USD/INR: Rupee Softens Amid Oil Uptick, Bond Borrowing Surge on Mar 25, 2025

The Indian Rupee (INR) weakened on Tuesday after strengthening for nine consecutive sessions, despite continued US Dollar (USD) sales from foreign banks and a resurgence in foreign inflows.

The USD/INR exchange rate edged higher to 85.71, reflecting a 0.17% gain at 1:25 PM, as of March 25, 2025. The pair traded within a range of 85.54 to 85.83 during the session.

Impact of Rising Crude Oil Prices and Bond Borrowing

Indian government bond yields surged early Tuesday as states increased their borrowing to a record high. Indian states are set to borrow ₹746.55 billion ($8.71 billion), exceeding the scheduled amount by more than ₹200 billion.

Trump’s Tariff Announcement

Market sentiment was also influenced by former US President Donald Trump’s statement on upcoming automobile import tariffs.

He indicated that some countries might receive exemptions or reductions when these tariffs are formally announced on April 2.

Foreign Institutional Investors Return to Buying Mode

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) returning to buying mode also contributed to the rupee’s gains. FIIs were net buyers of ₹3,055.76 crore in Indian equities on Monday, marking their first net buying week of the year.

However, global funds have still withdrawn ₹1.39 trillion from domestic stocks in 2025, as per news reports.

Dollar Index and Crude Oil Price Trends

The dollar index, which measures the USD against a basket of foreign currencies, rose slightly by 0.04% to 104.30. In March, it has weakened by 3.25%, marking its sharpest decline since November 2022.

Meanwhile, crude oil prices remained relatively steady as investors assessed the impact of US tariffs alongside increased purchases of oil and gas from Venezuela. Brent crude edged up 0.38% to $73.28 per barrel.

Conclusion

The Indian Rupee’s performance remains influenced by a mix of global and domestic factors, including crude oil price fluctuations, foreign inflows, and bond market activities. While the rupee has shown resilience, external trade policies and economic developments will continue to shape its trajectory 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.

Britannia Share Price in Focus Amid Gujarat Plant Strike Disruptions

Britannia Industries shares are under the spotlight after the company confirmed that a strike at its Jhagadia plant in Gujarat has partially impacted operations. Britannia Industries’ share price traded at ₹4,827.65 at noon, as of March 25, 2025, reflecting a 0.64% increase from the previous close of ₹4,796.85.

The stock opened at ₹4,792 and reached an intraday high of ₹4,838, while the day’s low was recorded at ₹4,738.60.

Operational Disruptions at Britannia’s Gujarat Plant

According to a regulatory filing, Britannia Industries acknowledged that production at the Jhagadia facility has been affected.

However, the company is taking measures to manage demand through existing resources to minimise operational disruptions. It also assured that any significant developments would be promptly reported to the stock exchanges.

Q3 FY25 Earnings Overview

Despite operational challenges, Britannia Industries reported steady growth in its financial performance for the third quarter of FY25.

The company’s consolidated net profit increased by 4.5% year-on-year, reaching ₹582 crore, compared to ₹556 crore in the same period last year. Revenue from operations stood at ₹4,593 crore, reflecting an 8% increase from ₹4,256 crore in Q3FY24.

For the nine-month period ending December 31, 2024, Britannia recorded consolidated sales of ₹13,159 crore, marking a 5% growth. Meanwhile, net profit for the period stood at ₹1,619 crore, reflecting a 1.3% year-on-year rise.

Share Price Performance

Over the past six months, the stock has experienced a 23% decline; however, it has delivered a robust 54% return over the last 3 years, as per news reports. Currently, the company’s market capitalisation stands at ₹1,15,538 crore.

Conclusion

Britannia Industries continues to navigate operational disruptions at its Jhagadia plant while maintaining a stable financial performance. The company’s proactive approach in addressing the strike and ensuring minimal impact on production underscores its resilience.

Investors will closely monitor developments as the company works toward resolving the issue and sustaining its market position.

 

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.

JSPL, Jindal Power Among Winners in Latest Coal Mine Auctions

The 11th round of commercial coal mine auctions has concluded successfully, with strong industry participation highlighting continued interest in India’s coal sector.

A total of 12 coal mines were auctioned, achieving an impressive average revenue share of 36.27%, as per the data from the ministry. These mines are expected to generate an annual revenue of approximately ₹3,330 crore and create around 20,902 jobs.

Key Players in the Auction

Several leading companies secured coal blocks in this round, including Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL), Jindal Power, and Western Coalfields Ltd, a subsidiary of Coal India.

Other successful bidders included Jharkhand Exploration and Mining Corporation, Innovative Mines and Minerals, Singhal Business, Pra Nuravi Coal Mining, Mineware Advisors, Rungta Sons, and New Era Cleantech Solution.

Overview of the Auction

The 11th round of commercial coal mine auctions was launched in December 2024, with 27 blocks put up for sale. Of these, 12 coal mines were successfully auctioned, comprising eight fully explored mines and four partially explored mines.

According to the Ministry of Coal, these mines collectively hold geological reserves of approximately 5,759.23 million tonnes, with a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 15.46 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), excluding the partially explored mines.

Economic and Employment Impact

The auctions reflect the government’s commitment to a transparent and stable policy framework for commercial coal mining. The total projected capital investment in these mines is around ₹2,319 crore, further reinforcing industrial growth. The development of these mines is also set to create employment opportunities for nearly 20,902 people, providing a boost to local economies.

Share Price Performance

Jindal Steel & Power’s share price is ₹911.35, down from its previous close of ₹922.75, while Coal India Limited is at ₹399.25, lower than its previous close of ₹406 at 11:45 AM on the NSE.

Conclusion

The success of the 11th round of commercial coal auctions underscores the sustained industry interest in India’s coal sector.

With substantial economic contributions and job creation, these auctions play a crucial role in strengthening the country’s energy security and industrial growth. As India continues to expand its commercial coal mining initiatives, the sector is poised for further development and investment.

 

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.

ITC Hotels Share Price Edges 2% Higher on March 25, 2025, After a Recent Decline

ITC Hotels’ share price rose by 2.08% to ₹199.55 at 11:20 AM, as of March 25, 2025, reflecting a positive market trend. The stock opened at ₹196.70 and reached an intraday high of ₹201.77 before touching a low of ₹196. The stock had hit a 52-week high on Friday, last week.

ITC Hotels Included in FTSE All-World Index

ITC Hotels has been added to the FTSE All-World Index with a weightage of $52.6 million. This inclusion is anticipated to drive inflows of approximately $1.4 billion to $1.6 billion into Indian equity markets following the index rebalancing, according to reports.

Since its demerger from ITC to unlock shareholder value, ITC Hotels has gained strong investor traction. The company debuted on the BSE at ₹188 per share and on the NSE at ₹180, reflecting positive market sentiment.

Growth Plans for the Next 5 Years

As India’s second-largest listed hotel chain operating under an owner-operator model, ITC Hotels boasts a diverse portfolio and strong financial standing. The company is actively expanding underutilised greenfield projects, which currently make up 20% of its total room inventory.

With a presence across 90 locations and 140 properties offering over 13,000 keys, ITC Hotels has set an ambitious target to increase its portfolio to 200 hotels with 18,000 keys in five years. Two-thirds of these properties will operate under management contracts.

Having launched 30 hotels over the past two years, the company aims to sustain its rapid expansion by introducing at least one new property every month for the next 2 years.

Conclusion

ITC Hotels has expanded its market presence with its inclusion in the FTSE All-World Index and ongoing portfolio growth.

While the stock has seen fluctuations, the company continues to add new properties and optimise its operations, maintaining its position in the hospitality 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.

GRSE Share Price Surges 5% on German Multi-Vessel Deal

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) saw a notable rise in its share price, reaching ₹1,790 at its intraday high on March 25, 2025, reflecting a 2.32% increase from its previous close of ₹1,704.55. The stock opened at ₹1,754.55 and traded within a range of ₹1,735 to ₹1,790 at 10:05 AM on the NSE.

The surge came after the company announced a contract with Carsten Rehder Schiffsmakler and Reederei GmbH & Co. KG of Germany for the construction and delivery of 2 additional Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs).

Details of the Agreement

The latest contract follows an earlier ‘Option Agreement’ between GRSE and Carsten Rehder for the procurement of four additional MPVs. Under this deal, GRSE will now be constructing a total of 8 vessels, with an estimated order value of approximately 108 million USD.

Each of these Multi-Purpose Vessels will measure 120 meters in length, 17 meters in width, and feature a maximum draft of 6.75 meters.

The vessels are designed to carry 7,500 metric tonnes of cargo, accommodating bulk, general, and project cargoes, with containers placed on hatch covers.

Notably, the ships are specifically designed to transport large windmill blades on deck, emphasising their role in supporting renewable energy logistics.

Stock Performance and Market Impact

GRSE’s stock has demonstrated strong performance in recent years. Over the past year, the stock has surged by 118%, outperforming its sector by 42%. Over the last 3 years, it has provided an impressive 637% return, significantly outpacing the broader market indices such as Nifty50 and Sensex, as per news reports.

About GRSE’s Legacy and Market Position

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) is a Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence.

Classified as a Schedule ‘A’ Mini Ratna Category I company, GRSE has built a strong reputation as a premier shipyard in India. Established in 1934, the company specialises in the construction of a wide range of vessels, including naval warships, commercial ships, and specialised vessels for defence and security applications.

Conclusion

GRSE’s deal with Carsten Rehder highlights its expanding presence in both the defence and commercial shipbuilding sectors.

With its experience in shipbuilding and a steady order book, the company continues to play a significant role in the maritime and defence industries.

 

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 Enterprises Share Price in Focus Following New Solar and Wind Energy Push

Adani Enterprises, through its subsidiary Adani New Industries Limited (ANIL), has taken a significant step in strengthening its renewable energy business by establishing a new entity, Adani New Industries One Limited (ANIOL).

This strategic move aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable energy and further expands its presence in the solar and wind energy sectors.

Focus on Solar and Wind Energy Manufacturing

ANIOL, a wholly owned subsidiary of ANIL, will be dedicated to the manufacturing and supply of equipment, components, and materials essential for solar and wind energy production.

The company’s operations will include trading and supplying key components such as solar panels, inverters, wind turbines, blades, and related equipment.

By focusing on the supply chain of renewable energy infrastructure, ANIOL aims to support the growing demand for clean energy solutions.

Strengthening Adani Group’s Renewable Energy Presence

With an authorised share capital of ₹1,00,000, ANIOL underscores Adani Group’s strategic expansion in the renewable energy sector. The formation of this new entity reinforces the company’s long-term vision of driving clean energy adoption and contributing to India’s renewable energy goals.

Although ANIOL has been formally incorporated, the company has yet to commence business operations. However, its establishment marks a crucial step in the Adani Group’s efforts to enhance its footprint in sustainable energy production and supply.

Share Price Performance

Adani Enterprises’ share price saw a slight increase on March 25, 2025, reaching ₹2,376 at 9:50 AM on the NSE, up by 0.31%. The stock opened at ₹2,385 and recorded a high of ₹2,387.65 before dipping to a low of ₹2,360.80.

Conclusion

The creation of ANIOL is in line with Adani Group’s broader initiatives to strengthen India’s renewable energy infrastructure. The establishment of ANIOL highlights Adani Enterprises’ commitment to renewable energy and its role in strengthening India’s clean energy infrastructure.

By focusing on solar and wind energy manufacturing, ANIOL is set to contribute significantly to the industry while reinforcing Adani Group’s position in 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.

Gold Loan Borrowers Face New Hurdles as Banks Tighten Repayment Rules

Gold loans have long been a go-to option for individuals needing quick financial assistance. However, recent changes in regulations have made the process more challenging for borrowers.

After the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) tightened gold loan policies, many borrowers now find themselves struggling to extend their loans without fully repaying them first.

New Rules for Gold Loan Extensions

Previously, borrowers could extend their gold loan tenure by simply paying the interest. However, under the new system, banks require borrowers to repay the entire loan amount, including interest, before they can repledge their gold for another term.

This has significantly increased the financial burden on borrowers, many of whom take these loans for household expenses, education, or medical emergencies.

Increased Costs and Additional Burdens

Now, when borrowers want to renew their gold loans, banks check the gold again to make sure it is real and of the right quality.

This extra check comes with processing fees, making the renewal process more expensive. Before, borrowers could easily extend their loans by just paying interest, but now they have to deal with extra costs and delays, making it harder for them to manage their loans.

Why the Rules Were Revised?

The changes in gold loan regulations come in response to the sharp rise in gold loan disbursals. As of January 2025, the outstanding gold loan portfolio of banks and NBFCs stood at ₹1.78 lakh crore—a staggering 76.9% increase from the previous year, as per news reports.

With gold prices surging, lenders found gold loans to be a highly lucrative business, given that they could auction the pledged gold if borrowers default.

However, the RBI’s review of gold loan practices exposed several irregularities, including:

  • Improper valuation of gold without the borrower’s presence.
  • The use of third-party agents for loan sourcing and appraisal.
  • Lack of transparency in gold auctions upon default.
  • Inadequate monitoring of loan-to-value (LTV) ratios.

To address these concerns, the RBI mandated stricter policies and controls to ensure fair and transparent lending practices.

Borrowers React to the New System

Many borrowers are finding the new rules difficult to manage. The requirement to repay the full loan before renewing has made the process more challenging, especially for those who depended on the previous system of extending their loans by paying only the interest.

This added financial burden makes it harder for borrowers to manage their expenses and continue using gold loans as a reliable source of funds.

Conclusion

The revised gold loan regulations have undeniably made the borrowing process more cumbersome for individuals relying on this financial tool. While the changes aim to improve transparency and compliance, they have also placed a heavier financial burden on borrowers.

Many who previously found gold loans accessible are now struggling with repayment requirements, additional fees, and procedural complexities. The new policies have reshaped the landscape of gold loans, impacting those who depend on them the most.

 

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.

Closing Bell: Sensex Rises 1.4%, Nifty Above 23,650 March 24, 2025

The Indian stock market saw a strong rally today, with the Sensex surging 1,078.87 points (1.40%) to close at 77,984.38, reflecting positive sentiment among investors. Similarly, the NIFTY 50 ended the session at 23,658.35, gaining 307.95 points (1.32%).

Top Gainers and Losers

Kotak Mahindra Bank closed at ₹2,180 after reaching a high of ₹2,184.25 and a low of ₹2,090.25, marking a strong upward trend. NTPC also performed well, closing at ₹367, with a high of ₹368.00 and a low of ₹353.65.

On the losing side, IndusInd Bank ended at ₹667.75, falling from a high of ₹693.75 and touching a low of ₹665.15. Titan also saw a decline, closing at ₹3,076 after hitting a high of ₹3,175.95 and a low of ₹3,075.

Broader Market Performance

The mid and small-cap segments saw positive momentum in the market. NIFTY Midcap Select closed at 11,699.50, gaining 1.67%, reflecting strong buying interest in mid-sized companies. Similarly, NIFTY Smallcap 100 ended at 16,363.70, up 1.10%.

Sectoral Indices Shine

NIFTY Bank closed at 51,704.95, rising 2.20%, with an intraday high of 51,801.15 and a low of 50,795.90. The index showcased strong momentum, reflecting investor optimism in banking stocks. Similarly, NIFTY Financial Services ended at 25,057.55, gaining 1.99%, indicating a positive sentiment in the broader financial sector.

Oil Prices

As of March 24, 2025, at 03:50 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $72.55, up by 0.54%.

 

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.

What Does Adani Ports Do?

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) is the country’s largest private port operator and an end-to-end logistics provider. 

Over the past 2 decades, APSEZ has built, acquired, and expanded a robust portfolio of 13 strategically located ports and terminals, representing 24% of India’s total port capacity. This remarkable scale and efficiency position Adani Ports as a key player in meeting India’s core trade and logistics demands.

Comprehensive Port Operations Across India

APSEZ manages a diverse range of ports and terminals, each catering to specific types of cargo.

1. Key Ports and Their Offerings

Adani Ports’ network includes Gangavaram Port, Karaikal Port, and Krishnapatnam Port, each catering to diverse cargo needs. Gangavaram Port specializes in bulk and break bulk cargo, as well as container handling.

Karaikal Port manages dry bulk, general, and liquid cargo, ensuring seamless trade operations. 

Krishnapatnam Port handles a wide range of cargo, including bulk, break bulk, liquid, container, LPG/LNG, and crude oil through a Single Point Mooring system. These ports play a crucial role in strengthening India’s maritime trade and logistics infrastructure.

2. Explore the Extensive Port Network

Adani Ports operates an extensive network of 13 ports and terminals across India, including Mundra, Hazira, Krishnapatnam, Dhamra, and Ennore.

Strategically located on both the east and west coasts, these ports handle a diverse range of cargo, enhancing trade efficiency and strengthening India’s maritime infrastructure. 

With continuous expansion and modernisation, Adani Ports plays a vital role in boosting the country’s logistics and supply chain capabilities.

Adani’s Mundra Port – Strategic Hub for Global Trade

Mundra Port, India’s largest commercial port, offers several advantages that make it a preferred choice for cargo handling.

1. Strategic Location and Connectivity

  • Gujarat, with the longest coastline in India (1,600 km), provides easy access to Western, Middle Eastern, and African markets.
  • Mundra Port offers the shortest logistics connectivity to the North-Western hinterland, serving key trade hubs such as Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.
  • It is well connected to major global trade routes, including the Middle East, Europe, the US, Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and the Far East.

 

2. Integrated Multi-Modal Connectivity

  • Port Facilities: Dedicated multi-product handling, high efficiency, and excellent safety standards.
  • Rail Connectivity: A 210 km rail network linking Mundra to Adipur, which connects to the national railway grid. APSEZ owns five locomotives.
  • Road Network: Seamless connectivity through NH-8A, NH-8, SH-6, and SH-48, with an upcoming direct road link to NH-8A.
  • Air Transport: Mundra’s airstrip is licensed for private use, featuring a 2,200-meter runway, extendable to 4,000 meters for larger aircraft.

 

3. Mundra SEZ: Powering Industrial Growth

  • Mundra SEZ integrates world-class infrastructure with sustainable energy solutions.
  • Logistics Hub: 1,000 hectares earmarked for logistics, Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO), and industrial expansion.
  • Power Generation: Home to the world’s largest private single-location thermal power plant (4,620 MW capacity).
  • Reliable Power Supply: A ring main unit ensures uninterrupted, competitively priced power for industries within the SEZ.

 

Conclusion

Adani Ports has revolutionised India’s maritime trade by offering an extensive port network, efficient logistics, and world-class infrastructure.

 With its strategic locations, multi-modal connectivity, and cost-effective solutions, APSEZ plays a crucial role in boosting India’s trade and economic growth. Whether for exporters, importers, or logistics providers, Adani Ports continues to redefine the future of maritime transportation in India.

 

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.

What Is the Price of 22-Carat Gold in Dubai Today, March 24, 2025?

Gold prices change daily due to global market trends, demand, and currency exchange rates.

Whether you’re an investor, jeweller, or buyer, keeping track of these fluctuations can help you make informed purchasing decisions. Read on to discover today’s gold rate in Dubai.

Dubai Gold Rate Comparison: Today vs. Previous Session

The table below shows the per-gram and 10-gram gold prices in Dubai for March 24, 2025, along with the 10-gram price from the previous session. All prices are in AED.

Type Per Gram (Today) 10 Grams (Today) 10 Grams (Previous Session)
24 Carat 363.75 3,637.50 3,645.00
22 Carat 337 3,370.00 3,375.00
21 Carat 323 3,230.00 3,235.00
18 Carat 277 2,770.00 2,772.50

Gold Price in Dubai Converted to Indian Rupees (INR) – 10 Grams Rate

The table below shows the price of 10 grams of gold in Dubai converted into Indian Rupees based on the exchange rate of 1 AED = 23.35 INR as of March 24, 2025.

Type 10 Grams (Today) in AED 10 Grams (Today) in INR
24 Carat 3,637.50 84,912
22 Carat 3,370.00 78,645
21 Carat 3,230.00 75,391
18 Carat 2,770.00 64,740

Conclusion

Gold prices in Dubai fluctuate daily, influenced by global trends and exchange rates. Staying updated helps investors and buyers make informed decisions.

 

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.