Ashok Leyland Share Price in Focus as Promoter Entity Pledges a 30% Stake

Ashok Leyland share price experienced a decline of up to 4% in early trading. This was in response to two significant news items. These developments emerged after the market closed on Wednesday.

Promoter Hinduja Automotive Pledges Stake

One of Ashok Leyland’s promoters, Hinduja Automotive Ltd., made an announcement. In an exchange filing on Wednesday evening, they disclosed a pledge to sell 30% stake in the company.

Based on Ashok Leyland’s current market price, this pledged stake is substantial. It is valued at over ₹6,400 crore. As of December 31 of the previous year, Hinduja Automotive held a significant stake. Their holding amounted to 35% of the company.

Switch Mobility to Shut Down UK Operations

In addition to the promoter stake pledge, the company made another announcement. Ashok Leyland will be shutting down operations. This involves its EV arm, that is, Switch Mobility’s manufacturing and assembly unit. The affected unit is located in the UK. The company cited several reasons for this decision, such as economic uncertainties and slow EV adoption in Europe.

Company Denies Interest in SML Isuzu Stake

On Wednesday, shares of Ashok Leyland had closed higher. They gained 2.1% after denying reports of their plans to acquire the promoter stake of SML Isuzu. The company refuted claims that it was not interested.

As of noon, Ashok Leyland share price was down 0.67% and was trading at ₹213.53.

Financials of Ashok Leyland

Over the last three years, Ashok Leyland has demonstrated a 117.90% profit growth. Its revenue has also risen by 35.85% during the same period. The company has consistently maintained a healthy Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) of 21.57% over the past three years. This indicates efficient capital utilisation.

The company has an Interest Coverage Ratio of 16.20. It has reported a Cash Conversion Cycle of -21.27 days during December’s quarterly results. The company also benefits from a high degree of Operating Leverage, averaging 11.75.

Conclusion

Ashok Leyland’s stock fell due to promoter stake pledge and the UK unit closure. Investors see the UK decision as a positive step for reducing losses.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Mid-Day Top Gainers and Losers on March 27, 2025: MBL Infrastructure and Natural Capsules Led Gainers

On March 27, 2025, as of 12:06 PM, the BSE Sensex was up 0.39% at 77,592.75, while the Nifty 50 was up 0.41% at 23,583.15. The mid-day top gainers and losers for the day are:

Mid-Day Top Gainers 

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
MBLINFRA 34.5 41.4 34.46 41.4 20
NATCAPSUQ 168.05 199 168.05 188.41 13.09
GPTINFRA 107.36 126.01 105 121.05 12.74
RUCHINFRA 7.89 8.91 7.8 8.36 12.52
BFUTILITIE 641 735.5 635 726.5 12.5

MBL Infrastructure Limited (MBLINFRA)

The stock saw a significant surge, rising by 20% to reach its high of ₹41.4, up from an opening price of ₹34.5.

Natural Capsules Limited (NATCAPSUQ)

The stock gained 13.09%, reaching ₹188.41, after opening at ₹168.05 and hitting a high of ₹199.

GPT Infraprojects Limited (GPTINFRA)

GPT Infraprojects rose by 12.74%, with the price reaching ₹121.05, up from an opening of ₹107.36.

Ruchi Infrastructure Limited (RUCHINFRA)

The stock increased by 12.52%, reaching ₹8.36 after opening at ₹7.89 and peaking at ₹8.91.

BF Utilities Limited (BFUTILITIE)

BF Utilities saw a 12.5% gain, with the stock hitting ₹726.5, up from the opening price of ₹641, and a high of ₹735.5.

Mid-Day Top Losers

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
IRIS-RE 5.1 8 4.77 6.5 -18.34
NDLVENTURE 61.18 63.58 52.8 53 -13.37
KESORAMIND 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42 -10.16
SMLT 113.99 113.99 100.51 101.5 -8.1
PEARLPOLY 29 29.04 26.61 26.8 -7.65

Iris Clothings Limited-RE (IRIS-RE) 

The stock dropped by 18.34%, falling to ₹6.5 from an opening price of ₹5.1, after hitting a high of ₹8 and a low of ₹4.77.

NDL Ventures Limited (NDLVENTURE)

The stock decreased by 13.37%, trading at ₹53 after opening at ₹61.18, with a high of ₹63.58 and a low of ₹52.8.

Kesoram Industries Limited (KESORAMIND)

The stock remained flat at ₹4.42, with no price movement throughout the session, marking a 10.16% decline.

SML Isuzu Limited (SMLT)

The stock fell by 8.1%, reaching ₹101.5, down from an opening price of ₹113.99, with the price touching a low of ₹100.51.

Pearl Polyurethane Limited (PEARLPOLY)

The stock declined by 7.65%, dropping to ₹26.8, after opening at ₹29 and reaching a high of ₹29.04 and a low of ₹26.61.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

KKR Expected to Sell Stake in JB Chemicals: Check Key Details Here!

JB Chemicals share price will be in focus today. This follows news of global private equity firm KKR to sell its stake of 10.2% from JB Chemicals. The sale is worth US$300 million. It will be completed through a block deal via KKR’s affiliate Tau Investment Holdings.

Details of KKR’s Block Deal

The floor price for the block deal is ₹1,625 per share. This is a discount of nearly 5%. It is against the previous close of ₹1,703.40 on Wednesday. The base offer includes 1.06 crore equity shares. This represents a 6.8% stake. It is worth ₹1,805.60 crore.

There is also a greenshoe option of 0.53 crore shares. This is a 3.4% stake. It is valued at ₹902.80 crore.

KKR’s Investment in JB Chemicals

Tau Investment Holdings held a 53.66% stake in JB Chemical & Pharma. This was as of December 31, 2024.

In 2020, KKR had acquired a 54% stake in JB Chemicals. The deal was worth ₹3,109 crore. The acquisition price was ₹745 per share. This was followed by a 1:1 stock split in September 2023. The stock split resulted in a face value of ₹1. Since then, KKR has generated returns of over 335%.

Merchant Bankers for the Transaction

IIFL Capital Services is a book running lead manager. Jefferies India is also a lead manager. Kotak Securities and Spark Institutional Equities are also involved. The total market capitalisation of the company was over ₹26,500 crore on Wednesday. The stock has gained more than 13% in the last 2 weeks.

KKR’s Previous Attempts to Exit

KKR has considered selling its controlling stake in JB for the past year. It has held discussions with strategic suitors, including private equity players. KKR intended to sell its entire stake in JB Chemicals and Pharma in 2025. However, the deal could not be finalised. This was due to disagreements on the company’s valuation.

JB Chemicals’ Financial Performance

JB Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals reported a 21.64% year-on-year in net profits. This was in the December 2024 quarter. Revenue from operations also increased by 14% year-on-year to ₹963.4 crore. EBITDA was up by 14.1%. It reached ₹254.5 crore. The EBITDA margin was 26.4% for the quarter.

Conclusion

KKR is likely to sell a significant stake in JB Chemicals. The block deal is expected to be worth around US$300 million. This move comes after KKR’s successful investment in the company. The sale could influence the stock’s performance in the near term.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Income Tax 2025: Key Deadlines to Meet Before March 31, 2025!

Taxpayers need to be aware of important upcoming deadlines before March 31, 2025. These relate to income tax filings and investments. Missing these deadlines can have adverse financial implications.

Tax Deadline 1: Filing Updated Income Tax Return (ITR-U)

Taxpayers must file their updated ITR for FY 2022-23. The assessment year is 2023-24. The deadline is March 31, 2025. Filing before this date has a 25% additional tax. This is on the undisclosed income. Delaying beyond March 31 increases this to 50%. Interest will also be charged.

The government plans to extend the ITR-U filing period. It will be 4 years starting April 2025. However, higher penalty taxes will apply then.

Tax Deadline 2: Tax-Saving Investments

Those using the old tax regime need to complete tax-saving investments. This is under Sections 80C, 80D, and 80G. The deadline is March 31. This will allow you to claim deductions for FY 2024-25. Eligible options include ELSS funds. PPF and NSC are also included. Life insurance premiums qualify. Health insurance is another option.

Tax Deadline 3: Foreign Income Statement

Taxpayers claiming foreign tax credit must submit Form 67 before March 31, 2025. This applies to tax deducted or paid on foreign income. The income is for FY 2022-23. The credit is available only if the return is filed on time. This is as specified under sections 139(1) or 139(4).

Conclusion

Taxpayers should note the March 31 deadline. This is for updated ITR filing and tax-saving investments. Submitting Form 67 for foreign income credit also has this deadline. Missing these can lead to penalties or loss of benefits.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Parliament Approves The Banking Laws Amendment Bill

Parliament has approved the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill. This will allow account holders to have up to 4 nominees. The Rajya Sabha gave its approval on Wednesday.

Objectives of the Amended Legislation

The Bill seeks to strengthen governance in India’s banking sector. It also aims to improve convenience for consumers. The amended bill will enable depositors the option to choose successive or simultaneous nominations. However, locker holders can only have successive nominations.

Protection of Investor Interests in the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill

The Bill also enables the transfer of unclaimed dividends and shares. Interest or redemption of bonds will also be transferred. These will go to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF). Individuals can claim transfers or refunds from this fund. They will go to the unpaid dividend account of the corresponding new bank. This will safeguard investor’s interests..

Redefining “Substantial Interest” in the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill

Another change involves a review of “substantial interest”. Moreover, the threshold for a shareholding of substantial interest has been increased. It has risen from ₹5 lakh to ₹2 crore. This reflects the present value. The previous limit was set in 1968.

Government Action Against Willful Defaulters

The Finance Minister has stated that the government is committed to taking stringent action against wilful defaulters. In the 5 years leading up to January 29, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate has handled around 912 cases of bank fraud. This includes cases involving wilful default. In these cases, approximately ₹44,204 crore of proceeds of crime were attached, seized, or frozen.

In 8 cases, assets amounting to ₹22,276 crore were restituted. This belonged to banks, legitimate claimants, and victims of money laundering.

Changes for Cooperative Banks in the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill

With the Bill’s approval, the tenure of directors in cooperative banks can be extended. This excludes the chairman and the company’s whole-time director. It can go from 8 years to 10 years. This aligns with the Constitution (Ninety-Seventh Amendment) Act, 2011.

Once the amendment takes effect, directors of central cooperative banks will have more flexibility. They will be able to serve on the board of a state cooperative bank.

Freedom in Auditor Remuneration and Reporting Dates

The amendment also gives banks greater freedom. They can now decide the remuneration for statutory auditors. Additionally, the Bill redefines reporting dates for banks. For regulatory compliance, the dates are now the 15th and the last day of each month. Previously, it was the second and fourth Fridays.

Profitability of Public Sector Banks

Sitharaman informed lawmakers about the profitability of public sector banks. They posted their highest ever profit in the last fiscal year. The profit was about ₹1.41 lakh crore. She expressed confidence that profitability would increase further in 2025-26.

Conclusion

Parliament’s approval of the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill brings significant changes. It enhances convenience for account holders and strengthens investor protection. The bill also addresses governance issues in the banking sector.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

HAL Share Price In Focus As GE Delivers Key Engine for Tejas Fighter Jet

The HAL share price increased by as much as 4.30% on the NSE today. It recorded an intraday high of ₹4,163 per share. The stock witnessed significant trading activity today.

GE Aerospace Delivers Engine for Tejas LCA

The rise in HAL share price followed positive news reports. These reports indicated a key delivery from Ohio-based GE Aerospace. The US-based company delivered the first F404-IN20 engine. This engine is for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk 1A Fighter Jet.

F404-IN20 Engine Details

The F404-IN20 engine is the highest thrust variant in the F404 family. It is produced by GE Aerospace. This engine generates a maximum thrust of 19,000 lbf (85 kN) with afterburner. It incorporates advanced materials and technologies. The engine also features a FADEC system. This ensures reliable power and performance.

Engine Deliveries to Support HAL’s Schedule

As per news reports, GE Aerospace is expected to deliver two engines per month. This should help HAL meet its delivery schedule. HAL aims to deliver 16 aircraft to the IAF.

Potential Boost to HAL’s Earnings Estimate

Antique Broking reportedly suggested the engine deal could boost HAL’s earnings estimates. This is projected for FY26/27.

HAL’s Q3 Financial Results

HAL’s consolidated profit rose by 14.2% year-on-year in Q3FY25. It reached ₹1,439.8 crore, up from ₹1,261.4 crore. Revenue also surged by 14.8% year-on-year. It reached ₹6,957.3 crore, up from ₹6,061.3 crore. At the operating level, EBITDA climbed by 15.9% year-on-year. It reached ₹1,405.7 crore. EBITDA margin also expanded to 20.2%.

About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)

It is India’s largest aerospace and defence company. It was established in 1940 and is headquartered in Bangalore. It manufactures aircraft, helicopters, and their associated components. It operates under the Ministry of Defence and also manufactures crucial satellite structures.

It is renowned for notable products like the Dhruv helicopter and the Tejas aircraft.

At 3.30 PM, the HAL share price closed at ₹4,135.70.

Conclusion

HAL’s share price surged due to the delivery of a key engine for the Tejas aircraft. Investors are optimistic about the company’s future growth. This is driven by strong financials and defence sector orders.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.

How Have Stocks Reacted to Germany’s Debt Brake Reforms?

On March 21, the Bundesrat officially reformed its debt brake mechanism. This rule was introduced in 2009. It limited government borrowing to just 0.35% of the GDP annually. In a way, German states were not allowed to borrow at all.

Rationale of Germany’s Debt Brake Reform

The primary goal behind this was to keep debt low. This was especially after the 2008 financial crisis. It also aimed to adhere to EU spending rules. However, critics argued the debt brake was too restrictive. It limited spending on important areas such as crisis response, infrastructure and education. Now, with the rules eased, Germany can borrow and spend more.

Indian Stocks’ Reaction to Germany’s Spending Boost

Germany’s debt brake reform will allow the government to put billions of euros into sectors like infrastructure, green energy, and digital transformation. Its implementation will have a majo impact on Indian companies. With the Parliament’s approval for this fiscal shift, numerous infrastructure and power stocks surged on the Indian bourses. This included stocks like the Powergrid Corporation of India (+2.36%) and Ultratech Cement (+2.20%).

Opportunities for Indian Companies in Infrastructure

Germany has a €500 billion fund for infrastructure and climate projects. This creates new opportunities for Indian firms operating in Europe. For instance, TCS and Infosys are well-positioned to take advantage of this development, as per news reports. L&T and Bharat Forge can also gain potential benefits by securing new government or private contracts.

Conclusion

Germany’s decision to ease spending restrictions presents a valuable opportunity for Indian companies, particularly in infrastructure and technology. The increased investment in key sectors could lead to significant contracts and growth for Indian businesses in the European market. This fiscal shift marks a pivotal moment for economic cooperation.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Know Why Gensol Share Price Declined by 74% YTD

Gensol share price continues to decline fall sharply. It hit another 5% lower circuit today. This adds to the company’s ongoing market difficulties. The share price has now decreased by a staggering 74% year-to-date.

Reasons Behind Gensol’s Share Price Decline 

The Gensol share price decline can be attributed to several negative factors. These include major changes at BluSmart Mobility. BluSmart is a company closely associated with Gensol.

BluSmart Leadership Exodus

BluSmart has experienced a series of high-profile departures. As per news reports, CEO Anirudh Arun has stepped down. Chief Business Officer Tushar Garg has also resigned. Chief Technology Officer Rishabh Sood has left the company. Vice President of Experience Priya Chakravarthy has also resigned.

Nandan Sharma, formerly Vice President of Business and Operations, is expected to become CEO.

Leasing Deal Controversy

BluSmart is restructuring its operations. A leasing deal is now causing investor concern. Gensol Engineering, the parent company, is selling nearly 2,997 electric vehicles. The buyer is Refex Green Mobility, based in Chennai. These vehicles represent about 34% of BluSmart’s total fleet. They will be leased back to BluSmart. The transaction is worth ₹315 crore. It is awaiting regulatory approvals.

Ratings Downgrade and Allegations

Gensol share price decline has accelerated due to multiple credit rating downgrades. This is due to concerns about delays in servicing its term loan obligations. Allegations of falsified debt servicing documents have further eroded investor confidence. The company has denied any wrongdoing. However, it has initiated an internal investigation into the matter.

Gensol Share Price Performance

The Gensol share price performance indicates a negative picture. In the last 5 days, the share price has plunged nearly 20%. The performance over the past month is even worse, with a 63% drop. Over the last 6 months, the stock has tumbled 76%. On a year-on-year basis, it is down 79%. The company’s market capitalisation is now ₹785.84 crore.

Conclusion

Gensol share price decline is due to leadership changes at BluSmart and a controversial leasing deal. Credit rating downgrades and allegations of falsified documents have worsened the situation. The company’s stock has suffered significant losses in recent times.

As of Wednesday, 1.07 PM, the Gensol share price was down 5.00%, and was trading at ₹204.40.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Delhi CM Announces A Record Budget of ₹1 Lakh Crore

The Delhi government has announced a ₹1 lakh crore budget for FY 2025-26. This marks a substantial increase from the previous year. The revised estimate for the prior year was ₹69,500 crore. The budget was presented by the Chief Minister and Finance Minister of Delhi, Rekha Gupta.

Under the new budget, the government will focus on development initiatives. Transparency in governance will also be a key area. The budget prioritises efficient governance practices and welfare initiatives for vulnerable people.

Sources of Revenue for Delhi’s ₹ 1 Lakh Crore Budget

The Delhi government anticipates generating a large portion of its revenue from tax sources. This amount is projected to be ₹68,700 crore.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Value Added Tax (VAT) are the primary contributors. These are expected to generate ₹49,000 crore, accounting for 71% of the tax revenue.

Stamps and registration fees are another significant source. They are expected to contribute ₹9,000 crore, or 13%. State excise duties are projected to bring in ₹7,000 crore, representing 10%. Taxes on motor vehicles are estimated to contribute ₹3,700 crore, making up 6%.

Non-tax revenue will also contribute to the budget. Grants from the central government are expected as well. Capital receipts and borrowing will cover the remaining budgetary needs.

Allocation of ₹1 Lakh Crore Budgetary Expenditure for Delhi

The government has doubled the capital expenditure. It now stands at ₹28,000 crore. This increased spending will fund projects like roads. A major portion of the budget is allocated towards infrastructure development. Transport projects and social welfare programs are also key areas of focus.

Improvements to sewer systems are also in the existing pipeline of projects. Water supply and sanitation have been allocated 9%, ₹9,000 crore. Agriculture and rural development have received 2%, which is ₹2,000 crore.

The education sector has been allocated 19% of the budget. This amounts to ₹19,251 crore. Transport and roads receive 12%, totaling ₹12,195 crore. The health sector is allocated 12%, which is ₹12,143 crore. Housing and urban development receive 9%, amounting to ₹9,000 crore.

Social welfare programs receive 8%, totaling ₹8,000 crore. The energy sector is allocated 4%, amounting to ₹4,000 crore. Interest payments and debt servicing account for 2%, totaling ₹2,085 crore.

Key Announcements by Delhi CM and Major Allocations

Women’s welfare is a significant focus area in the budget. ₹5,100 crore has been allocated under the Mahila Samridhi Yojana. This scheme aims to provide a monthly stipend of ₹2,500. This will be beneficial for women aged 18 and above.

Transport and connectivity projects have also received substantial funding. ₹2,929 crore has been set aside for completing three priority corridors. Additional routes under Phase IV of Delhi Metro’s expansion are also included. Urban transport projects have been allocated ₹1,000 crore. This funding is for centrally funded urban mobility schemes.

Maternal health initiatives have also received considerable priority. ₹210 crore has been allocated under the Mukhyamantri Matru Vandana Yojana. This will provide financial assistance of up to ₹21,000. Six nutrition kits will also be provided to one lakh women.

Ensuring affordable food access is another key goal. ₹100 crore has been allocated for setting up 100 Atal Canteens. These canteens will be located in the JJ Clusters. They will offer nutritious meals at ₹5 per meal.

Improvements to shelter homes are also being planned. ₹696 crore has been earmarked for the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board. This funding will be used to improve slum areas and JJ colonies.

Enhancing safety and surveillance is a priority. The installation of 50,000 new CCTV cameras is planned. This measure aims to improve women’s security in the city.

Environmental reforms are also addressed in the budget. ₹300 crore has been set aside for pollution control measures. Funding for emergency environmental measures is also included. The Yamuna cleaning project has been allocated ₹500 crore.

This will fund the building of 40 decentralised sewage treatment plants. The aim is to prevent direct discharge of waste into the river. Flood management initiatives are also included. ₹150 crore has been allocated for drain remodelling. This will improve flood control mechanisms in the city.

Conclusion

Delhi’s record-breaking budget prioritizes development and social welfare. Key areas of investment include infrastructure and social programs. The government emphasizes transparency and efficient governance in its fiscal plan.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS), 2015 To Be Discontinued From March 26

The Finance Ministry has announced its decision to discontinue the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) for medium and long-term deposits. This is effective March 26, 2025. The decision is based on evolving market conditions. The performance of the scheme also factored in. The ministry stated this in an official release.

Short-Term Deposits May Continue

Short-term bank deposits under GMS may continue. This is at the discretion of individual banks. It depends on their commercial viability. The ministry note added this.

Background of the Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS)

The Gold Monetisation Scheme (GMS) was relaunched in November 2015. It was launched around the same time as Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB). The aim was to financialise gold as an asset class. SGBs allowed investors to buy “paper gold”. GMS was a gold deposit scheme. It enables individuals to store or sell their gold to banks.

Indian households are estimated to hold 30,000 tonnes of gold. This gold is in the form of bars, coins, and jewellery. From an economic perspective, this gold is seen as sitting idle. The government introduced GMS to make idle gold productive. It aimed to integrate it into the formal economy. It also sought to reduce gold imports.

How GMS Worked

Gold deposited under GMS was melted. It was assayed by a Collection and Purity Testing Center (CPTC). This applied to gold in the form of jewellery or other assets. The gold was then converted into tradable gold bars. Any impurities in the gold were deducted. Stones or studs from jewelry were returned.

The final amount was credited to the depositor’s gold account. Upon redemption, depositors could receive their gold back. This was in the form of bars or coins. Fractional amounts were converted to cash. The scheme provided an opportunity to earn interest on idle gold. It also aimed to save on locker charges.

Why GMS Did Not Succeed

GMS saw limited participation due to the prevelance of several emotional and cultural barriers. Indian households were reluctant to melt ancestral and personal jewellery due to strong sentimental and cultural attachments.

Besides, the limited number of testing centers made the process was cumbersome, lengthy, and inonvenient. There were heightened consumer concerns regarding gold taxation and disclosure. Under the scheme, depositors had to declare their gold holdings to earn interest. The interest earned was taxable. This discouraged participation.

Low awareness and outreach were other factors that led to the scheme’s failure. Poor promotion limited participation from banks. Many potential depositors were either unaware or uninterested in the scheme.

While GMS aimed to bring gold into the financial system, these barriers limited its success. This prompted the government to discontinue medium and long-term deposits.

Conclusion

The discontinuation of medium and long-term GMS deposits reflects its limited success. Emotional and practical barriers hindered participation. Short-term deposits may still be offered.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.