Infosys Sets Up Seven Digital Learning Centres In Ukraine for Educational Support

Infosys and Street Child are working together to support children’s education in Ukraine, which has been severely disrupted by conflict. Their efforts include creating digital learning spaces and providing resources for students and teachers to continue learning effectively.

Infosys and Street Child Join Hands for Education in Ukraine

Infosys, a leader in digital services, has partnered with Street Child, an international children’s charity, to address the educational challenges faced by children in conflict-affected Ukraine. Together, they have established seven Digital Learning Centers (DLCs) and launched a Digital Transformation program to provide tailored online learning resources for students and teachers. This initiative is part of their effort to mitigate the disruption caused by the ongoing conflict, which has significantly affected Ukraine’s education system, leaving 1.9 million children dependent on remote learning.

Digital Learning Centers: A Safe Space for Education

The collaboration began in 2024 with plans to create and renovate five DLCs in Dnipropetrovsk, a region in Eastern Ukraine. However, by the end of the first year, seven centers were completed including one renovated by an all-female team due to limited male workforce availability. These centres provide secure spaces equipped with laptops, internet, projectors and accessibility features such as wheelchair ramps. Additionally, they include areas for mental health support to assist young learners in coping with the challenges of remote education during the conflict.

Positive Impact and Vision for the Future

In just three months since their launch in September 2024, the DLCs have supported over 1,000 children by providing high-quality educational materials and secure learning environments. This initiative aims to create a more resilient education system in Ukraine. Tom Dannatt, CEO of Street Child, emphasised the importance of digital education in crisis-affected areas, expressing pride in the early success of the collaboration which demonstrates its potential to benefit other regions in need.

About Infosys and Street Child

Infosys is a global company that focuses on digital services and consulting with a strong dedication to making a positive impact on society. Street Child, founded in 2008, is a rapidly growing charity that works to ensure children are safe, attending school and learning. Together, they strive to support communities by improving education even in difficult situations. This partnership reflects their shared commitment to creating solutions that improve lives in areas affected by crises.

Infosys Share Performance 

As of January 28, 2025, 11:00 AM, the shares of Infosys are trading at ₹1,843.15 per share with a surge of 1.16% from its previous day’s closing price. Over the last month, the stock has declined by 3.30%. The stock has a 52-week high and 52-week low of ₹2,006.45 per share and ₹1358.35 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.

Axis CRISIL-IBX AAA Bond NBFC-HFC – Jun 2028 Index Fund Files Draft With SEBI

Axis CRISIL-IBX AAA Bond NBFC-HFC – Jun 2028 Index Fund is a target maturity index fund that invests in quality debt securities. The fund tracks the CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC-HFC Index – Jun 2028, focusing on bonds issued by non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and housing finance companies (HFCs) rated AAA.

Investment Objective

The scheme aims to generate returns that closely match the CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC-HFC Index before accounting for fees and expenses. It follows a passive investment strategy and holds bonds until maturity unless rebalancing or redemptions require changes.

Asset Allocation

The fund allocates 95-100% of its assets to securities from the CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC-HFC Index. The remaining 0-5% is kept in debt and money market instruments for liquidity purposes. No investments are made in derivatives, credit-enhanced instruments, or securities with structured obligations.

Risk and Returns

The fund comes with relatively high interest rate risk but low credit risk. As it primarily invests in AAA-rated bonds, the credit risk is minimal. However, returns may vary slightly due to tracking errors or differences between the index and the fund’s holdings.

Expense Ratio and Costs

The total expense ratio is capped at 1% of the fund’s daily net assets, with a lower cost for the Direct Plan as it excludes distributor commissions. There is no entry or exit load, and the units are priced at ₹10 during the New Fund Offer (NFO) phase.

Liquidity and Redemption

Units can be redeemed or subscribed to at NAV-based prices on business days. Redemption proceeds are dispatched within three working days under normal circumstances.

This fund is suited for investors with a medium to long-term horizon who are looking for predictable returns and can accept interest rate risk. The scheme also provides options for systematic investments and withdrawals, offering flexibility.

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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.

Axis CRISIL IBX AAA Bond NBFC – Jun 2028 Index Fund Filed Draft Papers

The Axis CRISIL-IBX AAA Bond NBFC – Jun 2028 Index Fund is an open-ended target maturity index fund. It invests in AAA-rated bonds issued by non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and aims to track the CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC Index – Jun 2028. The fund has a defined maturity of June 30, 2028.

Investment Objective

The fund’s objective is to deliver returns aligned with the performance of its benchmark index. It follows a passive investment approach, mirroring the index’s constituents while maintaining tracking error within permissible limits.

Asset Allocation

The portfolio primarily consists of 95-100% fixed-income instruments corresponding to the CRISIL-IBX AAA NBFC Index. Up to 5% of assets may be allocated to money market instruments for liquidity purposes. Repo and reverse repo transactions in corporate debt are also allowed, capped at 5% of net assets.

Features

  • Expense Ratio: Capped at 1% of daily net assets.
  • Minimum Investment: Investors can begin with ₹5,000 during the New Fund Offer (NFO) and subsequent investments start from ₹1,000.
  • Liquidity: Units can be redeemed on any business day, with redemption proceeds processed within three working days.
  • No Entry/Exit Loads: Investors are not charged any additional fees for purchasing or redeeming units.

Risk Factors

The scheme is subject to interest rate risk, where bond prices may fluctuate with changes in interest rates. However, credit risk is low as it invests in AAA-rated instruments. 

Suitability

This fund is ideal for those looking for predictable returns and low credit risk over the medium term. It provides an opportunity to invest in quality NBFC bonds with a fixed maturity timeline, making it suitable for conservative investors.

The fund’s Net Asset Value (NAV) is updated daily and disclosed by 11 PM on the Axis Mutual Fund website and AMFI portal.

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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.

Axis MF Files Draft For Axis Nifty AAA Bond Financial Services – Mar 2028 Index Fund

The Axis Nifty AAA Bond Financial Services – Mar 2028 Index Fund is an open-ended target maturity index fund. It passively tracks the Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index, aiming to replicate its performance before fees and expenses. 

The fund is for investors with moderate interest rate risk tolerance and low credit risk preferences. Its maturity date aligns with the index’s target of March 31, 2028.

Asset Allocation

The fund invests 95%-100% of its portfolio in AAA-rated financial services bonds included in the index. A maximum of 5% of assets can be allocated to money market instruments to manage liquidity needs. These allocations will help align with the benchmark while maintaining liquidity for redemption requests.

Investment Plans and Minimum Contributions

The fund offers two plans: Direct and Regular. Both plans come with Growth and Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal (IDCW) options.

  • Minimum investment during the NFO: ₹5,000.
  • Additional investments: ₹1,000 and multiples of ₹1 thereafter.
  • Units are priced at ₹10 per unit during the New Fund Offer period.

The New Fund Offer (NFO) dates are yet to be announced 

Expense Ratio and Fees

The fund’s expense ratio is capped at 1%, as per SEBI regulations. Direct plans exclude distributor commissions, reducing costs for investors. Importantly, there is no entry or exit load, making the fund more accessible without additional charges.

Redemption and Liquidity

Investors can redeem units on any business day, with redemption proceeds typically disbursed within three working days. Units will automatically mature on March 31, 2028, and the proceeds will be credited within the same timeline.

Benchmark and Tracking

The fund’s benchmark is the Nifty AAA Financial Services Bond Mar 2028 Index. While it aims to track the index precisely, minor deviations (tracking error) may occur due to operational factors or market conditions.

Key risks include interest rate fluctuations and liquidity concerns. However, the inclusion of AAA-rated bonds minimizes credit risk.

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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.

Aditya Birla Sun Life Active Debt FOF: Major Changes Announced

Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund has announced modifications to its scheme, Aditya Birla Sun Life Active Debt Multi-Manager FOF, effective March 3, 2025. These changes include a name change, an updated investment strategy, a revised asset allocation, and adjustments to its benchmark and risk profile. Here’s everything you need to know:

Scheme Name and Investment Objective

The scheme will now be called Aditya Birla Sun Life Debt Plus Arbitrage FOF. Its revised investment objective introduces a dual focus on generating returns from both debt-oriented funds and the Aditya Birla Sun Life Arbitrage Fund. Previously, the scheme was exclusively invested in pure debt-oriented funds.

Revised Asset Allocation

The updated allocation strategy brings more flexibility to the portfolio. The fund will allocate 50-100% of its assets to debt-oriented mutual funds and up to 45% in arbitrage funds, diversifying its approach while catering to a wider range of investment opportunities.

Change in Benchmark

To reflect its revised investment strategy, the scheme’s benchmark will shift from the CRISIL Composite Bond Index to a hybrid benchmark:

  • CRISIL Composite Bond Index (60%)
  • NIFTY 50 Arbitrage Index TRI (40%).

This adjustment aligns the benchmark with the inclusion of arbitrage funds in the portfolio.

Risk-O-Meter Adjustment

The scheme’s risk-o-meter has been updated, moving from a “moderate” risk level to “low to high”, showcasing the varying risk levels associated with the inclusion of arbitrage funds.

Exit Window for Investors

A 30-day exit window has been provided to investors, running from January 30, 2025, to February 28, 2025. During this period, investors can redeem or switch their investments without incurring an exit load. No action is required for those who accept the changes.

These updates aim to help boost the scheme’s appeal by offering diversification and flexibility in its investment strategy, aligning with evolving market conditions and investor preferences.

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.

Tata Power Solar Subsidiary Secures ₹455 Crore Solar Module Order

TP Solar Ltd, a subsidiary of Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd (TPREL), has been awarded a ₹455 crore contract by Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Ltd (MSPGCL). The contract involves the supply of 300 MWp ALMM-certified solar modules under the Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana (MSKVY) 2.0 project. These modules are expected to be delivered across various locations in Maharashtra by the end of this year.

Tata Power Company Ltd shares are trading at ₹349.35, down by 0.72% today (28 Jan, 12:54 PM), with a 21.01% decline over the past six months and 8.44% over the past year.

Part of a Larger Tender

This order is a part of MSPGCL’s larger 750 MWp solar tender, which was finalized through a competitive e-reverse auction (eRA) process. The modules supplied by TP Solar will contribute to Maharashtra’s renewable energy, particularly in supporting agricultural power needs under the MSKVY 2.0 scheme.

Largest Solar Cell Facility

TP Solar operates India’s largest single-location solar cell and module manufacturing plant in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. The plant has a production capacity of 4.3 gigawatts (GW) each for solar cells and modules.

 It has been designed to accommodate future expansion and a push toward increasing domestic solar manufacturing capacity.

Technological Features 

The facility uses advanced technologies like TOPCon and Mono PERC for manufacturing. It produces ALMM-certified modules, as well as domestically produced DCR modules, with India-made solar cells. This will help strengthen the solar value chain within the country.

Investment in Renewable Energy

Tata Power has invested ₹4,300 crore in the Tirunelveli facility. This is in an effort to reduce dependency on imported solar components and encourage indigenisation in the renewable energy sector.

The modules under the current contract are expected to be deployed within 2025. This project shows the role of large-scale tenders in boosting solar energy adoption in India, particularly through state-led renewable energy initiatives.

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

Delhivery Secures HPCL’s Lubricant Distribution Nationwide Order

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) has partnered with Delhivery to manage the distribution of its branded lubricants, HP Lubricants, across India. The deal involves the movement of millions of lubricant stock-keeping units (SKUs) using Delhivery’s logistics network.

The collaboration will rely on Delhivery’s Part Truck Load (PTL) logistics network and its centralized tracking systems. These tools are expected to simplify supply chain management, enabling HPCL to streamline deliveries and monitor things effectively.

Statements from the Companies

Ch Srinivas, Executive Director of HPCL’s Lubes segment, described the partnership as an opportunity to integrate HPCL’s existing systems with Delhivery’s logistics capacity. “This collaboration ensures a smooth, end-to-end distribution system while maintaining efficiency and product quality,” he said.

Suraj Saharan, co-founder of Delhivery, talked about the scale of operations and the company’s readiness to manage them. He stated that the deal highlights Delhivery’s ability to deliver solutions for large-scale logistics operations.

HPCL’s and Delhivery’s Reach

HPCL, a Maharatna public sector company, operates a vast network of over 23,000 retail outlets and 6,400 LPG distributors. It serves millions of customers and manages two refineries in addition to a lube refinery.

Delhivery, known for its extensive reach, operates across more than 18,700 pin codes in India. Since its inception, it has handled over 3.2 billion shipments and serves over 38,000 clients, ranging from startups to established enterprises.

Market Reaction

As of 3:30 PM today, on January 27, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd shares closed at ₹345.65, down by 2.04% for the day, showing a 9.29% decline over the past six months but a 14.63% increase over the past year, whereas Delhivery’s stock ended at ₹315.60, down by 1.91% today, showing a 23.47% drop in the last six months and a 26.24% decline 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.

Understanding the Nifty Financial Services Index: Performance and Valuation Trends

The Nifty Financial Services Index (FINNIFTY) is designed to track the performance and behaviour of India’s financial market. It includes banks, financial institutions, housing finance firms, insurance companies, and other financial services providers. The index comprises 20 stocks listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), representing the broader financial sector.

Recent Performance of FINNIFTY

On January 27, 2025, the Nifty Financial Services Index ended lower by 0.58%. Out of the 20 constituent stocks, 18 closed in the red, with only ICICI Bank and SBI managing to end in positive territory.

January 2025 has been particularly challenging for FINNIFTY, which recorded a sharp decline of 4.80%—its steepest fall in January since 2016. This marks the 3rd time since 2021 that the index has dropped over 4% in January. Historical declines include:

  • January 2021: 4.04%
  • January 2023: 4.67%
  • January 2024: 4.61%

Valuation Trends in FINNIFTY

The Price-to-Book Value (P/BV) Ratio is a key metric used to evaluate financial stocks. As of January 24, 2025, the P/BV ratio for the Nifty Financial Services Index stood at 2.72, which is:

  • Near the lower end of its 1, 3, and 6-month ranges.
  • Close to the 1- and 2-year range lows.
  • Below the 5-year average of 3.54.

Key Takeaways

  • Broad Market Reflection: The Nifty Financial Services Index provides insights into the overall performance of India’s financial sector.
  • Steep Declines in January 2025: A 4.80% fall reflects a challenging start to the year, mirroring previous sharp January declines in 2021, 2023, and 2024.

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.

Nifty Smallcap Index Sees Worst January Fall; Down Over 13%

The Nifty Smallcap 100 Index is a key benchmark representing the performance of the small-cap segment of the Indian financial market. Comprising 100 actively traded stocks listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE), it provides insights into the health and trends of this market segment.

A Sharp Fall in the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index

On January 27, 2025, the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index fell sharply by 4%, reaching its lowest point in seven months. The bearish market sentiment was evident, with 90 stocks declining while only 10 stocks managed to eke out gains. This broad sell-off underscored the challenging environment for small-cap investors.

A January to Remember

January 2025 has been particularly harsh for the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index:

  • The index has declined by 13.3% in January, marking its steepest fall in the month since 2012.
  • This represents an 18% correction from the highs seen in December 2024.
  • The last double-digit January correction occurred in 2016 when the index fell by 11.02%.

Valuation Perspective of Smallcap Index

As of January 24, 2025, the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index’s Price-to-Earnings (PE) ratio stood at 31.2. Here’s how it compares:

  • Near-term averages: 1- and 3-month ranges align closely with the current PE.
  • 6-month average: Slightly higher at 32.83, indicating a recent moderation in valuations.
  • Longer-term averages: The current PE remains above the 1-, 2-, and 5-year averages of 30.57, 26.09, and 28.13, respectively.

Performance Comparison with Nifty50

After a strong performance in recent years, the Nifty Smallcap 100 Index has lagged behind the broader Nifty50 Index in 2025. This reversal indicates a shift in market dynamics, with large-cap stocks possibly gaining favour amidst market volatility.

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.

Nifty Bank Index Faces Pressure: 3rd Consecutive January in Red?

The Nifty Bank Index is a barometer of the Indian banking sector, comprising the most liquid and large-cap banking stocks. On Monday, January 27, 2025, the index opened below the critical psychological level of 48,000 and touched an intraday low of 47,844.15. Despite a partial recovery, the index remains under pressure, continuing a downward trend seen throughout the month.

Intraday Movements on January 27, 2025

By 2:42 PM, the Nifty Bank Index was trading 0.58% lower, reclaiming the 48,000 mark after earlier losses. However, the advance-decline ratio highlighted bearish sentiments, with 8 stocks in red and only 4 stocks posting gains. This reflects the broader challenges facing the banking sector.

Key Losers: Disappointing Earnings Impact Stock Performance

  • IDFC First Bank:
    IDFC First Bank emerged as the worst performer, plunging nearly 9% to hit a fresh 52-week low. The decline came on the back of disappointing Q3 results, with a more than 50% drop in standalone net profit. The bank also reported a decline in its net interest margin (NIM), attributed to a reduced microfinance business and increased wholesale banking composition.
  • AU Small Finance Bank:
    Shares of AU Small Finance Bank tumbled 6% after announcing quarterly results. The earnings report signalled challenges that further dampened investor confidence.

Top Gainer: ICICI Bank Shines Amidst Challenges

In contrast to its peers, ICICI Bank recorded a 1.44% gain as of 2:42 PM. The positive momentum followed its robust quarterly earnings, which showcased healthy loan growth and improved profitability. The bank’s resilience amidst broader sectoral weaknesses stands out.

A Month to Forget: January’s Grim Performance

As of January 27, 2025, the Nifty Bank Index had fallen 5.64% for the month, marking its worst January performance since 2017. For context, the index saw a 5.42% drop in January 2023, and if it closes in red this month, it will be the 3rd consecutive January to witness negative returns. This trend underscores the sector’s vulnerability to cyclical pressures and market sentiment at the start of the 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.