32 C 
Mint Explainer | West Asia war is a leg-up for ethanol, but at what cost?
India has already touched 20% blending in petrol, using ethanol made from maize, rice and sugarcane. Should it convert more food to fuel and at what cost?
Form 130 replaces Form 16 from 1 April: Key FAQs taxpayers should know
Form 130 replaces Form 16 from April 2026, simplifying TDS reporting by providing structured details on income, deductions, and tax, helping taxpayers ensure accurate filings and better compliance.
Asian stocks mostly fall, oil climbs again over Iran war de-escalation uncertainties
Oil prices were up again on Thursday after an earlier dip. Brent crude, the international standard, rose 1.3 per cent to $98.51 per barrel. It was below $95 on Wednesday. Benchmark US crude was 1.6 per cent higher at $91.75 a barrel
Indias cement makers stare at bag shortage as West Asia war hits inputs
A polypropylene shortage triggered by West Asia supply shifts is squeezing cement bag makers, raising packaging costs and threatening dispatches just as fuel inflation hits margins.
Saudi oil sales to top Asia buyers China and India to drop on Hormuz disruptions
The prospect of lower crude volumes going from Saudi Arabia to some of its principal buyers highlights the growing economic fallout from the war
Oil prices up 1% as US-Iran ceasefire signals diverge
The uptick follows US President Donald Trumps claim that talks with Iran were underway, which was dismissed by Tehran. Irans military accused Washington of negotiating with itself to mask battlefield setbacks.
Crude oil futures gain as West Asia ceasefire uncertainty continues
June Brent oil futures rise 1.32% in early trade
Stock markets shut today for local holiday; Sensex, Nifty settle higher in previous session
Investors to closely track global cues and oil price movements when markets reopen on Friday
India buys first Iranian LPG cargo in years after US eases sanctions
The shipment, initially bound for China, is expected to arrive at Mangalore and will be shared by Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum.
Gold steady as markets assess West Asia ceasefire talks
Iran says it is reviewing a US proposal to end the Gulf war
Centre asks states to fast-track mineral exploration to boost critical minerals security
In 2025-26, 76 exploration projects have been sanctioned, while 45 blocks funded by NMEDT have been auctioned, including 10 critical mineral blocks, reflecting increased private sector involvement.
India commissions 8,000 TPA green hydrogen capacity, targets 5 MMT by 2030
Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the country aims to achieve 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) annually by 2030
Cairn cuts output by 10% amid West Asia shipping disruptions
Anil Agarwal emphasised the importance of India investing in domestic energy resources to reduce dependence on imports
Bank holiday today: Are banks open or closed on 26 March for Ram Navami? All you need to know
Bank holiday today: Banks across various Indian cities will be closed on 26 March for Shree Ram Navami. Here's a list of all cities where banks will be closed on 26 March.
Jio Platforms DRHP filing soon, Indias largest IPO expected in first half of 2026
. The offering will be an offer for sale, with several foreign investors looking to reduce stakes
Why gated societies are the new growth engine for brands in India
As digital advertising grows costlier and less efficient, brands are turning to gated communities to reach affluent consumers, improve targeting, and drive repeat purchases through hyperlocal engagement.
Middle-class individuals must strategically plan finances to avoid crises from medical emergencies or job losses. Building an emergency fund is essential, especially amid rising inflation and a volatile job market, according to this CA.
SEBI, Google roll out verified badge for investment apps to curb fraud
Over 600 broker apps on Play Store tagged; move aimed at helping investors distinguish genuine platforms from fakes
TVS Holdings declares interim dividend
The record date for the purpose of interim dividend will be April 2, 2026
Bernstein, UBS trim Nifty targets as West Asia conflict clouds outlook
While most firms believe the domestic structural story remains intact, near-term market direction is seen hinging on the duration of geopolitical tensions
SEBI fills WTM vacancy with KV Ramana Murty
Former defence accounts official appointed to board; portfolio reshuffle likely
SEBI proposes IT Resilience Index to enhance market infrastructure oversight
The proposed index would offer a structured, system-driven mechanism to assess the health and robustness of IT systems across stock exchanges, clearing corporations and depositories
6 practical strategies to keep credit card spending in check and stay debt-free
Smart credit card usage requires discipline through spending limits, regular tracking, full repayments, low utilisation, fewer cards, and automated payments to maintain financial stability and a healthy credit profile.
Slow, but steady start for SIFs; amass 9,712 crore AUM in six months
The hybrid long-short fund has been the most popular with six schemes managing asset of 7,389 crore
SEBI conflict code overhaul seen pragmatic, but transparency, enforcement gaps remain
Experts back tighter norms; raise concerns on internal disclosures, recusal-heavy design and indirect holdings
ASMS inks pact with two US firms to develop tech-driven aquaculture and fisheries ecosystems India
The initiative falls under ASMSs Project AVIO Agritech strategy, which targets expansion into fisheries, water resource management, and climate-linked rural enterprises
Arkade Developers launches 230 crore luxury project in Goregaon West, stock closes up 1.93%
The development is Arkades eighth residential project in the Goregaon-Malad corridor, a market the Mumbai-based developer has been systematically expanding into over recent years
Paisalo Digital adds Indian Overseas Bank to Its BC network
The new partnership adds a 3rd public-sector bank to Paisalos network; the NBFC delivers last-mile banking services including account opening, deposits and withdrawals, remittances, etc.
Ceigall India signs 337 MW solar PPAs in Maharashtra, stock closes up 3.85%
The agreements were signed through two wholly owned subsidiaries Ceigall Green Energy MH1 Limited and Ceigall Green Energy MH2 Limited on March 24, 2026
DA hike: Could Union Cabinet announce increase today? Here's how much salary jump to expect
High expectations surround a Cabinet announcement on Dearness Allowance hike this month. It is anticipated to provide financial relief amid rising costs, benefiting over 1.2 crore employees and pensioners.
No-buy days and cart pauses: How Gen Z is reshaping money habits
From no-buy periods to 24-hour cart pauses, social media is reshaping how young Indians save and spendsimplifying money habits, but also raising risks of oversimplified advice.
Gold surges 4% as ceasefire hopes drive Indias second straight ally
The BSE Sensex gained 1,205 points or 1.63% to close at 75,273.45, while the Nifty 50 advanced 394 points or 1.72% to settle at 23,306.45
Puravankara plans 55,000-crore project pipeline across south India, Mumbai
A significant number of the 30 projects are already in the approvals stage
Omaxe names cricket stand after Harmanpreet Kaur at Dwarka Stadium
The stand, located in the North Pavilion Lower Bowl of the 30,000-seater venue, will have over 1,500 seats and serve as Indias first dedicated Pink Stand a space designed for women and families
Urban Companys Udaan initiative lifts women professionals earnings by 14% through 2-wheeler access
The companys Udaan initiative provides an end-to-end mobility ecosystem covering riding training, licensing support, financing access, and two-wheeler ownership
LG Electronics India inks 25-year solar deals to power two manufacturing plants
The company signed a 9.80 MWp solar PPA with HREPL for its Pune plant and an 11 MWp agreement with Sunsure Energy for Greater Noida
The world is panicked over oil. Canada sees opportunity.
Asia could become a prime buyer of Canadian energy.
Bain Capital to launch open offer for stake in Manappuram Finance on April 6
The US private equity firm is offering 236 per Manappuram Finance share, plus an additional 12.29 apiece as per regulatory requirement
Bernstein warns rupee could breach 98/USD, cuts Nifty target on Iran conflict risks
Bernsteins base case is for hostilities in the Middle East to conclude within a month, while its bear case bakes in the war extending for a year
Alert for tenants: March is your last window to deduct TDS on rent
The tax department has started looking closely into TDS defaulters on rent. Last year, the department sent notices to taxpayers who claimed HRA on the rent they paid but did not deduct TDS
Gold ETFs outpace Nifty 50 TRI returns across horizons
On a one-year CAGR basis, most Gold ETFs delivered returns in excess of 50%, reflecting the sharp rally in gold prices and strong investor demand for safe-haven assets
NHAI faces 29k-cr hit as SC upholds extra compensation for highway landowners
A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan reaffirmed that landowners whose land was acquired for highway projects between 1997 and 2015 are entitled to extra compensation, known as solatium, and interest, even for past acquisitions.
Indias youngest infrastructure financier looks beyond debt
The state-owned financier also plans to invest in underserved sectors such as urban infrastructure, waste management, and smaller healthcare projects, areas where capital is harder to access.
Starting retirement planning at 40? Here are 5 steps to build healthy corpus
Retirement planning at 40 can still help build a strong corpus. Disciplined investing, diversification, insurance and clear financial goals are key. Read here about these measures that ensure stability, protect against inflation, and support longterm financial independence.
Nifty crosses 23,400 at midday as geopolitical fears ease further
Nearly 183 stocks were locked in upper circuits, compared to 136 in lower circuits a market breadth picture that points to widespread buying across segments and not just index-level moves
Market Holidays in Mar-Apr 2026: What investors should know
Stock markets to remain closed on April 3 and April 14
Explore top fixed-income investments, including PPF, SSY, SCSS, EPF, and Post Office schemes, offering guaranteed returns, tax benefits, and capital protection for safe, long-term financial growth in volatile markets.
Railway infrastructure provider Laxyo files 150 cr IPO papers
The IPO is entirely a fresh issue of equity shares with no Offer For Sale component, according to the DRHP filed on Monday
Muthoot Exim opens 100th gold point centre in Mumbai, eyes expansion
With India heavily dependent on gold imports, the company aims to strengthen the circular gold economy and reduce import reliance through organised recycling.
How Indias youth is evolving into more informed and responsible borrowers
Economic growth in India is propelled by self-reliance and the empowerment of youth through diverse career opportunities. Financial inclusion initiatives have significantly improved access to banking, enabling young Indians to develop informed financial habits and manage their credit effectively.
How Indian entertainment firms are using AI to close tech gap with global rivals
Indian media and entertainment firms are enhancing their technology capabilities and appointing AI leaders, reflecting a broader shift in an industry that has historically prioritised content over product and technology infrastructure.
Do rules of thumb lead to burnt fingers?
While financial rules of thumb offer a convenient starting point for the undisciplined, they often collapse under the weight of unique life circumstances and market volatility.
BPCL, HPCL, IOC, IndiGo & paint stocks gain as crude prices slide below $100 per barrel
Crude prices decline nearly 7% in morning trade
United Spirits trades flat after 16,660 crore RCB stake sale; Sun TV and RPSG Ventures rally
The transaction marks a significant monetisation move by the company and is among the largest deals in the Indian sports franchise space
NRO vs NRE accounts explained: What every NRI should know about features and benefits
An Indian citizen must designate all his existing bank accounts as NRO accounts as soon as he becomes a non-resident under FEMA. He can also open an NRO account at any time after becoming an NRI.
Crude oil futures fall on reports of US efforts to end war with Iran
April crude oil futures trade at 8,360 on MCX during initial hour of trading on Wednesday against previous close of 8,736, down by 4.30%
Sensex, Nifty rise as crude oil slumps, ceasefire hopes lift markets
Crude oil prices fell sharply on Wednesday morning following reports of US-led diplomatic efforts to end the war with Iran
5 reasons why gold & silver may lose their glitter this year
If oil prices remain elevated long enough to seep into inflation expectations, the Federal is likely to keep the interest rates higher for longer to curb inflation while seeking to ensure economic growth
ICICI Prudential Life launches Smallcap 250 Index Fund under ULIPs
Passive fund offers exposure to 250 emerging companies for long-term wealth creation
Sensex, Nifty, Share Prices LIVE: Indian markets are set for a strong opening, with Gift Nifty indicating a gap-up start amid improved global sentiment. Optimism around potential US-Iran negotiations has eased crude prices and boosted equities, though volatility and continued FII outflows may cap gains.
Gift Nifty signals strong start as Trumps Iran talks boost global sentiment
Analysts remain cautious, awaiting concrete signals from Iran, as uncertainty around negotiations and geopolitical tensions keeps markets volatile and caps confidence despite improving global cues
Govt appoints Kompella Venkata Ramana Murty as SEBI whole-time member for three years
Murty previously served as additional controller general of defence accounts in the Ministry of Defence, bringing administrative and financial expertise to the capital markets regulator.
New I-T rules: There are a couple of crucial changes taxpayers will see from next month. The changes include the requirement for a CA's certificate for foreign tax credit when the amount exceeds 1 lakh in a year.
India awaits delivery of 2.30 lakh tonnes of LPG
Pine Gas (about 45,000 tonnes LPG) is bound for New Mangalore with ETA on March 27thmorning, while Jag Vasant (about 47,612.59 tonnes LPG) is bound for Kandla with ETA on March 26thmorning
Retiring soon? 5 practical steps to help ensure long-term financial security
Plan your retirement wisely with key financial moves that protect your savings, manage expenses, and secure a comfortable, stress-free future while enjoying peace of mind. Proper guidance must be taken from certified financial advisors to navigate retirement planning.
Tata AIA launches three ULIP funds targeting AI, innovation themes
The 2 domestic funds will invest in Indian large and mid-cap companies in innovation-driven sectors, with an equity allocation of 60% to 100% and the remainder in debt and money market instruments
AI voice cloning scams: How they trick victims and 6 ways to protect your money and privacy
AI voice cloning scams use realistic voices to trick victims into sharing sensitive information, causing financial loss, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance, secure practices, and careful digital behaviour.
Iran pause sparks Niftys biggest single-day rebound in weeks
The catalyst was US Trumps announcement of a five-day pause on strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure, which triggered a swift unwinding of geopolitical risk premiums across global markets
Indri launches Indias first Single Malt matured in Pineau Des Charentes cask
The release is limited to 252 individually numbered bottles, bottled at 50 per cent ABV, and is priced at 12,500 per bottle; It is currently available only in Bengaluru
Gold trims losses as investors weigh conflicting signals on West Asia talks
Prices rebound marginally after steep fall as markets parse Iran-US rhetoric and conflict risks
Crude futures jump 204 to 8,549/barrel amid geopolitical uncertainty in West Asia
MCX futures rise over 2 per cent as global benchmarks recover on geopolitical tensions
ACME Solar commissions 155 MW / 470 MWh of battery storage in Rajasthan
The newly commissioned projects, developed through the companys subsidiaries, are connected to the existing Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) and will operate on a merchant basis
MSE appoints market makers for equity segment
Liquidity enhancement measures to kick in from April 1
Nippon India Gold ETF breaks into Global Top 10, ranks 6th by flows
The fund recorded inflows of $1,085.2 million translating into gold demand of 6.6 tonnes during the period under review.
First GIFT City IPO extends bidding date as Iran war delays customer verification
The $12 million IPO of global executive education platform, operating in over 25 countries, was earlier scheduled to close on Tuesday
OZi raises Series A round led by RTP Global
OZi had earlier raised a seed round of $3.3 million in October 2025 led by Blume Ventures, with participation from Huddle Ventures, Zeropearl VC, and Untitled Ventures
MSE to appoint market makers in equity from April 1
Move aimed at strengthening market depth, support efficient price discovery and enhance the overall trading experience
Temasek-backed Manipal Health files for 8,000 crore IPO; targets debt reduction
The company has also indicated it may undertake a pre-IPO placement of up to 1,600 crore, which, if completed, would proportionally reduce the fresh issue size
Coal Indias Central Mine IPO booked 72% so far on final day
Strong institutional interest drives 2.21x QIB subscription; retail and non-institutional participation lag
Highness Microelectronics Rs 21.67-crore IPO opens. Check price band, GMP, other key details
Highness Microelectronics' Rs 21.67 crore IPO opened on Tuesday, aiming to list on the BSE SME platform. With a grey market premium of Rs 20, the estimated listing price suggests a potential 16.67% gain. The company plans to use the proceeds for capital expenditure, working capital, and debt repayment.
Sugar, grain lobbies next push for ethanol cook stoves as Iran war continues to squeeze LPG supplies
Ethanol lobby groups in India are advocating for ethanol-based cooktops amid domestic cooking gas supply disruptions due to the West Asia war. They propose a feasibility study on ethanol as a cooking fuel. This comes at a time that India faces an oversupply of ethanol.
Mutual Funds cut exposure to 9 stocks in February; 5 already down 2030%
Mutual funds are reportedly trimming their stock holdings, with over 10 schemes reducing exposure to nine specific stocks in February 2026 compared to January. This cautious shift comes as most of these stocks have experienced negative returns year-to-date, with five plunging 20-30% in under three months.
Gold price today March 24: Gold rates rise in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad & Bengaluru
22K & 24K gold price today, March 24, 2026 across Indian cities
Your behaviour, not markets, drives returns
Financial planners can help by focusing on discovery, understanding goals, cash flows, and behavioural tendencies before making recommendations
Dwindling RBI support for Indian rupee, bonds spooks markets
The rupee, which hit a record low of nearly 94 per dollar on Monday, recovered slightly on Tuesday but bankers worry about further losses from a foreign exodus and demand in the non-deliverable forward market
DSP Mutual Fund drops conservative stance on stocks after 2 years, citing 9 reasons
DSP Mutual Fund has shifted to an optimistic 'buy' stance on equities after two years of caution, citing nine signals indicating a compelling opportunity. Valuations have eased, particularly in large caps, with key sectors trading below historical averages. The fund advises a gradual increase in equity exposure, especially through SIPs for SMIDs.
Despite near-term pain from the West Asia war and oil shock, high-quality Indian stocks are now offering genuine value after six years of a bull market. CIO Pankaj Murarka believes the market has corrected to its long-term average valuation, presenting a significant opportunity for investors looking beyond the next few quarters.
Global Markets | European shares rise as investors assess mixed signals on Middle East war
European shares edged higher from multi-month lows on Tuesday as investors digested conflicting signals from the ongoing war in the Middle East, while concerns over the fallout from an energy shock kept gains in check.
