USFDA Flags Issues at Dr Reddy’s Hyderabad API Facility

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories announced on Tuesday, February 25, that the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) identified certain issues at its active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing facility (CTO-2) in Bollaram, Hyderabad. The regulator has advised the company to address and resolve these concerns.

USFDA Inspection and Classification

In a regulatory filing, Dr Reddys Lab stated that it received the Establishment Inspection Report (EIR) from the USFDA following an inspection conducted at the facility. The inspection, which was previously disclosed on November 19, 2024, has now been classified as Voluntary Action Indicated (VAI) by the USFDA.

A VAI classification means that while the inspection identified some issues, the FDA will not take immediate enforcement action. Instead, the company is expected to voluntarily address and rectify the concerns raised. Additionally, the FDA has marked the inspection as “closed”, indicating that no further regulatory steps are required at this stage.

Financial Performance in Q3 FY25

Despite regulatory scrutiny, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories delivered strong financial results for the third quarter ending December 31, 2024.

The company reported a 2.5% year-on-year (YoY) increase in net profit to ₹1,413.3 crore, compared to ₹1,379 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal.

Revenue from operations grew 15.9% YoY to ₹8,358.6 crore, up from ₹7,215 crore in Q3 FY24. At the operating level, EBITDA rose 8.9% to ₹2,298.2 crore, compared to ₹2,111 crore in Q3 FY24.

Stock Performance

On February 27, 2025, Dr Reddy’s Labshare price traded 0.23% higher at ₹1,129.15 at 9:24 AM (IST). Dr Reddy’s Lab’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹1,420.20, and a 52-week low of ₹1,120.01. As per BSE, the total traded volume for the stock stood at 4997 shares with a turnover of ₹56.44 lakhs.

At the current price, Dr Reddy’s Lab shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 18.16x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹62.12, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 3.50, according to exchange data.

 

 

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 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.

SEBI Imposes ₹5.05 Crore Penalty on ICCL for Cybersecurity and Audit Norm Violations

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has imposed a total penalty of ₹5.05 crore on Indian Clearing Corporation (ICCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of BSE, for alleged violations related to cybersecurity and system audit norms.

The penalty follows an inspection conducted by the market regulator between December 2022 and July 2023.

Inspection and Show-Cause Notice

Following its inspection, SEBI issued a show-cause notice to ICCL in October 2024, highlighting multiple compliance lapses. One of the key findings was that ICCL had submitted a network auditor report to SEBI without incorporating management or board comments.

As per regulatory norms, audit reports, along with management’s observations, must be reviewed by the governing board of market infrastructure institutions. The final report, including the board’s comments, must then be submitted to Sebi within one month of the audit’s completion.

Cybersecurity and Compliance Lapses

SEBI’s investigation further revealed that ICCL did not maintain an up-to-date inventory, as required under regulatory guidelines. While ICCL conducted cyber audits biannually, the regulator observed that issues flagged in these reports were not addressed promptly.

Additionally, the regulator found that ICCL failed to establish a one-to-one correspondence between its disaster recovery site (DRS), near site (NS), and Primary Data Centre (PDC), which is a mandatory requirement under cybersecurity regulations.

Conclusion

The penalty underscores SEBI’s strict stance on cybersecurity compliance and risk management within financial institutions.

The market regulator has reiterated that clearing corporations must adhere to prescribed norms, ensuring robust cybersecurity frameworks and timely resolution of audit observations.

 

 

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 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.

Azad Engineering Launches QIP to Raise ₹700 Crore

Azad Engineering has initiated a qualified institutional placement (QIP) to raise up to ₹700 crore, according to regulatory filings. The company’s board approved the opening of the issue on February 25, 2025, for the QIP of equity shares with a face value of ₹2 each.

Floor Price of QIP 

As per news reports, the issue price for the QIP has been set at ₹1,280 per share. This reflects a 1.8% discount to the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) floor price and a 5.6% discount compared to the stock’s last closing price.

Stock Performance 

On February 25, 2025, Azad Engineering share price ended 3.01% higher at ₹1,356.60. Azad Engineering’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹2,080 on June 20, 2024, and a 52-week low of ₹1,157.65 on March 14, 2024. As per BSE, the total traded volume for the stock stood at 6918 shares with a turnover of ₹92.87 lakhs.

At the current price, Azad Engineering shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 103.56x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹13.10, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 11.74, according to exchange data.

Azad Engineering Performance Since Listing

Azad Engineering made its stock market debut in December 2023, listing at a premium of over 37% against its issue price of ₹524. Since then, the company has gained significant investor attention, positioning itself as a key player in its sector.

What is QIP-Based Fundraising?

Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP) is a key fundraising mechanism for listed companies, introduced by SEBI to enable capital raising through the issuance of securities to qualified institutional buyers (QIBs).

Earlier, Indian companies faced challenges in raising funds domestically, often turning to international markets for financing. To overcome this, SEBI established the QIP framework, making it easier for companies to secure capital within the domestic market.

 

 

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 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.

Nifty’s Monthly Expiry Today: Manappuram Finance under F&O ban on February 27, 2025

The Nifty 50 index experienced a sharp decline this week ahead of the monthly expiry, exhibiting a mixed performance on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Trading in a range-bound manner, the index fluctuated between 22,625.30 and 22,513.90 levels throughout the session. Despite the limited movement, Nifty 50 closed at 22,547.55, registering a marginal decline of 5.80 points.

Stocks Under F&O Ban on Nifty’s Monthly Expiry Day

Ahead of the Nifty monthly expiry on Thursday, February 27, 2025, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) has imposed a trading ban on one stock in the futures and options (F&O) segment. The restriction was enforced after the security exceeded 95% of the market-wide position limit (MWPL). While F&O trading for the stock remains restricted, it continues to be available for trading in the cash market.

The stocks under the F&O ban for February 27 include:

  • Manappuram Finance

On February 25, 2025, Manappuram Finance share price jumped 0.49%, closing at ₹205.10. According to BSE data, the stock recorded a total traded volume of 5.69 lakh shares, translating to a turnover of ₹11.68 crore.

At the current price, Manappuram Finance shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 9.66x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹21.23, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 1.56, according to exchange data.

Why Are Stocks Under F&O Ban?

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has announced that certain securities have crossed 95% of the market-wide position limit (MWPL) and are now placed under the exchange’s ban period for derivative contracts.

As per the NSE statement, traders and members are allowed to trade in these securities’ derivative contracts only to reduce their positions through offsetting trades. Any attempt to increase open positions will result in penal and disciplinary action. During the F&O ban period, no new positions can be initiated in the derivative contracts of the affected stocks.

About Nifty Monthly Expiry Day?

Nifty monthly contracts expire on the last Thursday of each month unless it coincides with a trading holiday, in which case the expiry is advanced to the previous trading day. All contracts are settled at the normal market closing time on expiry day or at a later time determined by the exchange.

If the last Thursday of the expiry period is a trading holiday, the expiry for individual securities is also shifted to the preceding trading session. Notably, in MarketWatch, expiry dates are not displayed for the final week’s contracts, as they are classified as monthly contracts. Instead, only the month’s name and the strike price are shown.

 

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 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.

Stocks to Watch on February 27, 2025: Wipro, SpiceJet, Tata Power and More in Focus

As of 7:39 AM, GIFT Nifty futures were up 23.50 points at ₹22,588.50. In the previous session, the BSE Sensex gained 147.71 points (0.20%) to close at 74,602.12, while the NSE Nifty50 declined by 5.80 points (0.03%) to settle at 22,547.55.

Here are key stocks to watch today:

SpiceJet

Budget carrier SpiceJet has reported a profit after tax (PAT) of ₹26 crore in Q3 FY25, marking a turnaround from a loss of ₹300 crore in the same period last year. The airline’s total revenue surged 35% year-on-year to ₹1,651 crore, driven by higher passenger demand, improved pricing, and operational efficiencies.

Wipro

Wipro has announced a $200 million investment in its venture arm, Wipro Ventures, as part of its latest funding round aimed at accelerating support for early- to mid-stage startups. This marks the fourth round of investment since Wipro Ventures was established in 2015.

Infosys

Infosys has introduced an open-source Responsible AI toolkit to address risks and ethical concerns associated with AI adoption. Part of the Infosys Topaz Responsible AI Suite, the initiative aims to help enterprises innovate responsibly while mitigating potential ethical challenges in AI implementation.

Bharti Airtel 

Bharti Airtel confirmed on Wednesday that it is in discussions with the Tata Group regarding a potential merger of Tata Play with its direct-to-home (DTH) subsidiary, Bharti Telemedia. In an exchange filing, Airtel stated that it is exploring a possible transaction to combine Tata Play with Bharti Telemedia in a structure agreeable to all parties involved.

KPI Green Energy

KPI Green Energy announced that its parent company, KP Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Madhya Pradesh to develop 1.8 GW of renewable energy projects in the state.

UltraTech Cement

UltraTech Cement’s board has approved the implementation of the demerger scheme involving Kesoram Industries, effective March 1, 2025. As part of the scheme, UltraTech will issue one equity share of ₹10 each for every 52 equity shares of ₹10 each held by Kesoram’s shareholders as of the record date.

Adani Green Energy

Adani Green Energy has received a Letter of Award (LOA) from Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation (UPPCL) for developing a 1,250 MW energy storage capacity through pumped hydro storage projects (PSP).

Tata Power 

Tata Power has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Advantage Assam 2.0 to advance its commitment to renewable energy and sustainable development in the state. The company plans to invest ₹30,000 crore to develop renewable energy projects with a capacity of up to 5,000 MW in Assam.

Conclusion

India’s business landscape is undergoing a dynamic shift with strategic investments, financial recoveries, and technological advancements. SpiceJet’s profitability, Wipro’s $200 million venture boost, and Infosys’ AI innovation highlight growth and digital transformation across sectors.

Meanwhile, Tata Power, Adani Green, and KPI Green Energy drive renewable expansion, reinforcing sustainability efforts. The potential Tata Play-Bharti Telemedia merger and UltraTech Cement’s demerger reflect ongoing consolidation, shaping the corporate ecosystem.

 

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.

Shares That Hit Circuit Limits On February 25, 2025, Thangamayil Jewellery, Vijaya Diagnostic Centre and More

On February 25, 2025, BSE Sensex closed 0.20% higher at 74,602.12, while Nifty50 fell 0.03% to 22,547.55. Amidst the market volatility, stocks like Thangamayil Jewellery, E2E Networks and Indo Vijaya Diagnostic Centre hit circuit limits, reflecting significant price movements. Check out the full list of stocks hitting circuits today.

Stocks That Hit Upper Circuit on February 25, 2025

Symbol LTP %chng Price Band % Volume(Lakhs) Value(₹ Crores)
Vijaya Diagnostic Centre 1,053.20 14.07 20 64.71 664.84
Godfrey Phillips India 5,667.75 1.46 5 4.76 275.34
Thangamayil Jewellery 1,863.05 20 20 2.69 47.93
Avalon Technologies 697.5 3.85 5 6.52 45.63
Blue Jet Healthcare 795 4.46 5 3.93 31.16

Stocks That Hit Lower Circuit on February 25, 2025

Symbol LTP %chng Price Band % Volume(Lakhs) Value(₹ Crores)
E2E Networks 1,980.20 -5 5 1.14 23.15
Deccan Cements 838 -6.74 10 1.65 13.9
Trident Techlabs 803.95 -5 5 0.66 5.32
Unitech 6.88 -4.44 5 61.67 4.3
Sahana Systems 1,374.00 -3.31 5 0.12 1.61

Overview of Companies Hitting Circuits Today

  • Thangamayil Jewellery

On February 25, 2025, Thangamayil Jewellery share price ended 20% higher at ₹1,861.85. Thangamayil Jewellery’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹2,558.06, and a 52-week low of ₹1,107.62. At the current price, Thangamayil Jewellery shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 44.21x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹42.11, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 9.90, according to exchange data.

  • Vijaya Diagnostic Centre

On February 25, 2025, Vijaya Diagnostic Centre share price ended 13.99% higher at ₹1052.50. Vijaya Diagnostic Centre’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹1,276.75, and a 52-week low of ₹596.05. At the current price, Vijaya Diagnostic Centre shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 81.59x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹12.90, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 15.09, according to exchange data.

  • E2E Networks

On February 25, 2025, E2E Networks share price ended 5% lower at ₹1,980.20. E2E Networks’ share price reached a 52-week high of ₹5,487.65, and a 52-week low of ₹780.35. At the current price, E2E Networks shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 111.17x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹22.47, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 2.68, according to exchange data.

  • Deccan Cements

On February 25, 2025, Deccan Cements share price ended 7.03% lower at ₹833.25. Deccan Cements’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹925.70 and a 52-week low of ₹525.60. At the current price, Deccan Cements shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 450.41x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹1.85, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 1.64, according to exchange data.

  • Blue Jet Healthcare

On February 25, 2025, Blue Jet Healthcare share price ended 3.95% higher at ₹797.85. Blue Jet Healthcare’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹844.85, and a 52-week low of ₹328.95. At the current price, Blue Jet Healthcare India shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 58.97x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹13.53, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 14.98, according to exchange data.

 

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.

Best Drone Stocks in India For March 2025: Zen Technologies, Rattanindia Enterprises and More- Based on 5Y CAGR

India’s drone industry is witnessing rapid expansion, with growing opportunities for investors across sectors such as agriculture, logistics, defence, and entertainment. As drone applications continue to evolve, industry experts predict substantial growth, supported by rising demand and government initiatives aimed at making India a global leader in drone technology.

The Indian drone market is expected to reach ₹120-150 billion (USD 1.5-1.9 billion) by 2026, with infrastructure and agriculture currently being the most prominent sectors utilising drones. However, new use cases are emerging, driving broader adoption across multiple industries. The surge in drone technology is backed by increasing investments, government incentives, and a wave of startups developing innovative applications for drones.

Best Drone Stock in March 2025 Based on 5Y CAGR

Name Market Cap (₹ Crore) ↓5Y CAGR (%) PE Ratio
Zen Technologies Ltd 9,830.73 82.15 76.87
Rattanindia Enterprises Ltd 6,236.09 72.58 14.63
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd 2,24,066.38 56.54 29.40
Bharat Electronics Ltd 1,87,386.18 56.51 47.03

Note: The best drone stocks list is as of February 25, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on the 5Y CAGR. The following parameters have been used to screen the stocks.

Overview of Best Drone Stocks in March 2025

1. Zen Technologies Limited

Founded in 1996, Zen Technologies Limited specialises in developing combat training and counter-drone solutions for defence and security forces, supporting the Indian armed forces, state police, and paramilitary units with advanced, innovative technologies for enhanced operational efficiency.

In Q3 FY25, the company reported a net profit of ₹38.62 crore, up 22% YoY from ₹31.67 crore. However, a 40.8% decline from ₹65.24 crore in Q2 FY25, driven by lower earnings, raised investor concerns.

Key metrics: 

  • Earning per share (EPS): ₹23.88
  • Return on equity (ROE): 13.49%

2. RattanIndia Enterprises Limited

RattanIndia Enterprises Limited, the flagship of the RattanIndia Group, operates across diverse tech-driven sectors, including e-commerce, electric vehicles, drones, and fintech. Its key businesses include Cocoblu Retail, Revolt Motors, Neobrands, NeoSky India, Wefin, and Throttle Aerospace Systems.

In Q3 FY25, RattanIndia Enterprises reported a consolidated net loss of ₹170.4 crore in the December 2024 quarter, compared to a profit of ₹187.3 crore in the same quarter the previous year.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹2.75
  • ROE: 24.22%

3. Hindustan Aeronautics

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), one of the world’s largest aerospace and defence companies, was founded in 1940 by Walchand Hirachand. Fully government-controlled since 1942, HAL designs and manufactures aircraft, helicopters, and engines, achieving Maharatna status in 2024.

HAL reported a Q3 FY25 net profit of ₹1,43,979 lakh. The Board announced a ₹25 per share interim dividend, with a record date of February 18 and payout by March 14, 2025. The results cover the quarter ending December 31, 2024.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹129.35
  • ROE: 27.83%

4. Bharat Electronics Ltd

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a PSU under the Ministry of Defence, was established in 1954. It manufactures defence electronics like radars and communication systems, along with civilian products such as telecom solutions, medical electronics, and electronic voting machines.

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence PSU, reported a sharp rise in Q3 FY25 net profit, reaching ₹1,316.06 crore, up from ₹893.30 crore in the same quarter last year.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹6.79
  • ROE: 28.55%

Best Drone Stock in March 2025 Based on Market Cap

Name ↓Market Cap (₹ Crore) PE Ratio 5Y Return (%)
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd 1,63,500.08 29.40 870.76%
Bharat Electronics Ltd 77,500.20 47.03 947.06%
Honeywell Automation India Ltd 58,488.00 59.04 2.04%
Zen Technologies Ltd 41,895.08 76.87 1,889.12%
Rattanindia Enterprises Ltd 10,546.30 14.63 693.98%

Note: The best drone stocks list here is as of February 25, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on the market cap. 

Best Drone Stocks in March 2025- Based on Net Profit Margin

Name ↓Net Profit Margin (%) Close Price  PE Ratio
Zen Technologies Ltd 27.97 1093.80 76.87
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd 23.59 3,350.40 29.40
Bharat Electronics Ltd 19.03 256.35 47.03
ideaForge Technology Ltd 13.15 369.35 37.71
Paras Defence and Space Technologies 12.25 896.50 112.67

Note: The best drone stocks list here is as of February 25, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on the net profit margin. 

Government Initiatives to Strengthen Drone Ecosystem

Recognising the sector’s potential, the Government of India has set an ambitious goal to establish the country as a global hub for drone technology by 2030. To accelerate this vision, the government is implementing liberal policies that encourage both businesses and individuals to embrace drone adoption.

One of the key measures includes attracting ₹50 billion (USD 6.7 billion) in investments over the next three years, a move expected to generate over 10,000 jobs.

Additionally, the government is strengthening support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by easing eligibility criteria under the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, thereby boosting participation and growth within the industry.

With sustained policy support, rising investments, and technological advancements, India’s drone industry is poised for transformative growth, offering significant opportunities for investors and businesses looking to capitalise on this booming sector.

Key Considerations Before Investing in India’s Booming Drone Industry

1. Technological

As India’s drone industry experiences rapid expansion, investors are increasingly looking at drone stocks as a promising opportunity.

2. Market Factors

However, before making investment decisions, it is essential to evaluate several factors that could impact returns.

3. Regulatory

From regulatory challenges to technological advancements, understanding the industry’s landscape is crucial for long-term gains.

4. Understanding the Regulatory Landscape

The drone industry in India is governed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which has a complex and evolving regulatory framework. Investors must stay informed about any policy changes, as stricter regulations could impact the growth and operations of drone companies.

The Indian government is still in the process of refining rules to ensure the safe and efficient use of drones, meaning new policies could either boost or hinder the industry’s progress.

5. Assessing Market Demand and Innovation

The demand for drones is on the rise across multiple sectors, including agriculture, logistics, defence, and entertainment. However, investors should closely examine long-term trends and market projections to assess the sector’s true growth potential.

Companies that are leading in innovation—developing advanced drone technology and software—are likely to have a competitive edge. Technological challenges, such as improving battery life, navigation systems, and drone reliability, remain key areas that companies must address to sustain growth.

Conclusion

Despite strong growth potential, the drone industry comes with its share of challenges. Apart from regulatory hurdles, companies face intense competition, requiring significant investments in research and development to maintain an edge. Additionally, public concerns around privacy and safety could influence the pace of widespread drone adoption.

Given these risks, experts suggest that investors conduct thorough research into regulations, technological advancements, and market competition before making investment decisions. Diversification can also help mitigate risks associated with the evolving drone sector. While the industry presents significant opportunities, a well-informed approach will be essential for maximising long-term returns.

 

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 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.

SEBI Proposes Stricter Rules for Equity and Index Derivatives to Reduce Market Risks

India’s markets regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has proposed new measures to tighten position limits for equity stock derivatives and introduce stricter regulations for index derivatives.

The move aims to curb excessive risk build-up and potential manipulation in the derivatives market.

Stricter Position Limits for Single-Stock Derivatives

In a consultation paper released late on Monday, SEBI suggested linking the market-wide position limit for single-stock derivatives to the cash market. It proposed setting this limit at the lower of:

  • 15% of the free-float market capitalisation of a stock, or
  • 60 times the average daily delivery value.

SEBI stated that this would help reduce the chances of market manipulation and align derivatives risk with the liquidity in the underlying cash market.

Tighter Norms for Index Derivatives

The regulator also proposed stricter eligibility criteria for derivatives on indices beyond the benchmark BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty 50.

SEBI expressed concerns that excessive derivatives trading could impact stock market volatility, noting that market fluctuations have intensified since record highs were reached in September 2024.

To mitigate this, the regulator suggested that derivative contracts should only be introduced on indices meeting the following criteria:

  • The index must have at least 14 constituents.
  • The combined weight of the top three stocks should not exceed 45%.
  • The weight of the top constituent should not exceed 20%.

SEBI stated that these measures would prevent market participants from using index derivatives to create large and unmonitored positions in a small set of stocks, thereby reducing risks of manipulation and excessive volatility.

Pre-Open Session for Futures Trading

To further stabilise the derivatives market, SEBI proposed introducing a pre-open session for the futures market, similar to the practice in the cash market. This initiative would initially apply to current-month futures contracts for both single stocks and indices.

SEBI Seeks Market Feedback

The regulator has invited feedback from market participants on these proposals, with the consultation period open until March 17, 2025. The final regulations will be determined after reviewing stakeholder responses.

These new proposals follow SEBI’s previous reforms announced in October 2024, which raised the entry barriers for derivatives trading and increased transaction costs to protect retail investors.

 

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 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.

ONGC Approves ₹1,200 Crore Investment in ONGC Green for PTC Energy Acquisition

State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) announced on Monday, February 24, 2025, that it has approved an investment of ₹1,200 crore in its wholly owned subsidiary, ONGC Green Ltd (OGL), through a Rights Offer of equity shares. The decision was taken during ONGC’s Board meeting held on the same day.

ONGC’s Investment Plan for ONGC Green

In a regulatory filing, ONGC stated, “In continuation of our filing dated 05.03.2024, the Company shall make an investment in ONGC Green Limited (OGL) by infusing ₹1,200 crore (Rupees One Thousand Two Hundred Crore) by way of subscription to the Rights Offer of equity shares issued by OGL.”

The capital infusion will support OGL’s strategic expansion in the renewable energy sector, further aligning with ONGC’s broader clean energy goals.

Funds to Be Used for PTC Energy Acquisition

ONGC confirmed that the proceeds from the Rights Offer would be utilised for the acquisition of a 100% equity stake in PTC Energy Limited, as per the Share Purchase Agreement signed on September 13, 2024. This acquisition aligns with ONGC’s efforts to strengthen its renewable energy portfolio and expand its footprint in the clean energy sector.

“In continuation of our filing dated 13.09.2024, w.r.t signing of Share Purchase Agreement for the acquisition of 100% equity stake of PTC Energy Limited, it is hereby informed that OGL shall utilise the Rights Equity Share capital proceeds for investments in acquisition of 100% equity stake of PTC Energy Limited,” ONGC added in its statement.

Approval for Corporate Guarantee Replacement

Additionally, ONGC’s Board has approved the replacement of a ₹75 crore corporate guarantee on behalf of OGL for PTC Energy Limited. This move ensures financial security for the acquisition and further strengthens ONGC Green’s financial structure.

The investment highlights ONGC’s commitment to diversifying into renewable energy and reducing its carbon footprint while bolstering its presence in India’s growing green energy market.

Stock Performance 

On February 25, 2025, ONGC share price traded 0.79% higher at ₹236.20 at 9:50 AM (IST). ONGC’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹344.60, and a 52-week low of ₹225.35. As per BSE, the total traded volume for the stock stood at 0.57 lakh shares with a turnover of ₹1.35 crore.

At the current price, ONGC shares are trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 7.61x, based on its trailing 12-month earnings per share (EPS) of ₹31.03, and a price-to-book (P/B) ratio of 0.91, according to exchange data.

 

 

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 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.

 

LIC Receives ₹57.28 Crore GST Demand Order from Delhi Tax Authorities

State-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) announced on Monday, February 24, 2025, that it has received a demand order from the Assistant Commissioner, Ward 206, Zone 11, Delhi, seeking a total of ₹57.28 crore in Goods & Services Tax (GST), interest, and penalties for the financial year 2020-21.

Breakdown of the GST Demand

According to LIC’s regulatory filing, the notice includes:

  • GST Demand: ₹31.04 crore
  • Interest: ₹23.13 crore
  • Penalty: ₹3.10 crore

The demand order cites the excess Input Tax Credit (ITC) availed by the corporation. LIC clarified that the order is appealable before the Commissioner (Appeals), Delhi and stated that it is assessing its legal options.

LIC’s Reaction on GST Demand

LIC assured that the demand would not have a material impact on its financials or operations. “The financial impact of the demand is to the extent of the GST, interest, and penalty. There is no material impact on the financials, operations, or other activities of the Corporation,” LIC said in its statement.

LIC’s Q3FY25 Financial Performance

Despite the GST demand, LIC demonstrated resilience in its financial performance for Q3FY25. The company reported a 21% year-on-year (YoY) decline in new business premium (NBP) to ₹43,075 crore, though it surpassed CNBC-TV18’s estimate of ₹42,406 crore.

The PSU insurer posted a 17% YoY increase in standalone net profit, rising to ₹11,056 crore from ₹9,444 crore in the same period last year.

However, total income declined to ₹2,01,994 crore from ₹2,12,447 crore in Q3FY24, primarily due to lower investment and policyholder-related earnings.

Stock Performance 

On February 25, 2025, LIC share price traded 1.57% lower at ₹763.70 at 9:33 AM (IST). LIC’s share price reached a 52-week high of ₹1,221.50, and a 52-week low of ₹745.15. As per BSE, the total traded volume for the stock stood at 0.12 lakh shares with a turnover of ₹94.63 lakhs.

 

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 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.