JTL Industries Secures ₹24 Crore GI Pipe Order for Jal Jeevan Mission

JTL Industries Limited has secured a significant order from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department, Jammu, for the supply of 3,000 metric tonnes of galvanised iron (GI) pipes. The order, valued at ₹24 crore, is a part of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)—India’s ambitious initiative to provide tap water to every rural household. The supply is expected to be completed within the next 30 days.

Jal Jeevan Mission: Expanding India’s Water Infrastructure

The Jal Jeevan Mission, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2019, aims to provide piped water to every rural household. Since its inception, the coverage has expanded from 17% (3.23 crore households) to 79.74% (15.44 crore households) as of February 1, 2025.

Given the complexities of reaching the final 20% coverage, the Indian government has extended JJM until 2028 with an increased budget. The Jal Shakti Ministry has estimated an additional investment of ₹4 lakh crore to complete the mission, with ₹67,000 crore allocated for FY 2025-26 alone.

JTL Industries’ Role in JJM and Water Infrastructure Projects

JTL Industries, a key supplier in India’s infrastructure projects, has a strong reputation for manufacturing and delivering high-quality GI pipes. The company’s expertise in water infrastructure projects positions it well to capitalise on the growing demand for durable and reliable piping solutions.

Commenting on this order, JTL Industries’ management expressed confidence in their ability to support the next phase of JJM. The company highlighted its manufacturing capabilities, track record in government projects, and commitment to quality, reinforcing its potential for future contracts in the water infrastructure sector.

About JTL Industries Limited

JTL Industries Limited is a leading steel tube manufacturer, specialising in ERW Black Pipes, Pre-Galvanised and Galvanised Steel Pipes, large-diameter tubes, and hollow sections. The company has manufacturing facilities across Punjab, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, with a combined production capacity of 6,86,000 metric tonnes per annum (MTPA) for pipes and 3,00,000 MTPA for backward integration.

JTL Industries is recognised as a Star Export House, with a diverse product portfolio catering to various industrial and infrastructure applications. The company supplies hot dip galvanised, pre-galvanised, and MS black pipes to meet the needs of different projects.

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

Debt Mutual Fund Taxation in India: What Investors Need to Know After Budget Changes

After the setback in the previous budget, debt mutual fund investors have found renewed optimism in Budget 2025. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that individuals with incomes up to ₹12 lakh will effectively pay no income tax due to a ₹60,000 rebate under Section 87A. However, this relief does not extend to all types of income, particularly capital gains from stocks and property sales.

Understanding the Tax Rebate: Not All Income Qualifies 

While the ₹12 lakh tax-free threshold sounds promising, it is essential to understand that capital gains taxed at special rates do not qualify for this rebate. For instance, if an individual earns ₹10 lakh from salary and ₹2 lakh from capital gains, the rebate applies only to the salaried portion. The capital gains tax still needs to be paid separately.

Fortunately, debt mutual funds purchased after April 2023 fall under Section 50AA and qualify for the rebate, unlike units acquired before April 2023, which are taxed differently. The key rule to remember is that income taxed at slab rates is eligible for a tax rebate, whereas capital gains from equities, equity MFs, and property sales are not.

How Will This Benefit Debt Mutual Fund Investors? 

To illustrate the impact of these changes, let’s take an example of a retiree who redeems part of their debt mutual fund portfolio purchased after April 2023.

Before April 2025

If Raj realises ₹12 lakh in capital gains from his debt mutual fund before April 2025, this income will be taxed as per the slab rates. Under the new tax regime, any income above ₹3 lakh becomes taxable. This means Raj would pay ₹83,200 in tax (including cess) if he sells before April 2025.

After April 2025

If the same investment is redeemed after April 2025, the tax liability would be zero, thanks to the ₹60,000 rebate under Section 87A and an increased exemption limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹4 lakh. This results in a direct tax saving of ₹83,200.

What About Debt Funds Bought Before April 2023? 

Debt mutual funds purchased before April 2023 fall under Section 122 and do not qualify for the rebate. These funds, when held for over 24 months, attract a long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) of 12.5%. However, Budget 2025 still offers partial relief.

Scenario 1: Selling Before April 2025

A person with ₹12 lakh in capital gains from a debt fund bought before April 2023 would be taxed at 12.5% on ₹9 lakh (₹3 lakh exemption limit). This results in a tax liability of ₹1.12 lakh plus ₹4,500 education cess, totalling ₹1.17 lakh.

Scenario 2: Selling After April 2025

Post-April 2025, the exemption limit increases to ₹4 lakh, meaning only ₹8 lakh of gains would be taxed at 12.5%, reducing the total tax liability to ₹1.04 lakh. The increased exemption limit effectively saves ₹13,000 in taxes.

Key Takeaways for Debt Mutual Fund Investors

  1. Know Your Purchase Date: If you acquired debt mutual funds after April 2023, your gains are taxed at slab rates and are eligible for the ₹60,000 rebate under Section 87A.
  2. Budget 2025’s Impact: The exemption limit increase from ₹3 lakh to ₹4 lakh helps investors reduce their tax burden.
  3. Timing Matters: Investors planning to redeem their debt mutual funds should consider waiting until after April 2025 to maximise tax benefits, unless an urgent need arises.

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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 are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully.

Info Edge Announces 1:5 Stock Split: Share Price Surges 3%

Info Edge, a leading online classified and recruitment company, has announced a stock split in the ratio of 1:5. The decision was approved by the company’s board and disclosed through an exchange filing on February 5, 2024. Following the announcement, Info Edge’s share price surged nearly 3% as of 12:50 PM.

Rationale Behind the Stock Split

The company stated that the primary objective of the stock split is to enhance liquidity and encourage participation from retail investors by making its shares more affordable. Lowering the face value of each share enables smaller investors to invest in the company at a more accessible price point, potentially broadening the shareholder base.

Breakdown of the Stock Split

  • Existing equity shares of ₹10 face value each will be subdivided into 5 equity shares with a face value of ₹2 each.
  • Authorised share capital post-split will stand at ₹75 crore, with equity shares of ₹2 face value each.
  • The process is expected to be completed within 2 months, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.

Record Date Yet to Be Announced

While Info Edge has confirmed the stock split, the company has not yet disclosed the record date for the adjustment. In a regulatory filing, the company clarified that the record date will be determined after obtaining necessary approvals and will be communicated in due course.

Quarterly Earnings Report Awaited

Apart from the stock split announcement, Info Edge is set to release its fiscal Q3 earnings report on February 5, 2025.

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

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

SEBI Introduces New Regulations for Retail Algo Trading to Enhance Market Safety

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced a new regulatory framework to facilitate the safer participation of retail investors in algorithmic (algo) trading. With increasing demand from retail investors, SEBI aims to ensure robust risk management, transparency, and compliance while protecting market integrity.

The Need for Regulatory Intervention

Algo trading, which allows for automated execution of orders, has traditionally been used by institutional investors. However, growing interest from retail investors has prompted SEBI to refine its regulatory oversight. This framework aims to balance innovation with the necessary safeguards to mitigate risks associated with automated trading strategies.

Key Features of the New Algo Trading Framework

1. API-Based Algo Trading and Unique Identifiers

  • Brokers will act as the principal while algo providers function as agents.
  • All algo orders processed via brokers’ Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) will be assigned a unique identifier from the stock exchange.
  • Tech-savvy retail investors developing their own algorithms must register with the exchange if they exceed a specified order-per-second threshold.
  • Such registered algos can be used within the family but not for other investors.

2. Stringent Broker Responsibilities

Brokers facilitating algo trading must:

  • Ensure systems can detect algo orders above the threshold.
  • Implement two-factor authentication for API access.
  • Only work with empanelled algo providers, assuming responsibility for complaints and compliance.

3. Mandatory Empanelment of Algo Providers

  • Although algo providers will not be directly regulated by SEBI, they must be empanelled with exchanges.
  • Exchanges will establish empanelment criteria, and brokers must conduct due diligence before onboarding any provider.
  • Subscription charges and brokerage sharing between algo providers and brokers must be disclosed transparently to clients.

Oversight and Compliance by Stock Exchanges

1. Strengthened Surveillance and Monitoring

Stock exchanges will oversee algo trading activities through:

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for algo testing.
  • Real-time surveillance and simulation testing.
  • A kill switch mechanism to halt any malfunctioning algo.

2. Algo Categorisation: White Box vs Black Box

  • White Box Algos (Execution Algos) – Transparent algorithms where logic is fully disclosed to users.
  • Black Box Algos – Proprietary algorithms where logic is undisclosed and non-replicable.
    • Algo providers offering Black Box Algos must register as Research Analysts.
    • Any modifications in logic will require fresh registration and maintenance of research reports.

Implementation Timeline

The industry standards for implementation will be formulated by the Broker’s Industry Standards Forum by April 1, 2025, and the new provisions will take effect from August 1, 2025.

Conclusion

SEBI’s new regulatory framework ensures that retail investors can engage in algo trading safely, with clear guidelines for brokers, exchanges, and algo providers. These measures aim to protect investor interests while fostering innovation and transparency in automated trading.

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

JSW Energy Share Price Gains 5% After Securing 1.6 GW Power Project from WBSEDCL

JSW Energy has received a Letter of Award (LoA) from the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL) for the development and operation of a 1,600 MW (2×800 MW) super/ultra-supercritical coal-based thermal power plant. The project, awarded through a competitive bidding process, will utilise domestic coal allocated under the SHAKTI B (iv) policy.

The share price of JSW Energy has gained 5% as of 12:25 PM on February 5, 2025.

JSW Energy Reaches 30 GW Capacity Milestone

With this latest project win, JSW Energy has achieved a total locked-in generation capacity of 30 GW, of which 9 GW comes from thermal power. This strengthens the company’s position as one of India’s leading private power producers and brings it closer to its goal of reaching 20 GW of generation capacity well before 2030.

A Diversified Energy Portfolio

JSW Energy’s power generation mix includes a diverse portfolio spanning:

  • Thermal Power – 3,508 MW
  • Wind Energy – 2,668 MW
  • Hydropower – 1,391 MW
  • Solar Power – 675 MW

The company’s focus on prudent capital allocation and corporate governance has enabled it to maintain a strong foothold in the power sector while ensuring sustainable growth.

JSW Energy’s Expansion Strategy

Having started operations in 2000 with a 260 MW thermal plant in Karnataka, JSW Energy has expanded significantly. The company is currently constructing power projects with a combined capacity of 8.3 GW, reinforcing its commitment to clean energy and efficient power generation.

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 and Silver Prices on February 5, 2025: Check Rates in Your City

Gold prices have increased on February 5, 2025, both in India and international markets, gaining over 0.50%. This rise is attributed to central banks extending their gold-buying spree for the 15th consecutive year in 2024, pushing total demand for gold to a record-high annual level, according to the World Gold Council. With no signs of slowing down, central banks continue their strong appetite for the precious metal.

In the international market, spot gold increased by 0.55%, reaching $2,858.47 per ounce as of 11:50 PM, marking a fresh all-time high on February 5, 2025.

In India, gold prices have risen by ₹470 in major metro cities. In Mumbai, the price of 24-carat gold is ₹8,421 per gram, while 22-carat gold is priced at ₹7,719 per gram. The 10-gram price of 24-carat gold stands at ₹84,210, reflecting an increase of ₹480 as of 11:50 PM. Similarly, in Delhi, 22-carat gold is trading at ₹77,101 per 10 grams, whereas 24-carat gold is priced at ₹84,110 per 10 grams.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities on February 5, 2025

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of February 5, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 84,450 77,413
Hyderabad 84,340 77,312
Delhi 84,110 77,101
Mumbai 84,210 77,193
Bangalore 84,270 77,248

Silver Prices in India on February 5, 2025

  • International silver prices increased marginally by 0.02%, reaching $32.32 per ounce as of 11:55 AM.
  • In India, silver prices rose by ₹100 per kg in major cities.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities (₹/KG)

City Silver Rate in ₹/KG 
Mumbai 95,990
Delhi 95,970
Kolkata 95,870
Chennai 96,270

Key Takeaways

Gold Prices: 22-carat and 24-carat gold prices increased in India and international spot gold hit an all-time high.
Silver Prices: Silver rates increased across major cities.

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

Dabur Adopts 3-Year Strategic Vision Cycle for Greater Agility Amid FMCG Slowdown

Home-grown FMCG major Dabur has recalibrated its long-term strategic planning approach, reducing the duration of its vision cycle from four years to three. The move aims to create a more agile organisation amid ongoing challenges in the FMCG sector and a volatile global economic landscape.

To facilitate this transition, Dabur has enlisted the services of global consultancy firm McKinsey & Co. The engagement will help refine and realign the company’s strategies to navigate industry headwinds more effectively.

Dabur’s share price was trading with a modest loss of 0.25% as of 11:44 AM on February 5, 2025.

Navigating Change with External Expertise

Dabur’s CEO, Mohit Malhotra, highlighted the rationale behind this shift during an earnings call, stating: “This exercise has already begun, and we plan to conclude the same by the end of the fiscal year. This will enable us to capture emerging opportunities and navigate the future with a sharper and more focused vision.”

Dabur has historically followed a four-year vision cycle and is currently in its seventh iteration. However, Malhotra pointed out that in light of increasing macroeconomic volatility and the challenges facing the FMCG sector, a shorter planning horizon is necessary.

“Earlier, we used to have a four-year vision cycle… We feel that in this volatile and heavy-headwind macroeconomic environment and FMCG not doing so well as a sector… we require validation of our strategies through an external consultant,” he explained.

Fine-Tuning Strategies for a Rapidly Changing Market

Malhotra further elaborated that shortening the vision period would enable the company to adjust strategies more efficiently.

“Four years becomes a longish period and therefore we have truncated it to three years, and it’s also in line with the best practice in the industry which is also around three years,” he stated.

McKinsey & Co’s involvement in the strategic review will extend to an in-depth assessment of the company’s key categories, including Chyawanprash and beverages.

“So, they will focus on that along with defining the numbers in the milestones for the next three years, and this vision exercise will dovetail into the next year’s budgeting cycle also for us,” Malhotra explained.

Evaluating Business Performance with a Fresh Perspective

Beyond refining strategic milestones, McKinsey’s role will involve a critical assessment of Dabur’s business operations, including both high-performing and underperforming segments.

“At the moment, we have not linked them to our target achievement. But that is something that we will contemplate after this exercise is over,” Malhotra stated.

The external consultant will also challenge the validity of existing business models, ensuring that each segment contributes meaningfully to Dabur’s long-term growth.

By adopting a 3-year vision cycle, Dabur aims to remain adaptive and resilient in an industry that continues to face macroeconomic headwinds and shifting consumer dynamics.

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

Dynamic Services & Security Secures Railway Outsourcing Contract

Dynamic Services & Security Limited, an ISO 9001:2015 & ISO 45001:2018 certified organisation, has recently secured a new contract from South East Central Railway. The work order pertains to the outsourcing of box loading and unloading services for train crew and guards at Kobra (KRBA) and Brajrajnagar (BRJN) stations in the Bilaspur Division.

This development underscores the company’s role in railway logistics support and its growing presence in the railway infrastructure sector.

The share price of Dynamic Services & Security was trading in the green, up by 1.01% as of 11:23 AM.

Contract Details and Scope of Work

According to the disclosure made under SEBI’s Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR) Regulations, 2015, the contract involves:

  • Project Scope: Outsourcing of box loading/unloading for train crew and guards at both UP and Down directions at Kobra and Brajrajnagar stations.
  • Contract Duration: The project will run for 2 years, starting from February 1, 2025 and concluding on January 31, 2027.
  • Contract Value: The total contract value is ₹1,26,41,205.60 (₹1.26 crore).
  • Awarding Entity: The contract has been awarded by South East Central Railway, a domestic entity.

Strategic Significance for Dynamic Services & Security

This contract reinforces Dynamic Services & Security Limited’s ability to secure railway infrastructure projects, aligning with its operational expertise in security and logistics. With a 2-year execution period, the project will contribute to the company’s revenue stream while strengthening its presence in railway outsourcing services.

Additionally, the company has clarified that neither its promoters nor any related parties have a vested interest in the awarding entity, 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

Rail Vikas Nigam Secures Contract for Koraput-Singapur Road Doubling Project

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a government enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has received a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from East Coast Railway for a significant infrastructure project under the Koraput-Singapur Road Doubling Project. The awarded contract involves executing major bridge construction and associated works between Tikiri and Bhalumaska stations in the Waltair Division.

The share price of RVNL is trading 1.55% higher as of 11:11 AM on February 5, 2025.

Project Details and Scope of Work

The contract includes the execution of 27 major bridges, comprising 22 major bridges and 5 road over bridges (ROBs). Additionally, RVNL will undertake earthwork in the formation of approaches, protection structures, and other miscellaneous tasks necessary for the doubling project. This initiative aims to enhance railway infrastructure and improve connectivity in the region.

Project Cost and Timeline

The total project cost is ₹404.40 crore, inclusive of GST. The execution timeline for completion is set at 30 months, ensuring that the work is carried out efficiently and within the designated timeframe.

Strategic Importance of the Project

The Koraput-Singapur Road Doubling Project is a critical part of the East Coast Railway’s expansion plans. The addition of new bridges and supporting structures will enhance operational efficiency, facilitate better rail connectivity, and support economic growth in the region. Doubling railway lines reduces congestion and enables seamless freight and passenger movement.

Upcoming Financial Results Announcement

RVNL has also notified the stock exchanges that its Q3FY25 financial results will be declared following a Board Meeting scheduled for February 12, 2025. 

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

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

US Trade Deficit with India Surpasses That with Canada: A Closer Look at Trade Imbalances

US President Donald Trump’s threats to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports created global market turbulence, only to be paused for a month in exchange for border security measures. The episode, described by many as political theatre, highlighted a larger issue—whether these tariff threats were targeting the right nations.

US Trade Deficit: India vs. Canada

Despite the focus on Canada and Mexico, data reveals that the United States trade deficit with India is notably higher. In 2023, the US trade deficit with India reached $45,640 million, significantly exceeding the $40,627 million deficit with Canada. This trend has continued into 2024, with India’s trade deficit standing at $39,248 million in the first three quarters, compared to Canada’s $24,148 million.

A Larger Trade Gap: India’s Growing Role

The persistent trade imbalance between the US and India underscores the latter’s increasing significance in global trade. While Canada remains a key trade partner, the deficit numbers indicate that US trade policies might need recalibration. India, along with China, the European Union, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, contributes more to the US trade deficit than Canada, raising questions about tariff strategies and trade priorities.

Tariff Policies and Economic Implications

From a mercantilist perspective, placing Canada and Mexico on the same tariff footing appears questionable, given that Mexico’s trade deficit with the US is substantially larger than Canada’s. The same logic applies to India, where a significant deficit exists, yet it has not been a major target of tariff measures compared to China.

Conclusion: A Need for Strategic Trade Policies

The US trade deficit figures suggest a need for a more balanced and strategic approach to trade policies. Rather than broad-brush tariff threats, a nuanced analysis of trade relationships could lead to more effective economic decisions. As trade deficits with countries like India continue to rise, future US trade policies will likely need to adapt to the shifting dynamics of global commerce.

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