a more effective advertising platform than traditional methods.
Senator Bernie Moreno has introduced the HIRE Act 2025 to discourage US companies from outsourcing jobs by imposing a 25% tax on payments to foreign workers and prohibiting outsourcing deductions. This could affect service exporters like India, but may also violate a WTO agreement. The Act reflects President Trump's protectionist stance but may not pass.
M&M surpasses predicted growth in passenger vehicle segment due to positive buyer sentiment from GST rate cut. CEO credits rare earth magnets and battery electric vehicles for global demand. Production capacity increase will take time. Mid to high teen growth projection maintained for the year, with assurance of quality vehicles for customers.
Nitin Gadkari urges sugar industry to diversify operations and explore alternative uses for sugar, such as ethanol-diesel blending and green hydrogen production, to address the projected increase in sugar production in 2025-26. He also suggests increasing the use of isobutanol for blending with diesel. India's sugar production expected to rise 18%, allowing for exports and ethanol manufacturing.
Sebi to end weekly expiry for brokerage firms, clearing houses, and BSE stocks due to concerns about losses. Participants worried about market impact and volumes, while Sebi considers global recommendations to improve retail participation. BSE CEO highlights benefits of monthly products. Sebi chairman to consult stakeholders before initiating paper.
JSW Group companies, JSW Energy and JSW Infra, are expanding through capacity addition and acquisitions. JSW Energy has added 317 MW of renewable energy, increasing its share to 57%. It aims to reach 30 GW of generation and 40 GWh of energy storage capacity by FY 2030. JSW Infra has acquired a rail siding in Karnataka and plans to develop a rail-linked ecosystem.
Hyundai Motor India plans to launch 26 new models by 2030, including 20 ICE vehicles, 6 BEVs, and its first domestic hybrid. The company aims to increase EV share to 15% and export more, with a capacity expansion to 1 million units. The recent GST cut is expected to boost demand for small SUVs, a potential growth segment for Hyundai.
Infosys and HanesBrands have joined forces to improve the latter's digital business applications and data services. Infosys will use its advanced technology to streamline HanesBrands' operations and support its goals of technology optimization and customer-centricity. Furthermore, Infosys has also implemented its Finacle Digital Banking Solution Suite for PT Bank CTBC Indonesia.
The Central drugs regulator has mandated that medical device manufacturers must update their retail sale price to reflect the reduced GST rates. The order applies to importers and manufacturers of class C and D medical devices, such as bone fixation implants, diagnostic equipment, pacemakers, and stents.
India is aiming to develop a Swadeshi solar value chain by 2028, including wafers, ingots, and polysilicon, to boost domestic production. The government is also creating a list of approved manufacturers for these components. The goal is to achieve 250 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, and the minister is urging states and discoms to take timely action to ensure compliance.
The two-day PSB Manthan conclave organised by the department of financial services will discuss the contentious issue of levying 18% GST on services provided by NBFCs to banks in co-lending arrangements. Currently, no GST is being paid by NBFCs on service charges, leading to an investigation by the DGGI.
Maruti Suzuki predicts a 7% annual growth in passenger vehicle market by FY27, with small cars growing at 10%. Senior executive Partho Banerjee discusses the impact of GST 2.0, income tax relief, and repo rate transmission. Maruti plans to launch an electric vehicle this year, addressing challenges in charging.
India and the US are making progress in talks for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, with both sides satisfied so far. However, key sticking points like India's oil purchases from Russia and the opening up of the farm and dairy sector are causing delays. The deal is crucial for India's exports to the US, which could be slashed by 43% and impact the economy and overall growth.
Urban Company Ltd, an app-based beauty and home services platform, received a 9 times subscription for its Rs 1,900-crore IPO on the second day of bidding. The quota for non-institutional investors garnered 18.22 times subscription, while the category for Retail Individual Investors got subscribed 17.68 times. The company plans to use funds for technology development, lease payments
TERI has created three nano-fertilizer methods that can decrease chemical fertilizer usage by half and boost crop quality and farmers' profits. Miscommunication and the belief that nano-fertilizers are a complete replacement for traditional ones have hindered widespread use. Nonetheless, the government is advocating for their use to decrease reliance on imported fertilizers and decrease subsidies.
Delhi HC grants interim protection to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan against unauthorized use of her identity, citing financial loss and violation of privacy and dignity. Court restrains entities from using her name, image, and likeness through AI, deepfakes, and machine learning.
ICRA predicts a 3% decline in residential real estate sales in India's top seven cities in FY26 due to affordability concerns. The average selling price has risen by 10%, hindering home buyers. New project launches are expected to rise by 4-7% in FY26. The luxury segment has grown by 6%, while the mid-price segment faces challenges. Industry consolidation is also a factor to consider.
Hero MotoCorp has decreased prices of scooters and motorcycles in India after the government's GST reform. CEO Vikram Kasbekar is pleased with the decision, stating it will increase consumption and aid India's goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy. Customers can now save up to Rs 15,743 on certain models, with the Karizma XMR 210 and Xpulse 210 receiving the largest cut.
Private jets are the epitome of luxury, but not accessible to most Indians. They offer personalized services and exclusivity, favored by billionaires and Gen Z for their efficiency. Despite environmental concerns, the demand for private jets is rising, leading to investments in sustainable fuels and electrification by industry giants.
Nithin Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, made headlines for his remarkable resilience after suffering a brain stroke in 2024. Despite the setback, he finished third in the intense Hyrox race in Mumbai, impressing many including entrepreneur Prashant Desai. Desai highlighted Kamath's dedication to fitness and urged others to follow suit, emphasizing the importance of exercise, sleep, and nutrition.
Kotak Mutual Funds' report suggests a "Neutral to Equity" market outlook, with potential for investment during corrections. Despite a strong Indian economy, the current market valuation is higher than historical averages. The GST rate cut and high GDP and Services PMI indicate a positive trend, but the market remains quiet in September. Domestic Institutional Investors remain confident.
A survey by PRCAI and Astrum Advisory shows that 84% of CEOs have a positive outlook on India's future and 89% are confident in its growth potential. Key factors for global leadership include climate readiness, digital innovation, and human capital. However, policy unpredictability and perception gaps could hinder progress.
H&M expands beyond fashion and home with the launch of its beauty segment in India, offering over 200 products at accessible price points. The locally produced collection includes vegan and cruelty-free makeup and fragrances, with a focus on Indian craftsmanship and global innovation. This milestone in H&M's journey reflects a commitment to inclusivity, creating a destination for fashion & beauty.
The TVS Apache RTR 200 4V, a popular urban commuter bike in India, has been around for almost a decade. The latest update in June includes new body graphics and a red front alloy wheel. It offers a range of choices based on performance and budget, with top-notch features like multiple ride modes, dual-channel ABS, and adjustable levers.
A restaurant owner has made serious allegations against Swiggy, claiming that the platform takes a 30% commission on every order and forces restaurants to fund the discounts displayed on the app. The owner shared screenshots of his earnings, revealing that Swiggy charges for discounts and ads, leaving restaurants with minimal profits.
Conservative activist and Trump ally Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at Utah Valley University, prompting an FBI manhunt. While a suspect has not been officially named, a viral video showing a man celebrating Kirk's death has sparked speculation of an organized attack.
Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, known for his lavish lifestyle and long list of wives, has surpassed Elon Musk as the world's richest man with a net worth of $393bn. His current wife, Jolin Zhu, a 33-year-old Chinese native, comes from a wealthy background and holds a bachelor's degree in International Studies. Ellison's tumultuous love life includes five marriages.
India's top businessman Gautami Adani is facing a setback as negotiations to resolve alleged bribery and fraud charges against him in the US have stalled. The Trump administration's refusal to drop the charges due to the India-US trade impasse has added to Adani's troubles. He is also facing a civil lawsuit from the US SEC and cannot travel to the US