Gold Price Touched All-Time High Amid Weaking Dollar and Rising Trade War

On April 17, 2025, Gold prices in India surged to a record high amid rising global economic uncertainty and renewed trade tensions between the United States and China. The price of 24-karat gold in India reached ₹97,310 per 10 grams, while 22-karat gold was priced at ₹89,200 per 10 grams, and 18-karat gold at ₹72,990 per 10 grams. This increase came despite a slight dip in global prices early in the day due to profit-taking.

Spot gold was trading at $3,339.37 per ounce, down 0.1%, after reaching a peak of $3,357.40 per ounce earlier in the session. US gold futures were up by 0.2% at $3,351.50 per ounce.

MCX Gold Surged to New High

On the domestic front, MCX Gold hit a record high on Thursday, April 17, fueled by growing concerns over the ongoing trade war and its potential impact on global economic growth. The US dollar’s weakness and strong spot demand also played a role in supporting gold prices. MCX Gold June 5 contracts surged to an all-time high of ₹95,935 per 10 grams during the session, and by 11:20 AM, the contract was up 0.03% at ₹95,685 per 10 grams.

In the previous session, MCX Gold June 5 contracts settled with a solid 2.42% gain at ₹95,710 per 10 grams, after hitting a record high of ₹95,740 during the day.

Why is the Gold Price Rising?

The gold prices reached new highs, driven by the increased demand for safe-haven assets and the weakness of the dollar. The US dollar’s decline against other currencies is also supporting gold prices, with the dollar on track for a fourth consecutive weekly loss.

Uncertainty surrounding President Trump’s tariff policies is another major factor influencing gold prices. Additionally, Trump has raised tariffs on China to a staggering 245%, intensifying the trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies.

Conclusion

The ongoing uncertainty stemming from Trump’s tariff policies is a key driver behind the rise in gold prices. Trump’s tariff actions could lead to higher inflation and unemployment in the US, contributing to uncertainty over the US Federal Reserve’s future interest rate decisions.

Also Read: Why Gold Prices Are Falling Instead of Rising?

 

 

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.

Mid-Day Top Gainers and Losers on April 17, 2025: Bharti Airtel and ICICI Bank Led Gainers

On April 17, 2025, as of 12:15 PM, the BSE Sensex was up 0.95% at 77,774.85, while the Nifty 50 was up 0.87% at 23,638.30. The mid-day top gainers and losers for the day are:

Mid-Day Top Gainers 

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
BHARTIARTL 1,834.00 1,879.90 1,825.70 1,872.40 2.73
ICICIBANK 1,362.00 1,392.50 1,360.10 1,392.10 2.63
ETERNAL 220.6 227.24 220.38 227.24 2.32
GRASIM 2,701.00 2,770.00 2,686.90 2,760.00 2.12
SUNPHARMA 1,695.00 1,729.80 1,687.40 1,725.80 1.93

Here’s a brief market update based on the top gainers:

Bharti Airtel

Bharti Airtel sees a notable rise of 2.73%, trading at ₹1,872.40.

ICICI Bank

ICICI Bank climbs 2.63%, reaching ₹1,392.10 on strong market sentiment.

Eternal

Eternal shines with a 2.32% increase, hitting ₹227.24.

Grasim Industries

Grasim Industries gains 2.12%, trading at ₹2,760.00 amid positive investor interest.

Sun Pharma

Sun Pharma rises by 1.93%, with the stock at ₹1,725.80.

Mid-Day Top Losers

Symbol Open High Low LTP %chng
WIPRO 235 237.1 232.15 234.95 -5.13
HEROMOTOCO 3,781.90 3,782.00 3,664.30 3,729.90 -1.37
TECHM 1,295.10 1,302.50 1,275.90 1,293.60 -1.15
INFY 1,398.00 1,400.00 1,378.30 1,397.80 -1.08
LT 3,214.10 3,215.00 3,162.40 3,194.10 -1.04

Here’s a brief market update on the top losers:

Wipro

Wipro faces a significant drop of 5.13%, now at ₹234.95.

Hero MotoCorp

Hero MotoCorp slips 1.37%, trading at ₹3,729.90 amid market correction.

Tech Mahindra

Tech Mahindra sees a 1.15% dip, down to ₹1,293.60.

Infosys

Infosys declines by 1.08%, at ₹1,397.80, due to profit-taking.

L&T

L&T drops 1.04%, settling at ₹3,194.10 amid sector-wide pullbacks.

 

 

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.

Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana: Check Eligibility, How to Download and More

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana is an innovative initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PMJAY). This program aims to provide free healthcare services to senior citizens aged 70 and above, addressing their specific medical needs with a focus on affordability and accessibility.

What is Ayushman Vaya Vandana?

Ayushman Vaya Vandana is a healthcare extension of the AB PMJAY scheme specifically for the elderly. It aims to provide free healthcare services for senior citizens, offer access to a wide network of government and private hospitals for cashless treatments and ensure financial support for expensive treatments, medications, and other healthcare-related expenses.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for Ayushman Vaya Vandana?

To apply for the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age: Applicants must be 70 years or older.
  • Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen.
  • Ayushman Bharat Beneficiary: Must be eligible under the AB PMJAY scheme.

How to Download the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card?

Follow these steps to download the card:

  1. Visit the Official AB PMJAY Portal: Go to the AB PMJAY website or the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Portal.
  2. Log in or Register: If you’re an existing beneficiary, log in with your registered details. New users should complete the registration by providing Aadhaar, contact information, and proof of age.
  3. Search for Ayushman Vaya Vandana: Look for the section dedicated to senior healthcare services or search directly for “Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card.”
  4. Download the Card: After verification, download the digital card in PDF format.

Important Documents Required for Registration

To download the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, ensure you have the following documents:

  • Aadhaar Card: Proof of identity and age.
  • Proof of Address: Utility bill, voter ID, or another government-issued document.
  • Age Verification Document: Birth certificate, passport, or any valid proof of age.
  • PMJAY Beneficiary Proof: Eligibility certificate or previous health card under AB PMJAY.

Conclusion

Ayushman Vaya Vandana is an extension of the AB PMJAY scheme, specifically designed to offer free healthcare services to senior citizens aged 70 and older. The program focuses on meeting their unique medical needs while ensuring that healthcare remains affordable and easily accessible.

 

 

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.

OfBusiness Raises ₹100 Cr from Cornerstone Ventures Ahead of 2025 IPO

The startups in India are witnessing astonishing growth as the Angel Investors, VC, and PE are growing investment in the Indian startups. Recently, OfBusiness, an industrial goods and services procurement platform, has raised ₹100 crore (approximately $11.7 million) in a fresh funding round led by Cornerstone Ventures.

OfBusiness IPO in 2H 2025

Interestingly, the company is gearing up for its initial public offering (IPO) in the 2H 2025. OfBusiness has secured over $650 million in funding, including a $325 million round led by Alpha Wave, Tiger Global, and SoftBank, which valued the company at $5 billion.

Use of Funds

Cornerstone Ventures made the latest investment through its second fund, a $200 million vehicle launched last year. The fund had its first close at $40 million in January and is targeting a second close by year-end.

According to a press release from the company, the new funds will be used to enhance digital adoption and expand financing access for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

About OfBusiness

Founded in 2016 by Asish Mohapatra, Ruchi Kalra, Vasant Sridhar, Bhuvan Gupta, and Nitin Jain, OfBusiness offers raw material procurement and financial solutions to SMEs in the manufacturing and infrastructure sectors.

Alpha Wave is the largest external stakeholder with a 19.16% stake, followed by Creation Investment and Matrix. Other key investors include SoftBank, Norwest, and Tiger Global. For FY24, OfBusiness reported a 25.8% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching ₹19,296 crore, up from ₹15,343 crore in FY23. Net profits also rose 30.2% YoY to ₹603 crore.

 

 

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.

M&A and PE Investments Rose 3 Year High in Indian Consumer Sector in Q12025

During Q1FY25, Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) along with private equity (PE) investments in India’s consumer and retail sector has reached its three-year high to ~$4 billion, according to Grant Thornton Bharat’s latest quarterly deal tracker.

Major Transactions in Q12025

Leading the activity were 2 major transactions: Singapore-based PE firm Temasek invested $1 billion for a 10% stake in Haldiram Snacks, while Wilmar International raised its stake in Adani Wilmar (now renamed AWL Agri-Business following the Adani Group’s exit) from 44% to nearly 75% through a $1.4 billion deal. These large-scale investments indicate rising investor confidence in India’s food processing and consumer goods sectors.

The total deal value in Q1 2025 was 3 times higher than the $1.28 billion recorded in Q1 2023, and more than double the $1.74 billion seen in Q1 2024. The volume of deals also rose sharply, hitting 139 compared to 78 in Q1 2023 and 102 in Q1 2024.

Growing Food & Beverage Segment

The food and beverage segment, in particular, is witnessing strong growth, driven by rising consumer demand for better-quality products and increased digital adoption by brands. We anticipate continued strategic consolidation and capital inflows, as companies showcase resilience, digital capabilities, and strong consumer engagement.

This consolidation trend was reflected in several strategic acquisitions: Hindustan Unilever (HUL) took over direct-to-consumer skincare brand Minimalist, ITC acquired frozen food brand Prasuma, and Adani Wilmar purchased GD Foods, known for its Tops range of sauces and pickles.

Conclusion

The surge in deal activity during Q1 2025 signals a renewed dynamism in India’s consumer and retail sector, driven by strong investor appetite, evolving consumer preferences, and digital-led business models.

 

 

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.

IRFC Share Price in Focus: Madras High Court Gave Interim Relief in ₹230.55 Crore Sales tax Matter

On April 16, 2025, Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited (IRFC) announced it had received an interim relief in its ongoing GST dispute. The Madras High Court has set aside a demand order amounting to ₹230.55 crore issued by the Assistant Commissioner (Sales Tax) and has remanded the case for fresh evaluation.

Direction by Madras High Court

The Hon’ble High Court of Judicature at Madras has allowed the Writ Petitions filed by the Company and set aside the impugned order dated 04.12.2024 of the Assistant Commissioner (ST) of the Demand order for an aggregate amount of ₹230.55 crore, and the matter is remanded to the respondent for fresh consideration.

The Hon’ble High Court has also directed the Company to submit its reply/objection within a period of four (4) weeks from the date of receipt of a copy of this order, along with supporting documents/material.

Following IRFC’s submission, tax authorities are required to issue a 14-day notice prior to conducting a personal hearing. The court also instructed that any new order must be issued only after giving the company an opportunity to be heard, and in full compliance with legal procedures.

IRFC Q4FY25 Result Release

On April 15, 2025, the company has scheduled its Board Meeting for April 29, 2025, wherein it will consider and approve the Audited Financial Results for the quarter and financial year ended March 31, 2025, and approval of the Market Borrowing programme of the company for the Financial Year 2025-26.

 

 

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.

Trump Slaps 245% Tariffs on China in Escalating Trade War

The trade war between China and the US has elevated to a new high as President Donald Trump commenced a fresh wave of sweeping tariffs on Chinese imports, some climbing as high as 245%. The significant move aligns with Trump’s ongoing ‘America First’ trade agenda and marks the latest in a series of tit-for-tat measures between the two global powers.

A White House factsheet, released on Tuesday night (April 15), framed the tariffs as a direct response to China’s recent export restrictions on critical raw materials and its retaliatory tariffs on American goods.

The Trump administration has accused Beijing of leveraging its control over key supply chains, The White House administration stated that the China is restricting exports of vital minerals like gallium, germanium, antimony, and more recently, rare earth magnets and 6 heavy rare earth elements, which are crucial to industries such as aerospace, defence, and semiconductors.

Factsheet by the White House

As per the factsheet by the White House, “China faces up to a 245% tariff on imports to the United States as a result of its retaliatory actions. This includes a 125% reciprocal tariff, a 20% tariff to address the fentanyl crisis, and Section 301 tariffs on specific goods, between 7.5% and 100%. “

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt commented on the deepening trade conflict, noting that while President Trump remains open to a trade deal, the onus is on Beijing to make the first move. In turn, China has said it would only consider negotiations if treated with respect, appointing a new lead for any potential talks.

Breakdown of New US Tariffs on Chinese Goods

The latest round of tariffs hits a wide array of goods, from electronics to clothing and medical devices. Here’s a snapshot of the updated tariff structure, as reported by The New York Times:

Product Category Tariff Imposed
Syringes and needles 245%
Lithium-ion batteries 173%
Squid (seafood) 170%
Wool sweaters 169%
Plastic dishes 159%
Toasters 150%
Electric vehicles 148%
Toys, dolls, puzzles 145%
Vitamin C 145%
Aluminium foil 75%
Car wheels 73%
Semiconductors 70%
Metal furniture 70%
Car door hinges 67%
Laptops 20%
Children’s books 0%

Also Read: How Trump’s 26% Reciprocal Tariffs Could Impact the Indian Stock Market?

Conclusion

The new tariff regime is far from uniform, with rates varying based on product type, material origin, and applicable exemptions. High tariffs on lithium-ion batteries (173%) will hit electric vehicle makers, electronics manufacturers, and energy storage companies especially hard. Similarly, a 70% duty on semiconductors is likely to strain US tech firms already grappling with global chip shortages.

 

 

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.

Upcoming IPO: Seshaasai Technologies Gets SEBI Nod for Public Offering

Seshaasai Technologies Limited, one of the leading players in payment, communication, and fulfillment solutions provider has received final approval from the market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), to float its initial public offering (IPO) for fundraising.

Seshaasai Technologies IPO Details

Seshaasai Technologies Limited had filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI on December 27, 2024. Seshaasai Technologies IPO will comprise a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to ₹600 crore, along with an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 39,37,008 shares by Pragnyat Pravin Lalwani and 39,37,007 shares by Gautam Sampatraj Jain. Seshaasai may also consider a pre-IPO placement of securities worth up to ₹120 crore, in consultation with its Book Running Lead Managers (BRLMs). If executed, the amount raised through this route will be adjusted against the fresh issue portion of the IPO.

Use of IPO Proceeds

Fresh issue

  • ₹195.33 crore for capital expenditure to expand its existing manufacturing facilities.
  • ₹300 crore for the repayment or prepayment of certain borrowings.
  • The remaining funds will be used for general corporate purposes.

The IPO is being managed by IIFL Capital Services Limited, ICICI Securities Limited, and SBI Capital Markets Limited as BRLMs, with Link Intime India Private Limited serving as the registrar. The equity shares are proposed to be listed on BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE).

About Seshaasai Technologies

Seshaasai Technologies is a Mumbai based provider of payment, communication, and fulfillment solutions, primarily catering to the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector. The company’s offerings are centered around robust data security and regulatory compliance. Utilising proprietary technology platforms, Seshaasai delivers scalable, recurring services that are essential for BFSI operations in India. Additionally, it provides Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to clients across diverse industries.

Financially, the company has demonstrated impressive growth. Its standalone revenue from operations grew at a CAGR of 52.21%, increasing from ₹672.56 crore in FY 2022 to ₹1,558.26 crore in FY 2024. During the same period, net profit jumped from ₹37.35 crore to ₹169.28 crore, marking a CAGR of 112.88%.

 

 

 

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.

GTPL Hathway Shares in Focus: Posted 10% Revenue Growth in Q4, Proposed Dividend of ₹2

On April 17, 2025, GTPL Hathway shares are on investors’ radar as the company released its earnings for the quarter (Q4FY25) and year ended March 31, 2025, wherein, it posted a growth in revenue and EBITDA. Additionally, the board of directors has recommended a dividend of ₹2 per share for FY25, representing 20% of the face value.

GTPL Hathway Q4FY25 Results

In Q4 FY25, the company reported a total revenue of ₹8,989 million, reflecting a 10% year-on-year growth. EBITDA for Q4 FY25 stood at ₹1,144 million, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 12.7% and an operating EBITDA margin of 22%. The company posted a Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹105 million for quarter ended March 31, 2025.

GTPL Hathway FY25 Earnings Overview

For the full fiscal year FY25, total revenue reached ₹35,072 million, marking an 8% annual increase, with broadband revenue growing by 4% year-on-year. For the entire fiscal year, EBITDA was ₹4,625 million, with a margin of 13.2% and an operating margin of 22%. The company reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of ₹479 million for FY25.

Segment Highlights

Digital Cable TV

The company reported 9.60 million active subscribers as of March 31, 2025, marking a year-on-year increase of 100,000. Paying subscribers also rose by 100,000 to reach 8.90 million. Subscription revenue from Cable TV amounted to ₹2,982 million for Q4 FY25 and ₹12,327 million for the full fiscal year. A key milestone during the year was the signing of the Grant of Permission Agreement (GOPA) with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, enabling the company to provide Headend-In-The-Sky (HITS) services for the next 10 years.

Broadband

The subscriber base grew by 25,000 year-on-year to reach 1.045 million. Broadband revenue saw a 4% year-on-year increase, totalling ₹1,358 million for Q4 and ₹5,456 million for FY25. The company’s homepass count stood at 5.95 million as of March 31, 2025, with 150,000 additions year-on-year, of which 75% is available for FTTX conversion. Broadband ARPU rose by ₹5 year-on-year to ₹465 per subscriber per month, while average monthly data consumption per user reached 396 GB, reflecting an 11% increase year-on-year.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Anirudhsinh Jadeja – Managing Director, GTPL Hathway Limited, said, “It pleases me to report that the company has sustained its subscriber base across both business divisions reflecting the resilience within operations in an overall challenging industry environment. We continue to remain optimistic about our long-term strategies and our initiatives to capitalize on the evolving consumer trends.”

He further added “The upcoming financial year will be pivotal as we look to enhance our capabilities for distribution of TV services with material benefits expected to accrue over the medium term. We are constantly enhancing the ambit of our offerings, upgrading and implementing technological innovations and focusing on providing consumer centric services. We will continue to evaluate opportunities for growth across our businesses.”

Conclusion

GTPL Hathway recorded growing momentum in its both businesses digital cable TV and Broadband. This has been evident by the growth of subscriber base in FY25.

 

 

 

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.

D’Decor Posts 20% Profit Growth Amid Modest Revenue Rise in FY24

India’s home décor market is booming, with double-digit growth fueled by rising disposable incomes and evolving lifestyles. Yet, amid this sector-wide surge, soft furnishings major D’Decor reported only modest top-line growth in FY24. Still, the company managed to deliver a strong bottom-line performance, with profits rising by over 20% during the year.

D’Decor FY24 Performance Overview

According to its consolidated financials filed with the Registrar of Companies (RoC), D’Decor’s revenue from operations grew by 4.2% year-on-year—from ₹783 crore in FY23 to ₹816 crore in FY24. The company added another ₹ 37 crore through non-operating income, taking its total revenue to ₹ 853 crore for FY24

On the expense side, procurement costs made up 39.2% of the total expenditure, amounting to ₹ 308 crore. Advertising spending saw a notable spike—up 173% year-on-year to ₹ 41 crore. Costs related to employee benefits, utilities, rent, freight, and other overheads pushed total expenses up by 4%, from ₹ 755 crore in FY23 to ₹ 785 crore in FY24.

Despite the subdued revenue growth, D’Decor’s profit rose to ₹ 53 crore in FY24 from ₹ 44 crore in the previous year—marking a 20.5% increase. Operationally, the company spent ₹ 0.96 to earn each rupee of revenue. Its financial metrics also showed improvement, with Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) rising to 14.09% and EBITDA margin reaching 17.80%.

As of March 2024, the company held total current assets of ₹ 547 crore, which included trade receivables worth ₹ 224 crore.

In an increasingly competitive market, D’Decor is up against both legacy brands and newer entrants like The Yellow Dwelling, Vaaree (backed by Peak XV), Furlenco, and Pepperfry. While the Indian home décor sector holds tremendous potential in terms of size and margins, it remains a fiercely contested space.

About D’Decor

D’Decor is a well-known name in the soft furnishings space, offering a range of products like curtains, upholstery, and bed and bath linens. The company exports to over 65 countries and maintains a strong domestic presence through its retail stores and online platforms. Notably, its entire revenue during FY24 came from the sale of fabrics and made-ups, though the firm did not disclose a split between domestic and international markets.

 

 

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