The Times of India

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has introduced significant amendments to the Companies Act, aiming to decriminalize procedural defaults and boost flexibility in share buybacks. The proposed changes also introduce new executive compensation instruments and streamline merger processes. Special benches for the National Company Law Tribunal are planned, alongside relaxations for small companies regarding CSR requirements.

India's economy shows resilience, but the Reserve Bank of India notes rising price risks. A severe global conflict in West Asia has disrupted oil and commodity markets, causing price surges and volatility. This geopolitical shock is impacting financial systems, leading to equity market sell-offs and pressure on emerging market currencies, including the Indian Rupee.

Lakshmi Mittal has launched his most ambitious greenfield project in India, breaking ground on an 8.2 million-tonne steel plant in Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh. ArcelorMittal will invest over Rs 70,000 crore in the facility, expected to begin operations by early 2029. This marks a significant renewed push into India for the steel magnate, following earlier unmaterialized greenfield plans.

India Inc's private sector capital expenditure is projected to dip by nearly 17% next year, signaling a more cautious approach from large firms amid global uncertainties. While final spending might exceed current conservative estimates, a slight stabilization is expected after a strong 2025-26. Emerging sectors like green energy and robotics also see planned investment declines.

Global markets surged Monday as President Trump announced talks with Iran and a delay in planned strikes, easing fears of Middle East conflict. US stocks rallied significantly, oil prices tumbled, and European markets reversed earlier losses. However, Iran challenged the negotiation claims, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the de-escalation.

In times of geopolitical uncertainties, gold is the go to investment - its a time-tested safe haven that investors rush to. Then why are gold prices plunging amidst the ongoing war? Does this mean that golds safe haven appeal is fading?

The Indian rupee hit an all-time low against the dollar, breaching 94 for the first time amid Middle East tensions, significant foreign fund outflows, and soaring crude oil prices. This sharp decline, extending since the regional conflict began, has put pressure on Asia's third-largest economy, highly reliant on imported energy. The Reserve Bank of India is reportedly offering mild support.

IndiGo has appointed Aloke Singh, former Air India Express MD & CEO, as its Chief Strategy Officer. This move, by interim CEO Rahul Bhatia, signals an aggressive talent acquisition strategy. Singh's expertise in aviation strategy and operations is expected to drive IndiGo's global expansion and enhance its competitive edge in a dynamic market.

What does this latest disruption mean for the growth prospects of Asian economies that are in large part dependent on oil and energy imports. Since the start of the Middle East conflict, passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz has been curtailed.

Indian stock markets experienced a severe downturn Monday, mirroring a global sell-off. Escalating Middle East tensions, rising crude oil prices, consistent foreign investor withdrawals, and a record-low rupee significantly impacted investor confidence, leading to broad-based losses across major indices and sectors.

Oil prices experienced a sharp decline as President Trump ordered a five-day halt to planned military strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, easing fears of Middle East conflict escalation. Brent crude fell over 13%, and WTI slid significantly, reversing earlier gains driven by concerns over disrupted oil transit routes.

As the Middle East conflict disrupts global energy supplies, Saudi Arabia has activated its 1,200-kilometer East-West pipeline to maintain oil exports. This crucial inland route, rerouting crude to the Red Sea port of Yanbu, is now a pivotal alternative to the closed Strait of Hormuz, ensuring continued market access despite escalating tensions and past attacks.

PM Modi pointed out that cargo movement through the Strait of Hormuz has been challenging since the conflict began, but the government is taking steps to ensure that supplies of gas and fuel face minimal disruption.

The vessels, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, both classified as very large gas carriers, moved northward from the UAE coast toward Irans Qeshm and Larak islands early on Monday.

Middle East tensions are significantly impacting global financial markets, pushing the Indian Rupee to record lows near 94 against the US dollar. Analysts believe crude oil prices and geopolitical developments, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, will dictate the currency's next move. The Reserve Bank of India is expected to intervene to manage volatility.

Argentina has increased its supply of LPG to India as shortages emerge following disruptions caused by the West Asia conflict, according to people aware of the development.

Stock market recommendations: Coal India, and JB Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals stocks that Sudeep Shah, Head - Technical Research and Derivatives, SBI Securities recommends buying for the week starting March 23, 2026. There is also a detailed analysis on Nifty and Bank Nifty:

The Middle East conflict is impacting global markets, causing a sell-off in cryptocurrencies and pushing Bitcoin below $70,000. Rapid liquidations and macroeconomic pressures like elevated oil prices are weighing on digital assets. Analysts suggest a cautious consolidation phase, with short-term volatility expected to persist due to geopolitical events and reduced US rate cut expectations.

Gold futures experienced a significant sell-off, dropping by Rs 8,089 to Rs 1.36 lakh per 10 grams on Monday, mirroring global trends. This decline, attributed to inflation fears and a stronger US dollar, marks the fourth consecutive week of losses for the yellow metal. Analysts anticipate continued downward pressure amid geopolitical tensions and potential interest rate hikes.

The selloff was triggered by the resignation of Atanu Chakraborty, who said that certain happenings and practices within the bank over the past two years did not align with his personal values and ethics.

Gold price prediction today: Gold is seeing intense selling pressure and this is likely to continue this week amid global tensions, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.

Asian markets experienced a significant sell-off, with South Korea's Kospi plunging 6%, as fears of a deepening energy crisis gripped investors. Geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and potential US-Iran conflict, fueled the market panic. Investors fled technology and consumption sectors, while energy-linked stocks saw inflows amid concerns over global supply chains and rising oil prices.

Gold prices have plummeted to their steepest weekly fall in nearly four decades, dropping significantly from recent highs. Despite Middle East tensions, the precious metal's safe-haven appeal has waned, with broader financial factors now dominating. Analysts suggest current lower prices could offer opportunities for long-term investors, though short-term volatility persists.

The world faces an unprecedented energy crisis, a potent mix of oil and gas shocks, warns the International Energy Agency. With infrastructure damaged and the vital Strait of Hormuz threatened, global economic stability is at risk. The agency stresses the need for international cooperation to resolve the escalating situation and prevent widespread fuel shortages.

The Indian Rupee hit a record low against the US dollar, plummeting to 93.86 amid escalating Middle East tensions and fears of disrupted energy supplies. Crude oil prices have surged over 50% this month, exacerbating the currency's weakness. Indian stock markets also experienced a significant downturn, reflecting the global economic strain.

Stock market crash today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex plunged in opening trade on Monday with oil prices continuing to remain high amid the ongoing US-Iran war. Investor sentiment continues to weaken amid escalating tensions between Iran and the US, a falling rupee, and other global concerns.

Stock market recommendations: Ipca Laboratories, and Hindalco are the top stocks that Motilal Oswal Wealth Management Research Desk has picked for this week starting March 23, 2026.

Gujarat fishermen will continue to receive subsidised diesel after the Centre rolled back a steep Rs 22.43 per litre price hike for bulk fuel. The state government's intervention successfully shielded the fishing community from increased costs, ensuring diesel remains at previously agreed concessional rates.

The Iran war's fourth week sees a stark divergence between rising physical oil prices and futures, driven by the Strait of Hormuz closure and infrastructure attacks. Refiners face steep premiums, while trucking, shipping, and airline industries grapple with escalating fuel costs, impacting consumers and the broader economy.

Indian pharmaceutical giants like Sun Pharma, Torrent, and Dr. Reddy's have launched affordable semaglutide, a groundbreaking weight-loss drug, following Novo Nordisk's patent expiry. This move significantly reduces therapy costs, offering patients greater access to treatment for obesity and type-2 diabetes. Torrent Pharma even introduced both oral and injectable versions, marking a significant step in addressing India's growing metabolic disorder crisis.

India anticipates meeting peak summer electricity demand despite Middle East conflict, relying on coal, renewables, and battery storage. Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal stated limited gas dependence shields the system. A 4 GW imported coal plant and fast-tracked wind projects will bolster supply, while solar covers daytime needs and batteries address evening demand.

India imports a big percentage of its crude oil, LPG, and LNG needs and a substantial portion of that transits through the Strait of Hormuz which is a narrow maritime route, in effect closed since the start of the US-Israel-Iran war.

Rahul Gandhi criticizes the central government over the rupee's record low. He warns of inevitable inflation due to the West Asia crisis impacting fuel prices. Gandhi states production and transport costs will rise, hitting small businesses. He predicts hikes in petrol, diesel, and LPG prices after state elections.

Six years after locking foreign capital out of the door, India has opened it just wide enough. The Cabinet's amendment to Press Note 3 clears the fog around who can invest from where. What it does not do is throw open the floodgates.

The US faces a paradox in its conflict with Iran, relying on the nation's oil to stabilize global markets while simultaneously trying to weaken it. Disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on energy infrastructure have sent prices soaring, forcing Washington to ease sanctions on Iranian crude. This move offers temporary relief but highlights the limited options available.

Global markets are experiencing volatility due to the Middle East conflict, leading to significant investor wealth erosion. Experts advise retail investors to remain patient and avoid panic-driven decisions, emphasizing that short-term market swings are normal. India's strong economic fundamentals and robust capital markets support a long-term investment perspective.

India sees a cautious easing of maritime movement as three crude oil tankers successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, with two more LPG tankers preparing to follow. This comes after diplomatic engagements with Iran, ensuring safe passage for Indian vessels amidst regional tensions. The successful transits underscore India's commitment to securing unhindered movement for its fleet.

Foreign portfolio investors continued their withdrawal from Dalal Street this week, with net outflows reaching Rs 35,475 crore. Middle East tensions and elevated crude oil prices have fueled investor caution, leading to a risk-off approach. This sustained selling trend marks the highest monthly outflow for 2026 so far.

The Middle East conflict's fourth week is impacting global economies, with nations like Germany, Italy, Britain, Japan, and India facing significant energy cost pressures and supply chain vulnerabilities. Iran's role in the Strait of Hormuz is a key concern. Countries are implementing austerity and cost-control measures amid rising inflation and currency depreciation.

Indian refiners are considering resuming Iranian crude oil purchases following a temporary US sanctions waiver. This move aims to ease an energy crunch caused by Middle East supply disruptions, with millions of barrels of Iranian crude already in transit. Clarification on payment terms from Washington is awaited before finalising shipments.

Amidst Middle East conflict and soaring oil prices, Indian oil companies have increased premium petrol variants by over Rs 2 per litre. However, retail prices for regular petrol and diesel remain unchanged, while industrial diesel costs have surged by Rs 22 per litre due to global crude oil volatility.

India's crude oil imports have significantly dropped in March due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, forcing refiners to pivot towards Russia and African producers. Russia has emerged as the largest supplier, nearly doubling its shipments, while African nations like Angola have also increased their exports to compensate for reduced Middle Eastern supplies.