Latest Stock Market News

Girija Shankar Ray from Yes Securities outlines the fluctuating cement prices over recent months, highlighting regional variations and factors impacting demand. Eastern and central regions see significant price hikes, while Southern remains stable. Energy costs, including petcoke, are rising, affecting cement margins. Government capex slowdown and upcoming festivals also impact demand, with better forecasts for FY26.

Nilesh Shah sees strong long-term growth in India despite short-term corrections. Key opportunities lie in midcaps, digital platforms, premium consumption, infrastructure, and AI-driven IT firms, while market corrections create investment opportunities.

Trent shares dropped 2.6% after Kotak Institutional Equities downgraded its target price due to concerns over its store expansion strategy. The brokerage highlighted the risks of cannibalized sales from densely located stores and lowered revenue growth projections. Despite a 23.73% annual gain, Trent s stock has fallen 31.48% in the last six months, prompting cautious analyst sentiment.

Shares of JSW Steel surged 2.1% to a four-month high after the company reported a 12% YoY rise in consolidated crude steel production for February 2025. Domestic operations saw a 13% increase. JSW Steel s Q3 FY25 net profit dropped over 70% due to higher expenses, while the stock gained nearly 24% in the past year.

Markets are showing impressive performance with FMCG and Metal sectors leading the way. Aditya Arora of Adlytick highlights Hindustan Unilever and Emami as promising stocks to watch, given their recent correction and potential for upward movement.

Richard Harris highlights the uncertainty in markets due to unpredictable US policies and their impact on inflation and economic stability. He notes the damage to America s political credibility and the challenge for emerging markets with the fluctuating dollar. Emerging markets like India and China have significantly developed over the past decade.

Fitch affirms Adani Energy Solutions Ltd. s (AESL) BBB- credit rating but maintains a negative outlook due to ongoing U.S. investigations into governance practices. While liquidity and funding risks have moderated, the investigation’s outcome may affect AESL’s credit profile and funding access. AESL’s aggressive expansion plans, including a smart metering project, remain key drivers of its growth.

Oriental Rail Infrastructure shares surged 5% to hit the upper circuit after securing its first major order for supplying seats for the Vande Bharat Express. The Rs 42.89 crore order from Rail Coach Factory is a significant milestone for the company. Despite a decline in profit, revenue grew 4.3% YoY in Q3 FY25.

Tata Steel has been given a ‘Buy’ rating, with Jefferies increasing its target price to Rs 180 from Rs 165. Meanwhile, JSW Steel has received a ‘Hold’ rating, with its target price revised upward to Rs 920 from Rs 850. Hindalco continues to be a favored pick with a ‘Buy’ rating and a target price of Rs 800.

BEL shares rose ahead of the record date to determine shareholder eligibility for an interim dividend of Rs 1.5 per share.