Gold eases as dollar firms; US inflation data awaited
Gold prices slightly decreased to $3,741.71 per ounce as stronger U.S. economic data tempered expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, boosting the dollar. Investors are keenly awaiting U.S. inflation data for further market direction. New tariffs imposed by President Trump also add to the economic landscape, while other precious metals saw mixed movements.
ET poll: Economists predict RBI to hold policy rates steady amid economic uncertainty
Economists anticipate the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to maintain policy rates next week, despite potential for cuts, due to uncertainties from US tariffs and GST impacts. While some advocate for proactive rate cuts given low inflation, the majority prefers retaining options, awaiting clearer signs of economic slowdown and assessing the effects of recent GST […]
India’s REITs surge as SEBI reclassification attracts investor attention
Following SEBI’s reclassification of REITs as equity instruments, these trusts are attracting increased investor interest, particularly from HNIs and institutions. This shift is occurring partly at the expense of listed property developers, as REITs offer stability and lower volatility. The reclassification is boosting REIT values and potentially paving the way for index inclusions.
Asian stocks drop after Wall Street rally stalls
Asian stocks declined amid concerns over high Wall Street valuations, triggered by strong US economic data and mixed signals from Federal Reserve officials regarding potential rate cuts. The dollar strengthened, while the yen weakened. Investors are now closely watching the upcoming inflation report, which will influence the Fed’s future policy decisions, adding to market uncertainty.
Digital payment norms revised, two-factor nod mandatory
The Reserve Bank of India has announced new guidelines for digital payment security. Two-factor authentication will become mandatory for all transactions. Banks can now use biometrics and other methods for verification. Small-value transactions are exempt from strict authentication. These rules aim to boost security and will be effective from April 1, 2026.
Credit card issuances soar to seven-month high in August
Credit card issuances in India reached a seven-month high in August, driven by lenders like HDFC Bank and Axis Bank preparing for increased festive season demand. Nearly 700,000 new cards were issued, bringing the total active cards to 112.3 million.
Maruti Suzuki becomes world’s 8th most valuable carmaker, surpasses Ford, GM and Volkswagen
Maruti Suzuki India has ascended to become the world’s eighth most valuable automaker, surpassing giants like Ford and General Motors. Fuelled by positive investor sentiment following tax reforms and a revamped GST regime, Maruti’s market capitalization has soared to nearly $57.6 billion. The company’s stock has rallied significantly, outperforming the Nifty Auto index, with foreign […]
NBFCs grab a bigger personal loan share amid bank caution
Non-bank lenders are increasing their hold on the personal loan market. Data shows NBFCs’ share in new personal loans has risen significantly. This growth is driven by fintech companies. Meanwhile, banks’ share has decreased. The personal loan market is now over fifteen lakh crore rupees. NBFCs are more flexible, attracting borrowers banks might overlook.
Silver prices soar to record highs in India driven by strong global cues
Silver prices in Delhi soared to a record ₹1.40 lakh per kg, driven by strong global cues. Conversely, gold prices dipped to ₹1,17,370 per 10 grams due to weak retail demand. Futures trading saw silver contracts reach new peaks, while gold also experienced gains, fueled by expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts.
Keep balance sheet strong to fund infra, innovation: FM Sitharaman tells banks
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urged financial institutions to maintain strong balance sheets to fund infrastructure, industry, and MSMEs, while partnering with NBFCs to reach underserved sectors. She highlighted the increasing demand for credit and innovative financial products as India’s economy grows.