Asian stocks start cautiously after Fed holds rate
A regional gauge fell 0.4% and equity-index futures for the US were flat in early Asian trading. Chipmakers led the charge in the US session as Bloomberg News reported that the Trump administration planned to rescind Biden-era curbs for AI-related exports. The Nasdaq Golden Dragon China Index dropped the most in almost three weeks Wednesday.
Fed keeps rate unchanged, flags inflation and growth concerns
The unanimous decision to stand pat will keep rates at 4.25% to 4.5%. Rates have been there since December after a series of cuts in the second half of 2024.
India-UK FTA boosts textile sector, shares surge by 5-12%
The landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) eliminates existing tariffs on textile trade between the two countries. As per an Elara Capital report, textiles and apparel trade is at $1.42 billion, with India exporting nearly the entire quantum.
NBFCs raise concerns over planned co-lending rules
Non-bank lenders in Mumbai plan to address the Reserve Bank of India regarding proposed co-lending rule changes. The new model suggests joint loan disbursement, replacing the current assignment practice. NBFCs worry about increased risk and liquidity strain due to longer loan holding periods. Banks are also concerned about dual default reporting affecting borrower trust.
RBI’s dividend payment to govt for FY25 set to beat estimates, could be 50% higher than FY24
The Reserve Bank of India’s surplus transfer to the government for the last fiscal year is projected to reach ₹3 lakh crore, exceeding earlier estimates. This surge is attributed to robust dollar sales, increased foreign exchange gains, and higher interest income. The substantial dividend could help the Centre reduce its fiscal deficit and inject liquidity […]
Why are retail investors betting on beaten-down stocks despite market weakness?
Total retail holding in Central Depository Services (CDSL) went up to 51.4% in the fourth quarter from 42.3% in the October-December quarter, making it one of their biggest bets. Shares of CDSL, which had gone up 22.4% in the third quarter, had fallen nearly 31% in the March quarter
How will India-UK FTA affect Indian alcobev stocks?
Under the new FTA, India has agreed to cut import duties on Scotch, whisky and gin from 150% to 75% with immediate effect, with a further reduction to 40% over the next 10 years. This means that imported spirits, especially premium Scotch, will become much cheaper for Indian consumers.