Oil slips after Trump says US will help free ships stranded in Strait of Hormuz

Oil prices dipped as President Trump announced efforts to free ships in the Strait of Hormuz. However, the absence of a US-Iran peace deal continues to support prices above $100. Negotiations remain stalled, with both nations holding firm on their demands. OPEC+ plans a modest output increase, but disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz may […]

Companies give Bond Street a pass, take bank route for funds

Corporate borrowers are increasingly favoring bank loans over bond issuances as rising capital market yields diminish the cost advantage of bonds. Spreads between bank lending rates and bond yields have significantly compressed, particularly for higher-rated entities, leading to a notable shift in fundraising strategies.

Global Market Today: Asian stocks advance on tech, dollar edges lower

Asian stocks opened higher, with South Korea leading gains, while crude oil fluctuated amid mixed Middle East signals. Strong tech earnings supported US equity futures, which traded with caution after record highs. Markets reacted optimistically to President Trump’s statement on guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz, though Iran issued a warning.

Short covering fuels April rally, stock-specific action to continue in May

Analysts are identifying stock-specific opportunities for May following April’s short-covering rally. Bullish bets include Sun Pharma, Adani Ports, ONGC, Sona BLW, Bharti Airtel, ITC, and Kotak Mahindra Bank, with specific price targets and stop-losses. Conversely, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles shows bearish sentiment with a potential downside target.

Third party premiums take the wheel in motor cover growth

TP premiums rose 9.3% in FY26, compared with 9% growth in OD, taking overall motor insurance expansion to about 9% on an estimated base of ?1.08 lakh crore. This contrasts with FY24, when OD grew a stronger 17.4% against roughly 10% for TP, supported by robust vehicle sales and pricing improvements. In FY25, OD grew […]

Resurgent in April, can bulls defy ‘Sell in May’ maxim?

Indian stock markets may see continued gains in May. Investors should resist the urge to sell. While a repeat of April’s strong rally is unlikely, key indices have historically performed well in May. Moderate, stock-specific moves are expected. Elevated oil prices and a strong dollar could limit significant upside.

Tax shadow over charitable trusts with ‘profit’ motive

Three top-notch hospitals in Mumbai and a famous international spiritual organisation-all functioning as charitable trusts-have been denied Income tax (I-T) exemption on the grounds that they were carrying out commercial activities.

US Stock Market: Traders grapple with tail risk as stocks regain highs

US equities are nearing previous highs despite ongoing concerns about higher energy prices stemming from the Iran conflict. While tech earnings and Fed decisions fueled investor optimism, the persistent rise in oil prices continues to pose a risk of inflation and potential interest rate hikes, particularly in Europe.