OECD Lowers India’s Growth Forecast for FY26 and FY27

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has revised India’s growth projections downward for the coming years, citing economic uncertainty and global challenges. While the country is expected to maintain its position as the fastest-growing major economy, the latest estimates reflect a more cautious outlook compared to previous forecasts.

India’s Growth Outlook Revised Downward

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has reduced India’s growth forecast for FY26 to 6.4% from its earlier estimate of 6.9%, citing economic uncertainties. The 38-member organisation also lowered the projection for FY27 to 6.6% from 6.8%. Despite this, India is set to retain its position as the fastest-growing major economy over the next two years.

For the current fiscal year, growth is estimated at 6.3%, with a slight increase to 6.4% in FY26. The OECD’s projection is more conservative than that of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which maintained a 6.7% forecast for FY26 in its February outlook. The Economic Survey placed India’s growth within the range of 6.3% to 6.8% for the same period.

Inflation Concerns and Global Economic Trends

The OECD also raised its inflation forecast for the coming fiscal year to 4.5%, up from 4.2%, diverging from the RBI’s outlook. However, inflation is expected to decline to 4.1% in FY27.

Speaking on global economic conditions, OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann said, “The global economy has shown some real resilience, with growth remaining steady and inflation moving downwards. However, some signs of weakness have emerged, driven by heightened policy uncertainty.”

Cormann also highlighted concerns over trade restrictions, stating, “Increasing trade restrictions will contribute to higher costs both for production and consumption. It remains essential to ensure a well-functioning, rules-based international trading system and to keep markets open.”

Conclusion

While India’s growth prospects have been slightly downgraded, it remains the fastest-growing major economy. The OECD’s cautious stance on inflation and trade highlights potential risks, even as global economic resilience persists.

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. 

RITES Secures Contract Worth $10.80 Million from Ntokoto Rail Holdings

RITES Ltd. has received an addendum to its contract with Ntokoto Rail Holdings Pty. Ltd., increasing the total order value from $5.40 million (CIF) to $10.80 million (CIF). The additional work involves the supply and commissioning of overhauled in-service Cape Gauge ALCO Diesel Electric Locomotives, which will include new Cape Gauge Bogies, Traction Motors, and an updated Control System.

Contract Details

The work will be executed at a nominated facility, where the locomotives will be overhauled before being delivered. The contract also includes an on-site warranty support period of one year. The execution timeline for the additional work is six months from the date of advance payment.

This is an international contract, with Ntokoto Rail Holdings Pty. Ltd. awarding the work. The contract does not fall under related party transactions, and no promoter or promoter group of RITES has any interest in the awarding entity.

Market Update

As of March 18, 11:37 AM, RITES Ltd. is trading at ₹210.50, up ₹6.14 (3.00%) for the day, while showing a decline of 38.11% over the past six months and 33.39% over the past year.

Conclusion

The original contract, announced earlier, covered the supply of overhauled Cape Gauge ALCO Diesel Electric Locomotives. The new order adds to this scope, incorporating additional locomotives with upgraded components.

RITES is to complete the additional work within the agreed six-month period. The company has not disclosed further details regarding specific delivery timelines beyond the mentioned execution window.

This update was shared with the stock exchanges under Regulation 30 of SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.

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.

Cellecor Gadgets Expands in South India with B New Mobiles, Celekt, Partnership

Cellecor Gadgets Limited has announced its expansion in South India through a partnership with B New Mobiles and Celekt, two retail chains with a huge presence in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra. The company expects this collaboration to contribute ₹500 crore in annual business, as per the filing.

As of 10 AM on March 18, 2025, Cellecor Gadgets Limited was trading at ₹54.90, hitting a high of ₹55.40, marking a 4.64% increase from its previous close of ₹52.75. The stock touched a low of ₹54.25 and is currently trading at ₹55.20, with a market capitalisation of ₹1,201.58 crores.

Retail Expansion 

B New Mobiles operates 141 stores across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, focusing on mobile phones, electronics, and home appliances. The company has been in the industry for over 30 years. Celekt, which has 117 stores, provides a range of electronic products, including smartphones, smart TVs, and accessories, with a presence in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.

Through this partnership, Cellecor has plans to expand its product reach and strengthen its offline retail presence in South India. The company currently sells smart gadgets, wearables, mobile phones, and home and kitchen appliances, among other electronic products.

Growth and Distribution Strategy

Cellecor, which started in 2012 as Unity Communications, has grown into a consumer electronics company offering a variety of devices under its own brand. The company sources its products from various assemblers and manufacturers and focuses on making electronic devices available at different price points.

The collaboration with B New Mobiles and Celekt is to provide wider retail distribution, increasing access to Cellecor products in important cities and towns. Reports suggest that both retail chains have established customer bases and distribution networks, which will help expand Cellecor’s presence in offline retail markets.

Conclusion

Cellecor Gadgets Limited is listed on the NSE EMERGE (SME Platform of NSE) under the symbol CELLECOR. The company focuses on retail partnerships to scale its operations in different regions.

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.

SBI Mutual Fund Introduces Two New PSU Bank Investment Schemes

SBI Mutual Fund has introduced two new passive schemes – SBI BSE PSU Bank Index Fund and SBI BSE PSU Bank ETF, that will track the BSE PSU Bank Index. These funds provide exposure to India’s public sector banking sector and will be available for subscription during the New Fund Offer (NFO) period from March 17 to March 20, 2025.

Scheme Details

The SBI BSE PSU Bank Index Fund is an open-ended index fund, while the SBI BSE PSU Bank ETF is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that will be listed on the NSE and BSE. Both funds aim to replicate or track the performance of the BSE PSU Bank Index.

Strategy and Allocation

At least 95% of the total assets of these funds will be invested in securities that are part of the BSE PSU Bank Index. The remaining 5% may be allocated to government securities, tri party repos, and liquid mutual funds for liquidity management. The benchmark index for both schemes is the BSE PSU Bank TRI.

During the NFO period, investors can subscribe to these funds with a minimum investment of ₹5,000. Additional investments can be made in multiples of ₹1.

Fund Management

The funds will be managed by Viral Chhadva, who is also responsible for SBI’s Nifty 500 Index Fund, Nifty50 Equal Weight Index Fund, and Nifty50 Equal Weight ETF.

Conclusion

As passive funds, these schemes are to track the BSE PSU Bank Index. The performance of these funds is also subject to market risks. Both funds provide a structured way to invest in PSU banks.

Ensure steady returns with systematic withdrawals! Estimate your withdrawals with our SWP Calculator and manage your finances seamlessly.

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. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Nifty Bank Eyes March Gains: Will It End the Losing Streak?

The Nifty Bank Index consists of the most liquid and large-cap Indian banking stocks, serving as a key benchmark for tracking the capital market performance of Indian banks. The index is composed of a maximum of 12 banking companies listed on the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). It is computed using the free-float market capitalisation method, ensuring that only actively traded shares are considered.

The index is widely used for benchmarking fund portfolios, launching index funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and structuring financial products. Due to its focus on banking stocks, the index is considered a reflection of the health and sentiment of the Indian banking sector.

Nifty Bank’s Performance on March 17, 2025

On March 17, 2025, the Nifty Bank outperformed the Nifty 50 by ending 0.61% higher, while the broader Nifty 50 index gained 0.50%. The advance-decline ratio favoured advances, with 8 stocks closing in the green, whereas 4 stocks ended in the red.

March 2025: A Positive Turn for Nifty Bank

Interestingly, on a month-to-date (MTD) basis, the Nifty Bank has turned positive with a modest 0.02% gain so far in March 2025. This small upward movement is significant as it marks a potential end to 3 consecutive months of losses from December 2024 to February 2025.

If this positive trend continues, it would make March the 4th consecutive year of gains for the Nifty Bank Index. In previous years, the index recorded the following gains in March:

  • 2024: +2.18%
  • 2023: +0.84%
  • 2022: +0.46%

In contrast, the index faced back-to-back declines in March 2020 and 2021, registering losses of -34.32% and -4.31%, respectively.

Conclusion

The Nifty Bank Index plays a crucial role in tracking the performance of India’s banking sector. The recent trend reversal in March 2025 after 3 months of decline suggests a potential return of investor confidence. As historical data shows, March has often been a favourable month for the index, with consistent gains over the past few years. However, market movements depend on various macroeconomic factors and investor sentiment, making it essential to monitor trends closely.

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.

FINNIFTY Outperforms; Eyeing For 4th Straight Year of Gain in March

The Nifty Financial Services Index (FINNIFTY) is a sectoral index that represents the performance of India’s financial sector. It comprises banks, financial institutions, housing finance firms, insurance companies, and other financial service providers. The index consists of 20 stocks listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and is computed using the free float market capitalisation method. This ensures that the index reflects the real-time value of publicly available shares relative to a predetermined base value.

Purpose and Utility of FINNIFTY

FINNIFTY serves multiple functions in the financial ecosystem. It is commonly used for benchmarking mutual fund portfolios, structuring exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and creating financial derivatives such as index funds and structured products. Investors and market participants closely monitor the index to gauge the overall health of the financial services sector in India.

FINNIFTY’s Recent Performance

As of 3:21 PM on March 17, 2025, FINNIFTY surged over 1%, outperforming the broader market indices. This marked its sharpest single-day gain in over a month, with the last comparable movement seen on February 4, 2025. Among the 20 stocks in the index, 19 were trading in the green, with only one registering a decline.

March Gains: A Continuing Trend

So far in March 2025, FINNIFTY has gained 2.20%, reinforcing a strong upward trend. This performance places the index on track to record gains in March for the 4th consecutive year. In previous years, the index registered gains of:

  • March 2022: 1.24%
  • March 2023: 0.38%
  • March 2024: 2.85%

Conclusion 

The consistent positive momentum in March highlights the resilience of the Indian financial services sector, reflecting investor 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. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Nifty Smallcap 100 Records Best March Performance in the Last 3 Years

The Nifty Smallcap 100 Index represents the small-cap segment of the financial market. It comprises 100 tradable stocks listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and is computed using the free-float market capitalisation method. This means the index level reflects the total free-float market value of all constituent stocks relative to a specific base market capitalisation.

Investors, fund managers, and financial institutions utilise the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index for various purposes, including:

Current Market Performance of Nifty Smallcap 100

The index began the session on a positive note, crossing the 15,000 mark and reaching an intraday high of 15,096.10. However, by 3:08 PM on 17 March 2025, it was trading 0.56% higher, slightly below the 15,000 level.

Despite the upward move, the overall market breadth tilted towards declines, with 52 stocks in the red compared to 48 stocks gaining at the time of observation.

Historical Performance and March 2025 Gains

While the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index has been under pressure since its peak in December 2024, registering a 24.4% decline, and losing 20.2% year-to-date (YTD) in 2025, its recent performance in March 2025 signals resilience.

  • March 2025 gains so far: 1.90% – the best in 3 years.
  • March 2024 performance: -4.42%
  • March 2023 performance: -1.76%

The last time the index saw a significant decline in March was in 2020 when it plunged 36.66% due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Conclusion

The Nifty Smallcap 100 Index is showing signs of strength in March 2025, marking a break from the downtrends observed in the past two years. While the index remains below its December 2024 highs, the positive momentum this month could indicate a shift in market sentiment within the small-cap segment. However, it is essential to monitor broader market trends and economic factors influencing small-cap stocks 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.

Where to Invest ₹1,000? Here’s How to Start Investing with a Small Amount!

Remember when ₹50 could get you a balcony seat in a cinema? Today, that amount barely covers parking fees. This is inflation at play—reducing the purchasing power of your savings over time. If your money doesn’t grow at a rate higher than inflation, it is effectively losing value.

Saving is important, but without investment, your wealth won’t keep up with rising prices. Even a small monthly investment of ₹1,000 can create long-term financial security if done smartly.

Why Should You Invest?

Inflation acts like a silent thief, eroding your savings year after year. Consider this:

  • ₹1,000 today may not have the same value in the next 5 years.
  • Investment helps grow wealth and beat inflation.
  • Even small investments can compound over time and build financial security.

With financial awareness on the rise, more individuals are turning to investing. For instance, the Nifty 50 index surged nearly 24% in 2021, attracting more retail investors. But can the stock market always deliver such high returns?

Stock Market vs Mutual Funds – Where to Invest ₹1,000?

For those willing to take risks, investing ₹1,000 in small-cap stocks offers the potential for higher returns. Small-cap stocks have significant growth opportunities but also face extreme volatility.

  • In 2024, small-cap stocks delivered 24% returns.
  • However, in 2025 YTD, they are down by 20%, highlighting the risks involved.

Investing directly in stocks demands market knowledge and continuous tracking. With limited funds, building a well-diversified portfolio can be challenging, increasing risk exposure.

Mutual Funds – A Simpler Approach

If you don’t have the time or expertise to track stocks, mutual funds provide a structured way to invest.

  • Choti SIPs (Small SIPs) allow investors to start with as little as ₹250, ₹500 or ₹1,000 per month.
  • Professional fund managers handle stock selection, making it an accessible choice for beginners.

Mutual funds offer diversification and reduce the effort required to manage investments. While returns may not be as high as direct stock investments in a bull market, they provide stability and help mitigate risk.

Final Thoughts

Investing even a small amount like ₹1,000 per month can set the foundation for long-term financial growth. Whether you choose stocks or mutual funds depends on your risk appetite and investment knowledge. The key is to start early, stay consistent, and let your money work for you.

Ready to watch your savings grow? Try our SIP Calculator today and unlock the potential of disciplined investing. Perfect for planning your financial future. Start now!

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. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

RMC Switchgears Secures ₹320 Crore Rooftop Solar Project in Rajasthan

RMC Switchgears Limited has received a ₹320 crore Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the Government of Rajasthan to install rooftop solar systems across state government buildings in Jaipur and Dausa. This initiative, executed under the Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM), marks a significant step in India’s renewable energy expansion.

Project Overview and Financial Impact

The project involves designing, supplying, erecting, and commissioning rooftop solar installations with a total capacity of 50 MW. RMC will also oversee operations and maintenance (O&M) for 25 years, ensuring long-term sustainability. The LOA includes a one-time revenue opportunity of ₹229 crore and recurring revenue of ₹91 crore over the next 25 years, establishing a stable income stream for the company.

Strategic Significance and Future Growth

This contract reinforces RMC’s position in India’s clean energy transition. Rajasthan’s commitment to solar-powered government buildings aligns with RMC’s expansion strategy in Solar EPC and Independent Power Production (IPP). The company’s investment in solar module manufacturing further strengthens execution efficiency and value creation, supporting India’s broader renewable energy objectives.

RMC Switchgears Share Performance 

As of March 17, 2025, at 2:5PM, the RMC Switchgears share price are locked at an upper circuit limit ₹574.65 per share, reflecting a surge of 5% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a decline of 21.28%

Conclusion

By securing this project, RMC Switchgears strengthens its foothold in the solar energy sector while contributing to India’s clean energy vision. The long-term revenue potential and strategic alignment with national goals make this a milestone achievement for the company.

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.

Will Central Govt Employees Get Their 3 DA Installments Frozen During the Pandemic?

The Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers has once again brought attention to multiple unresolved demands of government employees and pensioners. Among these, a key issue is the unpaid dearness allowance (DA) arrears that were frozen during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a circular issued by the Confederation on March 7, 2025, employees have been persistently demanding the resolution of this issue, along with several other concerns. The government, however, has yet to take any concrete action on these demands.

What Led to the Protest?

On February 8, 2025, the Confederation’s National Executive Meeting decided to organise nationwide protests, including gate meetings and general body meetings on March 10-11. The objective is to create awareness among employees and prepare them for further demonstrations.

The Confederation accuses the government of prolonged inaction and failing to fulfil its obligations towards employees, further intensifying the discontent among workers.

Key Demands of the Confederation

The Charter of Demands presented by the Confederation includes several crucial employee-centric issues:

  1. Formation of the 8th Pay Commission (8th CPC) – The Confederation demands the appointment of a committee, including the chairman, for salary revisions.
  2. Restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) – The organisation seeks the abolition of the New Pension Scheme (NPS).
  3. Payment of Frozen DA Arrears – Employees demand the release of 3 DA installments withheld from January 2020 to June 2021.
  4. Revision of Pension Deductions – The Confederation wants the deducted pension amount to be restored in 12 years instead of 15 years.
  5. Compassionate Job Appointments – The Confederation demands the removal of the 5% limit on compassionate job appointments and urges the government to employ all eligible applicants.
  6. Filling of Vacant Government Posts – It seeks the immediate recruitment of employees and calls for an end to outsourcing and privatisation in government departments.
  7. Freedom for Employee Unions – The Confederation insists on allowing employee organisations to function democratically without government interference.

Understanding the DA Arrears Issue

Dearness Allowance (DA) is increased twice a year—in January and July—to help employees cope with inflation. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the central government decided to freeze DA hikes for 18 months. This decision affected the wages of millions of government employees and pensioners, leaving them without the benefit of three DA installments.

The employee unions argue that the arrears should be paid since DA is a right, not a privilege. However, the government has consistently refused to release these arrears, citing financial constraints.

Will the Government Pay DA Arrears?

The government has repeatedly declined the demand for DA arrears, asserting that it is not financially viable. It has maintained that:

  • The pandemic-induced economic crisis severely affected government revenues.
  • Funds were diverted towards welfare schemes and economic recovery measures.
  • Fiscal constraints make it impractical to release arrears, given the economic impact of the crisis.

The Modi government has reiterated its stance that arrears for FY 2020-21 cannot be granted due to fiscal spillovers from pandemic-related expenditures.

What Happens Next?

Despite the government’s firm position, the Confederation has vowed to continue its protests. Union leaders have urged employees to participate in meetings and demonstrations to strengthen their 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.