Polycab Shares Trade Higher After Signing BSNL Deal Worth over ₹3,000 Crore BharatNet Project

Polycab India Limited has entered into a significant agreement with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) as a Project Implementation Agency (PIA) under the Amended BharatNet Programme. The contract, valued at ₹3,002.99 crore, involves the design, supply, construction, upgradation, operation, and maintenance of BharatNet’s middle-mile network in Bihar Telecom Circle.

Breakdown of the Contract Value

The total project cost includes:

  • Capital Expenditure (Capex): ₹1,549.66 crore
  • Operational Expenditure (Opex) for New Network: ₹929.79 crore
  • Opex for Existing Network: ₹523.53 crore

With this deal, Polycab is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing BharatNet’s infrastructure, aimed at strengthening rural broadband connectivity across Bihar.

Understanding BharatNet and Its Importance

The BharatNet initiative is the Indian government’s ambitious plan to improve digital connectivity in rural areas. The project seeks to expand broadband infrastructure, ensuring seamless internet access for villages across India.

By partnering with BSNL for this initiative, Polycab strengthens its presence in India’s digital infrastructure sector, leveraging its expertise in networking and telecommunications.

Project Timeline and Execution Plan

The agreement outlines:

  • 3-year construction period
  • 10-year maintenance contract (with Opex at 5.5% per annum for the first five years and 6.5% per annum for the next 5 years)

This long-term project highlights Polycab’s continued engagement in large-scale infrastructure development.

Investor Sentiment and Market Reaction

Following the announcement, Polycab’s share price witnessed positive movement.. Shares opened at a level of ₹5,100 and made an intraday high of ₹5,114 on NSE. Large infrastructure contracts like this often bolster revenue visibility and strengthen long-term business fundamentals.

However, it is important to note that while this contract enhances Polycab’s project portfolio, the company’s future stock performance will depend on execution efficiency and market conditions.

Conclusion

Polycab’s ₹3,002.99 crore BharatNet project in Bihar with BSNL marks a significant milestone in India’s digital infrastructure expansion. The deal underscores Polycab’s expertise in telecom networking and its growing presence in large-scale government projects. While investor interest has increased, market participants will closely monitor execution progress and financial impact over the coming years.

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.

Wabag Secures Orders Worth ₹360 Crore: Share Price in Focus

VA Tech Wabag (WABAG), a prominent player in the global water technology sector, has secured significant orders worth approximately ₹360 crore. The contracts include a major Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) project for GAIL (India) Limited and an operations and maintenance (O&M) extension from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), reinforcing Wabag’s expertise in industrial water treatment solutions.

The share price of Wabag was trading higher by 0.56% as of 9:25 AM on March 13, 2025. 

Key Project: ZLD Effluent Treatment Plant for GAIL

Wabag’s primary order, valued at around ₹340 crore, involves designing, building, and operating a 450 cubic metres per hour ultra-filtration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) based effluent recycling system. This project, located at GAIL’s integrated petrochemical complex in Pata, Uttar Pradesh, also includes an evaporator-based ZLD plant and the augmentation of an existing wastewater treatment facility.

The Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) phase is expected to be completed within 24 months, followed by a six-month O&M period. Projects and Development India Limited (PDIL) has been appointed as the Engineer-in-Charge for this initiative. The recovered water from the plant will be utilised as cooling tower make-up water, enhancing water efficiency within GAIL’s operations.

IOCL Extends O&M Partnership with Wabag

In addition to the GAIL project, Wabag has secured a repeat O&M order worth approximately ₹20 crore from IOCL for its Tertiary Treatment Reverse Osmosis (TTRO) plant at the Panipat Refinery in Haryana. This plant, commissioned by Wabag in 2006, was India’s first industrial water recycling facility within the oil and gas sector.

The renewed contract extends Wabag’s engagement for another three years, highlighting the company’s longstanding relationship with IOCL and its consistent operational excellence in managing complex water treatment systems.

Industry Leadership and Client Trust

Commenting on the contract wins, Mr. S. Natrajan, Head of Sales & Marketing, India Cluster at Wabag, expressed his enthusiasm:

“We are delighted to have secured these significant industrial water treatment orders and we sincerely thank GAIL and IOCL for their trust and confidence placed in us. These repeat orders serve as a powerful testament to the strength of our long-standing customer relationships, as well as to our technical expertise and capabilities.”

Wabag has established itself as a global leader in water treatment, having designed and executed over 1,500 municipal and industrial water projects worldwide. Its expertise spans the full lifecycle of water treatment, from design and engineering to long-term operational management.

Conclusion: A Growing Focus on Water Sustainability

As industries increasingly prioritise water conservation and recycling, Wabag’s innovative solutions play a vital role in sustainable water management. The latest project wins reinforce its position as a preferred partner for industrial water treatment, particularly in the energy and petrochemical sectors.

While the impact of these orders on Wabag’s financial performance remains to be seen, they highlight the company’s continued expansion and ability to secure high-value contracts in the evolving water treatment 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.

ICICI Securities to be Suspended from Mar 24: Record Date Fixed, Swap Ratio & Other Details

ICICI Bank and its broking subsidiary, ICICI Securities, have successfully completed the scheme of arrangement for the latter’s delisting. As per an exchange filing, the private lender announced that ICICI Securities Ltd’s equity shares would be suspended from trading on March 24, 2025.

The delisting follows the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal’s (NCLAT) ruling, which dismissed petitions challenging the process. With this development, ICICI Securities is set to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICICI Bank.

Swap Ratio and Record Date for Shareholders

To compensate eligible shareholders of ICICI Securities, ICICI Bank has announced a swap ratio of 67:100. This means that shareholders will receive 67 equity shares of ICICI Bank for every 100 equity shares of ICICI Securities they hold. The record date to determine eligible shareholders has been set for March 24, 2025.

In its regulatory filing, ICICI Securities stated: “The Board of Directors of the company, approved Monday, March 24, 2025, as the ‘record date’ for determining the public shareholders of the company whose Equity Shares will stand cancelled and to whom the new equity shares of ICICI Bank will be issued as per the swap ratio set out in the scheme.”

ICICI Securities Share Price Performance

Following the announcement, shares of ICICI Securities Ltd opened at level of ₹830.20 on March 13, 2025. The company’s market capitalisation currently stands at approximately ₹27,000 crore.

Key stock performance metrics:

  • 52-week high: ₹922.45
  • 52-week low: ₹672.05
  • One-year price change: +10.30%

NCLAT Ruling and Shareholder Reactions

The NCLAT’s dismissal of petitions challenging the delisting process has paved the way for ICICI Bank to consolidate its ownership over ICICI Securities. The appellate tribunal ruled on March 10, 2025, that the appellants had failed to demonstrate any procedural irregularities in the delisting process.

The proposal has seen strong shareholder backing, with:

  • 93.82% of total equity shareholders supporting the move
  • 71.89% of public shareholders in favour

However, a section of retail investors has raised concerns over the share swap ratio, arguing that ICICI Securities has been undervalued in the arrangement. Some minority shareholders had filed objections with the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), citing perceived inequity in the valuation process.

NCLAT, however, dismissed these concerns, stating that speculative litigation by a minority group should not obstruct the broader shareholder consensus and corporate objectives.

What Lies Ahead?

With regulatory approvals in place and shareholder consent secured, ICICI Securities will soon cease to exist as an independent listed entity. The transition will mark a strategic move for ICICI Bank, reinforcing its position in the financial services domain by fully integrating its broking arm.

Shareholders of ICICI Securities are set to receive their ICICI Bank shares post-March 24, 2025, as per the approved swap ratio. Meanwhile, market participants will closely monitor the impact of this consolidation on ICICI Bank’s financials and stock performance in the coming months.

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.

Zydus Lifesciences’ Zynext Ventures Invests in Illexcor for Sickle Cell Therapy

Zynext Ventures USA LLC, the venture capital arm of Zydus Lifesciences, has announced an investment in Illexcor Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company pioneering next-generation oral therapies for sickle cell disease (SCD). This strategic investment highlights Zynext Ventures’ focus on supporting healthcare innovations that address critical unmet medical needs.

A Novel Approach to Treating Sickle Cell Disease

Illexcor is developing a first-in-class oral drug designed to target the underlying cause of SCD. The lead candidate, ILX002, currently in preclinical development, binds to Hemoglobin S to prevent polymerisation and sickling—mechanisms responsible for the disease’s debilitating effects. If successful, this therapy has the potential to modify the disease course and improve the quality of life for patients.

Strategic Alignment with Zydus Lifesciences’ Vision

Commenting on the development, Dr Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, said, “This investment reflects our commitment to patients battling rare and orphan diseases. Recognizing the profound impact of sickle cell disease on patients’ lives, we are pleased to support Illexcor in their efforts to develop a novel therapeutic solution addressing this critical unmet medical need.”

Jay Kothari, Director of Zynext Ventures, said, “This investment is consistent with Zynext Ventures’ objective of identifying and fostering transformative early-stage healthcare innovations. Beyond the financial backing, Zynext Ventures will leverage its unique data analytics and strategic expertise to accelerate Illexcor’s path to delivering this potentially life-changing therapy globally.” 

Advancing Towards Clinical Trials

Andrew Fleischman, CEO of Illexcor Therapeutics, expressed optimism about the partnership, noting that the investment will support the transition of ILX002 into clinical trials later this year. He underscored the drug’s potential impact not only for SCD patients in the United States but also for millions worldwide.

The Growing Need for Effective SCD Treatments

Sickle cell disease affects up to 10 million people globally, significantly impairing life expectancy and quality of life. Despite advancements in treatment, the need for highly effective, disease-modifying oral therapies remains urgent. The collaboration between Zynext Ventures and Illexcor could play a pivotal role in addressing this need.

About Zynext Ventures and Illexcor Therapeutics

Zynext Ventures, the investment arm of Zydus Lifesciences, focuses on early-stage and growth-stage healthcare companies, providing financial and strategic support to drive meaningful advancements in medical science.

Illexcor Therapeutics is dedicated to developing innovative oral treatments for SCD, with ILX002 leading its pipeline as a potential breakthrough therapy for this genetic disorder.

Conclusion 

The investment by Zydus Lifesciences’ Zynext Ventures in Illexcor Therapeutics marks a significant step towards advancing innovative treatments for sickle cell disease. With ILX002 moving towards clinical trials, this collaboration has the potential to address a critical unmet medical need globally. As research progresses, it could pave the way for a transformative oral therapy that improves patient outcomes.

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.

The Drinks Break: Essential Financial Tools for Investors

The drinks break is a crucial time for strategising and recalibrating in cricket, where teams reassess their game plan, investors need to periodically review their financial strategies to ensure they are on the right track towards achieving their financial goals.

A key part of this strategy involves the use of various financial tools and calculators, which can help investors make informed decisions. This blog introduces some essential financial tools and calculators that every investor should consider incorporating into their financial planning process.

Understanding the Financial Toolbox

Just as a 12th man carries various drinks, energisers, towels and coolers midway into a match,, an investor needs a variety of financial tools tailored for different aspects of investing. These range from basic calculators, to sophisticated software that can simulate various investment scenarios. Let’s explore some essential tools that every investor should have in their arsenal.

1. Compound Interest Calculator

Why it’s essential: The power of compounding is one of the most fundamental and potent concepts in investing. It’s the process where the value of an investment increases because the earnings on an investment, both capital gains, and interest, earn interest as time passes.

How it helps: A compound interest calculator can show you how your investments can grow over time, illustrating the potential future value of your investments based on different variables such as the initial investment amount, the rate of return, and the investment period.

2. Retirement Planning Calculator

Why it’s essential: Planning for retirement is a long-term goal for many investors. Starting early and being consistent can significantly impact the size of your retirement fund.

How it helps: This calculator helps you estimate how much you need to save for retirement, considering your current age, retirement age, current savings, and expected retirement lifestyle. It can adjust for inflation and expected rate of return, offering a comprehensive view of your retirement planning needs.

Read about 20 Investing Lessons From the Cricket Ground!

3. Investment Return Calculator

Why it’s essential: Understanding the return on your investments is crucial for evaluating their performance and making informed decisions about future investments.

How it helps: An investment return calculator can help you calculate the return on your investments over a specific period. This tool is invaluable for comparing the performance of different investment options and for assessing whether your current investments are meeting your financial goals.

4. Tax Calculator

Why it’s essential: Taxes can significantly affect your investment returns. Being aware of the tax implications of your investments can help you make more tax-efficient investment choices.

How it helps: A tax calculator can estimate your tax liabilities based on your income, investments, and the applicable tax laws in your jurisdiction. This tool can help you plan for your tax liabilities and find ways to minimise your tax burden through tax-efficient investing.

5. Budget Planner

Why it’s essential: Effective budgeting is the foundation of personal finance. It helps you control your spending, save more, and invest wisely.

How it helps: A budget planner can help you track your income and expenses, set spending limits, and identify areas where you can cut back to increase your savings and investment contributions. It’s a critical tool for managing your cash flow and ensuring that you are living within your means while still working towards your financial goals.

6. Risk Analyser

Why it’s essential: Every investment carries some level of risk, and understanding your risk tolerance is key to building a portfolio that suits your investment goals and comfort level.

How it helps: A risk analyser tool assesses your risk tolerance based on various factors, including your investment horizon, financial goals, and how you react to market volatility. This tool can guide you in selecting the right investment options that align with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Know Why Emergency Funds Are an Absolute Must Have?

Making the Most of Financial Tools

While these tools offer valuable insights, it’s important to use them effectively. Here are some tips for getting the most out of financial calculators and tools:

  • Understand the Assumptions: Financial tools often make certain assumptions about inflation, returns, and other factors. Make sure you understand these assumptions and consider whether they align with your expectations and market realities.
  • Use Multiple Tools: Don’t rely on a single tool for all your financial planning. Different tools can offer varying perspectives, and using multiple tools can provide a more comprehensive view of your financial situation.
  • Keep Your Data Updated: Financial planning is an ongoing process. Regularly update the information you input into these tools to reflect changes in your financial situation, market conditions, and your goals.
  • Combine Tools with Personal Advice: While financial tools are powerful, they cannot fully account for individual circumstances and nuances. Consider combining the insights from these tools with personalised advice from financial advisors.

Conclusion

The right set of financial tools and calculators can be a game-changer for investors. By providing insights into how different factors can affect your financial goals, these tools empower you to make more informed decisions and strategise more effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, integrating these tools into your financial planning process can help you navigate the complexities of investing and achieve your financial objectives. Remember, create a timely break of your investment journey, taking the time to assess and plan can make all the difference in reaching your financial goals.

 

Disclaimer: This article has been written for educational purposes only. The securities quoted are only examples and not recommendations.

7 Out of 11 NPS Equity Funds Outperform Benchmarks; DSP Leads with 13.75% Returns

The National Pension System (NPS) equity funds, classified under Scheme E, have demonstrated strong performance over various time horizons. Not only have these funds surpassed the Nifty 200 TRI benchmark in the long run (3- and 5-year periods), but several have also outperformed large-cap mutual funds. 

Even in the short term—over a one-year period—7 out of 11 pension equity schemes have delivered better returns than the benchmark and large-cap mutual fund average, according to data as of March 7, 2025.

Performance Highlights of NPS Equity Funds

The newly introduced DSP Pension Fund Managers’ equity scheme emerged as the top performer over the one-year period, delivering 13.75% returns—a significant lead over its closest competitor, UTI Pension Fund, which posted 3.61%. In comparison, the Nifty 200 TRI returned just 1%, while the large-cap mutual fund category average was 1.16%.

At the lower end of the spectrum, Max Life Pension Fund (-0.44%) and SBI Pension Funds (-3.59%) posted negative returns, which dragged down the overall performance of equity pension schemes as a category.

NPS Pension Fund Returns Overview (as of March 7, 2025)

 

Equities 1 Year Returns (%) 3 Years Returns (%) 5 Years Returns (%)
DSP Pension Fund Managers 13.75 NA NA
UTI Pension Fund 3.61 13.47 17.38
Kotak Mahindra Pension Fund 3.42 13.18 17.04
HDFC Pension Fund 2.1 12.13 16.43
ICICI Pru Pension Fund 1.36 13.1 17.13
Axis Pension Fund 1.18 NA NA
Tata Pension Fund 1.17 NA NA
LIC Pension Fund 0.86 12.05 16.77
Aditya Birla Sun Life Pension Fund 0.68 11.99 15.76
Max Life Pension Fund -0.44 NA NA
SBI Pension Funds -3.59 10.01 14.75
Nifty 200 TRI (Benchmark) 1 12.17 17.08
Large-cap mutual funds category average 1.16 11.27 14.87

Understanding NPS: A Retirement Investment Avenue

The National Pension System (NPS) is a voluntary retirement savings scheme available to Indian citizens aged between 18 and 70 years. It allows individuals to build a retirement corpus while enjoying tax benefits.

Tax Benefits of NPS Investments

Investing in NPS provides multiple tax advantages under the old tax regime:

  • Section 80C: Deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh on an individual’s own contribution.
  • Section 80CCD(1B): Additional deduction of up to ₹50,000 on voluntary contributions.
  • Section 80CCD(2): Employer contributions are also tax-deductible. The deduction limit is 10% of basic salary and dearness allowance (DA) under the old tax regime, while it is higher at 14% under the new tax regime.

Withdrawals and Tax Implications at Retirement

Upon reaching the age of 60, an NPS investor can withdraw up to 60% of the corpus as a tax-free lump sum. The remaining 40% must be converted into annuities, and the income from annuities is taxed as per the investor’s applicable income tax slab.

Final Thoughts

NPS equity funds have demonstrated strong potential for long-term growth, with certain pension fund managers delivering superior returns compared to both the Nifty 200 TRI and large-cap mutual funds. While short-term performance can fluctuate, these funds serve as a viable option for retirement-focused 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.

Top 5 Tax-Saving Mutual Funds in 2025: ₹5 Lakh Turned Over ₹20 Lakh in Just 5 Years with CAGR of 33%

The stock market has witnessed a notable correction from its September highs, erasing significant gains that mutual funds across categories had accumulated in the post-pandemic period. Benchmark indices such as the Sensex and Nifty have seen a double-digit decline from their peaks, affecting short-term returns across equity mutual funds. This downturn has made selecting the right fund more complex, especially for investors looking to balance risk and reward.

Why Consider Tax-Saving Mutual Funds?

As the financial year approaches its end, many investors seek tax-saving instruments under the Old Tax Regime. For those aiming to build long-term wealth while availing of tax benefits, Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) present a viable option. 

Top 5 Tax-Saving Mutual Funds of 2025

The following ELSS funds have demonstrated exceptional performance, with an initial investment of ₹5 lakh growing significantly over 5 years.

Scheme Name AUM (₹ in Crore) Expense Ratio (%) Invested Amount in ₹ Current Value in ₹ Annualised Return (%)
Quant ELSS Tax Saver  10,118.96 0.5 5,00,000 20,59,600 32.71
Parag Parikh ELSS Tax Saver  4,572.13 0.63 5,00,000 15,15,665 24.82
HDFC ELSS Tax saver  15,413.45 1.09 5,00,000 14,93,578 24.45
BANDHAN ELSS Tax Saver  6,620.13 0.68 5,00,000 14,6,5416 23.98
DSP ELSS Tax Saver  15,985.06 0.72 5,00,000 14,20,779 23.21

Note: Data as of March 11, 2025. 

Conclusion

For investors looking to optimise their tax planning while generating potential long-term capital appreciation, ELSS mutual funds remain a sought-after investment avenue. Despite market corrections, select funds have demonstrated resilience, rewarding investors with substantial growth over time. However, it is essential to consider individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizons before making any decisions.

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.

Maharashtra Budget: CNG, LPG Cars to Get Costlier, High-End EVs Face 6% Tax from April 1

The Maharashtra government has announced an increase in the Motor Vehicle Tax for private CNG and LPG vehicle owners, raising it by 1%. This tax adjustment applies solely to non-commercial vehicles, excluding public transport options such as auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses. The move is expected to impact buyers looking for more economical and eco-friendly fuel alternatives.

High-End Electric Vehicles to Attract 6% Tax

Luxury electric vehicle (EV) owners will also face higher costs, as the state has introduced a one-time 6% tax on EVs priced above ₹30 lakh. This move comes at a time when EV adoption is increasing, and Maharashtra has been a significant proponent of electric mobility. While the rationale behind the tax is revenue generation, it may also impact the demand for premium EVs.

Increased Tax on Construction and Light Goods Vehicles

Apart from private vehicles, the state budget also introduced a 7% tax on vehicles used in construction activities. This is expected to generate approximately ₹180 crore in additional revenue. Additionally, light goods vehicles (LGVs) carrying goods up to 7,500 kg will now be taxed at 7%, bringing in an estimated ₹625 crore for the state’s coffers.

Revised Tax Limits for Motor Vehicles

To further boost revenue, the Maharashtra government has raised the maximum Motor Vehicle Tax limit from ₹20 lakh to ₹30 lakh. This change is projected to generate ₹170 crore in additional tax collections.

Revenue Expectations from the Tax Changes

The combined tax revisions on CNG, LPG, EVs, and commercial vehicles are expected to contribute significantly to Maharashtra’s budget. The government estimates the 1% tax hike on private CNG and LPG vehicles will generate ₹150 crore in the fiscal year 2025-26. Meanwhile, the taxation of LGVs and construction vehicles will add a substantial boost to the state’s revenue.

Conclusion: Implications for Vehicle Buyers

With these new tax regulations coming into effect from April 1, vehicle buyers in Maharashtra may need to reassess their purchase decisions. While the increase in tax on CNG and LPG vehicles remains moderate, high-end EV buyers will face a more significant cost burden.

The state’s decision aligns with its broader fiscal objectives, balancing revenue generation while maintaining incentives for public transport and sustainable mobility options.

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 Share Price Falls; Shruti Shibulal Buys 29.84 Lakh Shares Amid Turmoil

On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the Indian IT sector witnessed a sharp decline, with the Nifty IT index plummeting over 3% as fears of a potential US recession rattled investor sentiment. The decline has now pushed the index into bear market territory, having plunged 22% from its 52-week high of 46,088.90, recorded in December 2024.

A bear market is typically defined as a fall of 20% or more from a recent peak, and the Nifty IT index has now crossed this threshold, reflecting the mounting uncertainty around IT companies’ future growth prospects.

Infosys Share Price Steepest Single-Day Fall 

Among the major IT firms, Infosys bore the brunt of the sell-off, with its share price tumbling 4.70% as of 2:25 PM—marking its steepest single-day decline since January 17, 2025.

The sharp drop in Infosys and other IT stocks is primarily driven by concerns about a potential economic slowdown in the US, which remains the largest revenue-generating market for Indian IT companies. Any downturn in the US economy could significantly impact the sector’s earnings, leading to weaker deal wins and lower growth forecasts.

Outlook on Infosys Weighs on Sentiment

Investor sentiment was further dampened amid concerns about Infosys’ growth prospects, as per news reports. According to news reports, the company’s deal wins in FY25 are expected to be weaker than the previous fiscal year, raising doubts about its near-term revenue trajectory.

As a result, market participants are closely watching Infosys and other IT giants, given their high exposure to global economic conditions and dependence on overseas contracts.

Insider Buying Amid Market Volatility

Despite the prevailing uncertainty and sharp correction in stock prices, Shruti Shibulal, daughter of Infosys co-founder SD Shibulal, purchased 29.84 lakh shares of Infosys through an open market transaction worth ₹494 crore on Tuesday.

As per NSE block deal data, the shares were acquired at an average price of ₹1,657 per share. The large insider purchase has caught the market’s attention, as such transactions often indicate long-term confidence in the company’s fundamentals despite short-term volatility.

Conclusion

The IT sector continues to face macroeconomic headwinds, with concerns over a potential US recession impacting investor sentiment. While the market grapples with weaker deal flows and a bearish trend, insider buying in Infosys has provided a contrasting perspective on long-term prospects. The sector’s performance will likely hinge on global economic trends and corporate earnings updates in the coming months.

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.

Silver Price Jumps Over by ₹500: Check Gold and Silver Rates in Your City on March 12

On March 12, 2025, gold prices traded flat in the international market. Meanwhile, in the domestic market, prices saw a marginal decline. In the international market, gold prices increased by 0.02%, reaching $2,915.92 as of 1:42 PM.

In India, gold prices fell by ₹70 per 10 grams in major cities on March 12, 2025, as of 1:42 PM.

In Mumbai, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹8,625 per gram, while 22-carat gold now costs ₹7,906 per gram. The price for 24-carat gold stands at ₹86,250 per 10 grams.

In Delhi, 22-carat gold is currently priced at ₹78,925 per 10 grams, while 24-carat gold is trading at ₹86,100 per 10 grams.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities on March 12, 2025

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of March 12, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 86,500 79,292
Hyderabad 86,390 79,191
Delhi 86,100 78,925
Mumbai 86,250 79,063
Bangalore 86,320 79,127

Silver Prices in India on March 12, 2025

International silver prices increased by 0.44% to $32.06 on March 12, 2025 as of 1:35 PM. In India, silver prices surged by ₹560 per kg.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

 

City Silver Rate in ₹/kg 
Mumbai 98,700
Delhi 98,530
Kolkata 98,570
Chennai 98,990

Key Takeaways

  • Gold Prices: Both 22-carat and 24-carat gold prices saw a marginal decline in major Indian cities, while international prices recorded slight gains.
  • Silver Prices: Silver prices jumped over by ₹500 per kg in India and rose 0.44% in global 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.