Uno Minda Acquires Full Stake in EV Joint Venture From FRIWO

Uno Minda has announced the acquisition of the remaining 49.9% stake in its joint venture firm, UnoMinda EV Systems (UMEV), from partner FRIWO Geratebau GmbH for ₹195 crore. This move will increase Uno Minda’s ownership from 50.1% to 100%, strengthening its position in the Indian electric vehicle (EV) market.

Complete Ownership and Technology Integration

With this acquisition, Uno Minda, through its subsidiaries, will also obtain intellectual property rights and research & development (R&D) assets related to e-drive technologies from FRIWO’s facilities in Germany and Vietnam. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of Q1FY26. This strategic move will enable Uno Minda to enhance its capabilities in EV systems and further develop advanced technologies for the Indian market.

Strengthening Position in the EV Sector

Uno Minda sees significant growth opportunities in India’s electric vehicle sector, particularly in the two-wheeler segment. Chairman and Managing Director Nirmal K. Minda expressed confidence that the acquisition and integration of e-drive technologies will bolster UMEV’s leadership in the industry. Established in December 2021, the joint venture has been instrumental in advancing EV technology, and the latest development will allow Uno Minda to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

UNO Minda Share Performance

As of February 17, 2025, at 9:15 AM, the shares of UNO Minda are trading at ₹899.00 per share, reflecting a decline of 0.80% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 16.96% and over the last year it has surged over 39%.

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 Consumer Products Acquires Velvette To Strengthen Personal Care Segment

Reliance Consumer Products Ltd, the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) division of Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd, has acquired Tamil Nadu-based personal care brand Velvette for an undisclosed sum. This acquisition aligns with Reliance’s strategy of reviving Indian heritage brands and expanding its presence in the personal care industry.

Revival of Velvette Brand

Reliance Consumer Products plans to relaunch the Velvette brand, starting with a range of shampoos in Tamil Nadu before expanding to other markets. The company also intends to introduce soaps and body washes under the Velvette brand in the near future. COO Ketan Mody said “We are thrilled to welcome Velvette into the Reliance family. The brand’s legacy of making personal care accessible to millions is remarkable. We look forward to enhancing its offerings and taking Velvette to new heights, making it an even more integral part of everyday life.”

Strengthening FMCG Portfolio

The Velvette brand, established in the 1980s by the late C.K. Rajkumar, gained recognition for pioneering shampoo sachets, making personal care products accessible to a wider audience. Following the acquisition agreement, Rajkumar’s son, Arjun Rajkumar, said “We are thrilled to join forces with Reliance Consumer Products and embark on this new chapter for Velvette. RCPL’s resources will enable us to expand the brand’s reach and bring Velvette’s authentic products to a modern, wider audience’.

Reliance Industries Share Price Performance

As of February 17, 2025, at 12:31 PM, the shares of Reliance Industries are trading at ₹1,218.75 per share. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 6.70% and over the last year it has declined by 17.56%.

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.

BHEL Secures ₹6,700 Crore Contract for 800 MW Thermal Power Project in Telangana

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has received a contract worth ₹6,700 crore from Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) for establishing an 800 MW thermal power unit in Telangana. This development strengthens BHEL’s position in India’s power sector and aligns with the state’s growing energy demands.

BHEL’s Role in Power Infrastructure

BHEL, a leading engineering and manufacturing company, has been a key player in India’s energy sector. The company has an extensive portfolio of thermal, hydro, and renewable power projects. The newly awarded contract from SCCL adds to its list of major projects, reinforcing its expertise in setting up large-scale thermal power plants.

The project involves designing, manufacturing, and commissioning an advanced 800 MW thermal power unit. BHEL will leverage its technology and manufacturing capabilities to ensure efficient execution. The order highlights its continued contribution to India’s energy security and industrial growth.

Significance of the Singareni Collieries Project

Singareni Collieries Company Limited, a state-owned coal mining organisation, plays a significant role in coal production for power generation. This 800 MW project in Telangana will enhance the region’s electricity supply, supporting industries and households. The thermal power plant is expected to boost the state’s energy capacity and contribute to meeting future power demands.

This project aligns with Telangana’s initiatives to expand its power generation capacity. The investment by SCCL in thermal power infrastructure reflects the state’s commitment to energy reliability and industrial progress.

BHEL Share Price Performance

As of February 17, 2025, at 9:20 AM, the shares of BHEL are trading at ₹194.55 per share, reflecting a surge of 0.6% from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 9.12% and over the last year it has declined by 13.80%.

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.

Welspun Corp Secures ~₹3,000 Crore Pipeline Order from the USA

Welspun Corp has received new orders worth ~₹3,000 crore from the USA for the supply of Helical Submerged Arc Welded (HSAW) pipes and High-Frequency Induction Welded (HFIW) pipes. These pipes are meant for natural gas pipeline projects, and the execution is planned for FY26 and FY27.

Order Book

With the addition of these new contracts, Welspun Corp’s total consolidated order book now stands at around ₹18,000 crore. The company has a presence in the USA’s oil and gas transmission sector and continues to see demand from the region.

Execution Timeline

The newly secured orders will be executed primarily during FY26 and FY27. These orders help grow the company’s role in the pipeline sector, particularly in the USA’s natural gas infrastructure projects.

Welspun Corp, as per the filing, remains focused on fulfilling its current order commitments while continuing to look for new business opportunities.

Q3 FY25 Financial Results

Welspun Corp reported a 127% year-on-year (YoY) rise in net profit, reaching ₹674.7 crore for Q3 FY25, compared to ₹297.9 crore in the same period last year. However, revenue from operations declined by 23.9% YoY, falling to ₹3,613.5 crore from ₹4,749.7 crore in Q3 FY24.

Despite the revenue drop, EBITDA stood at ₹434.4 crore, down 6.1% YoY, but the EBITDA margin improved to 12% from 9.8%. 

Market Impact

Following the announcement, as of February 17, 2025 (12:07 PM), Welspun Corp Ltd shares are trading at ₹729.25, down ₹8.25 (1.12%) for the day. Over the past month, the stock has declined 6.46%, but it remains up 32.77% over the past year. The company’s market capitalization stands at ₹18,933 crore as of today.

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.

NFO Alert: Kotak Mutual Fund Launches Nifty Commodities Index Fund

Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund is launching the Kotak Nifty Commodities Index Fund, an open-ended index fund that tracks the Nifty Commodities Index. The fund will be available for subscription from February 17, 2025, to March 3, 2025.

Investment Objective

The fund aims to provide returns that align with the Nifty Commodities Index, subject to tracking errors. It follows a passive investment strategy, meaning it will invest in the stocks constituting the index in approximately the same proportions.

Fund Details

  • Category: Equity – Index Fund
  • Scheme Type: Open-ended
  • Benchmark: Nifty Commodities Index (Total Return Index – TRI)
  • Risk Level: Very High
  • Fund Manager: Devender Singhal
  • Minimum Investment: ₹100 and any amount thereafter
  • Incremental Investment: ₹100
  • Exit Load: NIL
  • NAV Calculation: Daily

The fund will primarily invest in:

  • 95-100% in equity and equity-related securities from the Nifty Commodities Index.
  • 0-5% in debt and money market instruments for liquidity purposes.

Benchmark & Composition

The Nifty Commodities Index includes 30 companies from sectors such as oil, cement, power, metals, and chemicals. The index is designed to track companies with commodity-linked businesses.

Units of the fund can be subscribed and redeemed at NAV-based prices on any business day. The scheme will not be listed on any exchange since it is open-ended.

Risks

  • Market Risk: Returns depend on the movement of the Nifty Commodities Index.
  • Tracking Error: There may be deviations between fund performance and the index due to expenses and liquidity issues.
  • Sectoral Volatility: Commodities-based businesses are affected by price fluctuations, economic conditions, and global trade policies.

Curious about your SBI SIP returns? Get accurate estimates of your investment growth using our SBI SIP Calculator and stay ahead of your financial goals.

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.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Receives USFDA EIR for Jarod Facility

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd has received an Establishment Inspection Report (EIR) from the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its solid oral formulation facility (F-4) at Jarod, Vadodara.  The inspection was conducted between November 14-22, 2024, and the facility has been classified under “Voluntary Action Indicated” (VAI).

What Does It Mean?

A VAI classification indicates that while the inspection found certain issues, they do not require immediate regulatory action. The company can continue manufacturing and selling approved drugs and can also receive approvals for new filings. 

Any improvements related to the observations are left to the company’s discretion.

Establishment Inspection Report (EIR)

The EIR is a standard report issued by the USFDA following an inspection. It is typically sent within 30 days and contains details of the findings. The FDA classifies inspections under three categories:

  • No Action Indicated (NAI): No major issues found.
  • Voluntary Action Indicated (VAI): Some violations noted, but no immediate action required.
  • Official Action Indicated (OAI): Serious compliance issues requiring regulatory intervention.

Alembic Pharmaceuticals’ Q3 FY25 Performance

For the quarter ending December 31, 2024, the company reported a 23% year-on-year decline in net profit at ₹138.4 crore, compared to ₹180.4 crore in the same quarter last year. However, revenue from operations saw a 3.8% increase, reaching ₹1,692.7 crore from ₹1,630.6 crore in Q3 FY24.

Market Movement

On February 14, Alembic Pharmaceuticals’ shares closed at ₹809, down ₹17.20 (2.08%) from the previous session. As of 12:00 PM on February 17, the shares were trading at ₹801.10, down ₹17.05 (2.08%) for the day. Over the past month and year, the stock has dropped by 19%.

The EIR confirms the completion of the inspection, with Alembic Pharmaceuticals now expected to address the findings voluntarily.

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.

RBI Expands Pre-Approved UPI Credit Access to Small Finance Banks

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has expanded the scope of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions by allowing Small Finance Banks (SFBs) to offer pre-approved credit lines. This decision, announced on February 12, 2025, builds on the RBI’s previous decision in September 2023, when it first introduced credit lines on UPI for scheduled commercial banks and third-party apps.

How UPI Transactions Work

UPI currently allows transactions through linked savings accounts, overdraft accounts, prepaid wallets, and credit cards. With this update, users will now have the option to access pre-approved credit lines for payments. 

However, banks will determine the specific terms, including credit limits, repayment periods, and interest rates, based on their internal policies.

Customer Consent Required

Before using a pre-sanctioned credit line, users must provide explicit consent to their bank. This will help make sure that customers are aware of borrowing conditions and any applicable charges before utilising the facility.

For customers of Small Finance Banks, this feature provides an additional short-term credit option. Instead of applying for a separate loan, individuals can use their pre-approved credit lines directly through UPI, similar to how they use bank accounts or credit cards.

Implementation Details

Banks will set their own policies regarding how these credit lines are offered. The RBI notification states that each financial institution must define the terms, which may include interest rates, borrowing limits, and repayment terms.

Growth in the Industry 

Both UPI and credit card transactions have increased majorly in the past five years. This update integrates another borrowing option within UPI, giving users access to short-term credit through the same platform they use for regular transactions.

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.

Top 3 Mutual Funds That Tripled Investors’ Wealth in Just 5 Years

Mid-cap mutual funds have gained popularity for their potential to deliver higher returns by investing in companies poised for significant growth. Over the past 5 years, several mid-cap funds have delivered impressive returns of over 25% per annum, helping investors triple their wealth.

Top 3 Mid-Cap Mutual Funds Based on 5-Year Annualised Returns 

Here, we highlight the top 3 mid-cap mutual funds that have delivered top performance, turning a ₹1 lakh investment into over ₹3 lakh in just 5 year

Scheme Name Launch Date AUM ₹ in Cr NAV in ₹ Invested Amount in ₹ Current Value in ₹ Annualised return for 5 year
Quant Midcap 01-01-2013 8,782.38 224.75 1,00,000 3,75,265 30.24
Baroda BNP Paribas Mid Cap Fund 01-01-2013 2,186.47 107.73 1,00,000 3,45,947 28.14
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund 24-02-2014 26,421.09 106.30 1,00,000 3,42,450 27.88

Data as of February 13, 2025. 

Quant Midcap Fund

Quant Midcap Fund has been the best performer among mid-cap funds, delivering a stellar 30.24% annualised return over 5 years. A ₹1 lakh investment in this fund five years ago would have grown to ₹3.75 lakh today. 

Baroda BNP Paribas Mid Cap Fund

Baroda BNP Paribas Mid Cap Fund has delivered a steady and consistent performance over the past 5 years, compounding at an annualised 28.14% return. A ₹1 lakh investment in this fund has grown to ₹3.45 lakh.

Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund

Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund has been another top performer, posting 27.88% annualised returns in the last 5 years. An investment of ₹1 lakh in this fund five years ago would now be worth ₹3.42 lakh.

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.

Top 5 Mutual Funds with Over ₹15,000 Crore Cash in Their Portfolio – January 2025

Mutual funds strategically manage their cash holdings based on market conditions, liquidity needs, and investor inflows and outflows. By January 2025, 5 major mutual funds held over ₹15,000 crore in cash within their portfolios. While the overall cash allocation increased from 5.17% in December to 5.32% in January, the absolute cash holdings saw a marginal decline of ₹596 crore.

Let’s take a closer look at these 5 mutual funds and their respective cash positions.

SBI Mutual Fund 

SBI Mutual Fund, the largest asset manager in India, maintained a cash balance of ₹33,626 crore in January 2025. This accounted for 5% of its total Assets Under Management (AUM). With an equity AUM of ₹6.39 lakh crore.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund had approximately ₹23,808 crore in cash, representing 5.89% of its total AUM in January 2025. The fund’s equity AUM stood at ₹3.80 lakh crore.

HDFC Mutual Fund 

HDFC Mutual Fund’s cash allocation amounted to ₹22,191 crore, making up 6.10% of its total AUM. In terms of equity investments, it managed an AUM of ₹3.41 lakh crore during the same period.

PPFAS Mutual Fund

PPFAS Mutual Fund stood out with the highest proportion of cash relative to its total AUM. It held ₹18,277 crore in cash, equating to 19.39% of its total AUM. Its equity AUM was recorded at ₹75,997 crore in January 2025.

Axis Mutual Fund 

Axis Mutual Fund held a little over ₹16,000 crore in cash, which accounted for 8.61% of its total AUM. The fund had an equity AUM of ₹1.69 lakh crore.

Trends in Mutual Fund Cash Holdings

  1. Overall Increase in Allocation: The total cash allocation across these mutual funds increased slightly to 5.32% in January from 5.17% in December.
  2. Absolute Decline in Cash Reserves: Despite the rise in allocation percentage, the total cash holdings decreased by ₹596 crore on a monthly basis.
  3. Varying Cash Management Strategies: PPFAS Mutual Fund had the highest cash ratio at 19.39%, while SBI Mutual Fund had the largest absolute cash reserve at ₹33,626 crore.

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.

Ultratech Cement Expands Grinding Capacity by 0.6 MTPA in Tamil Nadu

UltraTech Cement, India’s largest manufacturer of grey cement, Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC), and white cement, continues to strengthen its market presence with strategic capacity expansions.

Commission of 0.6 MTPA Capacity

The company has successfully commissioned an additional 0.6 MTPA slag-based grinding capacity at its existing facility in Karur, Tamil Nadu. This follows the earlier commissioning of a 2.7 MTPA greenfield grinding unit at the same location on April 2, 2024, bringing the plant’s total capacity to an impressive 3.30 MTPA.

This expansion will significantly enhance UltraTech’s ability to cater to the growing demand for composite cement in the southern region while optimising its blended cement ratio. The company remains steadfast in its commitment to improving clinker conversion efficiency, a key pillar of its long-term growth strategy. These strategic investments underscore UltraTech’s pursuit of operational excellence, sustainability, and enhanced market competitiveness.

Following this expansion, UltraTech Cement’s total domestic grey cement capacity now stands at 166.91 MTPA. Including its overseas operations of 5.4 MTPA, the company’s global cement capacity has reached an outstanding 172.31 MTPA, solidifying its leadership in the cement industry.

Share Price Performance 

At market close on February 14, 2025, UltraTech Cement shares settled at ₹11,256 per share 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.