HDFC Mutual Fund Announces Income Distribution for Select Schemes

HDFC Mutual Fund has declared income distribution under the Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) option for a few of its schemes. The record date for eligibility is February 20, 2025. Investors holding units of these funds as of this date will receive the distribution.

Income Distribution 

The declared distribution per unit for each scheme is as follows:

Understanding IDCW

Under the IDCW option, mutual funds distribute a portion of their profits to investors rather than reinvesting them. This payout is not an additional return but comes from the fund’s net asset value (NAV), which reduces accordingly.

IDCW payouts are taxable in the hands of investors, depending on their income tax slab. Unlike capital appreciation, which benefits from indexation in some cases, IDCW earnings are taxed as regular income.

Record Date and Implications

The record date is the cutoff for determining investor eligibility. Anyone holding units in these funds at the end of February 20, 2025, will receive the distribution. If units are bought after this date, the investor will not be eligible for the payout.

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.

Income Distribution Announced for Two Equity Schemes by Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund

Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund has declared income distribution under the Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) option for two of its equity schemes. Investors holding units under the IDCW option of these schemes as of the record date, February 21, 2025, will be eligible for the announced payout.

Payout Details for Investors

The distribution per unit varies based on the scheme and its investment plan. Under Franklin India Flexi Cap Fund, unitholders in the Direct-IDCW plan will receive ₹5.0 per unit, while those in the regular IDCW option will get ₹4.0 per unit. Similarly, for Franklin India Smaller Companies Fund, the income distribution is set at ₹5.0 per unit for the Direct-IDCW plan and ₹4.0 per unit for the regular IDCW option.

Scheme Distribution (₹/unit)
Franklin India Flexi Cap Direct-IDCW 5.0
Franklin India Flexi Cap-IDCW 4.0
Franklin India Smaller Companies Direct-IDCW 5.0
Franklin India Smaller Companies-IDCW 4.0

Understanding IDCW in Mutual Funds

The Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) option allows investors to receive periodic payouts from mutual fund schemes. These payouts primarily come from the profits earned by the fund and may include portions of capital gains. 

However, investors should be mindful that IDCW is subject to dividend distribution tax (DDT) and may impact long-term wealth creation.

About the Two Franklin Templeton Schemes

Franklin India Flexi Cap Fund is an open-ended equity scheme that invests across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. Whereas, Franklin India Smaller Companies Fund, on the other hand, focuses on high-growth potential small-cap stocks, making it a riskier but rewarding option for investors with a higher risk appetite.

Takeaways for Investors

With February 21, 2025, as the record date, investors should check their holdings under the IDCW option to ensure eligibility for the payout. 

Plan your SBI SIP investments better! Use our easy-to-use SBI SIP Calculator and estimate future returns with just a few clicks. Your financial growth starts here.

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.

UTI India Mutual Fund Declares ₹0.90 per Unit Income Distribution Under Aggressive Hybrid Fund

UTI Mutual Fund has announced an income distribution of ₹0.90 per unit under the IDCW option (both regular and direct plans) of its UTI Aggressive Hybrid Fund. Investors should note that the record date for this payout is February 20, 2025.

Investment Approach

The UTI Aggressive Hybrid Fund follows a dual-investment strategy, aiming for long-term capital appreciation while maintaining a steady income stream. It primarily invests in equities across market capitalisations while also allocating a portion to debt and money market instruments. 

The Fund

For those considering investing, here are the essential details:

  • Minimum Investment: ₹1,000
  • Minimum Additional Investment: ₹1,000
  • Minimum SIP Investment: ₹500
  • Exit Load: 1% on redemption of units exceeding 10% of the investment within 365 days
  • Lock-in Period: None

Performance

Launched on January 1, 2013, the UTI Aggressive Hybrid Fund has delivered a return of 13.30% since inception. It tracks the CRISIL Hybrid 35+65 Aggressive Index and is categorised as a very high-risk investment. The fund’s total assets under management (AUM) stand at ₹5,956 crore as of January 31, 2025.

Despite its below-average risk grade, the fund has maintained an above-average return grade, making it an option for investors with a higher risk appetite. 

The expense ratio is 1.23% (as of January 31, 2025).

Other Details 

The UTI Aggressive Hybrid Fund is managed by V. Srivatsa, and KFin Technologies Ltd. serves as the Registrar & Transfer Agent. The fund’s open-ended structure provides investors with the flexibility to enter and exit without a lock-in period.

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.

Thomas Cook India signs MoU with Korea Tourism Organisation

Thomas Cook Partners With KTO

Thomas Cook (India) and its group company SOTC Travel have entered a strategic 24-month partnership with the Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) to enhance Korea’s visibility in the Indian market. This exclusive collaboration focuses on Special Projects aimed at fostering year-round awareness and increasing interest among Indian travellers. 

The partnership encompasses knowledge exchange, best practices, and the development of innovative travel products tailored to Indian preferences, strengthening Korea’s presence in the leisure, business, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sectors.

Korea’s Growing Appeal for Indian Travellers

Korea offers an enriching experience for Indian tourists, blending luxury, culture, wellness, and diverse cuisine. The global influence of the Hallyu wave, driven by K-pop, K-drama, and the K-beauty industry, has significantly boosted Korea’s appeal. Additionally, Hansik, Korea’s traditional cuisine known for its bold flavours and healthy ingredients, enhances its attractiveness as a culinary destination. 

While Seoul and Busan remain popular, regions like Jeju Island, Gangwon Province, and Jeollanam-do provide immersive wellness and relaxation experiences, featuring world-class spas and wellness centres. These elements position Korea as a premier destination for India’s affluent and wellness-conscious travellers, promoting long-term tourism growth.

Thomas Cook Share Performance

As of February 20, 2025, at 10:05 AM, the shares of Thomas Cook are trading at ₹127.10 per share, reflecting a surge of 6.38% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a loss of 23.33%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹264.00 per share and its low is ₹118.25 per share.

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.

63 Moons Share Price Hits Upper Circuit; Here’s Why

Shares of 63 Moons Technologies Limited hit the upper circuit following a significant announcement from the company’s board. The board approved its participation in the One-Time Settlement (OTS) Scheme proposed by the NSEL Investors Forum (NIF). This move is expected to address long-standing legal disputes and provide a structured approach to settlements.

Key Highlights of the Decision

In a regulatory filing dated February 18, 2025, 63 Moons Technologies disclosed that its board has agreed to support the Scheme of Arrangement between NSEL and Traders. This scheme will be filed before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Mumbai, which has been identified as the appropriate forum for addressing the settlement process.

The key aspects of this participation include:

  • Closure of legal proceedings against the company as per the scheme’s provisions.
  • Assignment of all claims and rights of NSEL traders to 63 Moons, enabling it to pursue recoveries from defaulters through decrees, liquidation of attached assets, or other means.

Key Aspects of the One-Time Settlement (OTS)

The approved ₹1,950 crore OTS is structured to address unpaid claims and bring financial closure to longstanding issues. The key elements include:

  1. Closure of Specific Legal Cases
    • The settlement will result in the withdrawal of legal proceedings against 63 Moons Technologies and other related entities.
  2. Recovery of Dues from Defaulters
    • The company will be assigned the rights and claims of the NSEL traders, allowing it to pursue recoveries from defaulters.
    • The process may involve legal decrees, liquidation of attached assets, or other judicial means to ensure the collection of pending dues.

Why Does This Matter?

The approval of this scheme could mark a turning point for 63 Moons, as it aims to resolve outstanding legal battles that have weighed on the company for years.

As of 3:09 PM on February 19, 2025, shares of 63 Moons Technologies are trading at ₹646.55.

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.

₹505 Crore of Unclaimed Wealth Accumulates, SEBI Proposes a Systematic Returns Framework

The Issue of Unclaimed Assets in Indian Markets

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has identified a significant concern in the financial markets—unclaimed investor funds and securities. As of January 31, investors have left approximately ₹323 crore in funds and ₹182 crore in securities unclaimed. To prevent misuse and facilitate timely returns, SEBI has proposed new guidelines involving brokers, stock exchanges, and investor protection mechanisms.

Defining ‘Unclaimed’ Assets

Unclaimed assets arise when funds or securities cannot be credited back to an investor’s bank or demat account due to various reasons, such as inactivity or incorrect details. SEBI has now standardised a process to classify funds or securities as unclaimed:

  • If a client’s broking account is inactive for 30 consecutive days, the broker must return any unutilised funds to the investor’s bank account per the monthly settlement cycle.
  • For active accounts, unutilised funds are to be credited monthly or quarterly based on the client’s preference.
  • Shares purchased by an investor must be transferred to their demat account by T+1 (the day after the transaction). If not, the broking account is placed under ‘enquiry status’, and the securities are categorised as unclaimed.
  • If an investor’s bank or demat account is inactive or incorrect, or if the investor has passed away, funds or securities can be transferred to their nominee or legal heir.

Treatment of Unclaimed Funds

To ensure investor protection, SEBI has mandated that brokers must:

  • Park unclaimed funds in low-risk investments such as liquid or overnight mutual funds and fixed deposits.
  • Transfer or pledge these funds to a clearing corporation to generate a minimum return.
  • Attempt to contact the investor at least six times before transferring the funds to the stock exchange.
  • If funds remain unclaimed for three years, they will be moved to the Investor Protection Fund (IPF). Investors can still reclaim them, but with interest only up to the fourth year.

Treatment of Unclaimed Securities

SEBI has outlined a structured process to handle unclaimed securities:

  • Brokers must transfer unclaimed securities to stock exchanges within seven days.
  • These securities will be pledged in favour of the stock exchange’s demat account.
  • Any corporate actions such as dividends and bonus shares will be credited to the investor’s ledger and transferred accordingly.

The Role of Stock Exchanges

Once brokers transfer unclaimed funds or securities, stock exchanges take on a supervisory role to locate the investors. Exchanges must:

  • Use databases such as Unique Client Code (UCC), depositories, and KYC registration agencies to track investors.
  • Contact investors through text messages and emails.
  • Deploy unclaimed funds in low-risk investment vehicles such as liquid mutual funds, treasury bills, or government securities.
  • Ensure brokers follow SEBI’s protocol in handling unclaimed assets.

Additionally, stock exchanges must attempt to contact nominees, employers, or introducers who may help locate the investor.

Process for Claiming Unclaimed Assets

Investors or their nominees can reclaim their funds or securities under the following conditions:

  • If a claim is made before assets are transferred to the exchange, the broker must verify and process the claim within 5 working days.
  • If a claim is made after the assets have been moved to the exchange, the broker must first verify the claim before forwarding it to the stock exchange, which then has 10 working days to process it.
  • If a broker defaults, unclaimed assets automatically go to the stock exchange, and investors must claim them directly from the exchange.

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.

SEBI Proposes Advanced Security Measures for Trading Accounts

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed new technology-based security measures to enhance the safety of trading and demat accounts. These initiatives aim to prevent unauthorised transactions and fortify authentication mechanisms, ensuring a more secure trading environment for investors.

Strengthening Authentication with SIM Binding

SEBI has suggested implementing a SIM binding mechanism similar to UPI applications. This would require a Unique Client Code (UCC) to be linked with a single SIM and mobile device, thereby ensuring that logins occur only from authenticated devices. 

This measure would significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access to trading accounts. Additionally, biometric authentication and login restrictions on multiple devices have also been proposed to enhance security further.

Centralised Call and Trade Facility

To mitigate risks associated with unauthorised transactions, SEBI has recommended that the call and trade facility be allowed only through dedicated and centralised phone numbers, email addresses, or mobile numbers registered with the stockbroker. 

This approach is aimed at preventing fraudulent activities such as SIM spoofing, unauthorised modifications, and erroneous share transfers.

Conclusion

With the increasing reliance on web and mobile-based trading platforms, SEBI’s proposed measures aim to tackle risks such as hacking, identity theft, and fraudulent activities. By leveraging technology-driven security protocols, the regulator seeks to provide investors with a safer trading experience.

Aiming to improve your trading experience? Enjoy seamless stock trading at your fingertips by downloading the Angel One trading app 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. 

Ashok Leyland Wins ₹298 Crore Order for TNSTC Buses

Ashok Leyland has secured an order worth ₹297.85 crore from the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) for 320 fully built, 12-meter low-floor buses. These buses will run on BS-VI diesel fuel and will be delivered between June and August 2025.

Bus Specifications

The order includes buses equipped with iGen 6 BS VI technology and H-Series engines with a power output of 184 kW (246 hp). They will also feature front and rear air suspension, which is meant to improve ride quality for city transport.

The contract was awarded through a normal tender process following standard business norms. Ashok Leyland has stated that there are no adverse provisions in the agreement.

Financial Performance

For Q3 FY25, Ashok Leyland reported a 36% rise in consolidated net profit to ₹761.92 crore, up from ₹560.21 crore in Q3 FY24. Revenue from operations increased 8.2% to ₹11,946.15 crore for the quarter ending December 31, 2024.

Following the announcement, Ashok Leyland’s stock price increased 0.93% to ₹224.35 as of 1:53 PM on February 19. Over the past month, the stock has gained 7.23%, and it has surged 30.28% over the past year. However, it has seen a 12.87% decline in the past six months.

Company Overview

Ashok Leyland manufactures and sells commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses. The company also produces industrial and marine engines, forgings, and castings. It supplies vehicles to multiple state transport corporations across India. The company has been expanding its presence in the commercial vehicle segment, particularly in public transport.

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.

SEBI Seeks Enhanced Powers to Regulate Unauthorised Financial Advice on Social Media

India’s market regulator, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), is seeking expanded authority from the government to tackle unregulated financial advice spreading across social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram. According to a news report, SEBI has requested the ability to remove misleading financial content and access call records for market violation investigations.

This is SEBI’s second such request since 2022, but government approval remains pending.

Addressing Unregulated Financial Advice

As part of its intensified crackdown on market violations, SEBI has been targeting unregulated financial advice proliferating on digital platforms. However, despite discussions with social media companies, regulators have been unable to gain access to critical communication records.

According to SEBI, platforms such as Meta-owned WhatsApp have denied access to group chat data, citing the limitations of existing information technology laws. “SEBI finds itself limited while investigating serious market violations due to the absence of power to access equivalent of call data records,” SEBI stated in its letter dated February 3.

SEBI’s Demands and Government Roadblocks

In its latest communication to the government, SEBI has requested:

  • The authority to remove any misleading financial messages, links, or groups that violate securities regulations.
  • The ability to access call or message data records communicated via digital and social media platforms.

Currently, such investigative powers are vested with other law enforcement agencies, including the Tax Department, Department of Revenue Intelligence, and Enforcement Directorate, but not with regulatory bodies like SEBI.

Social Media Platforms’ Response

Social media platforms have been reluctant to comply with SEBI’s demands. Telegram, in a revised statement emailed to Reuters on Friday, stated: “Telegram is fully cooperating with the concerned authorities to process their requests around content moderation or blocking groups or channels, after performing the necessary legal checks, as per the guidelines of the IT Act 2000.”

However, it clarified that it cannot provide access to call data due to its platform’s technical structure. This revision came after a previous statement issued on Thursday, which stated, “Telegram has not denied access to SEBI,” without further elaboration.

Implications for Market Regulation

SEBI’s push for broader powers highlights the regulator’s growing concerns over unauthorised financial advice that can mislead investors and impact market stability. If granted, these powers would enhance SEBI’s ability to monitor and take action against entities operating outside regulatory oversight. 

However, the ongoing tussle between regulatory authorities and social media platforms raises questions about data privacy, jurisdiction, and enforcement challenges.

With government approval still pending, it remains to be seen how SEBI’s request will shape the regulatory landscape for financial communications in India.

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.

RBIDATA: The Reserve Bank of India’s New Mobile App for Macroeconomic and Financial Statistics

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced RBIDATA, a mobile application aimed at enhancing public access to macroeconomic and financial data. The app is designed to offer a user-friendly interface with interactive visual elements, making complex economic data more accessible and comprehensible for a wider audience.

A Vast Repository of Economic Data

RBIDATA provides access to over 11,000 economic data series, covering various aspects of India’s economy. The information is sourced from reliable databases, ensuring authenticity and relevance for users seeking financial insights.

The app presents data in a structured manner, allowing users to explore various economic indicators, including:

  • Inflation and price indices
  • Banking and monetary statistics
  • National income and GDP trends
  • External trade and balance of payments
  • Government finance and fiscal policy data

Interactive Data Visualisation and Customisation

One of the key features of RBIDATA is its interactive graphs and charts, which help users analyse time-series data effectively. Users can:

  • View economic trends over different periods.
  • Download datasets for in-depth analysis.
  • Customise data views with filters and sorting options.

The app also provides contextual details such as data sources, measurement units, and frequency of updates, ensuring clarity in data interpretation.

Enhanced User Accessibility with Key Features

RBIDATA incorporates several features to improve the user experience:

1. Popular Reports Section

This feature highlights frequently viewed reports, making it easier to access widely used economic statistics without extensive searches.

2. Advanced Search Functionality

Users can quickly locate specific datasets using a search function that eliminates the need to navigate through multiple sections.

3. Banking Outlet Locator

The app includes a Banking Outlet feature, enabling users to find banking facilities within a 20-kilometre radius of their location. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses seeking nearby banking services.

Regional Economic Insights with SAARC Data

Beyond India-specific statistics, RBIDATA offers access to economic data from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries. The inclusion of the ‘SAARC Finance’ link provides a broader perspective on regional economic trends, fostering cross-border financial awareness.

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.