India and Russia Deepen Investment Ties with 6 New Strategic Projects

In a significant step towards strengthening economic relations, India and Russia have jointly agreed to initiate 6 new strategic projects aimed at enhancing bilateral investment cooperation. This development was part of the 8th session of the India-Russia Working Group on Priority Investment Projects (IRWG-PIP), convened on 9 April in New Delhi. The session, held under the aegis of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation, showcased the growing alignment between the two nations in sectors of mutual economic interest.

Strategic Projects and Protocol Signing

The session was co-chaired by Amardeep Singh Bhatia, Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and Vladimir Ilichev, Deputy Minister of the Ministry for Economic Development of the Russian Federation. A comprehensive protocol was signed, outlining collaborative ventures of strategic importance across key sectors. These initiatives are expected to bolster mutual investments, deepen sectoral collaboration, and accelerate economic engagement. The protocol also included a review of outcomes from the previous (7th) session, ensuring continuity and progress in the bilateral investment agenda.

India-Russia Investment Forum 2025

Running parallel to the working group session, the 2nd edition of the India-Russia Investment Forum was held in association with Invest India, the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the Russian Ministry for Economic Development. The forum served as a vibrant platform for engagement, drawing participation from over 80 Indian and Russian entities, including entrepreneurs, financial institutions, cargo companies, business chambers, and researchers. The diverse representation highlighted the broad-based interest in deepening economic collaboration between the two nations.

Conclusion

The outcomes of the 8th IRWG-PIP session and the India-Russia Investment Forum underscore a shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation. With six new strategic projects now in the pipeline, both countries are poised to explore new frontiers in investment and trade, reinforcing their long-standing partnership on a firm economic foundation.

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

JSW Energy Finalises Acquisition of 4.7 GW Renewable Energy Portfolio from O2 Power

Strategic Expansion Through Acquisition

JSW Neo Energy Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of JSW Energy, has officially completed the acquisition of O2 Power Midco Holdings Pte. Limited and O2 Energy SG Pte. Limited, along with their subsidiaries. This acquisition, valued at approximately ₹12,468 crore, marks JSW Energy’s largest renewable energy deal to date. The acquired assets, developed by O2 Power—a venture backed by EQT and Temasek—comprise both operational and in-development projects across seven states in India.

With this acquisition, JSW Energy’s installed capacity has risen to 12,212 MW, of which renewable energy now constitutes 6,554 MW, accounting for 54% of its total capacity. Of the acquired 4.7 GW, 2,259 MW is projected to be operational by June 2025, generating an estimated EBITDA of ₹1,500 crores. The remaining capacity is expected to be developed by June 2027, elevating annualised EBITDA to ₹3,750 crores.

Diversified Energy Assets and Financial Synergies

The newly acquired platform includes 4,100 MW of utility-scale projects and 596 MW for commercial and industrial use. A significant portion of the capacity—3,722 MW—is already secured under Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with high-credit-quality clients, while 974 MW awaits finalised agreements. The asset base offers a diverse mix, including 1.8 GW of solar, 0.5 GW of wind, 1.6 GW of hybrid, and 0.9 GW of firm and dispatchable renewable energy (FDRE) or round-the-clock (RTC) solutions.

 

JSW Energy emphasised that the transaction supports its long-term strategy of value-accretive growth and competitive capital allocation. The company expects to derive operational efficiencies and improved returns by leveraging favourable financing and strategic synergies. The acquisition also includes grid connectivity for an additional 900 MW, enabling further scalability.

JSW Energy Share Performance 

As of April 11, 2025, at 10:30 AM, JSW Energy share price is trading at ₹487.25 per share, reflecting a surge of 1.03% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 5.16%.

Conclusion

With the successful acquisition of O2 Power’s expansive renewable platform, JSW Energy has not only advanced its target of achieving 20 GW of power generation capacity ahead of schedule but has also fortified its position as a leading player in India’s energy transition. The deal aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable, diversified, and value-driven growth.

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.

India Achieves Record-Breaking $820 Billion in Exports for 2024–25

India has recorded its highest-ever exports of goods and services in the financial year 2024–25, crossing the $820 billion mark. This represents a nearly 6% growth compared to $778 billion in 2023–24, achieved despite widespread global economic challenges

Resilience Amid Global Trade Headwinds

India’s export sector has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing $820 billion in total exports for the fiscal year 2024–25. This marks an approximate 6 per cent rise from $778 billion recorded in 2023–24, as per the latest statement from the commerce ministry. The announcement came during a high-level meeting led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, where exporters and industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the shifting global trade landscape.

Despite facing ongoing global economic uncertainties, including the Red Sea crisis, the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict affecting the Gulf region, and weak demand from developed nations, Indian exporters managed to outperform expectations. February marked the fourth consecutive month of negative growth in exports, underlining the adverse global conditions. However, the overall annual performance still reflected resilience and adaptability.

Sectoral Performance and Government Engagement

During the meeting, the ministry disclosed that merchandise exports between April and February of the 2024–25 fiscal year amounted to $395.63 billion, marginally higher than $395.38 billion during the same period the previous year. Meanwhile, services exports saw a notable increase, estimated at $354.90 billion in April–February 2024–25, compared to $311.05 billion in the prior fiscal period.

Export promotion councils and industry bodies presented their sector-specific concerns and emphasised the need for proactive government support in addressing global trade disruptions. The ministry assured them of its commitment to fostering a favourable trade environment and enabling exporters to navigate challenges effectively.

Conclusion

India’s export growth in 2024–25 stands as a testament to the country’s trade resilience amid turbulent global conditions. With a record-breaking performance led by strategic government engagement and industry cooperation, the export sector remains poised for sustained momentum as the nation continues to strengthen its position in the global marketplace.

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. 

BHEL Share Price Surges on Signing MoU with Nuovo Pignone for Fertiliser Sector Projects

In a strategic move to expand its footprint in India’s industrial equipment sector, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nuovo Pignone International s.r.l. a renowned international engineering firm. This 10-year agreement signifies a major development in BHEL’s efforts to address compressor train revamp opportunities within the country’s fertiliser sector. The partnership underscores BHEL’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities by collaborating with globally reputed entities, without forming a new joint venture or exchanging equity.

Scope and Structure of the Partnership

The essence of the agreement lies in a collaborative business model where BHEL will act as the lead bidder for identified projects in the Indian fertiliser industry, while Nuovo Pignone International will serve as the nominated vendor. The MoU clearly defines the responsibilities of each party without the formation of a new legal entity, ensuring a streamlined approach to execution. Importantly, no upfront consideration has been exchanged, and each organisation will execute its defined scope of work.

Notably, the agreement does not involve related party transactions, and neither the promoter group nor any associated entities have an interest in the international partner. The ten-year duration of the MoU, effective from 9 April 2025, provides a substantial window for the companies to explore and execute targeted projects.

Strategic Implications and Market Impact

The collaboration is anticipated to yield tangible benefits, particularly in terms of market share expansion for BHEL within the renovation and modernisation (R&M) segment of the fertiliser sector. Through this alliance, BHEL is positioned to capture a significant share—approximately 50% in financial terms—of the compressor revamp market in India. This initiative aligns with the company’s broader objective to increase its competitiveness and capabilities in capital-intensive industrial projects.

By leveraging the technological and engineering prowess of Nuovo Pignone, BHEL can deliver enhanced value to its clients while simultaneously establishing itself as a dominant player in the sector. The partnership is strategically crafted to ensure mutual growth, operational efficiency, and long-term market relevance.

BHEL Share Performance 

As of April 11, 2025, at 9:30 AM, BHEL share price is trading at ₹216.14 per share, reflecting a surge of 2.04% from the previous day’s closing price.Over the past month the stock has surged by 11.34%.

Conclusion

The MoU between BHEL and Nuovo Pignone International marks a crucial step in strengthening India’s industrial infrastructure, particularly in the fertiliser segment. With defined roles, a decade-long commitment, and no capital restructuring, the alliance offers a mutually beneficial platform to address emerging opportunities and foster technological collaboration. Through this initiative, BHEL reinforces its vision of driving growth through strategic global partnerships.

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.

 

EPFO: Employers Can Now Pay Old EPF Dues via One-Time Demand Draft

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced a new option allowing employers to clear pending EPF dues through a one-time demand draft payment. This measure, outlined in a circular dated April 4, 2025, provides an alternative to the existing online process involving Electronic Challan-cum-Return (ECR) and internet banking.

Background

Employers are typically required to deduct EPF contributions from employees’ salaries and deposit them with the EPFO through ECR filings and online payments. However, technical difficulties or delays in ECR filing have, in some cases, resulted in overdue payments. These delays have also led to penalties and complaints from employees.

Request from Field Offices

Field offices of the EPFO had raised concerns about cases where employers, despite being willing to pay, were unable to remit past dues due to ECR-related issues. In response, the EPFO stated that non-acceptance of dues solely due to missed ECR filings should be avoided.

Eligibility and Process

The option to pay via demand draft is limited to one-time payments of past dues only. Employers cannot use this method for future or recurring payments.

Approval from the Officer-in-Charge of the EPFO regional office is required. The officer must confirm:

  • The payment is a one-time request
  • The employer will not use this route for future remittances

If approved, the employer can submit a demand draft payable to the Regional PF Commissioner (RPFC) at the EPFO’s designated bank.

Required Documentation

Employers must provide:

  • An undertaking stating the nature of the payment
  • A list of affected employees
  • ECR filings along with the payment to ensure employee records are updated

Filing Expectations

Even when paying via demand draft, employers must submit ECR data to maintain accurate records. The EPFO has clarified that this offline payment is only a temporary arrangement and regular payments must continue through ECR and online banking.

Conclusion

The provision enables clearance of old dues through a demand draft under specific conditions, without altering the standard EPF remittance process for ongoing and future contributions.

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.

Adani Group’s $750 Million Bond Issue Sees BlackRock as Top Investor

Funds managed by BlackRock have become the largest subscribers in a $750 million private bond issuance by the Adani Group. The U.S.-based asset manager, which manages around $12 trillion in assets, took on approximately one-third of the total issuance. The bonds have a tenure ranging between 3 to 5 years.

Purpose of the Bond Issue

The funds were raised through Renew Exim DMCC, an offshore entity owned by the Adani group promoter family. The capital will be used to finance the acquisition of ITD Cementation and support other growth-related investments.

Acquisition of ITD Cementation

In 2023, the Adani Group announced the acquisition of a 46.64% stake in ITD Cementation for ₹5,888.57 crore from its promoters. Following this, Renew Exim acquired an additional 20.81% through an open offer at ₹400 per share. ITD Cementation is involved in infrastructure projects such as the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust and ports in Tuticorin, Mundra, and Vizhinjam.

Other Institutional Participants

Apart from BlackRock, 5 other institutional investors, mainly from the U.S. and Europe, also participated in the bond issue. These include funds managed by Sona Asset Management.

Context of the Investment

As per the news reports, the bond issuance comes amid an investigation involving the Adani Group. In November 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted Adani officials in a bribery-related case. This $750 million raise is Adani’s second private dollar bond issuance. In February, the group raised around $200 million for its Australian port operations.

Conclusion

The $750 million bond issue by Adani Group, with BlackRock as its largest investor, is one of the group’s major fundraising efforts in recent times. The funds are for acquisitions and expansion in the infrastructure 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.

Tata Steel’s Dutch Unit Announces 1,600 Job Cuts in €5 Billion Restructure

Tata Steel Nederland (Netherlands), the Dutch arm of Tata Steel Ltd, has announced plans to cut around 1,600 jobs. The cuts will mostly affect management and support functions. This is part of a wider restructuring linked to the company’s plan to transition to greener methods of steel production.

As of 9:49 AM on April 11, Tata Steel share price was trading at ₹134.07, up 5.42%, but down 17.96% over the past six months and 19.38% over the past year.

Consultation Process Begins

A formal Request for Advice has been submitted to the Central Works Council in the Netherlands. Consultations with trade unions are also underway. The restructuring will involve a reorganisation of the company’s local operations, changes to the management board, and a push towards increased automation and standardisation.

€5 Billion Green Steel Investment

The company is preparing for a €5 billion investment in green steel. As part of this, it plans to replace one of the two existing blast furnaces at its IJmuiden plant with a Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) unit and an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) by 2030. This change is to reduce carbon emissions by around 5 million tonnes per year.

Plant Operating Near Full Capacity

The IJmuiden facility, which serves European customers and is located near a deep-sea port, is now operating close to its full capacity of 6.75 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) for FY25. This follows delays in FY24 due to a blast furnace reline. 

As per the reports, despite the recovery in output, the company is facing pressure from high energy costs, supply chain disruptions, and weak demand in the European market.

Talks with the Dutch Government

Tata Steel is currently in discussions with the Dutch government for financial and regulatory support to help fund the decarbonisation efforts. The company has also stated that it will take steps to address environmental concerns raised by local communities.

Conclusion

The job cuts and structural changes are part of a long-term plan to manage costs and shift towards lower-emission steel production.

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.

Edelweiss Mutual Fund Raises Daily Subscription Limit in 7 International Schemes

Edelweiss Mutual Fund has increased the daily subscription limit for seven of its international mutual fund schemes. The change will come into effect from April 17, 2025, and will apply across various transaction modes such as lump sum investments, SIPs, STPs, and switch-ins.

Revised Investment Cap

The daily investment limit has been increased from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh per PAN per day. This change is applicable only to new transactions made on or after April 17, 2025. Transactions recorded before the cut-off time on April 16, 2025, will follow the old limit. Existing systematic investments such as SIPs and STPs will not be affected.

Funds Included Under the Revision

The increased limit applies to the following seven international funds offered by Edelweiss Mutual Fund:

  1. Edelweiss ASEAN Equity Offshore Fund
  2. Edelweiss Greater China Equity Offshore Fund
  3. Edelweiss US Technology Equity Fund of Fund
  4. Edelweiss Emerging Markets Opportunities Equity Offshore Fund
  5. Edelweiss Europe Dynamic Equity Offshore Fund
  6. Edelweiss US Value Equity Offshore Fund
  7. Edelweiss MSCI India Domestic & World Healthcare 45 Index Fund

Regulatory Background

This update follows SEBI’s overseas investment guidelines, which were clarified through a letter dated June 17, 2022. According to the circular, mutual funds are allowed to resume subscriptions in overseas funds up to the limit available as of February 1, 2022.

A notice-cum-addendum dated February 24, 2025, was issued to inform investors about the revised cap and its implementation. The revised limit will be applied based on the transaction reporting date.

Conclusion

The updated limits will allow for higher daily investments in Edelweiss’s international schemes, effective April 17, without altering any existing systematic transactions. All other terms of the respective scheme documents remain unchanged.

Want to plan regular withdrawals? Our SWP Calculator helps you calculate how much you can withdraw while keeping your investments intact. Try it now!

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.

Bharti Hexacom Share Surges on Pausing Infrastructure Transfer to Indus Towers for Fresh Consultation

Bharti Hexacom Limited has announced a temporary pause on its previously approved plan to transfer its passive infrastructure business undertaking to Indus Towers Limited. This decision follows a formal request by Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (TCIL), a public sector undertaking and a key shareholder in Bharti Hexacom.

The original proposal, involving the sale or transfer of mobile and wireless communication towers and associated infrastructure, had been overwhelmingly approved by shareholders. On March 16, 2025, 99.99% of the participating public shareholders voted in favour of the transaction through a postal ballot process.

TCIL Seeks Fresh Review in Line with PSU Requirements

TCIL has now requested Bharti Hexacom to initiate a new process that adheres to the specific procedural and governance requirements applicable to public sector undertakings. As a significant stakeholder, TCIL’s request underscores the importance of alignment with public sector standards in such strategic decisions.

Commitment to Corporate Governance and Transparency

Despite strong shareholder backing and the company’s confidence in the business rationale of the proposal, Bharti Hexacom’s management and Board have chosen to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance. In response to TCIL’s request, the company has decided to put the current proposal in abeyance and commence a fresh exercise in consultation with TCIL.

This move reflects the company’s commitment to maintaining transparency and stakeholder alignment in all major business undertakings.

Indus Towers Duly Notified

Bharti Hexacom has informed Indus Towers Limited about this development. Further updates regarding the renewed process and future steps will be shared with stakeholders as and when they materialise.

Share Price Movement

As of 10:02 AM on April 11, 2025, Bharti Hexacom’s share price was trading at ₹1,511.95risen by 5.55%. In contrast, Indus Towers’ share price was trading at ₹370.05, a 0.15% down.

Conclusion

The development underscores Bharti Hexacom’s focus on stakeholder alignment and regulatory prudence. The outcome of the renewed process will be closely watched.

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.

Urban Company Receives Shareholder Nod for IPO, Scales Down Its Fundraising by Over 80%

Home services startup Urban Company has received formal approval from its shareholders to raise ₹528 crore (approximately $60.6 million) through a fresh issue of equity shares in an upcoming initial public offering (IPO). This decision was reflected in filings made with the Registrar of Companies (RoC).

The company, backed by prominent venture capital firm Accel, plans to list its equity shares on one or more recognised Indian stock exchanges. The listing aims to provide shareholders with a structured marketplace to trade their holdings.

A Sharply Reduced Issue Size

Initially, Urban Company had ambitions of launching a ₹3,000-crore IPO. However, according to the news report, the company has scaled down its fundraising by over 80%, citing volatile market conditions as the key reason for the strategic revision.

This recalibrated approach reflects the caution exercised by startups amidst fluctuating investor sentiment in the Indian equity markets.

Leading Investment Banks on Board

Urban Company has reportedly roped in Kotak Mahindra Capital, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley as the book-running lead managers for the proposed public issue. These institutions are expected to guide the company through the regulatory and investor engagement process.

The company is also expected to file its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) shortly, marking a critical step towards the IPO.

Foray into Quick Commerce with Insta Maids

Urban Company’s IPO announcement comes close on the heels of its entry into the quick commerce space with a new service offering called Insta Maids.

This 15-minute maid booking platform offers essential home services such as utensil cleaning, brooming, mopping, and basic cooking preparations, carried out by hourly-paid gig workers.

With this move, Urban Company seeks to leverage the growing demand for on-demand household services, tapping into a broader consumer base.

Funding History and Valuation

According to data from Tracxn, Urban Company has raised $376 million across 12 funding rounds. Its last significant fundraising was in 2021, when it raised $255 million in a round led by Prosus, Dragoneer, and Wellington Management.

At that time, the company was valued at $2.5 billion. The upcoming IPO is expected to provide existing investors with a partial exit while offering new investors a chance to participate in its growth journey.

Operational Scale and Reach

Urban Company has grown to become a dominant player in the home services and beauty salon marketplace. It currently operates in over 30 Indian cities and has expanded into international markets such as Singapore and Saudi Arabia.

The platform facilitates approximately 2.2 million orders per month, with an average order value of ₹1,290. As of FY24, it claims to have 57,000 partners, who collectively delivered 23 million services over the year.

Conclusion

Urban Company’s IPO journey marks a significant milestone in its business lifecycle. While the fundraising size has been revised in light of external conditions, the company’s long-term strategy remains focused on growth and service diversification.

This development will be closely watched by both institutional investors and market participants as the company moves closer to its listing milestone.

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.