Banking Stocks Are Back: Here’s Why 2025 Could Be a Breakout Year

After a lukewarm run in 2024, banking stocks are making a strong comeback in 2025 — and investors are starting to take notice.

Last year, while the Nifty Index posted a solid gain of 8.8%, the Bank Nifty underperformed with a 5.5% increase. But fast forward to 2025, and the trend has reversed. The Nifty is up just 2.7% so far, while the Bank Nifty has surged ahead with an impressive 8.6% gain. What’s driving this turnaround?

A Tough Year Behind

In 2024, the Indian banking sector faced a flurry of challenges. Savers were moving away from fixed deposits in favour of mutual funds, raising concerns about banks’ ability to attract deposits. Rising competition for deposit mobilisation threatened to squeeze margins. Add to that tight liquidity conditions and the rapid expansion of unsecured loans — and the pressure on profitability was clear.

Investor confidence in banking stocks took a hit, as the sector seemed to be navigating choppy waters with no clear catalyst for growth.

But 2025 Tells a Different Story

This year, sentiment has shifted. A series of regulatory and policy moves by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has infused new life into the sector:

  • CRR Cut: A reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio has unlocked liquidity, easing funding pressures across the system. 
  • Lower Risk Weights for NBFC Loans: This incentivises banks to lend more to non-banking financial companies, creating a broader credit expansion cycle. 
  • Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) Reduction: Effective April 1, 2026, this move is expected to free up additional liquidity, potentially boosting banking credit by 1.5–2%.

Growth Is Back on the Table

The RBI’s policy transmission is working — interest rates have softened, loan rates have come down, and credit demand is beginning to pick up. That’s good news for banks and the economy alike.

Looking forward, the growth outlook appears solid. The IMF projects India’s nominal GDP to grow around 10% in 2025. If that holds, the banking sector could see growth in the range of 12–15%, depending on how efficiently individual banks are able to mobilize deposits and manage risk.

Co-Lending: A Hidden Catalyst

Another structural driver is the co-lending model, where banks and NBFCs share credit risk. This ensures credit reaches underserved segments while allowing institutions to underwrite risk based on their balance sheet strengths — a model that could expand the credit footprint without compromising asset quality.

Bottom Line: With liquidity improving, regulatory tailwinds in play, and the macro environment turning favourable, banking stocks could be poised for a breakout year. For investors looking at the sector afresh, 2025 may just offer the opportunity they were waiting for.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. http://bit.ly/3usSGoH

TATA IPL 2025: The Net Practice Approach- Virtual Trading Before Investing Real Money

In cricket, no team walks straight into a match without warming up. Even seasoned professionals need net practice to hone their timing, experiment with shots, and iron out flaws. It’s the safe space to fail, learn, recalibrate, and then step into the match with confidence.

In the world of investing and trading, paper trading plays the same role. It’s your net practice. A risk-free simulation where you can test strategies, observe market reactions, and build conviction, without putting your capital at stake.

Before you dive headfirst into the volatility of the market, it’s worth asking: have you had enough time in the nets?

The Value of Practice Without Pressure

In cricket nets, a batsman might try out new strokes, attempt switch hits, or even experiment with altered stances. None of this is done during the actual match—because the stakes are high. In net practice, failure is information, not a setback.

Similarly, paper trading allows investors and traders to:

  • Understand market mechanics
  • Test technical and fundamental strategies
  • Learn to manage emotions like greed and fear
  • Track hypothetical portfolios over time

You don’t risk real money, but you gain real insights. Whether you’re testing a swing trading setup or a long-term SIP strategy, paper trading helps you understand execution without the financial consequences.

SmartAPI: Your Personal Bowling Machine

Let’s say you’re past the basics and want to simulate not just a single delivery—but a variety of match conditions. That’s where AngelOne’s SmartAPI becomes your personal bowling machine—programmed with yorkers, bouncers, and seamers for every scenario.

Here’s how:

  • Market Feeds API delivers real-time price data, letting you simulate how your strategy performs in live conditions. Want to create a Telegram alert for high volume spikes or trade only when RSI dips below 30? This is your net for live drills.
  • Historical Data API is like revisiting footage of past games. You can backtest strategies across different market cycles, like bull runs, corrections, flat periods, to see how your system holds up over time. Did your plan survive the 2020 crash? What would it have done during 2021’s bull market?
  • And when you’re ready for live action, the Trading API gives you everything—execution, portfolio monitoring, even fund balance visibility—with machine-speed precision. But until then, treat it like your practice nets. Run hundreds of simulated trades per second, tweak parameters, and improve your shot selection.

Just like facing fast bowlers in the nets improves reflexes, interacting with SmartAPI helps build confidence in system-driven trading before you put real money on the line.

Read More: TATA IPL 2025: What Bowling Can Teach Us About Risk Management Strategies. 

Sharpen the Mind: Learn with Smart Money

No amount of net practice is useful unless you’re working on the right fundamentals. You need a coach who explains footwork, shot selection, and reading the field. In the financial arena, AngelOne’s Smart Money platform plays that coaching role.

Smart Money offers structured, bite-sized courses that walk you through:

  • Basics of stock markets
  • Technical and fundamental analysis
  • Behavioural finance
  • Advanced strategies in F&O and risk management

It’s like a video analysis session with a batting coach. Smart Money breaks down each aspect of your technique.

You can take a course on swing trading and simultaneously use historical data from SmartAPI to test the lessons in a simulated environment. This creates a feedback loop of learn → practice → refine → repeat.

Tuning Your Temperament

Cricketers know that match temperament can’t be taught—it must be experienced. Paper trading introduces you to your own investor psychology. You’ll see how your decision-making changes with notional losses or gains, and how often you second-guess yourself.

The goal isn’t just to build a working strategy, but to prepare your mind for execution. Here are a few drills you can do:

  • Set paper stop-losses and test your discipline: Do you follow through or move the stop every time it gets close?
  • Create hypothetical alerts using Market Feeds API: What’s your reaction time when the signal flashes?
  • Track hypothetical P&L over 3 months: Can you handle drawdowns without deviating from the plan?

These simulations build the same mental resilience a cricketer develops after spending hours in the nets under pressure situations.

Read More: Tata IPL 2025: DRS in Investing: The Importance of Research and Second Opinions in Finance.

From Net Practice to Match Day

Once you’ve put in the work, understood the market, tested your strategies, and trained your instincts, it’s time to step onto the pitch. But unlike cricket, where the leap from practice to match is steep, AngelOne’s ecosystem ensures a seamless transition.

Move from paper trading to live trades with the Trading API. Graduate from theoretical learning on Smart Money to market action using SmartAPI. You’ve built your muscle memory, and now it’s about executing under lights.

Final Word: Don’t Skip the Nets

Great players are made in the nets. They don’t become match-winners overnight, they iterate, experiment, and evolve through countless unseen hours of practice.

If you’re new to investing or building your first trading strategy, treat paper trading like net practice. Use SmartAPI to simulate real-world scenarios. Study on Smart Money to sharpen your concepts. Observe your tendencies. Learn the market’s rhythm.

Because when real money is on the line, you’ll want your shot selection to be second nature.

And that kind of confidence only comes from practice.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. http://bit.ly/usSGoH

e-Shram: 1 Million Gig Workers Registered, Ludhiana Labourers Get Ration Access; How to Register

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently announced a major milestone in the registration of gig workers on the e-Shram portal—a dedicated social security platform for unorganised sector workers. 

Nearly 1 million workers have been brought under its fold so far, with the government aiming to register an additional 3-4 million within the next 3 months. This move aligns with the government’s commitment, outlined in the Union Budget, to extend social welfare coverage to gig and platform workers.

Registration on e-Shram makes workers eligible for several central schemes. Key among them is access to healthcare under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), alongside pension and insurance benefits under PM-SYM(Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan), PMJJBY(Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana), PMSBY( Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana), and Atal Pension Yojana.

Heatwave Protection for Labourers Across India

In light of extreme summer temperatures, the Centre has also issued an advisory to all states and Union Territories, urging immediate implementation of protective measures for workers. These include:

  • Rescheduling work hours to avoid peak heat 
  • Providing access to drinking water 
  • Creating shaded rest areas 
  • Ensuring ventilation or cooling at workplaces 
  • Conducting regular health checks 
  • Distributing ice packs and heat illness prevention kits 

These steps are part of a broader initiative to ensure occupational safety and well-being amid rising climate-related risks.

Read More: Gig Economy: Financial Planning for Freelancers and Independent Contractors in FY 26.

Ludhiana Begins Including e-Shram Workers in Ration Scheme

In a parallel development, the district food supply department of Ludhiana has identified over 15,000 e-Shram cardholders for inclusion in the Public Distribution System (PDS). The initiative follows a Supreme Court order mandating the issuance of ration cards to e-Shram workers across India.

The process began after the department received official data from the e-Shram portal in May 2024. With the help of local ration depot holders, area-wise verification and e-KYC authentication using UAN and Aadhaar details were conducted to confirm eligibility.

Supreme Court Steps In to Safeguard Food Security

The drive was prompted by an October 2023 Supreme Court directive to ensure that approximately 8t crore unorganised workers registered under e-Shram are not excluded from food security schemes. This decision came in response to a petition filed by advocate Prashant Bhushan, who pointed out lapses in the implementation of an earlier court order dated April 20, 2023.

That order had called for the extension of National Food Security Act (NFSA) benefits to marginalised communities, especially migrant and unorganised workers. However, as of the petition’s filing, only 20.63 crore of the 28.6 crore registered e-Shram workers were linked to ration card databases, leaving a significant gap in welfare delivery.

e-Shram Card Registration: A Simple Guide to Apply Online

You can apply for an e-Shram card either online through the official e-Shram portal or by visiting a nearby CSC (Common Service Centre). To find the nearest CSC, simply go to the e-Shram website and enter your state and district.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to apply online:

Step 1:

Visit the e-Shram portal and go to the Self-Registration page.

Step 2:

Enter your mobile number linked with Aadhaar and the captcha shown. Then click on ‘Send OTP’.

Step 3:

Enter your Aadhaar number, accept the terms and conditions, and input the OTP sent to your phone. Click ‘Validate’.

Step 4:

Review your personal details displayed on the screen.

Step 5:

Fill in the required information such as your address and education details.

Step 6:

Choose your skill, type of work, and business nature.

Step 7:

Provide your bank account details and complete the self-declaration section.

Step 8:

Click ‘Preview’ to review your information, and then select ‘Submit’.

Step 9:

An OTP will be sent to your mobile. Enter it and click ‘Verify’.

Step 10:

Your e-Shram card will be generated and displayed on the screen.

You can also download the card directly from the portal for your records.

Conclusion

The recent updates reflect a concerted effort by both the judiciary and the executive to bridge welfare gaps in India’s informal workforce. With increasing digitisation and legal oversight, the e-Shram portal is gradually evolving into a central hub for unorganised sector inclusion in national welfare programmes.

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.

8वां वेतन आयोग का गठन: प्रमुख पदों और विभागों के लिए भर्ती शामिल

8वें केंद्रीय वेतन आयोग (सीपीसी) की स्थापना की प्रक्रिया आधिकारिक तौर पर शुरू हो गई है। वित्त मंत्रालय ने, अपने व्यय विभाग के माध्यम से, 17 अप्रैल, 2025 को एक परिपत्र जारी किया, जिसमें नए आयोग में 35 रिक्तियों की घोषणा की गई। ये पद प्रतिनियुक्ति के आधार पर भरे जाएंगे, जिसका अर्थ है कि अधिकारी अस्थायी रूप से सीपीसी के साथ काम करेंगे और आयोग के समाप्त होने के बाद अपनी मूल भूमिकाओं में लौट आएंगे। 

भर्ती प्रक्रिया और नियम 

परिपत्र में इस बात पर प्रकाश डाला गया है कि भर्ती कार्मिक और प्रशिक्षण विभाग (डीओपीटी) द्वारा निर्धारित दिशानिर्देशों का पालन करेगी। इसे “ओपन-एंडेड” परिपत्र के रूप में भी लेबल किया गया है, जिसका अर्थ है कि सभी पद भरे जाने तक आवेदन स्वीकार किए जाते रहेंगे। मंत्रालय ने इच्छुक विभागों से जल्द से जल्द सत्यापित आवेदन भेजने के लिए कहा है। 

शामिल प्रमुख पद और विभाग 

35 रिक्तियों में से सरकार ने प्रमुख पदों पर शीर्ष अधिकारियों की नियुक्ति शुरू कर दी है। इनमें शामिल हैं: 

  • 2 निदेशक/उप सचिव 
  • 3 अवर सचिव 

ये सभी पद आयोग की अवधि के लिए केंद्रीय सचिवालय सेवाओं से प्रतिनियुक्ति पर भरे जाने हैं। 

नियुक्तियों के लिए वेतन संरचना 

इन भूमिकाओं के लिए वेतन स्तर 7वें वेतन आयोग के वेतन मैट्रिक्स के अनुरूप होंगे: 

  • निदेशक: स्तर 13 
  • उप सचिव: स्तर 12 
  • अवर सचिव: स्तर 11 

पात्र उम्मीदवारों को अपने पांच साल के एपीएआर और सतर्कता मंजूरी जैसे प्रासंगिक दस्तावेजों के साथ अपने आवेदन जमा करने होंगे। 

निष्कर्ष 

आधिकारिक भर्ती अभियान से संकेत मिलता है कि 8वें वेतन आयोग की तैयारियां आगे बढ़ रही हैं। जैसे ही नियुक्तियां शुरू होती हैं, आयोग से उम्मीद की जाती है कि वह जल्द ही काम शुरू कर देगा जिससे केंद्र सरकार के कर्मचारियों के लिए नए वेतन संशोधन हो सकते हैं।

 

अस्वीकरण: यह ब्लॉग विशेष रूप से शैक्षिक उद्देश्यों के लिए लिखा गया है। उल्लिखित प्रतिभूतियां केवल उदाहरण हैं और सिफारिशें नहीं हैं। यह व्यक्तिगत सिफारिश/निवेश सलाह नहीं है। इसका उद्देश्य किसी व्यक्ति या संस्था को निवेश निर्णय लेने के लिए प्रभावित करना नहीं है। प्राप्तकर्ताओं को निवेश निर्णय के बारे में स्वतंत्र राय बनाने के लिए अपना शोध और आकलन करना चाहिए। 

प्रतिभूति बाजार में निवेश बाजार जोखिमों के अधीन हैं, निवेश करने से पहले सभी संबंधित दस्तावेजों को ध्यान से पढ़ें। 

वित्तीय वर्ष 2025 के लिए अपना ITR दाखिल कर रहे हैं? यहां अपेक्षित समय सीमा और रिफंड टाइमलाइन दी गई है

आयकर रिटर्न्न (आईटीआर) के लिए फाइलिंग विंडो वित्तीय वर्ष 2024-25 (आकलन वर्ष 2025-26) के लिए आधिकारिक इनकम टैक्स डिपार्टमेंट वेबसाइट पर जल्द ही खुलने की उम्मीद है। जबकि सेंट्रल बोर्ड ऑफ डायरेक्ट टैक्सेस (सीबीडीटी) ने अभी तक कोई आधिकारिक घोषणा नहीं की है, ऐतिहासिक रुझानों से पता चलता है कि ई-फाइलिंग आमतौर पर अप्रैल में शुरू होती है। 

इस अवधि के दौरान, विभिन्न आईटीआर फॉर्म अधिसूचित किए जाते हैं और विभिन्न आय श्रेणियों में करदाताओं के लिए उपलब्ध कराए जाते हैं। ये फॉर्म वेतनभोगी व्यक्तियों, स्व-नियोजित पेशेवरों, व्यवसाय मालिकों और अन्य – प्रत्येक विशिष्ट अनुपालन आवश्यकताओं के साथ – को पूरा करते हैं। 

वित्त वर्ष 2025 के लिए आईटीआर फाइल करने की डेडलाइन क्या है? 

वित्तीय वर्ष 2023-24 के लिए, बिना किसी विलंब शुल्क के इनकम टैक्स रिटर्न फाइल करने की अंतिम तिथि 31 जुलाई, 2024 थी। इसी तरह की डेडलाइन वित्तीय वर्ष 24-25 के लिए भी होने की संभावना है, जिसमें 31 जुलाई, 2025 को समय पर जमा करने के लिए प्रारंभिक कटऑफ होने की उम्मीद है। 

जो करदाता डेडलाइन चूक जाते हैं, वे 31 दिसंबर, 2025 तक विलंबित रिटर्न फाइल कर सकते हैं, हालांकि यह आमतौर पर विलंब शुल्क और ब्याज के अधीन होता है। सटीक तिथियों की पुष्टि उचित समय पर इनकम टैक्स डिपार्टमेंट द्वारा जारी आधिकारिक सर्कुलर के माध्यम से की जाएगी। 

आप अपना आई-टी रिफंड कब तक प्राप्त करने की उम्मीद कर सकते हैं? 

हाल के वर्षों में रिफंड प्रक्रिया को काफी सुव्यवस्थित किया गया है। अधिकांश करदाताओं के लिए, रिटर्न के सफल सत्यापन की तारीख से 7 से 20 दिनों के भीतर रिफंड संसाधित किए जाते हैं। हालांकि, रिफंड की गति कई कारकों पर निर्भर करती है, जिनमें शामिल हैं: 

  • जमा की गई जानकारी की सटीकता 
  • आधार ओटीपी या अन्य अधिकृत मोड का उपयोग करके आईटीआर का समय पर सत्यापन 
  • रिफंड प्राप्त करने के लिए चयनित बैंक खाते का पूर्व-सत्यापन और पैन लिंकिंग 

आय विवरण, टैक्स क्रेडिट या गलत बैंक विवरण में कोई भी विसंगति रिफंड प्रोसेसिंग में देरी का कारण बन सकती है। 

कौन से दस्तावेज़ तैयार रखने चाहिए? 

एक सुचारू फाइलिंग और रिफंड प्रक्रिया सुनिश्चित करने के लिए, करदाताओं को सलाह दी जाती है कि वे निम्नलिखित दस्तावेजों और जानकारी को पहले से तैयार रखें: 

  • पैन और आधार कार्ड 
  • नियोक्ताओं द्वारा जारी फॉर्म 16 
  • वेतन पर्ची और ब्याज प्रमाण पत्र 
  • पूंजीगत लाभ विवरण (यदि लागू हो) 
  • किराये की आय का विवरण और कोई अन्य आय प्रमाण 
  • रिफंड उद्देश्यों के लिए बैंक खाते का विवरण 

उचित दस्तावेजीकरण से सटीक आत्म-मूल्यांकन में मदद मिलती है और प्रसंस्करण में जांच या त्रुटियों का जोखिम कम हो जाता है। 

निष्कर्ष 

वित्त वर्ष 2025 के लिए इनकम टैक्स रिटर्न फाइल करने की विंडो जल्द ही खुलने की उम्मीद है, जिसकी अस्थायी डेडलाइन 31 जुलाई, 2025 है। यदि सभी विवरण सही ढंग से भरे और सत्यापित किए जाते हैं तो रिफंड आम तौर पर 20 दिनों के भीतर संसाधित किए जाते हैं। आवश्यक दस्तावेजों को पहले से तैयार रखने से पूरी प्रक्रिया अधिक कुशल और तनाव-मुक्त हो सकती है। 

 

 

अस्वीकरण: यह ब्लॉग विशेष रूप से शैक्षिक उद्देश्यों के लिए लिखा गया है। उल्लिखित प्रतिभूतियां केवल उदाहरण हैं और सिफारिशें नहीं हैं। यह व्यक्तिगत सिफारिश/निवेश सलाह नहीं है। इसका उद्देश्य किसी व्यक्ति या संस्था को निवेश निर्णय लेने के लिए प्रभावित करना नहीं है। प्राप्तकर्ताओं को निवेश निर्णय लेने से पहले अपना स्वयं का शोध और मूल्यांकन करना चाहिए। 

प्रतिभूति बाजार में निवेश बाजार जोखिमों के अधीन हैं, निवेश करने से पहले सभी संबंधित दस्तावेजों को ध्यान से पढ़ें। 

Devyani to Acquire Majority Stake in Sky Gate Hospitality for ₹419.6 Crore

In a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening its footprint in the Indian food market, Devyani International Limited (DIL), a major force in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry, has acquired an 80.72% stake in Sky Gate Hospitality Private Limited. 

 

This acquisition encompasses three popular brands: Biryani By Kilo, Goila Butter Chicken, and The Bhojan. The move signals DIL’s intent to diversify its brand portfolio and broaden its reach in the traditional Indian cuisine sector.

Expansion Through Acquisition

Sky Gate Hospitality, founded by Kaushik Roy and Vishal Jindal in 2015, has become a significant player in India’s food delivery landscape. Notably, Biryani By Kilo introduced the concept of delivering freshly prepared ‘handi biryani’ and has since expanded to over 100 outlets across 40+ cities. Goila Butter Chicken gained popularity for its distinctive smoky flavour, while The Bhojan caters to vegetarian food lovers.

 

By integrating these brands into its portfolio, DIL now manages ten food and beverage brands, including international names like Tealive and New York Fries. This acquisition supports DIL’s strategic vision of becoming a “House of Brands” and enhances its leadership in the organised Indian QSR segment.

DIL’s Strengthened Market Position

Devyani International already holds a strong market presence as the largest franchisee for Yum Brands in India, operating KFC and Pizza Hut outlets, and as the sole franchisee of Costa Coffee in the country. The addition of Sky Gate’s brands brings authentic Indian flavours into DIL’s fold, addressing the growing consumer demand for traditional cuisine.

 

Ravi Jaipuria, Non-Executive Chairman of DIL, expressed confidence in the acquisition, highlighting the importance of incorporating Indian favourites like biryani into their diverse offering. Meanwhile, the founders of Sky Gate conveyed optimism about future growth, emphasising the shared vision between the two companies.

Read More: Devyani International Share Rises 4% After Acquisition Plans For Biryani By Kilo.

Devyani International Share Performance 

As of April 25, 2025, 9:30 AM, Devyani International share price is trading at ₹175.39, reflecting a 2.10% decline from the previous closing price. Over the past month, the stock has surged by 18.25%.

Conclusion

The acquisition of Sky Gate Hospitality marks a significant development in DIL’s growth trajectory, reinforcing its commitment to providing diverse and culturally resonant food options to consumers.

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.

IRFC Emerges as L1 Bidder for ₹5,000 Crore Loan to NTPC

In a significant development, Indian Railway Finance Corporation Limited (IRFC), a Government of India enterprise, has emerged as the L1 (lowest) bidder for a ₹5,000 crore Rupee Term Loan (RTL) intended for NTPC. This bid, dated April 18, 2025, was part of NTPC’s ongoing efforts to raise capital for various developmental and strategic initiatives.

NTPC, in its communication dated April 24, 2025, confirmed acceptance of IRFC’s offer, marking a noteworthy milestone for the financing arm of Indian Railways.

The share price of IRFC was down by 3.22% as of 2:28 PM, and at the same time, NTPC share price was down by 1.32%. 

Funding to Support NTPC’s Expansion and Modernisation

The proposed loan will be instrumental in meeting the capital expenditure needs of NTPC. The funds are expected to be deployed across several avenues, including:

  • Ongoing and new capacity addition programmes

  • Takeover of projects

  • Renewable energy projects

  • Renovation and modernisation of existing infrastructure

  • Refinancing of existing loans

This diverse application of capital underscores NTPC’s broad focus on expansion, sustainability, and operational optimisation.

Read More: NTPC, NTPC Green Announces Mega Investment of ₹96,000 Crore for Major Energy Projects in Chhattisgarh. 

Conclusion

While IRFC has secured the L1 status, the transaction is still subject to final due diligence, necessary internal approvals, and the formalisation of detailed sanction terms with NTPC’s board. Once cleared, this deal will further consolidate IRFC’s role in supporting India’s infrastructure and energy financing ecosystem.

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.

China Halts Rare Earth Magnet Exports to India: Indian EV Makers Stare at Supply Chain Disruption

According to the CNBC-TV18 Report, China’s decision to halt the export of rare earth magnets to India, effective April 4, has stirred concerns across India’s burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) and automotive component industries. These magnets, which are critical for traction motors and several core parts in EVs, are essential for maintaining production levels and technological performance.

As per the latest report from CNBC-TV18, this export restriction is already prompting major automakers and parts suppliers in India to seek government intervention to manage the brewing crisis.

What Are Rare Earth Magnets and Why Are They Crucial?

Rare earth magnets, particularly neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets, are vital in EV manufacturing. They provide strong magnetic fields that are required for the high efficiency and performance of electric motors, including traction motors that drive EVs.

These magnets are also extensively used in:

  • Power steering systems

  • Windshield wiper motors

  • Electric braking systems

  • Sensors and control electronics

The dependency on Chinese exports for such advanced materials stems from China’s dominance in rare earth processing and magnet production, accounting for over 80% of the global supply.

The New Chinese Regulation: A Diplomatic Hurdle

Under the new policy, Chinese companies are allowed to export rare earth magnets to Indian buyers only if the importing party presents an end-user certificate. This document must:

  • Clearly outline the intended use of the magnets.

  • Be vetted and authorised by India’s Ministry of External Affairs,

  • Receive official approval from the Chinese Embassy in India.

Further, the certificate must assure that the materials will not be used in weapon manufacturing or diverted to any third party. This introduces bureaucratic and diplomatic layers that could delay or disrupt timely shipments.

Implications for the Indian EV and Auto Industry

The move could ripple through India’s EV ecosystem in multiple ways:

  • Production Delays: EV manufacturing may face downtime due to a lack of critical motor components.

  • R&D Slowdown: Innovative projects involving indigenous motor technologies may be paused or slowed.

  • Cost Pressures: With limited alternatives, prices of existing stockpiles could rise, squeezing margins.

Companies such as Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Olectra Greentech, which have aggressively expanded their EV portfolios, could experience short-term pressure. Auto component makers like Schaeffler India and Sona BLW Precision Forgings may also witness operational challenges.

Read More: India Mulls 10% Cap on Chinese Equity in Electronics JVs

A Wake-Up Call for Indigenous Development

While this move by China poses immediate challenges, it also serves as a reminder for India to boost its local production capabilities in rare earth elements and magnet technologies. The dependency on imported critical components underlines the need for policy support, investment in R&D, and development of an alternative supply chain, possibly in collaboration with allied nations.

Conclusion

China’s halt on rare earth magnet exports to India is more than a supply issue—it’s a strategic move that could reshape India’s EV ambitions in the short term. With the requirement of government-vetted documentation and increased scrutiny on usage, Indian automakers and component suppliers now face both logistical and geopolitical complexities.

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.

 

Flipkart Likely to Be a Historic IPO; IPO Likely in 2025, Aims for $70 Billion Valuation

Walmart-backed Flipkart is reportedly preparing for a massive initial public offering (IPO) in India as early as next year, targeting a valuation between $60 billion and $70 billion. If successful, the listing would become the largest ever by a consumer technology company in Indian stock market history.

The Bengaluru-headquartered e-commerce major is undertaking strategic steps to facilitate this listing, including relocating its holding company from Singapore to India—a move commonly referred to as “reverse flipping”.

Redomiciling to India: A Strategic Move

Flipkart’s board has already approved the decision to shift its holding company to India, and the redomiciling process is expected to be completed within the next 12 to 15 months. The move is intended to smooth the path for a domestic listing, aligning the company’s corporate structure with its operational reality—most of its assets, employees, and customer base are already rooted in India.

An executive close to the development highlighted that investors, including Walmart, will also transition to the Indian entity during this shift, further consolidating Flipkart’s base in its home market.

Read More: When Can Investors Expect Flipkart IPO?. 

Legal and Market Perspectives on the Relocation

According to a report, being domiciled in India may help Flipkart sidestep regulatory challenges that foreign-held entities typically face when listing on Indian bourses. It also creates a more transparent and locally governed corporate structure, which could be viewed positively by retail and institutional investors alike.

Aligning with SEBI’s Pro-India Tech Outlook

Flipkart’s relocation also comes at a time when India’s market regulator SEBI has shown an increasingly favourable stance towards homegrown tech companies going public. By positioning itself as an Indian success story, Flipkart may not only appeal to domestic investors but also benefit from regulatory goodwill.

The proximity to regulators, domestic capital markets, and Indian retail investors is expected to play a crucial role in supporting its high valuation target.

E-Commerce Giants Battle for Market Share

Flipkart is currently engaged in a fierce battle with other major players in the Indian e-commerce space, including Amazon, Reliance’s JioMart, and the Tata Group. According to a Ficci-Deloitte report, India’s e-commerce market is projected to grow to $325 billion by 2030, fuelled by a 21 per cent compound annual growth rate (CAGR).

A successful IPO could give Flipkart the firepower to further consolidate its market position amidst this high-growth landscape.

Reverse Flipping Gains Momentum Among Indian Startups

Flipkart is not alone in its redomiciling efforts. A growing number of Indian-origin startups that had previously shifted their base abroad are now returning to Indian soil in a trend dubbed “reverse flipping”. This trend is expected to gather further momentum as domestic capital markets mature and regulatory conditions improve.

More than 20 startups are preparing for IPOs in 2025, including notable names like Bluestone, Zepto, Boat, and others. 

Conclusion

Flipkart’s redomiciling marks a significant milestone in its IPO journey and reflects broader trends in India’s startup and tech ecosystem. If the listing goes ahead as planned in 2025, it could redefine benchmarks for consumer tech IPOs in the country and potentially set the tone for other high-growth Indian companies to follow suit.

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.

Shein-Reliance Rethinks Partnership Amid US-China Trade Friction

As per the Economic Times report, rising trade tensions between China and the United States are rippling through global supply chains, and one of the latest partnerships to feel the heat is that between Shein and Reliance Retail. The fast fashion giant is renegotiating its sourcing partnership with Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd (RRVL), a development that reflects the changing geopolitical dynamics shaping business decisions.

Reliance Retail is a part of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL). It is the retail business wing of Reliance Industries. 

The Trump-era tariff hike of 145% on Chinese goods, still in effect, has pushed Chinese authorities to reinforce domestic manufacturing and restrict outward production migration. This policy shift directly challenges Shein’s original plans to position India as a major manufacturing base.

Shein’s India Vision Faces Headwinds

Shein re-entered the Indian market in 2024 after being banned in 2020 amidst India’s crackdown on Chinese-origin apps. This return came through a strategic partnership with Reliance Retail, allowing Shein to launch a standalone app hosted on Indian servers, with a strong focus on local data storage and compliance.

Beyond retail presence, the agreement envisioned transforming India into a global export hub for Shein’s products. A core part of this ambition was the mobilisation of over 25,000 Indian MSMEs in the apparel manufacturing space, with Shein pledging access to technology and resources. However, the recent turn of events suggests that these plans may be scaled down significantly.

Read More: Shein Returns to India: Now Available on Reliance’s New App. 

Beijing’s Manufacturing Retention Strategy

In response to US tariffs, China has implemented countermeasures, including a 125% tariff on US imports, while also tightening its control over domestic industries. These developments reflect Beijing’s broader aim to protect its status as the world’s manufacturing powerhouse.

While the US has extended a 90-day suspension on some tariffs, such as the 26% duty on Indian goods, the relief has not been applied to Chinese products. In this tense environment, Beijing remains cautious about losing production influence to other countries, particularly India, which was emerging as a strong contender in Shein’s diversification strategy.

Shein’s Profitability Challenges and IPO Pressure

Shein’s supply chain issues come at a time when the company is navigating a turbulent business landscape. Its net profit dropped by nearly 40 per cent to $1 billion in 2024, despite revenue growing 19 per cent to $38 billion. The valuation, once a staggering $100 billion in 2022, fell to $66 billion in 2023. Now, reports suggest Shein might settle for a valuation as low as $30 billion ahead of its much-anticipated IPO.

After shelving its New York listing due to political opposition, Shein has secured approval from the London Stock Exchange. This move marks a crucial step forward, though it also raises questions about how the company will position itself in a more geopolitically cautious investment climate.

India’s Fast Fashion Potential Remains Strong

Despite current uncertainties, India continues to present a significant opportunity for fast fashion brands. According to Redseer Strategy Consultants, the Indian fast fashion market is projected to expand fivefold—from $10 billion in FY24 to $50 billion by FY31. For Shein, which now operates from Singapore but still leans heavily on Chinese production, India was expected to be a key strategic node in its global footprint.

Other Chinese brands like Oppo, Vivo, and Realme, although firmly embedded in the Indian market, have retained their primary production bases in China. Shein’s initial intent to break that mould by shifting production to India now appears less feasible in light of mounting diplomatic pressures and trade complexities.

Conclusion

The Shein-Reliance partnership, once seen as a template for global collaboration in a post-China manufacturing world, is now being re-evaluated. As diplomatic frictions between superpowers reshape the trade landscape, companies like Shein are being forced to recalibrate their expansion blueprints, underscoring the tightrope multinationals must walk in a highly politicised economic environment.

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.