The Economic Times

In today's dynamic environment, Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs) are key players in synchronizing workforce initiatives with broader organizational aspirations, tackling talent challenges, and facilitating transformational change. The ET HR Excellence Awards 2027 celebrates exemplary HR practices that foster organizational brilliance, underscoring the vital contributions of strategic HR leadership to enhance workplace culture and people management strategies.

Conservation efforts in Nevada have successfully removed invasive blue tilapia to protect the native Moapa dace fish. After targeted removal operations, Moapa dace have begun to recolonize areas where they were previously extinct. Habitat restoration included creating new streams to support the species' survival. Long-term recovery requires ongoing monitoring and preventing invasive species from re-entering ecosystems. These actions show that effective conservation goes beyond simply removing th

Is Tiger Shroff's BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine bulletproof? Check its safety features, including airbags, ABS, stability control and run-flat tyres, and how they differ from specialised armoured cars.

Aaron Sorkins latest film focuses on Facebook's past controversies and the implications of its business model. The story centers around whistleblower Frances Haugen and her allegations regarding Facebook's internal practices. Meta, formerly Facebook, is navigating ongoing concerns about safety and user engagement. The film, while offering a dramatic retelling, critiques the effectiveness of Metas strategies. This cinematic exploration aims to provoke discussions on corporate accountability in th

Fairfax Financial Holdings is preparing to acquire a majority stake in IDBI Bank in India. The Canadian investor's acquisition aims to enhance its presence in the growing Indian financial market. Fairfax plans to fund the transaction through various means, ensuring a stable financial position during the process. IDBI Bank has shown improved profitability since 2021, reflecting successful management changes.

Eight smallcap stocks have surged over 200% in FY27 so far as foreign institutional investors increased their shareholdings in the September 2026 quarter. Kabra Extrusiontechnik led the gains at 343%, followed by Modison at 333%, according to ACE Equity data.

UltraTech Cement Q2 Results: The cement maker reported a 21% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 1,494 crore in Q2 FY27, while revenue grew 19% to Rs 23,295 crore. However, profit fell 43% sequentially amid monsoon-related disruptions and the West Asia crisis, with margins also declining from the previous quarter.

Jio Platforms is making waves with its IPO, drawing in around Rs 2.5 lakh crore from institutional investors, reflecting remarkable enthusiasm in the market. With backing from renowned global asset managers and sovereign wealth funds, this Rs 30,200 crore offering launches on October 21, featuring a price band of Rs 1,065 to Rs 1,119 per share. The company aims to use most proceeds to clear existing debts, enhancing financial stability.

International travel entails various expenses that can incur foreign exchange markup charges, impacting overall costs. Understanding forex markup helps travelers identify significant savings by comparing credit card options before applying. A zero-forex card may reduce costs on eligible international transactions, particularly during prolonged trips abroad. Additionally, travelers should evaluate overall benefits such as rewards and insurance besides forex charges.

HFCL reported a 448% year-on-year jump in Q2FY27 net profit to Rs 394 crore, compared with Rs 71.92 crore a year ago. Revenue surged 144% to Rs 2,542 crore, while EBITDA rose 224% to Rs 658 crore. EBITDA margin expanded 640 basis points to 25.89%. The optical fibre and AI beneficiarys stock hit the 5% upper circuit at Rs 268.70 on the BSE and has gained nearly 300% so far this year.

ICICI Bank has outperformed HDFC Bank in 2026, supported by stronger loan growth, deposits and profitability. While ICICI commands a valuation premium, HDFCs 28% stock decline has created a potential recovery opportunity. Brokerages see scope for HDFCs margins to improve, but narrowing the growth and funding gap remains key.

Tech Mahindra shares fell 2.1% after a sharp post-results rally, as investors booked profits. Brokerages remain divided, with Nuvama projecting 25% earnings growth over two years, while Nomura maintains a Neutral rating amid a focus on future growth and margins.

PSU bank stocks surged up to 8% on Monday, led by Punjab National Bank after its Q2FY27 earnings beat estimates. In contrast, private lenders such as Axis Bank and HDFC Bank fell up to 5% despite reporting profit growth. The Nifty PSU Bank index gained over 2%, while its private-sector counterpart declined.

Jio Platforms Rs 30,213-crore IPO will open for subscription on October 21 and close on October 23, 2026. The issue comprises a fresh issue of 27 crore equity shares, with allotment expected on October 26 and listing tentatively scheduled for October 28 on the BSE and NSE.

Punjab National Bank shares rose sharply on Monday after the lender reported a 13% year-on-year rise in Q2FY27 net profit to Rs 5,532 crore. Stronger net interest income and improving asset quality prompted bullish brokerage calls, with Jefferies, Motilal Oswal and JM Financial setting target prices of Rs 140 apiece.

PC Jeweller shares rallied 26% in two sessions after Cupid promoter Aditya Kumar Halwasiya bought 5.10 crore shares worth Rs 73.60 crore. The jewellery maker recently repaid its dues to 14 consortium banks, achieving debt-free status ahead of schedule.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Monday that Washington is close to finalising a trade deal with India. He said the US considers various factors, including ongoing trade negotiations, while making decisions on national security waivers related to Russian oil and gas sanctions.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman says easy liquidity is allowing investors to exit Indian equities as the Nifty and Sensex struggle to deliver positive returns. Foreign investors have pulled out nearly $63.6 billion since October 2024, erasing nine years of inflows, amid rising US yields, a stronger dollar and AI-driven investment shifts.

Kross shares surged following strong Q2 FY27 results, with revenue rising 80% and net profit climbing 143% year-on-year. EBITDA more than doubled, while margins improved. Robust commercial vehicle demand, capacity expansion and operational efficiencies supported growth, alongside increased institutional shareholding and the stock reaching a fresh 52-week high.

Ixigo shares jumped after the travel platform reported a record Q2 profit of Rs 63.42 crore, partly boosted by the sale of its stake in Freshbus. Gross transaction value rose 22% year-on-year to Rs 5,304.47 crore, while revenue grew 13% to Rs 320.96 crore and contribution margin increased 14% to Rs 124.86 crore.

Indian sugar stocks dropped in early trading following the government's directive to cease sugar diversion for ethanol production. The decision impacts major sugar companies like Balrampur Chini Mills and Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, which experienced a decline between 2% and 6%. This directive aims to enhance domestic sugar availability amidst rising prices. The government's action follows concerns about potential production shortfalls due to insufficient rainfall.

The Indian stock market is rebounding, powered by robust investments in IT sectors and encouraging earnings reports. Analysts highlight five stocks as prime buying opportunities, projecting solid short-term gains. Indian Hotels, Lemon Tree, and Supreme Industries make the list. While technical indicators show strong demand, investors are cautioned about looming global inflation and geopolitical tensions.

The Indian stock market took a hit on Monday after a considerable rise the previous week. Both Sensex and Nifty struggled, with Axis Bank and HDFC Bank suffering significant losses. Nevertheless, firms like SBI and UltraTech Cement managed to post gains. The PSU Bank index rose, providing a stark contrast to the declining private banking sector.

Jio Platforms is preparing to unveil its initial public offering, enhancing its valuation significantly. Analysts foresee a potential reduction in the holding company discount for Reliance Industries post-IPO. While some experts believe the anticipated changes are already included in the stock's valuation, the true effect on RIL shares will hinge on Jio's profitability and future dividend plans.

Yes Bank shares rose after falling 17% over two sessions, following a 65% year-on-year jump in Q2 net profit to Rs 1,080 crore. However, the lender cautioned that the reported earnings exclude the potential impact of the Supreme Courts AT1 bond ruling.

HDFC Bank shares fell up to 2% after the lender reported a 4.6% year-on-year rise in Q2 FY27 net profit to Rs 19,510 crore. Jefferies, Motilal Oswal, Systematix and Emkay retained positive ratings, citing margin recovery potential and leadership transition.

Urban Company shares fell sharply on Monday after its Q2FY27 net loss more than tripled YoY to Rs 182 crore, driven by investments in InstaHelp. Revenue rose 41% year-on-year to Rs 537 crore. Motilal Oswal maintained a Neutral rating but cut its target price to Rs 165, citing profitability concerns and balanced risk-reward.

Foreign institutional investors have dramatically pulled back from Indian equities, reversing nearly nine years of consistent investment. A massive $63.6 billion in outflows occurred, particularly pronounced in 2026. Industries suffering the most include financial services, automobiles, and oil and gas. Although domestic investors have somewhat mitigated the foreign sell-off, the prospects for renewed foreign investments appear grim, with rising bond yields and energy costs dampening interest.

Bonfiglioli Transmissions Rs 2,534-crore IPO entered its final day of bidding on October 19, with the grey market premium (GMP) easing to 22% from 30% earlier, indicating moderating expectations for listing gains. The IPO is entirely an offer for sale (OFS) of 4.32 crore shares, meaning the company will not receive any proceeds from the issue.

Sahajanand Medical Technologies IPO enters its final bidding day with 82% subscription on Day 2 and a 7% grey market premium. The Rs 475.48 crore offer is entirely an offer for sale. Investors will monitor subscription trends, listing expectations and strong FY26 profit growth before the shares debut.

Axis Bank reported a 38% year-on-year rise in standalone net profit to Rs 7,003 crore in Q2 FY27, while net interest income rose 12%. Jefferies retained its Buy rating, while Centrum Broking and Dolat Capital lowered their target prices.

IDBI Bank reported a 39% YoY decline in Q2 FY27 net profit, partly due to a one-off gain in the previous year. Despite this, underlying profitability, margins, asset quality, deposits and advances showed improvement. Meanwhile, Fairfax Financials proposed 60.72% stake acquisition marks a major milestone in the banks privatisation.

Tonbo Imaging Indias IPO closes amid strong investor demand, with 7.78 times subscription by Day 2 and a grey market premium of 74%. The Rs 852.18 crore issue is entirely an offer for sale. Investors will track allotment, listing expectations and the defence technology companys declining FY26 financial performance.

A slideshow exploring four NSE F&O stocks that witnessed a sharp increase in futures open interest on October 16, highlighting changing market participation and notable shifts in derivatives activity.

The return of a stable settlement system in India's equity-derivatives market could signal a promising recovery. Following the tumultuous closure auction process introduced in August, regulators are aiming to restore order. Market players are optimistic that this newfound clarity will not only enhance trader confidence but also boost derivatives trading volumes over time.

HBL Engineering, SPR Auto Technologies and HFCL featured in StockEdges VWAP scan on October 16, with closing prices more than 2% above their volume-weighted average prices.

HBL Engineering, Authum Investment & Infrastructure, SPR Auto Technologies and Thangamayil Jewellery featured in StockEdges RSI Trending Up scan on October 16.