India's economic growth is shifting focus from consumption to manufacturing and investment. Structural reforms have boosted consumption selectively. The next phase requires a holistic approach to manufacturing, encouraging entrepreneurship in less developed regions. Attracting domestic and foreign capital through tax reforms is crucial. Income growth driven by manufacturing and exports will sustainably revive consumption.
Sun Pharma shares rose sharply on Sunday after the company reported a 16% YoY rise in Q3 net profit to Rs 3,369 crore, supported by strong India business and improved margins. The firm also declared an interim dividend of Rs 11 per share, further boosting sentiment despite cautious institutional activity.
The Defence Secretary has indicated a potential 20% increase in the FY27 defence budget to maintain operational readiness and strengthen self-reliance amid ongoing global tensions.
Metal stocks tumbled on Budget Sunday as gold, silver and copper prices slumped, dragging Hindustan Copper down 19% and knocking the Nifty Metal index lower. The sell-off followed a sharp correction in commodities triggered by a stronger dollar and market jitters after Donald Trump named Kevin Warsh as his pick for the next US Federal Reserve chair.
As India braces for its Union Budget, market participants are keenly observing policy measures to curb capital outflows and boost investor confidence. Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO Radhika Gupta expressed caution, highlighting global uncertainties and tariff threats. She anticipates a focus on capital expenditure in defence, infrastructure, and manufacturing, alongside job creation and technology sectors.
IFCI shares may draw attention in the special Budget session after SEBI granted clearance for NSEs long-awaited IPO. IFCI holds indirect exposure through its majority stake in SHCIL, which owns shares in NSE, making the stock sensitive to developments around the exchanges proposed listing and investor sentiment closely.
Investors are watching the Union Budget for fiscal consolidation and growth spending. Analysts recommend buying quality stocks on dips, especially in infrastructure, defence, power, and housing. Key themes include sustained public capex, targeted support for rural demand, and thrust on renewables. Companies in these sectors are expected to benefit from government initiatives and policy continuity.
Equity mutual funds have shown strong performance since the last budget on February 1, 2025. Approximately 16 funds delivered over 20% returns. Sectoral and thematic funds, including international, energy, and banking sectors, led the gains. Nippon India Taiwan Equity Fund topped the list with a 61.40% return.
St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem stated that the US central bank should not cut interest rates further unless the job market weakens or inflation drops. He believes the current policy rate is neutral, with the economy poised for above-trend growth.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi highlighted export benefits from a weaker yen, contrasting with Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama's intervention threats. While Takaichi sees opportunities for industries like food and automobiles, the yen's decline fuels inflation and prompts central bank rate hike signals. Investor concerns over Japan's finances are evident as bond yields hit record highs.
