Standard Chartered has halved its bitcoin price forecasts for 2025 and 2026, citing weaker demand and a shift toward ETF-driven buying. Analyst Geoff Kendrick now sees slower long-term growth, delaying his $500,000 target to 2030 amid deteriorating crypto sentiment.
The Reserve Bank of India is urging microfinance companies to diversify their lending beyond traditional group-based loans. Officials recommend exploring asset classes like inventory and capital asset financing to enhance stability and economic contribution. This push aims to move NBFC-MFIs from single-product offerings to comprehensive micro-enterprise finance solutions.
In a recent note, domestic brokerage firm Kotak Securities has projected a bull case target of 32,032 for the Nifty 50 index by December 2026, suggesting meaningful upside potential from current levels, highlighting a preference for BFSI, and IT sectors, among others.
Indian markets are struggling to maintain gains despite positive domestic news. Global factors and foreign selling are creating caution. Short-term traders are advised to reduce leverage and hedge portfolios. Long-term investors can find opportunities in specific sectors like metals. Stocks like Vedanta and Motherson are highlighted for potential.
Investors are now prioritizing profitability and competitive advantages in India's digital sector, moving beyond just tech-enabled listings. Parag Thakkar highlights Lenskart for its profitability and market potential, and expresses optimism for Tata Capital due to its growth and brand.
While the Southeast Asian nation opened its economy to U.S. multinationals and technology after Washington lifted its embargo in the 1990s, it stayed cautious over China, after their 1979 war and disputes over South China Sea boundaries. Now Beijing's influence is rising and U.S. ties are strained by tariffs.
