Global markets brace for a busy week. Investors will closely watch the United States jobs report. The European Central Bank is expected to decide on interest rates. Major oil producers will discuss output. Trade tensions and tariff rulings add uncertainty. Emerging Asian economies' inflation data will be released. Australia will share its first-quarter growth data.
US markets are nearing record highs, influenced by economic data and trade policies. Tax and spending legislation are under consideration. Donald Trump plans to negotiate the tax bill. The Senate will review the bill passed by the House. Trade war developments continue to impact global markets. Investors await the US employment report.
The Indian rupee experienced a decline in May, becoming the worst-performing Asian currency due to tariff uncertainties, border tensions, and expectations of monetary easing. The rupee weakened by 1.27%, closing at 85.57/$1. While lower inflation and growth prospects offered some support, global economic factors and potential shifts in US monetary policy could further weaken the currency.
Several Indian travel and hospitality companies are planning initial public offerings. Oyo, Pride Hotels Group, and LaRiSa Hotels & Resorts are among them. Lemon Tree Hotels will list Fleur Hotels in two years. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, concluded its IPO in May. Prestige Hospitality and Travel Food Services have also initiated IPO processes.
Vodafone Idea's board has approved raising up to 20,000 crore despite a widened net loss of 7,166 crore and continued subscriber losses. The company aims to fund its 4G and 5G expansion to curb user churn, while auditors caution about its ability to meet liabilities. Despite challenges, Vi reports improved ARPU and reduced subscriber loss pace.
The finance ministry has suggested the RBI to exempt small borrowers seeking loans below Rs 2 lakh from its draft directions on gold collateral lending, aiming for quicker disbursal. They also proposed implementing the rules from January 1, 2026, citing the need for field-level adjustments. This came after reviewing the RBI's draft guidelines and considering stakeholder concerns.
