Budget 2025: Education Funding Rises but Still Lags Globally

The Union Budget 2025-26 allocated ₹1.28 trillion to the education sector, marking a 6.5% increase from the previous year. This is the lowest growth in the past four years.

Spending Comparison

Despite the rise, overall education spending remains below the NEP 2020 recommendation of 6% of GDP. For context, ₹1.20 trillion was allocated in 2024-25—a 7.14% jump from ₹1.12 trillion in 2023-24, and ₹1.04 trillion in 2022-23.

New Initiatives

This year’s budget introduced several measures to improve the quality of education. Key focus areas include artificial intelligence (AI) and the IITs. Finance Minister Sitharaman announced a boost for IITs and skill development, including plans to expand infrastructure at 5 post-2014 IITs to add 6,500 more seats. Additionally, a Centre of Excellence in AI for Education will be set up with an initial investment of ₹500 crore, and 5 National Centres of Excellence will help upskill youth with global expertise.

Challenges in Education Spending

While India has improved access to education, issues such as quality, infrastructure, and fair resource distribution persist. Education spending in India has mostly ranged between 3% and 4% of GDP over the last decade, fluctuating with economic conditions and government priorities. Increasing this spending to the target of 6% of GDP is seen as essential for long-term development.

Global Comparison

According to World Bank data for 2023, the US spent 6% of its GDP on education, and China spent slightly more at 6.13%. In contrast, India allocated only 4.6% of its GDP to education in its interim Budget for FY25. Germany spent 4.6% on primary and tertiary education (excluding R&D), and Japan invested 7.43% of its GDP in education. These figures highlight the gap between India and some major global economies.

 

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.

Reliance Power Q3 FY25 Results: Profit, Debt Reduction, and Solar Win

Reliance Power share price opened at ₹41.38 on the BSE, which was more than 3% higher than the previous closing price of ₹39.89. During the trading session, the price reached an intraday high of ₹43.69, showing a gain of over 9% following the Q3 results.

Q3 FY25 Financial Highlights

In the October-December 2024 quarter, the company turned its performance around by reporting a profit of ₹41.95 crore after posting a loss of ₹1,136.75 crore in the same quarter last year. Total revenue increased to ₹2,159.44 crore from ₹1,998.79 crore, while expenses decreased to ₹2,109.56 crore compared to ₹3,167.49 crore previously. Additionally, the earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) for the quarter stood at ₹492 crore.

Debt Reduction and Net Worth

Reliance Power reported total debt servicing, including repayments due within nine months, at ₹4,217 crore. The company improved its financial position by reducing its debt-to-equity ratio from 1.61:1 at the end of FY24 to 0.86:1 by the end of Q3FY25. It now has zero debt and no defaults, and its net worth has reached ₹16,217 crore.

Key Project Highlights

The 3,960 MW Sasan Ultra Mega Power Project in Madhya Pradesh was one of the top-performing plants, with a plant load factor (PLF) of 93%. The 1,200 MW Rosa Power Plant in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, achieved an availability of approximately 97%. Additionally, Reliance NU Suntech Private Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reliance Power, recently secured a solar battery energy storage system (BESS) project from the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) for 930 MW and 1,860 MWh.

 

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.

Happiest Minds Q3 FY25 Results: GenAI Push Amid 16% PAT Drop

Happiest Minds Technologies, a mid-tier IT services firm, reported a 16% year-on-year drop in its profit after tax (PAT), which fell to ₹50 crore. The decrease was mainly due to higher finance costs.

Despite the lower PAT, the company’s revenue grew by 27.5%, reaching ₹553 crore compared to the same quarter last year.

Healthy Demand Across Sectors

Joseph Anantharaju, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Product and Digital Engineering Services (PDES) noted strong demand from sectors such as BFSI, healthcare, consumer packaged goods (CPG), and manufacturing. He also mentioned that even larger IT services companies are beginning to see improvements after a prolonged downturn.

Strategy and Future Plans

Happiest Minds emphasises its focus on delivering high-quality digital services. The company is working on increasing its net new growth opportunities and expanding its large customer base. It is also diversifying its revenue through recent acquisitions, which help spread its business across different regions and industries.

New GenAI Initiatives

Looking ahead, the firm plans to establish a GenAI business unit, organise its operations into 6 industry-specific groups, and appoint a Chief Growth Officer. Executive Chairman Ashok Soota mentioned that the company aims to integrate generative AI features into its products and services, providing a competitive edge. Currently, Happiest Minds has generated revenue of $3 million from GenAI projects and has about 15 projects in the proof-of-concept stage, which are expected to result in significant orders in the next financial year.

About Happiest Minds Technologies

The company provides intellectual property and specialised expertise in Digital Transformation & Enterprise Solutions, Product Engineering, Infrastructure Management, Security, Testing, and Consulting. It concentrates on Security, M2M, and Mobility solutions in the solutions arena. Additionally, the company is an authorised partner of leading global IT firms, helping to deploy their services and develop custom solutions.

On 6 February at 11:02 AM, Happiest Minds Technologies share price  (NSE: HAPPSTMNDS) was trading at ₹688.75, down by ₹11.35 (1.62%). The stock opened at ₹701.00, reached a high of ₹707.05, and dropped to a low of ₹686.40.  The company has a market capitalisation of ₹10.32K Cr, a P/E ratio of 44.64, and a dividend yield of 0.83%, with its 52-week high at ₹956.00 and the 52-week low at ₹665.50.

 

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.

Sula Vineyards Share Price Tumble Over 3% as Profit Falls 35% YoY in Q3 FY25 Results

Sula Vineyards, India’s largest winemaker, reported a 35% drop in net profit for Q3. The profit fell to ₹28.06 crore compared to ₹42.98 crore in the same quarter last year.

Urban Market Impact

About 90% of Sula’s revenue comes from urban areas. However, urban consumption reached a two-year low in November due to high food inflation, slow wage growth, and unpredictable weather. This resulted in consumers cutting back on extra spending.

Sales Performance

  • Own Brands: Revenue from Sula’s own brands, which make up around 90% of total revenue, grew only slightly by 1%.
  • Wine Tourism: The smaller wine tourism segment saw a 12% increase in revenue.

Revenue and Expenses

Total revenue dropped slightly by 0.4%, while total expenses increased by about 11.4% compared to the previous year. The core profit margin also shrank from 33.5% to 24.8%.

Sales were further affected by-elections in Maharashtra, one of Sula’s key markets.

About Sula Vineyards Limited

Incorporated in 2003, Sula Vineyards Limited has grown to become India’s largest wine producer and distributor as of March 31, 2022. The company offers a range of popular wines under several brands—including “RASA,” “Dindori,” “The Source,” “Satori,” “Madera,” and “Dia”—with its flagship label “Sula” recognised as the pioneer of the wine category in India.

On 6 February at 10:41 AM IST, Sula Vineyards share price was trading at ₹350.65, down by ₹14.05 (3.85%) from its opening price of ₹355.25, with the day’s high at ₹355.25 and the low at ₹347.50.

 

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.

Over 20 Banks Offering 8%+ Interest on FDs: A Boost for Investors

Fixed deposits (FDs) remain a popular investment option in India, especially for those seeking safe and high-yield returns. As of February 5, 2025, more than 20 banks are offering FD interest rates of 8% or higher as per reports.

Read More About What is Fixed Deposit (FD)?

Top Banks Offering the Best FD Rates

Small Finance Banks Leading the Way

Small finance banks continue to offer the highest FD interest rates. Here are the top ones:

  • Unity Small Finance Bank – 9.00% (1001 days)
  • NorthEast Small Finance Bank – 9.00% (18 months 1 day to 36 months)
  • Suryoday Small Finance Bank – 8.60% (5 years)
  • Utkarsh Small Finance Bank – 8.50% (2-3 years; 1500 days)
  • ESAF Small Finance Bank – 8.38% (888 days)
  • Jana Small Finance Bank – 8.25% (1-3 years)
  • Equitas Small Finance Bank – 8.25% (888 days)
  • Ujjivan Small Finance Bank – 8.25% (12 months)
  • AU Small Finance Bank – 8.10% (18 months)

Private Sector Banks Offering Competitive Rates

Private banks are also offering attractive interest rates to stay competitive:

  • Bandhan Bank – 8.05% (1 year)
  • RBL Bank – 8.00% (500 days)
  • YES Bank – 8.00% (18 months)
  • IDFC First Bank – 7.90% (400-500 days)
  • IndusInd Bank – 7.99% (1 year 5 months to 1 year 6 months)
  • DCB Bank – 8.05% (19-20 months; 26 months to less than 61 months)

Public Sector Banks with Strong FD Returns

Government banks are also providing competitive FD rates:

  • Central Bank of India – 7.50% (1111 days; 3333 days)
  • Bank of Maharashtra – 7.45% (366 days)
  • Bank of India – 7.30% (400 days)
  • Canara Bank – 7.40% (3 years to less than 5 years)
  • Punjab & Sind Bank – 7.45% (555 days)

Foreign Banks Offering High FD Rates

Some foreign banks have attractive FD schemes as well:

  • Deutsche Bank – 8.00% (1-3 years)
  • Standard Chartered Bank – 7.50% (1 year to 375 days)
  • HSBC Bank – 7.50% (601 to 699 days)

FD Rate Comparison: Which Banks Offer the Best Returns?

  • Small finance banks dominate the list with the highest rates, going up to 9.00%.
  • Private banks compete with rates of up to 8.05%.
  • Public sector banks provide secure returns with rates up to 7.50%.
  • Foreign banks offer limited options, with the highest rate at 8.00%.

Conclusion

For those looking to invest in fixed deposits, small finance banks provide the highest interest rates, while private and public sector banks also offer solid returns. Investors should compare FD tenures and bank credibility before making a decision.

 

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.

Dividend Stocks in Focus on February 06, 2025: GAIL, ONGC, CAMS, Nestlé and More

Several dividend-paying stocks, including GAIL (India), ONGC, CAMS, Nestlé India, and Marico, will be in focus today as they turn ex-dividend on Friday, February 7, 2025. These companies have announced interim dividends for their shareholders, and investors who own these stocks before the ex-date will be eligible for payouts.

Highest Dividend Announcements

Among the listed companies, CAMS and Nestlé India have declared the highest interim dividends of ₹17.50 and ₹14.25 per share, respectively. Both companies have set February 7, 2025, as the record date to determine eligible shareholders.

Meanwhile, GAIL (India) and ONGC have announced interim dividends of ₹6.50 and ₹5 per share, respectively, with the same record date.

Full List of Stocks Going Ex-Dividend on February 7, 2025

 

Company Ex-date Announcement Record date
Computer Age Management Services 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹17.50 07 Feb 2025
Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹1.30 07 Feb 2025
Clean Science and Technology 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹2 07 Feb 2025
Epigral 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹2.50 07 Feb 2025
GAIL (India) 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹6.50 07 Feb 2025
Gateway Distriparks 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹0.75 07 Feb 2025
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹8.95 07 Feb 2025
Jasch Gauging Technologies 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹5 07 Feb 2025
Julien Agro Infratech 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹0.050 07 Feb 2025
Kirloskar Pneumatic Co 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹3.50 07 Feb 2025
K.P.R. Mill 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹2.50 07 Feb 2025
Marico 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹3.50 07 Feb 2025
Nestle India 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹14.25 07 Feb 2025
NLC India 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹1.50 07 Feb 2025
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹5 07 Feb 2025
Power Grid Corporation of India 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹3.25 07 Feb 2025
Quess Corp 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹4 07 Feb 2025
Shanthi Gears 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹3 07 Feb 2025
Shyam Metalics and Energy 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹2.25 07 Feb 2025
Steelcast 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹1.80 07 Feb 2025
Tube Investments of India 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹2 07 Feb 2025
Wonder Electricals 07 Feb 2025 Interim Dividend – ₹0.10 07 Feb 2025

 

Understanding Ex-Date and Record Date

  • Ex-Date: The day a stock trades without dividend eligibility. Investors must own the stock before this date to receive the payout.
  • Record Date: The company finalises the list of eligible shareholders based on its records on this date.

These dividend announcements have attracted investor attention, and the stocks will likely see increased trading activity today.

 

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.

 

Union Budget 2025-26: Govt Unveils BharatTradeNet, Manufacturing Push

The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, focuses on boosting India’s exports, strengthening domestic manufacturing, and aligning the Indian economy with global supply chains. Key proposals include the establishment of a unified trade platform, support for electronic manufacturing, and a framework to promote Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in tier-2 cities.

BharatTradeNet: A Unified Platform for Trade

The government has proposed the creation of BharatTradeNet (BTN), a digital public infrastructure for international trade. BTN will serve as a one-stop platform for trade documentation and financing solutions. It will work alongside the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) and follow global best practices to make trade smoother and more efficient.

Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing

To integrate India into global supply chains, the government will support domestic manufacturing by identifying key sectors based on specific criteria. Facilitation groups with senior officials and industry representatives will be set up to develop strategies for select products and supply chains.

Boosting Electronic Equipment Industry

Recognising the potential of Industry 4.0, the government will help the domestic electronic equipment industry grow, creating new opportunities for skilled youth. This initiative aims to enhance India’s competitiveness in the global technology sector.

National Framework for GCCs in Tier-2 Cities

A National Framework will be introduced to help states attract Global Capability Centres (GCCs) to tier-2 cities. This framework will provide 16 key measures, including improving talent availability, infrastructure, and building regulations. It will also establish mechanisms for collaboration between the government and industries to promote India as a hub for global business services.

These initiatives reflect India’s commitment to economic growth, self-reliance, and global integration, paving the way for a stronger manufacturing ecosystem and an improved business environment.

 

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 Blue Chip Stocks in India in February 2025: TCS, ICICI Bank, Infosys and More – Based on Market Cap

Blue-chip stocks belong to well-established companies with strong finances. They are known for their stability, steady growth, regular dividends, and strong brand value. They are less affected by economic slowdowns, making them a good choice for long-term investors. In this article, we will look at the top blue-chip stocks in India for February 2025, ranked by market capitalisation, 5-year CAGR, and Net profit margin.

Best Blue Chip Stocks In India In February 2025 – Based on Market Cap

Name ↓Market Cap (In ₹ Crore) 5Y CAGR (%) 1Y Return (%) Net Profit Margin (%)
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd 14,85,966.63 14.27 3.32 18.71
ICICI Bank Ltd 8,95,518.06 19.03 23.77 18.75
Infosys Ltd 7,86,499.60 19.24 12.31 16.56
ITC Ltd 5,69,505.50 17.41 9.63 27.78
Bajaj Finance Ltd 5,24,437.50 13.4 27.72 26.28

Note: The top blue chip stocks in India list have been selected from the Nifty 50 universe and sorted based on market capitalisation as of February 05, 2025.

Overview Of Best Blue Chip Stocks In India

1. Tata Consultancy Services

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is an Indian global technology company that provides IT services and consulting. TCS is the second-largest Indian company by market value.

In Q3 FY24, the company reported a revenue of ₹53,883 crore, slightly lower than ₹53,990 crore in Q2 FY24. Net profit stood at ₹11,832 crore, down from ₹12,994 crore in the previous quarter.

Key metrics: 

  • Earning per share (EPS):₹133.59
  • Return on equity (ROE): 57.71%

2. ICICI Bank

ICICI Bank is India’s second-largest private sector bank, providing financial services to individuals, small businesses, and corporate clients. It has a wide network of branches, ATMs, and customer service points. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, the ICICI Group is also active in life and general insurance, housing finance, and investment services.

In Q3 FY24, the company reported a revenue of ₹41,299.82 crore, up from ₹40,537.38 crore in Q2 FY24. Its net profit stood at ₹11,792.42 crore, slightly higher than ₹11,745.88 crore in the previous quarter. 

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹64.18
  • ROE: 17.46%

3. Infosys Limited 

Infosys Limited is a global technology company from India that provides business consulting, IT services, and outsourcing solutions. Established in 1981, it is based in Bengaluru. On August 24, 2021, Infosys became the fourth Indian company to reach a market value of $100 billion.

In Q3 FY24, the company reported revenue of ₹34,915 crore, up from ₹34,257 crore in Q2 FY24. Net profit stood at ₹6,358 crore, compared to ₹6,813 crore in the previous quarter. For FY23-24, total revenue reached ₹1,28,933 crore, with a net profit of ₹27,234 crore.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹66.03
  • ROE: 33.14%

4. ITC Limited

ITC Limited is a large Indian company based in Kolkata. It operates in six sectors: FMCG, hotels, agriculture, IT, paper products, and packaging. A major part of its revenue comes from tobacco products.

In September 2024, ITC Limited reported a revenue of ₹20,537.35 crore and a net profit of ₹5,078.34 crore. For June 2024, the revenue was ₹18,219.74 crore, with a net profit of ₹4,917.45 crore.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹16.46
  • ROE: 28.22%

5. Bajaj Finance Limited

Bajaj Finance Limited is a non-banking financial company based in Pune that accepts deposits. As of June 2024, it has 88.11 million customers and manages assets worth ₹354,192 crore.

In the quarter ending December 2024, the company reported a revenue of ₹15,371.02 crore and a net profit of ₹3,705.81 crore. This compares to a revenue of ₹14,487.43 crore and a net profit of ₹5,613.71 crore in September 2024.

Key metrics: 

  • EPS: ₹260.47
  • ROE: 20.35%

Best Blue Chip Stocks In India In February 2025 – Based on 5-Year CAGR

Name Market Cap (In ₹ Crore) ↓5Y CAGR (%) 1Y Return (%) Net Profit Margin (%)
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd 4,23,542.61 32.91 20.19 19.2
Cipla Ltd 1,17,027.31 26.44 1.05 15.54
Shriram Finance Ltd 1,08,445.95 23.04 22.4 20.23
Bajaj Auto Limited 2,48,857.62 23.02 16.61 16.55
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd 2,65,671.75 21.18 0.83 33.13

Note: The top blue chip stocks in India list have been selected from the Nifty 50 universe and sorted based on 5-year CAGR as of February 05, 2025.

 

Best Blue Chip Stocks In India In February 2025 – Based on Net Profit Margin

Name Market Cap (In ₹ Crore) 5Y CAGR (%) 1Y Return (%) ↓Net Profit Margin (%)
Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd 2,65,671.75 21.18 0.83 33.13
ITC Ltd 5,69,505.50 17.41 9.63 27.78
Bajaj Finance Ltd 5,24,437.50 13.4 27.72 26.28
Shriram Finance Ltd 1,08,445.95 23.04 22.4 20.23
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd 1,01,636.59 13.48 0.09 19.29

Note: The top blue chip stocks in India list have been selected from the Nifty 50 universe and sorted based on net profit margin as of February 05, 2025.

What Are Blue-Chip Stocks in India?

Blue-chip stocks are shares of large, well-established companies with a strong track record of financial stability. These companies, listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), can handle market ups and downs better than smaller firms.

Key Features of Blue-Chip Stocks

  • Steady Returns

Blue-chip stocks provide stable returns, though they may not grow as fast as small or mid-cap stocks. They help investors reduce risk and maintain a balanced portfolio.

  • Regular Dividends

Many blue-chip companies share their profits with investors through dividends. While the amount may change based on company performance, dividends offer a steady income.

  • Lower Risk

These companies are financially strong, well-managed, and usually carry little debt. As a result, their stock prices are less volatile and tend to perform better during economic downturns.

  • Best for Long-Term Investors

Blue-chip stocks are a good choice for investors looking for long-term stability and gradual growth.

Risks of Investing in Blue-Chip Stocks

  • Slower Growth

Since these companies are already well-established, they may not grow as quickly as newer or smaller companies. While they offer stability, they provide fewer chances for quick profits.

  • High Valuation

Because blue-chip stocks are considered safe investments, their prices can sometimes be too high. Buying at an overvalued price may reduce future returns and increase risks if the market corrects.

Conclusion

Blue-chip stocks are a great option for conservative investors looking for stable returns and regular dividends. They offer safety during market fluctuations but are not completely risk-free. To minimise risk, investors should diversify their portfolios by including a mix of different types of stocks.

 

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

Closing Bell: Sensex Falls 313 pts, Nifty at 23,696; Smallcaps Shine on February 05, 2025

The Indian stock market had a mixed trading session on February 5, with benchmark indices closing in the red. The BSE Sensex dropped 312.53 points (0.40%), ending at 78,271.28. It moved between a high of 78,735.41 and a low of 78,226.26 during the day.

Similarly, the NSE Nifty50 fell 42.95 points (0.18%) to settle at 23,696.30, trading within a range of 23,807.30 (high) and 23,680.45 (low).

Top Gainers and Losers

Out of the 50 Nifty stocks, 25 ended in the red. The biggest losers included Asian Paints, Titan, Nestle India, Britannia Industries, and Tata Consumer, which saw losses of up to 3.40%. On the other hand, ONGC, Hindalco, Apollo Hospitals, and BPCL were among the gainers, rising up to 2.90%.

While large-cap stocks struggled, small-cap stocks outperformed. The Nifty Smallcap100 index jumped 1.85%, while the Nifty Midcap100 index gained 0.68%.

Sectoral Performance

Most sectoral indices on the NSE closed higher, except for Nifty FMCG, Realty, Auto, and Consumer Durables, which lost up to 1.85%. The Nifty PSU Bank, Metal, OMCs, and Media indices saw strong gains, each rising over 1%.

Oil Prices

As of February 05, 2025, at 03:37 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $75.76, down by 0.58%.

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.

 

MTNL Shares Surge 20%: What’s Behind the Rally?

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL) share price saw a sharp rise of 20% in its share price, reaching the upper circuit limit of ₹57.16 on the BSE on February 5. This surge follows a 6% gain in the previous session. The stock opened at ₹54, up from its last close of ₹47.64, and peaked at ₹57.16 during intraday trading. Around 12:10 PM, it was trading 17.74% higher at ₹56.09.

Over the past 5 days, MTNL share price has gained 26.34%, while in the last month, it rose by 16.68%. Over the past year, the stock has increased by 13.99%, and in the last 5 years, it has surged an impressive 400.53%.

Why Is MTNL Share Price Rising?

  • Government Plans to Support MTNL

The recent rally in MTNL shares coincides with announcements from Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman regarding broadband connectivity for government secondary schools and healthcare centres under the ‘Bharat Net’ project. Additionally, reports suggest that the government may allow MTNL and BSNL to monetise their assets, potentially boosting their financial health.

  • MTNL’s Financial Recovery and Rating Update

MTNL’s stock had dropped to ₹41.40 on January 28, 2025, and is still down 59% from its 52-week high of ₹101.88, reached in July 2024. However, in December 2024, CARE Ratings upgraded MTNL’s debt rating to ‘CARE AAA’ with a stable outlook, reflecting sustained government support.

  • Revival Plans and Future Outlook

MTNL is a ‘Navratna’ status company, offering it more operational freedom. The government’s revival plan for MTNL and BSNL, worth ₹1.64 trillion, focuses on upgrading services, expanding telecom networks, and supporting their financial viability. While asset monetisation progress has been slow, the government continues to back MTNL’s operations and financial needs.

About Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL), a fully owned subsidiary of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), is based in New Delhi, India. It offers telecom services in the metro cities of Mumbai and New Delhi, as well as in Mauritius, Africa.

 

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.