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The Economic Times

Business / The Economic Times

Stock markets over 1% bounceback reflects clarity on tax

Indian stock markets bounced back on Monday. The Nifty and Sensex recovered from budget day losses. This rebound followed a global sell-off in commodities and precious metals. Short covering and easing concerns over a securities transaction tax hike supported the market. Auto sales and falling crude oil prices also boosted sentiment. Foreign investors sold shares, while domestic investors bought them.

3 Feb 2026 6:41 am
India gains edge over regional export competitors after tariffs drop to 18%, beats China, Bangladesh

India, US trade deal: India now enjoys a significant trade advantage with the United States. Washington has reduced tariffs on Indian products to 18 percent. This move places India ahead of regional export rivals like Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Vietnam. The deal also sees India's tariffs on US goods reduced. This development is a major boost for Indian exports and strengthens bilateral trade ties.

3 Feb 2026 6:35 am
US trade deal win may spark foreign buying rush in Indian stocks

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.

3 Feb 2026 6:34 am
Stocks in news: RIL, Adani Enterprises, Bajaj Housing, PB Fintech

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.

3 Feb 2026 6:25 am
Gift Nifty surges over 700 pts; here's the trading setup for the day

Indian stock markets saw a significant recovery on Monday. The Nifty gained approximately 400 points from its lowest point, closing at 25,088. Analysts anticipate continued positive market momentum in the short term. Global market trends and company earnings will influence individual stock movements. Foreign investors were net sellers, while domestic institutional investors also sold shares.

3 Feb 2026 6:20 am
Asian stocks climb with metals as volatility eases

Asian stocks climbed Tuesday, recovering from recent volatility in gold and silver. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index rose over 1% as precious metals rebounded and Nasdaq 100 futures gained on a strong sales outlook from Palantir. Positive US factory activity data boosted sentiment, signaling a potential manufacturing recovery.

3 Feb 2026 6:11 am
S&P 500 flirts with record high; chipmakers and small caps jump

The S&P 500 closed higher, driven by gains in AI-related chipmakers and tech giants like Alphabet and Amazon. Smaller companies also saw significant gains, with the Russell 2000 outperforming major indices. Positive economic fundamentals and strong earnings, particularly in technology, fueled investor confidence despite concerns over tech valuations.

3 Feb 2026 6:04 am
Budget 2026: DEA Secy asks companies to invest in critical sectors

The government, Anuradha Thakur said, intends to stay on the fiscal consolidation path and reduce its debt-to-GDP ratio. This will weigh down the Centre's borrowing costs and free up resources for priority sector spending, Thakur said at a post-budget event, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry.

3 Feb 2026 1:32 am
PF exemptions to now align in full with EPFO rules

The Union Budget proposes changes to provident fund trust rules. These changes aim to simplify business operations and reduce legal disputes. Employer contributions to provident funds will no longer need to match employee contributions. Tax on employer contributions exceeding 12% of wages is also being removed.

3 Feb 2026 1:20 am
Carbon capture push in Budget 2026 builds up steel & cement companies' confidence

India's government is investing 20,000 crore over five years in carbon capture technology. This funding will aid hard-to-abate industries like steel and cement. These sectors face high emissions and significant costs for low-carbon solutions. The move signals strong policy support for industrial decarbonisation. It aims to help these industries meet climate goals while expanding production capacity.

3 Feb 2026 1:17 am
Budget 2026: Tax reforms mark shift to trust-based regime, says CBDT chief

Explaining the hike in securities transaction tax (STT) on derivatives, CBDT chairman Ravi Agrawal said that the reforms regarding the minimum alternative tax (MAT) will push more companies to the new tax regime, adding that the government will honour all accumulated MAT credit up to March 31 for companies shifting to the new 22% tax regime.

3 Feb 2026 1:16 am
Priority is growth; demand seen keeping up pace, says Nirmala Sitharaman after Budget 2026

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is confident consumption will remain strong. She defended the increased tax on derivative trading, aiming to deter speculation. The government plans to boost disinvestment and asset monetisation to fund its fiscal goals. Amendments to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code are also planned for the latter half of the budget session.

3 Feb 2026 1:13 am
Budget 2026: SEZ domestic sale a one-time Step, says Revenue Secretary

The government has introduced a special one-time measure for Special Economic Zone units. This allows eligible manufacturing units to sell products in the domestic market at concessional duty rates. Revenue Secretary Arvind Shrivastava stated this is a limited-time window. The aim is to help these export-oriented businesses manage global trade volatilities.

3 Feb 2026 1:10 am
Tight fiscal room won't affect infra creation capex: Expenditure secy

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.

3 Feb 2026 1:10 am
India-US trade deal: US cuts tariffs to 18%, India gains edge over regional peers

The US has slapped a 50% tariff on Brazil, 30% on South Africa and 25% on Mexico. Developed economies such as Canada face a 35% tariff and Switzerland 39%.

3 Feb 2026 1:08 am
MPC Meet: A rate cuts unlikely with growth strong, liquidity call in focus: Poll

Reserve Bank of India is expected to keep interest rates unchanged. Economists foresee a neutral to dovish stance from Governor Sanjay Malhotra. Liquidity support measures and a new open market operation calendar are anticipated. The Monetary Policy Committee will assess budget impacts on inflation, growth, and liquidity. Inflation is projected to stay near the 4% target, while growth remains strong.

3 Feb 2026 1:07 am
Manufacturing push key to strong rupee in long run: CEA Anantha Nageswaran

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran states strong manufacturing is vital for the rupee's long-term strength. The recent budget includes measures to boost factory output. He emphasizes that manufacturing prowess influences currency strength more than services. Countries with robust manufacturing bases have seen their currencies retain strength over decades.

3 Feb 2026 1:06 am
Budget 2026: Infra boost may create $175 billion investment opportunity over 7 years

India's budget prioritizes infrastructure, signaling stability for long-term investors. Public capital expenditure is rising, creating a predictable environment. This focus is attracting global capital to sectors beyond roads and renewables. Opportunities are expanding into digital infrastructure, energy transition, and urban development. India's growth model, driven by domestic demand and sustained investment, offers a stable outlook for infrastructure projects.

3 Feb 2026 1:05 am
Seafood, textile exporters cheer US tariff cut on India

While the US decision offers immediate relief to exporters, especially in seafoods and textile who were among the most affected by the tariffs, sectors like automobile components are waiting for clarity on how the new rate would be applied.

3 Feb 2026 1:03 am
DIPAM secretary: Rs 80,000 crore target high but achievable

The government aims to raise 80,000 crore through disinvestment and asset monetisation in FY27. DIPAM secretary Arunish Chawla expressed confidence in meeting this ambitious target. Plans are underway to unlock value from land assets of state-run firms by establishing dedicated real estate investment trusts. Industry feedback is also being sought for stake dilution in public sector companies.

3 Feb 2026 1:01 am
SEZ domestic sales relief to be time-bound: Revenue Secy

New Delhi: Special Economic Zone units will get a temporary window to sell goods domestically. This one-time measure aims to help them navigate global trade uncertainties. The government is also simplifying customs procedures for eligible businesses. These changes are part of budget proposals to empower taxpayers and enhance transparency.

3 Feb 2026 12:58 am
Budget 2026: Vision for future-ready India with clarity and continuity

India's latest budget prioritizes technology and skills for future growth. Initiatives like Semiconductor Mission 2.0 and rare earth corridor development aim to boost domestic capabilities. The budget also focuses on education and employment, preparing India's workforce for emerging opportunities. Fiscal responsibility remains key, with a target deficit of 4.3% of GDP for FY 2026-27.

3 Feb 2026 12:50 am
MoSPI to map economic impact of cooperatives

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation will launch a six-month rapid survey in April to assess the economic contribution of functional cooperatives across India. This initiative aims to estimate their gross value added, gross value of output, and employment generation for financial years 2020-21 and 2023-24, addressing existing data gaps.

3 Feb 2026 12:27 am
Factory activity firms up in January amid weak outlook

India's manufacturing activity saw a slight rebound in January, driven by increased new orders and output, though business confidence dipped to a three-and-a-half-year low. While consumer goods led the growth, capital goods lagged, and future output expectations weakened despite buoyant domestic demand and moderate international orders.

3 Feb 2026 12:14 am
India-US trade deal: 800-point GIFT Nifty surge sets tone for strong Tuesday opening; 20 stocks in focus

India and the US have announced a trade deal, reducing reciprocal tariffs to 18% and easing concerns that have impacted Indian markets. This development is expected to trigger a strong opening on Dalal Street, with export-oriented sectors poised to benefit from improved competitiveness and reduced costs.

3 Feb 2026 12:09 am
US-India trade deal: Washington dropping 25% separate tariff on Indian imports after Russian oil cut promise, White House says

US-India trade deal news: The Trump administration is removing a 25% tariff on Indian imports previously imposed due to New Delhi's purchases of Russian oil. This action follows India's agreement to cease buying Russian oil, with a country-specific tariff also being reduced to 18%.

2 Feb 2026 11:31 pm
India-US trade deal: PM Modi 'delighted' after Trump cuts tariffs on 'Made in India products' to 18%

India-US trade deal news: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to US President Trump following a phone call where tariffs on Indian goods were reduced to 18%. Modi highlighted the benefits of cooperation between the two large economies and democracies, emphasizing Trump's leadership for global peace and prosperity. India looks forward to strengthening its partnership.

2 Feb 2026 11:13 pm
GIFT Nifty soars nearly 600 points on announcement of India-US trade deal

The surge in GIFT Nifty came following the news that India and the US agreed to a trade deal. Donald Trump, on his Truth Social platform, said that he spoke with Prime Minister Modi about trade and ending the war in Ukraine and that the new deal reduces US tariffs to 18%.

2 Feb 2026 10:51 pm
US to cut tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18%, claims Trump

The United States will lower its import tariff on Indian goods to 18 percent. This follows a phone call between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India is expected to reciprocate by removing its own tariffs and trade barriers on US products. This development comes after a period of trade disputes between the two nations.

2 Feb 2026 10:45 pm
Tata Chemicals Q3 Results: Consolidated net loss widens to Rs 93 crore

Tata Chemicals reported a wider consolidated net loss of Rs 93 crore for the December quarter, impacted by oversupplied soda ash markets and low export prices. Despite these headwinds, the company's standalone performance showed resilience, and it announced the acquisition of Novabay Pte. Limited to bolster its specialty chemicals business.

2 Feb 2026 10:10 pm
Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Q3 loss widens to Rs 375 crore

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank reported a significant widening of its net loss to Rs 375 crore in the third quarter, a substantial increase from Rs 168 crore in the previous year. The bank also experienced an operational loss of Rs 44 crore, contrasting with a profit in the prior year.

2 Feb 2026 10:01 pm
Chalet Hotels Q3 Results: Net profit up 28% at Rs 124 crore

Chalet Hotels reported a robust third quarter with a 28.5% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rs 124 crore and a 27.1% rise in revenue to Rs 581.6 crore. The company's EBITDA grew by 29% to Rs 272.6 crore, driven by strong traction in key operating metrics and double-digit RevPAR expansion.

2 Feb 2026 9:35 pm
Fed chair nominee Warsh may want smaller Fed holdings, but that's not easy to do

Kevin Warsh, tapped to become the next Federal Reserve chair, may want to significantly contract the central bank's multi-trillion-dollar balance sheet, but experts agree that financial realities strongly indicate accomplishing this goal will be difficult and slow, if it can be done at all.

2 Feb 2026 9:22 pm
Ahead of Market: 10 things that will decide stock market action on Tuesday

Markets rebounded after volatility triggered by the STT hike and higher borrowing plans, aided by policy continuity and falling crude prices. Analysts warn sentiment remains cautious below the 200-day average, advising selling rallies despite medium-term confidence amid global tensions ongoing.

2 Feb 2026 9:18 pm
Disney shares slump as fewer international visitors come to its US theme parks

Warner Bros Discovery is likely to hold a shareholder vote on the $82.7 billion deal to sell its streaming and studio assets to Netflix in March, CNBC reported on Monday.

2 Feb 2026 9:13 pm
From small towns to India Inc: Sitharaman's bold bet on Bharat in Budget 2026

Budget 2026: India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is launching a plan to boost small businesses in Tier II and Tier III towns. This initiative aims to turn these enterprises into formally managed companies. The strategy focuses on equity, liquidity, and professional support. The goal is to integrate these businesses into India's larger corporate growth story and global supply chains.

2 Feb 2026 8:58 pm
Warner Bros' shareholders likely to hold vote on Netflix deal in March: Report

Warner Bros Discovery is likely to hold a shareholder vote on the $82.7 billion deal to sell its streaming and studio assets to Netflix in March, CNBC reported on Monday.

2 Feb 2026 8:43 pm
US manufacturing rebounds in January amid strong order growth

U.S. factory activity grew for the first time in a year in January, with new orders rebounding sharply, but manufacturing is still not out of the woods as import tariffs raised raw material prices and strained supply chains.

2 Feb 2026 8:39 pm
FinMin carefully watching rupee movement, says Economic Affairs Secretary

India's government is closely watching the rupee's decline against the US dollar. Officials may take action if the situation becomes concerning. The rupee has weakened significantly, impacting export competitiveness. Budget announcements aim to boost foreign currency inflows. Changes to Alternative Investment Funds and investment rules for overseas investors are also highlighted.

2 Feb 2026 8:37 pm
Oracle shares rise as $50 billion raise eases data-center funding fears

Oracle shares gained 2.5% on Monday after Wall Street analysts said the software company's $50 billion fundraising plan allays worries over its ability to finance a massive data-center expansion with OpenAI.

2 Feb 2026 8:20 pm
US stocks open lower as commodity rout rattles markets

Wall Street's main indexes opened lower on Monday, as a violent selloff in precious metals unsettled investors at the start of a week packed with corporate earnings and major economic data.

2 Feb 2026 8:06 pm
RBI says 98.42 pc of withdrawn Rs 2,000 banknotes returned

The Reserve Bank of India reports that 98.42 percent of Rs 2,000 banknotes have been returned. This withdrawal began on May 19, 2023. The total value of these notes in circulation has significantly decreased. People could deposit or exchange these notes at bank branches until October 7, 2023.

2 Feb 2026 7:43 pm
Customs revenue target modest, achievable: CBIC chief

Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenues in FY27 are projected to grow at 6.3 per cent, with a buoyancy of 0.94 even after a reduction in tax rates on about 375 items with effect from September 22, 2025, Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Chairman Vivek Chaturvedi said in a post-Budget interview.

2 Feb 2026 7:43 pm
Market Trading Guide: Buy Bajaj Consumer, Delhivery, 3 more stocks on Tuesday for up to 10% potential upside

Nifty surged after the Budget-day slump, led by auto, energy, and metals. Analysts caution broader trend remains weak below 200-DMA, advising cautious trading and selective stock entries.

2 Feb 2026 7:30 pm
Centre planning underground rail tracks along 40-km corridor connecting Northeast, rest of India: Ashwini Vaishnaw

Plans are underway to lay underground railway tracks along a 40-km strategic corridor in West Bengal. This vital route, known as the 'Chicken's Neck', will connect the northeast with the rest of India. The existing double line will also be converted to a four-line track. This development enhances connectivity and security for the region.

2 Feb 2026 7:27 pm
Govt mulls stake sale in LIC via FPO in next financial year

The government is actively considering further reducing its stake in insurance behemoth LIC through a public offering in the next financial year, Financial Services Secretary M Nagaraju said on Monday.

2 Feb 2026 7:18 pm
Govt considering merger of state-run entities PFC and REC

The government is exploring a merger of Power Finance Corporation and REC Ltd. This move is part of a broader restructuring effort for public sector financial institutions. The Power Ministry will work out the details. A similar merger was considered in 2019 but did not materialize. Shares of both companies saw a rise following earlier announcements.

2 Feb 2026 7:13 pm
Budget FY27 to boost farmers' income, strengthen cooperatives: NDDB Chairman

New Delhi. The Union Budget 2026-27 offers significant boosts to agriculture and allied sectors. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a comprehensive package aimed at enhancing farmers' incomes and strengthening the cooperative movement. The animal husbandry sector sees a substantial increase in allocation. A key proposal extends tax benefits to cattle feed, reducing the burden on primary cooperatives.

2 Feb 2026 7:13 pm
Hyundai Motor India posts steady profit growth as SUV demand rises

Hyundai Motor India reported a 6.3% net profit increase to Rs 1,194.9 crore in Q3FY26, driven by strong SUV sales, rural demand, operational efficiency, and positive effects of GST 2.0 and tax cuts.

2 Feb 2026 7:04 pm
Relaxation to SEZ units on domestic sales will be temporary: Revenue secretary

In a bid to alleviate the pressures of fluctuating global trade, Special Economic Zone units now have the chance to tap into the domestic market. This initiative, designed as a limited-time opportunity, will enable SEZ manufacturers to sell their goods directly within the local tariff area.

2 Feb 2026 6:52 pm