Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio Faces Fierce Competition as Airtel Unveils Affordable Voice and Data Plans!

India’s telecom industry is witnessing increasing competition as Airtel has rolled out budget-friendly recharge plans that directly compete with Reliance Jio. These new plans cater to various user requirements, including daily data consumption, voice calling, and even 5G connectivity. Here’s a breakdown of Airtel’s latest offerings and how they stack up.

₹299 Plan: A Daily Data Solution

Airtel’s ₹299 recharge plan is designed for users who require a daily data quota along with seamless calling services. Key features include:

  • 1GB data per day for 28 days
  • Unlimited voice calls across all networks
  • 100 SMS per day

Previously priced at ₹265, this plan has now been revised to ₹299. Despite the price hike, it remains a value-for-money option for those needing consistent data and calling benefits.

₹199 Plan: A Budget-Friendly Option

For users who require basic internet access with calling benefits, Airtel’s ₹199 plan provides:

  • 2GB total data for the entire 28-day validity
  • Unlimited calling to all networks
  • 100 SMS per day

Initially available at ₹179, the revised price of ₹199 still makes it a cost-effective choice for those who prioritise calls over data.

Airtel’s 5G Recharge Plan: Ultra-Fast Connectivity

Airtel’s 5G services are available to customers who subscribe to recharge plans with at least 2GB of daily data. Key benefits include:

  • Unlimited 5G data access in 5G-enabled regions
  • Enhanced internet speeds for smoother browsing and faster downloads
  • Requires a 5G-compatible smartphone and access to a 5G network

This plan is ideal for users looking to experience next-generation connectivity. However, availability is limited to areas where Airtel’s 5G network is live.

Conclusion

Airtel’s new recharge plans provide competitive pricing and benefits, catering to different user needs. Whether it’s daily data, budget-friendly calls, or next-gen 5G connectivity, Airtel’s latest offerings position it as a strong contender against Reliance Jio owned by Reliance Industries.

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.

PIB Fact Check: Is the Government Giving ₹46,715 to Every Citizen? The Truth Behind the Viral WhatsApp Message

A viral WhatsApp message has been making rounds, claiming that the Narendra Modi-led central government is offering financial assistance of ₹46,715 to every citizen, particularly targeting lower-income groups. The message further urges recipients to share their personal details to avail of the alleged benefit. However, a fact check conducted by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has confirmed that this message is completely false and is part of a scam.

No Such Scheme Announced by the Government

The Ministry of Finance has not announced any such financial aid scheme. PIB, the official fact-checking body of the government, has categorically stated that this claim is baseless. Authorities have urged the public not to believe or share such fraudulent messages and to exercise caution when receiving suspicious links.

How Does This Scam Operate?

Scammers use deceptive tactics to lure unsuspecting victims into providing sensitive information. Here’s how the fraud typically works:

    1. Fake Communication: Victims receive messages via WhatsApp, SMS, or email, claiming that the government is disbursing financial aid.
    2. Fraudulent Link: The message includes a fake link directing users to a website designed to resemble an official government portal.
    3. Data Theft: Upon clicking the link, users are asked to enter personal details such as:
      • Aadhaar number
      • PAN card details
      • Bank account information
      • Mobile number
      • OTP (One-Time Password)
  • Financial Fraud & Identity Theft: Scammers exploit the stolen information for unauthorised transactions, identity theft, and other fraudulent activities.

Similar Fake Messages in Circulation

This is not the first time such deceptive messages have surfaced. Here are some other false claims that have been widely circulated:

  • A fabricated message claimed that senior citizens above 75 years of age would no longer be required to pay taxes.
  • A forged approval letter falsely issued under the PM Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) by KVIC India promised a ₹17 lakh loan in exchange for a ₹51,000 payment.

Government Advisory: Stay Vigilant and Verify Information

Government authorities strongly advise against clicking on suspicious links or sharing personal data. Individuals are encouraged to verify such claims through official government websites or reliable sources before taking any action.

If you receive a dubious message, you can report it to PIB’s fact-checking unit or local cybercrime authorities to prevent further scams.

Final Word

Fraudulent messages promising government financial aid are nothing but scams designed to exploit public trust. Always verify information from credible sources and stay cautious while dealing with unsolicited messages that ask for personal or financial details. If in doubt, refrain from sharing any information and report the incident to the concerned authorities.

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.

Infosys Gets Clean Chit from Karnataka Labour Department Over Trainee Layoffs

The Karnataka Labour Department has absolved Infosys of any wrongdoing concerning the exit of trainees, stating that the layoffs do not fall under labour law purview. The clean chit was issued based on documentary evidence collected during the department’s inquiry.

A senior labour department official confirmed that a final report might be submitted to the government by March 4. Officials emphasised that the affected individuals were not regular employees but apprenticeship trainees, making labour laws inapplicable in this case.

Nature of the Layoffs: No Employer-Employee Relationship

On February 7, 2025, Infosys reportedly laid off approximately 350-400 trainees at its Mysuru campus after they failed assessment tests three consecutive times. This number represents nearly half of the trainees onboarded in October 2024.

Clarifying the legal stance, a department source stated, “They were all only trainees, with some undergoing training for three months. This cannot be classified as a layoff under labour laws since those laws apply solely to regular employment. There was no employer-employee relationship.”

Labour Department’s Investigation and Government Involvement

Following media reports of the mass trainee layoffs, Karnataka’s Labour Department conducted inspections at Infosys campuses in Bengaluru and Mysuru on 13th February. This probe was initiated after receiving directives from the Union Labour Ministry, which urged state officials to assess the situation and take appropriate action.

Infosys maintained that the company was following its existing policies, which stipulate that freshers unable to clear mandatory assessments cannot continue with the organisation.

Infosys’ Response and IT Employee Union’s Protest Plans

While Infosys has yet to issue an official statement on the latest development, company representatives have previously justified the decision, stating that maintaining high performance standards necessitates weeding out underperforming candidates. The company also asserted that it had provided transport, counselling, and accommodation support for affected trainees.

However, the Pune-based IT employee union, Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES), remains dissatisfied. On February 26, NITES held a press conference where impacted trainees shared their experiences. The union’s president warned that protests would be organised outside Infosys’ Mysuru campus if the government failed to intervene.

Impact on Infosys Share Price

Infosys share price declined by over 3% in early trading on February 28, 2025.

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.

These 5 Multibagger Stocks from FY24 Have Lost Over 50% in FY25

The Indian stock market has witnessed a significant correction, with the Sensex shedding over 11,000 points from its peak. This downturn has particularly affected stocks that delivered outstanding returns in FY24, as many have seen their gains erased in FY25.

Here are 5 multibagger stocks from FY24 that have plunged over 50% in FY25. (Price data as of 11:00 AM of February 28, 2025)

1. Jaiprakash Associates

  • FY24 Performance: Up 159%
  • FY25 Decline: Down 76%
  • Price Movement: ₹18 to ₹4

2. Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company

  • FY24 Performance: Up 106%
  • FY25 Decline: Down 69%
  • Price Movement: ₹370 to ₹115

3. Sanghvi Movers

  • FY24 Performance: Up 287%
  • FY25 Decline: Down 69%
  • Price Movement: ₹677 to ₹210

4. Jai Corp

  • FY24 Performance: Up 104%
  • FY25 Decline: Down 65%
  • Price Movement: ₹282 to ₹98

5. Adani Green Energy

  • FY24 Performance: Up 108%
  • FY25 Decline: Down 56%
  • Price Movement: ₹1,834 to ₹799

Conclusion: A Market Reality Check

These stocks serve as a reminder of market volatility, showcasing how rapid gains can be followed by significant corrections. While past performance can be impressive, stock market movements remain unpredictable, making risk management a crucial aspect for 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 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.

Gold Price Near 2-Week Lows; Check Gold and Silver Prices in Your City on February 28

On February 28, 2025, gold prices declined in both global and domestic markets. In the international market, spot gold prices have fallen by 0.70% to $2,864.94 as of 11:57 AM.

In the domestic market, gold prices have also dropped. Internationally, spot gold is trading near a 2-week low. In India, gold prices have decreased by ₹430 per 10 grams in major cities on February 28, 2025.

  • In Mumbai, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹8,487 per gram, while 22-carat gold costs ₹7,780 per gram. The 24-carat gold price per 10 grams stands at ₹84,870 as of 11:55 AM.
  • In Delhi, the 22-carat gold price is ₹77,660 per 10 grams, while 24-carat gold is ₹84,720 per 10 grams.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities on February 28, 2025

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of February 28, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 85,110 78,018
Hyderabad 85,000 77,917
Delhi 84,720 77,660
Mumbai 84,870 77,798
Bangalore 84,930 77,853

Silver Prices in India on February 28, 2025

In the international market, silver prices have declined by 0.77% to $31.25 as of 11:57 AM. In India, silver prices have dropped by ₹670 per kg.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

 

City Silver Rate in ₹/KG 
Mumbai 94,790
Delhi 94,630
Kolkata 94,670
Chennai 95,070

 

Key Takeaways

Gold Prices: Both 22-carat and 24-carat gold prices have fallen in major Indian cities. International gold prices are near a 2-week low.


Silver Prices: Silver prices have also declined in international and domestic markets.

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.

Meet SEBI’s New Chief: Tuhin Kanta Pandey and His Role Tata-Air India Deal

Tuhin Kanta Pandey has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), succeeding Madhabi Puri Buch, whose tenure concludes on March 1, 2025. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has sanctioned Pandey’s term for 3 years, entrusting him with the responsibility of steering India’s capital markets through a period of volatility.

Who is Tuhin Kanta Pandey?

A 1987-batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Odisha cadre, Pandey has built a distinguished career in financial administration. He currently serves as the Finance Secretary and Secretary of the Department of Revenue, where he played a pivotal role in shaping fiscal policies. His recent contributions include overseeing the Union Budget for 2025-26, which introduced tax reliefs worth ₹1 lakh crore for the middle class.

The Man Behind Tata’s ₹18,000 Crore Air India Takeover

One of Pandey’s most remarkable achievements was spearheading the privatisation of Air India—a move that had been long debated and repeatedly delayed due to financial complexities. As the longest-serving Secretary of the Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM), he played a crucial role in executing the ₹18,000 crore sale of the national carrier to the Tata Group in January 2022.

The deal marked the return of Air India to the Tatas after nearly seven decades. Pandey was widely credited for structuring the transaction in a way that made it viable, resolving ₹61,000 crore of Air India’s debt, and securing a smooth transition for the airline. His strategic approach not only salvaged the struggling carrier but also showcased his expertise in handling large-scale financial restructuring.

Challenges and Market Sentiment

Pandey assumes office at a time when Indian markets are under pressure, largely due to extensive foreign investor withdrawals. Since January 2025, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have offloaded over ₹1 lakh crore, impacting market sentiment. His leadership will be crucial in navigating regulatory reforms, investor protection measures, and broader capital market stability.

Expectations from His Tenure

As the head of SEBI, Pandey will be tasked with:

  • Strengthening regulatory frameworks to ensure market integrity
  • Enhancing investor confidence amidst increasing global uncertainties
  • Overseeing capital market reforms to foster sustainable growth

His academic credentials further bolster his qualifications for the role. Holding a Master of Arts in Economics from Punjab University and an MBA from the University of Birmingham, UK, he brings a global perspective to financial governance.

Will His Tata-Backed Disinvestment Experience Shape SEBI’s Future?

Having successfully executed one of India’s most complex privatisation deals, Pandey is well-versed in managing high-value financial transactions and regulatory frameworks. His ability to balance corporate interests with public policy could prove instrumental in stabilising market volatility and fostering investor trust in SEBI’s regulations.

Conclusion

Tuhin Kanta Pandey steps into the SEBI Chairmanship with a wealth of experience in finance, governance, and policy-making. As Indian markets brace for further global and domestic shifts, all eyes will be on how he navigates regulatory challenges and reinforces investor trust in India’s capital markets—just as he did when overseeing Tata’s historic Air India takeover

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.

Australian Premium Solar Secures ₹13.85 Crore Solar Pump Project in Tripura

APS, a key solar solutions provider, is expanding with a new project in Tripura. Strong financial growth and rising stock performance make it a promising player in the solar industry.

New Order Secured by APS

Australian Premium Solar Ltd (APS) has received a major contract from the Tripura Renewable Energy Development Agency (TREDA) to install solar-powered agricultural pumps. The project, valued at ₹13.85 crore, includes setting up 500 solar pumps under the PM-KUSUM Scheme (Component C). APS will supply, install and maintain 2 HP AC solar pumps for five years, covering warranty, maintenance and insurance. This order strengthens APS’s presence in India’s renewable energy sector.  

Company Overview

Founded in 2013, APS is a leading solar solutions provider in India, specialising in high-efficiency Monocrystalline and Topcon solar modules. The company also offers end-to-end Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services for residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural projects. With strong international expertise, APS ensures high-quality manufacturing and adheres to strict ISO 9001-certified quality standards. 

Financial Performance

APS has shown impressive financial growth. In Q3FY25, its net sales surged by 227% to ₹121 crore, while net profit jumped by 450% to ₹11 crore. For the full year, the company reported net sales of ₹150 crore and a net profit of ₹6 crore. This strong performance highlights APS’s expanding market reach and financial stability.  

Stock Market Performance

With a market capitalisation exceeding ₹800 crore, APS has delivered exceptional returns. The company’s Return on Equity (ROE) stands at 42.5%, while its Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) is 51%. As of February 28, 2025, at 11:24 AM, the shares of APS are trading at ₹421 per share. Its 52-week high and low are ₹670 and ₹196 respectively. 

Conclusion

APS’s new project in Tripura highlights its commitment to renewable energy growth. With increasing sales, profits and stock value, the company continues to strengthen its position in India’s solar 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. 

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

Premier Energies Shares Decline Over 3.5% as Lock-In Period Ends

Shares of Premier Energies Ltd. witnessed a decline of over 3.5% in early trading on Friday, February 28, following the conclusion of its six-month shareholding lock-in period. By 10:17 AM, the company’s stock was trading at ₹891 on the NSE.

With the expiration of the lock-in, approximately 10.6 crore shares—equivalent to 23% of the company’s total outstanding equity, according to a report—became eligible for trading. However, it is important to note that the end of the lock-in period does not necessarily imply that all these shares will be offloaded in the open market, but rather that they can now be freely traded.

A Strong Market Debut Followed by Corrections

Premier Energies made its stock market debut in September 2024, emerging as one of the most successful listings of the year. The stock listed at more than double its issue price of ₹450 per share, reaching a post-listing peak of ₹1,388.

However, in alignment with broader market trends, the stock has undergone a correction phase. The downturn has been more pronounced in early 2025, with the stock declining 34% year-to-date as of February 28.

Market Sentiment and External Factors Weigh on Stock Performance

One of the key factors influencing Premier Energies’ stock trajectory has been concerns over US President Donald Trump’s policies on renewable energy, which have created uncertainty within the sector.

Conclusion

Going forward, market participants may closely monitor the company’s capacity expansion plans and how competitors stabilise their cell production lines, both of which could influence Premier Energies’ 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.

BlackRock Held Waaree Energies Share in Focus After Aditya Birla Renewables Deal

Waaree Energies Limited, India’s largest solar PV module manufacturer, boasts an impressive aggregate installed capacity of 13.3 GW. The company has gained significant attention following a major order from ABREL EPC Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Aditya Birla Renewables Limited. 

ABREL EPC operates in India’s renewable energy sector, focusing on the ownership, development, and operation of clean energy projects.

New Order Strengthens Waaree Energies’ Market Position

Waaree Energies has secured a substantial order to supply solar modules with a total capacity of 410 MWp to ABREL EPC. This order further reinforces Waaree’s position as a key player in India’s renewable energy industry, which continues to expand due to increasing demand for sustainable power solutions.

Financial Performance in Q3FY25

The company has demonstrated remarkable financial growth in the December quarter of FY25. Waaree Energies reported a multifold increase in its net profit, which surged to ₹493 crore from ₹124.5 crore in the same quarter of the previous fiscal year. Additionally, revenue more than doubled, growing by 116% to ₹3,457 crore compared to ₹1,596 crore in Q3FY24.

Robust Order Book Reflects Growth Prospects

Waaree Energies currently holds a strong order book of 26.5 GW, valued at ₹50,000 crore. This indicates a healthy pipeline of projects that could drive future revenue growth and solidify the company’s leadership in the industry.

Regulatory Scrutiny: Recent Tax Inspection

In a recent development, on February 25, 2025, the Assistant Commissioner of State Tax, Mumbai, initiated a search and inspection at the registered office of Waaree Energies and its subsidiary, Waaree Renewable Technologies Limited. The inspection, conducted under Section 67(2) of the CGST/MGST Act, began at 3:45 PM and concluded at 8:00 PM, with further proceedings scheduled for the following day. The company and its subsidiary are in the process of submitting the required operational details to the authorities.

BlackRock’s Investment in Waaree Energies

Waaree Energies has also attracted significant institutional investment. BlackRock Institutional Trust Company, managed by the National Pension Service, invested ₹31.75 crore in the company during its IPO through the anchor book.

Conclusion

Waaree Energies continues to strengthen its market presence with major contract wins, impressive financial performance, and a strong order book. While regulatory scrutiny has added a layer of uncertainty, the company’s institutional backing and growth trajectory position it as a key player in India’s renewable energy landscape. 

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.

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank to Raise Funds Up To ₹750 Crores Via Equity Shares Sale

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Ltd. (USFB), headquartered in Varanasi, commenced operations in 2017 and has since established itself as a key player in the small finance banking sector. The bank provides a comprehensive suite of financial services, including savings and deposit accounts, microbanking loans, retail loans, housing loans, and gold loans. 

Raising ₹750 Crore via Share Sale

In a strategic move to bolster its financial position, the board of Utkarsh SFB sanctioned a capital raise of up to ₹750 crore through a share sale on February 26, 2025. 

The fundraising initiative will be executed via qualified institutions placement, preferential issuance, private placements, a further public offering, or other permissible avenues in one or multiple tranches. This capital infusion is subject to requisite shareholder and regulatory approvals. However, the bank has yet to disclose specific details regarding the deployment of these funds.

Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Financial Performance 

The bank’s financial performance for the third quarter reflected a stark downturn, with a net loss of ₹168 crore, a sharp contrast to the ₹116 crore profit recorded in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Despite this setback, net interest income remained largely stable at ₹480.13 crore, compared to ₹482.3 crore in the same period last year.

Statement From Managing Director

In a post-earnings conference call, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Govind Singh reassured stakeholders of the bank’s long-term growth trajectory, stating that the current expansion has endowed Utkarsh SFB with a robust franchise, sufficient to meet its growth objectives. As a result, the bank anticipates minimal expansion of its branch network in FY26.

Utkarsh SFB’s microbanking operations are deeply entrenched in rural and semi-urban regions, extending financial support through the Joint Liability Group model for individuals and micro-enterprises. The bank remains steadfast in its mission to drive economic empowerment by providing accessible and structured financial solutions to those in need.

Share Price Performance 

At 10:34 AM on February 28, 2025, Utkarsh Small Finance Bank Ltd. shares traded 2.46% down at ₹24.60 per share on the NSE.

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.