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Gold and silver futures opened strongly on Monday, buoyed by a weakening dollar, anticipated US Federal Reserve rate cuts, and a depreciating rupee. Silver futures reached a new peak, with analysts expecting continued strong momentum driven by global economic factors and currency fluctuations.

India's economy is reportedly growing at an impressive 8.2%, yet the IMF has assigned its national accounts a 'C' grade due to methodological weaknesses. This rating highlights concerns about outdated base years, price deflators, and data granularity, sparking a debate over the accuracy of the reported growth figures.

State Bank of India is experiencing a strong year, with shares up nearly 25% in 2025, outperforming private peers. This growth is fueled by a favorable earnings outlook, improving asset quality, and steady credit growth expectations. Analysts remain bullish, citing SBI's scale, solid fundamentals, and potential for further upside.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan to the Rajya Sabha on the first day of Winter Session, highlighting his dedication to social service and his connection with tribal communities in Jharkhand. PM Modi assured the House's cooperation, emphasizing decorum and policy over slogans, while also urging the opposition to move past recent election defeats.

New investors often err by picking too many flashy, high-return funds. Experts advise starting with one diversified, stable fund like a flexi-cap or index fund. This approach, focusing on consistency over chasing trends, builds wealth and reduces stress over the long term, proving that simplicity often triumphs over complexity in investing.

The Indian rupee opened at 89.45 against the US dollar, trading in a narrow range as equity gains were countered by rising crude oil prices and foreign fund outflows. Analysts suggest the rupee could strengthen towards 88.90 if India-US trade relations improve, with strong support at 88.80-89.00.

Women possess strong financial management skills but are often sidelined in critical decisions, limiting their freedom. This article provides a roadmap for women to actively participate in financial discussions, master money management basics, and leverage joint property ownership and women-specific financial products to achieve true financial independence and control their destiny.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 'Mann Ki Baat' broadcast on Sunday, expressed his special affection for Uttarakhand and highlighted the immense potential of winter tourism, adventure sports, and wedding destinations in the state, said Uttarakhand CMO.

Nelson Mandela, a transformative leader, dedicated his life to fighting apartheid and promoting equality. After 27 years in prison, he emerged with a message of forgiveness and unity, becoming South Africa's first Black president. His philosophy, reflected in his quote, emphasises that life's significance is measured by the positive difference made in others' lives, urging intentional action and service.

Banks in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh were closed on Monday for State Inauguration Day and Indigenous Faith Day, respectively. These state-specific holidays mark significant cultural and historical events. Banks across other Indian states operated as usual, with further closures anticipated throughout December for various regional and religious observances.

Stock market recommendations: Nifty and Bank Nifty hit record highs, driven by leadership sectors, though broader market participation remains selective. SBI Securities recommends 360 ONE WAM and Mahindra & Mahindra, citing strong technical indicators and potential for further upside in both stocks.

Stock market today: Nifty50 and BSE Sensex, the Indian equity benchmark indices, opened in green on Monday on the back of strong domestic fundamentals and better-than-expected GDP growth numbers.

Asian markets opened steady as optimism for a US interest rate cut boosted risk appetite heading into December 2025. The Japanese yen strengthened on expectations of a policy shift from the Bank of Japan. Investors are closely watching upcoming US economic data and Federal Reserve commentary for further market direction.

Many fear investing due to market volatility and potential losses. However, data shows long-term equity investments typically reward patience, while inaction risks losing purchasing power to inflation. Protecting yourself with an emergency fund and insurance, then starting small with a diversified fund, helps manage fear and build wealth over time through consistent, disciplined behaviour.

Stock market recommendations: Motilal Oswal Financial Services has identified Reliance Industries and HCL Tech as top stock picks for the week of December 1, 2025. RIL's strong performance in Retail and RJio, coupled with O2C earnings improvement, drives growth expectations. HCL Tech's robust deal wins and early traction in AI solutions support its upgraded services growth guidance.

Jefferies initiated coverage on Lenskart with a buy rating, citing strong growth potential and an efficient omni-channel model. Nomura maintained a buy on M&M following its new electric SUV launch. Kotak upgraded JSW Infrastructure to reduce, while UBS has a buy on GAIL despite a disappointing tariff hike.

Sebi's new regulation allows mutual fund investors to gift units, including statement of account holdings, eliminating the need for redemption and triggering capital gains tax. This reform facilitates tax savings for individuals by transferring units to family members with lower taxable income, making gifting and inheritance processes significantly easier and more tax-efficient.

A Karnataka High Court division bench overturned a single bench order in the Yezdi trademark dispute. The court ruled that Ideal Jawa (India) Ltd lost its trademark rights due to non-use and non-renewal since 1996. This decision allows Classic Legends and Boman R Irani to use the Yezdi mark.

Foreign investors resumed selling Indian equities in November, withdrawing Rs 3,765 crore after a brief pause in October. This reversal followed a significant inflow in October, breaking a three-month streak of outflows. Market movements this week will be influenced by upcoming macroeconomic data, global trends, and the RBI's interest rate decision.

Elon Musk stated Starlink is designed for rural areas and disaster recovery, not dense cities, due to physics limitations. He explained satellite beams are like flashlights, supporting limited users, making urban coverage impractical. Musk highlighted Starlink's role in serving underserved regions and maintaining connectivity when terrestrial infrastructure fails.

The government is set to revise highway contract conditions to attract more private investment by de-risking projects. New provisions include revenue support and extended tolling periods for traffic shortfalls, with buyback options for projects exceeding capacity. Lenders' exposure will be safeguarded through debt repayment and concessionaire substitution in case of contract termination.

India's Q2 GDP surged to an eight-quarter high of 8.2%, driven by lower prices rather than increased volume. Despite this strong growth, economists believe rate cuts remain possible due to subdued inflation and a nuanced economic picture. The RBI faces a complex decision ahead of its December policy meeting.

Parliament's winter session faces disruption as opposition demands a debate on the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, alleging irregularities. Despite the government's non-committal stance, parties are united, threatening to stall proceedings if their concerns aren't addressed. Other issues like national security and air pollution were also raised.

The Indian government will back the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) in a Supreme Court battle against Delhi and Mumbai airport operators. The case concerns a Rs 50,000-crore claim for hypothetical regulatory asset base, which could lead to significant hikes in passenger charges if awarded to the operators.

The BJP has demanded an account of alleged loot by its leaders in the National Herald case from the Congress. This comes after Delhi Police filed an FIR against Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, and others on criminal charges. The BJP stated the case predates the current government and involves the acquisition of significant assets for a nominal sum.

The Congress party has strongly refuted the National Herald case, labeling it a politically motivated attempt by the Prime Minister and Home Minister to intimidate them. They argue the fresh FIR aims to fabricate a money laundering charge where no financial transactions or property transfers occurred, questioning the basis of the PMLA offense.

Prime Minister Modi lauded India's youth and the cultural bond forged by the Tamil Sangamam, seeing them as vital to a 'Viksit Bharat'. He highlighted recent achievements in space, defence, farming, and sports, attributing them to the energy of young Indians and the nation's deep roots. The PM also celebrated cultural milestones and encouraged participation in the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.

A 41-year-old report by the Tribhuvan Prasad Tewary Commission, recently made public by the Assam government, reveals that successive administrations allowed the state's land and identity crisis to worsen. The report, which investigated the 1983 Nellie massacre, identified illegal immigration and land disputes as key drivers of violence, not just communal clashes.

New government orders mandate communication apps like WhatsApp and Telegram to enforce stricter login protocols. Users will face automatic logouts from desktop versions every six hours, requiring QR code re-authentication. Smartphone access will also be restricted to the original SIM card used for registration, aiming to curb cyber fraud and enhance security.

The Election Commission has extended the SIR Phase 2 timeline by a week across 12 states and UTs to ensure electoral roll transparency. This move follows reports of alleged malpractices, allowing booth level officers more time to share elector lists with political parties. The extended period aims to prevent errors and build trust before the final roll publication.

Indian airlines IndiGo, Air India, and Air India Express successfully reverted flight-control software on 323 Airbus A320 jets to a safer 2022 version. This rapid rollback averted widespread groundings after Airbus identified a potential loss of control issue during intense solar storms. Carriers experienced minimal disruption, with only minor cancellations and delays.

The government plans to introduce a new cess on tobacco and pan masala products. This move aims to prevent price drops after the GST compensation cess is phased out, ensuring these 'sin goods' remain costly. The proposed health and security cess will be implemented once notified, potentially before the compensation cess expires in March 2026.

Important days in December 2025: December marks a vibrant end to the year in India with national commemorations like Vijay Diwas and Kisan Diwas, alongside widespread Christmas celebrations. Regional festivals and tribal events highlight the nation's rich diversity. Globally, the month emphasizes crucial awareness campaigns on health, human rights, and environmental sustainability, fostering a spirit of collective responsibility.

Indian stock markets will observe a holiday on Thursday, December 25, for Christmas, with trading resuming on Friday, December 26. This marks the only major scheduled market closure in December, making it a relatively quiet month for trading. The last trading session in November concluded flat for both the BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty.

Union minister Chirag Paswan claimed several opposition MLAs are in touch with the NDA, citing growing disenchantment with the opposition's constructive inaction. This comes amid speculation about Congress MLAs switching allegiances after the NDA's landslide victory in the Bihar assembly polls.

Parliament's Winter Session kicks off with a robust economic agenda, featuring nine key bills. Reforms include a 100% FDI cap for insurance, new taxation for tobacco and pan masala, and a consolidated Securities Markets Code. The session also aims to decriminalize minor offenses and update corporate laws, promising significant legislative action.

Sri Lanka is facing a severe crisis as Cyclone Ditwah has caused devastating floods and landslides, resulting in at least 334 deaths and nearly 400 people missing. Over a million individuals are affected, with low-lying areas in Colombo still inundated. India has dispatched an additional 10 tons of disaster response aid, including a medical team, to assist the nation.

Elon Musk discussed US trade policies and the H-1B visa system with Nikhil Kamath, expressing his opposition to aggressive tariffs and advocating for free trade. Musk also boldly predicted that advancements in AI and robotics will make working optional within 10-15 years, leading to a world of near-limitless abundance.

Despite Operation Sindoor destroying several terrorist launching pads across the LoC, the BSF reports that some remain active, with Pakistan attempting to infiltrate terrorists ahead of winter. These shifting launchpads, now located in depth areas away from the border, are reportedly used for pushing terrorists into India, with groups now mixed.

Two Booth Level Officers died in Uttar Pradesh amid the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of poll rolls. Sarvesh Singh died by suicide, citing work pressure. Shobharani died of cardiac arrest after working late. The Election Commission has extended the revision schedule by one week. These incidents highlight the strain on BLOs across several states.

British Airways is significantly boosting its India operations, adding a third daily flight to Delhi next year. Citing incredible potential and strong outbound travel demand, the airline sees India as its second-largest market. This expansion includes local hiring and a robust contact center, underscoring a commitment to the growing Indian aviation sector.

A teenage girl in Nanded performed symbolic wedding rituals with her murdered boyfriend's body after her father and brothers were arrested for his killing over their inter-caste relationship. The girl, Aanchal, stated her family opposed their union due to caste differences and vowed to live with her deceased lover's mother.