Front-month Brent oil futures extend gains after record monthly rise in March
Oil prices are climbing again. Brent crude futures are extending a strong March rally. Middle East tensions are keeping markets on edge. Reports suggest the US and Iran might be nearing a peace deal. However, ongoing attacks and threats to energy assets maintain supply concerns. Even if the conflict ends, infrastructure damage could keep supplies […]
FAR from Ideal: FPI buying of G-Secs falls sharply in FY26
Foreign investors bought fewer Indian securities in FY26. Outflows increased as West Asia conflict escalated. Economists predict muted flows in FY27 due to the Gulf conflict and a weaker rupee. Concerns over government finances also impacted sentiment. A major trigger like bond index inclusion is needed for significant inflows.
Global Market Today | Asian stocks jump on Iran war offramp, oil steady
Asian stocks rallied as optimism grew that the war in Iran may be nearing an end, boosting investor confidence. The dollar fell and Treasuries extended gains as President Trump suggested a resolution within weeks. Markets are now shifting focus to policymakers’ responses to elevated energy costs and supply disruptions.
FII exodus hits record Rs 1.6 lakh crore in FY26 despite strong DII cushion
Foreign investors pulled out over ₹1.6 lakh crore from Indian stocks in FY26. This was the highest ever withdrawal. Domestic funds stepped in with a record ₹8.5 lakh crore. This inflow provided strong support against the foreign investor exits. Indian markets faced challenges from global events and currency depreciation.
Rupee tops Asia’s worst performers list with 9.9% slide in FY26
The Indian rupee ended FY26 as Asia’s weakest currency against the US dollar. It depreciated by 9.88% due to significant foreign investor withdrawals and strong global dollar demand. The Reserve Bank of India intervened to stabilize the rupee. The Japanese yen also saw a decline. The Malaysian ringgit emerged as the top performer.
Rupee seen sliding to 100 per dollar as oil prices surge
India’s rupee faces potential record lows against the dollar, possibly exceeding 100, if the Iran war escalates. Analysts warn that elevated oil prices will worsen inflation and the current-account deficit, while central bank measures may only offer temporary respite. Market pricing suggests further losses are likely.
RBI caps loans for purchase of shares, securities at Rs 1 crore
The Reserve Bank of India has capped loans for share purchases at ₹1 crore per borrower across the banking system, with IPO and ESOP funding limited to ₹25 lakh. These measures aim to curb speculative borrowing and reduce credit risk for banks.
Risk off! Banks opting to lend to prime customers
Banks are now favouring borrowers with top credit scores. This shift reflects caution in lending. New customers are also getting fewer loans. Despite this, the overall credit market is improving. Asset quality is better. Gold loans are seeing a surge in volume and value. They now lead retail lending.
Corp insurance premiums fall up to 80% this season
Corporate insurance premiums are falling sharply this renewal season. Property and commercial lines are witnessing steep declines. Intense competition and increased underwriting capacity are driving these price drops. Experts warn this trend could impact industry profitability. Buyers are benefiting from lower costs across various insurance segments. This market softness is unprecedented, affecting all business lines.
Two companies file IPO papers with Sebi
Two Gujarat-based companies have submitted draft IPO papers to Sebi. Surat’s Cosmic PV Power plans to raise ₹640 crore through a fresh issue and OFS. Vadodara’s Gujarat Victory Forgings has also filed for an IPO, comprising a fresh issue and an offer for sale.