JBM Auto Arm Bags ₹5,500 Cr Order Under PM eBus Sewa Phase II

JBM Auto Limited, established in 1983, is the flagship enterprise of the esteemed $3.0 billion JBM Group. The company excels in manufacturing high-precision sheet metal components, tools, dies, moulds, and state-of-the-art buses, including cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs). 

Secured ₹5,500-Crore Contract

A significant milestone has been achieved by its subsidiary, JBM Ecolife Mobility, which has secured a monumental ₹5,500-crore contract under the PM eBus Sewa Scheme-II.

In a regulatory filing, the company disclosed that JBM Ecolife Mobility had triumphed in a competitive tender to function as a bus operator for the procurement, supply, operation, and maintenance of 1,021 electric buses. The ambitious project further encompasses the development of essential electric and civil infrastructure under the Gross Cost Contracting (GCC) model.

This landmark contract further fortifies JBM Auto’s stature in India’s burgeoning electric mobility landscape, aligning seamlessly with the government’s ambitious agenda for sustainable public transport.

JBM Auto Q3 FY25 Results

JBM Auto Limited has unveiled its consolidated financial results for Q3 FY25, reporting a net profit of ₹52 crore—an 8% increase from ₹49 crore in the corresponding period last year. Total sales, inclusive of other operating income, advanced by 4% to ₹1,396 crore, compared to ₹1,346 crore in the prior year’s equivalent quarter. Additionally, the Board of Directors has sanctioned a sub-division of existing equity shares from a face value of ₹2 each to ₹1 each—a strategic move that has garnered shareholder approval.

Share Price Performance 

At 1:26 PM On February 20, 2025, JBM Auto Ltd shares trading at ₹619.40 per share a 4.35% down on the NSE.

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.

Gold Prices Hit Fresh All-Time High; Check Gold and Silver Prices in Your City on Feb 20

On February 20, 2025, gold prices hit a fresh all-time high. In the international market, the spot gold price has increased by nearly 1% to $2,947.93 per ounce as of 12:33 PM.

In India, gold prices increased on February 20, 2025, by nearly ₹500 per 10 grams in major cities.

In Mumbai, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹8,644 per gram. Similarly, 22-carat gold now costs ₹7,924 per gram. The 24-carat gold price is ₹86,440 per 10 grams as of 12:33 PM on 19 February 2025.

In Delhi, the price of 22-carat gold is currently ₹79,099 per 10 grams, while 24-carat gold is trading at ₹86,290 per 10 grams.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities on February 20, 2025

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of February 20, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 86,690 79, 466
Hyderabad 86,580 79,365
Delhi 86,290 79,099
Mumbai 86,440 79,237
Bangalore 86,510 79,301

 

Silver Prices in India on February 20, 2025

The international silver price has increased by over 1% to $32.91 as of 12:33 PM on February 20, 2025. In India, silver prices have increased by ₹610 per kg.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities

City Silver Rate in ₹/KG 
Mumbai 97,300
Delhi 97,130
Kolkata 97,170
Chennai 97,580

Key Takeaways

  • Gold Prices: Both 22-carat and 24-carat gold prices have increased in major Indian cities. The international spot gold price is trading at a fresh all-time high, rising nearly 1%.
  • Silver Prices: Silver prices have increased in both the 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.

Insurance Premium Payments Made Easier with UPI-OTM & Bima-ASBA from March 1, 2025

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has introduced a significant change in the way policyholders can pay their insurance premiums. Under the new facility called Bima Applications Supported by Blocked Amount (Bima-ASBA), customers can now ‘block’ the required premium amount in their bank accounts. This amount is deducted only when the policy is issued or the premium becomes due.

This mechanism mirrors the Application Supported by Blocked Amount (ASBA) process used for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), where funds remain in the account but are debited only after share allocation.

How Bima-ASBA Works

Under the Bima-ASBA facility, policyholders can ensure that their premium amount remains available in their bank account but is not deducted immediately. The key features include:

  • Blocking of funds: The required premium amount is earmarked in the customer’s bank account.
  • Automatic deduction: The amount is debited only after the insurance company accepts the policy proposal and issues the policy.
  • Enhanced transparency: Customers are informed about the policy approval before any payment deduction takes place.

This feature ensures that policyholders maintain better control over their funds while ensuring timely premium payments.

UPI-OTM for Seamless Payments

To further simplify premium payments, IRDAI has also enabled insurers to use the Unified Payments Interface – One Time Mandate (UPI-OTM). This facility allows customers to authorise fund blocking for specific transactions without immediate debit. Some key benefits include:

  • Convenient payment processing – Funds remain in the account until needed.
  • Eliminates the need for manual transactions – The process becomes seamless and automated.
  • Greater financial flexibility – Customers can manage their cash flow more efficiently without worrying about immediate debits.

Mandatory Implementation by March 1

IRDAI has directed all life and health insurers to implement Bima-ASBA by March 1, 2025. Additionally, insurers must:

  • Partner with multiple banks to ensure smooth execution.
  • Provide an option in the proposal form where customers can authorise the blocking of funds.
  • Include a standard declaration in the proposal form, as prescribed by Life and General Insurance Councils, within a week of the circular’s issuance.

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.

TCS Collaborates with Salesforce to Enhance AI-Driven Solutions for Manufacturing and Semiconductor Industries

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced a new collaboration with Salesforce to deliver AI-driven solutions tailored for the manufacturing and semiconductor industries. The partnership aims to unlock data-driven insights, streamline operations, and elevate customer engagement.

The TCS share price was down by 0.16% as of 12:08 PM on February 20, 2025.

TCS has introduced three key initiatives as part of this collaboration:

  • Semiconductor Sales Accelerator – Enhancing sales efficiency with AI-driven insights.
  • Seller for the Future – Providing predictive analytics and real-time customer insights.
  • Digital Field Service – Optimising field operations with AI and IoT integration.

Addressing Industry Challenges with AI

One of the major challenges manufacturers and semiconductor firms face is managing and extracting value from vast amounts of unstructured data. By leveraging TCS’ industry expertise and Salesforce’s AI-powered CRM solutions, this collaboration seeks to transform how businesses interact with data to improve sales, service, and operational efficiency.

Indira Gillingham, Vice President of Alliances at Salesforce, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that integrating Salesforce Data Cloud with TCS’ industry-specific solutions will empower businesses with AI-driven insights.

AI-Powered Solutions for the Semiconductor Industry

TCS’ Semiconductor Sales Accelerator is designed to simplify complex data navigation for sales teams, providing faster access to critical insights. This solution integrates TCS’ expertise in semiconductor design, manufacturing, and advanced packaging with Salesforce’s AI and cloud capabilities.

By leveraging this platform, organisations can reduce their sales cycle, improve customer interactions, and enhance decision-making through AI-powered recommendations.

Empowering Sales Teams with Real-Time Insights

TCS’ Seller for the Future initiative equips sales teams with a comprehensive 360-degree view of customer data. This AI-driven solution provides real-time insights, predictive analytics, and personalised recommendations, enabling sales teams to:

  • Identify cross-selling and upselling opportunities.
  • Reduce deal cycle times.
  • Improve sales productivity.

By automating routine tasks, this initiative allows sales professionals to focus on strategic customer engagement, ultimately enhancing sales effectiveness.

Transforming Field Operations with AI and IoT

The Digital Field Service initiative integrates AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning to enhance field service operations. This solution equips technicians with:

  • Real-time data and predictive maintenance insights.
  • AI-driven scheduling optimisation.
  • Remote diagnostic capabilities.

These enhancements aim to reduce downtime, minimise maintenance costs, and improve 1st time fix rates, leading to better overall customer satisfaction.

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.

FMCG Sector Bleeds: Over ₹2.5 Lakh Crore Wiped Out Amid Record Losing Streak

The Indian FMCG sector is witnessing one of its longest losing streaks, with the Nifty FMCG index declining for the 14th consecutive session on February 20, 2025. This persistent downturn has resulted in a massive ₹2.7 lakh crore erosion in investor wealth, highlighting the sector’s struggles post the initial optimism following the Union Budget announcements.

Despite a brief rally after personal income tax changes, concerns over weak consumer demand and margin pressures have once again taken centre stage, dragging down FMCG stocks.

Index Slumps by 11% in 14 Days

Since February 3, the Nifty FMCG index has plummeted 11%, reflecting the severity of the downturn. Several frontline FMCG companies have been hit hard, witnessing significant market capitalisation erosion.

  • ITC Ltd. suffered the steepest decline, losing ₹77,600 crore in market value over the past 14 sessions.
  • Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) saw its market capitalisation shrink by ₹64,500 crore, bringing its valuation down to ₹5.2 lakh crore.
  • Nestlé India and Varun Beverages lost ₹12,400 crore and ₹30,000 crore, respectively.

Steep Declines Across FMCG Stocks

Among the Nifty FMCG constituents, several stocks have been battered by this relentless sell-off:

The decline is not just limited to heavyweight stocks, as the broader FMCG index remains under pressure.

Smaller Players Outperform FMCG Giants

Interestingly, as per a news report, while large FMCG companies are struggling, smaller players have fared better in terms of volume growth.

  • Smaller FMCG firms saw 8-10% volume growth in the quarter ending December 2024.
  • In contrast, larger FMCG companies reported a much weaker sales volume growth of 0-5% for the same period.

This divergence suggests that consumer preferences may be shifting towards regional and emerging brands, possibly due to pricing and value considerations.

Nifty FMCG Index Down 8.5% YTD

As of February 20, 2025, the Nifty FMCG index has declined over 8.5% on a year-to-date (YTD) basis. The prolonged weakness in the sector raises questions about the sustainability of the recent post-budget rally and highlights the headwinds that FMCG companies continue to face.

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.

Vedanta Share Price Recovers from Low; Demerger Approved by Shareholders and Creditors

Vedanta Ltd has secured strong approval for its demerger proposal, with 99.99% of shareholders, 99.59% of secured creditors, and 99.95% of unsecured creditors voting in favour of the split. The company, in its stock exchange filing, confirmed the approval and outlined the next steps in the demerger process.

Vedanta’s share price recovers from the day’s low to trade near the day’s high. As of 10:58 AM on February 20, 2025, the stock is trading 0.68% higher.

Key Details of the Vedanta Demerger Scheme

Under the demerger plan, each Vedanta shareholder will receive 1 additional share in each of the 4 newly created entities upon the completion of the process. The restructuring aims to enhance focus, operational efficiency, and investor interest in each of the individual businesses.

The 5 Newly Formed Companies

Following the demerger, Vedanta Ltd will be divided into 5 independent, sector-specific companies:

  1. Vedanta Aluminium – One of the world’s largest aluminium producers.
  2. Vedanta Oil & Gas – India’s largest private-sector crude oil producer.
  3. Vedanta Power – A key player in India’s power generation sector.
  4. Vedanta Iron & Steel – Managing a scalable ferrous portfolio.
  5. Vedanta Limited – Retaining its interests in Hindustan Zinc, the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and third-largest silver producer.

Additionally, Vedanta Ltd will serve as an incubator for emerging businesses, including technology ventures.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Demerger

Vedanta’s leadership has stated that the demerger will help streamline operations and improve the efficient utilisation of assets. By separating business verticals, each entity will be better positioned to:

  • Focus on core competencies.
  • Optimise operational efficiencies.
  • Attract targeted investments and strategic partnerships.
  • Secure independent funding through debt or equity markets.

Market Implications and Investor Perspective

The restructuring is expected to unlock value for shareholders by allowing them to invest selectively in businesses that align with their financial strategies and risk appetites. Different entities will have the flexibility to pursue sector-specific growth opportunities without being constrained by the broader conglomerate structure.

The move is also anticipated to enhance capital market access, making it easier for each company to secure funding tailored to its industry needs.

Regulatory Approvals and Next Steps

While the demerger has received shareholder and creditor approval, it remains subject to regulatory clearances, including those from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and other statutory authorities. The company will continue to navigate the required approvals before finalising the separation process.

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.

Gulshan Polyols Secures ₹124 Crore Ethanol Supply Order; Share Price Jumps 8%

Gulshan Polyols Limited (GPL) has been awarded a significant allocation for ethanol supply under the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme (EBPP) for the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2024-25. The company participated in a tender process floated by major Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and secured an order to supply 21,220 kilolitres of ethanol, valued at ₹1,24,13,70,000.

This development comes as part of the Indian government’s initiative to boost ethanol blending in petrol, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources. The ethanol allocation was awarded by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), and Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL). The supply execution will take place throughout ESY 2024-25.

Broader Allocation Details

Beyond this specific allocation cycle (C3), Gulshan Polyols has secured ethanol supply orders across multiple cycles for ESY 2024-25, amounting to a total allocation of 1,82,242 kilolitres. This cumulative allocation reinforces the company’s strong presence in the ethanol supply sector.

The broader allocation includes a substantial order in Cycle 1, where the company secured 1,42,222 kilolitres of ethanol with an estimated value of ₹9,93,94,31,620. In Cycle 2, GPL was awarded 18,800 kilolitres, valued at ₹1,35,09,68,000, and in Cycle 3, the company received 21,220 kilolitres worth ₹1,24,13,70,000. In total, the company has secured ethanol supply contracts worth ₹12,53,17,69,620 for ESY 2024-25.

This large-scale allocation underscores GPL’s strong foothold in the ethanol market, aligning with India’s target of achieving 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025.

Understanding the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme (EBPP)

The EBPP is a government initiative aimed at reducing dependency on fossil fuels by blending ethanol with petrol. This transition not only lowers carbon emissions but also enhances energy security and supports the agrarian economy by utilising surplus sugarcane and other bio-based sources. Ethanol blending has gained significant momentum, with the government providing incentives to ethanol producers and oil marketing companies to achieve higher blending targets.

Impact on Gulshan Polyols and Market Reaction

The ethanol supply allocation positions GPL as a key player in the government’s clean energy push. The company’s substantial order book for ESY 2024-25 reflects its ability to capitalise on the rising ethanol demand. Market sentiment around this development has been positive, leading to an 8% surge in the company’s share price following the announcement.

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.

Avantel Secures ₹43.25 Crore Order from NewSpace India for Xponder Devices

Avantel Limited, a technology-driven company, has announced that it has secured a significant purchase order worth ₹43.25 crore (including taxes) from NewSpace India Limited. The company disclosed this development in compliance with Regulation 30 of the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015.

The share price of Avantel on February 20, 2025, opened at ₹114.89, higher by 7.40%. 

Details of the Order

The purchase order involves the supply, installation, and commissioning of Xponder devices, signifying Avantel’s continued role in advanced communication and satellite-related solutions. The contract has been awarded by NewSpace India Limited, a key entity in India’s space sector, and falls under the manufacturing category. This is a domestic contract, and the execution timeline has been set for August 2025. The deal underscores Avantel’s growing presence in high-tech manufacturing, further strengthening its footprint in the industry.

Strategic Importance of the Deal

This contract strengthens Avantel’s position in the domestic technology sector, highlighting its role in providing advanced communication and satellite solutions. The collaboration with NewSpace India Limited—a key player in India’s space sector—further underscores Avantel’s capabilities in high-tech manufacturing.

Q3FY25 Financial Performance 

The company reported a 23.04% rise in consolidated net profit, reaching ₹20.08 crore in Q3FY25, up from ₹16.32 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

Revenue from operations for the quarter stood at ₹70.68 crore, reflecting a 19.14% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase compared to ₹59.33 crore in December 2023.

No Related Party Transactions

Avantel has clarified that there is no involvement of promoters, promoter groups, or related parties in this transaction, ensuring transparency in its dealings

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.

HFCL Secures Agreement with BSNL for BharatNet Phase III Implementation in Punjab

HFCL Limited has officially signed an agreement with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to implement BharatNet Phase III in the Punjab Telecom Circle. This development follows HFCL’s earlier receipt of an Advance Work Order (AWO) from BSNL, valued at approximately ₹2,501.30 crore.

The share price of HFCL on February 20, 2025, opened at ₹88.53, down by 0.30%.

Strengthening Digital Connectivity in Punjab

As part of this agreement, HFCL will serve as the Project Implementation Agency (PIA) for BharatNet Phase III, an initiative aimed at expanding broadband connectivity to rural and underserved regions of Punjab. BharatNet is a flagship government programme designed to enhance digital access across India, facilitating the last-mile fibre-optic connectivity necessary to bridge the digital divide.

HFCL Becomes the First to Sign Under BharatNet Phase III

HFCL’s agreement with BSNL marks a significant milestone, as the company becomes the first to formalise such a contract under BharatNet Phase III. This underscores its role as a key player in India’s telecommunications infrastructure, furthering its commitment to strengthening digital networks nationwide.

Next Steps: Project Implementation to Begin

With the agreement in place, HFCL is set to commence project implementation immediately. The initiative will involve the deployment of high-speed fibre-optic networks, supporting the Indian government’s vision of widespread digital inclusion.

Management Ambition to Reach ₹10,000 Crore Revenue

Last week, HFCL’s Managing Director, Mahendra Nahata, stated that the company is focusing on expanding overseas sales and increasing defence supply uptake as part of its ambition to become a ₹10,000-crore revenue enterprise.

“We are increasing our presence by appointing our own employees, distributors, and dealers in key global markets. Our goal is to achieve a substantial rise in export revenue from our optic fibre segment, with a significant portion of revenue coming from international markets in the coming years. Additionally, we aim for a considerable share of our telecom segment revenue to be export-driven,” Nahata had said.

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.

Indiabulls Enterprises Reports Over ₹1,000 Crore Sales in Indiabulls Estate & Club-I

Indiabulls Enterprises has announced the sale of 195 units in its premium residential project, Indiabulls Estate & Club-I, surpassing ₹1,000 crore in sales within just 30 days of launch. The project, unveiled on January 14, 2025, has garnered significant interest from homebuyers, reflecting a growing demand for high-end housing in Gurugram.

Prime Location and Connectivity

Spread across 24 acres, Indiabulls Estate & Club-I is strategically located on the Dwarka Expressway, Gurugram, offering seamless connectivity to key business districts in Gurugram and Delhi-NCR. This advantageous location enhances its appeal among professionals and investors looking for premium living spaces with easy access to commercial hubs.

A Blend of Green Living and Modern Amenities

The project is designed with a focus on sustainable and luxury living, incorporating green spaces and state-of-the-art amenities. With an emphasis on eco-friendly infrastructure, high-end recreational facilities, and a premium lifestyle, Indiabulls Estate & Club-I positions itself as a notable addition to Gurugram’s evolving luxury housing landscape.

Share Price Performance

In the last week, the share price of Indiabulls Enterprises has declined by 10.92%, while over the past month, it has fallen by 15.22%.

About Indiabulls Enterprises 

Indiabulls Enterprises is engaged in construction equipment rental and leasing services, offering a comprehensive range of machinery and turnkey solutions to Engineering Procurement & Construction (EPC) companies. The company provides heavy-duty tower cranes, passenger hoists, piling rigs, excavators, dozers, motor graders, wheel loaders, mobile boom placers, and steel stir-up machines, among other advanced construction and infrastructure equipment.

The equipment fleet consists of global brands known for superior productivity and efficiency, catering to the construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, and mineral handling industries. With offices in Mumbai, Gurgaon, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, along with rental yards at key locations across India, the company ensures seamless service delivery and enhanced operational efficiency.

Operating in a highly fragmented and diverse equipment rental market, Dhani Services has built competitive advantages through its extensive resources and professional execution. The company’s sustainable business model and broad fleet range enable it to serve multiple industries with different trade cycles, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable partner in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

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.