Latest Stock Market News

IGL shares: Indraprastha Gas Ltd (IGL) has formed a joint venture with Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Ltd to set up a solar power project in Rajasthan, marking its entry into the renewable energy sector.

India s current account balance shifted to a deficit of $2.4 billion in the June quarter, equivalent to 0.2% of GDP, contrasting with the previous quarter s surplus. This shift was influenced by a higher merchandise trade deficit and increased net outgo on the primary income account. Despite the deficit, it narrowed year-on-year from $8.6 billion.

Former RBI Deputy Governor Michael Patra urges Corporate India to increase investments to sustain the nation s 8% growth trajectory. He highlighted that while India s GDP surged by 7.8% in Q1 FY26, investment is crucial for continued capital accumulation. Government efforts to boost consumption through GST reforms and income tax reductions are vital in the current economic climate.

Insurance companies are increasingly competing with banks by offering secured personal loans to policyholders, totaling ₹1.4 lakh crore, comparable to bank loans against fixed deposits. These short-term loans, with rates from 8.50% to 10.5%, allow policyholders to access funds without surrendering their policies.

Ajay Seth has taken over as chairman of the IRDAI, filling a five-month vacancy. His appointment comes as the insurance sector faces challenges like slowing growth, health insurance disputes, and mis-selling concerns. Seth s extensive experience in economic policy and regulatory reforms will be crucial as he addresses these issues and oversees upcoming reforms, including amendments to the Insurance Act.

Banks are grappling with a surge in fraud linked to deposit accounts, surpassing loan accounts in risk. The rise of mule accounts used for money laundering has prompted stricter KYC processes and enhanced transaction monitoring. The RBI s MuleHunter.AI initiative and increased staff training aim to combat this growing threat, as banks balance customer acquisition with fraud prevention.

Indian equities rebounded strongly on Monday, fueled by encouraging GDP data after a three-day losing streak. The NSE Nifty closed up 0.8% and the BSE Sensex rose 0.7%. However, concerns remain about potential US tariffs, a weaker rupee, and modest earnings growth, which could limit further market gains. Foreign investors continued selling, while domestic investors provided support.

Mumbai stock market is set for a change. Derivative contracts will now expire on different days. National Stock Exchange contracts move to Tuesdays. Bombay Stock Exchange contracts will expire on Thursdays. This shift follows regulator Securities and Exchange Board s directive. Traders anticipate increased activity earlier in the week. The change aims to reduce market volatility.

Emerging-market equities experienced a rally, driven by AI-related stocks in Hong Kong and China, following Alibaba s report of surging AI revenue. Alibaba s shares jumped significantly, boosting the MSCI EM Index. Meanwhile, the Indonesian rupiah saw the largest gain against the dollar in Asia as Bank Indonesia intervened to stabilize the currency amid political concerns.

Mark Mobius believes India is still a strong market. He says US tariffs will impact some Indian exports. However, Indian entrepreneurs are finding ways to navigate these challenges. Mobius expects foreign investors to return to India in a few months. The Indian government s efforts to reduce bureaucracy will also help manufacturers.