Indian companies are now strategically planning for both IPOs and M&As. This dual-track approach helps maximize value and retain leadership. Regulatory changes and market volatility drive this trend. Fintech and quick commerce sectors see significant activity. Companies prepare for IPOs to attract better M&A deals. This shift marks a maturing of India s private capital ecosystem.

Despite geopolitical tensions, global equity markets, including India s Nifty, have shown resilience. While domestic investor participation provides support, a significant breakout requires stronger earnings growth, currently facing tepid levels. India s robust macros and potential trade deal outcomes could drive future earnings recovery, particularly in the banking sector, though elevated valuations suggest patience is warranted.

Madhuri Madhusudan Kela seems to have sold her shares in Waaree Energies. Shareholding data indicates her exit from the renewable energy company. This happened after a strong rally in Waaree Energies stock. The stock has shown significant gains recently. Kela held a 1.16% stake since its listing in October 2024. Her name is absent from the latest public shareholder list.

Gold prices in India have surged to near-record levels, driven by a confluence of global factors. These include geopolitical tensions, central bank buying, and a depreciating rupee. Despite high prices, demand remains strong, particularly in rural areas, fueled by its safe-haven appeal and upcoming festivals and weddings, ensuring gold remains a favored asset.

Raghav Iyengar of 360 ONE Asset suggests tactical adjustments for investors. He recommends reducing midcap exposure and increasing investment in high-quality largecaps. HNIs and UHNIs are showing interest in REITs and InvITs for stable income. Family offices are exploring private credit and structured debt. Investors are diversifying into global markets and real assets.

Among the laggards, we are putting the spotlight on 6 SME IPOs that have nosedived over 60% so far this calendar year.

There s "no tension" with Powell, Trump said after the Thursday tour - which featured the two men publicly trading barbs over the cost of a project that the president s allies have used to blast the Fed chair s leadership.

Governor Malhotra praised US Fed Chair Jerome Powell s efforts to uphold the central bank s independence amidst political pressure. Malhotra highlighted Powell s commitment to this principle, noting the widespread support he received from global finance leaders at a recent international gathering. This endorsement underscores the importance of central bank autonomy in maintaining economic stability.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq reached record highs, fueled by optimism for a U.S.-EU trade deal and strong earnings from companies like Deckers Outdoor. Intel s disappointing forecast led to a stock decline, while investors await the Federal Reserve s decision on interest rates amid trade concerns.

U.S. stock market faces a potentially volatile week with a looming tariff deadline, a Federal Reserve meeting, and key earnings reports from major companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. Despite recent record highs and low volatility, concerns remain about high valuations and the possible return of meme stock trading. Investors are also awaiting the U.S.