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Marico Ltd posted a 4% YoY rise in Q3 net profit to ₹399 crore, with revenue up 15% to ₹2,794 crore. EBITDA grew 4%, but margins declined due to rising input costs. India business saw 6% volume growth.

The company set February 6, 2025, as the record date for the dividend, payable by February 20, 2025. The company announced the dividend alongside its Q3 earnings, reporting a 15% YoY rise in net profit to Rs 2,903 crore for the quarter ended December 31, 2024. It also recorded an exceptional item of Rs 316 crore.

This Budget balances growth-driven reforms and pro-consumption measures while managing fiscal consolidation.

The Indian rupee hit an all-time low on Friday and was the worst performer among major Asian currencies in January, hurt by portfolio outflows, expectations of a rate cut and the uncertainty about U.S. trade tariffs.

Ola Electric shares: Ola Electric Mobility shares surged 14.4% to Rs 76.5 after its market share rose to 30% in January, up from 19% in December. The company launched the Gen 3 model, expected to bring 20% margin savings. However, HSBC downgraded the stock to "Hold" citing volume disappointments and increased competition, lowering the target price to Rs 70.

Sensex and Nifty 50 rose ahead of the Union Budget, supported by broad-based buying. Key movers included Kalyan Jewellers, Railway stocks, Navin Fluorine, FMCG, Whirlpool, and Jindal Steel.

Sensex: Despite January losses, Sensex surged 2,100 points in four days on Budget optimism. Investors anticipate tax cuts and capex boosts, while ECB rate cuts and global cues support sentiment. Analysts urge clear execution for capex allocations to sustain growth.

India’s FY25 GDP is projected at 6.3%-6.8%, driven by consumption, investment, and trade. Budget priorities include tax rationalization, import duty adjustments, and skill development to boost manufacturing and integrate India into global value chains, enhancing long-term economic growth.

The Nifty Bank index closed 0.56 per cent up at 49587.2.

European shares were at a record high on Friday, led by technology and healthcare stocks, even as caution prevailed ahead of the U.S. tariff deadline set by President Donald Trump.