Closing Bell: Sensex Slips 800 pts, Nifty Holds Below 23,550 on March 26, 2025

As of March 26, 2025, the Nifty 50 closed at 23,486.85, down 181.80 points (-0.77%), reflecting a bearish sentiment in the market. Similarly, the BSE Sensex ended at 77,288.50, losing 728.69 points (-0.93%).

Investors looked for clarity on upcoming US tariffs. Over the past 7 sessions, the Nifty and BSE Sensex have gained 5.7%, turning positive for the year, driven by foreign capital inflows and optimism about improving domestic economic conditions.

Top Gainers and Losers

Zomato and HDFC Bank were among the top losers, with Zomato dropping 2.55% to ₹204.47 and HDFC Bank declining 1.01% to ₹1,803.00, reflecting broader market weakness.

On the other hand, Hindustan Aeronautics and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MAZDOCK) led the gainers, with HAL rising 3.07% to ₹4,135.70 and Mazdock gaining 1.13% to ₹2,644.00, supported by strong investor sentiment.

Broader Market Performance

The broader market saw mixed movements, with the Nifty Smallcap 250 index declining 1.41% to 14,970.00, reflecting pressure on smaller companies. 

The Nifty Realty index also dropped 1.29% to 852.05, indicating weakness in the real estate sector. 

However, the Nifty Auto index remained steady, edging up 0.02% to 21,742.80, as auto stocks showed resilience despite overall market volatility.

Oil Prices

As of March 26, 2025, at 03:50 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $73.49, up by 0.64%.

 

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.

Surprised to See ITC Hotels Shares in Your Portfolio? Here’s Why You Got Them

If you’ve noticed ITC Hotels shares in your portfolio and wondered how they got there, it’s due to the recent demerger of ITC Ltd.’s hotel business into a separate entity, ITC Hotels (ITCHL).

As part of this demerger, ITC shareholders received ITC Hotels shares in their demat accounts at a 10:1 ratio, meaning one ITC Hotels share was allotted for every 10 ITC shares held. Let’s Understand the same through its demerger timeline.

Understanding the ITC Hotels Demerger

ITC Ltd, a diversified conglomerate with interests spanning FMCG, hospitality, and paperboards, decided to demerge its hotel business to unlock value for its shareholders.

In June last year the company shareholders had already approved the demerger. Later in October 20204, the Kolkata bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the demerger between ITC Limited and ITC Hotels Limited.

Following this ITC announced that as all approvals are in place, the demerger of ITC Hotels will come into effect from January 1, 2025.

Board Meeting Decision Post NCLT Approval

Following the approval, ITC Ltd. announced in an exchange filing that the Board of Directors of ITC Hotels (ITCHL) approved the allotment of 125.11 crore equity shares (₹1 each) during a Board meeting on January 11, 2025.

It was approved that as part of this demerger, ITC shareholders will receive ITC Hotels shares at a 10:1 ratio, meaning one ITC Hotels share was allotted for every 10 ITC shares held as of the record date, January 6, 2025.

What Is the Record Date, and Why Does It Matter?

A record date is the cutoff date set by a company to determine which shareholders are eligible to receive benefits like dividends or bonus shares.

The record date—set as January 6, 2025—is the date on which shareholders must hold ITC shares to be eligible for ITC Hotels shares. If you owned ITC shares on or before this date, you automatically received ITC Hotels shares in your demat account at a 10:1 ratio.

However, if you bought ITC shares after the record date, you were not eligible for ITC Hotels shares. Only shareholders with ITC holdings as of January 6, 2025, received the new shares.

Conclusion

The demerger of ITC Hotels from ITC Ltd. marks a significant step in restructuring, allowing both entities to focus on their core strengths. As an ITC shareholder, you received ITC Hotels shares automatically if you held ITC stock before the record date.

 

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.

Adani Group Eyes Jaiprakash Associates with Over $2 Billion Bid Amid Insolvency

The Adani Group has reportedly placed a preliminary bid ranging between $2.4 billion and $2.6 billion for Jaiprakash Associates Ltd. (JAL), which is currently undergoing insolvency proceedings, as per news reports.

The bid submission deadline was March 25, and over 20 potential bidders are said to have expressed interest in acquiring JAL’s assets.

Strategic Expansion Across Key Sectors

As per news reports Adani Group’s interest in JAL aligns with its broader business strategy, as JAL’s diverse portfolio in cement, power, and real estate complements Adani’s existing operations in these sectors.

JAL’s Asset Portfolio and Ongoing Projects

Jaiprakash Associates was admitted to the bankruptcy court in 2024 after ICICI Bank filed an insolvency petition against the company.

Since then, the company has drawn significant interest from corporate entities due to its extensive asset base.

In January 2025, the National Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL) emerged as the sole bidder to acquire JAL’s stressed loans for ₹12,000 crore, marking a major milestone for lenders.

However, the insolvency process continued, and the expression of interest (EoI) deadline, issued in February 2025, was extended to encourage more participation.

The company’s creditors have reportedly submitted claims exceeding ₹57,000 crore, further highlighting the scale of the financial distress.

Overview of Jaiprakash Associates’ Business

According to the EoI documents, JAL’s operations span multiple sectors, including engineering, construction, real estate, and cement production. Key highlights of its business assets include:

  • Engineering and Construction: JAL is involved in hydropower, irrigation, road, and tunnel projects, with 17 ongoing infrastructure projects.
  • Real Estate: The company owns hundreds of acres of land with commercial, and industrial properties, and several hotels under development.
  • Cement Industry: JAL operates four cement manufacturing units and holds limestone mining leases in Madhya Pradesh.

Conclusion

The outcome of the bidding process will play a crucial role in determining the future ownership of JAL’s assets and could lead to a significant restructuring of the company’s operations.

As the insolvency process unfolds, stakeholders will closely watch how this acquisition shapes the competitive landscape in sectors like cement, real estate, and infrastructure development.

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.

ATM Cash Withdrawal Charges to Rise From May 1: Check New Fees

Starting May 1, withdrawing cash from ATMs will become more expensive as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved an increase in ATM interchange fees. 

This fee is the amount one bank pays another for allowing its cardholders to use their ATM services. The revision aims to cover the growing costs of maintaining ATMs and providing enhanced services to customers of other banks.

What Are the New ATM Charges?

As per the new charges:

  • Customers who exceed their free withdrawal limit will have to pay an additional ₹2 per transaction.
  • The cost of withdrawing cash from ATMs will increase from ₹17 to ₹19 per transaction.
  • The fee for checking account balances at ATMs will rise from ₹6 to ₹7 per transaction.

Applicability of New ATM Transaction Charges

These revised charges will only apply once customers surpass their monthly free transaction limit. 

Currently, account holders are allowed 5 free transactions per month at ATMs of other banks in metro cities and 3 free transactions in non-metro areas. 

After exhausting these limits, the new transaction fees will be applicable.

Failed ATM Transactions and Free Transaction Limit

Bank customers often face failed ATM transactions due to technical errors, raising concerns about whether these unsuccessful attempts count toward the free transaction limit.

As per an RBI circular (dated August 14, 2019), failed transactions caused by technical issues — including hardware or software malfunctions, communication errors, lack of cash in the ATM, or invalid PIN entries — are not counted as valid transactions. Consequently, no charges apply in such cases.

Impact on Customers and Banks

This increase in ATM fees follows recommendations from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and is part of an RBI-authorised revision. Banks and white-label ATM operators have long requested a fee hike, citing escalating operational expenses that made previous charges unsustainable.

Smaller banks, which have fewer ATMs and depend on larger banks’ ATM networks for their customers’ withdrawals, are expected to feel a greater impact. Customers who frequently use ATMs outside their home bank’s network will also face higher costs, making digital payment alternatives more attractive.

Conclusion

The hike in ATM withdrawal and balance inquiry fees reflects the increasing cost of maintaining ATM infrastructure and services. While the changes will not affect those staying within their free transaction limits, customers who rely heavily on ATMs beyond their bank’s network should be prepared for additional charges starting May 1.

 

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.

Siemens India Share Price Gains 6% Post NCLT Nod for Energy Business

This strategic move aims to unlock value for shareholders, with Siemens Energy India set to be listed separately on stock exchanges.

Siemens stock opened at ₹5,300 and hit a high of ₹5,501.70 before settling at ₹5,430 at 11:30 AM on the NSE, marking a 6.07% increase from the previous close of ₹5,119.10.

Demerger Details and Share Allocation

As part of the demerger, the company has fixed an equity allotment ratio of 1:1. This means that for every Siemens Ltd. share held as of the record date, shareholders will receive one share of Siemens Energy India.

The record date, which determines eligible shareholders for the allotment, is expected to be announced soon, as per news reports.

Leadership Changes in the New Entity

Guilherme Vieria De Mendonca, who previously led Siemens’ energy business, has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of Siemens Energy India.

Additionally, Harish Shekar, the former finance head of the energy division, will serve as the Executive Director and CFO.

Global and Indian Context of the Demerger

Siemens AG, the parent company, had globally separated its energy business in 2020. The Indian subsidiary’s move aligns with this strategy, enabling a focused approach towards the energy sector.

By listing Siemens Energy India as a distinct entity, the company aims to drive better operational efficiencies and shareholder value.

Q3 FY25 Financial Performance

Siemens Ltd. reported a 21.5% year-on-year increase in net profit for the December quarter, reaching ₹614.6 crore compared to ₹505.7 crore in the previous year.

However, its consolidated revenue saw a 3.3% decline, dropping from ₹3,709.5 crore to ₹3,587.2 crore. The company’s EBITDA also declined by 11.5%, falling from ₹453 crore to ₹401 crore, with margins contracting to 11.2% from 12.2%.

Conclusion

The approval of Siemens India’s demerger marks a significant structural change for the company. With Siemens Energy India set to operate as an independent entity, this separation aligns with the global restructuring of Siemens AG’s energy business.

 

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.

SEBI Puts WeWork India’s IPO on Hold; Indira IVF Withdraws Draft Filings

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has placed WeWork India’s initial public offering (IPO) on hold while also returning the draft offer documents of Star Agriwarehousing, as per news reports

Additionally, Indira IVF Hospital has withdrawn its draft IPO filings, which were submitted via the confidential route, as per media reports.

WeWork India’s IPO on Hold

WeWork India filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) in February 2024, planning to offer 4.3 crore shares through the Offer-for-Sale (OFS) route. 

As per the DRHP, Embassy Buildcon was set to offload up to 3.3 crore shares, while Ariel Way Tenant, the entity through which WeWork Inc holds its stake in the Indian entity, intended to sell around 1 crore shares.

WeWork India, founded in 2017, operates as part of the global WeWork network, which has a presence in 35 countries with approximately 600 wholly owned and licensed locations. The Embassy Group currently holds a 72.4% stake in WeWork India, while Ariel Way Tenant owns 22.28%.

Indira IVF Hospital Withdraws Draft IPO Filings

Indira IVF Hospital, a leading fertility clinic chain, had filed its IPO documents via the confidential pre-filing route, which allows companies to withhold public disclosure of certain details.

However, the company has now decided to withdraw its draft IPO filings. It is important to note that a pre-filed DRHP does not necessarily mean that an IPO will proceed, and companies can opt to pull back before making public disclosures.

SEBI Returns Star Agriwarehousing’s IPO Papers

In another development, Sebi returned the draft IPO papers of Agriwarehousing and Collateral Management Ltd, a tech-driven agricultural services firm, on March 19.

The company had initially filed its draft papers in December 2023, proposing an IPO consisting of a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to ₹450 crore, along with an OFS component of 2.69 crore equity shares by promoters and an investor, as per news reports.

Conclusion

The developments surrounding WeWork India, Indira IVF, and Star Agriwarehousing highlight the uncertainties and regulatory challenges in the IPO process.

 As these companies reassess their next steps, investors and market participants will be watching closely for further updates.

 

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.

Star Health Share Price Hits 52-Week Low; Company Refutes IRDAI Concerns

Star Health and Allied Insurance’s share price traded at ₹345.75 at 9:55 AM on the NSE, marking a decline of ₹1.25 (-0.36%) from the previous close of ₹347. The stock opened at ₹345.10, reached a high of ₹346.60, and touched a 52-week low of ₹340.05 during early trading.

This marks the second consecutive session in which the company’s shares have hit a fresh 52-week low.

Star Health Addresses Allegations 

Star Health and Allied Insurance has addressed recent concerns regarding its claim settlement practices, following reports that the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has flagged serious lapses.

In an official statement, the insurer clarified that it has not received any direct communication from the regulator regarding any irregularities.

“IRDAI conducts regular audits and thematic inspections as part of its regulatory oversight in line with the framework outlined in its master circulars. These assessments are a routine process to ensure compliance across the industry. The media statement appeared to be speculative and motivated in nature, and we have not received any communication on this subject from the regulator,” the company stated in a press release on the stock exchanges.

IRDAI’s Findings on Star Health’s Claim Settlement Practices

According to a CNBC-TV18 report, IRDAI has identified major issues in Star Health’s claim settlement practices, including a high number of customer grievances.

The insurance watchdog has been reviewing various claim-related parameters such as claim rejections, deductions, and the nature of queries raised by policyholders.

In addition to Star Health, IRDAI has examined 8-10 other health and general insurers in India, although no reports of action against them have surfaced yet.

Star Health’s Claim Settlement Record

As per IRDAI’s 2023-24 insurance statistics, Star Health’s incurred claim ratio stood at 66.47%. This means that for every ₹100 collected as premiums, the company paid out approximately ₹67 in claims.

This figure is slightly higher than the overall incurred claim ratio of stand-alone health insurers (63.63%) but notably lower than the industry-wide average of 82.52% for all health and general insurers in India.

Conclusion

While Star Health has denied receiving any formal notice from IRDAI, the ongoing regulatory review has cast a spotlight on claim settlement practices within the insurance industry.

Policyholders will be closely monitoring developments, as the outcome of this review could impact customer confidence and influence regulatory measures across the sector.

 

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.

New Income Tax Bill to Be Discussed in Monsoon Session of Parliament: FM Sitharaman

The upcoming monsoon session of Parliament, typically held in July and August, is set to witness a significant discussion on the new Income Tax Bill. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made this announcement in the Lok Sabha while addressing discussions on the Finance Bill 2025.

A Step Towards Simplification

Introduced in the House on February 13, the proposed Income Tax Bill is currently under scrutiny by a Select Committee, which has been tasked with submitting its report by the first day of the next session. Once reviewed, the bill will be tabled for discussion in the monsoon session.

This new legislation aims to replace the six-decade-old Income Tax Act of 1961, bringing much-needed simplifications to the direct tax laws. By eliminating complexities, removing ambiguities, and reducing litigation, the government intends to make tax laws easier to understand for both individuals and businesses.

Why is a New Income Tax Bill Necessary?

The current Income Tax Act, established in 1961, was designed to address the economic and social landscape of that era. However, with rapid technological advancements and evolving business practices, the taxation system needs a revamp.

Over the years, multiple amendments have been made to the existing law, making it bulky and difficult to comprehend, especially for the common taxpayer.

In today’s digital age, tax filing has become more automated, with pre-filled ITR forms drawing data from multiple sources like TDS statements, employer records, and property transactions.

Given these advancements, the existing tax framework requires a comprehensive overhaul to align with the modern socio-economic environment and simplify compliance for taxpayers.

Key Features of the New Bill

The Finance Ministry has assured that the new bill will be structured in a straightforward manner, avoiding excessive legal jargon, lengthy provisos, and unnecessary explanations. Additionally, it will be designed to be tax-neutral, ensuring a seamless transition without creating new financial burdens on taxpayers.

Government’s Vision for the New Tax Law

During her Budget speech on July 23, 2024, Finance Minister Sitharaman emphasised the need for a detailed review of the Income Tax Act within six months.

The objective is to make the tax law more concise, transparent, and easily understandable. This, in turn, will reduce legal disputes and uncertainties, allowing for a more streamlined tax administration system.

Conclusion

The upcoming discussion on the new Income Tax Bill marks a significant step toward modernising India’s taxation system. While the government aims to simplify tax laws and enhance transparency, the actual impact of the bill will depend on its implementation and how well it addresses existing challenges.

As discussions unfold in Parliament, stakeholders will closely watch how these proposed changes translate into practical benefits for taxpayers.

 

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.

Closing Bell: Sensex Rises 32 pts, Nifty Holds Above 23,650 on March 25, 2025

On March 25, 2025, Indian benchmark indices ended marginally higher, trimming early gains after an initial surge of nearly 1%.

Top Gainers and Losers

On Tuesday, HDFC Bank advanced 0.89% to ₹1,816.00, with a market cap of ₹13,89,588.72 crores, while Infosys closed 1.66% higher at ₹1,619.25.

In contrast, ICICI Bank declined 1.19% to ₹1,341.95, with a market cap of ₹9,48,211.10 crores. BSE stood at ₹4,636.50.

Broader Market Performance

On Tuesday NIFTY Financial Services index rose 0.11% to 25,086.00. The NIFTY IT sector outperformed, climbing 1.32% to 37,706.90, whereas the NIFTY Private Bank index edged up 0.07% to 25,861.05, reflecting a mixed market sentiment.

Oil Prices

As of March 25, 2025, at 03:50 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $73.48, up by 0.66%.

 

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 New Rules: ₹7 Lakh Insurance, Job Change Coverage, and Lower PF Penalties Explained

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has introduced major updates to the Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) scheme in its 237th meeting. 

These changes streamline the death claim process and enhance insurance benefits, providing crucial financial security to families of EPF members.

Key Updates to the EDLI Scheme

The EDLI scheme, established in 1976 by the Government of India, offers life insurance to employees enrolled in the EPF scheme. The latest revisions ensure that families receive financial assistance in case of an untimely demise of the employee.

Relaxation in Documentation Requirements

To simplify the claim process, EPFO has removed the mandatory requirement of uploading a cheque leaf image and an attested bank passbook for specific eligible cases. This change aims to expedite insurance claim settlements and reduce administrative hurdles.

Enhanced Insurance Coverage for EPF Members

One of the most significant updates is the expansion of insurance coverage. Now, employees who pass away within a year of employment will also be eligible for insurance benefits. 

Families of such employees will receive a ₹50,000 payout, ensuring some financial relief during tough times.

Additionally, the revised EDLI scheme ensures that insurance coverage continues for employees changing jobs, even if there is a gap of up to two months between employment. This change guarantees uninterrupted financial protection for employees and their dependents.

Increased Insurance Payout Range

Under the updated EDLI scheme, the insurance payout for employees’ families now ranges between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹7 lakh. 

This revision strengthens financial security for beneficiaries and provides greater monetary relief in case of unexpected events. Previously, employees’ families were ineligible for insurance benefits if the employee passed away within a year of joining. 

The new rules address this gap, benefiting over 1,000 families annually.

Reduced Penalty on Late PF Deposits

To ease financial pressure on companies and promote timely contributions to employees’ retirement savings, EPFO has reduced the penalty for late Provident Fund (PF) deposits to just 1% per month. 

This adjustment supports businesses while ensuring employees receive their due retirement benefits without significant delays.

EPF Interest Rate for 2024-25

For the financial year 2024-25, EPFO has set the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) interest rate at 8.25% annually. This decision ensures better returns on employees’ savings, helping them grow their retirement corpus effectively.

Conclusion

The recent updates to the EPFO’s EDLI scheme and PF regulations bring significant improvements to employee benefits. By enhancing insurance coverage, reducing penalties, and maintaining a competitive interest rate, EPFO strengthens social security for millions of salaried employees.

These reforms ensure better financial protection and smoother claim processes, helping families navigate unexpected financial difficulties with greater ease.

 

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.