Latest Stock Market News

Oil prices dropped by 2% on Friday but remained steady for the week as supply concerns in Russia and uncertainty about a Ukraine peace deal persisted. The Ukrainian drone attack impacting Caspian Pipeline Consortium flows supported prices. Rising U.S. crude inventories and an increase in oil and gas rigs also influenced the market.

The U.S. dollar rose against various currencies, consolidating before the weekend. Investors are focused on next week s inflation data and tariff news. In late trading, the dollar was flat against the yen. U.S. business activity dropped to a 17-month low, affecting the dollar. The euro fell, impacted by weak business activity in France and Germany.

Asian markets rose Friday, with Hong Kong leading the way thanks to a surge in tech stocks led by ecommerce titan Alibaba. But Asia fared, with Hong Kong piling on more four percent to hit a three-year high.

Warren Buffett is hoarding cash, and investors want to know why. Berkshire Hathaway’s cash reserves have surged past record levels, signaling a cautious yet strategic move. Buffett’s decision to reduce Apple holdings and hold over $300 billion in cash suggests he is waiting for better investment opportunities. This approach highlights his belief that current stock valuations are too high. With a history of making bold moves in downturns, Buffett’s cash strategy hints at potential big acquisitions. Is this a sign of market trouble or a masterstroke in long-term investing?

The latest Nifty Next 50 reshuffle added Bajaj Housing Finance, BPCL, Hyundai Motor India, Indian Hotels, Swiggy, CG Power, and Britannia, replacing Adani Total Gas, BHEL, IRCTC, Jio Financial, NHPC, Union Bank, and Zomato.

The Nifty Smallcap 100 index experienced a semi-annual reshuffle, adding 22 new stocks including Brainbees Solutions and Delhivery, while removing Zee Entertainment and Central Bank of India. These changes, effective from March 28, 2025, aim to better reflect market dynamics.

Tata Capital plans to raise funds via a share sale to existing investors in an upcoming board meeting. The firm is also preparing for an IPO worth over Rs 15,000 crore to meet RBI regulations and considering raising Rs 15,000 crore through green bonds and non-convertible debentures.

US stocks: Wall Street s main indexes opened mixed on Friday, a day after Walmart s dour forecast hit sentiment, while UnitedHealth slid after a report that the U.S. Justice Department is investigating the healthcare conglomerate.

The Sensex dropped 425 points on Friday, closing at 75,311. Nine BSE 500 stocks hit 52-week lows, signaling possible buying opportunities or underlying concerns. Investors analyze these lows to assess market sentiment and potential stock trends.

Food delivery company Zomato and Jio Financial Services have made an entry into the Nifty50 index as part of the semi-annual reshuffle while Bharat Petroleum Corporation and Britannia Industries have been booted out.