Business / The Economic Times
Indias wholesale price inflation fell to 1.21% in October, reversing from 0.13% in September, led by sharp declines in food, fuel and manufactured goods. Food articles saw 8.31% deflation, with vegetables at 34.97%, pulses at 16.50%, potatoes at 39.88%, and onions at 65.43%. Fuel and power recorded 2.55% inflation, while manufactured products eased to 1.54%.
Tyre maker MRF announced an interim dividend of Rs 3 per share for the financial year ending March 2026. This comes as the company reported a 12% rise in its September quarter net profit. Shareholders will receive the dividend after December 5, 2025. The record date for eligibility is November 21.
The IMF highlights growing strains in the U.S. economy as the prolonged government shutdown disrupts data and delays its annual review. Moderating demand, slower job growth, and tariff pressures cloud the outlook, though a rebound is expected early next year. Inflation risks persist, while U.S. engagement in G20 discussions remains critical.
Bitcoin tumbled below $100,000, dropping over 4% to $97,451 and triggering broad market panic as sell-offs intensified. Ethereum and major altcoins also slid sharply, pushing sentiment toward extreme fear. Analysts say uncertainty over U.S. economic data and Fed policy is adding pressure, though long-term accumulation by whales signals underlying support.
Bihar election results are in and markets are calm. Investors are looking ahead to company earnings and government reforms. Consumption companies are seeing temporary softness. Commercial vehicle sales are expected to rise, signaling economic growth. Companies like Ashok Leyland and Tata Motors are poised for gains. Investors can find opportunities in economic recovery themes.
Oswal Pumps Ltd has announced a significant 48% surge in its consolidated net profit, reaching Rs 97.50 crore for the September quarter. This impressive growth is underpinned by a substantial rise in total income, which climbed to Rs 546.48 crore from Rs 310.84 crore in the same period last year.
Asian Paints sharp rally, Biocons biosimilar boost, and improving valuations in private banks are reshaping market sentiment, says Nuvamas CIO Nikhil Ranka. He explains why Biocon still has 1015% upside, why Asian Paints may consolidate, and why large private banks now look attractive despite short-term NIM pressures. Read the full market outlook and sector-wise insights.
Indian government bonds experienced a further decline on Friday. Traders are anticipating a significant supply of debt. The Reserve Bank of India's unexpected cash withdrawal operation has surprised the market. This has led to increased yields on benchmark notes. New Delhi plans to raise substantial funds through bond sales. Demand for long-term bonds has weakened, adding to market concerns.
India has become the reverse AI trade in emerging markets, underperforming the MSCI Emerging Markets Index by 27 percentage points year-to-date, according to Jefferies Chris Wood. While the rupee has fallen 3.4% to Rs 88.7, Indias lower exposure to the AI-driven rally in Taiwan, Korea, and China positions it as a contrarian play for long-term investors.
Paras Defence and Space Technologies shares surged following strong September quarter results, with net profit jumping 50% and revenue climbing 22%. The company also secured a significant Rs 35.68 crore order from the Ministry of Defence for Portable Counter-Drone Systems, alongside a Rs 3.95 crore order for Radio Frequency Jammers. This positive news has propelled the stock to new highs.
Ram Ratna Wires announces 1:1 bonus shares with record date on 26 Dec. Q2FY26 PAT rises 29.9%, revenue up 23.8%, and stock has delivered 136% returns over two years.
The yens expected rebound failed as the U.S. economy stayed firm while Japan maintained low rates, preventing policy convergence. Traders unwound long-yen positions amid widening rate gaps, weak yields, and rising carry trades. Analysts now see limited conviction, with the yen likely to drift sideways or weaken further.
Indian bond yields saw a dip in October. The Reserve Bank of India maintained a dovish stance, easing inflation concerns. However, rupee support measures tightened liquidity. Despite this, foreign investors bought bonds. Yields are expected to remain stable, with State Development Loans showing promise. Easing inflation and strong fundamentals support the market.
Ather Energy witnessed significant block deals totaling Rs 545 crore as NIIF-II booked profits by offloading shares. Boston-based Ghisallo and Societe Generale were among the notable buyers, acquiring substantial stakes in the electric two-wheeler manufacturer. Other investors like Invesco Mutual Fund and Motilal Oswal also participated in the transaction.
Pine Labs delivered a strong market debut, listing at a 9.5% premium and rallying further to give IPO investors gains of nearly 30% from the IPO price. Brokerages remain positive on the companys long-term prospects but advise allotted investors to hold.
As vote counting begins for the Bihar polls, investors are eyeing companies with significant exposure to the state. Stocks across sectors like retail, infrastructure, media, housing, and public services could see renewed momentum, with markets factoring in policy continuity and development-led spending. Early trends suggest the NDA has crossed the majority mark, boosting investor interest in Bihar-linked firms.
Children's dreams of becoming astronauts or doctors require financial backing. With education costs in India doubling every six years, parents must plan ahead. Life insurance offers a robust solution, providing not just protection but also a savings tool to fund academic goals, ensuring ambitions can take flight regardless of life's uncertainties.
Fujiyama Power Systems Rs 828-crore IPO entered its second day on November 15. The offer includes a fresh issue and an OFS from existing shareholders, aimed at funding capacity expansion and working capital needs. The solar equipment manufacturer has drawn sluggish investor interest, while brokerages remain optimistic about long-term prospects despite near-term valuation concerns.
Societe Generale made significant investments on Thursday. The French bank acquired stakes in Sammaan Capital, Tata Capital, and Axis Bank. Its largest purchase was in Sammaan Capital. These block deals involved substantial financial transactions. Investors will be watching these companies closely following this development.
Voltas shares slipped nearly 3% after the company reported a sharp 76% YoY drop in Q2 net profit to Rs 32 crore, reflecting continued margin pressure and operational headwinds despite pockets of recovery across segments. The stock later recovered from its lows, trading 0.5% higher at Rs 1,344.20 around 10 am, signalling some buying interest at lower levels.
Gold prices strengthened as a softer dollar supported global bullion, though hawkish Federal Reserve comments limited gains. Domestic gold futures opened firm, with both gold and silver posting strong weekly advances. Rate-cut expectations have eased, while renewed economic data flow after the U.S. shutdown offered stability. Physical market prices remained broadly steady across major cities.
Bharat Dynamics rose sharply after its Q2 PAT surged 76% YoY to Rs 216 crore, and revenue doubled to Rs 1,147 crore. The company won a major Rs 2,095.7 crore defence order for Invar anti-tank missiles, boosting investor sentiment.
Growws parent company, Billionbrains Garage Ventures, extended its post-listing rally on Friday, with the stock trading nearly 50% above its issue price. The companys Rs 6,632-crore IPO, open from November 4 to 7, drew strong interest, recording 17 times subscription led by institutional buyers. Brokerages see solid long-term potential but caution about high valuations.
A recent US government shutdown has sparked debate on its impact on America's global standing and trade relations with India. Market expert Santosh Rao suggests the political narrative remains divided, with uncertainty clouding trade talks. While the shutdown highlights governance strains and fiscal concerns, its long-term economic impact is expected to be limited, with the US economy showing resilience.
Infosys' Rs 18,000 crore share buyback is underway. Shareholders can tender shares at a premium. The focus now shifts to tendering strategy and potential acceptance ratios. Analysts suggest participation for small shareholders. The buyback aims to return capital and improve earnings per share. Investors must consider tax implications and holding costs for their decisions.
Reliance Group chairman Anil Ambani will appear virtually before the Enforcement Directorate. He received a summons under FEMA related to a 2010 highway project. The ED is investigating alleged hawala transactions of Rs 100 crore. Ambani's spokesperson stated he will fully cooperate. The matter concerns a road contractor and a domestic contract. The highway project is now with the NHAI.
Asian Paints' stock has surged 23% in a month, signaling a fundamental turnaround. The aggressive entry of competitor Birla Opus has faltered, with dealers returning to established players. Asian Paints' strong September quarter results, coupled with its deep distribution network and brand loyalty, suggest it's well-positioned to defend its market leadership and potentially surpass its 2022 peak.
Federal Reserve officials are adopting a more cautious stance on future rate cuts as persistent inflation, mixed economic signals, and labour-market resilience cloud the outlook. Divisions within the Fed are widening ahead of the December meeting, reducing market expectations and increasing the likelihood of dissent over the next policy move.
Market expert Satish Ramanathan of JM Financial Asset notes that while Indian equities remain richly valued, pockets of value are emerging in BFSI, utilities, and metals. He suggests largecaps offer a safer allocation and highlights opportunities in green energy and AI-driven IT companies, advocating for patience and selective investing.
Muthoot Finances share price rallied sharply on Friday after Q2 profit surged 87% YoY to Rs 2,345 crore, driven by strong gold loan AUM growth, improved NIM and robust interest income. Brokerages raised estimates, while the company lifted its FY26 AUM growth guidance to 3035%.
India and Canada have announced long-term partnerships in critical minerals and clean energy, alongside exploring aerospace trade opportunities. This marks a revival in bilateral ties following discussions at the 7th Ministerial Dialogue on Trade and Investment in New Delhi. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to economic cooperation and strengthening supply chains.
Pine Labs share price: Fintech major Pine Labs debuted on the stock exchange with a 9.5% premium, listing at Rs 242. The Rs 3,900-crore IPO saw strong institutional demand, with QIBs subscribing 3.97 times. The company, a recognized merchant commerce platform, turned profitable in Q1 FY26, with IPO proceeds earmarked for debt repayment, technology investments, and expansion.
Crude oil prices tumbled after OPEC+ signaled a looming supply glut, with Brent hovering near $62. Australia-Trading.com CEO Peter McGuire warns Brent may slip below $60 and even touch $57 amid rising US output and weak demand outlook. While geopolitical shocks could spark brief spikes, the broader trend remains bearish, with softer crude expected through 2026.
India's fintech giants Groww and Zerodha are reshaping online investing. Groww recently listed on public markets, raising significant capital and boosting its brand. Zerodha, however, continues its private, self-funded journey. This divergence highlights different paths to success in the booming Indian financial sector.
India Inc's Q2 earnings reveal a robust recovery, with over 100 companies more than doubling profits, signaling broad demand resilience. Renewable energy, PSUs, and select consumption stocks led the surge. Analysts believe the earnings cycle has bottomed out, anticipating accelerated double-digit growth ahead, driven by margin improvements and topline expansion.
Orkla India, the parent of MTR, posted a 7% YoY decline in Q2 net profit to Rs 76.7 crore, while revenue rose 5% to Rs 650.3 crore. EBITDA dipped over 3% due to GST 2.0 migration costs and lower PLI benefits, though adjusted margins improved.
As of November 13, five stocks in the NSE F&O segment recorded a strong rise in futures open interest, indicating increased derivatives participation and expanding trader positions. Alkem Laboratories, NBCC (India), PG Electroplast, Samvardhana Motherson International and Tata Steel registered notable double-digit OI gains, signalling heightened market activity.
Indian equity benchmarks Nifty and Sensex opened sharply lower on Friday, snapping a four-day rally. Investors closely watched Bihar Election results, with Metal and IT stocks leading the decline. Tata Motors CV, Infosys, and Tata Steel were among the major laggards on the Sensex.
Seven mid- and large-cap stocks, including Ashok Leyland and Precision Wires, hit their 5-year swing highs, signalling strengthening bullish momentum.
Five NSE large-cap stocks, including ICICI Bank and Hindalco, showed a bullish RSI upswing as their momentum indicators crossed above 50.
Tenneco Clean Air Indias Rs 3,600-crore IPO has entered its final bidding day with strong demand, recording 2.93x subscription by Day 2 after receiving 19.52 crore bids for 6.66 crore shares. The issue is also attracting solid grey market interest, with a GMP of Rs 76, about 19%, indicating a potential listing price near Rs 473 versus the issue price of Rs 397.
PG Electroplast share price: PG Electroplast reported an 88% YoY decline in Q2 PAT to Rs 2.38 crore, while revenue fell 2.4% to Rs 655.37 crore. EBITDA dropped 26.2% to Rs 44.68 crore. Room AC sales were impacted by early monsoons and GST changes, while washing machines saw 46.9% growth.
Sagility experienced a significant block deal on November 14, with 2.2 crore shares traded, boosting the stock by 5.6%. This follows reports of promoters planning to offload up to a 16.4% stake. The company also reported a two-fold profit increase to Rs 251 crore in Q2, with revenue up 25%.
Adani Power has won a major order from Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd to develop a 3,200 MW ultra-supercritical thermal power plant. APDCL will procure the full capacity, with phased commissioning starting December 2030. Morgan Stanley raised its target to Rs 185, citing robust growth, strong PPAs, regulatory clarity, and an expanded portfolio that positions APL for rising market share and earnings.
Hero MotoCorp share price: Hero MotoCorp reported a 16% YoY rise in Q2 net profit to Rs 1,393 crore, with revenue at Rs 12,126 crore. Vehicle volumes grew 11%, EBITDA rose 20%, and EV arm Vida achieved 11.7% market share, supported by strong festive season demand and international dispatch growth.
DSP Mutual Fund's Sahil Kapoor advises caution, noting elevated valuations and stagnant fundamentals despite market optimism. He urges investors to distinguish sentiment-driven rallies from genuine recovery, emphasizing the need to monitor earnings quality and margin trends. Kapoor also shares insights on gold, the US Fed's policy impact, and attractive sectors.
Indian markets are consolidating, with midcap valuations appearing stretched. Equitree Capital's Pawan Bharaddia highlights the 1,0005,000 crore market-cap segment as a sweet spot, offering strong earnings growth at reasonable valuations. He also identifies India's tourism sector as a potential multi-decadal investment opportunity due to improving connectivity and domestic travel.
Indian businesses are turning to Saudi Arabia for trade and investment opportunities. Global uncertainty is making the Kingdom a more appealing destination. Many companies are interested in technology and infrastructure. Businesses plan to increase trade and investment in Saudi Arabia over the next five years. The country's economic stability and strong non-oil sector are key attractions.
Hubtown Ltd reported a significant 65% surge in its consolidated net profit to Rs 31.67 crore for the September quarter, driven by a substantial increase in total income to Rs 263.29 crore. The company highlighted strong performance in its luxury residential projects and anticipates adding over 5 million sq ft of developable area through proposed amalgamations, alongside planned commercial developments.
Realty firm 91Springboard is expanding its flexible workspace offerings. The company has leased approximately 1 lakh square feet of office space in Mumbai and Gurugram. These new facilities are set to open next quarter. This expansion is driven by increasing demand from corporations. 91Springboard has already added significant space this year and plans further growth.

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