Business

Stock Market Continues Decline for Fourth Consecutive Session, Finishes Slightly Lower

Published

1 year ago

February 20, 2025

On Wednesday, the stock market continued its downward trend for the fourth consecutive session, finishing slightly lower in a day characterized by significant volatility. By the end of trading, the Sensex had decreased by 28.21 points (0.04%), closing at 75,939.18, while the Nifty slipped by 12.40 points (0.05%) to settle at 22,932.90. The Nifty 50 index managed to recover 118 points during the day, ultimately reflecting only a slight decline compared to the previous close. Meanwhile, the Sensex rallied 357 points from its lowest point but still concluded with a marginal loss of 0.04%.

The Nifty Midcap 100 index wrapped up the day with a gain of 1.56%, finishing at 50,527, whereas the Nifty Smallcap 100 index closed at 15,525, up by 2.36% from its previous session.

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Over 380 stocks on the BSE hit their 52-week lows, including Natco Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Timken India, Grindwell Norton, Carborundum Universal, Aether Industries, and several others.

Among the top gainers on the Nifty index were Bharat Electronics (3.60%), Hindalco Industries (2.43%), Eicher Motors (1.93%), Larsen & Toubro (1.73%), and Axis Bank (1.73%). Conversely, the leading losers included Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories (2.63%), Tata Consultancy Services (2.30%), Infosys (2.22%), Hindustan Unilever (1.99%), and Adani Enterprises (1.78%).

The Bank Nifty closed at 49,087.3, with an intraday peak of 49,628.25 and a low of 48,804.

On the sectoral front, indices for IT, Auto, Healthcare, Pharma, and FMCG ended in negative territory, with the Nifty IT index being the most significant underperformer, closing down 1.30%. This decline was primarily driven by Persistent Systems and Coforge as IT stocks faced selling pressure following a disappointing financial report from French consulting firm Capgemini for the fiscal year 2024.

Pharma stocks also reacted negatively after U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at potential tariffs on drug imports. In contrast, the Nifty Realty index gained 1.67%, followed closely by Nifty Media at 1.33%. Gains were also noted for the Nifty PSU Bank and Nifty Metal indices, which increased by 1.33% and 1.25%, respectively. Defence stocks enjoyed a notable rebound amid speculation regarding a boost in FDI policy in the sector.

Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) saw its shares rise nearly 11%, breaking a three-day losing streak. Similarly, shares of Swiggy climbed 7% following a recommendation from international brokerage CLSA, which identified the food delivery service, along with rival Zomato, as top long-term investment ideas.

On the other hand, shares of TVS Motor Company continued to decline, dropping over 1% to Rs 2,330 during early trading. Investors are now turning their attention to the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting minutes from January for insights into policymakers’ perspectives on the rising risks of a broader trade conflict affecting the economy.

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Business

Overseas Loans by Indian Firms See Sharp Decline

Published

24 hours ago

May 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Business : Indian companies borrowed $5.43 billion from abroad in March, according to RBI data. This was 51% lower than March last year.

Experts said the weak rupee and high global interest rates made foreign loans less attractive for companies.

In the financial year 2025-26, India Inc raised nearly $43 billion through foreign borrowings. This was down from $61 billion in the previous year.

In March 2025, borrowings had crossed $11 billion due to large deals by companies like JSW Steel and Tata Semiconductor Manufacturing.

Companies are also avoiding overseas loans because hedging costs have become expensive during currency volatility.

The RBI reportedly discussed easing foreign borrowing rules and offering hedging support, but no final decision was taken.

Market experts said the ongoing West Asia conflict has increased uncertainty, making companies cautious about raising funds from abroad.

Business

Fuel Prices Hiked by Rs.3 per Litre across India

Published

3 days ago

May 15, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Petrol and diesel prices have been increased by Rs.3 per litre across the country from today. Oil marketing companies revised the rates due to the rise in global crude oil prices.

After the hike, petrol price in Bengaluru has reached Rs.106.17 per litre, while diesel now costs Rs.94.10 per litre.

The increase comes amid fluctuations in international crude oil prices and tensions in West Asia, including the Iran conflict. The fall in the value of the Indian rupee against the US dollar has also increased import costs.

The fuel price hike is expected to affect transportation and daily essentials. Transport charges for goods may rise, leading to higher prices of vegetables, fruits, milk, and other items. Bus, auto, and taxi fares may also increase.

Earlier, fuel prices were reduced before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. In 2022, the Centre had also cut excise duty to control inflation after the Covid pandemic.

Business

Gold Prices Rise in Mangaluru; Demand for Ornaments Remains Strong

Published

2 weeks ago

May 4, 2026

Namma Kudla

Mangaluru: Gold prices in the coastal city of Mangaluru have been reported at high levels today. The rate for 24 karat gold (99.9% purity) stands at Rs.14,962 per gram. The price for 22 karat gold (91.6% purity) is Rs.13,715 per gram. Meanwhile, 18 karat gold (75% purity) is being sold at Rs.11,222 per gram.

Mangaluru is well known for its deep cultural connection with gold. The city has a long tradition of buying and wearing gold ornaments. This tradition continues strongly even today.

Local jewellers say that demand for gold remains steady despite high prices. Many people still prefer to invest in gold for safety and long-term value. Gold is also an important part of weddings and festivals in the region.

Apart from its love for seafood, Mangaluru is also famous for its gold market. The gold trade in the city has a long history and continues to grow.

Buyers are advised to check the latest rates before making a purchase. They can also use a gold rate calculator to get exact pricing based on weight and purity.

Experts say that gold prices may change depending on global market trends. Customers should stay updated and make careful decisions while buying gold.