SEBI Issues Further Clarifications on Finfluencer Regulations

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced stricter regulations regarding associations between registered market participants and unregistered financial influencers. These measures aim to safeguard investors from misleading advice and unwarranted claims of guaranteed returns. SEBI’s new guidelines place clear restrictions on how regulated entities engage with influencers, directly or indirectly.

Prohibition on Collaborations with Unregistered Entities

SEBI has barred brokers, mutual funds, investment advisers, exchanges, and other regulated entities from associating with unregistered financial influencers. This restriction extends to mutual fund distributors, sub-brokers, and marketing agencies working on their behalf. Any form of financial exchange, client referrals, sharing of customer information, or using influencer services for promotions is now prohibited. Additionally, partnerships with agencies that collaborate with influencers are also restricted.

Stricter Rules for Investor Educators and Advertising

Investor educators are now subject to stricter limitations. They cannot recommend specific stocks or securities, use recent market data to predict trends, or make claims regarding investor returns. SEBI has also imposed controls on advertising practices, stating that SEBI-registered firms may only run advertisements if they can ensure that their ads do not appear alongside financial influencers. Any failure to control ad placement that results in association with influencers would be considered a violation.

Conclusion

SEBI’s enhanced regulations, introduced in August 2024 and reinforced through an October 2024 advisory, have now come into effect. Violations may lead to penalties, registration cancellations, or market bans. With these measures, SEBI aims to establish a clearer regulatory framework and maintain market integrity.

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.

Mindspace REIT Acquires Commercial Space in Hyderabad for ₹2,038 Crores

A major real estate transaction is underway as Mindspace REIT plans to acquire Sustain Properties Private Ltd. for ₹2,038 Crores. This acquisition includes a large 1.82 million square feet of leasable commercial space in Hyderabad which will be carried out through a share exchange process.

Approval of Sustain Properties Acquisition

K Raheja Corp Investment Managers Private Limited plans to acquire 100% equity shares of Sustain Properties Private Limited. Sustain owns approximately 1.82 million square feet of leasable space in Commerzone Raidurg, Hyderabad. The acquisition will be executed through a share swap where Sustain’s shareholders, who belong to the K Raheja Corp Group, will receive units of Mindspace REIT in exchange for their shares.

Ramesh Nair, CEO of Mindspace REIT, said, “Buying Commerzone Raidurg is a big step in our plan to create value and growth for our unitholders.” He mentioned that this high-quality, fully rented property makes the company’s portfolio stronger, ensures stable income and supports its growth plans.

Issuance of Mindspace REIT Units

Mindspace REIT plans to issue units on a preferential basis to the shareholders of Sustain Properties. This issuance is part of the acquisition process and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. The approval process for this unit issuance will be a key agenda item for the Board.  

About Mindspace Business Parks REIT

Mindspace Business Parks REIT is a real estate investment trust (REIT) focused on high-quality commercial office spaces in India. Sponsored by K Raheja Corp, it owns and operates a portfolio of premium office properties across key cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune and Chennai. The REIT provides institutional-grade office spaces catering to global and domestic businesses, including IT, BFSI and other corporate sectors.

Share Performance of Mindspace REIT 

As of January 30, 2025, at 11:05 AM, shares of Mindspace REIT are trading at ₹375 per share, reflecting a decline of 0.12% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has registered a slight surge of 4.13% and over the last year it has increased by 1.63%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹384.99 per share, while its 52-week low is ₹316.39 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.

National Critical Mineral Mission: India’s Path to Clean Energy with an Investment of ₹34,300 Crore

The Indian government has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) with an allocation of ₹16,300 crore, alongside an expected investment of ₹18,000 crore from public sector enterprises. The mission aims to achieve self-reliance in critical minerals and accelerate the country’s green energy transition. These minerals are essential for clean energy technologies, including electric vehicles, battery production, and renewable energy infrastructure.

Strengthening Domestic Exploration and Mining

The NCMM will focus on exploring critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earth elements within India and offshore locations. The mission will enhance the regulatory framework, ensuring a fast-track approval process for mining projects. Additionally, it will promote financial incentives for mineral exploration and encourage recovery from overburden and tailings.

The initiative builds on previous legislative changes, including amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, of 1957, which facilitated the auction of 24 strategic mineral blocks. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has also intensified its exploration efforts, undertaking 368 projects over the past three years, with 195 ongoing in 2024-25 and 227 planned for 2025-26.

Expanding Overseas Acquisitions and Technological Advancements

A key objective of the mission is to reduce India’s dependence on imports by acquiring mineral assets abroad and fostering trade partnerships with resource-rich nations. The NCMM also includes the development of stockpiles for critical minerals to ensure a stable supply.

To strengthen mineral processing capabilities, the mission proposes setting up mineral processing parks and advancing research in critical mineral technologies. Establishing a Centre of Excellence on Critical Minerals is also planned to support innovation and recycling initiatives.

Conclusion

The National Critical Mineral Mission represents a comprehensive approach to securing India’s critical mineral supply chain. By intensifying domestic exploration, acquiring overseas assets, and promoting technological advancements, the mission aims to drive the nation towards self-sufficiency in clean energy resources.

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. 

Infosys Partners with Siemens to Expand AI-Driven Digital Learning

Infosys has expanded its collaboration with Siemens AG to improve digital learning using generative artificial intelligence (AI). The partnership aims to provide over 250,000 Siemens employees with upskilling opportunities and a more personalized learning experience.

Siemens’ digital learning platform, My Learning World, will integrate Infosys Topaz, an AI-first offering, and Infosys Wingspan, an AI-powered enterprise learning platform. The goal is to make learning more accessible, allowing employees to develop skills at their own pace.

Features of the Updated Platform

Several AI-driven features are being added to improve the learning experience:

  • AI-Powered Knowledge Assistant – Provides instant answers and personalized recommendations.
  • AI-Assisted Content Authoring – Generates content in multiple languages.
  • AI Chatbot – Helps learners navigate courses, understand complex concepts, and find additional study materials.
  • Virtual Tutor – Summarizes content, translates materials, and adapts learning based on user preferences.

These tools aim to make training efficient and help employees find relevant resources easily.

Siemens’ Current Digital Learning Usage

The My Learning World platform currently has 216,000 active users, with access to 178,000 learning materials. It is available to factory employees, with 27,000 shop-floor workers using the platform.

Additionally, 65,000 employees use the My Skills feature, which helps them assess their abilities and find training programs that match their needs.

Infosys and Siemens are also working on a customer-facing platform that will include over 300 technical courses for 50,000 external users, including system integrators.

Long-Term Impact

The collaboration between Infosys and Siemens continues to expand, with a focus on improving digital learning and skill development using AI. This will help create a structured and accessible learning environment for employees within Siemens and external learners in its ecosystem.

As of January 30, 12:11 PM, Infosys Ltd is trading at ₹1,864.05, down ₹17.20 (0.91%) for the day and 2.20% lower over the past month, but up 12.87% over the past year, whereas Siemens Ltd is at ₹5,880.00, gaining ₹55.45 (0.95%) today, though down 8.60% in the past month, but showing a 41.72% increase 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.

Afcons Infra Bags ₹1,283 Crore Marine Contract in Gujarat

Afcons Infrastructure Ltd has secured a ₹1,283 crore contract from Hindustan Gateway Container Terminal Kandla Private Ltd, a DP World group entity. The company announced on January 29 that it had received the letter of award (LOA) for the project, which involves the design and construction of a marine package at Tuna Tekra in Gujarat.

Project Details

The contract will be executed under the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) model. The work includes marine infrastructure development for the container terminal, with a completion deadline of 29 months. The project is part of ongoing developments in Gujarat’s port sector, aimed at expanding cargo-handling capacity.

Other Recent Contracts

Earlier this month, Afcons Infrastructure was declared the lowest bidder (L1) for two packages of the Pune Ring Road (East) project. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Ltd. (MSRDC) awarded the company the PRR E5 and E7 packages, valued at ₹4,787.20 crore. This project also follows the EPC model and has a completion timeline of 36 months. 

So, this contract win adds to the company’s ongoing portfolio of infrastructure projects across India, particularly in transport and marine development.

Financial Performance

Afcons Infrastructure reported a net profit of ₹135 crore in the second quarter of the current fiscal, marking a 30% increase from ₹104 crore in the same period last year. The company’s total income stood at ₹3,090 crore for the July-September quarter, compared to ₹3,434 crore in the previous year’s quarter.

Shares of Afcons Infrastructure Limited were trading at ₹458.70 as of 12:20 PM today,  January 30, up 0.23% for the day but down 11.92% over the past month and 3.21% 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.

NFO Alert: HDFC Mutual Fund Introduces HDFC Nifty100 Quality 30 Index Fund

HDFC Asset Management Company (HDFC AMC) has launched the HDFC Nifty100 Quality 30 Index Fund, a passive mutual fund that tracks the Nifty100 Quality 30 Total Returns Index (TRI). 

The New Fund Offer (NFO) opens on January 31, 2025, and closes on February 14, 2025. Investors can enter with a minimum investment of ₹100. There are no entry or exit loads, and unit allotments will be subject to stamp duty and transaction charges.

How the Fund Works?

The fund is designed to invest in stocks based on quality factors, specifically return on equity (ROE), financial leverage (Debt/Equity Ratio), and earnings growth variability. The Nifty100 Quality 30 Index picks 30 companies from the Nifty 100 using these metrics. Companies with strong balance sheets and stable earnings make up the portfolio. 

The selection process is rules-based and reviewed semi-annually (June and December).

Historical Performance

From its inception on October 1, 2009, to December 31, 2024, the Nifty100 Quality 30 TRI delivered a CAGR of 13.6%, compared to 12.4% CAGR for the Nifty 100 TRI. During market downturns, this index has historically fallen less than broader indices. However, past performance does not indicate future returns.

Fund Management and Structure

The fund will be managed by Nirman Morakhia and Arun Agarwal. It follows a passive investment strategy, meaning it will replicate the Nifty100 Quality 30 Index without active stock selection. The asset allocation will be 95-100% in index securities and up to 5% in debt instruments or money market securities for liquidity.

Key Considerations

This fund is structured for investors looking for low-cost exposure to companies with strong financials. It operates as an index fund, meaning it does not involve active stock picking. Investors should consider risk factors, market fluctuations, and their investment goals before subscribing.

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.

NFO Alert: Kotak Mutual Fund Launches CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026 Fund

Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund has introduced a New Fund Offer (NFO) under the debt target maturity category, the Kotak CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026 Fund (Regular-Growth). 

This open-ended target maturity index fund is to track the performance of AAA-rated financial services sector bonds that mature around December 2026. It offers a structured investment option with defined maturity, making it a considerable choice for investors looking for stable returns over a specific timeframe.

Key Investment Details

Metrics Details
NFO Opening Date 31st January 2025
NFO Closing Date 10th February 2025
Minimum Investment Amount ₹100 (for both SIP and lump sum)
NAV at Launch ₹10 per unit
Fund Manager Abhishek Bisen

This target maturity fund follows a debt-based investment approach with a moderate risk profile. It falls under the income fund sub-category and operates as an open-ended scheme, allowing investors to enter or exit at any point. The fund’s exit load is NIL and NAV is calculated daily.

Investment Objective

The fund aims to deliver returns in line with the CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026. This index is to track the performance of AAA-rated issuers within the financial services sector, all maturing near the fund’s target date. The objective is to minimize reinvestment risk while offering stability through high-credit-quality instruments. However, there is no guarantee of achieving the desired returns, as market conditions and expenses may affect performance.

Since the portfolio consists only of AAA-rated bonds, the fund offers a lower credit risk alternative within the debt segment. Investors seeking a structured and predictable fixed-income investment may find this NFO an attractive addition to their portfolio. While offering stability, factors such as interest rate fluctuations may impact the returns, making it essential for investors to consider their risk tolerance before investing.

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.

NFO: Kotak Mutual Fund Launches CRISIL-IBX AAA Bond Financial Services Index – Dec 2026 Fund – Direct Plan

Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund has introduced a new target maturity debt index fund, the Kotak CRISIL-IBX AAA Bond Financial Services Index – Dec 2026 Fund (Direct Plan). This fund aims to provide returns in line with the CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026, which comprises AAA-rated bonds from the financial services sector.

Fund Details

The New Fund Offer (NFO) opens on January 31, 2025, and closes on February 10, 2025. The fund is an open-ended target maturity index fund, allowing investors to enter and exit at their convenience. The minimum initial investment amount is ₹100, with no limit on subsequent investments with Moderate risk.

This fund is managed by Abhishek Bisen and the benchmark index for this scheme is the CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026. The Registrar & Transfer Agent for this scheme is Computer Age Management Services Ltd. (CAMS).

Investment Strategy

The fund follows a passive investment strategy, meaning it does not actively trade bonds but instead replicates the CRISIL-IBX AAA Financial Services Index – Dec 2026. The focus is on AAA-rated debt instruments from the financial services sector that mature close to December 2026.

By adopting a buy-and-hold approach, the fund minimizes portfolio turnover, reducing transaction costs and ensuring stability. The open-ended nature allows investors flexibility in entering or exiting the scheme while still benefiting from the defined maturity period.

Why Consider This Fund?

For investors looking for a low-risk, predictable investment option, this fund provides a structured approach to fixed-income investing. Since all securities in the portfolio are AAA-rated, credit risk remains minimal, making it a considerable choice for conservative investors.

Additionally, there are no entry or exit loads, making sure that investors can participate in the fund without incurring additional costs. The maturity date in December 2026 provides a clear investment timeline, allowing investors to plan their financial goals accordingly.

Who Should Invest?

This fund is suitable for investors who prefer stability over speculation and want exposure to a high-quality debt portfolio with a fixed maturity. It could be for those planning short- to medium-term financial goals and seeking returns with minimal monitoring.

With its open-ended structure, low costs, and high-rated securities, this fund serves as a flexible fixed-income investment option for those prioritizing safety and predictability in their portfolios.

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.

NFO Alert: Edelweiss Mutual Fund Launches Consumption Fund

Edelweiss Asset Management Limited has launched the Edelweiss Consumption Fund, an open-ended equity scheme that focuses on investing in companies within consumption and allied sectors. The fund aims to generate long-term capital appreciation, though there is no guarantee of achieving this objective.

This New Fund Offer (NFO) is available in two plans consisting of Edelweiss Consumption Fund – Regular (G) and Edelweiss Consumption Fund – Direct (G)

NFO Timeline and Investment Requirements

 

              Metrics Details
Open Date January 31, 2025
Close Date February 14, 2025
Allotment Date March 3, 2025
Minimum Investment ₹100
Incremental Investment ₹100
NAV at Launch ₹10

Both Regular and Direct plans follow a growth-oriented approach and fall under the Equity – Diversified category.

Risk and Benchmark

The fund is classified as Very High Risk, as per SEBI’s riskometer, meaning it is subject to volatility and market fluctuations. It is benchmarked against the S&P BSE 500 India TR INR, which tracks 500 companies across multiple industries in the country.

Fund Manager and Investment Strategy

Managed by Dhruv Bhatia, the fund will primarily invest in equity and equity-related securities in the consumption sector. This includes businesses in FMCG, retail, automobiles, e-commerce, and discretionary spending industries. The strategy focuses on companies benefiting from rising incomes, trends and evolving consumer preferences.

Exit Load, Redemption & Other Details

  • Exit Load: 1% if units are redeemed or switched out within a specified timeframe.
  • Redemption/Repurchase: Available as per the scheme rules.
  • NAV Calculation: Daily
  • Fund House: Edelweiss Mutual Fund

Both Regular and Direct plans of the Edelweiss Consumption Fund provide exposure to India’s consumption sector. However, Direct plans generally have lower expense ratios compared to Regular plans, as they bypass distributor commissions.

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.

Gold and Silver Prices on January 30, 2025: Check Rates in Your City

On Thursday, January 30, 2025, gold prices were trading higher as of 1:49 PM. In the international market, spot gold rose by 0.63%, reaching $2,770.51 per ounce.

In India, gold prices have increased by ₹390 across major metro cities. In Mumbai, 24-carat gold is priced at ₹8,096 per gram and ₹80,960 per 10 grams, while 22-carat gold costs ₹7,421 per gram.

In Delhi, 22-carat gold is priced at ₹74,085 per 10 grams, while 24-carat gold is trading at ₹80,820 per 10 grams, an increase of ₹390.

Gold Prices Across Major Indian Cities (₹ per 10 grams)

Here is a detailed breakdown of gold prices as of January 30, 2025:

City 24 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹) 22 Carat Gold (per 10gm in ₹)
Chennai 81,200 74,433
Hyderabad 81,090 74,333
Delhi 80,820 74,085
Mumbai 80,960 74,213
Bangalore 81,030 74,278

 

Silver Prices in India on January 30, 2025

Spot silver prices have increased by 1.02%, reaching $31.03 per ounce as of 1:55 PM.

Silver Prices Across Major Indian Cities (₹ per KG)

City Silver Rate in ₹/KG 
Mumbai 92,900
Delhi 92,740
Kolkata 92,830
Chennai 93,170

Key Takeaways

  • Gold Prices: Both 22-carat and 24-carat gold have increased by ₹390 across major metro cities in India.
  • Silver Prices: Spot silver prices have increased by over 1% on January 30, 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.