Polycab India Limited’s share price declined for the second consecutive session, trading at ₹5,068.45 at 11:30 AM on the NSE as of 21 March 2025, down 0.29% from its previous close of ₹5,083.40. The stock opened at ₹5,100 and fluctuated between an intraday high of ₹5,139 and a low of ₹5,040.10.

Adani Group’s Foray into Cables and Wires

In an exchange filing on March 19, 2025, Adani Enterprises, the flagship company of the Adani Group, revealed that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kutch Copper Ltd., has set up a joint venture (JV) called Praneetha Ecocables Ltd.

This move follows a similar announcement from the Birla Group’s UltraTech Cement last month.

Kutch Copper will hold a 50% stake in the new company, which will focus on manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of cables, wires, and metal products.

This development has brought Adani Enterprises into the spotlight, as investors assess the implications of its entry into the cables and wires sector.

The presence of a large corporate player like Adani is expected to intensify competition in the market.

Market Reaction: Share Prices Under Pressure

The announcement led to a sharp sell-off in incumbent cable stocks yesterday. KEI Industries dropped as much as 13.13%, Polycab India declined 8.84% and Havells India fell 4.42% during the day.

Competitive Landscape in the Cable Industry

The move by 2 major conglomerates—Adani and Birla—within a short span indicates growing interest in the sector, driven by rising infrastructure demand, industrial expansion, and increased electrification across India.

Conclusion

The entry of Adani Group into the cables and wires sector has introduced fresh competition, impacting market sentiment and existing players like Polycab, KEI, and Havells.

The sector’s evolving landscape, with growing interest from major conglomerates, highlights its potential for expansion amid rising infrastructure and industrial demand. Investors will closely watch how incumbents respond to the increasing competition and how Adani’s foray shapes the industry’s dynamics in the coming months.

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.

The merger of ICICI Securities and ICICI Bank is a significant development in the Indian financial sector. As the integration process unfolds, stakeholders—including investors and, clients —will require timely and accurate updates to stay informed. Here’s where they can find official information regarding the merger.

Stock Exchange Filings

In June 2023, ICICI Securities announced its decision to delist and operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of ICICI Bank.

The proposal received approval from shareholders in March 2024, with 72% of minority shareholders voting in favour. ICICI Bank’s board sanctioned the plan on 29 June 2023 and was shared through the stock exchange filings.

ICICI Bank and ICICI Securities are publicly traded entities, meaning they are required to disclose key information through stock exchange filings. Stakeholders can access the latest disclosures, merger-related documents, and financial updates on:

• BSE India
• NSE India

By searching for ICICI Bank or ICICI Securities, investors can track regulatory announcements and financial disclosures related to the merger.

SEBI and RBI Notifications

In November 2023, the Reserve Bank of India granted approval for ICICI Securities to be delisted and become a wholly owned subsidiary of ICICI Bank, subject to specific conditions.

Since mergers in the banking and financial sectors require regulatory approvals, stakeholders can also monitor updates from:

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

These authorities may release official circulars, approvals, or guidelines that impact the merger process.

Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

Both ICICI Bank and ICICI Securities have dedicated investor relations (IR) sections on their websites where shareholders can find:

• Earnings reports
• Merger timelines and impact analysis
• FAQs and presentations
• Contact details for investor queries

Conclusion

As the merger between ICICI Securities and ICICI Bank progresses, staying informed through official channels is crucial for stakeholders. By following these channels, investors and clients can track key developments, regulatory approvals, and the overall impact of the integration.

Ensuring access to credible information will help stakeholders navigate this transition with clarity and confidence.

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.

Bajaj Finance Limited’s share price surged to a fresh 52-week high, reaching ₹9,089, fresh 52-week high, during intraday trading on 21 March 2025.

The stock opened strong at ₹9,039.95, reflecting positive investor sentiment, before experiencing some fluctuations and settling at ₹8,841.80, up 1.87% at 10:25 AM on the NSE from its previous close of ₹8,679.65.

Bajaj Finance Announces Leadership Changes

Bajaj Finance Ltd.’s board of directors has approved key leadership transitions based on the recommendations of its nomination and remuneration committee.

At its board meeting on Thursday, the company announced that Rajeev Jain, currently serving as Managing Director, will be promoted to Vice Chairman in the capacity of an Executive Director for a 3-year term, starting from April 1.

Jain, whose tenure as Managing Director concludes on March 31, has been associated with the Bajaj Finserv Group since 2007, initially joining as the Chief Executive Officer of Bajaj Finance.

In 2015, he was appointed Managing Director, leading the company’s transformation from a single-product auto finance business into a diversified, technology-driven financial services powerhouse, as per news reports.

Additionally, he serves as Vice Chairman on the board of Bajaj Housing Finance Ltd., where he plays a strategic role in driving growth.

These leadership changes mark a significant step in Bajaj Finance’s ongoing expansion, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and excellence in financial services.

Bajaj Finance Q3 FY25 Performance

Bajaj Finance reported a strong Q3 FY25, with net interest income rising 23% YoY to ₹9,382 crore, while profit after tax grew 18% to ₹4,308 crore. The company recorded its highest-ever quarterly loan bookings at 12.06 million, a 22% increase from the previous year.

Its customer base expanded by 21% to 97.12 million, adding 5.03 million new customers in the quarter. Assets under management surged 28% YoY to ₹398,043 crore, with a quarterly rise of ₹24,119 crore, reflecting sustained business growth.

Conclusion

The stock reaching a new 52-week high indicates market interest, while Rajeev Jain’s promotion marks a key transition in the company’s leadership.

The Q3 FY25 results highlight notable growth in net interest income, profit, and customer base. These developments provide stakeholders with insights into the company’s ongoing business operations and financial standing.

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.

Container Corporation of India Ltd. (NSE: CONCOR), a leading Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under the Government of India, has made a significant announcement regarding the expansion of its logistics infrastructure.

The company has placed an order with M/s GATX India Pvt. Ltd. for the supply of 10 rakes of BLSS wagons on an operating lease for a period of 10 years, Container Corporation of India said in a press release on the stock exchanges.

Key Highlights of the Order

• Awarded Entity: M/s GATX India Pvt. Ltd.
• Entity Type: Domestic Company.
• Order Details: Supply of 10 rakes of BLSS wagons.
• Lease Period: 10 years.
• Delivery Timeline: Supplies to be completed in 435 days.
• Order Value: ₹192 crore (excluding GST).
• Promoter Group Interest: No interest of promoters or group companies in M/s GATX India Pvt. Ltd.
• Related Party Transaction: No, and the transaction is conducted at arm’s length.

Strategic Importance of the Order

The procurement of these BLSS wagons marks a major step in CONCOR’s continued efforts to modernise and expand its logistics fleet.

These specialised wagons are expected to enhance efficiency in freight movement, optimise operational costs, and support India’s growing demand for seamless multi-modal logistics solutions.

Share Price Performance

Container Corporation of India Limited’s share price was in focus as it recorded a modest gain of 0.44% on March 21, 2025, reaching ₹678.85 at 9:40 AM on the NSE. The stock opened at ₹680 and touched a high of ₹681.55 before dipping to a low of ₹675.85.

Conclusion

CONCOR’s decision to invest in new BLSS wagons highlights its proactive approach to enhancing India’s logistics infrastructure. This strategic move will not only boost operational efficiency but also support the country’s growing transportation demands.

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.

Bandhan Bank has joined forces with Salesforce to revolutionise its corporate and home loan processes. This strategic collaboration aims to harness artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and streamline the overall loan management system, as per a news report by the Economic Times.

AI-Driven Innovation in Banking

As a global leader in customer relationship management (CRM), Salesforce specialises in AI-driven solutions that optimise business processes.

By integrating these advanced technologies into its loan origination system, Bandhan Bank intends to improve its corporate and home loan segments, which together constitute around 47% of its total loan assets amounting to ₹1.32 lakh crore.

Ratan Kumar Kesh, Executive Director of Bandhan Bank, emphasised the benefits of this initiative in an interview with ET, stating, “This will help us reduce cost by 20% and improve efficiency by about 20%.”

Advancing Digital Banking Post Core System Upgrade

Since its core banking system upgrade in October 2023, Bandhan Bank has been rapidly enhancing its digital operations.

The integration of Salesforce’s AI-powered solutions marks a crucial step in this journey, enabling a seamless and automated loan process—from customer onboarding and credit assessment to loan approval, disbursal, and servicing.

Enhancing Customer Experience Through Technology

With digital transformation being a key priority, Bandhan Bank’s partnership with Salesforce is expected to provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for customers.

By automating processes and minimising manual intervention, the bank aims to improve loan turnaround times, increase transparency, and enhance service delivery.

Share Price Performance

Bandhan Bank’s share price traded at ₹141.35 at 9:25 AM on the NSE, reflecting a slight decline of 0.12% from its previous close of ₹141.52. The stock opened at ₹141.52, reaching a high of ₹141.99 and a low of ₹141 during early trading hours.

Conclusion

The partnership between Bandhan Bank and Salesforce highlights the growing importance of AI-driven digital transformation in the banking sector. With enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and streamlined loan processes, this collaboration is set to redefine the way financial institutions operate.

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.

Ashok Leyland, the flagship company of the Hinduja Group, has inaugurated a new manufacturing facility near Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, as per news reports.

The plant, located in Malavalli, spans 75 acres and is dedicated to producing both diesel and electric buses, including those under its electric vehicle division, Switch Mobility.

Key Highlights of the New Facility

• Production Capacity: The plant has an annual production capacity of 4,800 buses.
• Technological Advancements: Equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and a high level of automation to ensure superior quality standards.
• Skill Development and Employment: The facility includes the ‘Nalanda’ Learning Centre and an advanced service training centre to enhance workforce skills and generate employment opportunities in the region.
• Immediate Full-Scale Production: Production has already commenced, and due to a robust order book, the plant is expected to operate at full capacity from day one.

Strengthening Market Position

With this expansion, Ashok Leyland aims to reinforce its leadership as the top bus brand in India while maintaining its position among the top five global bus manufacturers.

The company sees the new facility as a critical step toward meeting the increasing demand for fully built buses in India.

Commenting on the launch, Ashok Leyland’s Managing Director and CEO, Shenu Agarwal, emphasised the company’s commitment to innovation and high-quality manufacturing. He highlighted that the facility’s advanced automation and modern infrastructure would enable the production of high-standard vehicles that align with the evolving needs of the market.

Share Price Performance

Ashok Leyland’s share price was trading at ₹207.90 at 2:45 PM on the NSE, reflecting a 1.07% increase from the previous close of ₹205.69. The stock opened at ₹207.06 and reached an intraday high of ₹209.50 while maintaining a low of ₹205.69.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Ashok Leyland’s new manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy.

With advanced automation, a strong production capacity, and a focus on skill development, the plant is set to strengthen Ashok Leyland’s market position in both diesel and electric bus segments.

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.

Muthoot Finance has revised its asset under management (AUM) growth projection for FY25, increasing its guidance to 40% from the earlier estimate of 25-30%. This adjustment reflects the company’s strong performance and increasing demand for gold loans.

Strong AUM Growth in FY25

The company has already achieved 38% AUM growth and expects to close the financial year at 40%. As of the December quarter, gold loan AUM stood at ₹92,964 crore, marking a 34.3% year-on-year rise and a 7.9% sequential increase.

The overall AUM, including non-gold segments, reached ₹97,487 crore, registering a 37% year-on-year growth.

Muthoot Finance informed the exchanges on March 14 that its gold loan AUM has surpassed ₹1 lakh crore.

The gold loan business remains the primary driver of this expansion, with demand coming from both rural and urban markets.

Guidance for FY26 and Growth Outlook

For FY26, Muthoot Finance has set a conservative AUM growth target of 15% but remains optimistic about surpassing this figure. Net interest margins (NIMs) are expected to be in the range of 10-11% for FY25 and 10-12% for FY26.

While the company is exercising caution in its microfinance portfolio due to short-term pressures, it continues to see significant potential in the gold loan segment.

The management remains confident in its ability to sustain growth, stating that competitive pricing and increasing customer demand will support business expansion.

In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Managing Director George Alexander Muthoot reiterated the company’s strong growth momentum, emphasising the rising preference for gold loans amid challenges in securing microfinance and personal loans.

Share Price Performance

Muthoot Finance Limited’s stock was trading at ₹2,387.35, reflecting a decline of ₹29.10 (-1.20%) from the previous close of ₹2,416.45. The stock opened at ₹2,425.35, reaching an intraday high of ₹2,435.40 and a low of ₹2,379.20.

Conclusion

Muthoot Finance’s upward revision of its AUM growth guidance for FY25 highlights the company’s strong performance, driven primarily by the increasing demand for gold loans. As the gold loan segment continues to expand, Muthoot Finance is well-positioned to capitalise on market opportunities while maintaining stable margins and long-term growth.

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.

Shares of leading cable and wires manufacturers, including KEI Industries, Polycab India, and Havells India, witnessed a sharp decline on March 20, 2025, after the Adani Group announced its entry into the segment.

This move follows a similar announcement from the Birla Group’s UltraTech Cement last month.

Adani Group’s Foray into Cables and Wires

In an exchange filing on March 19, 2025, Adani Enterprises, the flagship company of the Adani Group, revealed that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Kutch Copper Ltd., has set up a joint venture (JV) called Praneetha Ecocables Ltd.

Kutch Copper will hold a 50% stake in the new company, which will focus on manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of cables, wires, and metal products.

This development has brought Adani Enterprises into the spotlight, as investors assess the implications of its entry into the cables and wires sector.

The presence of a large corporate player like Adani is expected to intensify competition in the market.

Market Reaction: Share Prices Under Pressure

The announcement led to a sharp sell-off in incumbent cable stocks. As of 10:15 AM on the NSE, KEI Industries dropped 13.13% to ₹2,852.25, Polycab India declined 8.84% to ₹4,957.90, and Havells India fell 4.42% to ₹1,489.15.

Competitive Landscape in the Cable Industry

The move by 2 major conglomerates—Adani and Birla—within a short span indicates growing interest in the sector, driven by rising infrastructure demand, industrial expansion, and increased electrification across India.

Conclusion

While existing manufacturers may face near-term stock price pressure, their established market presence, distribution channels, and brand value could help them navigate this changing landscape.

Investors will be closely watching how these new entrants execute their expansion plans and how incumbent players respond to the evolving market dynamics.

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.