Edelweiss Low Duration Fund Files Draft with SEBI

Edelweiss Mutual Fund has filed a draft with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for its Edelweiss Low Duration Fund, an open-ended debt scheme. The fund will invest in debt and money market instruments, maintaining a Macaulay duration between 6 to 12 months. The fund will be open for subscription for a maximum of 15 days during the NFO period.

It carries a relatively high interest rate risk and moderate credit risk, classified under the Potential Risk Class Matrix (B-III), as per the filing.

Allocation and Strategy

The fund’s asset allocation ranges from 0% to 100% in debt and money market instruments. It will primarily focus on low-duration securities to provide liquidity while aiming for short-term income. 

The scheme will follow the CRISIL Low Duration Debt A-I Index as its benchmark.

Suitability and Risk

The scheme is categorized as low to moderate risk, based on its risk classification. It is positioned for investors seeking short-term income generation with exposure to debt and money market instruments. The Risk-o-Meter places the benchmark’s risk at a similar level.

Fund Structure and Liquidity

The minimum investment amount during the New Fund Offer (NFO) is ₹1,000 per unit. The fund will be available under two plans:

  • Regular Plan (via distributors)
  • Direct Plan (for direct investments)

Units can be purchased, switched, or redeemed daily. The fund aims to process redemptions within three working days.

Expense Ratio and Exit Load

The fund has no exit load. The total expense ratio (TER) is set at up to 2% of the daily net assets, covering fund management, administrative costs, and distribution expenses.

The Edelweiss Asset Management Limited (AMC) will manage the fund. The AMC has filed the draft Scheme Information Document (SID) with SEBI, along with a Due Diligence Certificate confirming regulatory compliance. 

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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.

NFO Alert: Helio Mutual Fund Launches Mid-Cap Fund

Helios Mutual Fund has launched the Helios Mid Cap Fund, an open-ended equity scheme that primarily invests in mid-cap stocks. The New Fund Offer (NFO) period starts on February 20, 2025, and closes on March 6, 2025. 

The fund has a very high risk level and is managed by Alok Bahi.

  • Fund Category: Equity – Mid Cap
  • Benchmark: NIFTY Midcap 150 Total Return Index (TRI)
  • Minimum Investment: ₹5,000
  • Additional Investment: ₹1,000 in multiples of ₹1
  • Riskometer: Very High
  • Exit Load:
    • 1% if more than 10% of units are redeemed within 3 months
    • Nil after 3 months

Objective and Strategy

The fund aims to generate long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity and equity-related securities of mid-cap companies. There is no lock-in period.

The portfolio follows a stock elimination strategy, filtering companies based on eight parameters, including corporate governance, industry potential, and financial stability. The selection process focuses on identifying companies with reasonable growth potential while avoiding businesses that show signs of weak fundamentals.

Asset Allocation and Risk

The scheme’s asset allocation structure is as follows:

  • Mid-cap equity and related instruments: 65%-100%
  • Equity securities Other than Midcap Companies: 0%-35%
  • Debt and money market instruments: 0%-35%

The fund carries a very high risk, given its focus on mid-cap stocks, which are more volatile than large-cap stocks. Investors should consider market fluctuations before investing.

Liquidity and NAV Calculation

Being an open-ended fund, units can be purchased and redeemed on any business day. The Net Asset Value (NAV) will be calculated daily and published on the fund’s official website and the AMFI platform.

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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.

Axis Max Life Introduces STAR ULIP with Dual Benefits

Axis Max Life Insurance has launched STAR ULIP (Smart Term with Additional Returns), a unit-linked, non-participating life insurance plan. The policy combines life insurance coverage with market-linked investment options, allowing policyholders to customize their financial plans based on their risk appetite and long-term goals.

Coverage and Protection

The plan offers protection against accidental death and total permanent disability. Additionally, policyholders can opt for riders that provide extra coverage, including death from all causes, accidental death, and total or permanent disability due to accidents.

An important feature of the plan is its high sum assured multiple, which can go up to 215 times the base annualized premium to help provide financial security in unforeseen circumstances.

Plan Variants

STAR ULIP is available in two variants:

  • Life Secure Variant: Includes a death benefit multiple ranging from 10 to 215 times the annualized premium. Upon maturity, the total fund value is paid out.
  • 3D Life Secure Variant: Includes a lump sum death benefit along with a monthly income benefit, where 20% of the base annualized premium is paid for 10 years. If the policyholder faces death, critical illness, or dismemberment, outstanding premiums are funded up to three times. The total fund value is paid at maturity.

Investment and Flexibility

The policy allows investment in multiple market-linked funds, giving policyholders flexibility in managing their funds. Other features include emergency withdrawals and loyalty additions, which may provide returns up to three times the charges, as per the reports.

The STAR ULIP also includes the 3D Life Secure Variant, which provides coverage for critical illness and dismemberment. In such cases, future outstanding premiums are funded up to three times.

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 Consumer Expands Global Reach with Campa Launch in UAE

Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries, has launched Campa in the UAE at Gulfood 2025, entering into the international market. This expansion follows Reliance’s acquisition of the Campa brand in 2022 and its reintroduction in India in 2023.

As of February 19, 10:33 AM, Reliance Industries Ltd is trading at ₹1,231.45, up ₹6.05 (0.49%) today but down 5.67% over the past month and 16.46% over the past year.

Partnership with Agthia Group

To distribute Campa products in the UAE, RCPL has partnered with Agthia Group, a major food and beverage company in the region. This collaboration is to help the brand establish a presence in the market, targeting both Indian expatriates familiar with Campa and local consumers.

Product Range and Positioning

The initial product lineup includes Campa Cola, Campa Lemon, Campa Orange, and Cola Zero. The brand has undergone a redesign with new packaging while keeping the original flavours. Pricing details have not been disclosed, but RCPL has stated that it aims to keep the products affordable.

Statements from the Companies

Ketan Mody, COO of RCPL, stated “We are excited to enter the UAE market with Campa, a heritage Indian brand founded more than 50 years ago. We are investing for the long term and see great potential for accelerated growth in the region. We have a track record of delivering innovative and global quality products at affordable prices to customers. We are delighted to come together with our partners today to transform the beverage experience for consumers across the UAE.”
Alan Smith, CEO of Agthia Group, said “This iconic brand holds deep nostalgia for many, and we believe it will strongly resonate with the significant Indian expatriate community in the UAE and local consumers alike. This partnership further strengthens Agthia’s diverse beverage portfolio and reinforces our leadership in the region’s dynamic market. With our robust distribution network and market expertise, we’re excited to reintroduce Campa Cola to a new generation of consumers in the UAE.”

Campa’s History and Expansion 

Campa was a popular soft drink brand in India during the 1970s and 1980s before it faded from the market. After acquiring it in 2022, Reliance reintroduced it in India with updated branding. The UAE launch is the first in its expansion beyond India, though there is no official confirmation about further international 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.

Nazara Technologies Increases its Stake in Datawrkz to 55%

Nazara Technologies has increased its ownership in Datawrkz Business Solutions to 55%. This move strengthens Nazara’s presence in the digital and gaming industry while enhancing its advertising capabilities.

Acquisition Details

Nazara Technologies Limited has acquired 14,999 equity shares of Datawrkz Business Solutions Private Limited. This purchase represents a 22% stake in the company, bringing Nazara’s total ownership in Datawrkz to 55%. As a result, Datawrkz will continue operating as a subsidiary of Nazara.

Financial Consideration

The acquisition deal is valued at ₹21 crore. The first instalment of ₹12 crore has already been paid, while the remaining balance will be settled according to the terms outlined in the investment agreement. 

Strategic Purpose

This acquisition aligns with Nazara’s strategy to strengthen its foothold in the digital and gaming ecosystem. The company aims to leverage Datawrkz’s expertise to enhance its business operations and explore new opportunities in the digital advertising space.

About the Companies 

Nazara Technologies Limited is a leading gaming and digital entertainment company with a strong presence across India, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. It specialises in interactive gaming, e-sports and gamified learning, catering to a diverse audience. 

Datawrkz Business Solutions Private Limited- is a digital advertising technology company specialising in programmatic advertising and customer engagement solutions. It helps businesses optimise their digital marketing efforts through data-driven strategies.

Share Performance 

As of February 19, 2025, at 9:30 AM, the shares of Nazara Technologies Ltd are trading at ₹917.55 per share, down 0.18% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the last month, the stock has fallen by 13.78% and over the last year it has decreased by 9.17%. The stock’s 52-week high is ₹1,117 and its 52-week low is ₹591.50 

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.

China’s Scientists Develop Ultra-Hard Hexagonal Diamond

A groundbreaking discovery by Chinese scientists has led to the creation of an artificial diamond that surpasses natural diamonds in strength and heat resistance. This new form, known as hexagonal diamond or lonsdaleite, has long been theorised to be harder than traditional diamonds but has remained difficult to synthesise in the lab. Recent advancements in material science have now made it possible, opening up exciting possibilities for industrial and commercial applications.

Breakthrough in Artificial Diamond Production

Scientists at Jilin University in China have successfully created an artificial diamond that surpasses natural ones in hardness and heat resistance. By heating compressed graphite under precise conditions, they have produced high-quality hexagonal diamonds, a structure known as lonsdaleite. This rare form, typically found in meteorite impact sites, has long been difficult to replicate in laboratories. The newly developed material exhibits remarkable structural integrity, promising advancements in various industries.

Exceptional Strength and Industrial Applications

Tests have shown that the artificial hexagonal diamond boasts a hardness of 155 GPa, significantly exceeding the 100 GPa of natural diamonds. Additionally, it withstands extreme temperatures of up to 1,100°C. These properties make it highly suitable for industrial applications such as cutting, drilling, and high-performance tools. With improved fabrication techniques, this discovery may pave the way for the production of ultra-hard materials with broad commercial potential.

Future Implications and Potential Uses

Beyond industrial applications, this breakthrough offers insights into diamond formation and advanced material engineering. While previous attempts to synthesise hexagonal diamonds have seen limited success, the new method represents a significant step forward. Although primarily intended for industrial use, researchers suggest that these super diamonds could eventually find a place in jewellery, redefining the luxury gemstone market.

Conclusion

The development of high-quality hexagonal diamonds marks a significant scientific achievement. With superior hardness and thermal resistance, these artificial diamonds hold immense potential across multiple industries. As fabrication techniques advance, they may revolutionise both manufacturing and luxury 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.

SEBI Proposes Stricter Financial Disclosure Norms for REITs and InvITs

Understanding REITs and InvITs

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) are investment vehicles that pool funds from investors to invest in income-generating real estate and infrastructure projects, respectively. 

These trusts are listed on stock exchanges, enabling investors to trade shares like regular stocks. They offer an opportunity to invest in large-scale assets without direct ownership, making them attractive to institutional and retail investors alike.

SEBI Proposes Enhanced Financial Disclosures

SEBI’s proposal mandates that REITs and InvITs must present detailed, combined financial statements in their public offer documents, ensuring a comprehensive view of the trust’s financial health. 

Even newly established trusts will be required to disclose consolidated financials, including linked entities, to provide investors with greater clarity. Additionally, for follow-up offerings, they must submit fully audited financial statements instead of summarised versions.

To further tighten transparency, SEBI proposes eliminating the use of condensed financial statements, which currently allow for selective disclosure. Instead, trusts will need to provide complete financial reports, ensuring that investors have access to the full picture of their investments.

Ongoing Compliance and Reporting

After listing, REITs and InvITs will have to comply with stricter reporting requirements. SEBI suggests transitioning from semi-annual to quarterly reporting on the utilisation of funds raised. This move is aimed at keeping investors informed about how their money is being deployed.

Moreover, SEBI plans to introduce mandatory disclosure of the net borrowing ratio, which will indicate the trust’s level of debt relative to its assets. This requirement is expected to help investors assess financial risks associated with REITs and InvITs, thereby enabling more informed decision-making.

Conclusion

SEBI’s proposed amendments aim to enhance financial transparency and safeguard investor interests. By enforcing stricter disclosure norms and increasing the frequency of financial updates, SEBI seeks to build greater trust in REITs and InvITs. 

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. 

SEBI Amends Mutual Fund Regulations For NFO Funds Deployment

Timely Deployment of NFO Funds

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has set a clear timeline for deploying funds raised through NFOs. According to a notification issued on February 14, mutual fund schemes must utilise the collected funds within a period specified by SEBI. 

This decision follows an earlier board resolution in December, which required fund managers to allocate NFO funds according to the scheme’s asset allocation plan, typically within 30 days.

If the funds are not deployed within the prescribed timeframe, investors will be allowed to exit the scheme without incurring an exit load. This measure discourages AMCs from collecting excessive funds during NFOs, as investors can always opt for open-ended schemes at the prevailing Net Asset Value (NAV).

Stress Testing and Employee Investment in Mutual Funds

In a move to enhance transparency, SEBI has mandated the disclosure of stress testing for mutual fund schemes. This requirement ensures that investors have clearer insights into a scheme’s ability to withstand market fluctuations.

Additionally, SEBI has introduced a provision requiring AMCs to invest a portion of their employees’ remuneration in mutual fund schemes. The percentage of investment will depend on the employee’s designation and role within the AMC, reinforcing accountability within the industry.

Conclusion

The revised mutual fund regulations reflect SEBI’s commitment to fostering greater trust and transparency in the industry. By enforcing stricter deployment timelines and mandating stress testing disclosures, these measures seek to protect investor interests while promoting efficiency in fund management.

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.

L&T Acquires Full Ownership of L&T Special Steel with ₹170 Crore Deal

Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) has acquired the remaining 26% stake in L&T Special Steels and Heavy Forgings Private Limited (LTSSHF) from Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). This transaction makes LTSSHF a fully owned subsidiary of L&T. 

Purpose and Impact of the Acquisition

Previously, L&T owned 74% of LTSSHF. With full ownership, L&T aims to expand LTSSHF’s capabilities beyond the energy sector by making additional investments and improving operational efficiency. This move is expected to enhance the company’s market reach and utilization.

Financial and Regulatory Aspects

L&T purchased 1,47,31,60,000 equity shares and 1,66,92,00,000 preference shares, along with a secured loan from NPCIL, for a total of ₹170 crore.

Company Background and Financial Performance

LTSSHF, founded in 2009, makes heavy forgings using advanced equipment, including a 125-ton Electric Arc furnace and a powerful 9000-ton hydraulic press. It serves industries such as nuclear power, petrochemicals and heavy engineering. The company’s revenue has shown consistent growth with ₹503.99 crore in FY 2023-24, ₹361.47 crore in FY 2022-23, and ₹263.11 crore in FY 2021-22.

About L&T 

Larsen & Toubro is a leading Indian multinational company specializing in engineering, construction and technology. It operates across various sectors, including infrastructure, defence and heavy engineering. Known for its innovation and large-scale projects, L&T plays a crucial role in industrial development, both in India and globally.

L&T Share Performance 

As of February 19, 2025, at 10:55 AM, the shares of L&T are trading at ₹3,256.95 per share, reflecting a surge of 1.14% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a loss of 9.35%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹3,963.50 per share and its low is ₹3,175.05 per share.

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.

SEBI Revokes Registration of 19 Foreign Venture Capital Firms Over Compliance Issue

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has revoked the registrations of 19 Foreign Venture Capital Institutions (FVCIs) after finding that they had violated capital market regulations. Among the entities affected are Blackstone Capital (Singapore) and Axis Capital (Mauritius).

Non-Compliance with Reporting Obligations

SEBI’s investigation revealed that these institutions had become defunct and were no longer registered in their respective jurisdictions. Furthermore, they had ceased publishing their quarterly reports.

It was observed that none of these firms had submitted data on the SEBI Intermediaries (SI) portal for 4 consecutive quarters, from March 2023 to December 2023. Additionally, 6 entities had never filed any reports, while four had last submitted data as far back as the 2012–13 financial year.

Lack of Response to Regulatory Notices

The market regulator also found that the firms had failed to update their ineligibility status. Despite multiple attempts to communicate, SEBI was unable to establish contact with any of the entities. Show-cause notices were issued, but none of the firms responded to them.

Due to their prolonged non-compliance and failure to adhere to regulatory norms, SEBI decided to cancel their registrations. The move highlights the regulator’s strict stance on enforcing transparency and compliance in the capital markets.

Of the 14 entities with known strike-off dates, 11 had been inactive for over five years, and 3 had been inactive for between 10 months and three years. These 19 entities were issued show-cause notices by Sebi in December 2024, but none responded.

Some Entities with Revoked FVCI Registrations are

Axis Capital Mauritius
Axis India Infrastructure Holdings
Blackstone Capital Partners (Singapore) VI FVCI Pte Ltd
P6 Asia Holding Investments (Cyprus) Ltd
Pequot India Mauritius IV Ltd
Omega FVCI Investments Pte Ltd
IFCI Sycamore India Infrastructure Fund
Blackstone Family Investment Partnership (Singapore) VI-ESC FVCI
Summit Partners India Venture Capital Investments

Conclusion

SEBI’s action against these FVCIs underscores its commitment to maintaining regulatory integrity in the Indian capital markets. The failure of these firms to comply with essential reporting obligations and respond to regulatory inquiries led to their deregistration, reinforcing the importance of transparency and compliance in the financial 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.