Hindustan Unilever Limited acquired a 90.5% stake in Uprising Science Private Limited, the parent company of Minimalist for ₹2,670 crore. This strategic move aims to leverage HUL’s wide distribution network to make Minimalist products more easily available across India and help the brand grow in international markets.

Board approves the acquisition 

The company’s Board of Directors has approved the purchase of a majority stake in Uprising Science Private Limited. As part of this decision, a Share Purchase and Subscription Agreement (SPSA) has been signed to acquire 90.5% ownership for ₹2,670 crores. This is based on an enterprise valuation of ₹2,955 crores with some adjustments to be made as per the agreement.  

Additional Investment in Uprising

Along with the acquisition, the company will make an additional investment of ₹45 crores in Uprising Science Private Limited. This move aims to strengthen the company’s position in the market and drive future growth. The remaining 9.5% shares will be acquired later under the terms of the agreement.  

About USPL

Uprising Science Private Limited (USPL) is the parent company of Minimalist, an evidence-based, consumer-focused skin and hair care brand that emphasises high-quality, science-backed solutions prioritising efficacy and transparency

About HUL 

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has been through the merger of three companies and is India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company. It offers a wide range of products like soaps, detergents, shampoos, skincare, toothpaste and packaged foods with popular brands like Lux, Lifebuoy, Surf Excel and Lakme. Committed to sustainable living, HUL focuses on empowering youth, improving sanitation and promoting diversity & inclusion which reaffirms it as a top employer in India.

HUL’s Share Performance 

As of January 23, 2025, at 12:25 PM, HUL’s shares are trading at ₹2,326.55 per share, down 0.70% from yesterday’s closing price. Over the last month, the stock has fallen by 0.53% and over the past year, it has seen a splurge of 0.19%. The stock has a 52-week high and 52-week low of ₹3,035 per share and ₹2,172 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.

Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL) has announced plans to list its demerged ice cream business as a separate entity within a year. The move is aimed at unlocking value for shareholders and enhancing operational focus for the ice cream segment.

Details of the Demerger Plan

On Wednesday, HUL’s board approved the demerger of its ice cream business, which includes well-known brands such as Kwality Wall’s, Cornetto, and Magnum. Shareholders of HUL will receive one share in the newly formed company, tentatively named KWIL, in proportion to their current holdings.

The company expects to complete the required regulatory and shareholder approvals, with the demerged entity proposed to be listed on the National Stock Exchange and the Bombay Stock Exchange by the March quarter of fiscal 2026. HUL’s ice cream business accounted for ₹1,595 crore in turnover at the end of FY24, representing 2.7% of its total standalone turnover.

A Focused Growth Strategy

The demerger decision aligns with parent company Unilever’s strategic directive to separate its ice cream division. HUL constituted an independent committee in September to evaluate the prospects of this business, following which the board approved the separation in October.

HUL stated that the move would allow KWIL to focus exclusively on its ice cream operations, enabling greater flexibility to implement strategies tailored to market dynamics. With its demerger, HUL aims to provide the new entity with the tools to realise its full potential as a standalone company.

HUL Share Performance

As of January 23, 2025, at 12:55 PM, With a market capitalisation of ₹5,50,497 crores, HUL shares are trading at ₹2,331.35 per share, down 0.51% from yesterday’s closing price. Over the last month, the stock has declined by 0.2% and over the past year, it has dropped by 4.84%

Conclusion

HUL’s decision to demerge its ice cream business reflects a strategic step towards optimising growth opportunities for both HUL and KWIL. The transition to a listed entity is set to be completed by fiscal 2026, marking a significant shift in HUL’s operational focus.

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.

Sanofi India Limited has been issued a transfer pricing order by the Office of the Joint Commissioner of Income Tax, Transfer Pricing, for the assessment year 2022-23. The order, dated January 21, 2025, imposes a tax liability of ₹26.50 crore.

Transfer Pricing Adjustments

The tax liability was triggered by adjustments related to disallowed international transactions flagged during the transfer pricing assessment. These transactions were reviewed and disallowed by the assessing authority, leading to the demand for additional taxes.

Regulatory Filing

On January 22, 2025, Sanofi India informed stock exchanges through a regulatory filing under Regulation 30 of the SEBI (LODR) Regulations. The filing included details of the tax order, the quantum of claims, and the company’s response. Sanofi stated that it is awaiting the completion of draft assessment proceedings and plans to appeal the order before higher tax authorities.

No Impact on Operations

Despite the tax adjustment, the company clarified in its disclosure that the order does not have any material impact on its financial, operational, or other activities. Operations remain unaffected, according to Sanofi India’s statement.

Appeal Process to Follow

Once the draft assessment proceedings are finalized, Sanofi India intends to apply with higher tax authorities to challenge the order. The company has not provided a timeline for the appeal but has indicated its intent to contest the adjustments.

Share Price 

As of 11:27 AM today, on January 23, shares of Sanofi India Ltd were trading at ₹5,346.55, down ₹48.35 (0.90%) for the day, marking a 12.17% decline year-to-date and a 35.78% drop over the past year.

Sanofi India has stated that further updates on the matter will be provided after the draft assessment proceedings are finalized. The case showcases an issue in the pharmaceutical industry around transfer pricing regulations and international transactions in the country, an area that has seen increased regulatory oversight in recent years. 

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

Laurus Generics Inc. (LGI), the wholly-owned US subsidiary of Laurus Labs Ltd., recently underwent a Post-Marketing Adverse Drug Experience (PADE) inspection by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA). The inspection, conducted over 4days between January 13 and January 21, 2025, focused on the company’s processes for reporting adverse events related to its marketed pharmaceutical products worldwide.

Issuance of Form 483

Following the inspection, the US FDA issued a Form 483 to Laurus Generics Inc., citing one observation. The Form 483 is a document that talks about specific issues identified during inspections but does not represent a final determination of the company’s compliance with regulations. Laurus Labs stated that it would address the observation within the prescribed timelines.

Details from Regulatory Filing

In a regulatory filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), Laurus Labs disclosed the inspection outcome. The filing clarified that the company is taking the necessary steps to address the observation and ensure compliance with US FDA guidelines.

What is a Form 483?

A Form 483 is issued by FDA inspectors when they observe practices or conditions that may violate regulatory requirements during an inspection. It serves as a preliminary finding, and companies are expected to respond within 15 days with details on corrective actions they will take to address the concerns raised.

Additional Observations 

Such inspections are part of routine regulatory processes as a part of compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The outcome of this process will determine whether additional regulatory actions are required.

Stock Performance

On January 22, 2025, the day of the announcement, the stock closed at ₹571.45, showing a drop of ₹5.45 or 0.94%. However, Laurus Labs Ltd is currently trading at ₹577.50, up ₹6.65 (1.16%) as of 11:38 AM today, on January 23, 2025, indicating a 34.16% increase over the past six months and a 44.75% rise 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

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL) announced that its board has approved a $121 million development plan for the Nunukan Block in Indonesia. The project will be executed through Bharat PetroResources Limited (BPRL), BPCL’s wholly-owned subsidiary, and its step-down subsidiary, BPRL Ventures Indonesia BV.

Details of the Nunukan Block Project

The Nunukan Block, located in Indonesia, holds oil and gas reserves. BPRL Ventures Indonesia BV has a 16.23% participating interest in the block, while Pertamina Hulu Energi Nunukan Inc., a subsidiary of Pertamina, is the operator. The development plan is subject to approval from the Indonesian regulator, and the investment will only proceed after meeting specified conditions.

The development plan for the Nunukan Block has been submitted to the Indonesian regulator. Once approved and conditions are met, BPCL will move forward with the project.

Joint Venture for CBG Plants

In addition to its international ventures, BPCL’s board approved a joint venture with Praj Industries Ltd. to set up compressed bio-gas (CBG) plants across India. This is part of the company’s diversification. The plan is subject to regulatory clearances and board approval from Praj Industries.

BPCL’s Financial Performance

BPCL reported its financial performance for the October-December quarter. Net profit rose 94% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) to ₹4,649 crore, up from ₹2,397 crore in the previous quarter. Revenue increased by 10% QoQ to ₹1.13 lakh crore from ₹1.03 lakh crore. The company’s EBITDA for the quarter stood at ₹7,581 crore, marking a 67% increase from ₹4,546 crore in the September quarter. The EBITDA margin went to 6.7% from 4.4% in the preceding quarter.

Share Price 

As of 11:17 AM today, on January 23, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd’s share price stands at ₹273.55, down 1.46% for the day, showing a 10.60% decline over the past six months but an 18.15% gain 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.

LTIMindtree has renewed its partnership with the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), a nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. The focus of the extended collaboration is to boost the AAMC’s technology systems, improve how applications are developed and maintained, and streamline processes.

Focus Areas of the Partnership

The partnership is focused on helping the AAMC modernise its technology infrastructure. Some of the major goals include reducing project delivery timelines, increasing operational efficiency, and embedding security practices throughout development and other processes. These changes are expected to make the AAMC’s systems more reliable.

Planned Outcomes

LTIMindtree’s role in the partnership includes supporting the AAMC’s ongoing efforts to improve decision-making and overall productivity. By updating systems and optimising workflows, the partnership aims to ensure smoother operations and quicker delivery of projects.

Overview of the AAMC

Founded in 1876, the AAMC represents 159 U.S. medical schools, 14 Canadian medical schools, nearly 500 teaching hospitals and health systems, and multiple academic societies. Its network includes faculty members, medical students, resident physicians, graduate students and researchers in biomedical sciences. The organization works to upgrade medical education, healthcare, and research.

About LTIMindtree

LTIMindtree is a technology consulting company that provides digital solutions for businesses across industries. Part of the Larsen & Toubro Group, it operates in over 40 countries with a workforce of professionals. The company focuses on addressing business challenges through technology-driven solutions.

As of 12:07 PM today, on January 23, LTIMindtree Ltd shares are trading at ₹6,049.45, up 3.41% from the previous close. Over the past six months, the stock has risen by 6.35%, with a yearly growth of 7.30% and an all-time increase of 37.45%.

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.

The US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) to Zydus Lifesciences’ Usnoflast, an oral NLRP3 inhibitor, for treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is a rare neurodegenerative condition that affects motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord.

Clinical Trials and Plans

Zydus conducted a Phase 2(a) randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial for Usnoflast with 24 ALS patients across seven sites in India. The results of this study are expected to be presented at a medical conference and published in a journal. Following this, the US FDA has approved the initiation of a Phase 2(b) clinical trial for ALS patients.

Incentives with Orphan Drug Designation

Drugs receiving the ODD status benefit from several development incentives, such as tax credits for clinical testing, exemptions from certain user fees, and eligibility for 7 years of marketing exclusivity once approved by the USFDA.

About Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

ALS is a progressive and fatal disease that leads to muscle weakness, loss of voluntary movement, and eventual paralysis. Patients often lose their lives due to respiratory failure within two to five years of diagnosis. 

Usnoflast’s Broader Applications

Usnoflast has also been studied for other medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and multiple sclerosis (MS). Previously, the USFDA granted the drug ODD for treating Cryopyrin Associated Periodic Syndrome (CAPS), an autoinflammatory disease.

About Zydus Life Sciences 

Zydus Lifesciences is a pharmaceutical company based in Ahmedabad, India. It focuses on developing treatments for unmet medical needs, including rare diseases. The company employs over 27,000 individuals globally and is involved in producing healthcare therapies.

Shares of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, as of 11:46 AM, January 23, are trading at ₹987.25, up by 0.89% today, though it has declined by 14.07% over the past 6 months while gaining 35.40% 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

Shiva Cement Ltd, a subsidiary of JSW Cement Ltd, has entered into a ₹380 crore agreement with Bhushan Power and Steel Ltd (BPSL) for the development of a 1 million tonne per annum (MTPA) cement grinding unit in Sambalpur, Odisha. The agreement was executed on January 22, 2025.

Agreement Details

As per the terms, BPSL will construct, install, and operate the grinding unit on its premises. Once operational and after obtaining regulatory approvals, the unit will be transferred to Shiva Cement along with related assets. The total cost of the transaction, including amounts already paid, is capped at ₹380 crore.

Payments will be made in phases, and Shiva Cement will cover all costs associated with the unit’s development and operations until the transfer is completed.

Background and Approvals

The agreement follows earlier resolutions by Shiva Cement’s board and shareholders in 2024. Shareholders approved the project on September 19, 2024, and a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the two parties on October 4, 2024. This was later amended on December 11, 2024.

Related-Party Transaction

The transaction is classified as a related-party deal since BPSL is linked to Shiva Cement’s promoter group. However, it is being conducted on an arm’s length basis to make sure of compliance with regulatory requirements.

Transfer Process

BPSL will be responsible for constructing and commissioning the grinding unit as per the agreement. Once operational, the unit will be sold and transferred to Shiva Cement, free of any constraints. Shiva Cement will also retain the right to inspect the progress and operations of the unit during the construction phase.

Market Reaction

On the day of the announcement, shares of Shiva Cement closed at ₹39.32, down by ₹0.20 or 0.51%. Today, the stock is trading at ₹39.20 as of 11:06 AM, showing a 0.31% drop, with a six-month decline of 16.68% and a year-to-date fall of 25.48%.

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