Latest Stock Market News

Defense stocks fell up to 9% after the government’s Rs 4.92 lakh crore defense budget for FY26 disappointed investors. HAL, BEL, BHEL, and Bharat Dynamics declined as capital expenditure growth remained modest. Analysts expected higher allocations. The market also turned negative post-budget.

Maruti Suzuki shares surged nearly 7% after reporting its highest-ever monthly sales of 2,12,251 units in January 2025, up from 1,99,364 units a year ago. The record-breaking figures included 1,77,688 domestic sales, 7,463 units sold to other OEMs, and 27,100 exports, reflecting strong demand and solidifying Maruti’s market leadership in the auto sector.

Union Budget 2025 brings opportunities for several sectors. Auto stocks may benefit from increased income tax slabs. Consumer durables, healthcare, and textile stocks could see a boost if consumption picks up. Insurance stocks gained from the increase in FDI to 100%. Agriculture, fishery, green energy, and water management sectors also stand to gain from targeted government initiatives.

The budget is hailed as the best in 20 years, aimed at boosting consumption through substantial tax benefits. The move is expected to enhance the economy by increasing rural income, supporting agriculture, and encouraging private sector capex, while fiscal deficit reduction allows for possible aggressive rate cuts by RBI.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced raising the FDI limit in the insurance sector from 74% to 100%, boosting shares of major insurers like HDFC Life and SBI Life. The move aims to attract more foreign investments, support the rupee, and enhance insurance penetration in India. Experts believe it will foster innovation and improve risk management in the sector.

The government unveiled a major overhaul of its financial assistance policy, launching a Rs 25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund. It will contribute 49% to the fund, aiming to boost India’s shipbuilding sector’s competitiveness and capacity. This initiative is set to strengthen maritime infrastructure, drive growth, and position India as a key player in global shipbuilding.

The Finance Minister announced an increase in the NIL tax slab to Rs 12 lakh, aiming to boost disposable incomes and revive consumption, which has remained subdued for two quarters. The first half of the year saw challenges like reduced government spending, credit tightening, urban consumption slowdown, extended monsoon, and inflation, all impacting corporate earnings and economic growth.

WeWork India filed its DRHP for an IPO to raise funds, offering 25% of its stake. The firm posted strong financials, with FY2024 revenue growth of 26%. It operates 100,000 desks in eight cities, with a 75% occupancy rate. WeWork India’s portfolio includes global brands like Amazon and JP Morgan.

Finance Minister Sitharaman announced the inclusion of six life-saving drugs in the concessional 5% duty slab to enhance access to critical medicines. Additionally, certain bulk drugs now qualify for a full exemption or concessional duty. This move benefits cancer patients by reducing treatment costs, easing their financial burden, and making essential medications more affordable and accessible.

Textile stocks surged up to 9% during the special Budget session on Saturday after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a five-year mission to boost cotton productivity. Ambika Cotton Mills soared 9% to Rs 1,630, while KPR Mills gained nearly 4%. Vardhman Textiles and Arvind also rallied, rising 2% and 4%, respectively, following the announcement.