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European shares edged higher to touch a two-week high on Thursday, as investors assessed corporate earnings and economic data.

Japan s Nikkei share average fell on Thursday, pulling back from a record high scaled in the previous session on concerns over a potential shift in Bank of Japan policy and a stronger yen.

India s long-duration bond rally is losing steam as demand from key institutional investors wanes, compounded by fiscal concerns stemming from slowing tax revenues and GDP growth. The Reserve Bank of India s shift to a neutral stance and limited prospects for further rate cuts have further dampened sentiment.

Prime Focus shares hit their 10% upper circuit on Thursday after the company returned to profit, reporting ₹110.47 crore net profit in Q1FY26 versus a ₹158.07 crore loss a year ago. Revenue rose 22.8% YoY to ₹976.82 crore, and it also swung to profit from a ₹251.62 crore loss in the previous quarter.

JSW Cement debuted on the bourses at a 4% premium but quickly slid over 5% from its opening price, despite strong IPO demand and higher-than-expected grey market premiums. Analysts cite rich valuations and recent losses as near-term headwinds, though long-term prospects remain supported by capacity expansion and infrastructure growth.

For risk-averse investors seeking short-term options, bond SIPs through the RBI Retail Direct platform offer near-guaranteed returns backed by the Indian government. These investments, with maturities ranging from three months to a year and a minimum investment of Rs 25,000, are ideal for parking funds intended for short-term needs, providing a safe alternative to traditional options.

Gold October futures on MCX traded firm above Rs 1 lakh per 10 grams on Thursday, supported by US tariff uncertainty. Analysts expect prices to stay volatile amid Fed rate cut hopes, key US data, and geopolitical developments this week.

Manish Bhandari highlights PMS sector growth driven by independent managers, with 70% of institutional capital managed outside traditional institutions. He sees economic benefits in closer India–China–Russia ties, favours infrastructure, cement, healthcare, and selective auto ancillary plays, stressing valuation discipline and diverse strategies.

Brigade Enterprises reported a 79% rise in Q1 FY26 net profit to Rs 149.88 crore, driven by strong residential sales and a robust project pipeline. Total income grew to Rs 1,332.86 crore, with real estate revenue up 22% and EBITDA rising 10%. Leasing and hospitality segments also posted healthy growth, while ICRA upgraded the company’s credit rating to AA (Stable).