The Economic Times
Elections 2026Company / The Economic Times
Nat Habit has secured Rs 142 crore in Series C funding led by Trident Growth Partners. The investment aims to enhance its product offerings and improve distribution channels in retail and quick commerce. The company plans to increase production capacity significantly over the next two years to meet rising demand. Additionally, Nat Habit will explore new product segments like body wash and hair colour.
Adani Green Energy reported a 24% year-on-year rise in operational capacity to 20,763 MW in H1FY27, while energy sales jumped 32% to 25,747 million units. The company added 4,083 MW of greenfield capacity and expanded its battery storage portfolio. Its board will consider Q2FY27 financial results on October 21.
DMart operator Avenue Supermarts reported an 8.5% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 743 crore in Q2FY27, while revenue grew 17.8% to Rs 19,644 crore. However, EBITDA and profit after tax margins declined amid entry-level wage inflation. The company opened 15 new stores during the quarter, taking its total to 518.
FIIs sold Indian equities for an eighth consecutive week, offloading Rs 30,294 crore, while DIIs bought Rs 30,313 crore to cushion the outflows. The Nifty 50 ended marginally higher, snapping its losing streak. Elevated crude oil prices, rupee weakness and global bond yields remain key factors shaping the outlook for a sustained recovery.
Ajinkya Shinde, the Cockroach Janta Partys national organisation in-charge, is leading the partys proposed Delhi protest after founder Abhijeet Dipke and two other leaders were detained at the airport on October 10.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti compared current restrictions in Delhi to those experienced in Kashmir after Article 370's abrogation. She accused the BJP government of manipulating public perception by claiming there were no protests. Mufti stated that the government crushes dissent and then denies its existence to portray false consent. The heightened security measures and route closures in Delhi evoke similar sentiments from Kashmir's past.
Khan Market and Connaught Place remained shut in New Delhi on Saturday amid protest-related security concerns, with traders warning of mounting losses from repeated disruptions. Khan Market Traders Association president Sanjiv Mehra estimated that a days closure could cost a shop Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh. Traders also cited rent, salaries, perishable goods and fears of property damage as reasons for staying closed, ANI reported.
Canara HSBC Life Insurance Company's September quarter has marked a significant growth, with a 5 percent rise in net profit, totaling Rs 43 crore from Rs 41 crore last year. This quarter also saw total income climb to Rs 2,511 crore, a rise in net premium collections reaching Rs 2,553 crore, and an increase in first-year premiums to Rs 642 crore, showcasing the company
Over the past year, the benchmark Nifty has remained largely flat, while the Nifty Midcap 150 index has gained around 11%. Within the midcap universe, 32 stocks have delivered double-digit returns. We spotlight eight standout performers that have surged anywhere between 50%-135% over the past year, including two multibaggers that have more than doubled investors
Fourteen smallcap stocks rose in each of the five trading sessions from October 5 to 9, outperforming the broader market. Alok Industries and Modern Insulators led the gainers with 28% advances each.
Jio Platforms
Indian equities snapped an eight-week losing streak as the Nifty 50 and Sensex rebounded on Friday. However, elevated crude prices, foreign investor outflows, inflation data, bond yields and the September-quarter earnings season could shape the market
On Friday, Indian IT stocks experienced an impressive surge, spearheaded by a remarkable 4.2% jump in Tata Consultancy Services shares. This unexpected rally took analysts by surprise, as it unfolded amidst ongoing concerns surrounding US regulations impacting technology firms. Additionally, OpenAI
Poonawalla Fincorp reported a remarkable net profit of 375 crore for the second quarter, marking impressive year-on-year growth. The company's loan portfolio expansion contributed to a stellar 75.6% rise in net interest income. Notably, new disbursements made up 28% of the total, exceeding 4,400 crore. The gross non-performing asset ratio improved to 1.2%, reflecting enhanced asset quality, while the capital adequacy ratio stood strong at 18.7%, indicating robust financial health.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has rolled out fresh regulations that modify how settlement amounts for securities violations are calculated. This revamped formula curtails the double counting of unjust gains in settlement assessments. Moreover, it introduces a fast-track process for cases where settlement amounts are less than 10 lakh, aiming for quicker resolutions while ensuring regulatory efficiency in handling securities issues.
After an eight-week slump, Indian equities experienced a robust rebound, highlighted by a notable rise in the BSE Sensex. This recovery was buoyed by declining crude oil prices, which eased from their recent peaks. While foreign portfolio investors remained in a selling mood, local institutional investors stepped in with strong buying activity.
Delhi protest: In New Delhi, traffic restrictions and heightened security measures have been implemented due to a planned protest. This demonstration is organized by the CJP, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Numerous key intersections in the city will experience diversions and restrictions, prompting police to maintain a heavy presence. Commuters are advised to avoid non-essential travel and to factor in additional time for their journeys.
The Congress party is not participating in the Cockroach Janata Party's agitation, choosing to conduct its own protests. Several allies from the INDIA bloc, however, support the CJP's demands and will join their agitation. Congress has planned a 'jan andolan' in Delhi for October 12, urging allies to participate. Rahul Gandhi is reaching out to students through events coinciding with the CJP's emergence.
A person recently posted an engaging video showcasing his unforgettable journey from Goa to Mumbai aboard the Duronto Express in First AC. Highlighting the delectable meals ranging from breakfast to dinner, he captured the breathtaking views along the Konkan Railway.
India's food industry is alerting to a potential supply shock projected for the year 2027. Experts indicate that a Super El Nino may disrupt crop production and elevate food inflation. Growing concerns arise over the impact on sugar and oilseed production, particularly in states with severe drought conditions. The livestock sector is also preparing for increased feed costs due to these challenges.
The proposed levy covers plastic waste, discarded tyres, electrical and electronic scrap, and used cooking oil. Under the framework, registered buyers will have to deduct TDS when purchasing from registered suppliers and pay GST under RCM on purchases from unregistered sellers, even when the latter fall below the GST registration threshold.
Supreme Court Justice Sheel Nagu recused himself from hearing the Punjab government's appeal against a high court order. The Punjab and Haryana High Court had directed a CBI probe into corruption allegations involving Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's office. Justice Dipankar Datta noted the current challenging circumstances facing the judiciary. The case will be reassigned to a different bench by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant.
EY has reported a data breach that exposed sensitive client information and prompted regulatory notifications in multiple jurisdictions. This incident has raised concerns among top professional services firms regarding the protection of client data. Experts emphasize the need for tighter controls amid increasing cyberattacks and the complexity of technology used by these firms. Most communications between firms and clients are conducted over email, which poses additional risks.
Selja, who had earlier written to Rawat to stop his parallel show, is learnt to have urged the former chief minister to cancel his independent yatra and join official Uttarakhand Congress campaigns, stressing that party unity is essential to defeating the BJP in the upcoming election. She is also learnt to have made it clear that being part of collective work is the norm for all senior Uttarakhand state Congress leaders. ETs calls to Seljas office evoked no response.
Portsmouth Technologies LLC executed a block deal selling 30 lakh shares of Anthem Biosciences on October 9. The shares were sold at Rs 833 each, totaling Rs 249.90 crore. Following this transaction, Portsmouth's estimated stake in the company would decrease significantly. Anthem Biosciences reported a decline in total income and profit after tax for the first quarter of FY27.
Poonawalla Fincorp reported a substantial increase in net profit for the second quarter, rising over fivefold. The company's net interest income and fee income grew significantly, contributing to the profit surge. New loan products accounted for a notable percentage of disbursements during this period, demonstrating the diversification of their offerings. Additionally, improvements in the gross non-performing asset ratio reflect better asset quality management.
Members of Parliament belonging to the opposition INDIA bloc on Friday began a march from the Parliament House towards Rashtrapati Bhavan to submit a memorandum to President Droupadi Murmu, raising concerns over the functioning of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Montana's National Weather Office has announced a winter weather advisory affecting Interstate 90 and nearby regions. Anticipated snowfall could reach 3 inches accompanied by wind gusts up to 35 mph. This advisory will be active from 6 p.m. Saturday until 6 p.m. Sunday local time. Motorists in western Montana should prepare for slippery conditions on various highways.
Newly reported documents have led to the reopening of the criminal investigation regarding Jane Doe's sexual assault allegations. She claims to have been drugged and assaulted by members of the Chi Phi fraternity. Investigators previously received differing versions of her account, affecting how the case was initially handled. The ongoing inquiry will examine the discrepancies in the evidence provided to prosecutors.
Several trains from Mumbai to New Delhi have been rescheduled or cancelled ahead of planned protests in the capital. The Central and Western Railways announced these changes due to expected traffic disruptions on October 10. Refunds will be provided for affected passengers, who voiced concerns over these abrupt cancellations. The protests aim to address allegations against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar regarding electoral roll tampering.
Weather Tomorrow: The India Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert predicting heavy rainfall and thunderstorms for several regions. Delhi-NCR is expected to have partly cloudy skies along with light rain and potential strong winds. In Haryana, isolated rainfall and thunderstorms are possible on Saturday, while Uttar Pradesh may experience scattered rainfall. Additionally, Punjab and Bihar are likely to see light rain or thundershowers throughout the day.
Donald Trump approval rating: Concerns about the economy and the war have driven Trump's public approval to record lows and have been weighing on support for his party ahead of the November 3 election that will determine control of Congress for the next two years.
This October, Xbox Game Pass subscribers are in for a treat with the launch of several exhilarating games, including 'Gears of War: E Day'. Fans can also look forward to 'Battlefield 6', arriving later this month. However, players should keep an eye on the clock, as some titles will leave the service by October 15, prompting potential purchases.
Willy Naruenartwanich was sentenced to six years in prison for his role in an arms procurement conspiracy. The conspiracy involved the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (IM) seeking to acquire weapons. Naruenartwanich acted as a key conspirator and middleman in the arms network. The case reflects the efforts made by the National Investigation Agency to combat international arms smuggling.
The Reserve Bank of India will raise the minimum daily cash reserve ratio requirement to 99% from 90%. This change will take effect from mid-October, specifically the fortnight starting October 16, 2026. Banks will be required to maintain this increased percentage without the previous operational flexibility. The move aims to reduce the current surplus liquidity within the banking system.
Over a week, law enforcement registered 27 FIRs against protesters targeting the Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar. The police utilized provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to enforce regulations and account for collective actions. Specific sections invoked included those addressing joint criminal liability, obstruction of public officials, and physical confrontation. Police established barricades and sealed roads around key protest locations to maintain order.
Poonawalla Fincorp reported a 407% year-on-year surge in Q2FY27 profit to Rs 375 crore, while net interest income rose 81%. Operating profit more than doubled, supported by business growth, improving asset quality and an expanded gold loan network.
Anand Rathi Wealth reported a 22% year-on-year rise in Q2 business profit to Rs 122 crore, with revenue increasing 16%. Assets under management reached Rs 1.08 lakh crore as quarterly net inflows hit a record Rs 4,186 crore.
Zerodha founder Nithin Kamath warned that small and microcap stocks account for a substantial share of Indias margin trading facility book. He highlighted liquidity risks during market downturns, when smaller stocks may face sharper selling pressure.
Essencore has partnered with Syrma SGS Technology to boost local manufacturing capabilities in India. The collaboration supports Essencore's strategic India expansion efforts and affirms its commitment to Make-in-India initiatives. Additionally, the companies aim to enhance engagement in the electronics and technology ecosystem within the country. Essencore introduced its consumer brand KLEVV, which focuses on high-performance memory and storage solutions.
GQG Partners entities sold 50.39 lakh Adani Power shares through on-market transactions, reducing their combined stake to 5.72% from 5.74%. The disclosure comes as the stock gains 27.05% in 2026 and the company expands into Bhutanese hydropower.
Tata Asset Management CEO Anand Vardarajan highlights how passive funds, SIFs and GIFT City are reshaping wealth management. He advocates combining active and passive strategies while monitoring global yields, inflation and valuations to build diversified portfolios.
The Indian equity markets saw a robust recovery as both the BSE Sensex and Nifty 50 registered remarkable gains. The Nifty 50 surged by 288.65 points, closing at 22,520.45, while the Sensex jumped 879.09 points. Notably, the Nifty IT index rose 3%, signaling a positive market sentiment. A total of 2,182 out of 3,684 stocks climbed higher, reflecting renewed investor interest in bargain opportunities.
Seven stocks from the BSE 1000 index hit fresh 52-week highs as the Sensex rallied 879 points. Cupid led the list with a 31% monthly gain, followed by Shreeji Shipping Global, Aditya Infotech and other stocks.
Jio Platforms has set a price band of Rs 1,065-1,119 for its upcoming IPO. The company plans to raise between Rs 28,755 crore and Rs 30,213 crore with the offer. Public subscription is scheduled to start on October 21, with shares potentially listing on October 28.
Nomura has cut PB Fintechs target price by 31% to Rs 1,100 after proposed IRDAI curbs on insurance website practices and commissions. The brokerage lowered earnings estimates, while alternative scenarios suggest fair values of Rs 1,335-1,366.
Nifty broke its eight-week losing streak, rising nearly 1.3% on Friday to close above 22,500 as IT, FMCG and auto stocks led a relief rally. However, persistent FII selling, elevated US bond yields, crude oil prices and the RBIs shift to calibrated tightening continue to cloud the market outlook.

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