Opportunities in smallcap and midcap stocks increasing: WhiteOak’s Trupti Agrawal

WhiteOak Capital’s Trupti Agrawal says stabilising earnings and normalised valuations have improved risk-reward in broader markets. Small and mid caps, after sharp corrections, offer selective alpha as fundamentals hold up. Private financials, consumer discretionary and healthcare remain promising from a bottom-up perspective.

European shares close eighth month of gains on earnings lift; credit fears hit banks

European shares hit a record high, marking their longest monthly winning streak since 2012-2013, buoyed by positive corporate updates. However, heavyweight banks experienced a significant decline due to concerns over private credit markets and potential AI disruptions. Defensive sectors like healthcare and food and beverage saw gains as investors sought stability.

Oil prices rise more than 2% as US and Iran extend talks

Oil prices climbed on Friday as traders anticipated supply disruptions. Nuclear talks between the United States and Iran have yet to reach an agreement. Brent crude futures settled at $72.48 a barrel, and U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude finished at $67.02 a barrel. Both benchmarks are on track for weekly gains. Uncertainty prevails, with fear […]

Gold nears one-month high, set for seventh straight monthly rise

Gold surged to a near one-month high, nearing its seventh consecutive monthly gain. Geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning U.S.-Iran nuclear talks and potential military action, fueled a flight to safety. Lower U.S. Treasury yields further bolstered bullion’s appeal. Meanwhile, China’s gold imports saw a significant jump, indicating strong consumer demand.

Bad Memories of Another Day for Lenders as Bihar Moves to Regulate Microloans

Bihar’s new microfinance law could stall the sector’s rebound. The state assembly passed a bill regulating money lending, a move that may push up loan defaults, echoing issues seen in other states. Lenders are prioritizing borrower engagement to curb repayment delays, and the industry aims to reassure borrowers while safeguarding asset quality.

IIFL Home Finance inks $300 million loan pact with ADB

IIFL Home Finance has secured a $300 million loan from the Asian Development Bank to expand affordable housing lending for low-income families, with a special emphasis on women. A portion of the funds will back green-certified, energy-efficient homes, helping address India’s substantial housing shortage and extending homeownership to underserved communities nationwide.