Bharti Airtel and Tata Group To Explore Potential DTH Business Merger

New Delhi is home to the headquarters of the international Indian Punjabi telecom company Bharti Airtel Limited. In addition to the Channel Islands, it operates in 18 South Asian and African nations. In India, Airtel currently offers 4G, 5G, and LTE Advanced services.

Discussing with Tata Play For Merger

Bharti Airtel has confirmed engaging in “bilateral discussions” with Tata Group regarding a potential merger of their direct-to-home (DTH) businesses—Bharti Telemedia and Tata Play.

 

Bharti Airtel stated, “We wish to submit that Bharti Airtel and Tata Group are in bilateral discussions to explore a potential transaction to achieve a combination of Tata Group’s DTH business housed under Tata Play with Bharti Telemedia, a subsidiary of Airtel, in a structure acceptable to all parties.”

DTH sector is Struggling 

This development comes at a time when India’s DTH sector grapples with a dwindling subscriber base as viewers increasingly gravitate towards more flexible digital content alternatives, leading to a decline in revenue streams. Industry analysts collectively suggest that consolidation is the most viable pathway for the DTH segment’s survival.

 

According to the latest Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Performance Indicators Report, the total active subscriber base shrank from 62.17 million in June 2024 to 59.91 million in September 2024. However, amidst the industry-wide contraction, Bharti Telemedia’s Airtel Digital TV has bucked the trend by witnessing an upsurge in its subscriber count.

Statement From Bharti Airtel

“In the DTH segment, we gained 29,000 new customers this quarter,” revealed Gopal Vittal, Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, in a recent earnings call. “Our unwavering focus on a streamlined pricing structure, compelling content offerings, and an integrated approach has led to consistent market share expansion.”

Share Price Performance 

At 11:34 AM on February 27, 2025, Bharti Airtel Ltd shares traded a 0.51% up at ₹1,649.80 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.

Muthoot Finance to Expand with 115 New RBI Approved Branches

India’s biggest non-banking financial company (NBFC) with a focus on gold loans is Muthoot Finance Ltd. The company, which has its headquarters in Kochi, Kerala, has established a strong reputation in the financial industry by providing a variety of services beyond gold loans, such as business and personal loans, insurance, money transfers, and gold coin sales.

Approval From RBI 

Muthoot Finance Ltd, India’s largest non-banking financial company (NBFC) specialising in gold loans, has received approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to expand its footprint with 115 new branches. 

In a regulatory filing on February 26, 2025, Muthoot Finance informed the stock exchanges of this significant development. The RBI has advised the company to furnish details of the newly established branches while also ensuring robust security measures and appropriate storage facilities for gold jewellery, including secure vaults.

RBI Guidelines 

The RBI’s letter stated, “With reference to your letter dated November 28, 2024, seeking permission for the opening of new branches, we hereby grant approval for the establishment of 115 branches as requested. 

You are also advised to inform the bank of the details of the branches once operational. Furthermore, the company is instructed to implement adequate security arrangements and ensure proper storage for gold jewellery, including safe deposit vaults, in accordance with prevailing regulations.”

Muthoot Finance Q3 FY25 Results

This expansion follows Muthoot Finance’s robust financial performance in the third quarter of the fiscal year. Earlier this month, the company reported a stellar 26% year-on-year surge in net profit, reaching ₹1,389 crore compared to ₹1,104 crore in Q3 of the previous financial year. Revenue from operations witnessed an impressive 36% year-on-year growth, soaring to ₹5,190 crores from ₹3,820 crores in the corresponding quarter of FY24. Meanwhile, the company’s interest income stood at ₹5,067 crore.

Share Price Performance 

At 11:32 AM on February 27, 2025, Muthoot Finance Ltd shares traded 1.36% up at ₹2,212.95 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.

UPI Lite Users Will Soon Be Able to Transfer Funds Back to Bank Account

UPI Lite is a digital payments feature introduced by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) in September 2022 to boost small-value transactions without requiring a UPI PIN. It allows users to make instant payments of up to ₹500 per transaction, with a total wallet balance limit of ₹2,000, directly from their bank-linked UPI app.

Users of UPI Lite will soon be able to transfer their wallet balance back to their bank accounts without disabling the service. The NPCI  has instructed banks and UPI Lite-enabled platforms to implement this feature by March 31, 2025.

Current Limitations of UPI Lite

As of now, UPI Lite only allows users to add money to their wallets for small transactions. There is no option to withdraw funds. If users want to access their balance, they must disable UPI Lite, after which the remaining money is credited back to their bank account.

What Changes for Users?

With the new ‘transfer out’ functionality, users will be able to withdraw money from their UPI Lite balance and send it back to their linked bank account without turning off the feature. NPCI has introduced Purpose Code 46 to categorise these transactions.

Other Updates

  • Reconciliation Requirements: Banks issuing UPI Lite wallets will need to maintain Lite Reference Number (LRN) balances and reconcile them daily with NPCI data.
  • Security: UPI Lite-enabled apps will require users to set up an app passcode, biometric authentication, or a pattern lock at login to prevent unauthorised access.
  • Deadline for Implementation: NPCI has set March 31, 2025, as the final date for all banks and payment service providers to introduce this feature. Existing UPI Lite guidelines will remain unchanged, apart from these updates.

How to Enable UPI Lite

  1. Open a UPI-enabled app.
  2. Select Enable UPI Lite from the options.
  3. Accept the terms and conditions.
  4. Enter the amount you want to add.
  5. Select your linked bank account.
  6. Authenticate using your UPI PIN.

Once activated, UPI Lite allows transactions under ₹500 without requiring a PIN. With the upcoming withdrawal feature, users will have more flexibility in managing their money.

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. 

Vesuvius India Board Approves Interim Dividend and First-Ever Stock Split

Vesuvius India Ltd has approved a stock split, the first in the company’s history. The board has decided to split each equity share with a face value of ₹10 into ten shares of ₹1 each. This is aimed at improving liquidity and making the stock more accessible to retail investors. The record date for the split will be announced after shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Dividend Recommendation

The company’s board has also recommended a dividend of ₹14.50 per share for the financial year ending December 31, 2024. The record date for the dividend has been set for May 1, 2025, and the payout will take place after shareholder approval at the AGM on May 8, 2025.

Stock Performance

Vesuvius India Ltd. surged 3.41% to ₹4,180, gaining ₹137.65 as of February 27, 11:52 AM. The stock has seen fluctuations over the past year. It is currently down 48% from its May 2024 high of ₹6,000 but has rebounded 34% from its 52-week low of ₹3,016.95.

Over the past year, the stock has gained 20% but declined 5.6% in February, following losses of 5.75% in January and 15.4% in December.

Company Overview

Vesuvius India Ltd manufactures refractory products used in steel production. It is a subsidiary of Vesuvius Group Limited, UK and has been operating in India since 1991. The company produces monoblock stoppers, ladle shrouds, tundish nozzles, and other industrial materials.

The board meeting, held on February 26, 2025, also approved the audited financial results for the year ending December 31, 2024. The company has been consistent in issuing dividends but has never offered a bonus issue.

Financial Performance

For the quarter ending December 2024, Vesuvius India reported:

  • Revenue: ₹507.5 crore, up 23% from ₹413.5 crore in the same quarter last year.
  • Net Profit: ₹68.46 crore, a 13.57% increase from ₹60.28 crore a year ago.
  • EBITDA Growth: 5% year-on-year.
  • EBITDA Margin: Declined by 300 basis points to 15.9% due to higher input costs.

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.

Godrej Properties Share Price In Focus on Sales Report

Godrej Properties Ltd has reported sales worth  ₹1,000 crore from its project Godrej Evergreen Square, located in Hinjewadi, Pune. The project was launched in November 2024 and has become the company’s most successful launch in Pune in terms of both value and volume of sales, as per the filing.

Project Details 

Godrej Evergreen Square has a total development potential of 2.41 million square feet, with an estimated revenue potential of  ₹2,045 crore. So far, the company has sold 1,398 residential units, covering 1.23 million square feet of area. As per the filing, the project is located in Hinjewadi, which is a residential and commercial hub in Pune. 

FIR on Chandigarh Project

Meanwhile, on February 26, the company reported that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR against Godrej Properties and Berkeley Realtech Ltd for alleged violations of environmental laws in a completed project in Chandigarh. The case is linked to Godrej Eternia, developed in Chandigarh’s Industrial Area, which allegedly falls within 10 km of the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and the City Bird Sanctuary, violating eco-sensitive zone regulations.

Godrej Properties responded, stating it was “surprised” by the FIR and will take necessary steps to protect the interests of its customers. The CBI’s action follows a preliminary inquiry initiated in 2023 based on a complaint from an official at Punjab Raj Bhawan.

Financial Performance in Q3FY25

For the quarter ended December 2024, Godrej Properties’ net profit rose 161% year-on-year to  ₹162.64 crore. The company’s revenue from operations increased by 193% YoY to  ₹968.88 crore.

Total booking value for Q3FY25 stood at  ₹5,446 crore, from the sale of 4.07 million square feet of area. This represents a 5% growth quarter-on-quarter, but a 5% decline year-on-year.

Share Price Movement

As of 11:36 AM on February 27, 2025, Godrej Properties’ stock was trading at  ₹1,956.45, down 1.54% for the day. Over the past six months, the stock has fallen 32.40%, while the yearly decline stands at 21.52%.

Conclusion

Godrej Properties continues to see sales in its Pune project while reporting an increase in profit and revenue for the latest quarter. However, the stock has faced selling pressure, showcasing broader market trends.

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.

NFO Alert: Axis Mutual Fund Launches Nifty AAA Bond Financial Services – Mar 2028 Index Fund

Axis Asset Management Company Ltd has introduced the Axis Nifty AAA Bond Financial Services – Mar 2028 Index Fund is an open-ended target maturity index fund investing in AAA-rated financial services bonds that form part of the Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index. The fund follows a passive investment approach, tracking the index with minimal deviations, subject to tracking error.

NFO Details

The details of the New Fund Offer (NFO) are as follows:

  • NFO Open Date: February 27, 2025
  • NFO Close Date: March 4, 2025
  • Fund House: Axis Mutual Fund
  • Fund Type: Open-ended
  • Category: Debt – Target Maturity
  • Benchmark: Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index
  • Fund Manager: Hardik Shah
  • Plans Available: Growth, IDCW
  • Lock-in Period: Not applicable
  • Exit Load: Nil

Investment Objective

As per the filing, the fund aims to provide returns that correspond closely to the Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index, before expenses. The strategy involves holding the bonds till maturity unless they are sold for redemptions or rebalancing.

Asset Allocation

  • 95-100% in fixed-income instruments replicating the Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index
  • 0-5% in debt and money market instruments for liquidity management

Risk, Expense Ratio and More

  • Risk Level: Moderate (as per SEBI’s riskometer)
  • Expense Ratio: Up to 1% of daily net assets
  • No Entry Load or Exit Load
  • Initial Investment: ₹5,000
  • Additional Investment: ₹1,000 in multiples of ₹1
  • Minimum Redemption Amount: No specific limit

In case of deviations due to changes in the underlying index, rebalancing is carried out within seven calendar days to maintain alignment with the index.

Listing and NAV Disclosure

  • The NAV is calculated and disclosed daily by 11:00 PM on the Axis Mutual Fund and AMFI websites.
  • The scheme is expected to reopen for continuous transactions within five business days from allotment.

Plan your SBI SIP investments better! Use our easy-to-use SBI SIP Calculator and estimate future returns with just a few clicks. Your financial growth starts here.

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. 

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

Edelweiss Mutual Fund Caps Subscriptions in Overseas Schemes

Edelweiss Mutual Fund has placed investment restrictions on seven of its schemes that invest in global markets. The new limit will be effective from February 27, 2025, capping daily investments at ₹1 lakh per PAN for lumpsum, switch-in, SIP (Systematic Investment Plan), and STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) transactions.

Reason for Subscription Limits

The fund house cited that these schemes are nearing the headroom available under the RBI-imposed overseas investment limit. In February 2022, SEBI temporarily stopped mutual funds from investing in foreign stocks to ensure compliance with the $7 billion cap set by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). A separate $1 billion limit per fund house was also introduced for foreign investments, including ETFs.

While SEBI later allowed mutual funds to resume foreign investments, they must still remain within the overall limit. As a result, some fund houses have periodically adjusted or capped subscriptions in global schemes.

Funds Affected by the Cap

The following seven funds will be subject to the ₹1 lakh per day limit:

Among these, 6 funds primarily invest in foreign equities, while the MSCI India Domestic & World Healthcare 45 Index Fund includes both Indian and US stocks.

Existing Transactions Remain Unaffected

Edelweiss Mutual Fund clarified that SIPs, STPs, and systematic transactions registered before February 27 will continue without restrictions. Transactions executed before February 25, 2025, before the cut-off time, will not be subject to the new cap.

Performance of International Funds

According to reports, different international fund categories have shown varied performance:

  • China equity funds have delivered an average 55.38% return in the last year (as of February 21, 2025).
  • US-based funds, including Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and NYSE FANG ETFs, have gained 26% on average in the past year.
  • Global equity funds have returned 17.48% in the same period.

Investors looking to increase their exposure to these schemes will now have to operate within the daily investment limit of ₹1 lakh per PAN.

Ensure steady returns with systematic withdrawals! Estimate your withdrawals with our SWP Calculator and manage your finances seamlessly.

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. 

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

Wipro Invests $200 Million in Venture Capital Arm to Fund Startups

Wipro Limited, a global technology services and consulting firm, has announced a $200 million commitment to its venture arm, Wipro Ventures. This marks the fourth round of funding since its inception in 2015 which is 10 years ago and aims to accelerate investments in early- to mid-stage startups.

The funding brings Wipro Ventures $500 million to invest in startups that support Wipro’s strategic priorities.

Strengthening the Startup Ecosystem

Wipro Ventures plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation by investing in high-potential startups working on cutting-edge technologies. The initiative connects Wipro and its clients to a global network of startups specialising in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure. Over the past decade, Wipro Ventures has backed 37 startups, deployed solutions across 250+ customers, and facilitated 12 successful exits.

Jay Leek, Co-Founder & General Partner at SYN Ventures, highlighted, “We are delighted to have worked with Wipro Ventures as co-investors over the years. They are well-positioned to capitalise on emerging trends in the industry. We strongly believe that Wipro’s value-add will enable startups to maintain their competitive edge and enjoy long-term success.”

Expanding Global Reach and Investment Strategy

Beyond direct equity investments, Wipro Ventures has also invested in multiple enterprise-focused and cybersecurity-themed venture funds across India, the US, and Israel. This approach enables Wipro to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and provides startups with access to a vast global enterprise network.

Srini Pallia, CEO & MD of Wipro Limited, said, “Wipro Ventures is strategically positioned to participate in and contribute to technological innovation across startup hubs globally. This latest investment reaffirms our commitment to helping startups grow faster, innovate, and collaborate with the IT services industry to support large enterprises. We envision a collaborative ecosystem where these emerging technologies can be deployed globally, drive progress, and create sustainable value for all stakeholders involved.”

Wipro Share Performance

As of February 27, 2025, at 10:45 AM, the shares of Wipro are trading at ₹294.20 per share, reflecting a surge of 1% from the previous closing price. The stock has registered a fall of 4.5% over the past month. While over the year it has registered a surge of 10.94%.

Conclusion

Wipro Ventures continues to strengthen its role in the global startup ecosystem through strategic investments and collaborations. With its latest $200 million commitment, Wipro aims to drive innovation, expand its technological reach, and support emerging enterprises in delivering transformative solutions.

Curious about your SBI SIP returns? Get accurate estimates of your investment growth using our SBI SIP Calculator and stay ahead of your financial goals.

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.

Paytm Partners with Perplexity to Enhance AI-Driven Digital Services

Paytm has joined forces with Perplexity to integrate AI-powered intelligence into its platform, bringing real-time, reliable information to millions of Indian consumers. Perplexity, the world’s first answer engine, provides fast and accurate responses with trusted sources, revolutionising the way users access financial assistance and digital information. This collaboration is set to transform mobile payments by embedding AI-driven insights directly into the Paytm app.

AI Integration for Smarter Financial Decisions

As India’s digital economy continues to expand, the demand for instant and reliable information is growing. Whether managing finances, tracking market trends, or making everyday decisions, consumers require real-time insights. Paytm is addressing this need by integrating AI-powered search into its platform, allowing users to ask questions in their local language and receive precise answers. This innovation not only enhances digital literacy but also empowers users to make informed financial decisions seamlessly.

Driving Inclusion Through AI Technology

Paytm’s partnership with Perplexity aligns with its broader vision of leveraging technology to drive financial inclusion and innovation. By making AI-driven information accessible to crores of Indians, this collaboration strengthens the role of digital services in everyday life. The initiative reinforces Paytm’s commitment to technological advancements, ensuring that AI becomes a core component of India’s evolving digital landscape.

Paytm CEO on This Partnership

“AI is transforming the way people access information and make decisions. With Perplexity, we are bringing the Power of AI to Millions of Indian Consumers, making knowledge and financial services more seamless and accessible,” said Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO – Paytm.

Paytm Share Performance

As of February 27, 2025, at 1:22 PM, Paytm share price traded at ₹725.30 per share, reflecting a decline of 1.27% from the previous day’s closing price.

Conclusion

The integration of Perplexity’s AI-powered answer engine into the Paytm app marks a significant advancement in digital services. By providing real-time, reliable financial insights, this partnership is set to reshape how Indian consumers interact with technology, making AI an integral part of their daily lives.

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.

Axis Bank Seek to Sell Majority Stake in NBFC Arm Axis Finance

As per news reports, Axis Bank is considering selling a majority stake in its NBFC unit, Axis Finance Ltd. The bank is working with an adviser to review its options and may seek a valuation between $900 million and $1 billion. However, discussions are still ongoing and no final decision has been made.  

Reason for the Sale

Axis Bank is making this move to follow the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) rules on how banks should manage their subsidiaries. Earlier, the bank planned to list Axis Finance publicly, but now it is considering a private sale as it may get a better price. Investment bank Morgan Stanley has been hired to find a buyer.  

Axis Bank’s Support to Axis Finance

Axis Finance has grown with the help of funds from Axis Bank. The most recent funding was ₹300 crore in the 2024 financial year. Axis Bank also provides ₹2,050 crore in financial support and manages its operations. Axis Finance offers loans for businesses, properties and other collateral-based loans.  

Impact on the NBFC Sector

Shadow banks like Axis Finance provide loans to people who may not qualify for regular bank loans due to low income or lack of credit history. These loans often have higher interest rates which can increase the risk of defaults. The outcome of this sale could affect investor confidence and impact the NBFC sector.

Share Price Performance 

As of February 27, 2025, at 9:45 AM, the shares of Axis Bank Ltd were trading at ₹1,017.15 per share, reflecting a surge of 0.80% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a profit of 7.28%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹1,339.65 per share, while its low is ₹933.50 per share.

Conclusion

Axis Bank’s potential stake sale in Axis Finance could reshape its business strategy while aligning with RBI norms. The decision may impact investors and the NBFC sector, but no final decision has been made yet.

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.