SEBI Plans to Simplify Mutual Fund Norms and Classification

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is reviewing its mutual fund regulations, including the scheme categorisation framework and restrictions on asset management company (AMC) activities. As per reports, this is to simplify compliance and reduce regulatory burden across the mutual fund industry.

Focus on Clause 24(b)

One of the major areas under review is Clause 24(b) of SEBI’s mutual fund regulations. This clause restricts AMCs from engaging in any business other than portfolio management services, offshore fund management, and advisory services, unless explicitly allowed by SEBI. It is currently the only clause in the mutual fund regulation that carries a restriction on business activities. Reports suggest that SEBI is considering modifications to this clause to provide more operational flexibility to fund houses.

Changes to Scheme Categorisation

SEBI is also working on revising the existing mutual fund categorisation framework. At present, SEBI has defined 36 categories of mutual fund schemes. However, there have been concerns over the proliferation of schemes with similar themes and overlapping investment strategies. The aim of the revision is to streamline categories and simplify scheme nomenclature for better investor clarity.

Suggestions have been sought from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) to make mutual fund scheme names more accessible and understandable, especially for investors outside metro cities.

Broader Regulatory Streamlining

According to reports, SEBI is focusing on reducing compliance requirements and reviewing older regulations. This includes examining the institutional mechanism framework, which mandates surveillance systems within AMCs to monitor potential market abuse. Discussions are ongoing to identify areas where regulatory processes can be simplified.

A shift from results area (KRA)-driven approach to a more collaborative regulatory framework is also being explored, with increased dialogue between SEBI and industry participants.

Conclusion

The proposed revisions is SEBI’s effort to re-evaluate and streamline mutual fund regulations. The changes under consideration include easing restrictions on AMC activities, simplifying scheme categorisation, and reducing procedural complexity within the regulatory system.

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 in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Government Signs MoU with Swiggy to List Gig Jobs on NCS Portal

The Ministry of Labour & Employment has signed an MoU with Swiggy to list gig and logistics jobs on the National Career Service (NCS) portal. The aim is to create over 12 lakh job opportunities in the next 2-3 years.

As of 9:21 am on April 16, 2025, Swiggy share price was trading at ₹338.70, up 1.41%, with a 2.33% gain over the past 5 days but down 25.72% over the last six months.

What the MoU Covers

Swiggy will upload job openings for delivery, logistics, and support roles on the NCS portal. These listings will be updated through an API-based system, allowing real-time job postings and applications.

Features of the Integration

  • Verified job postings by Swiggy
  • Real-time updates through API
  • Application tracking via the portal
  • Focus on flexible roles across urban and semi-urban locations

Focus Areas

The MoU also includes a push for inclusive hiring. There will be a focus on creating access for women, youth, and others looking for non-traditional employment. Job seekers will also be informed about existing government welfare schemes during onboarding.

This is one of several agreements the Ministry is signing with private platforms to make more jobs available through government-run portals. It’s part of a larger plan to connect job seekers with private employers more efficiently.

Who It Reaches

As of January 31, 2025, the NCS platform had more than 1.25 crore active job seekers and around 40 lakh registered employers. This partnership will add gig-based jobs to the mix, targeting people looking for flexible or location-specific work.

Conclusion

The partnership adds gig jobs to the NCS portal, giving job seekers easier access to delivery and logistics roles. The rollout will take place over the next few years, with an estimated 12 lakh opportunities expected.

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.

IndusInd Bank Share Price in Focus on Receiving External Audit Report

IndusInd Bank has received an external audit report identifying discrepancies in its derivative transactions. The report, submitted on April 15, 2025, estimated a negative impact of ₹1,979 crore as of June 30, 2024. This translates to 3.1% of the bank’s net worth at that point, which stood at ₹63,815 crore.

As of 9:25 am on April 16, 2025, IndusInd Bank share price is trading at ₹741.15, up 0.71%, but down 44.95% over the past six months and 50.29% over the past year.

Revised Estimates and Disclosure

The bank stated that, based on the findings, the post-tax impact on its net worth as of December 2024 is estimated at 2.27%. The earlier internal review had pegged this figure at approximately 2.35%. As of December 31, the bank’s net worth was ₹65,102 crore. The impact will be reflected in the financial statements for FY25.

Timeline and Internal Review

Discrepancies were first disclosed by IndusInd Bank on March 10, 2025, when it reported irregularities worth around ₹1,530 crore in its derivative portfolio. The internal audit identified the issue, and an external agency was appointed to independently review the findings. The bank also appointed a forensic auditor, Grant Thornton, to investigate further.

Regulatory and Management Updates

On March 7, the Reserve Bank of India approved only a one-year extension for the bank’s CEO. A few days later, the discrepancies were made public. The CFO had resigned in January 2025. The RBI later clarified that the matter was being monitored and did not indicate broader risk to the banking system.

According to news reports, in the next few months, the company may lose at least three top executives, potentially including CEO Sumant Kathpalia and Deputy CEO Arun Khurana, the latter of whom was in charge of global markets and the derivatives portfolio.

As of March 31, 2025, net advances stood at ₹3,43,298 crore, compared to ₹3,66,889 crore in the previous quarter. Deposits were ₹3,84,793 crore, down from ₹4,09,554 crore. 

Conclusion

The bank has stated it will update its financials accordingly and take steps to strengthen internal controls around derivative accounting.

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.

CCI Clears Merger of Quality Care India with Aster DM Healthcare

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the merger of Quality Care India Ltd. (QCIL) into Aster DM Healthcare Ltd. The transaction is structured as a scheme of amalgamation. Once the merger is completed, the combined entity will be renamed Aster DM Quality Care Ltd.

As of 9:31 am on April 16, 2025, Aster DM Healthcare share price was trading at ₹498.85, up 1.92% for the day, with a 16.57% gain over the past six months and a 4.06% decline over the past year.. Its market capitalisation stood at ₹24,551.07 crore.

Shareholding and Stake Changes

Ahead of the merger, Aster DM Healthcare will acquire a 5% stake in Quality Care India from existing investors – BCP Asia II TopCo IV Pte. Ltd. and Centella Mauritius Holdings Ltd. This acquisition will be made through Aster’s primary share issuance. Following the merger, shareholders of Quality Care India, including BCP Asia, Centella, and certain minority investors, will receive equity in the combined entity. Centella will hold less than 10% stake and will not have control rights.

Ownership and Background of Entities

Quality Care India is an unlisted company backed by Blackstone and TPG. BCP Asia is affiliated with Blackstone, while Centella is owned by TPG Group. QCIL operates multiple healthcare facilities across India under brand names such as CARE Hospitals, KIMS Health, and Evercare.

Aster DM Healthcare is part of the Aster Group and operates in India with 19 hospitals, 13 clinics, 215 pharmacies, 232 labs, and patient experience centres across six states. QCIL manages a network of 26 healthcare centres with more than 5,150 beds in 14 cities. Its medical team comprises over 2,500 doctors and offers more than 30 specialities.

Conclusion

The approval from CCI clears the path for the formal merger process. Post-merger, the newly named Aster DM Quality Care Ltd. will bring together the operations of both companies under one entity.

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.

⁠India’s Wealthiest Underreport Income and Pay Less Tax Than Expected, Data Reveals

A new study has shed light on how India’s wealthiest individuals significantly underreport their income and, in turn, pay far less in taxes than one might expect based on their vast fortunes.

The research, conducted by Ram Singh, director of the Delhi School of Economics and a member of the Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee, finds that the richer an individual is, the smaller the share of their income they report relative to their wealth—a trend that has stark implications for the country’s taxation system and economic inequality.

A Wealth-Tax Mismatch

According to Singh’s analysis of income-tax filings, national accounts, and public disclosures (including election affidavits and the Forbes Rich List), India’s ultra-rich appear to pay disproportionately little in taxes.

“For the wealthiest 0.1% of individuals, the income-tax liability is just around 0.7% of their wealth,” Singh notes. For those on the Forbes List, this figure drops to just 0.4%.

Meanwhile, India’s top 5% of earners pay tax on less than one-fifth of their capital income. In sharp contrast, lower-wealth households report income levels that are often multiple times their total wealth—a signal that the super-rich might be vastly underreporting returns from assets like real estate, agricultural land, and private business income.

Income Falls as Wealth Rises

The study, titled “Do the Wealthy Underreport Their Income?”, highlights a puzzling pattern: as wealth increases, reported income as a proportion of that wealth actually decreases. The paper estimates that every 1% increase in wealth corresponds to a more than 0.6% decrease in the reported income-to-wealth ratio.

“In the bottom 10% of wealth groups, reported income is nearly double their wealth. But in the top 1%, income reported is just 3-4% of wealth. And for the richest 0.1%, it falls below 2%,” Singh explains.

This pattern, he suggests, is not a coincidence—it likely reflects widespread tax avoidance.

Tax Evasion with a Silver Lining?

While the underreporting of income reduces government revenue and highlights inequality, Singh’s paper leaves room for a nuanced perspective. He notes that the money saved through tax avoidance may be reinvested, potentially fueling growth and job creation.

Still, the findings add weight to calls for a more equitable tax regime—especially as income and wealth inequality in India deepens. A World Inequality Lab study last year estimated that the top 1% hold over 40% of India’s wealth, though Singh’s analysis suggests this may still be an underestimate.

Unlike some previous reports, Singh stops short of recommending a wealth tax, instead leaving policy implications open for broader debate.

 

Read more on: Has Your Bank Cut Lending and Deposit Rates? Check Here!

 

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.

Nearly 30% of Indian Exports to US to Attract Tariffs Above 15%

A recent analysis reveals that nearly 30% of Indian exports to the US—valued at around $19 billion—will now face tariffs of 15% or higher, raising fresh concerns for exporters and policymakers alike.

This shift follows the US government’s move to introduce a flat 10% import duty across all countries, replacing earlier reciprocal tariff structures. While previously only about 10% of Indian goods entering the US attracted tariffs over 10%, that share has now tripled.

Key Sectors Hit Hardest

The steepest hikes have landed on Indian steel and aluminium exports, both now subject to a 25% duty. Auto components are also facing similar 25% tariffs. Even traditionally exempt categories such as coffee, tea, and spices will now attract 10% duties, beginning this year. Seafood items like fish and shrimp are also seeing a 10% increase in tariff rates compared to 2024 levels.

The blow is sharper for some niche products. Tobacco items worth $30 million will now face tariffs nearing 100%, while exports of cane sugar and groundnuts are subject to duties above 50%.

Read More New Industrial Manufacturing Hub Planned Near Hisar Airport. 

Tariff Impact Beyond Borders

The broader effect is a sharp rise in the weighted average US tariff on Indian goods—from 2.2% in 2023 to 12.2% this year—bringing it in line with India’s average tariff on American imports.

Interestingly, some of the burden may be felt by US consumers. India holds a dominant share in US imports of items like cucumbers, tractors, bed sheets, and capsicum. With these now subject to higher tariffs, short-term price pressures could ripple through American markets.

As trade tensions flare once again, exporters and officials will be watching closely for any signs of negotiations or easing of these newly imposed duties.

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.

⁠⁠New Industrial Manufacturing Hub Planned Near Hisar Airport

Haryana is set to witness a major boost in industrial development with the announcement of a new Industrial Manufacturing Cluster (IMC) near Maharaja Agrasen Airport in Hisar. Spread across nearly 3,000 acres, the project will be developed at an estimated cost of ₹4,680 crore through a partnership between the Haryana government and the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC).

The IMC is part of the larger Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor initiative and is expected to be the largest such cluster under the plan. It will be developed in two phases and aims to attract investments worth ₹32,000 crore while generating over 10,000 employment opportunities.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

The proximity to the newly operational Maharaja Agrasen Airport is expected to give the IMC a strategic logistical advantage. Out of 7,200 acres demarcated in the region, around 4,212 acres are already occupied by the airport, while the remaining 2,988 acres have been earmarked for the IMC.

The project will include modern infrastructure such as internal roads, a water treatment facility, and a solid waste management plant. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NICDC and the Haryana government is expected to be signed soon to formalise the partnership.

A Step Toward ‘Viksit Haryana’

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who chaired the planning meeting, emphasised that the IMC will play a crucial role in realising the vision of a ‘Viksit Haryana’ as part of the broader ‘Viksit Bharat’ mission. He also reiterated the state’s commitment to establishing 10 Industrial Model Townships (IMTs) to further accelerate economic growth.

With the additional Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor project bringing a multi-modal logistics hub to Nangal Chaudhary, Haryana is positioning itself as a key industrial hub in northern India.

 

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.

India’s Farm Exports May Withstand US Tariffs as Competitors Face Steeper Duties

India’s agricultural exports to the United States may remain resilient—and even expand—despite newly announced US tariffs, as rival exporting nations face steeper trade barriers, according to leading economists.

President Donald Trump recently imposed a 26% “discounted reciprocal tariff” on Indian goods as part of a broader tariff realignment targeting multiple countries. While this move initially raised concerns over its impact on agri-exports, experts say India may benefit in relative terms.

“We should not look at the tariff increase in isolation but in comparison with our competitors,” said Ashok Gulati, a renowned agricultural economist and chair professor at ICRIER. “China, for example, faces 34%, while Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Thailand are looking at tariffs ranging from 36% to 46%. That gives India a competitive edge.”

Shrimp and Rice Exports Well-Positioned

Seafood exports—particularly shrimp—are likely to remain stable, Gulati said, due to their small share in overall US food consumption. “Despite the 26% tariff, Indian seafood may hold or even improve its market position, especially since Vietnam and Indonesia face higher duties.”

Rice exports, another key agri-product, are expected to stay competitive. While India faces a tariff between 26% and 27%, exporters from Thailand and Vietnam are likely to be hit harder, creating room for Indian exporters to gain market share.

Strategic Talks Hold the Key

The ultimate impact, Gulati noted, will depend on how India leverages bilateral trade negotiations with Washington. “The key lies in striking a smart bilateral trade agreement (BTA),” he said. “India may not lose much in agriculture. In fact, if we negotiate well, we could turn this challenge into an opportunity.”

With strategic engagement and relative tariff advantages, India’s farm sector may weather the tariff storm better than expected.

 

 

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.

Tata Steel’s Nederland Union Demands Clarity on Restructuring Strategy

Tata Steel Nederland’s transformation strategy is under pressure as a key Dutch union demands clearer details about planned job cuts and operational changes.

The company recently announced a restructuring plan that includes eliminating around 1,600 roles, mainly in management and support. This move aims to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs amid tightening EU climate rules and a shifting steel market. The cuts are expected to help achieve EUR 180 million of a EUR 500 million cost-saving goal by FY26.

Union Seeks Transparency

De Unie, which represents white-collar employees, has raised concerns over the lack of clarity in the proposed reorganisation. While Tata Steel has filed a formal Request for Advice with the Central Works Council, De Unie says many critical questions remain unanswered.

The union has called for an immediate hiring freeze (excluding essential production roles) and prioritisation of internal redeployment to fill existing vacancies more efficiently.

Also Read: EMI Planning: What Should Be Your EMI If You Earn ₹50,000 Per Month?  

Green Steel Transition and Challenges

The restructuring is closely linked to Tata Steel Nederland’s shift to greener steel production, including the replacement of traditional blast furnaces with electric arc furnace (EAF) technology. This aligns with the EU’s 2030 emissions goals but comes amid weak European steel demand and rising energy costs.

De Unie notes that government and financial support hinges on a clear, actionable roadmap. While there is political goodwill for the green transition, stakeholders, including Tata Steel, are unlikely to back the plan without concrete details.

What’s Next

Despite industry headwinds, Tata Steel Nederland is nearing full production again, reporting 6.75 million tonnes in FY25. Still, mounting cost and regulatory pressures have forced a strategic shift. The outcome of upcoming talks with unions and the Works Council will be key to both the 1,600 planned job cuts and the company’s green steel ambitions in the Netherlands.

 

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.

NHPC Declares Full Commercial Operation of Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project

NHPC Limited has declared commercial operation of Unit 4 (200 MW) of the Parbati-II Hydroelectric Project in Himachal Pradesh. The unit became operational on April 16, 2025. With this, all 4 units, each of 200 MW capacity, are now commercially operational. Units 1, 2, and 3 had already begun operations on April 1, 2025.

As of 9:37 am on April 16, 2025, NHPC share price was trading at ₹85.84, up 0.49%, but down 2.44% over the past six months and 5.88% over the past year.

Project Capacity and Location

The total installed capacity of the project is 800 MW. It is located in the Kullu district and is designed as a run-of-the-river scheme with minor pondage. The project diverts water from the Parbati River using an 83.7-metre-high concrete gravity dam near Pulga, which then flows through a 31.56-kilometre head race tunnel to the powerhouse at Siund. The tunnel is the longest of its kind in India.

Technical Specifications

The project uses a gross head of 862.5 metres. It includes four vertical Pelton turbines of 200 MW each. Two inclined pressure shafts, each measuring 1,545.5 metres, are the longest such shafts in the world, constructed with Tunnel Boring Machines. Additional water from five nallahs along the tunnel route increases the total flow.

Construction Timeline and Costs

Construction began in 2002. The foundation stone was laid in 1999. The project faced several delays due to natural challenges such as cloudbursts, floods, and geological issues. The total cost is estimated at ₹13,045 crore. Design energy stands at 3,074 million units annually.

State Allocation and Local Initiatives

Himachal Pradesh will receive 12% of the generated power free of cost, with another 1% allocated for local area development. NHPC has developed about 88 km of roads and 15 bridges in the project area. Around ₹112 crore has been spent on infrastructure and ₹27.83 crore on CSR activities, including health and education.

1,361 people were employed during construction, with 1,171 from the state. 349 people are currently engaged indirectly, and 98% are locals. Permanent jobs have been given to 20 individuals from affected families.

Conclusion

With a current installed power generation capacity of 7,833 MW, encompassing hydroelectric, solar, and wind energy, the company also has a substantial pipeline of 16 projects under construction, representing an additional 10,204 MW. The launch of the Parbati-II project is a noteworthy achievement for NHPC as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

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.