Oil Price Today (June 4): Crude oil slips as Israel-Lebanon ceasefire fuels Iran war peace hopes. What’s next?
Oil prices dipped as a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon sparked hopes for broader diplomatic progress, potentially easing U.S.-Iran tensions. The U.S. House also passed a resolution limiting President Trump’s military action against Tehran. Despite these developments, analysts warn that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could significantly impact global supply for years.
RBI calls off T-Bill auction on higher-yield demand
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) withdrew its ₹12,000 crore treasury bill auction for 182-day and 364-day maturities, reportedly due to high yield bids. This action supported bond prices, with the benchmark 10-year government bond yield falling. The RBI’s decision may also be influenced by the government’s substantial cash balance following a record dividend payment.
India plans to scrap capital gains tax on FPI investments in government securities
India is set to eliminate capital gains tax for foreign portfolio investors on government securities to boost overseas capital inflows. This move, approved via an ordinance, aims to counter economic impacts from the Iran war and address negative foreign portfolio flows and rupee depreciation. Further measures are anticipated to enhance market attractiveness for foreign investment.
IIFL Finance nets $500 million in overseas bond sales
IIFL Finance successfully raised $500 million through international dollar bonds, marking the first such issuance from India since January. Priced at 7.6%, the 3.25-year bond attracted significant investor interest despite geopolitical volatilities. Proceeds will fund lending to economically weaker sections, including MSMEs and gold loans.
Deficient monsoon risk rises, but macro impact on GDP expected to stay muted
India’s agricultural output and inflation face heightened concerns as the India Meteorological Department forecasts a stronger probability of deficient rainfall. However, the impact on agriculture GVA and overall GDP growth is expected to be limited due to a weakening correlation with rainfall over the past two decades, attributed to factors like increased irrigation and a […]
RBI denies report of $12 billion gold sale, says holdings unchanged
The Reserve Bank of India has refuted claims of selling gold reserves. Reports suggested a sale of approximately $12 billion in gold. The RBI stated its physical gold stock remains unchanged at 880.52 tonnes. These reports are inaccurate, according to the central bank. The RBI’s stance clarifies its position on its gold holdings.
US plans additional 12.5% tariff; India says talks on Section 301 probes ongoing
The US Trade Representative has proposed an additional 12.5% duty on 54 countries, including India, over alleged failure to restrict imports of goods produced with forced labor. This move, seen as a pressure tactic, comes as India and the US are negotiating an interim trade deal.
Manufacturing sector emerges as key structural play amid global supply chain shift
Investors can explore manufacturing mutual funds for portfolio diversification. The sector shows strong potential driven by domestic demand and global supply chain realignments. Experts suggest a staggered investment approach over six months. The Nifty Manufacturing Index offers distinct exposure compared to the Nifty 50. This theme is poised for growth, supported by policy and evolving […]
Rupee falls amidst gulf tensions and rising oil prices
The Indian rupee weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday. This decline was driven by escalating tensions in the Gulf region and a subsequent rise in oil prices. The rupee touched 95.70 against the dollar. Higher oil prices impacted the currency. Peace talks between Tehran and Washington showed little progress. The government is finalizing measures […]
IT stocks snap three-day rally, plunge over 5% in sharpest fall in nearly four months
Indian IT stocks experienced their steepest single-day fall in nearly four months, plunging over 5% as concerns about AI’s impact on revenue streams resurfaced. The Nifty IT index slumped, dragging the broader market lower, with analysts citing immense pressure and uncertainty driving liquidation. While the sector’s recovery is questioned, significant further downside is not anticipated.