IRCTC, P&G Health, ESAB Among 5 Stocks Trading Ex-Dividend Today

Several dividend-paying stocks, including IRCTC, Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care, AVT Natural Products, ESAB India, and Shivalik Bimetal Controls, will trade ex-dividend today, February 19.

Record Date and Dividend Eligibility

February 19 has been set as the record date to determine eligible shareholders who will receive dividends. Investors who purchased shares before this date will be listed as eligible shareholders under the T+1 settlement system.

Dividend Payout Details

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) 

Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has declared a second interim dividend of ₹3 per share for FY 2024-25, with February 20, 2025, as the record date.

Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care Ltd 

Procter & Gamble Hygiene & Health Care has announced an interim dividend of ₹110 per share with a face value of ₹10. The dividend will be paid on or before March 7, 2025.

AVT Natural Products Ltd 

AVT Natural Products has declared an interim dividend of ₹0.30 per share (30%) for FY 2024-25.

ESAB India Ltd 

ESAB India Ltd has announced a second interim dividend of ₹23 per share (230%) for FY 2024-25. The total dividend payout amounts to ₹35.40 crore before tax, and the payment is scheduled for March 7, 2025.

Shivalik Bimetal Controls Ltd 

Shivalik Bimetal Controls has declared an interim dividend of ₹1.20 per share (60%). The record date has been set as February 20, 2025, and the dividend will be paid within the timeline specified under the Companies Act 2013.

These dividends provide investors with additional returns, making these stocks attractive for dividend seekers. 

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

EPF Withdrawals via UPI to Start Soon for Faster Access

The government is working on a new feature that will allow Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) subscribers to withdraw their funds using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This move aims to make fund transfers faster and more convenient for members.

EPF to Be Linked with UPI Soon

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has developed a plan to enable EPF claim processing through UPI. Discussions are underway with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to introduce this feature within the next 2 to 3 months. Once implemented, subscribers will be able to receive their claims directly in their digital wallets, making withdrawals easier.

Enhancing Accessibility for 7.4 Million Subscribers

This initiative is part of EPFO’s broader efforts to improve accessibility and efficiency for its 7.4 million members. In collaboration with commercial banks and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the labour ministry is upgrading EPFO’s digital systems to simplify claim processing.

Major Reforms to Improve Service Delivery

Over the past 6 to 7 months, the EPFO has introduced several changes to improve pension services, speed up provident fund claim processing, and enhance its IT infrastructure. According to Labour Secretary Sumita Dawra, these efforts have already improved service delivery for millions of EPF members and pensioners, with more enhancements expected soon.

Record Number of Claims Processed

In the current financial year (FY25), EPFO has processed claims for over 50 million subscribers—the highest ever—disbursing more than ₹2.05 lakh crore. In comparison, 44.5 million claims worth ₹1.82 lakh crore were settled in FY24.

Auto claim settlements, which are completed within 3 days, have also increased significantly. In FY25, 18.7 million claims were settled through this process, up from 8.95 million in FY24.

Simplified Transfer Claims and Direct Member Submissions

Labour & Employment Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently highlighted that only 8% of transfer claims now require approval from both members and employers. Additionally, 48% of claims are now submitted directly by members, and 44% of transfer requests are processed automatically.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

Stocks to Watch on February 20, 2025: Religare Ent, Waaree Energies, and More in Focus Today

Indian stock markets are likely to open lower on February 20, 2025. As of 7:35 AM, GIFT Nifty futures were down by 84.5 points at ₹22,880.

In the previous trading session, Sensex closed at 75,939.18, slipping 28.21 points (0.04%), while Nifty50 ended at 22,932.90, down 12.40 points (0.05%).

Religare Enterprises

Religare Enterprises open offer saw a weak response, with only 2.31 lakh shares (0.07%) tendered out of the 9.00 crore shares (26%) available.

L&T Technology Services (LTTS)

LTTS is working towards a revenue target of $3 billion in the near to medium term.

Infosys

Infosys clarified that it did not use coercion or threats while terminating trainees at its Mysuru campus. The company is in discussions with the labour department regarding the issue.

Hyundai Motor India

Hyundai Motor India aims to make India a manufacturing hub for exports to Africa and neighboring regions.

Reliance Infrastructure

Reliance Infrastructure is exploring opportunities in the solar and battery segments. It has launched 2 subsidiaries: Reliance Battery GreenTech and Reliance Zetta SolarTech.

Bharat Forge

Bharat Forge subsidiary Kalyani Strategic Systems has partnered with AM General (USA) to supply the US military with Made-in-India advanced artillery cannons.

ONGC

ONGC is seeking a joint venture partner to develop Very Large Ethane Carriers (VLECs) for transporting feedstock to its petrochemical plant in western India.

Mahindra & Mahindra

Mahindra Group has teamed up with Anduril Industries (USA) to develop Autonomous Maritime Systems, AI-powered Counter Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS), and advanced Command and Control (C2) software.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Vodafone Idea Share Price Jumps Over 2% After Rejecting ₹97 Lakh GST Penalty

Vodafone Idea share price rose over 2% on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, after the company firmly opposed a Goods and Services Tax (GST) demand. The stock touched an intraday high of ₹8.39 on the BSE, gaining 3.96%. By 12:50 PM, it was trading 2.73% higher at ₹8.29 per share.

GST Notice and Vodafone Idea’s Response

Vodafone Idea received an order under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act, 2017, on February 18. The notice, issued under Section 73 of the CGST Act, claims that the company availed of excess Input Tax Credit during the financial year 2020-21.

The order includes a penalty of ₹97.16 lakh, along with a tax demand and interest. However, Vodafone Idea strongly denied the claims and stated that it would take the necessary steps to challenge and reverse the order.

Q3 FY25 Financial Performance

Vodafone Idea reported a smaller net loss of ₹6,609.3 crore in Q3 FY25, compared to ₹7,175.9 crore in the previous quarter.

  • Revenue: ₹11,117.3 crore (up 1.7% QoQ)
  • ARPU (Average Revenue Per User): ₹173 (up from ₹166 QoQ)
  • EBITDA: ₹4,712.4 crore (up 3.6% QoQ)
  • EBITDA Margin: 42.4% (up from 41.6% QoQ)

Despite revenue growth, Vodafone Idea continues to struggle with subscriber losses due to its lower ARPU and high customer churn.

About Vodafone Idea

Vodafone Idea is a major telecom service provider in India, offering mobility and long-distance services, along with handset and data card trading.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

 

Reliance Infra Share Price Jumps 6% on Renewable Energy Buzz; BSE Seeks Clarity

Reliance Infrastructure share price surged nearly 6% on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, following media reports about the company’s plans to enter renewable energy equipment manufacturing. The stock opened lower at ₹245.75 on the BSE, compared to the previous close of ₹248.80, but quickly rebounded. It hit an intraday high of ₹263.60 before settling at ₹257.30 by 1:30 PM, up 3.4%. Over the past year, the stock has gained 14%, pushing its market capitalisation beyond ₹10,200 crore.

Exchange Seeks Clarification

The surge in share price came amid reports that Reliance Infrastructure, owned by Anil Ambani, plans to set up solar and battery manufacturing units. However, the company has not yet made an official announcement on the stock exchanges. Due to this, the BSE has asked Reliance Infrastructure for clarification regarding the reports. The company’s response is still awaited.

Expansion into Renewable Energy

According to reports, Reliance Infrastructure plans to expand its business by establishing integrated solar and battery manufacturing facilities. The solar unit will focus on producing solar panels and components, while the battery unit will develop advanced energy storage solutions for grid applications and electric vehicles.

Key Leadership Appointments

To lead these new ventures, the company has appointed:

  • Ivan Saha as CEO of Renewable Manufacturing. He has over 30 years of experience in semiconductors and solar technology, having worked with Vikram Solar and ReNew Power.
  • Mushtaque Hussain as CEO of Battery Manufacturing. He brings 25 years of experience in automotive, renewable energy, and consumer electronics, with previous leadership roles at Reliance Industries and Tesla.

Conclusion

If confirmed, this expansion into renewable energy could strengthen Reliance Infrastructure’s position in the industry. Investors are now awaiting an official response from the company regarding its future plans.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Ola Electric Shares Hit 52-Week Low After Vahan Portal Update

Ola Electric Mobility shares hit a 52-week low during morning trade on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The stock opened lower at ₹59.34 on the BSE, compared to the previous close of ₹60.34. It further declined to an intraday low of ₹58.50, marking its lowest level in the past year.

Despite the drop, the stock rebounded later in the day, reaching an intraday high of ₹61.59, a recovery of over 5% from the day’s lowest point.

Reason for the Decline

The decline in Ola Electric’s share price followed an update on vehicle registrations from the VAHAN portal. The company announced that its February 2025 registration numbers might be temporarily affected due to ongoing negotiations to optimise the registration process.

Ola Electric’s Official Statement

Ola Electric issued a statement on February 19, explaining that it is renegotiating agreements with its registration partners—Rosmerta Digital Services Private Limited and Shimnit India Private Limited. The goal is to reduce costs and improve efficiency in the registration process. However, this process may impact sales registrations for February 2025.

Future Outlook

Despite the temporary dip in registrations, Ola Electric reassured investors that overall sales remain strong. The company expects the registration process to normalise in the coming weeks.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Arkade Developers Share Price Gain 4% After Securing Malad Redevelopment Project

Arkade Developers share price rose by 3.9% on February 19, 2025, reaching an intraday high of ₹144.8 on the BSE. The stock saw increased buying interest after the company secured the redevelopment rights for Nutan Ayojan, a cooperative housing society in Malad West.

At 12:43 PM, the stock was trading at ₹142.6, up 2.41%, while the BSE Sensex gained 0.03% to 75,989.45. The company’s market capitalisation stood at ₹2,647.56 crore. The stock’s 52-week high and low were ₹190 and ₹128.3, respectively.

Project Details

Arkade Developers announced that it had acquired the redevelopment rights for Nutan Ayojan, marking another step in its expansion across Mumbai’s prime locations.

The project will be built on a 6,858.90 square meter plot and is estimated to have a gross development value (GDV) of around ₹740 crore. It will feature luxurious 2 and 3 BHK apartments with a total saleable RERA carpet area of approximately 233,000 square feet.

Project Features

The planned structure will include:

  • 2 basements
  • 4 podium parking levels
  • An eco-deck
  • 32 residential floors

The project will have 408 homes, out of which about 215 units will be available for sale, further enhancing Arkade Developers’ residential portfolio.

Company’s Vision

Amit Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of Arkade Developers, emphasised the company’s commitment to offering modern and innovative homes while retaining the community’s familiar surroundings.

“Our strategy focuses on high-growth areas through redevelopment, strategic acquisitions, and optimising our land bank’s value. This project aligns with our expansion plans, allowing us to accelerate our growth pipeline,” he said.

Expanding Presence in Mumbai

With this new redevelopment, Arkade Developers strengthens its position in Mumbai’s Metropolitan Region (MMR). The company is known for developing premium residential properties and continues to expand its footprint in key micro-markets.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

EPFO Board to Meet on February 28: Interest Rate Decision Expected

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will hold its Central Board of Trustees (CBT) meeting on February 28 to decide the interest rate for the financial year 2024-25. According to a report, the rate is likely to stay around 8.25%.

EPF Interest Rate Trend

EPFO increased the interest rate to 8.25% for FY24, the highest in 3 years. In the previous year (FY23), it was 8.15%, slightly up from 8.10% in FY22.

The lowest rate in recent times was 8.10% in 2021-22, the lowest since 1977-78, when it stood at 8%. Over the last decade, EPF interest rates have varied, with the highest being 9.50% in 2010-11. Between 2019 and 2021, it remained steady at 8.50% before dropping in FY22.

EPF Interest Rate History (Selected Years)

Year Interest Rate
2022-23 8.15%
2021-22 8.10%
2020-21 8.50%
2019-20 8.50%
2018-19 8.65%
2017-18 8.55%
2016-17 8.65%
2015-16 8.80%
2010-11 9.50%
2000-01 12% (April-June), 11% (July onwards)
1989-2000 12.00%

How EPF Interest Rate Is Decided

EPFO proposes the interest rate, which the CBT then reviews. However, the final approval comes from the finance ministry before it is officially announced and credited to members’ accounts.

How EPF Interest Is Calculated

  • EPF interest is calculated every month but is credited at the end of the financial year.
  • If an account remains inactive for 36 months (no contributions), it becomes dormant and stops earning interest.

What’s Next?

The final decision will depend on the finance ministry’s approval after the CBT meeting. If the proposed 8.25% rate is approved, it will remain unchanged from last year.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

GlaxoSmithKline Share Price Soars 36% in 2 Days After Strong Q3 FY25 Results

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) shares surged by over 17% on February 18, extending a 3-day rally. The stock jumped as much as 17.69% to ₹2,744.95 per share on the BSE. This comes after the company reported impressive growth in its Q3 FY25 earnings, which fueled investor optimism.

Strong Q3 FY25 Performance Drives Rally 

GSK Pharmaceuticals announced a remarkable 400% increase in its net profit for Q3FY25, reaching ₹230 crore, compared to ₹46 crore in the same quarter previous year. The company’s revenue grew by 18% to ₹949.42 crore, up from ₹805.26 crore YoY.

EBITDA also saw a outstanding boost, rising by 33.8% to ₹291.9 crore, and the EBITDA margin expanded to 30.7%, up from 27.1% YoY.

Key Drivers of Growth 

GSK’s general medicines portfolio, including popular brands like Augmentin, Ceftum, and T-bact, saw market share gains. The company’s Respiratory portfolio, led by Nucala and Trelegy, also experienced strong growth, increasing patient access across India.

In the vaccines segment, GSK maintained its leadership in the self-pay private market for pediatric vaccines and gained momentum in adult immunisation with the Shingrix vaccine.

Stock Performance and Market Outlook 

Over the past month, GSK’s stock price has surged by 27%, and it has gained more than 17% year-to-date. Despite a 10% dip in the past 6 months, the stock has risen 16% over the last year. Over the past 2 years, it has delivered an impressive return of over 110%.

As of 2:20 PM, GSK shares were trading 7.92% higher at ₹2,516.95 per share on the BSE.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Zen Tech Share Price Drop for Third Straight Session, Fall 10% on Weak Q3 Results

Zen Technologies share price continued their downward trend for the third consecutive session after the company posted weaker Q3 FY25 results. The stock plunged 10% in today’s session, extending its 3-day loss to 33%.

Zen Technologies share price fell 10% to ₹972.00 as of 1:37 PM IST on February 18. The stock opened at ₹1,059.90, reaching a high of ₹1,059.90 and a low of ₹972.00.

Sequential Decline Despite Yearly Growth in Q3 Performance

Zen Technologies reported a 22% year-on-year increase in net profit to ₹38.62 crore, primarily driven by higher other income. However, net profit nearly halved from ₹65.24 crore in the previous quarter, reflecting a sharp sequential decline. Revenue grew 44% year-on-year to ₹141.52 crore, up from ₹98.08 crore but saw a 41% drop from ₹241.69 crore in Q2, largely due to shipment delays and a shift in revenue booking to the next quarter. 

EBITDA margins weakened to 35.90% from 47.34% in the same period last year but improved slightly from 35.12% in the previous quarter.

Revenue Guidance and Order Pipeline for Future Growth

Despite missing revenue expectations in Q3 FY25, Zen Tech remains optimistic about its future. The company expects ₹800 crore worth of inflows in Q4 FY26, providing revenue visibility beyond FY25. It maintains its ₹900 crore revenue target for FY25 with an EBITDA margin target of 35%. Zen Tech is also expanding its simulator portfolio with the acquisition of ARIPL, a naval simulator firm, and has signed MoUs and partnerships for air-based simulation solutions.

About Zen Technologies Limited

Zen Technologies Limited, established in 1996, specialises in designing, developing, and manufacturing combat training and counter-drone solutions for defence and security forces. The company focuses on indigenising technology to support the Indian armed forces, state police, and paramilitary units. Headquartered in Hyderabad, India, Zen Technologies also has offices in the UAE and the USA.

 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.