HBL Engineering Secures ₹410 Crore Order from Indian Railways

HBL Engineering Limited, formerly known as HBL Power Systems Limited, has received an order worth ₹410.42 crore (inclusive of 18% GST) from the Ahmedabad Division of Western Railway. The order has been issued to the HBL-Shivakriti Consortium, where HBL Engineering is the lead member.

Scope of Work

The contract involves the supply and installation of way-side Kavach across two railway sections:

  • Ahmedabad-Palanpur section
  • Ahmedabad-Samakhiyali section

The total coverage spans 402 km. The project is expected to be completed within 730 days from the issuance of the purchase order.

Kavach Implementation

Kavach is an automatic train protection (ATP) system designed to reduce the risk of train collisions. It works by controlling train speeds and braking when necessary. The Indian Railways has been deploying Kavach across multiple routes to improve safety.

Financial Considerations

The project is classified as a domestic contract. 

HBL Engineering Ltd shares are trading at ₹608.80, up ₹44.70 (7.92%) as of today, February 1, 11:41 AM. While the stock has declined 3.98% over the past month, it has gained 17.83% in the last five days.

Execution Timeline

HBL Engineering and its consortium partner, Shivakriti International, are responsible for implementing the system within the stipulated two-year period. The installation will be carried out in phases across the designated railway sections.

Regulatory Disclosure

This order was disclosed as per Regulation 30 of SEBI Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements (LODR) Regulations, 2015. Additional details were provided in compliance with SEBI’s Master Circular No. SEBI/HO/CFD/PoD2/P/0155 dated November 11, 2024, and subsequent updates from December 2024.

The order is another phase in the implementation of Kavach across India’s railway network. The project will be monitored over the next two years as the installation progresses on the Ahmedabad Division routes.

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

Quess Corp’s Shares Rise After Promoter Purchases

Quess Corp Limited has announced that its promoter, Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited, has acquired equity shares of the company. This acquisition was conducted through market trades on the stock exchanges and represents a minor percentage of the company’s paid-up capital.

Acquisition Details

Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited purchased 3,77,218 equity shares of Quess Corp Limited, amounting to 0.25% of the company’s total paid-up capital. The transaction took place on 1st February 2025, as per the disclosure submitted to the stock exchanges. The acquisition aligns with the regulatory framework, and necessary disclosures under SEBI’s Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers Regulations, 2011, and SEBI’s Prohibition of Insider Trading Regulations, 2015, will be filed accordingly.

Regulatory Compliance

In adherence to SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015, Quess Corp Limited has officially notified the stock exchanges regarding the share purchase. Such acquisitions require timely disclosure to ensure transparency in financial transactions and compliance with regulatory norms. The company has assured that all necessary documentation and regulatory filings will be completed as per SEBI’s guidelines.

Quess Corp Share Performance

As of February 01, 2025, at 1:38 PM, shares of Quess Corp are trading at ₹622.70 per share up by 6.30% from its previous day’s closing price. The stock has fallen by 6.35% over the past month

Conclusion

The acquisition by Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited indicates continued confidence in Quess Corp Limited. The company has fulfilled its disclosure obligations under SEBI regulations, ensuring compliance with market regulations.

 

Tata Power Arm Tata Power Renewable Energy Signed MoU With Rajasthan

Tata Power subsidiary Tata Power Renewable Energy Limited (TPREL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rajasthan’s power distribution companies (Discoms) to promote rooftop solar adoption. 

The agreement includes Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JVVNL), Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (AVVNL), and Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JDVVNL) and focuses on implementing the Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar: Muft Bijali Yojana (PMSG: MBY) in residential areas.

Focus Areas

The partnership aims to increase solar installations in Rajasthan, starting with cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, and Bikaner before expanding to other regions. This will involve awareness programs, vendor training, and cost-effective solutions to encourage more households to adopt solar energy.

Officials Present at the Signing

The MoU was signed in the presence of Additional Chief Secretary – Energy, Alok, and Chairperson of Rajasthan Discoms, Arti Dogra. Other attendees included Deepesh Nanda, CEO & Managing Director of TPREL, and Shivram Bikkina, Chief of Solar Rooftop & EV Charging Business at TPREL. 

Senior officials from Rajasthan Discoms and representatives of the PMSG: MBY scheme were also part of the signing event.

Rajasthan’s Solar Energy Push

Rajasthan has been focusing on increasing its renewable energy capacity, and this partnership is part of that larger plan. The state already has a major presence in solar energy, and rooftop installations are seen as a way to expand its renewable portfolio while providing cost-efficient energy alternatives to households.

With the initial phase targeting major cities in Rajasthan, further expansion will depend on adoption rates and infrastructure readiness. 

TPREL’s Role

TPREL has been involved in various renewable energy projects across the country. Under this MoU, the company will work with Rajasthan Discoms to streamline solar adoption, provide pricing for installations, and train local vendors for better execution.

Tata Power Company Ltd was trading at ₹372.75, up ₹20.60 (5.85%) today as of Feb 1, 12:14 PM, but has declined 5.08% over the past month and 4.23% over the past year.

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

Hero MotoCorp CEO Niranjan Gupta to Step Down on April 30

Niranjan Gupta has resigned as the CEO of Hero MotoCorp, with his departure effective April 30, 2025. The company announced that Vikram Kasbekar, currently the Executive Director (Operations), will take over as acting CEO from May 1, 2025, until a permanent replacement is found.

Management Reshuffle

Along with the CEO transition, Hero MotoCorp has made several leadership changes:

  • Ram Kuppuswamy, Chief Procurement Officer, will take on an expanded role as Chief Operations Officer (COO) – Manufacturing from April 1, 2025.
  • Ashutosh Varma, National Sales Head – India Business Unit, will become Chief Business Officer (CBO) – IBU from May 1, 2025, replacing Ranjivjit Singh.
  • Jyoti Singh, currently Head HR – R&D, will be elevated to Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer on February 1, 2025.

Niranjan Gupta’s Background

Gupta, who joined Hero MotoCorp in 2017, served as CFO before being promoted to CEO in 2023. His tenure included financial restructuring and partnerships with brands like Harley-Davidson. Before Hero MotoCorp, he worked at Vedanta and Unilever.

EV Unit Becomes Independent

Hero MotoCorp announced that its EV & Emerging Mobility Business Unit (EMBU) will operate independently starting February 1, 2025. The division will report to Executive Chairman Pawan Munjal.

The company’s board is to meet on February 6, 2025, to discuss and approve the unaudited financial results for the quarter and nine-month period ending December 31, 2024.

Financial Performance

The company reported a consolidated net profit of ₹1,045.89 crore in Q2 FY25, a 26.29% increase from the previous year. Revenue from operations rose by 15.4% to ₹10,210.79 crore.

Following the announcement, Hero MotoCorp’s stock fell 1.18% to ₹4,289.65. Despite this, shares had closed 3.84% higher at ₹4,340.85 the previous day. However, today, Hero MotoCorp Ltd shares are trading at ₹4,266.70 as of 12:01 PM on February 1, up 2.13% today, recovering 5.77% over the past five days but still down 20.55% in the last six months.

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

Ganesha Ecosphere and Race Eco Chain Form Joint Venture

Ganesha Ecosphere Limited (GESL) has signed a joint venture agreement with Race Eco Chain Limited (RACE) to set up washing plants to produce PET flakes. The joint venture company, named Ganesha Recycling Chain Private Limited, is expected to strengthen the supply chain for PET waste.

Ownership and Investment Details

Under the agreement, RACE will hold a 51% stake, while Ganesha will own 49% of the joint venture. Both companies will have equal representation on the Board of Directors.

For this venture, Ganesha has subscribed to 29,40,000 equity shares at ₹10 each, amounting to ₹29.4 crore. RACE has subscribed to 30,60,000 equity shares at ₹10 each, totalling ₹30.6 crores.

Purpose of the Joint Venture

The joint venture is part of Ganesha’s strategy to improve its raw material supply chain for PET waste. PET flakes are widely used in manufacturing recycled polyester fibre, which has applications in textiles and packaging.

Both companies have the right to appoint an equal number of directors to the board. Other terms include:

  • Right to first share subscription in case of issuance
  • Restrictions on changes to the capital structure

Financials of the Companies

As per the FY24 financial statements, Ganesha Ecosphere recorded a revenue of ₹9,753.40 crore and a net worth of ₹10,891.52 crore, while Race Eco Chain reported a revenue of ₹3,384.98 crore with a net worth of ₹222.87 crore.

As of February 1, 11:54 AM, Ganesha Ecosphere Ltd is trading at ₹1,690.00, up 3.30% (₹53.95) today, but has declined 14.05% over the past month, while gaining 9.53% in the last five days. 

Meanwhile, Race Eco Chain Ltd is at ₹339.05 as of 11:56 AM, rising 2.60% (₹8.60) today, with a 10.34% drop over the past month but a 3.38% gain in the last five days.

Industry Context

India generates around 3.5 million tonnes of PET waste annually. The joint venture is expected to increase waste processing capacity and improve the supply of raw materials for recycled products.

The agreement is not a related party transaction, and neither company is part of the other’s promoter group. There are no conflicts of interest arising from the agreement.

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

WeWork India Files Papers for IPO with SEBI

WeWork India, backed by the Embassy Group, has submitted draft papers to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for an initial public offering (IPO). The company, which operates flexible workspaces across major Indian cities, is looking to raise funds through a public listing.

IPO Structure

The IPO will be entirely an offer-for-sale (OFS) of 4.37 crore equity shares. There will be no fresh issue component. Embassy Buildcon LLP, the promoter, will sell 3.34 crore shares, while investor 1 Ariel Way Tenant will offload 1.03 crore shares.

Since this is a pure OFS, the company will not receive any proceeds from the IPO. The funds will go directly to the selling shareholders after deducting applicable expenses and taxes.

Ownership and Business Overview

WeWork India is primarily owned by Embassy Buildcon LLP, which holds a 76.21% stake. The remaining 23.45% is owned by other public shareholders, including 1 Ariel Way Tenant. The Embassy Group, the real estate developer in India with over 85 million square feet of commercial space, is the company’s promoter.

WeWork India, headquartered in Bengaluru, has been operating since 2017 under an exclusive licensing agreement with the global WeWork brand. The company runs 59 centres across office markets, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Gurgaon, Noida, Delhi, and Chennai. Its total leasable area is 6.48 million square feet, with 94,440 desks.

Financials

For FY24, the company reported a loss of ₹135.8 crore, lower than the ₹146.8 crore loss in the previous year. Revenue increased by 26.7%, reaching ₹1,665.1 crore, up from ₹1,314.5 crore in FY23. In the first six months of FY25 (April-September 2024), WeWork India posted a profit of ₹174.6 crore on revenue of ₹918.2 crore.

Merchant Bankers and Competition

JM Financial, ICICI Securities, Jefferies India, Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, and 360 ONE WAM have been appointed as the book-running lead managers for the IPO.

WeWork India’s listed competitor in India is Awfis Space Solutions. Another managed workspace provider, IndiQube Spaces, filed IPO papers in December 2024 to raise ₹850 crore.

The company has stated that it does not plan to conduct a pre-IPO placement before the listing.

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 Plans to Introduce a New Combo Product Pairing Mutual Funds With Term Life Insurance

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is working on an innovative financial product aimed at increasing financial inclusion across the country. SEBI’s Chairperson, Madhabi Puri Buch, recently shared details about a new initiative that will allow investors to pair mutual fund investments with life insurance. 

This development, expected to expand access to financial products, particularly in rural areas, will offer an affordable combination of insurance and investment options to underserved communities. The regulator’s ongoing efforts are designed to address the needs of investors while leveraging technology to enhance trust in the financial system.

New Product Aimed at Expanding Financial Access

SEBI’s new product will give investors the option to link their mutual fund investments with life insurance, specifically a term life policy. This initiative aligns with the regulator’s goal of reaching more investors, especially in rural areas where Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) remain underdeveloped, despite their vast potential. By introducing a low-cost, bundled offering, SEBI aims to provide an accessible solution that meets the financial needs of a broader demographic. The new product will also keep the marginal cost of the additional life insurance premium minimal, benefiting both investors and financial service providers.

Buch highlighted that SEBI’s efforts are targeted at growing the reach of mutual funds, particularly in areas where SIP investments are still low. She emphasised that the new combo product would address the demand for affordable insurance solutions alongside investment opportunities, which is a step towards financial inclusion for rural and underserved communities.

SEBI’s Focus on Trust and Security in the Digital Ecosystem

In addition to the combo product, SEBI is also focused on increasing trust in the financial ecosystem by leveraging technology. The regulator is planning to introduce the “Pay Right” initiative, which will allow investors to verify the authenticity of a UPI ID before making financial transactions. This initiative aims to combat digital fraud, ensuring that investors can confirm they are making payments to legitimate recipients.

The emphasis on digital assurance comes at a time when fraud in the digital space is becoming a growing concern. By integrating robust KYC (Know Your Customer) protocols, SEBI plans to help differentiate legitimate financial intermediaries from fraudulent entities, reinforcing investor confidence in the digital landscape.


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 Funds Announces Holiday on Budget Day

Despite the equity markets remaining operational on February 1, 2025, for the Union Budget presentation, mutual fund transactions will not be processed. Asset management companies (AMCs) have designated the day as a non-business day, meaning no sales or redemptions of mutual fund units will take place.

Mutual Fund Transactions Suspended

On Budget Day, all mutual funds will observe a non-business day, as per a notice issued by the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). While net asset values (NAVs) for mutual fund schemes will still be declared, investors will not be able to buy or redeem units at the day’s NAV. Instead, any requests for transactions made on February 1 will be processed at the closing NAV of Monday, February 3. The restriction applies across all schemes, and the BSE StAR MF platform will also observe a non-business day.

ETF Trading and Equity Market Operations

In contrast to mutual funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) will remain active on February 1. As stock markets are open, ETF units can be bought and sold at market prices, with their NAVs declared in alignment with benchmark indices. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the BSE have confirmed full trading sessions on Budget Day, maintaining the precedent set in previous years, such as on February 1, 2020, and February 28, 2015, when markets operated on Saturdays for the Budget presentation.

Conclusion

While equity markets will function as usual on February 1, mutual fund transactions will be restricted due to AMCs designating it as a non-business day. ETFs, however, will continue trading in line with stock market movements.

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.

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.

Surge in Retail Participation in Mutual Funds: Economic Survey 2025 Highlights Growth

The Economic Survey 2025 has highlighted a significant rise in retail participation in mutual funds, particularly through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). With over 10 crore SIP accounts created and cumulative inflows reaching ₹10.9 lakh crore since inception, individual investors are playing an increasingly vital role in the Indian securities market.

Growth in SIP Contributions and Mutual Fund Holdings

The report reveals that monthly SIP contributions have more than doubled in the past three years, rising from ₹0.10 lakh crore in FY22 to ₹0.23 lakh crore in FY25. Retail investors collectively hold mutual fund units worth ₹18.6 lakh crore as of December 2024, reflecting strong confidence in this investment avenue.

Additionally, the number of mutual fund folios has grown to 22.5 crore, up from 17.8 crore at the end of FY24.

The mutual fund industry’s Assets Under Management (AUM) experienced a substantial rise, reaching ₹66.9 lakh crore in December 2024. This marks a 25.3% increase from March 2024. The survey attributes this growth to sustained SIP inflows, healthy market performance, and technological advancements that have facilitated easier access to investments.

Rising Mutual Fund Ownership in Listed Companies

The increasing participation of individual investors has reshaped the Indian financial market. Mutual fund ownership in listed Indian companies reached a record 9.5% by September 2024, up from 8.7% in FY24. Direct and indirect investments by individuals now account for 17.6% of ownership in NSE-listed companies, equalling the share held by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs).

 

These developments indicate a transformation in the Indian securities market, with retail investors playing a more prominent role in wealth creation. The steady rise in SIP contributions and mutual fund ownership highlights the growing inclusivity and resilience of the market.

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.

The Economic Survey 2025 has highlighted a significant rise in retail participation in mutual funds, particularly through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). With over 10 crore SIP accounts created and cumulative inflows reaching ₹10.9 lakh crore since inception, individual investors are playing an increasingly vital role in the Indian securities market.

Growth in SIP Contributions and Mutual Fund Holdings

The report reveals that monthly SIP contributions have more than doubled in the past three years, rising from ₹0.10 lakh crore in FY22 to ₹0.23 lakh crore in FY25. Retail investors collectively hold mutual fund units worth ₹18.6 lakh crore as of December 2024, reflecting strong confidence in this investment avenue.

Additionally, the number of mutual fund folios has grown to 22.5 crore, up from 17.8 crore at the end of FY24.

The mutual fund industry’s Assets Under Management (AUM) experienced a substantial rise, reaching ₹66.9 lakh crore in December 2024. This marks a 25.3% increase from March 2024. The survey attributes this growth to sustained SIP inflows, healthy market performance, and technological advancements that have facilitated easier access to investments.

Rising Mutual Fund Ownership in Listed Companies

The increasing participation of individual investors has reshaped the Indian financial market. Mutual fund ownership in listed Indian companies reached a record 9.5% by September 2024, up from 8.7% in FY24. Direct and indirect investments by individuals now account for 17.6% of ownership in NSE-listed companies, equalling the share held by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs).

These developments indicate a transformation in the Indian securities market, with retail investors playing a more prominent role in wealth creation. The steady rise in SIP contributions and mutual fund ownership highlights the growing inclusivity and resilience of the market.

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.

EFC (I) Ltd and Pepperfry Forge Strategic Partnership to Transform Furniture and Logistics

EFC (I) Ltd and Pepperfry Ltd have signed a Term Sheet for a joint venture to expand their presence in the furniture and logistics industries across India, combining their strengths to drive innovation and growth.

Strategic Partnership to Drive Innovation  

The partnership aims to combine expertise in furniture manufacturing, logistics, and creative studios, delivering scalable solutions to meet growing demand across India and providing exceptional value to stakeholders.

Expansion Plans and Nationwide Reach

This collaboration will expand operations across India, leveraging Pepperfry’s marketplace and EFC (I)’s logistics to offer an integrated end-to-end service including display studios to enhance customer experience.

Leadership and Vision for Long-Term Growth

Umesh Kumar Sahay, Chairman and Managing Director of EFC (I), sees the partnership as a strong foundation for growth. By combining their respective strengths in logistics, franchising and business development, the companies plan to create a solid foundation that will foster sustained growth and bring new opportunities to the market. 

Completion and Regulatory Approvals

The joint venture is expected to be finished by March 2025, once it gets the necessary approvals. It aims to create a strong partnership to shape the future of the furniture and logistics industry in India.

About EFC(I)

EFC (I) Ltd, founded in 2014 by Umesh Kumar Sahay, is a Pune-based company listed on the BSE. It manages over 56,000 seats across 70+ centres in nine cities and seven states. The company serves over 570 prestigious Indian and global corporates, offering high-quality working spaces. EFC (I) is known for its expertise in logistics, franchising and business development.

EFC (I) Share Performance 

As of February 01, 2025, at 10:45 AM, With a market capitalisation of ₹26.16 billion crores, EFC(I) shares are trading at ₹527.20 per share, up 0.30% from yesterday’s closing price. Over the last month, the stock has fallen by 11.59%. The stock has a 52-week high and 52-week low of ₹716.95 per share and ₹303.10 per share respectively.

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.