The Economic Times News

Ahead of the Union Budget, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) urged the government to prioritize fiscal discipline and institutional reform to safeguard India's growth amidst global uncertainty. CII's recommendations focus on debt sustainability, fiscal transparency, revenue mobilization, and controlled public spending, advocating for a higher tax-to-GDP ratio and strategic disinvestment.

Shyam Dhani Industries SME IPO drew bids worth Rs 25,000 crore, making it the most subscribed SME issue of 2025 and the fifth highest ever.

In 2025, India enacted significant economic reforms to boost competitiveness and resilience amidst global uncertainties. Key initiatives included income-tax relief, GST restructuring, labor code modernisation, and FDI liberalisation in insurance. These measures aimed to stimulate domestic demand, attract investment, and unlock the nation's untapped potential for sustained growth.

India's trade focus must shift from signing new deals to maximising existing free trade agreements for export growth, especially in electronics, engineering, and textiles. Facing a challenging global trade environment with rising protectionism and new climate barriers, the nation's export success in 2026 hinges on domestic execution, including quality upgrades and cost reduction, rather than external opportunities.

Indian exporters across various sectors have significant potential to increase shipments to New Zealand, helping the island nation reduce its reliance on China. Despite a bilateral free trade agreement, India's current share in New Zealand's imports is minimal across key categories like agriculture, petroleum, and apparel, indicating a largely untapped market.

Nifty snapped its three-day rally to close marginally lower amid profit booking in IT and consumer stocks, with markets expected to trade in a narrow range due to holiday-thinned volumes and lack of triggers.

Indian markets ended lower in thin pre-Christmas trade as foreign selling and a lack of triggers weighed on sentiment, with Sensex and Nifty slipping marginally. Analysts said trading remained subdued in the holiday-shortened week, though RBI liquidity steps may support markets amid mixed global cues.

LIC has cut its stake in Hindustan Copper by 2% through open-market sales between August and December, reducing its holding to about 4.1%.

Signature Global is investing a substantial Rs 4,800 crore in a new luxury housing project in Gurugram, featuring 1,798 apartments on Dwarka Expressway. This ambitious development, named 'Sarvam at DXP Estate', aims to bolster the company's expansion strategy amidst robust consumer demand. The project emphasizes sustainability and wellness, with completion anticipated by 2032.

Japanese government bonds saw gains on Thursday. This was driven by news of a potential cut in super-long bond issuance for the next fiscal year. This eased concerns about an oversupply of these bonds. Shorter-term bond yields rose due to expectations of further interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan. The yen strengthened against the dollar.

Markets closed for Christmas, but five broker-recommended stocks offer 7%-16% upside. Key picks include Jio Financial Services, APL Apollo, CEAT, Godrej Consumer, and Belrise Industries. Technical indicators suggest potential breakouts and steady accumulation, making these stocks noteworthy for short-to-medium-term investors.

Investors are preparing for 2026 with a focus on building well-balanced portfolios. Sunny Agrawal of SBI Securities shares insights on asset allocation for the year ahead. Equities are expected to offer steady returns, while global uncertainties shape markets. Precious metals like gold and silver may see increased demand. The article also discusses sector-specific opportunities and key market triggers for 2026.

India's retail sector is set for strong growth in 2026. Demand is shifting to smaller cities, boosting the market. Digital integration and new mall developments are key drivers. Experts predict double-digit growth, with technology and consumer focus shaping the future.

The coming year will test whether the labour codes can deliver the balance they promise: security for workers, flexibility for employers, and a framework suited to a changing economy.

India led global IPOs in November with 22 listings. The nation secured second place for funds raised, collecting $3.7 billion. Asian markets were strong, contributing over $12 billion to the global total. Indian IPOs showed robust performance, with many mainboard and SME issues listing at a premium. Financial services led fundraising in mainboard IPOs.

India is unlikely to achieve the ambitious target of USD 1 trillion in exports of goods and services in FY26, with global slowdown and protectionism weighing on merchandise shipments, economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI)on Wednesday.

India revamped its tax system in 2025, slashing Goods and Services Tax rates and increasing income tax exemptions. The focus now shifts to simplifying customs duties and procedures. These reforms aimed to boost domestic demand and economic growth. The Goods and Services Tax overhaul simplified the indirect tax structure. Income tax relief was provided to middle-income earners.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India has doubled the monetary threshold for simplified documentation when issuing duplicate securities. Investors holding securities valued up to Rs 10 lakh will now face fewer procedural burdens. This move aims to ease compliance and remove inconsistencies. Notarisation of the Affidavit-cum-Indemnity Bond is also waived for securities up to Rs 10,000.

Indian real estate enters 2026 with steady demand, stronger institutional interest, and emerging investment opportunities. Residential priorities shift toward liveability, infrastructure, and sustainability, while commercial assets offer structured income. Experts highlight key investment strategies for Rs 12 crore, focusing on location, asset quality, and long-term fundamentals.

As Indian equity markets hit new highs, investors increasingly recognise the value of global diversification. With India accounting for only ~44.5% of global market capitalisation, overseas markets offer access to structural growth themes, innovation, and currency diversification. Experts recommend allocating 1020% of portfolios to global assets, via ETFs, international mutual funds, or direct stock investment through LRS, to enhance resilience and long-term wealth creation.

Despite a challenging year for Indian equities, select Adani Group companies generated positive returns in 2025, led by Adani Power, as investors rewarded operational resilience and sectoral tailwinds.

Indias primary market is gearing up for a blockbuster 2026, with over 190 companies either approved or awaiting clearance from Sebi to raise more than Rs 2.5 lakh crore through IPOs. From Reliance Jio and NSE to Flipkart and PhonePe, several marquee names are expected to shape market sentiment next year.

While the Sensex gained about 9% since last Christmas, a select group of BSE stocks delivered exceptional returns of up to 518%, turning into multibaggers over the past year.

Indian equity markets are showing a bullish technical setup despite recent range-bound trading. Analysts suggest Nifty may consolidate before a potential move higher, with mid-caps showing signs of revival. Railway stocks are gaining interest ahead of the Union Budget, while IT and FMCG sectors remain constructive.

The AI revolution is fueling a massive investment boom, with some experts warning of an inevitable bubble. Transformative technologies historically lead to asset inflation, and AI's rapid integration into markets and the economy is no exception. Concerns are rising as AI's impact on GDP growth and market valuations intensifies.

The report noted that while private banks remain the primary lenders to enterprises, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) are steadily gaining share, particularly among sole proprietors, where they now command over 41 per cent of the lending share.

Against all odds, the Russian ruble has risen impressively against the dollar, leaving officials astonished. This unexpected improvement is playing a crucial role in the wartime economy, showcasing the impact of reduced foreign currency demand and a stringent monetary policy.

LTIMindtree has seen its stock soar by 18% over the last quarter, surpassing the broader IT index. Recently reported new order bookings have exceeded market expectations, leading analysts to adjust their target prices upwards. The company has also demonstrated sequential revenue and net profit growth, alongside enhanced operating margins attributed to efficiency improvements.

A study by Omniscience Capital reveals that nearly 65% of India's Nifty 500 stocks are overvalued, with the index trading at a high P/E ratio relative to its growth prospects. While financials, utilities, industrials, and energy sectors appear attractively positioned, consumer staples, healthcare, and IT sectors show overvaluation.

As the holiday season approaches, Bitcoin is struggling to capture the festive spirit. While traditional assets like stocks and gold are enjoying a celebratory surge, cryptocurrency enthusiasts find themselves in a state of stagnation. After a tumultuous autumn sell-off, Bitcoin is trading within a confined range, and trading volumes have dropped significantly, reflecting a decline in retail trading enthusiasm.

Indian companies issued fewer dollar bonds in 2025. They preferred the domestic rupee market for refinancing debt. This shift was driven by cost savings and ample local funds. Major groups like Vedanta and GMR utilized onshore issuance. Offshore issuance is expected to recover in 2026, potentially exceeding $10 billion.

Indian markets saw a strong performance as US stocks hit record highs. The Dow and S&P 500 closed at new peaks. AI stocks rebounded, boosting investor confidence. Jobless claims fell unexpectedly, indicating economic resilience. Investors are anticipating potential rate cuts from the Federal Reserve next year. Trading volumes were light due to the holiday season.

Hindustan Copper and Hindustan Zinc shares reached new highs on Wednesday, driven by global metal rallies. Hindustan Copper's surge is attributed to tightening global copper supplies and rising demand from new-age sectors, while Hindustan Zinc benefits from a sharp increase in silver prices, a key by-product for the company.

Government bonds rallied as the central bank announced significant liquidity infusion measures, including 2 lakh crore in bond purchases and a $10 billion dollar-rupee swap. This move aims to ease tight liquidity conditions caused by forex market intervention and tax outflows, with the 10-year bond yield dropping sharply.

India's primary market achieved a record in 2025. Mainboard IPOs raised 1.75 lakh crore. This surge was driven by large listings and strong demand from domestic investors. The SME segment also saw significant growth. This marks a landmark phase for India's primary markets, reflecting scale and depth. The momentum is expected to continue.

Christmas 2025 Stock Market Holiday: NSE and BSE are closed for trading today due to the Christmas holiday. The commodity exchanges MCX and NCDEX will also take a day's break and resume trading on Friday.

Businesses are pushing the government to fix tax uncertainties and speed up dispute resolution. Unclear rules and treaty issues could lead to more tax cases. Industry leaders want the budget to cut litigation and reform Tax Deducted at Source. A large number of appeals are pending, causing delays.

India has granted New Zealand market access for apples under a new trade pact. The agreement includes safeguards to protect local farmers. A concessional duty applies only to a specific quota. Imports beyond this quota will face the full existing duty.

India and the European Union are set for crucial trade talks in early January. Discussions will cover geographical indications, critical mineral exports, and the EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism. India's steel export concerns are also on the agenda. Officials are working towards a swift agreement.

SEBI has approved NHAI's Raajmarg Infra Investment Trust (RIIT), a public InvIT designed to monetize national highway assets and offer retail investors a stake in infrastructure growth. The first issuance is expected in February 2026, with 1,500 km of highways to be introduced over the next three to five years, fostering public participation in national development.

Logistics firm Yatayat Corporation India Ltd has filed preliminary papers for an IPO, aiming to raise funds through a fresh issue of equity shares and an offer for sale. The company plans to use the proceeds for debt repayment, working capital, and general corporate needs.

Sebi is making demat accounts simpler for investors. Zero Coupon Zero Principal bonds and delisted securities will no longer count towards the value limit for Basic Services Demat Accounts. This change aims to ease investing and reduce compliance burdens. These new rules will be effective from March 31, 2026.

Indian Railway Finance Corporation has successfully refinanced a Rs 10,000 crore foreign currency loan from the World Bank. This move pertains to the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor project. The refinancing is projected to save India Rs 2,700 crore.

U.S. financial markets will close early on Christmas Eve and remain shut for Christmas Day, returning to a normal schedule Friday. Stocks traded sideways Wednesday following a record session, with investors anticipating a Santa Claus rally. This year-end period typically sees markets drift higher due to limited economic news.

Market experts on Wednesday advised investors to focus on global diversification alongside India's strengthening domestic fundamentals while planning their portfolios for 2026, citing currency depreciation risks and a structurally improving Indian economy.

The Reserve Bank has postponed the second phase of its faster cheque clearance system. This move provides banks more time to adjust their operations. The new system was scheduled to begin on January 3. Earlier, the first phase faced some initial challenges.

Shares of Agios Pharmaceuticals jumped nearly 16% on Wednesday after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the expanded use of its drug for the treatment of a type of blood disorder.

SFIO has initiated an investigation into IndusInd Bank over discrepancies in its derivatives trades and certain balance sheet accounts. The bank informed exchanges about receiving a formal notice and said it is cooperating fully with the probe under the Companies Act.

Nike shares rose nearly 4% in early trading on Wednesday after Apple CEO Tim Cook doubled his personal stake in the sportswear maker, raising his bets on the margin-pinching turnaround efforts led by CEO Elliott Hill.

Gold surged to a fresh lifetime high above $4,500 an ounce on safe-haven demand, central bank buying and rate-cut hopes. Domestic prices also hit records, aided by a weaker rupee, with analysts predicting a move toward $5,000 amid global uncertainty.