Sanofi India and Schaeffler India share price will be in focus today, February 27, 2025, as both companies are set to announce their dividend decisions.

Sanofi India Board Meeting

Sanofi India’s Board of Directors is scheduled to meet today to:

• Approve the audited financial statements (Standalone & Consolidated) for Q4 and FY 2024 (ended December 31, 2024).
• Consider and recommend a final dividend for FY 2024.

Sanofi had previously notified the exchanges on February 13, 2025, about its plan to propose a dividend.

Schaeffler India Board Meeting

Schaeffler India’s Board of Directors will meet today to:

• Approve the audited financial results (Standalone & Consolidated) for Q4 and FY 2024 (ended December 31, 2024).
• Consider recommending a dividend for 2024 if deemed appropriate.

The company also confirmed that its trading window has been closed since January 1, 2025, and will remain closed until March 1, 2025, in compliance with its Insider Trading Policy.

Other Key Developments

Sanofi India’s RTA Name Change

Sanofi India informed the exchanges in January 2025 that its Registrar and Transfer Agent (RTA) has changed its name from Link Intime India Private Limited to MUFG Intime India Private Limited. This follows the acquisition of Link Group by Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corporation.

Shantai Industries to Consider Stock Split

The Board of Directors of Shantai Industries Ltd will meet today at 1:00 PM at the company’s registered office in Surat, Gujarat to discuss:

1. Increasing the company’s Authorised Share Capital.
2. Sub-dividing (splitting) the equity shares of the company.

Investors will be watching these announcements closely as they could impact the stock prices of the respective companies.

Conclusion

Investors will closely monitor the dividend announcements from Sanofi and Schaeffler, while Shantai Industries’ stock split decision could impact its future market performance.

 

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.

As per the Global Power Index, India ranks fourth in military strength with a firepower score of 0.0979, where 0.0 represents a perfect score. The Indian government has set a defence production target of US$ 25 billion by 2025, including US$ 5 billion from exports. As one of the world’s largest defence spenders, India has allocated US$ 74.8 billion (₹ 6.21 lakh crore) for defence in its budget, accounting for 13.04% of the total budget. This marks a 4.72% increase from the 2023-24 budget and an 18.35% rise from 2022-23.

In 2022, India’s military expenditure stood at US$ 81.4 billion, making it the fourth highest globally, with a 6% increase from the previous year.

For FY 2023-24, India’s defence production was valued at ₹1,27,265 crore (US$ 15.37 billion), with public sector undertakings (PSUs) contributing ₹74,434 crore (US$ 8.99 billion).

This article highlights the top defence stocks in India for March 2025, selected based on their best 5-year CAGR performance.

Best Defence Stocks in March 2025- Based on 5-Year CAGR

Note: The best defence stocks list here is as of February 25, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on the 5Y CAGR. 

Overview of the Defence Stocks in India 

1. Nibe Ltd

Founded in 2005, Nibe Ltd specialises in producing key components for the defence sector, electric vehicles (EVs), and software development. The company is involved in fabricating and machining defence industry parts, assembling EV components, and developing innovative products through its EV division and the BVM R&D Foundation.

In the December 2024 quarter, Nibe Ltd reported a revenue of ₹138.88 crore and a net profit of ₹2.82 crore. This compares to ₹127.22 crore in revenue and ₹9.40 crore in net profit in the September 2024 quarter.

Key metrics:

• Earning per Share (EPS): ₹24.57
• Return On Equity (ROE): 14.92%

2. Sika Interplant Systems Ltd

Sika Interplant Systems Ltd is an engineering-driven company catering to India’s Aerospace, Defence, Space, and Automotive industries. Its core operations include engineered projects and systems, interconnect solutions, electrical module integration, MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) services, and value-added distribution. 

For the quarter ended December 2024, Sika Interplant Systems Ltd reported a revenue of ₹37.98 crore and a net profit of ₹6.63 crore. This marks an increase from the September 2024 quarter, where revenue stood at ₹33.24 crore, and net profit was ₹6.03 crore. 

Key metrics:

• EPS: ₹56.73
• ROE: 21.87%

3. Hindustan Aeronautics

Hindustan Aeronautics specialises in the production of aircraft and helicopters, along with offering repair and maintenance services. By FY24, its order book had grown to ₹94,000 crore, compared to ₹82,000 crore in FY22, with significant new orders anticipated in FY25.

In the quarter ending December 2024, Hindustan Aeronautics reported a revenue of ₹6,956.93 crore and a net profit of ₹1,432.60 crore. This compares to ₹5,976.55 crore in revenue and ₹1,490.36 crore in net profit in the September 2024 quarter.

Key metrics:

• EPS: ₹129.35
• ROE: 27.83%

4. Bharat Dynamics Limited

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is a Government of India enterprise specialising in the production of guided missiles and defence equipment. BDL manufactures and supplies guided missiles, underwater weapons, and airborne defence systems for the Indian Armed Forces. 

For the quarter ended December 2024, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) reported a revenue of ₹832.14 crore and a net profit of ₹147.13 crore. This marks an increase from the September 2024 quarter, where revenue stood at ₹544.77 crore, and net profit was ₹122.53 crore. 

Key metrics:

• EPS: ₹15.43
• ROE: 15.16%

Best Defence Stocks in March 2025- Based on Market Cap

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

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

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

Key Things to Keep in Mind Before Investing in Defence Stocks

• Technological Advancements

India’s defence sector is rapidly evolving with innovations in advanced technology. Investors should focus on companies that actively invest in research and development (R&D) to stay ahead of industry trends.

• Impact of Geopolitical Risks

Defence stocks are influenced by global events such as border tensions, conflicts, and shifting government policies. These factors can impact the sector’s stability and profitability.

• Government Policies and Regulations

The defence sector is heavily regulated, with policies governing procurement, licensing, and foreign direct investment (FDI). Investors should assess how these policies impact a company’s growth potential.

• Rising Defence Budget

India’s increasing defence expenditure signals strong growth potential for the sector. Companies aligned with government spending on equipment, technology, and exports are well-positioned for expansion.

Tips for Investing in Defence Stocks

• Understand the Sector: Stay updated on government policies, defence budgets, and emerging technologies.
• Analyse Financial Performance: Invest in companies with strong balance sheets, consistent earnings, and stable long-term growth.
• Monitor Global Events: Assess how geopolitical tensions and defence trends impact stock prices.
• Seek Expert Advice: Consult a financial professional to align investments with your risk tolerance and goals.

Risks Associated with Defence Stocks

• Geopolitical Instability: Border conflicts or international tensions can cause volatility in stock prices.
• Policy Shifts: Changes in government priorities or budgets may affect future growth prospects.
• Regulatory Challenges: Stricter compliance measures can impact operations and profitability.
• Dependence on Large Contracts: Defence companies often rely on major government contracts, making them vulnerable to delays or cancellations.

Future Outlook for India’s Defence Sector

• Strong Government Support: The government’s commitment to investing ₹6 lakh crore in the sector will drive expansion.
• Technological Innovation: Growth in AI, drones, and smart weaponry will enhance industry competitiveness.
• Foreign Investments & Partnerships: Increased FDI and collaborations with global firms are strengthening the sector.
• Export Growth: India’s rising presence in the global defence market offers long-term opportunities for domestic manufacturers.

Conclusion

Investing in defence stocks requires careful evaluation of a company’s financial health, growth potential, and risk factors. Understanding the complexities of the sector and seeking expert advice can help investors make informed decisions in this dynamic industry.

 

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.

Tata Investment share price jumped over 8% on Wednesday, reaching a high of ₹6,225 on the BSE. This surge came after reports confirmed that Tata Capital had received board approval for its much-anticipated initial public offering (IPO).

Tata Capital’s IPO Plan

Tata Capital, a major financial services company under the Tata Group, plans to issue 23 crore new shares through the IPO. Additionally, some existing shareholders are expected to sell part of their holdings via an offer-for-sale (OFS), according to a report.

Impact on Tata Investment Corporation

Tata Investment Corporation, which holds stakes in several Tata Group companies, is expected to benefit indirectly from Tata Capital’s IPO. Investors see this listing as a step toward unlocking value in Tata Group’s financial services businesses.

Tata Group’s Rare Market Debut

This IPO will be only the second public listing by the Tata Group in 20 years, following Tata Technologies’ successful IPO in November 2023.

Tata Capital’s Role in the Group

Tata Sons, the Tata Group’s main holding company, owns 93% of Tata Capital. The financial services arm provides loans, investment banking, and advisory services through subsidiaries like Tata Capital Financial Services and Tata Capital Housing Finance.

Regulatory Compliance and Listing Requirement

In September 2022, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) classified Tata Capital Financial Services as a systemically important NBFC (Non-Banking Financial Company), requiring it to follow strict regulations and go public within three years.

Stock Performance

Over the past year, Tata Investment shares have declined by 8.71%, while they have gained 0.88% in the last 6 months. In the past month, the stock has risen by 1.63%, with a sharp surge of 19.04% in the last week. This recent rally reflects strong investor optimism regarding Tata Capital’s IPO and its potential impact on Tata Group’s financial services sector.

Conclusion

Tata Capital’s IPO is set to be a major milestone for the Tata Group, potentially boosting its financial services portfolio. Investors are closely watching its market debut.

 

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.

 

SBI Cards and Payment Services share price is in focus today (February 25, 2025) as its shares are trading ex-dividend. The record date for determining eligible shareholders for the dividend payout is also set for today.

Under the T+1 settlement system, investors who purchased SBI Cards shares on February 24, 2025, will be eligible for the dividend payout.

SBI Cards Interim Dividend Details

On February 17, 2025, the Board of Directors of SBI Cards announced an interim dividend of ₹2.50 per share. Since the face value of each share is ₹10, this translates to a 25% dividend payout.

As per the company’s statement, the interim dividend will be credited or dispatched to eligible shareholders on or before March 18, 2025.

SBI Cards Q3FY25 Financial Performance

For the third quarter of the fiscal year 2024-25 (ended December 2025), SBI Cards reported a 30% decline in net profit, which fell to ₹383.2 crore from ₹549.1 crore in the same quarter last year.

The company also saw a rise in non-performing assets (NPA):

• Gross NPA increased to 3.24%, up from 2.64% in the previous year.
• Net NPA rose to 1.18%, compared to 0.96% in the corresponding quarter last year.

The drop in profit and the rise in bad loans indicate financial challenges for SBI Cards in Q3FY25.

About SBI Cards & Payment Services Limited

SBI Cards & Payment Services Limited, formerly called SBI Cards & Payment Services Private Limited, is a leading credit card issuer and payment service provider in India. It was established in May 1998 as a joint venture between the SBI and GE Capital.

As of February 25, 2025, at 9:49 AM, SBI Cards and Payment Services share price is trading at ₹842.15, up by ₹2.90 (0.35%). The stock opened at ₹833.00, reached a high of ₹842.90, and touched a low of ₹830.00. 

Conclusion

While SBI Cards maintains dividend payouts, rising NPAs and declining profits highlight challenges ahead. Investors will watch for recovery strategies.

 

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.

Ashok Leyland, the Hinduja Group’s flagship company, is working towards a leaner financial structure to boost profitability. The company has already cut costs significantly over the past 2 years and now aims to save a total of ₹2,000 crore by March 2025.

After reducing expenses by ₹750 crore each in FY23 and FY24, it plans to save another ₹600 crore in the current fiscal year. Chief Financial Officer K M Balaji stated that the focus has shifted from just cutting unnecessary costs to optimising operations for better efficiency.

Strengthening Market Position Without Discounts

Executive Chairman Dheeraj Hinduja emphasised that the company will grow its market share through strong products and services rather than aggressive discounting. Ashok Leyland’s market share in medium and heavy commercial vehicles (MHCVs) rose to 29.4% in Q3FY25 from 28.3% a year ago. However, it slightly declined from 30.6% in Q2FY25.

The company remains committed to long-term goals, including higher profits, international expansion, and market share growth.

Cost-Cutting Strategies

To achieve savings, Ashok Leyland is using multiple strategies such as:

• E-sourcing and commercial negotiations
• Zero-based costing (analysing each expense from scratch)
• Teardown analysis of competitor products
• Supplier negotiations and design optimisation to reduce vehicle weight without affecting performance

Despite a strong price recovery of 6-7% in FY23, increased competition limited price hikes to just 1% in the last financial year.

Improved Profitability and Margins

The company’s efforts have resulted in significant financial improvements. Its break-even point has reduced by two-thirds from FY21 to FY24, and standalone operating profit margins jumped from 4% in December 2021 to 13% in December 2024.

In Q3 FY24, Ashok Leyland’s standalone net profit rose by 32% year-on-year to ₹762 crore, while revenue increased by 2.7% to ₹9,478 crore. Operating margins stood at 12.8%, marking the eighth consecutive quarter of double-digit EBITDA margins.

Expanding Revenue Streams

Besides cost control, the company is also focusing on diversifying revenue sources beyond trucks. It is expanding businesses in:

• Spare parts
• Power Solutions
• Defence sector
• Exports

Conclusion

While future cost savings may become more challenging, Ashok Leyland remains committed to maintaining strong financial discipline, improving operational efficiency, and sustaining profitability.

 

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.

 

Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) have been a key pillar of India’s economy, contributing to growth while supporting the country’s energy, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. These government-owned companies operate across various industries, including energy, banking, utilities, and defence, playing a vital role in national development and government revenue generation. This article explores the top PSU stocks for March 2025, selected based on their 5-year CAGR, market capitalisation, and 1-year return.

Best Government Stocks in India March 2025 – Based on 5yr CAGR

Note: The best PSU stocks list provided here is as of February 24, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on their 5-year CAGR.

Overview of the Best PSU Stocks in March 2025

1.Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd

Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) is responsible for executing various railway infrastructure projects assigned by the Ministry of Railways (MoR), including track doubling, gauge conversion, new lines, electrification, and major bridge construction. 

In the first half of FY 2025, RVNL reported a total income of ₹9,472.82 crore, down from ₹11,063.52 crore in H1 FY 2024. Its net profit also declined to ₹510.82 crore from ₹737.51 crore during the same period last year.

Key metrics:

• Return on Equity (ROE): 15.71%
• Earning per Share (EPS): ₹5.99

2. Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) specialises in manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining aircraft and helicopters. It is a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence. 

In the first half of FY 2025, HAL’s total income rose to ₹11,60,255 lakh from ₹10,43,036 lakh in H1 FY 2024. The company’s net profit also increased to ₹2,94,763 lakh from ₹2,05,076 lakh during the same period last year.

Key metrics:

• ROE: 27.83%
• EPS: ₹129.35

3. Bharat Electronics Ltd

Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Defence, develops advanced electronic systems for the Indian Army. 

In the first half of FY 2025, the company reported a turnover of ₹8,530.43 crore, a 15.83% increase from ₹7,364.82 crore in the same period last year. Its profit after tax (PAT) rose by 39.03% to ₹1,867.41 crore, compared to ₹1,343.18 crore in H1 FY 2024.

Key metrics:

• ROE: 28.55%
• EPS: ₹6.79

4. Bharat Dynamics Ltd

Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL), a PSU under the Ministry of Defence, specialises in manufacturing guided missile systems and related equipment for the Indian Armed Forces. 

In H1 FY 2025, the company reported revenue from operations of ₹735.94 crore, down from ₹913.53 crore in H1 FY 2024. Its net profit declined to ₹129.75 crore from ₹188.91 crore during the same period last year.

Key metrics:

• ROE: 15.16%
• EPS: ₹15.43

5. Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd

Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), a leading integrated manufacturer of power plant equipment, specializes in designing, engineering, producing, installing, testing, commissioning, and servicing a wide range of products and services. 

For the 9 months ending December 31, 2024, the company’s total income rose to ₹19,662.15 crore from ₹16,022.21 crore in the same period of FY 2024. The company reported a PAT of ₹29.45 crore, recovering from a loss of ₹207.40 crore in the previous year’s corresponding period.

Key metrics:

• ROE: 2.01%
• EPS: ₹1.42

Best PSU Stocks in India – Based on Market Cap

Note: The best PSU stocks list provided here is as of February 24, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on their market cap.

 

Best PSU Stocks in India – Based on 1-year Return

Note: The best PSU stocks list provided here is as of February 24, 2025. The stocks are sorted based on their 1-year return.

 

Advantages of Investing in Top PSU Stocks

• Consistent Dividends

With government backing, PSUs maintain stable revenues, often leading to regular and dependable dividend payouts. This makes them a strong choice for investors seeking steady income.

• Government Support

PSUs benefit from government assistance, ensuring stability during economic downturns. This support includes financial aid, policy advantages, and protection from major market fluctuations.

• Strong Industry Position

Many PSUs dominate key sectors such as energy, transportation, and utilities, providing both stability and long-term growth potential.

Conclusion

PSU stocks offer reliable dividend income and potential capital appreciation. However, with numerous options available, thorough research is essential before making investment decisions.

 

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.