ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund Declares Income Distribution in Arbitrage Fund

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has announced an income distribution of ₹0.05 per unit under both the regular and direct IDCW options of the ICICI Prudential Equity Arbitrage Fund. The record date is March 3, 2025, meaning investors holding units on this date will receive the payout.

Fund Basics

The ICICI Prudential Equity Arbitrage Fund was launched on January 1, 2013. Since its inception, it has delivered an average return of 7.04%. As of January 31, 2025, the fund has total assets worth ₹25,324 crore. The expense ratio stands at 0.39%.

The fund follows the NIFTY 50 Arbitrage TRI benchmark and is categorized as low risk according to the riskometer. It is an open-ended scheme, meaning investors can enter or exit at any time without restrictions.

Portfolio Allocation

The fund’s investments are spread across different asset classes:

  • Debt: 26.98%
  • Cash & Cash Equivalents: 73.19%
  • Equity: -0.18%

Investment Details

The fund requires a minimum investment of ₹5,000. Additional investments can be made with at least ₹1,000. For Systematic Investment Plans (SIP), the minimum amount is ₹1,000, and withdrawals start at ₹1. There is no minimum balance requirement. 

Investors making withdrawals within 30 days of investment will be charged an exit load of 0.25%. There is no lock-in period.

Investment Strategy

The fund primarily focuses on arbitrage opportunities, buying and selling assets in different markets to benefit from price differences. This approach aims to provide returns with low volatility. It also holds short-term debt investments to manage risks and liquidity.

Conclusion

Investors considering this fund should note the March 3, 2025 record date to ensure they are eligible for the payout.

Before investing, consider your individual financial goals and consult with a registered financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Want to plan regular withdrawals? Our SWP Calculator helps you calculate how much you can withdraw while keeping your investments intact. Try it 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.

RVNL Secures ₹135.66 Crore LOA from Central Railway for Railway Electrification

RVNL has secured a contract from Central Railway for a traction substation project in the Bhusaval-Khandwa section to enhance railway efficiency.

Project Overview 

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has received an official acceptance letter from Central Railway. The project involves designing, supplying, installing, testing and commissioning a 132/55 KV Traction Substation, along with sectioning and sub-sectioning posts in the Bhusaval-Khandwa section. The goal is to support a 3,000 MT loading capacity under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) model.

Project Scope & Key Details 

Central Railway has awarded this contract as a domestic project. It includes setting up a 2 x 25 KV traction system with a Scott Connected Transformer to improve railway electrification. The project is planned to be completed in 24 months and is worth ₹135.66 crore, including taxes. 

Business Impact

This contract is part of RVNL’s routine operations and aligns with its core business. This work will help make railway operations in the Bhusaval-Khandwa section more efficient and reliable.

About the Company 

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is a government-owned enterprise specialising in railway infrastructure development across India. The company handles the planning, designing and execution of railway projects, including electrification, track laying and signalling systems, contributing to the modernisation of India’s railway network.

Share Price Performance 

As of February 28, 2025, at 10:30 AM, the shares of RVNL were trading at ₹344.15 per share, reflecting a loss of 1.69% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a loss of 27.75%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹647 per share, while its low is ₹213.05 per share.

Conclusion

This contract win strengthens RVNL’s position as a key player in railway infrastructure development. By implementing advanced electrification solutions, the company continues to improve railway operations, contributing to India’s growing transportation sector.

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

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

Ayushman Bharat in Delhi: Why the ₹10 Lakh Coverage?

In a significant policy shift, the newly elected Delhi government has approved the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in the national capital. 

This move is poised to offer comprehensive health insurance coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family, targeting the economically vulnerable sections of society. The scheme’s rollout is anticipated to benefit around 6.54 lakh families in Delhi, marking a substantial enhancement in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

Collaborative Efforts Between Central and State Governments

The successful deployment of AB-PMJAY in Delhi is the result of collaborative efforts between the central and state governments. Under this scheme, the central government will contribute ₹5 lakhs, while the Delhi government will provide an additional ₹5 lakh, totalling ₹10 lakhs, effectively doubling the insurance coverage per family. 

Preparations are underway, with the National Health Authority (NHA) initiating training programs for Delhi’s health officials, personnel, and ASHA workers. These programs focus on creating Ayushman Bharat cards, settling claims, and registering hospitals to ensure a seamless implementation of the scheme. 

Expansion of Healthcare Facilities and Beneficiary Inclusion

Currently, 66 hospitals in Delhi, encompassing both private and government institutions, are empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat Yojana Scheme. With the formation of district committees and the State Health Agency, this number is expected to increase, providing beneficiaries with a broader network of healthcare facilities. 

The scheme aims to cover a diverse group of beneficiaries, including over six lakh senior citizens aged above 70, approximately 1,500 Anganwadi workers, and around 6,000 ASHA workers and is likely to have 6,50,000 beneficiaries if the government manages to sign 40% of the bottom population. The Delhi government is in the process of finalising the list of beneficiaries, ensuring that the most vulnerable sections of the population receive the intended benefits. 

Conclusion

Implementing the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana in Delhi signifies a pivotal advancement in the city’s healthcare landscape. By providing substantial health insurance coverage, the scheme is poised to alleviate the financial burdens associated with medical expenses for numerous families. 

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. 

Tata Motors Share Price Drops to a 15-Month Low

Tata Motors’ share price fell by 1.97% to ₹648.55 on February 27, 2025, marking its 4th consecutive day of decline. The stock has shed over 6% in the last 4 trading sessions, reaching an intraday low of ₹645.65—its weakest level in 15 months.

Over the past 6 months, Tata Motors’ stock has seen a sharp correction, declining by 40%, while the benchmark Sensex has dropped by 8.61% during the same period.

Q3FY25 Financial Performance: Key Highlights

Despite a marginal rise in revenue, Tata Motors’ financial performance for Q3FY25 reflected a mixed trend:

  • Revenue: The consolidated topline for Q3FY25 stood at approximately ₹1.13 lakh crore, marking a 2.7% year-on-year (YoY) increase.
  • EBITDA & Margins:
    • Overall EBITDA stood at around ₹15,800 crore, with EBITDA margins at 13.9%, reflecting a 49-basis-point quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) decline.
    • Jaguar Land Rover (JLR), Tata Motors’ overseas luxury passenger vehicle (PV) segment, reported EBITDA margins of 14.2% (up 250 bps QoQ).
    • The Indian commercial vehicle (CV) business registered EBITDA margins of 12.4% (up 160 bps QoQ).
    • The passenger vehicle (PV) segment posted EBITDA margins of 7.8% (up 160 bps QoQ).
  • Profit After Tax (PAT): PAT for Q3FY25 stood at ₹5,451 crore, witnessing a 22% YoY decline.
  • PLI Scheme Support: Margins in the Indian PV and CV segments were bolstered by benefits from the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for FY24 and accrued incentives for YTDFY25.

February Performance: A Historically Weak Month for Tata Motors

An interesting historical trend reveals that Tata Motors’ stock has typically struggled in February. Since 2016, it has managed to close the month in positive territory only twice—registering gains of 22.93% in 2021 and 7.46% in 2024.

However, February 2020 saw the stock suffer its steepest decline in over a decade, dropping 26.98%, marking its worst February performance since 2009.

Conclusion

With the stock currently at multi-month lows and market sentiment remaining cautious, investors will closely monitor Tata Motors’ next set of financials. 

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.

Bank of India’s Share Price Sees a 14% Decline in February

Bank of India (BoI) ranks as the 6th largest public sector bank in India, holding a net advances market share of approximately 3.5% and a deposit market share of around 3.6% as of the first half of FY25. The bank operates an extensive network, comprising 5,202 domestic branches and 22 overseas branches as of Q3FY25.

Share Price Performance in February 2025

At 3:24 PM on February 27, 2025, Bank of India’s share price was trading at ₹96.74, marking a 1.36% decline for the day. The stock has seen a cumulative drop of 14% in February, while its year-to-date (YTD) performance reflects a 5% decline. 

Q3FY25 Financial Performance

For the third quarter of FY25, the Bank of India reported a 35% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase in net profit, reaching ₹2,517 crore. This significant growth was driven by an improvement in net interest income (NII) and strong treasury operations.

Sequentially, the bank’s net profit rose by 6% compared to the ₹2,374 crore recorded in the September quarter of 2024. Managing Director and CEO R Karnatak attributed this profitability to contributions from core operations, including NII, commissions, cross-selling activities, and gains from investment sales.

Net Interest Income and Margins

The bank’s NII saw an 11% Y-o-Y increase, reaching ₹6,070 crore in Q3FY25 compared to ₹5,463 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. However, the net interest margin (NIM) moderated slightly to 2.80% in Q3FY25 from 2.85% in Q3FY24. The bank has projected NIMs to remain in the range of 2.85%–2.89% for FY25.

Strong Non-Interest Income Growth

Non-interest income, which includes fees, commissions, treasury revenues, and recoveries, witnessed a 46% Y-o-Y surge, reaching ₹1,746 crore. Notably, profit from the sale and revaluation of investments stood at ₹266 crore in Q3FY25, marking a significant turnaround from a loss of ₹129 crore in Q3FY24. Additionally:

  • Commissions, exchange, and brokerage income grew by 16% to ₹462 crore.
  • Recoveries from written-off accounts also increased by 16% Y-o-Y, totalling ₹391 crore.

Market Reaction and Stock Movement

Despite these positive financials, the stock’s 14% decline in February suggests that investor sentiment may be influenced by broader market trends, potential concerns over margins, or other external economic factors. While the bank maintains its net profit guidance of ₹8,000 crore for FY25. 

Conclusion

Bank of India has showcased financial growth, supported by higher NII and non-interest income. However, the recent decline in its share price highlights the complexities of market sentiment. 

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.

Market Correction in 2025: Why Indian Stocks Are Struggling While Global Markets Surge

The Indian stock market, once soaring to new heights, is now experiencing a severe downturn in 2025. Selling pressure has intensified, pushing indices to multi-month lows and shaking investor confidence. The world’s 5th-largest market, which once seemed unstoppable, is now struggling to find a floor to arrest the sell-off.

Volatility Grips Dalal Street

Market sentiment has turned fragile, with heightened volatility amplifying price swings. Stocks across sectors are facing significant pressure, with mid-and small-cap stocks leading the decline. Every small development is triggering sharp reactions, adding to the uncertainty.

Indices Extend Losses for 5 Consecutive Months

What began as profit booking in October 2024 has now snowballed into a broader market correction. The benchmark indices have posted losses for 5 straight months, with:

The impact has been even more pronounced in the mid-and small-cap space on a YTD basis as of February 27, 2025:

Indian Markets Underperform Global Peers

While Indian equities are under pressure, global markets have displayed resilience despite economic uncertainties. Major indices across Asia, Europe, and the US are showing gains on a YTD basis as of February 27, 2025:

  • Shanghai Composite (China): Up 1.08%
  • Hang Seng (Hong Kong): Surged 18.2%
  • DAX (Germany), CAC 40 (France), FTSE 100 (UK): Gained up to 13.3%
  • Dow Jones (US): Rose 2.09%
  • S&P 500 (US): Up 1.27%

Market Capitalisation Drops Below $4 Trillion

With continued selling pressure, India’s market capitalisation has fallen below the $4 trillion mark—the first time in over 14 months. Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) have been aggressively offloading Indian equities, pulling out over ₹1 lakh crore so far in 2025.

Retail Investors Face Wealth Erosion

As overseas investors withdraw capital, retail investors are also facing heavy losses, especially in the small-cap segment, which continues to slide with no signs of recovery. The combination of FPI outflows, market volatility, and global underperformance has led to significant wealth erosion.

Conclusion

As the correction deepens, market participants remain cautious, closely watching global cues and domestic developments. Whether the tide will turn or if the downturn will persist remains a key question for investors in 2025.

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.

BP’s Strategic Reset: Castrol’s Future Under Review Amid Capital Reallocation

BP has introduced a fundamentally reset strategy, focusing on capital reallocation, cost efficiency, and performance improvement. The aim is to enhance free cash flow, improve shareholder returns, and build long-term resilience. As part of this approach, BP is also conducting a strategic review of its Castrol business to accelerate its value delivery and assess future opportunities.

Castrol share price made an intraday high of ₹221.90 on NSE. 

Revamping Capital Allocation and Cost Structure

BP’s new strategy involves a significant reallocation of capital, with a disciplined investment approach across its business segments. Key financial adjustments include:

  • Reducing capital expenditure: Total annual capex is set at $13–15 billion until 2027, with a reduction of $1–3 billion compared to 2024.
  • Increasing oil & gas investment: BP plans to raise its upstream oil and gas investment to ~$10 billion per year, targeting production growth of 2.3–2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (mmboed) by 2030.
  • Cost efficiency: Structural cost reductions have been increased to $4–5 billion by the end of 2027.
  • Divestments: BP is targeting $20 billion in divestments by 2027, with proceeds allocated to strengthening its balance sheet.

Strengthening Upstream and Downstream Operations

BP’s growth strategy is centred on:

  • Upstream Expansion: Strengthening its oil and gas portfolio to enhance cash flow and increase resilience.
  • Downstream Focus: High-grading its refining and marketing business, with an emphasis on integrated and advantaged assets.

A key component of this strategy is the strategic review of Castrol, BP’s leading global lubricants brand, to explore new growth opportunities and unlock value.

Transition Investment: A More Selective Approach

BP is maintaining a disciplined approach to energy transition investments. Instead of broad-based spending, the company is focusing on high-value segments such as:

  • Biogas, biofuels, and EV charging
  • Selective investments in hydrogen and carbon capture storage (CCS)
  • Capital-light partnerships in renewables

Annual investments in transition businesses are now set at $1.5–2 billion, which is over $5 billion lower than previous guidance.

Conclusion: Enhanced Financial Framework and Shareholder Focus

BP’s updated financial framework supports long-term financial strength and shareholder returns. Key highlights include:

  • Net debt reduction: Targeting a range of $14–18 billion by 2027.
  • Free cash flow growth: Aiming for >20% compound annual growth in adjusted free cash flow by 2027.
  • Higher returns: Targeting returns on average capital employed (ROACE) of >16% by 2027.
  • Shareholder distributions: BP intends to allocate 30–40% of operating cash flow to shareholder distributions through dividends and share buybacks.

The company has also set a minimum 4% annual increase in dividends per ordinary share, subject to board discretion.

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 Share Price Hits 52-Week High as RBI Eases Risk Weight Norms

Bajaj Finance’s share price climbed 2.6% to reach a fresh 52-week high of ₹8,739 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) as of 1:03 PM on February 27, 2025. The rally comes in response to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) decision to ease risk weight norms for bank financing to Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and microfinance loans.

RBI’s Policy Reversal: A Boost for NBFCs

The RBI has reversed its earlier decision from November 2023, which had imposed an additional 25% risk weight on top of the existing rating-based risk weight for bank loans to NBFCs. This reversal is expected to unlock additional funds, thereby improving liquidity in the sector.

However, the risk weight for unsecured retail loans remains unchanged. The risk weight for personal loans and credit card outstandings held by NBFCs continues to be 125%, up from the previous 100%, reinforcing the central bank’s cautious stance on unsecured lending.

A Positive Sentiment for the NBFC Sector

The relaxation of risk weights is anticipated to provide relief across the NBFC sector by improving credit availability. With increased lending capacity, NBFCs can continue their growth momentum and expand their loan books.

Strong Q3 Performance Underpins Bajaj Finance’s Growth

Bajaj Finance has showcased a strong financial performance, further reinforcing investor confidence:

  • Net Profit Growth: The company posted an 18% year-on-year (YoY) increase in consolidated net profit for Q3 FY25, reaching ₹4,308 crore.
  • Rising Net Interest Income (NII): NII surged 23% YoY to ₹9,382 crore, compared to ₹7,655 crore in Q3 FY24.
  • Robust Asset Expansion: Assets under management (AUM) soared by 28% YoY to ₹3.98 lakh crore as of 31 December 2024, compared to ₹3.11 lakh crore in the previous year.

Asset Quality and Provisions: A Closer Look

While the financial performance remained strong, the company faced a slight deterioration in asset quality:

  • Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA): Increased to 1.12% as of 31 December 2024, from 0.95% a year earlier.
  • Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA): Rose to 0.48% from 0.37% YoY.
  • Provisioning Coverage: The coverage ratio for stage 3 assets stood at 57%.

Additionally, provisions for loan losses surged to ₹2,043 crore in Q3 FY25, up from ₹1,248 crore in the corresponding period of the previous year. As a percentage of average assets under finance, loan losses and provisions stood at 2.16%.

Conclusion

The RBI’s decision to roll back additional risk weights on bank loans to NBFCs has significantly improved market sentiment, pushing Bajaj Finance to a new 52-week high. 

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.

Income Distribution Announced Across Mutual Fund Schemes

Several mutual funds have recently announced income distributions for investors opting for the IDCW (Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal) option. As per the reports, the distributions will be paid based on record dates set for February 27 and 28, 2025.

HDFC Mutual Fund: 

HDFC Mutual Fund has declared income distribution in regular and direct IDCW options across three of its equity funds. Investors holding units as of February 28, 2025, will receive the following payouts per unit:

The record date for this distribution is February 28, 2025.

Canara Robeco Mutual Fund: 

Canara Robeco Mutual Fund has announced income distribution under its ELSS Tax Saver Fund, which qualifies for tax benefits under Section 80C. The payouts are:

  • Regular IDCW option –  ₹1.13 per unit
  • Direct IDCW option –  ₹1.82 per unit

The record date for this distribution is February 28, 2025.

Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund:

Baroda BNP Paribas Mutual Fund has declared income distribution for its Multi Cap Fund, with a record date of February 27, 2025. The per-unit payouts are:

  • Regular IDCW option –  ₹0.39
  • Direct IDCW option –  ₹0.41

The record date for this distribution is February 27, 2025.

Eligibility

Investors eligible for these distributions must hold units on the record date specified by each fund. For HDFC and Canara Robeco, the record date is February 28, 2025, while for Baroda BNP Paribas, it is February 27, 2025.

Want to plan regular withdrawals? Our SWP Calculator helps you calculate how much you can withdraw while keeping your investments intact. Try it 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.

Why is the Gold Price Declining? Check Gold and Silver Prices in Your City on February 27

On February 27, 2025, gold prices fell in both global and domestic markets. In the international market, spot gold prices have declined below the key psychological level of $2,900. In the domestic market, gold prices have also witnessed a decrease.

In the international market, spot gold prices fell by 0.76% to $2,893.88 per ounce as of 12:36 PM on February 27, trading near a one-week low.

In India, gold prices declined by ₹490 per 10 grams across major cities.

  • In Mumbai, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹8,549 per gram, while 22-carat gold costs ₹7,837 per gram. The 24-carat gold price stands at ₹85,490 per 10 grams as of 12:36 PM.
  • In Delhi, 22-carat gold is priced at ₹78,238 per 10 grams, while 24-carat gold is trading at ₹85,350 per 10 grams.

Gold prices are under pressure due to a stronger US dollar and rising US bond yields.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities on February 27, 2025

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of February 27, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 85,740 78,595
Hyderabad 85,630 78,494
Delhi 85,350 78,238
Mumbai 85,490 78,366
Bangalore 85,560 78,430

Silver Prices in India on February 27, 2025

The international silver price has declined by 0.51% to $31.76 as of 12:36 PM. In India, silver prices have dropped by ₹580 per kg.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

 

City Silver Rate in ₹/KG 
Mumbai 94,510
Delhi 94,350
Kolkata 94,380
Chennai 94,790

Key Takeaways

  • Gold Prices: Both 22-carat and 24-carat gold prices have declined across major Indian cities, with international gold prices dropping below $2,900.
  • Silver Prices: Silver prices have decreased in both international and domestic 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.

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