India’s Gem and Jewellery Sector Strengthens Ties with Thailand Through Multiple MoUs

India’s gem and jewellery sector has taken a significant step towards strengthening its trade relationship with Thailand by signing multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs). These agreements aim to enhance cooperation, streamline gemstone standardisation, and foster innovation in jewellery design and production.

Thailand remains a key trading partner for India in the gem and jewellery industry. Indian exports account for 15% of Thailand’s total gem and jewellery imports, making it one of the top ten importers of Indian jewellery products. Despite this strong trade relationship, India’s gross exports in the sector stood at ₹2,02,640 crore (US$ 23,188 million) in the first 10 months of FY25, reflecting a 12.11% decline compared to the previous year.

Key MoUs Signed to Boost Industry Collaboration

Three key agreements were signed between Indian and Thai jewellery trade associations:

1. Standardising Gemstone Quality and Research

The Gems and Jewellery Research and Laboratories Centre (IIGJ-RLC) signed an MoU with the Gem & Jewellery Institute of Thailand (GIT), a public body under Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce. This partnership aims to promote gemstone standardisation, joint research initiatives, and knowledge exchange, ensuring greater transparency and trust in the industry.

Chairman of IIGJ Jaipur and Director of IIGJ-RLC, Mr. Nawal Agarwal, emphasised that the agreement would enhance gemstone certification processes, benefiting both traders and consumers.

2. Strengthening the Coloured Gemstone Trade

The Jewellers Association Jaipur entered into an MoU with the Chanthaburi Gem and Jewellery Traders Association, focusing on boosting the coloured gemstone trade between India and Thailand.

According to Mr. Alok Sonkhia, President of the Jewellers Association Jaipur, the agreement will facilitate better trade policies and strengthen business relations between coloured gemstone traders in both countries.

3. Advancing Silver Jewellery Design and Market Reach

A third MoU was finalised between the Sitapura Gems and Jewellery Industry Association (SGJIA) and the Thai Silver Exporters Association (TSEA). This agreement seeks to drive innovation, design excellence, and market expansion in silver jewellery.

Mr. Arvind Gupta, President of SGJIA, noted that this collaboration would help improve design standards, encourage new product development, and increase global competitiveness in silver jewellery exports.

Conclusion: A Step Forward for the Jewellery Industry

These MoUs mark a significant milestone in India-Thailand jewellery trade relations, ensuring better standardisation, stronger collaborations, and enhanced market access. By focusing on knowledge sharing, research, and design innovation, the agreements are expected to create new growth opportunities for both countries in the global jewellery market.

As the industry navigates evolving global trends, such partnerships will be instrumental in driving sustainable growth and strengthening India’s position in the international gem and jewellery trade.

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.

ASK Automotive Share Price Hits Upper Circuit; Here’s Why

ASK Automotive Limited, India’s largest manufacturer of brake shoes and advanced braking systems for two-wheelers, recently announced a significant collaboration with Japan-based Kyushu Yanagawa Seiki Co., Ltd. (KYSK). This partnership is aimed at manufacturing high-pressure die-cast alloy wheels for two-wheelers, leveraging KYSK’s expertise in aluminium die-casting technology.

The development was followed by a sharp rise in ASK Automotive’s share price, hitting the upper circuit on the stock exchanges in early deals on March 4, 2025. 

What Does This Partnership Mean?

As part of the agreement, KYSK will provide technical assistance and knowledge-sharing to help ASK Automotive manufacture premium-quality die-cast alloy wheels. These wheels will be supplied to a Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM), indicating a move towards global expansion and enhanced product capabilities.

Speaking about the deal, Kuldip Singh Rathee, Chairman and Managing Director of ASK Automotive said “With over 3 decades of experience in the Indian automotive industry, we have a deep understanding of the market and the needs of OEMs. Today, alloy wheels have become a critical component across all segments, especially in two-wheelers, ranging from premium-level to entry-segment.” 

He further added, “Our legacy and expertise in Aluminium Light Weighting Precision Solutions will support the development of high pressure die casted alloy wheels for 2-wheeler. Our partnership with KYSK will facilitate us with critical technical assistance and know-how, helping us meet the required standards and manufacture the best in class products for our Identified Customer.”

Why Is This Development Significant?

  1. Expansion into High-Growth Segments

ASK Automotive, primarily known for its braking systems, is now diversifying into alloy wheel manufacturing, a rapidly growing market in India and globally.

  1. Strengthened Global Partnerships

Collaborating with KYSK, which has extensive experience in producing motorcycle wheels for Honda Motor Co. Ltd., enhances ASK Automotive’s credibility and access to cutting-edge manufacturing techniques.

  1. Boost to Export Potential

The agreement includes supplying Japanese OEMs, which could open doors for future international business opportunities.

  1. Enhanced Manufacturing Capabilities

Leveraging KYSK’s technology, ASK Automotive aims to ensure high precision and superior performance, aligning with world-class safety and durability standards.

About ASK Automotive

ASK Automotive is a leading supplier of critical safety systems and precision components, with a ~50% market share in the Indian two-wheeler OEM segment. The company has expanded its operations into:

  • Advanced braking systems
  • Aluminium lightweighting solutions
  • Safety control cables

With a strong in-house R&D, engineering, and design centre, ASK Automotive continues to innovate and expand its product portfolio, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Conclusion

The partnership with KYSK marks a strategic step for ASK Automotive as it ventures into the high-value alloy wheel segment. The collaboration could potentially drive revenue growth, strengthen its position in the automotive components industry, and enhance investor confidence in the company’s long-term prospects.

While the stock has reacted positively to the news, market participants will be keenly watching how ASK Automotive executes its expansion strategy and the impact of this partnership on its financial performance.

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.

Reliance Industries Share Price Hits 52-Week Low; Faces $2.81 Billion Demand Following Arbitral Reversal

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has been entangled in a legal dispute with the Government of India (GoI) regarding claims of gas migration from ONGC’s blocks in the KG-D6 basin. The conflict dates back to 2018, when an eminent international arbitration panel ruled in favour of RIL and its partners, awarding them approximately $1.55 billion against the government’s claims. However, this ruling has been subject to multiple legal challenges over the years.

Legal Developments and High Court Ruling

On May 9, 2023, a single judge of the Hon’ble Delhi High Court dismissed the GoI’s appeal challenging the arbitral award, effectively upholding RIL’s position. However, the GoI subsequently appealed to the Division Bench of the Delhi High Court. In a significant legal turn, the Division Bench has now reversed the single judge’s decision, siding with the GoI.

Government’s Demand of $2.81 Billion

Following the Division Bench’s ruling, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has raised a demand of $2.81 billion against the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) contractors—RIL, BP Exploration (Alpha) Limited, and NIKO (NECO) Limited. The official letter of demand was received by RIL on 3 March 2025 at 11:30 a.m.

Reliance’s Response and Next Steps

RIL, in its response, has expressed its intent to challenge the Division Bench’s decision. The company maintains that both the ruling and the subsequent financial demand are legally unsustainable. RIL has sought legal advice and firmly believes that it does not bear any liability in this matter.

The company is now preparing to take further legal steps to contest the judgment and safeguard its position.

Implications for Stakeholders

This development could have wide-ranging implications for RIL’s business operations and investor sentiment. Legal battles of this magnitude can influence stock movements and create uncertainties in regulatory and corporate environments. However, RIL’s assertion that it does not expect any liability suggests that the company remains confident in its legal stance. But the share price of Reliance Industries has hit a fresh 52-week low on March 4, 2025. 

Conclusion

As this legal dispute unfolds, stakeholders will closely watch how RIL navigates the situation. The outcome of the company’s appeal against the Division Bench’s ruling will be critical in determining the next steps in this high-stakes dispute. Investors and industry observers will need to stay updated on any new legal and regulatory developments in this case.

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.

ICICI Prudential Life Introduces ‘ICICI Pru GIFT Select’: A Guaranteed Income Plan

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has introduced ‘ICICI Pru GIFT Select,’ a long-term savings product designed to provide customers with guaranteed immediate income, offering much-needed liquidity. The plan includes various customisation options, allowing individuals to tailor their financial strategy according to their unique needs.

Customisation Options for Financial Flexibility

Customers opting for ‘ICICI Pru GIFT Select’ can decide:

  • When they want the guaranteed income to commence
  • The duration for which the guaranteed income will continue
  • The amount they receive upon maturity

Additionally, the plan incorporates a life cover component, ensuring financial security for policyholders and their families.

Addressing Inflation with an Increasing Income Feature

One of the distinguishing features of this product is its increasing income option, where the income grows at a compounding rate of 5% per annum. This feature helps policyholders safeguard their purchasing power against inflation, making it a useful financial tool for long-term wealth preservation.

Amit Palta on the Product’s Unique Offering

Amit Palta, Chief Product and Distribution Officer, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance, highlighted that the plan enables customers to benefit from guaranteed income while customising it to align with their financial goals and cash flow requirements.

“In a dynamic macroeconomic environment, there could be spells of market volatility like the one seen over the last couple of months. In such situations, customers prefer products that offer guaranteed returns while ensuring wealth preservation,” he stated.

Market Volatility and Financial Stability

Market fluctuations can significantly impact financial planning. ‘ICICI Pru GIFT Select’ is structured to help customers insulate their financial savings from market uncertainties, ensuring a stable and predictable income stream.

Claim Settlement Performance

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has demonstrated strong claim settlement efficiency, with a 99.3% claim settlement ratio recorded in the first nine months of FY’25. Additionally, the average claim settlement time for non-investigated cases is just 1.2 days, reflecting the company’s commitment to quick and hassle-free claim processing.

Conclusion

ICICI Pru GIFT Select offers a combination of guaranteed income, flexibility, and financial security, catering to individuals looking for predictable returns. The plan’s increasing income feature makes it particularly relevant in an inflationary environment, ensuring that policyholders can maintain their financial well-being over time.

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.

Tata Mutual Fund Declares IDCW Payout for Select Schemes

Tata Mutual Fund has declared an Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) under a few of its schemes. The record date for this distribution is set as March 5, 2025. Investors holding units on this date will receive the payout, while those purchasing units after this date will not be eligible.

IDCW Amount Per Unit

The amount per unit (on a face value of ₹10 per unit) is as follows:

Scheme IDCW (₹/unit)
TATA Hybrid Equity Fund (Direct & Regular) 0.340
TATA Equity Savings Fund (Direct & Regular) 0.057

The payout applies to both the direct and regular plans of these schemes.

What IDCW Means for Investors?

IDCW is not the same as a dividend. It includes both profits earned by the fund and a portion of the capital. When the distribution is made, the Net Asset Value (NAV) of the scheme reduces by a similar amount. Investors receiving IDCW should keep in mind that while they get a payout, the fund’s value adjusts accordingly.

Tax Considerations

IDCW is subject to tax deduction at source (TDS) and is taxed at the investor’s applicable slab rate. Unlike capital gains, which are taxed only when units are sold, IDCW payouts are taxed immediately in the hands of the investor.

Conclusion

All in all, March 5, 2025, is set as the key date for investors holding these fund units. The actual payout date will depend on the fund house’s process. Investors should check their statements after this date for details on the credited amount.

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.

HDFC Mutual Fund Renames HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund

HDFC Mutual Fund has announced a name change for its HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund, which will now be called HDFC Value Fund. The change will take effect from March 15, 2025. Apart from the new name, there are no changes to the scheme’s structure, investment strategy, or terms.

Fund Details

The scheme follows a value investment strategy and is an open-ended equity fund. It aims to generate long-term capital appreciation by investing in undervalued stocks. The fund is benchmarked against the NIFTY 500 Index (Total Returns Index) and is managed by Anand Laddha and Dhruv Muchhal.

As of January 31, 2025, the fund had ₹6,950 crore in assets under management (AUM) and held a total of 81 stocks in its portfolio. The minimum investment amount is ₹100, with no upper limit.

Investment Allocation

The scheme invests across different asset classes within these limits:

  • 65-100% in equity and equity-related instruments
  • 0-35% in debt securities and money market instruments
  • 0-10% in units of REITs and InvITs
  • 0-10% in non-convertible preference shares

The fund aims to keep at least 60% of its equity portfolio in stocks that meet one or more of the following conditions:

  • Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio lower than the median of NIFTY 500 stocks
  • Price-to-Book (P/B) ratio lower than the median of NIFTY 500 stocks
  • P/E or P/B ratios lower than their five-year historical averages

Official Notification

HDFC Mutual Fund has communicated the name change through a notice-cum-addendum. This update is now part of the Scheme Information Document (SID), Key Information Memorandum (KIM), and Statement of Additional Information (SAI).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fund’s investment approach, portfolio structure, and other terms remain unchanged.

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.

Quant Arbitrage Fund Files Draft with SEBI

Quant Mutual Fund has filed a draft for its Quant Arbitrage Fund with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This will be an open-ended arbitrage scheme, focusing on opportunities in the cash and derivatives segments of the equity market.

NFO Details

The New Fund Offer (NFO) details are as follows:

  • Face Value per Unit: ₹10
  • Minimum Investment: ₹5,000 (multiples of ₹1 thereafter)
  • Exit Load: 0.25% if redeemed within one month, no exit load thereafter

The fund will be managed by Sanjeev Sharma, Sameer Kate, and Yug Tibrewal. They have experience in equity, derivatives, and risk mitigation strategies.

Fund Objective

The scheme aims to generate capital appreciation and income by primarily investing in arbitrage opportunities. A portion of the portfolio will be allocated to debt and money market instruments. However, there is no guarantee that the investment objective will be achieved.

Asset Allocation

  • 65-100%: Equity and equity-related instruments (including derivatives)
  • 0-35%: Debt and money market instruments
  • Up to 10%: Units of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)

As per the filing, the fund will identify arbitrage opportunities, execute trades simultaneously in the cash and derivatives markets, and, when necessary, shift to debt and money market instruments.

Benchmark and Liquidity

The scheme will be benchmarked against the Nifty 50 Arbitrage TRI. Investors can subscribe or redeem units at NAV-based prices on all business days. Under normal circumstances, redemption proceeds will be dispatched within three working days.

Conclusion

All in all, the Scheme Information Document (SID) includes details about taxation, risks, and expenses. Investors should review the document before making any investment decisions. Further updates will follow after SEBI’s approval and the finalization of the NFO launch dates.

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.

Tata BSE Quality Index Fund Files Draft with SEBI

Tata Mutual Fund has filed a draft for the Tata BSE Quality Index Fund with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The fund is an open-ended index fund designed to replicate or track the BSE Quality Total Return Index (TRI).

NFO Details

The New Fund Offer (NFO) details are as follows:

  • Fund Category: Other Schemes – Index Fund
  • NFO Period: Dates yet to be announced
  • Benchmark: BSE Quality Total Return Index (TRI)
  • Face Value: ₹10 per unit
  • Entry Load: Not applicable
  • Exit Load: 0.25% of NAV if redeemed within 15 days of allotment
  • Liquidity: Open for repurchase/sale at NAV-based prices on all business days

Investment Strategy

As per the filing, the fund’s objective is to provide returns before expenses that match the performance of the BSE Quality TRI, subject to tracking error. It will invest in the same stocks as the index in the same proportion. The scheme does not guarantee or assure any returns.

The fund will track the BSE Quality TRI, and its tracking error is expected to stay below 2%. The total expense ratio (TER) will not exceed 1% of the daily net assets.

  • Minimum Investment: ₹5,000 and in multiples of ₹1 thereafter
  • Additional Investment: ₹1,000 and in multiples of ₹1 thereafter
  • Minimum Redemption Amount: ₹500 or 50 units or balance, whichever is lower

Asset Allocation

  • 95%–100% in securities covered by the BSE Quality Total Return Index
  • 0%–5% in debt and money market instruments, including units of debt-oriented mutual funds

The fund may also invest in derivatives when index securities are unavailable or for rebalancing. 

Conclusion

Tata Mutual Fund, sponsored by Tata Sons Private Ltd and Tata Investment Corporation Ltd, will manage the scheme through Tata Asset Management Pvt. Ltd. The draft document also outlines taxation aspects, investor rights, and compliance with SEBI regulations.

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.

IRCTC and IRFC Earn ‘Navratna’ Status; IRFC Jumps Over 4%

The Government of India (GoI)  has granted Navratna status to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC). With this, IRCTC becomes the 25th and IRFC the 26th company to receive the status among Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). 

The upgrade was confirmed by the Department of Public Enterprises in a social media post.

Navratna Status 

Navratna status provides financial and operational autonomy to public sector enterprises. Companies with this designation can invest up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of their net worth, in a single project without requiring prior government approval. They also gain the ability to form joint ventures, establish subsidiaries, and enter major partnerships independently.

CPSE Classification

The government classifies CPSEs into three categories: Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna. Navratna companies have big financial powers but fall below Maharatna CPSEs in terms of investment limits and autonomy. 

Other companies with Navratna status include Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).

Financial Performance

For FY 2023-24, IRCTC, under the Ministry of Railways, reported:

  • Annual turnover: ₹4,270.18 crore
  • Profit after tax (PAT): ₹1,111.26 crore
  • Net worth: ₹3,229.97 crore

For the same period, IRFC, which finances railway projects, recorded:

  • Annual turnover: ₹26,644 crore
  • Profit after tax (PAT): ₹6,412 crore
  • Net worth: ₹49,178 crore

Market Reaction 

Following the announcement, as of March 4, 2025, at 11:16 AM, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC) traded at ₹675.50, down 0.16% for the day and 27.99% over the past year, while Indian Railway Finance Corporation Ltd (IRFC) was at ₹115.02 as of 11:17 AM, gaining 3.50% intraday but declining 20.98% over the past year.

IRCTC also declared a second interim dividend of ₹3 per share for FY 2024-25, with February 20, 2025, set as the record date for eligible shareholders.

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.

Mahila Samriddhi Yojana: Delhi’s ₹2,500 Monthly Aid Scheme for Women Registration Opens March 8

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Delhi is to launch the registration process for its ₹2,500 monthly financial aid scheme Mahila Samriddhi Yojana for women from economically weaker sections on March 8. The initiative, introduced under the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana, was a promise in BJP’s election manifesto.

Mahila Samriddhi Yojana Timeline and Beneficiary List

BJP MP Manoj Tiwari confirmed that the registration process would begin on International Women’s Day, and the first installment is expected to be credited within one and a half months. A list of beneficiaries will be prepared, and eligible women have been urged to register promptly to avail of the assistance.

This initiative mirrors schemes from other BJP-ruled states, such as Madhya Pradesh’s Ladli Behna Yojana and Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Yojana. It also counters AAP’s ‘Mahila Samman Yojana’, which had promised ₹2,100 per month for women, had the party retained power in Delhi.

Mahila Samriddhi Yojana Eligibility Critera

While the exact eligibility criteria for the Mahila Samriddhi Yojana would depend on official government guidelines, based on similar financial assistance schemes, the likely criteria could include:

  1. Residency – The beneficiary must be a resident of Delhi.
  2. Gender – The scheme is exclusively for women.
  3. Age Limit – There may be an age criterion, such as 18 years and above.
  4. Income Criteria – The scheme may be targeted at economically weaker sections, requiring applicants to have a household income below a certain threshold.
  5. Bank Account – Women must have a bank account linked to Aadhaar for direct benefit transfer (DBT).

Conclusion

While the BJP maintains its commitment to fulfilling its election promises, clarity on the registration process and fund disbursement is still awaited. CM Rekha Gupta is expected to officially launch the scheme on March 8, outlining further details on the rollout.

With registrations set to begin soon, eligible women in Delhi are advised to stay updated on the application process to benefit from the initiative.

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.