Latest Stock Market News

Federal Bank to acquire 4% stake in Ageas Federal Life Insurance. The acquisition cost is around Rs 97.4 crore for 3.2 crore shares.

Wall Street stocks closed higher, fueled by Apple s growth and despite the dip in Nvidia shares. Investors closely watched upcoming trade policy announcements by the Trump administration. The S&P 500 slightly increased, driven by gains in communication services and consumer discretionary sectors. Tesla shares also surged, while consumer confidence fell to its lowest level since February 2021.

Gold prices remain steady ahead of U.S. President Trump s potential reciprocal tariffs, raising inflation and economic growth concerns. Gold has surged 15% this year, hitting a peak of $3,057.21 in March. U.S. consumer confidence is at a four-year low, and attention is on upcoming Federal Reserve officials speeches and U.S. economic data.

Oil prices increased in early Asia trade due to concerns about tighter supplies after US President Trump threatened tariffs on countries importing oil from Venezuela. Additionally, US crude inventories fell significantly more than expected, further supporting the climb in oil prices.

The dollar experienced a slight dip as weak U.S. confidence data and concerns over the impact of potential new tariffs on autos, chips, and pharmaceuticals on U.S. growth were noted. Market focus shifts to next week when President Trump is expected to detail these tariffs, potentially causing further market fluctuations.

Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda stated that the central bank will keep raising interest rates if economic conditions and inflation meet expectations. He mentioned that current high inflation in Japan is temporary due to factors such as import costs and food prices. Ueda expects underlying inflation to converge toward the 2% target with improved wages and economic conditions.

U.S. consumer confidence has declined sharply, pointing to possible economic difficulties. Despite this, tech stocks led Wall Street indices to end higher. Analysts predict record-high profits, contrasting with gloomy economic forecasts. Global markets showed mixed reactions, with gains in some sectors and declines in others, influenced by trade tensions and upcoming fiscal updates.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi s administration is addressing a $346 billion debt through longer-dated sovereign bonds with a growing influence of households investing in insurers. This shift has led to a focus on long-term debt sales and substantial participation by insurance sectors, supporting the nation s refinancing strategies.

Identixweb s Rs 17 crore SME IPO will open for subscription from March 26 to 28, with shares priced between Rs 51-54 each. The funds raised will be used for marketing, research, product development, and corporate purposes. Share allotment will be finalized on April 1, and listing is expected on April 3.