Business

Small Business Confidence Dips Slightly in Q1 FY26 Amid Global Trade Concerns

Published

8 months ago

June 12, 2025

India’s small business sentiment experienced a slight decline in the April–June 2025 quarter. The ASSOCHAM–Dun & Bradstreet Small Business Confidence Index (SBCI) dipped by 1.8% from the previous quarter, reaching a level of 105.4. However, it’s important to note that this figure remains 6% higher compared to the same period last year and is significantly above its long-term average, indicating a phase of cautious optimism among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India.

The quarterly index assesses the business outlook of SMEs across various key factors such as demand, profitability, investment, and hiring. It suggests that small businesses are adjusting their strategies in response to global trade uncertainties, rising costs, and stricter credit conditions.

Expectations for export orders fell sharply by 17 points, largely due to advanced shipments before the April 2 U.S. tariff increase and a broader slowdown in global trade. Similarly, sentiment regarding profitability weakened, with net profit expectations dropping by 6 points and optimism around selling prices decreasing by 13 points, highlighting the margin pressures stemming from fluctuating input costs and limited pricing power.

While plans for fixed capital investments have been tempered in light of global uncertainties, hiring sentiment remains robust, suggesting confidence in domestic consumption trends. Nonetheless, access to credit has shifted from being viewed as “easy” to “normal,” indicating stricter lending standards despite recent rate cuts by the RBI.

Despite these challenges, the overall confidence index indicates sustained strength within India’s SME sector. Experts emphasize the need for policy stability, improved financing frameworks, and collaborative efforts among stakeholders to assist small businesses in navigating this changing environment.

As external conditions remain unstable, the future for small businesses will rely on adaptability, cost efficiency, and strategic investments that align with evolving market demands. A significant ongoing challenge for small businesses is the limited availability of credit, as banks are often reluctant to lend due to insufficient collateral or lacking credit histories. Furthermore, while non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and informal lenders may provide loans, they tend to come with substantially higher interest rates.

Business

Gold Prices Edge Up in India on January 19, 2026

Published

5 days ago

January 19, 2026

Namma Kudla

Gold prices in India recorded a slight increase on January 19, 2026, supported by global market trends, local demand, and movements in the rupee-dollar exchange rate.

As per market estimates, 24-carat gold, which is considered pure gold, is priced at ₹14,569 per gram, or ₹1,45,690 per 10 grams. 22-carat gold, commonly used for jewellery, is trading at around ₹13,355 per gram, or ₹1,33,550 per 10 grams.

The prices have risen marginally compared to the previous day. The increase is mainly linked to a weaker Indian rupee against the US dollar, which makes imported gold more expensive.

Gold rates vary slightly across cities such as Mangalore and other parts of the country. These differences depend on local taxes, transportation costs, jeweller margins, and regional demand.

Demand for gold remains strong due to the wedding season and festive buying, which continues to support higher prices. Investors also turn to gold during uncertain economic conditions, as it is seen as a safe-haven asset.

Experts say that global geopolitical developments, inflation concerns, and central bank policies are also influencing international gold prices, which in turn affect domestic rates.

Market participants expect gold prices to remain firm in the near term if the rupee stays weak and demand continues at current levels.

Business

Gold Prices Decline Slightly on January 16

Published

1 week ago

January 16, 2026

Namma Kudla

Gold prices witnessed a mild decline in the domestic bullion market on January 16, 2026. The price of 24-carat gold was recorded at ₹143,080 per 10 grams. This marked a fall of ₹360 compared to its previous closing price, indicating a soft trend in the precious metal market.

Similarly, the price of 22-carat gold also moved lower. It was trading at ₹131,157 per 10 grams during the day. The decline in gold prices reflects cautious sentiment among investors amid changing global economic signals.

Market experts said gold prices were affected by fluctuations in international markets and movements in the US dollar. Profit booking by investors at higher levels also contributed to the marginal drop in prices.

Despite the decline, demand for gold remains steady in the domestic market. Jewellers reported moderate buying interest, especially for 22-carat gold used in jewellery. Industry participants are now closely watching global inflation data, interest rate trends, and geopolitical developments.

Gold prices are expected to remain volatile in the coming days. Investors are advised to keep an eye on global cues and currency movements before making fresh investments.

Business

Silver Crashes ₹12,500 to ₹2.43 Lakh per kg; Gold Declines ₹900

Published

2 weeks ago

January 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

Silver prices fell sharply from record levels in the national capital on Thursday due to global profit-booking. The price of silver dropped by ₹12,500 to ₹2,43,500 per kilogram.

According to the All India Sarafa Association, the white metal had touched a record high of ₹2,56,000 per kilogram in the previous trading session on Wednesday. Silver had surged by ₹5,000 in that session amid strong global cues.

Gold prices also weakened on Thursday. The yellow metal declined by ₹900 per 10 grams in the local market. Traders attributed the fall to selling pressure after recent gains.

Market experts said that a rise in global prices earlier had encouraged investors to book profits. This selling pressure impacted both silver and gold prices in the domestic market.

They added that movements in international bullion prices and a stronger dollar also influenced the decline. Investors are now closely watching global economic signals for further direction in precious metal prices.