On February 19, 2025, Manappuram Finance Limited, a gold loan provider’s, share price closed at ₹202.76, showing a gain of ₹12.83 or 6.78% from its previous close of ₹189.33. The stock opened at ₹188.21 and reached a high of ₹206.68 during the trading session. The lowest point of the day was ₹187.25. Despite fluctuations, the stock managed to close near its high

Corporate Action History

Manappuram Finance has consistently declared interim dividends in recent months. On February 13, 2025, the company announced a ₹1 dividend, with the ex-date set for February 21, 2025. Earlier, on November 5, 2024, a similar ₹1 interim dividend was declared, with the ex-date on November 18, 2024.

The company also declared ₹1 per share as interim dividends on August 14, 2024, and May 24, 2024, with respective ex-dates on August 26, 2024, and June 5, 2024. Additionally, a ₹0.90 interim dividend was announced on February 7, 2024, with the ex-date on February 16, 2024.

Manappuram Finance: Leading the Gold Loan Sector

Manappuram Finance Limited is one of the leading non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) in India, primarily engaged in providing gold loans. Founded in 1992, the company has expanded its services across various financial products, including microfinance, insurance, and asset management.

Manappuram Finance operates through a vast network of branches across India, offering a convenient and quick way for customers to access loans against gold. With a strong emphasis on customer service and financial inclusion, the company has established itself as a trusted name in the Indian lending sector, catering to the diverse financial needs of individuals and businesses alike.

Conclusion

With Manappuram Finance’s ₹1 dividend record date set for tomorrow, February 21, 2025, the stock will trade ex-dividend tomorrow. This means investors purchasing the stock today will be eligible for the upcoming dividend payout.

The company’s consistent dividend history and strong market performance are likely to keep the stock in focus. Investors will be watching closely for any price movement as the ex-dividend date approaches.

 

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 BSE Sensex closed at 75,939.18, registering a modest decline of 28.21 points, or -0.04%. Similarly, the Nifty 50 ended at 22,932.90, down by 12.40 points, or -0.05%

Indian benchmark indices ended mostly unchanged on Wednesday, as gains in the financial sector helped offset losses in the pharma stocks due to concerns over tariff threats from Trump.

Top Gainers and Losers

BEL emerged as the top gainer, rising by 3.54% to ₹253.25, with a significant trading volume of 2,15,15,689 shares. Hindalco also performed well, gaining 2.70% to reach ₹627.95, supported by a volume of 61,01,640 shares.

On the other hand, the top losers included Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, which saw a decline of 2.48%, closing at ₹1167.75, with a trading volume of 30,62,075 shares. TCS also faced a loss of 2.28%, closing at ₹3785, with a volume of 43,66,517 shares.

Broader Market Indices Performance

The Nifty 50 index closed at 22,932.90, registering a minor decline of 0.05%. Meanwhile, the Nifty IT index took a harder hit, falling by 1.30% to close at 40,924.25.

Similarly, the Nifty Healthcare Index also faced downward pressure, slipping by 0.78% to settle at 13,363.85. These declines reflect a challenging session for key sectors in the Indian stock market today.

Oil Prices

As of February 19, 2025, at 04:00 PM, Brent Crude was trading at $76.37, up by 0.70%.

Conclusion

In conclusion, February 19, 2025, saw Indian benchmark indices end with minor losses, reflecting a mixed market sentiment.

While financial stocks provided some support, concerns over pharma stocks, especially in light of tariff threats from former President Trump, led to a lackluster performance in the broader market.

 

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 smallcap index has fallen around 22% from its peak, worsened by a significant 17.9% YoY earnings drop in Q3. Midcaps and large caps showed resilience with positive growth, but small caps saw a major downturn, exacerbated by downgraded earnings expectations. Key sectors like cement, private banks, and consumer stocks have been impacted.

Earnings Downturn Hits Smallcaps Hard

The cracks in India’s smallcap rally have widened, and the recent Q3 earnings season has worsened the outlook. Following an initial surge that drew retail investors, the smallcap index has plunged 22% from its peak.

As per news reports, earnings for smallcap companies saw a sharp 17.9% decline year-on-year (YoY) during the 9M FY25 period, a significant contrast to the 8.4% growth observed in midcaps and the 2.6% increase seen in large caps.

The downward pressure remains strong as smallcap earnings saw substantial downgrades, with estimates cut by 5.9%, compared to midcaps (3.4%) and largecaps (1.2%).

Government Capex Slowdown Impacts Smallcap Earnings

A closer look at the profit after tax reveals that the Nifty Midcap 100 index led with the fastest YoY growth at 48%, followed by small caps at 16%, and large caps at 13%.

However, smallcap growth was heavily impacted by troubles in a few financial stocks. Excluding those, smallcap stocks saw a more robust growth of 29%.

A slowdown in government capex spending, particularly in the first half of FY25, has also affected the revenue of companies tied to sectors such as railways and defence, resulting in delayed earnings as order flow stagnated.

Widespread Earnings Pressure Across Key Sectors

The devastation in earnings is spread across multiple sectors, making a swift recovery increasingly unlikely.

The cement and building materials sector has faced severe cuts of 11%, while private banks, consumer stocks, and retail companies have also been hit hard, seeing earnings downgrades of 9% or more.

Additional weakness in automobiles and chemicals adds to the overall pessimism surrounding the smallcap space. Given the widespread pressure and the ongoing downturn, the smallcap recovery remains uncertain, and investors face heightened risks in this segment.

Conclusion

The smallcap space, once a promising area for investors, is now facing significant headwinds, with a sharp 22% fall from its peak and a 17.9% YoY decline in earnings for Q3.

With earnings downgrades, government capex slowdowns, and a lack of order flow in key sectors like railways and defence, the path to recovery for smallcap stocks remains uncertain.

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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.

As the summer season approaches, several industries are likely to benefit from the seasonal demand spike driven by rising temperatures. Companies in power, beverages, cooling, hospitality, and water treatment sectors are poised to capitalise on the increased business activities.

Let’s check out some stocks to watch this summer season.

• Top Power Stocks to Watch this Summer

1. Tata Power Limited

Tata Power, a part of the Tata Group, this electric utility company generates, transmits, and distributes electricity with a focus on both conventional and renewable energy sources. Its installed capacity is 14,707 MW, with 5,847 MW from green energy sources.

2. Coal India Limited

A Maharatna company under the Indian government, Coal India is the world’s largest coal producer, contributing significantly to India’s coal production.

 

Summer Demand: Water Treatment Stocks

1. Va Tech Wabag Limited

Va Tech Wabag, specialises in water treatment technologies and solutions, this multinational company focuses on engineering and constructing water and wastewater treatment plants globally.

2. EMS Limited

EMS, an Indian company that offers services in water and wastewater treatment, focusing on sewage treatment plants (STPs), water treatment plants (WTPs), and wastewater disposal.

 

Beverages Sector Stocks for Summer

1. Varun Beverages Limited

A leading PepsiCo franchisee and one of India’s largest bottlers, Varun Beverages markets and distributes a wide variety of carbonated soft drinks and non-carbonated beverages.

2. Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)

India’s largest FMCG company, HUL offers a diverse product range including foods, beverages, cleaning agents, and personal care items.

 

Top HVAC and Cooling Stocks to Watch This Summer

1. KRN Heat Exchangers Limited

KRN Heat Exchangers, specialises in manufacturing and exporting heat exchangers and coils for HVAC&R applications, including condensers, water coils, and evaporators.

2. Voltas Limited

Part of the Tata Group, Voltas offers air conditioning and refrigeration solutions, catering to a variety of industries.

 

Top Hospitality Stocks to Watch

1. Wonderla Holidays Limited

A major player in the amusement park and resort industry in India, Wonderla provides a wide range of entertainment and recreational facilities.

2. Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)

Indian Hotels Company, south Asia’s largest hospitality company, part of the Tata Group, operating hotels, resorts, palaces, and providing in-flight catering services.

 

Retail and Consumer Goods Sector

1. Trent Limited

Trent, the retail arm of the Tata Group, operating a variety of retail chains in India, including Westside, Zudio, and Star Bazaar.

2. Honasa Consumer Limited (Mamaearth)

Co-founded by Ghazal Alagh, this company focuses on developing and marketing beauty and personal care products under the brand Mamaearth.

 

Conclusion

As the summer season approaches, various sectors stand to benefit from the seasonal upswing in demand. Companies in power, beverages, cooling, hospitality, water treatment, and retail sectors are well-positioned to capitalise on the increased consumption and business activities.

With rising temperatures driving demand for essential services and products, investors should keep an eye on stocks within these sectors for potential growth opportunities.

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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.

Apollo Micro Systems Limited has seen a significant surge in its share price, rising by 12.07% to ₹118.85 at 2:05 PM on the NSE. The stock opened at ₹106.10 and reached a high of ₹120 during the day, reflecting strong investor confidence.

This marks the first rise after three consecutive sessions of decline, during which the stock had fallen by approximately 12%

Order Win Details 

Apollo Micro Systems has secured orders totalling ₹12.07 crores from a private company and has been selected as the Lowest Bidder for ₹5.97 crores worth of orders from the Ministry of Defence, according to a press release issued on the stock exchanges.

Apollo Micro Systems Signs MoUs for Strategic Partnerships in Defence Sector

Last week, Apollo Micro Systems Limited entered into two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening its position in the defence sector. The first MoU was signed with Troop Comforts Limited for a strategic partnership focused on the joint manufacturing, marketing, and development of advanced Air-Defence systems, including Anti-Drone and Anti-Aircraft solutions.

This collaboration designed to address the current and future needs of various security forces, government organisations, the civil sector, and international markets.

Additionally, Apollo Micro Systems formally exchanged an MoU with Munitions India Limited for the joint development of various defence systems targeting both the domestic and international markets.

The MoU highlights a shared commitment to innovation and leveraging collective expertise to design and deploy advanced defence technologies. This development reinforces Apollo’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its footprint in the defence industry.

Conclusion

Apollo Micro Systems Limited’s recent surge in share price, driven by its successful contract wins and strategic MoUs, reflects the growing investor confidence in the company’s future prospects.

With the addition of significant orders and these strategic collaborations, Apollo Micro Systems is poised to leverage its expertise and innovation to drive growth in the rapidly evolving defence industry.

 

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.

Power Grid Corporation of India Limited’s share price traded at ₹263.75 at 1:40 PM on the NSE, marking a decline of ₹3.20, or 1.20%, from the previous close. The stock opened at ₹262.50 and reached a high of ₹268.50 and a low of ₹262.30 during the day.

Power Grid Corporation of India is making significant strides in expanding its power transmission network with the recent acquisitions of Khavda V-B1B2 and Bidar Transco Limited, bolstering its growth prospects in the sector.

Acquisition Details of the Khavda Power Transmission

This acquisition follows Power Grid’s emerging as the successful bidder under a Tariff Based Competitive Bidding process. Khavda V-B1B2 Power Transmission Limited operates in the power transmission sector, aligning with Power Grid’s core business of electricity transmission.

The deal was completed for a consideration of ₹65.1 million, and the acquisition did not require any governmental or regulatory approvals, the company said in a press release on the stock exchanges.

Additionally, the transaction will not be completed in tranches. The acquired entity operates solely within India.

Acquisition Details of the Bidar Transco Ltd

Power Grid emerged as the successful bidder under a Tariff Based Competitive Bidding process, and this acquisition aligns with their core business of power transmission.

Bidar Transco Limited, like Khavda V-B1B2, operates within the same industry, providing a strategic fit for Power Grid’s network expansion. The acquisition was made for a consideration of ₹65.2 million, and it does not require any governmental or regulatory approvals.

The company is engaged in the transmission of power and operates solely in India, the company said in a separate press release on the stock exchanges.

Conclusion

Power Grid Corporation of India’s recent acquisitions of Khavda V-B1B2 and Bidar Transco Limited signify a strategic expansion of its power transmission infrastructure, positioning the company for continued growth in the sector.

These moves enhance its capabilities in power transmission and strengthen its market presence 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.

On February 19, 2025, as of 12:30 PM, the Sensex had gained 37.34 to 75,995.75, while the Nifty50 was up 65.45 points at 23,010.75.

Mid-Day Top Gainers

 

• Bharat Electronics

Bharat Electronics opened at ₹240.70 and reached a high of ₹254, while the low for the day was ₹240.25. The previous close was ₹244.60, marking a current increase of ₹8.35 or 3.41%.

• Larsen & Toubro

Larsen & Toubro opened at ₹3,220.15 and climbed to a high of ₹3,302.85, with the day’s low at ₹3,211.60. The previous close was ₹3,220.15, showing a current rise of ₹71.85 or 2.23%.

• Axis Bank

Axis Bank opened at ₹991.65 and hit a high of ₹1,013.40, while the low was ₹988.15. The previous close was ₹994.15, resulting in a current increase of ₹18.85 or 1.90%.

• NTPC

NTPC opened at ₹311.20 and reached a high of ₹316.35, with the low recorded at ₹310.60. The previous close was ₹311.20, marking a rise of ₹4.65 or 1.49%.

• Hindalco

Hindalco opened at ₹607.00 and surged to a high of ₹622.05, while the low was ₹606.55. The previous close was ₹611.45, reflecting an increase of ₹8.10 or 1.32%.

 

Mid-Day Top Losers

 

• Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories opened at ₹1,166 and reached a high of ₹1,176.95, with a low of ₹1,127.50. The previous close was ₹1,197.40, showing a decrease of ₹31.80 or -2.66%.

• TCS

TCS opened at ₹3,872.20 and peaked at ₹3,874.95, with a low of ₹3,777.25. The previous close was ₹3,873.20, marking a drop of ₹74.90 or -1.93%.

• Hindustan Unilever

Hindustan Unilever opened at ₹2,298.75 and touched a high of ₹2,305.70, with the low at ₹2,262.65. The previous close was ₹2,296, showing a decrease of ₹32 or -1.39%.

• Bharti Airtel

Bharti Airtel opened at ₹1,670 and reached a high of ₹1,673.45, with the low recorded at ₹1,648.00. The previous close was ₹1,668.90, reflecting a decrease of ₹16.40 or -0.98%.

• Cipla

Cipla opened at ₹1,454.95 and rose to a high of ₹1,474, while the low was ₹1,426.35. The previous close was ₹1,482.10, indicating a decline of ₹14.15 or -0.95%.

 

Conclusion

As of midday on February 19, 2025, the market witnessed a blend of positive and negative movements. On the gaining side, Bharat Electronics, Larsen & Toubro, and Axis Bank led the charge, driven by strong investor sentiment and sectoral performance.

Meanwhile, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, TCS, and Hindustan Unilever experienced notable losses, impacted by broader market trends and stock-specific factors.

 

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 Indian government’s intervention comes after Infosys terminated 350 freshers at its Mysuru campus, who were unable to pass internal assessments despite being given multiple attempts.

These trainees had been hired in 2022, but were dismissed after failing tests in Java programming and database management, essential skills for their roles. Check out more details below.

Why Is NITES Complaining About Infosys’ Termination of 350 Freshers?

The Indian government has ordered an investigation into Infosys’ decision to terminate 350 trainees at its Mysuru campus, following a complaint filed by the IT employees’ union NITES. The freshers, who had received job offers in 2022, were dismissed after failing to pass internal assessments despite being given 3 attempts.

The Central government intervened in the matter, referring it to the Karnataka labour commissioner, urging prompt action. An official letter from the government noted the request for the Ministry of Labour and Employment to step in to address what is being termed as unlawful termination by Infosys, as per news reports

Infosys Face Backlash Over Terminating Trainees

The affected trainees were let go after failing to clear evaluations in Java programming and database management systems (DBMS), with a required passing mark of 65%. The trainees had been provided 3 opportunities to pass but were unable to meet the requirements.

This incident has drawn attention to similar actions taken by other IT firms. Wipro, for example, recently dismissed trainees who failed internal assessments, even after being onboarded, due to concerns over candidates’ technical skills.

As per Infosys, the delay in onboarding necessitated ensuring that candidates remained updated in their technical expertise.

IT Industry Faces Scrutiny Over Hiring Practices

The situation at Infosys highlights broader concerns in the IT industry regarding delayed onboarding and rigorous assessment procedures, which have led to job losses for many freshers who had waited over a year for employment.

Infosys’ actions come amid a slowdown in hiring within India’s IT sector, partly due to global economic uncertainty and slower deal pipelines.

Companies such as TCS, Wipro, and HCLTech have also scaled back fresher recruitment or delayed onboarding.

The outcome of the investigation by the Karnataka labour commission will set an important precedent for how IT companies handle the termination of trainees and the protection of employees’ rights in the industry. IT unions are calling for greater transparency and fairness in hiring and firing practices.

Conclusion

The termination of 350 freshers by Infosys, and the subsequent government intervention, has sparked a wider conversation about employment practices in India’s IT sector. With an increasing number of similar actions from other IT firms, the scrutiny surrounding hiring, onboarding delays, and employee rights is expected to intensify.

The outcome of the ongoing investigation will likely influence how tech companies handle such cases in the future, especially regarding transparency and fairness.

 

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.